As many headlines have already stated, we are currently living through unprecedented times due to COVID-19 and are quarantined for our own benefit; what does this mean, then, for a lot of our traditions and practices? This past month, Muslims around the globe participated in the holy month of Ramadan, ending in the joyous celebration of Eid. This month is usually filled with families coming together for iftar, the meal used to break the daily fast, and big celebrations and get-togethers on the days of Eid; this year, however, fasting and festivities looked a little different.
To dig deeper into the new stresses (and possible silver linings) of Ramadan and Eid while sheltered in place, Minahil Sheikh and Aleena Ghori, both sophomores, shared their experiences of participating and celebrating from home.
“It was actually more relaxed to stay at home because it really gave me time to connect with my family,” Sheikh shared, reflecting on how Ramadan would usually be a time filled with busy iftar “dinner parties” and spending time “going to iHop with friends during sunrise,” but because of the lockdown, those activities were not feasible. She continued to recount how she and her mother would bond over “preparing a whole feast every night filled with [their] favorite food” for her family to enjoy after breaking their fasts. It is clear that, despite the limitations on her usual social events brought about by the pandemic, Sheikh managed to still have a positive and festive experience with her family while at home.
Ghori shared a similar outlook on enjoying the festivities of the month from home, but also found belonging and connection to her Muslim faith regardless of outside interactions.
“My favorite thing about Ramadan is how it strengthens the Muslim community as a whole,” she reflected. “This year, although having to stay at home, [it] was just as special.”
Aleena went on to share her realization that “it’s not just the community and companionship that makes these 30 days so great, it’s the feeling of being a part of something bigger than yourself. That doesn’t go away when you’re confined to your house.”
From both Ghori’s and Sheikh’s accounts, it is uplifting to see how the joy and connection that the holy month brings was still very much present while sheltering in place. The spirit and traditions of Eid – though they may have looked different – remained strong by these students, their families, and many Muslims around the world.