The older yours truly gets, the less patient, more reclusive I become concerning Ramadan's "social chores." Personally, I think it is hypocritical to show up once a year to a diwaniya to offer five-minute greetings to people I won't see for another year. Am I wrong to think so? Probably, due to the fact that visiting people is a sign of respect and part of our tradition, but life is short and I just can't be bothered.
Every Muslim worth their weight knows the Gates of Heaven are open every night during Ramadan.The purpose of Ramadan is to become a better Muslim, to pray, fast, read the Holy Koran, to offer charity, to offer meals to the needy if possible, to purify one's self, to make a difference in the community.
Ten years ago one would have done the social rounds, partaken in "Coat" card game tournaments, hang out at friends and watch television, indulge in late-night feasts, but now that seems alien in Ramadan.
Some individuals can balance the religious and social aspects of Ramadan; kudos to them, but others cannot. Being seen less and doing more, in my humble opinion, is more productive.
Is this attitude anti-social or just part of growing old, gracefully?
Comments (6)
I like your post but i also like having fun in ramadan and going out to friends etc. hehe. i think you should write more personal stuff like this post
Posted by Firaz | October 1, 2006 12:00 AM
Posted on October 1, 2006 00:00
Anti social!!
Posted by Anonymous | October 1, 2006 1:20 AM
Posted on October 1, 2006 01:20
Perhaps a combination of nature (introvert) and maturity? As we grow, we know ourselves better, we know our priorities, we sometimes see more clearly how we want to use our time. . . it sounds to me like what you crave - time with God and time reading the Qu'ran - are holy things.
The greetings are important, but, as you said, you can come and go. . .
Posted by Intlxpatr | October 1, 2006 7:07 AM
Posted on October 1, 2006 07:07
Amer, I think we all go through what you mentioned at one point or another, depending on the mood.
But yes I agree with what Intixpatr said: the older you get the more you value quality time and prioriticize.
Posted by Dubai Sunshine | October 1, 2006 10:58 AM
Posted on October 1, 2006 10:58
Asocial attitudes usually works for me on occasions such as Ramadan. It's good to know I'm not the only one.
Posted by Ahmed | October 1, 2006 2:24 PM
Posted on October 1, 2006 14:24
Some people use Ramadan for feasts and games. Others to build their "social status" and visibility by visiting others. Some do the religious thing. Nobody does *all* of the above.
Posted by Shiraziya | October 2, 2006 12:48 PM
Posted on October 2, 2006 12:48