A Ramadan Reflection
This year’s Ramadan in the UK has been a bit easier since it follows the lunar calendar and sunset is during the early evening, unlike last year when sunset was a lot later, and thus the fasting was more difficult. But having observed Ramadan throughout my life, I am somewhat used to this annual practice, from which I would unwittingly build a lot of resilience and fortitude, which I can see the benefits of now as an adult.
Every religion has some sort of ritual of observation and abstinence, and upholding these can indicate one’s religiosity, which becomes a badge of honour amongst others in our communities. There is seemingly no end of rituals and ideals to observe and uphold, from how we outwardly appear in public with hats, headscarves, symbolic jewellery et al, to how much of our time is devoted to prayer and attendance in a house of worship. These are all very important in the grand social dynamics of being part of a group, however what becomes clear, none of these guarantee any form of personal integrity.
Our reputations precede us, and how any of us would be described by others would vary vastly between those who may love us and those who may loathe us. Wearing the right religious garment, observing the seemingly compulsory rituals on time may build one’s reputation, but is of no indication as to whether one is renowned for keeping their word when and where it matters most.
Not everyone who belongs to the same religious identity gets along, in the modern world it is easy to learn that the virtues of integrity are not exclusive to any group, and that people with integrity exist across all identities.
Religion is a fascinating social phenomenon that permeates all human endeavour, it is at the foundation of all civilisations. Despite how insignificant the mythology seems to be in modern times, where science and rationalism are readily engaged, the religious narrative is still a functional component of our identities and cultures. However, affiliation to any religion is of no way an indication of one’s integrity, that can only be assessed by the quality of the bonds of those we interact with.
As a man in his forties, having lived life this far where the naivety of youth has been thoroughly purified by the unforgiving vicissitudes of real human life, I have met many very religious people who seemingly uphold all the rules and regulations of their faith, but whose tempers and words were quickly exposed as less than exhibitive of the sagely qualities expected from such religious observance. And too, I have met those with little or no religious affiliation, yet whose compassion and integrity has been exemplary.
It’s easy to wear the badge and tell everyone about it, it’s much harder to live consciously of our own shortcomings, and endeavour to be the quality of character someone else need us to be, particularly those who find themselves at the mercy of our integrity.
