Ramadan Mubarak!

Ramadan is the month of fasting for Muslims around the globe.  As we enter this month, we observe our fast with the abstinence of food, drink and sexual relations with our spouses from sunrise to sunset.  We also restrain ourselves from indulging in evil actions including backbiting, ridiculing, anger outbursts and harming others through our actions. 

"Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Quran, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong) so every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting."  Quran (S II –  Verse 185)

It is a time for reflection, spirituality, forgiveness and self-restraint… It is a time for the remembrance of our Lord and the asking of forgiveness. 

It is a time of self-renewal and learning the skills of being patient, compassionate and generous.  We learn to empathize with the “have-nots” and give more of our resources to those in need.   We become even more aware of our Lord’s blessings and his mercy on us.

It is a time of taking account of our accomplishments and establishing our future goals.  It is a time to refrain from being consumed/engulfed in the tedious details of our daily tasks and widening our outlook to view the bigger picture and to evaluate ourselves with respect to our purpose in the whole scheme of the universe.  .  It is a time to fulfill our Lord’s call to enjoin what is “right” and forbid what is “wrong.”

"Then strive together (as in a race) Towards all that is good.  Whosesoever ye are, God will bring you together.  For God hath power over all things."  Quran (S II- Verse 148)

As we approach another month of fasting, the Muslim Women’s League (as an organization) looks towards accomplishing its future goals.  The Muslim Women’s League is working towards networking with other organizations since strength is in unity and continuing our local events as well as reaching out to others through speeches, seminars, conferences and publications etc.

The post 9/11 era has challenged the Muslim community on several levels and made it incumbent on us all to speak out clearly and define Islam for what it is.  Muslims from all over the world and in specific, Muslim women are needed to become more vocal to define themselves and their struggle.  Please join us in this struggle to make a difference.