Kerryn Boogaard Kerryn Boogaard
Beverly Goldsmith Beverly Goldsmith
Zoe Bingley-Pullin Zoe Bingley-Pullin

Why I observe Ramadan:

Expat Brooke Reid writes about her sixth year of observing the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
By Brooke Reid
Date: July 13 2013
Editor Rating:
fanar_mosque_day

I’m not Muslim, nor in spite of my respect for the religion, do I have any intention of converting to Islam. I will however be fasting for the sixth time this Ramadan.

Each year I’m asked questions about why I do it or what do I hope to gain, and more often these questions come from Muslims rather than from other Christians. Perhaps, unsurprisingly, they wonder why I choose to do something that they are expected by their religion to do.

My Ramadan experience started in my first year in Qatar, out of a sense of wanting to understand more about the place I called home and the people who live here. With the encouragement of some Doha-based friends I took my first tentative steps in to the world of fasting and I’ve never looked back.

During Ramadan I attend Al Fanaar mosque, where the Imam speaks in English during Friday prayers and where I have learned much more about the Holy Month. One year the Imam delivered what my Catholic-raised self can only think of as a “homily”, highlighting the responsibilities of those who fast during Ramadan.

Much attention is placed on the fact that Muslims are forbidden from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset. But the concept that I should be cautious about what I say to others, and indeed the way I say it, really resonates with me.

What’s not to like about a time when people make a concerted effort to pay attention not only to what they put into their mouths but also what comes out as well?

While not expecting miracles, I can only hope to become a better person by taking the time each year to recognise and reflect on all facets of my behaviour.

My own Ramadan traditions mean I will again host a number of urban family-style suhours in my home and I’ll attempt to read some of the Quran. I don’t for a moment think I’ve learned nearly as much as I could have, by participating in Ramadan but I’m happy to continue my journey this year and feel blessed to be surrounded by people who support my decision.

* * *

This blog first appeared at Just Here Qatar

Share This Tweet This Email To Friend
Recent Comments
29 Total Comments
burri60 says: 2020 05 13
Rating:

Wow what a Great Information about World Day its very nice informative post. thanks for the post.muslim discord

TrendStyle says: 2020 06 28
Rating:

nice article

View All Comments
Post a Comment
* your email address will not appear

Please enter the word you see in the image below:


Post a Comment
* your email address will not appear

Please enter the word you see in the image below:33343


Your Comment has been posted
Related Articles
clare
One woman's extraordinary and inspiring story.
Read more
bouef_bourginon
Feel like you're in France for their national day with…
Read more
Cry babies

Dry your eyes!
The newest additions are on their way from the Babies who cry real tears!

Shipping-containers-freight-wallpaper-preview

Latest Tech Used In Shipping Containers
Read how the shipping industry has revolutionised

Motherpedia cover-2

Win 1 set of a 4-book hardcover illustrated boxed set
Barbara Murray’s new 4-book Sound Stories is perfect for parents and educators and could assist with NAPLAN results

Motherpedia cover (4)

Where to celebrate Oktoberfest Australia
Get ready for this celebration!

Motherpedia cover-4

A Fortnight of Foodie Experiences at East Village
A taste of East Village. What's in it for me?

Globber my too fix up cover

We Try: Globber My TOO Fix Up
A scooter that grows with your child

Throw a winning cricket pitch

3 Steps to a Winning Backyard Cricket Pitch
Ex-Adelaide Oval legend curator Les Burdett shares his tips for getting your backyard cricket pitch test match ready this summer

A bike that follows your kids life cycle - motherpedia - cover

A Bike That Follows Your Kids Life Cycle
Check out the Bunzi 2-in-1 gradual balance bike!

Moonlight lifestyle

Moonlight Cinema to bring…
Moonlight Cinema announces brand new Western Sydney venue

Screen shot 2019-11-26 at 8.29.12 am

Your Magical Christmas Wonderland…
Adventure park is about to light up the night sky with its "Christmas Festival of Lights"

Screen shot 2019-11-21 at 11.11.36 am

The Preston Market Gets…
It's time to feel pumped up for the holiday season!

Bruno-kelzer-zqzuigxcvrq-unsplash

Bunnings team members get…
Help raise funds by buying a snag or donating at your local store.