My First Ramadhan

[lifutushi]

no, this is his very first.... the story was written last month (Sya'aban)....


and this is the update:


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My first Ramadhan - Day 20



Written by Muhammad Bilal





Muhammad Bilal at Birmingham Central Mosque


This is the first time I have fasted in my entire life. I have so far being fasting for around 20 days. I thought it was going to be quite difficult but it has actually been quite easy.


I was worried a bit about the whole thing during the first day of fast. I had been hungry before in my life but with fasting it was a bit more difficult at the beginning. Everywhere I went I was being tempted by food.


<b>Giving up bad habits...</b><i></i>


In my house, there was fruit and drink and stuff and it did get quite alluring at times but I managed to fight it until it was time to break the fast in the evening. I had successfully got through my first day without a hitch.


The mornings have been the hardest time for me as I was used to smoking a cigarette every morning and to battle with that has been a quite hard. It takes me about 15 minutes to adjust every morning now but on the plus side, it is helping me recognise that I can survive without smoking and so it may help me give up altogether.


<b>Talking to others about my faith ...</b><i></i>





Muhammad at work


During this month, I have tried to increase my Islamic awareness by talking to my work colleagues about the Qur'an and my faith. This is easier to do when I'm fasting as everyone is aware that all of the Muslim employees are observing Ramadhan.


Remembering my religion also keeps my mind off my stomach and the need for food; it helps me condition my urges. I have been coming to the mosque to pray everyday, usually during my breaks.


I have also been breaking my fast at Iftar time with nearly a hundred other Muslims at the mosque but my work breaks are too short to stay for the full main meals although I can do this on weekends.


<b>Looking forward to Eid ...</b><i></i>





Muhammad at Birmingham Central Mosque


I have just over ten days left, the final ten of which are the most important days during this holy month. I hope that I can keep my prayers up and continue to observe all of the fasts.


I am looking forward to my first Eid with other Muslims. I have been told a lot about the celebrations after Ramadhan and am eagerly waiting to participate in the festivities. I have enjoyed this experience as it has made me a stronger person and I look forward to it again next year.