The Days of Mercy
My alarm goes off at 3:15 am on the first day. I rise before the sun and stand on my two feet raising my arms above the rest of my body releasing the last bit of sleep left in my muscles. My ascension from the comfort of my bed is easier than usual. Waking up at the crack of dawn is something familiar to me but it’s never as easy as it is today. There is a warmness in the air, its familiar but coveted. I make my way out of my room into the coldness of the kitchen where I turn on the stove to heat up the barley soup that I made earlier the night before. As I sit down on a stool in the kitchen, I try to center myself and bring my mind to reality. I think about how quickly Ramadan approached us again and even though I am all too familiar with it, My stomach knots up with the thoughts of failure and displeasing God. I constantly question if I’m able to go on and try to live a life that pleases God, I think of the people before me who were steadfast in belief and practice; they give me strength. Fasting is never fun. The arrival of Ramadan is exciting because of the cultural significance it has but I believe that it’s meant to break you and mend you back together. When I ponder deeply on the purpose Ramadan I realize that although its tough, its also a chance for redemption. Muslims of all walks of life come to this month weighed down by their worries and transgressions seeking something more than themselves. This month reminds me to ask Allah for Peace, Love and Guidance because he is the source of everything. While I’m reminded that it is important to fear God and recognize that he is greater than I am; Ramadan also Reminds me that in God’s Greatness is an unimaginable source of Mercy and Love. The creation of the world (along with Unicorns and Chai lol) is an Outpouring of this divine love. Let this blessed month break you, let it open up wounds, allow it to destroy your ego but be ready for it to completely heal you of every worry and doubt as well. Rumi says, “The wound is where the light enters you”; so allow the Light to enter you and always remember that Allah is the Most Merciful and know that this month will revive your soul like rain revives the dry earth.
Ramadan Mubarak!
Shaiful A.
This week’s Dua Pick:
Shaiful Alam 