This year, Ramadan will be quiet for me. And that’s okay.
“I haven’t watched the ‘Ramadan Prep’ videos you emailed me. I will.” My brother says.
We’re in the kitchen at home talking about the ways in which the necessity of social distancing and isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic will affect Ramadan.
This Ramadan, there will be more online learning. Many activities have been cancelled: prayers at the mosque; community Iftaar dinners; walk-in volunteer soup kitchens; Ramadan pop up stores; and Chaand Raat festivities with party snacks and henna celebrated on the eve of Eid.
Ramadan is my favourite month of the Islamic year. For me, it’s a time for spiritual renewal. I try to take the opportunity to reflect and show gratitude. I take part in social outings, and enjoy them, but sometimes they distract me from quieting my mind and focussing on the deeper meaning of the month of fasting.
“The whole world has slowed down and has an opportunity to go inwards.” My brother says.
My friend Rachael told me her daughter felt Passover was “lonely” this year.
Since synagogues were closed, some participated in virtual Passover services. Community Seders were cancelled. With this in mind, members of the Jewish community put together prepackaged Seder plates so people wouldn’t have to travel to multiple grocery stores to get the required food items.
“We communicated through food.” Rachael laughs.
“My mom still did all of the cooking, but she dropped it off at our doorsteps. It was a good way for her to keep busy while cooped up in isolation.”
While some families limited the Seder traditional dinner to members of their household, Rachael shared the occasion with extended family and friends using Zoom.
“It’s important to preserve the multi-generational aspect of sharing the story of Passover. It’s a story of perseverance. I want my kids to learn it.”
My friend Anne enjoys attending church weekly with her family. Churches are closed so she tries regularly to listen to services on-line. This year, she found it challenging to make time to pray and reflect, like she ordinarily would during Holy week.
“During COVID, my kids’ pastor has been sending me short videos through WhatsApp to share with them. She sends reminders about how to develop good character, and prayers. It’s helpful.” Anne says.
“Our Easter sermon helped me. I’ve been caught up in the busyness of my life with the kids at home all day. It reminded me of how blessed I am, to think of others, and to trust in God’s plan.”
As a public school teacher, Anne is adjusting to the Ontario Ministry of Education’s new “Learn at Home” program. She’s happy to hear from her students’ parents. Most of the parents email often during the day and at night to ask questions about the lessons she shares, and their children’s progress. Anne’s learning to strike a balance between work and home life while teaching her own young children.
I taught with Anne for years. She’ll figure out a way to make things work.
We all have to figure out different ways to make things work.
As always, Muslims can pray at home. Some will pray in congregation with their households, others will be led by an Imam virtually, and some will pray by themselves. Some friends and I have talked about organizing a Zoom Iftaar.
Muslims are encouraged to donate and volunteer more during Ramadan. COVID-19 has caused a ripple effect for charities so donations and volunteerism are especially needed locally and abroad. Some will continue to make efforts to: provide frontline health care workers with the necessary supplies in treating patients and minimizing the spread of the virus; do grocery shopping for neighbours in need; reach out to those who are particularly vulnerable when isolated; and donate to food banks. Some rely on the meals provided at community Iftaars, so community members have organized meal deliveries.
My family and I recognize we are privileged to be able to break our long fasts at Iftaar with a fridge stocked with food.
These are tough times. This Ramadan, perhaps, the intimacy of our experiences will help us to feel the gratitude we are meant to during this month.
Rania Mirza 