Ramadan

What do you know, this is my first Ramadan. The holy month of fasting for the followers of Islam, which have started officially last Wednesday (11th). During Ramadan, Muslims are not allowed to drink, eat, or smoke from sunup to sundown. In Muslim countries, there is a slowing in the pace and ritual of daily life to accommodate people’s hunger and lower energy levels. In fact, in some countries, eating and drinking in public places, even for non-Muslims, is discouraged if not prohibited.


Working here in Dubai, I was exposed to Islamic beliefs and practices, which I have learned to respect and, in many instances, even admire. (Interestingly, it appears that my exposure to Islamic faith has made me appreciate my religion more and has enabled me to be more tolerant of other people’s beliefs, religious or otherwise).

I had been born into a Catholic family but my being Christian is more than a mere accident of birth — it is also the faith I choose. My faith is a great source of comfort for me. I doubt I would have been able to face the challenges in my life if it were not for my faith. It is a faith that encourages acceptance and grace. When I have to face life’s disappointments, surrendering and knowing that all are part of a divine plan is incredibly comforting and provides me perspective.



I’m sure that we all have our own reasons for our choice of faith and we must all respect and celebrate those choices. Whatever your faith is, what is vital is that you choose it — meaning you are committed to your faith and you make it a part of your life. Commitment does not mean having a perfect faith or living a perfect life. It is an aspect of the human condition that we all will fail in our religious duties. I believe that being committed to your faith means that you strive to be the best Muslim, Christian, Jew or Buddhist that you can be. Just imagine how much better this world would be if the majority of Muslims and Christians actually lived their faith and genuinely practiced the virtues of love, kindness and charity that are the hallmarks of all great religions.