Ramadan: embrace and celebrate the values of kindness, patience, and love

The beginning of a month unlike any other is signalled by the brilliant shining of a sliver of the moon in the dusk sky. As the month of Ramadan commences, it envelops the entire world in a beautiful tapestry of varied cultures and traditions, all related by themes of contemplation, empathy, and togetherness.

In Ramadan, amid the bustling streets of Marrakech, the atmosphere reverberates with the rhythmic sounds of mortar and pestle. Where Muslim women skillfully create aromatic spices into delectable delicacies for Iftar. There is a fragrant mixture of cinnamon and cardamom wafting down the narrow alleyways, and it is followed by the rhythmic cries of merchants selling dates, which are the traditional choice for breaking the fast done throughout the day. 

As reported from serene homes, families in Stockholm get together for a calm Suhoor dinner. The atmosphere is filled with whispers, illuminated by lamps that create fascinating wall patterns.

This month, people focus on sharing and coming together for Iftar after the evening prayer. Families and communities gather around communal dinners, sharing hot meals and creating memories. The food is essential, but other things matter. People share stories and laughter over sweet tea, forming friendships that overcome social barriers. The capacity of communal dinners to bring people together is undeniable. This tradition is passed down through generations and is a beautiful reminder of the power of togetherness.

The meaning of Ramadan extends beyond the meal known as Iftar. Zakah, another name for almsgiving, is a bonding mechanism that brings together people from different continents. A generous young lady gives a portion of her meagre savings to an orphanage near Jakarta, as reported by a lady writing from a peaceful location in Jakarta. Her self-sacrifice might appear insignificant in the grand scheme of things, yet it carries a great deal of weight. This serves as a potent reminder that love is not limited by physical distance and that even the most minor acts of kindness can significantly impact the lives of those who participate in them.

When observing the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate the month beyond their communities. During this month, seemingly insignificant acts of kindness, such as smiling at a stranger or offering assistance to a neighbour, carry much significance for Muslims.

As the first Adhan, the call to prayer reverberates through the air before morning; let us greet the essence of Ramadan in all its glorious diversity. In our activities, we should emphasise the significance of patience, advocate for sharing as our primary mode of communication, and emphasise love as the basis of our interactions. During this shared experience, we discover the essence of human nature, a mesmerising collage in which various components come together to form a spectacular whole.

In Ramadan, we hope that the nations at war will declare a ceasefire. The world rejoices when exhausted soldiers leave the conflict and diplomats announce progress in peace negotiations. With the possibility of peace on the horizon, rebuilding lives and communities becomes a reality.