One of the things I absolutely cherish and love is spending the month of Ramadan with family and friends in the comfort of what we call home.
Suddenly, everything feels a little bit different, a bit chaotic even; there seems to be a change in the air. The streets become almost empty before breaking the fast because everyone is hurrying towards home to break fasting together and share food together. It’s as if the city itself pauses, holding its breath for that sacred moment when families gather to break their fast together with the sound of Adhan.
I feel privileged each year that I get to spend Ramadan and do Iftar and Suhoor with my family at home. I once spent a few days of Ramadan outside the country, and it was painful—not knowing anyone, not hearing adhan, and not being able to break fast at the same table with my family.
Sitting around the table with loved ones, making the final Dua before Iftar, the hue and cry during Iftar preparation, and finally breaking fast with the family while BTV plays the Adhan—a scenario so many can relate —these are the moments that root me, that remind me what home truly means.
Many take the job of “Chief Sharbat Maker” of our job during this month, and it’s a great fun responsibility! That first sip of Sharbat after a day of fasting is something else! Every bite of those familiar dishes passed down through generations tastes as good as you can imagine. It’s more than a meal; it’s a warm hug from the inside out, a reminder that I’m where I belong.
With each passing year, there may be some changes to the table as well. For example, I still miss my father during these Iftar meals. There may be missing seats in each family, awaiting to be filled. Sadly, some chairs will never be filled again, and you have to make peace with it.
Spending Ramadan with my family at home is an absolute privilege. It’s one of the best feelings ever. Shukur Alhamdulillah. May Allah allow us to make the best use of Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem, everyone. 🌙
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