As we approach the end of Ramadan here are some reflections to mark this holy month.

Starting from the beginning, Piccadilly Circus in London was illuminated for the first time ever with a lights display.The installation, which features 30,000 lights forming 61 moons, was developed in partnership with the heart of London Business Alliance. The display was organised by a woman named Ayesha Desai who wanted to raise awareness of this special month and to show people just how important Ramadan is for muslim people. The exhibit was a wonderful showcase of diversity.

All during Ramadan, Taraweeh prayers—a unique prayer offered only during Ramadan—were observed. Muslims also sought Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) during the last 10 days of Ramadan. On the 27th night of Ramadan, which is popularly regarded as Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, almost two million worshipers descended onto the Grand Mosque in Makkah and Madinah demonstrating the unity of muslims and how ramadan brings muslims from all around the globe together.

The month of Ramadan is a time to give, reflect, and develop faith.  For many people, this is helping in the community, making donations to charities, and spending time with close friends and family. People also aim to develop better habits that they can try to maintain throughout the rest of the year. Here are two reflections from those who observed fasting during this month.

“Once again Ramadan has flown by. It is one of my favourite times of the year because of the ambiance and spirit that it brings, the feeling of It is truly unmatched.During this holy month, I am able to devote myself to my faith. I also love to study more about the prophet (PBUH) at this time, and I always work to further develop positive habits that I want to carry on even after Ramadan is done. I’ve been really enjoying Omar Suleiman’s Jannah series this year; he is very well spoken and his demeanor really encapsulates what it is to be a devout Muslim.”

“During Ramadan, we develop discipline and fasting is about more than just giving up food. We are working to improve our relationship with God by doing things such as  reading the Quran and letting go of bad habits. My goal this year was to read some Quran and I am grateful that I was able to achieve this. “

“There will always be food available after sunset, which some people around the world do not have. This is why I love the atmosphere of Ramadan because it emphasizes the importance of giving to those who are less fortunate than us and in need. Giving to charity is a significant part of Ramadan , it is also one of the five pillars of Islam, so this is something we must do throughout the entire year. This shows how essential it is for Muslims to continue giving to charity even after Ramadan. I really do look forward to experiencing many more Ramadans because it is  a special and beneficial time for us Muslims and is greatly missed once it is over.”

Sheikha Begum, 22

“Ramadan, where do I start ? The quenched thirst ? The tiredness , the cotton mouth the feeling of survival ?. That’s what non Muslims see when they see us fast in the holy month of Ramadan. When we fast our spiritual level within our hearts opens like a flaps on a eagle and come closer to Allah. We feel happy that we are fasting from our stomach and mouths. It’s a blessed month where people around you are kind and helpful. It’s the month of giving in charity helping the people in need and who are less fortunate than us.”

“The whole atmosphere within a family household is one I cannot describe. Everyone in the household doing their job cleaning cooking setting up the table. Sitting as a family with a whole feast in front of us is a blessing. Everyday that goes by we say allhamdulliah (All praise due to God) Allah has allowed us to reach Ramadan where we can ask for forgiveness. Going to the mosque late night where it’s phenomenally packed. Everyone is gathering to pray as one all from different backgrounds you get a warmth in your heart when standing in prayer.”

“Ramadan is not just about not eating or drinking. It’s about getting closer to god with our own actions, being kind to our families rebuilding that connection with people who we have lost due to anger and have a clean slate in our hearts. Ramadan has left us but In Shaa Allah (If God wills) we see it again “

Omar Ali, 24