“I feel like my faith has gotten stronger as each day goes by in lockdown.”
Meet Naz Khan, Team Secretary for our Adults Porstmouth service who has managed to find the joy in observing Ramadan differently.
As millions of Muslims observe Ramadan this year, many are faced with a different version of celebrations than they may be used to, due to the current situation in regard to COVID-19.
Every year, Muslims enter a period of fasting and reflection to focus on the goals of Ramadan: an awareness of God and a humble thankfulness for whatever blessings he has granted. In this respect, Ramadan remains much the same, despite the changes to the world around us.
Ramadan is traditionally a social affair whereby many Muslims would go to the Mosque in the evening to pray and then break their fast with extended families and friends. The absence of this social aspect has made it difficult for some. However, Naz has been able to adjust her mindset to see the positives in the situation and observe a peaceful Ramadan.
“My husband and I are at home together for Ramadan for the first time in seven years. Normally I would be at work during the day, and he would be working during the evenings, so we wouldn’t see each other whilst breaking our fasts. This year, however, I had him home every day which was amazing. We have both been really connected to our faiths by reading the Quran more and watching more Islamic talks on TV/YouTube. I feel like my faith has gotten stronger as each day goes by in lockdown.
“As Ramadan is all about charity and giving, my sisters and I created a ‘just giving’ page to donate five wells through an Islamic charity to poorer countries. Our target was £1,500 and we are currently at £1,257! We have nearly hit our target, and I am hopeful that we will reach this by the end of Ramadan. We are donating two wells to Bangladesh, and one to Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka, so they can benefit from drinking clean water. This has kept us all busy on social media and given us a good focus to help the needy.
“I have changed my working hours and my manager, and team, have been so supportive in helping me to do this. Overall, I am having a lovely Ramadan at home and this year has been the quickest one yet. Before Ramadan, I was worried that the days would pass slowly due to working from home, but since changing my mindset, I have been able to get through it.”