The first ten days of Ramadan 2011 are over. For me this first phase was very productive.
I ran 29 miles for my charity project (Ramadan Running for Relief) in the first ten days of Ramadan, and a handful of very generous people contributed a little over $700 for my charity of choice (The Miracle Foundation).
In keeping with my vision of Ramadan, I scaled back my food consumption and avoided the gluttony that often comes during the pre-fasting (Suhoor) and post-fasting (Iftar) meals, and what I did eat was pretty healthy.
I've been praying more too. I'm doing more of my obligatory prayers, of course, but in addition to that, my prayers are heavily infused with supplications (du'as). To bow down and ask God for help in everything is an act of faith for me; it's a recognition that plan and strive as I do, I need help to take care of my family.
None of this should lead a person to think I'm very pious. I am far from being a good role model for piety. I have a closet full of faults and shortcomings hamstringing my spirituality. This has been, despite my overflowing closet, one of the most reflective and spiritual Ramadans in over a decade.
Looking at these first ten days I find that the biggest challenge was not hunger, thirst or exhaustion. During these first ten days I constantly checked myself for being judgmental.
"Look at that guy's plate" or "She went to a concert in Ramadan?" or "Why isn't he fasting?" are just a few of the self-righteous thoughts I entertained. If there is a positive takeaway, it is that I realize I'm doing something wrong. It doesn't stop me from feeling disdain for the people I silently judge, but at least it knocks me down a few pegs on the moral superiority continuum as well.
salaam alaykum. i think your running for relief idea is wonderful and there's no better time to do this than in ramadan. im inspired.
Posted by: djelibeybi | September 28, 2011 at 12:33 AM