What is so wrong about living in the ‘Now’? Over the last few days, since the beginning of Mahe Mubarak Ramadhan, I’ve heard several different opinions on how the fasts are going. Some people say they are long and tiring, while others say Alhamdulillah they are going well. I’ve personally noticed, if I don’t keep my eyes constantly on the clock (counting to Iftaar time), and keep myself preoccupied, be it with work, the recitation of Qur’an, spending time with family, or just taking a nap (which is Thawaab in this month!), then I am a more content person. Maybe that is why the older generation in our community can complete these fasts with such ease, because they have been taught contentment from a young age, which is an asset we have failed to understand in today’s day and age!
In reality, 18 hours does seem like a long time to go about without food and water. However, this wonderful month comes to us with its own strength, giving each individual who is willing to give it a chance, energy in abundance. I, for one, can attest to that!
Have we asked ourselves yet what our aim this month is? What do we want to achieve? Who do we want to be? And amidst all that, can we aim to focus on ‘the moment’ as opposed to constantly worrying about a time of which we aren’t even sure we will live to witness?
I figure if we understand the weight of this month and the bounties that the Almighty has stored within it, then we will be truly successful, because we will aim, we will try, and we will persevere. We may not succeed initially, but we won’t give up. Whereas if Kebabs, Samosas, and a nice cold drink (in this 30 degrees of heat) to satisfy our hunger and thirst, is constantly in the forefront of our minds, then we have missed the boat completely!
We’ve entered the banquet hall, we’ve been given the utensils, so what are we waiting for? Fill your bowls with His Mercy, your goblets with His forgiveness, and satisfy the pangs of hunger and thirst that your soul is feeling. And just in case you weren’t sure, we are definitely allowed seconds, and thirds!
Just take a minute and close your eyes; We received the call, and we answered. Now we stand, side by side with believers of different tribes and nations. The hall we stand in is so spacious – accommodating to the extent we cannot see its walls. Look up, and we see the stars scattered on Heaven’s floor – how beautiful! The recitation of Qur’an is heard in the distance, and thousands are busy at the tables that are not limited by ends. Take a closer look; Blessings, Mercy, and Forgiveness are being distributed in wholesale by angels, appointed by His Grace.
Really….is this an opportunity we are prepared to miss? All we have to do is walk to the table, and admit that we are in need of what He is giving. And in what state of mind do we extend our hands to His appointed ones? Surely not in the state of shame!
Ask yourself…are you truly making the most of this month, or is there still 4 hours and 32 minutes till Iftaar?