As the blazing sun sets on the long day, every Muslim household is filled with the sound of the radio waves.
Our mothers are frantically cleaning their kitchens, changing the curtains and preparing the house for you, dear friend.
Our sisters are giggling and folding the last batch of spinach samosas for the evening feasts.
Our brothers are rehearsing their melodious Our’anic recitations to perfection, to recite during the night prayer.
Our fathers are fixing their best white thobes and pristine fezzes, to look presentable.
Islam, and Ramadān unites many different Muslims from different backgrounds, races and cultures. Under the green banner of religion and strict monotheism, we are brothers & sisters, we are one nation, in unity who adheres to the staunch commands of one GOD.
Many households, around the world at different times rally around their radios, TV’s, livestreams etc. for your arrival.
Our anticipation is broken by a loud voice,“
Assalamu Alaykom listeners, with the sighting of the new moon, Ramadān will commence tomorrow”, announced the radio host.
The entire Muslim nation bursts with emotion. Family members, sisters, brothers, friends congratulate each other by hugging or shaking hands, out of joy, gratitude and excitement for see our anticipated friend another time.
“Alhamdulilah,” (All praise is due to Allāh alone) reverberates throughout the world.
Tears of happiness streamed from some eyes, and tears of sadness streamed from others, due to the remembrance of the once lively but now unoccupied seats at some family tables, and some drowned in tears of gratitude on reaching the blessings of the holy month.
No matter how much sadness overtook a Muslim due to war, hunger, famine etc., Ramadān is certainly, the friend who removes those fears and brings forward hope and mercy from the Lord of mankind.
As the last call to prayer of the day is sounded over the microphone, I sit and stare at the dark sky filled with an endless amount of stars, like Allāh’s endless amount of mercy and forgiveness, as HIS sovereignty fills the air. With tears of gratitude nesting in the corners of my hungry eyes, I welcome my much awaited friend,
“Asalaamu Alaykom (Peace be upon you).
Come forth, Ramadān. Ignite our hearts with unwavering faith.”