As this Holy month approaches us, I find myself not just preparing myself for its blessings but also for the unfortunate side-dish of judgement. You know, those people who play game of thrones (as Shaykh Murad calls it) and points out everyone elses flaws or so- called “hypocrisy” from their high chairs (an image more suitable than a throne, because they are quite juvenile). I’m talking about those people fond of the term “Ramadaan Muslim” (sigh).

But I wanted to give a shout to “Ramadaan Muslims”, who recognise there’s something wrong and are trying to fix it even if it’s just for a month.

People will tell you you’re a hypocrite. People will say you’re insincere. People will question why 11 out of 12 months you’re neglectful of salaahs, or why you abandon your headscarf, or why you party or smoke or drink (sad reality amongst our youth innit). People will wonder why in this one month you’re almost unrecognisable,  why you act and even look different. Why your opinions and priorities have completely shifted.

Let them say it. Let them wonder. Most people that are saying it are envious that you had the courage to embrace the holy month despite all the crap you got up to before it. The easiest way to justify their continued less-than-halaal behaviour is by claiming you’re a hypocrite and they’re just honest with who they are (maybe they are, good for them). But most of the time the people saying it feel like they’re being judged and its always easiest to divert judgement on them by judging others.

I was called a “Ramadaan Muslim” all through university because it was the only month I’d wear my head scarf. Even some of my close friends called me that. Man, did it hurt. It made me question myself and my intentions. It made me wonder whether I should water down my efforts in Ramadaan so that I’m not such a double standard. It made me feel like my efforts were futile and just an act and I was wasting my time.

What I reminded myself everyday is that Ramadaan is meant for change. It’s the annual spiritual detox for the believer, a chance to recollect and reset, an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. We really don’t have time to analyse the acts and worship of our family and friends. It’s a month for us to recognise our own weaknesses and work towards correcting them. We have this opportunity to be better than we were before. The ultimate goal is to get closer to our Creator, we can’t afford to be distracted by the deeds of creation.

We shouldn’t ever judge people for trying because we have no idea what their intention is or how sincere they are. We shouldn’t ever, ever discourage people from doing good deeds. Just so you know, Alhamdulillah,  I’ve been wearing my headscarf since last Ramadaan. It’s not perfect, I’ve slipped up, but it’s the best I’ve done in my life and it started in Ramadaan. This could be the year it sticks for someone, this could be the Ramadaan that changes them, so let’s not slow anyone down with our own opinions.

Blessed Ramadaan all, I hope its filled with all the answers you’ve been looking for, I pray we all come out as kinder, more grateful and steadfast muslims!

9 (10) days left ya’ll!

Allāhumma ṣalli ‘alā sayyidinā muḥammadi nin nūri wa ālihī
“O Allah, send salutations upon our Master Muhammad, the Light, and his Family!”