The Holy Month of Ramadan

The entry-way to our apartment building

It's that time of year again. In fact, it's nearing the end of that time of year - Ramadan. Ramadan is the most holy month of the Islamic year. I very much equate it to the season of Lent in Catholicism. It lasts from new moon to new moon, which is approximately 29-30 days.

Ramadan is a month of fasting, repentance, donating to charity, and getting closer to God. Fasting typically means no food, drink, smoking, or intimacy from sunrise to sunset. It is also a time of abstaining from sinful thoughts and actions.

What does all of that mean in regards to someone who lives in that culture, but does not share in the faith? It means being respectful and supportive. For us, the school day is shortened so that families can be together during the sunset feast. Iftar is the breaking of the fast in the evening. Think Thanksgiving feast every night for one month.

As a 6th grade teacher, I have students who are fasting for the first time. I've been told that the students leave school at 2 pm and immediately go home to nap. Then, they wake up in time for Iftar. They may stay awake or go back to sleep for a little while. Then, right before the sunrise prayer, they will wake up to eat for the last time before sunset. This cycle continues for a whole month.

As a teacher and as someone who lives in the community, it is up to me to be respectful and empathetic of those who are celebrating Ramadan. I should not eat or drink in public, unless it's at a restaurant or another place where food is served. I should be a little more conservative with my clothing. Most importantly, as a teacher, I need to be aware that my students are tired, hungry, and a little crabby - which can be super hard when it's the last month of school, AND it's Ramadan!

I'm sure I could go into more detail about this 30-day holy month. But, these are the basics. As an outsider, I have so many emotions about Ramadan. I respect those who participate. I am dumbfounded at why anyone would put themselves through it. And, I am super happy that it's almost over!

Ramadan Kareem