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As some of you may know, we have entered the holy month of Ramadan. Given that my family is Muslim, I wanted to share some of the things that I have learned over the years about this holy month. 

The Fast: During this month, observing Muslims fast from sun-up until sun-down. This includes all food as well as fluids. The fast is intended to remind us of our faith, to bring us closer to God, and to build compassion for those who are less fortunate. The fast is often broken with sips of water and dates before a full meal (Iftar), which is shared with family and friends. In the morning, before starting a fast, powering up with good food loaded with protein and vitamins is essential. 

Full disclosure: I have done this fast only a few times myself and it is very difficult, especially if you observe it properly (without sips of water or chewing gum, for example). 

Zakat: Giving to the less fortunate is a tenet of the Muslim faith, but often families use Ramadan as a time to give generously to charities and to each other. In Africa, we used to cook big meals for the Iftar and our entire neighborhood would swing by with dishes so they could have a meal. Here, we  give bags of flour and (more often) rice to families in need. We also specifically give to Muslim charities this month, including our local food bank that has a campaign during Ramadan to help feed local Muslim families. 

Traditions: Every family and culture likely has their own. For us, it is more of a time to be able to acknowledge the month and we do so with the phrase “Ramadan Mubarak” when greeting family and friends. We also enjoy a good meal of lamb or goat sauce with rice at Eid Al-Fitr, the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. 

Ramadan Mubarak!

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