Ramadan

One of my least favorite times of the year is Ramadan, everyone one changes their schedules and tries to increase their show of religious piety.  No food of drink from morning to night in the hot summer desert sun, makes people struggle to keep up friendship and relationships.  I feel much ignored as an outsider and struggle to find ways to connect with neighbours. Asking them if they are fasting forces one of three responses and none of them seem to lead to the good news.  One - they pridefully admit that they are fasting and boast in their own strength.  Two – they aren’t fasting but don’t want to lose face, but the question pressures them to lie.  Third- they admit they are not fasting and are filled with shame in front of everyone who also heard the meek confession. I also struggle how to make bridges to the gospel during this long month.  I rejoice that it is behind us for another year and relationships can recommence. 

The only part of the holiday I rejoice in is the visiting at the end, being back in their homes and introducing them all to my new roommate.