While I’ve always heard of Ramadan, this was the first time I attempted to practice the fasting that goes along with it.  I’m not Muslim, but we’re trying to immerse ourselves in the local customs and practices.  Ramadan is a 30 day period used to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to the prophet Mohammad.  The five pillars of Islam include faith, prayer, fasting, charity, and a pilgrimage to Mecca.

During Ramadan, one is required to fast from sun up to sun down.  No food, water, sex, smoking, cursing, or fighting during those times.  Because Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar, the timing changes each year.  This year, it fell started during May.  May in Bahrain is HOT.  Temperatures topped 100 degrees some days.  Couple that with no food or water, this makes for some interesting days.

For the first few days, we were able to complete the fast with no variation.  But the heat, walking around outside, and no water was a no go.  We had to add water.  But i consider that a good first step.  Over the course of 30 days, I was able to see just how little I need.  It was also a reminder to be thankful for everything I receive.  While I had to do without for hours, there are people that experience hunger and thirst as their norm.

At the end of Ramadan there is a celebration called Eid al-Fitr.  We celebrated by going to a Muslim household and taking

part in an Eid brunch.  We also visited the Mosque and celebrated there as well.

Eid Mubarak!