Approaching Ramadan with Gratitude and Reflection

I can't help but think of the time between the last Ramadan and this one as we approach closer to the next one. A year can mean a lot, and the last one transformed my life in ways I never dreamed it would. Those two Ramadans were tough on them.

It came quietly and deeply, making it one of the darkest times of my life. There were times when I didn't know what was going on, times when I felt weak, and times when I doubted my own strength.

I had to slow down and deal with truths I didn't expect because my life changed without my permission. But something unexpected still happened. I felt like I was getting closer to Allah ﷻ instead of farther away. When I couldn't find a way out of a situation, I asked God for help. Duas seemed more real. The quiet felt essential. I learnt to be patient via experience, not through words.

I understood that hard times have a way of getting rid of distractions and bringing the heart back to what really matters. This past year taught me that being close to Allah ﷻ doesn't necessarily imply being at ease. Sometimes, unsolved questions, silent tears, and broken moments could be the base.

Grief can even bring us to religion if we allow it. What had seemed like loss slowly became a path to follow. I am incredibly thankful that Ramadan is coming up again. I'm thankful for both the good and bad times that brought me closer to God. Thankful for the lessons I didn't ask for yet needed. Thankful for the progress that came from letting go.

I begin this Ramadan with a heart that is softer, a faith that is stronger, and a sense of trust that is new. I now realize that even the worst things can help me become closer to Allah. And for that, I say with all my heart, Alhamdulillah.