Hi, my name is Yavin. I am in the WLCN’s 4’s class. Since my family is currently celebrating a religious event, I wanted to talk about it a little so that you all know 😊 According to the Islamic lunar calendar, this month is the month of Ramadan, which marks important holidays and events for Muslims (people who practice Islam). During Ramadan, my parents as well as millions of Muslims around the world fast, or refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. Once the sun sets, we sit down as a family for big meals and offer gratitude to the God and ask for blessings. This meal to break the fast is called Iftar that includes refreshing juice/smoothie, grilled vegetables, fruits, chickpeas, dates, sweets and more. My mom always prepares some special dishes for us!
Although I am too young to fast, this year, my eight-year-old sister Yara is fasting very spontaneously. My parents say this month is to perform generous acts, be kind and truthful, donate, and to remind ourselves about those in the world who don’t have enough to eat.
After the last day of Ramadan when the moon is seen, a three-day festival is held, which is called Eid-al-Fitr. This is the biggest religious festivals for Muslims all over the world. All the Howard County public schools remain closed in observance of the day also. We celebrate the day with a morning prayer at the mosque and later visit families and friends and have lots of fun. We put on new clothes, decorate our home and exchange gifts. My mom and sister draw beautiful designs with Henna (Mehndi) on their hands!!
