I hear this word Alhumdulillah so often. I used to think it was a bit of a throw away word. A word that perhaps could mean a multitude. Like when us Irish say “thank God!” We could say it after something serious or it could be something in a joking manner.
It is a word that is said often here by Muslim friends. In english it is in reference to being thankful to God. One of my blogger friends Zeyna writes on her blog each month, the reasons why she is thankful and I really do look forward to reading them. A nice reminder that we do have so much to be thankful for all year round.
For those who do not know what Ramadan is? It is a time for forgiveness, a chance to repent, time to improve and a chance to reflect. Muslims wake up well before dawn to eat their first meal of the day which has to last them until sunset which they call Iftar. This lasts for around 30 days and they believe that it is one of the five pillars of Islam.
What does Ramadan mean to me?
As a non muslim looking in to the lives of the Muslim community in my area – I see people reflecting on the year they have just had. I see people at peace, being thankful, doing good deeds, giving away their time and/or money to those who need it. You often see people distributing meals on the roads at Iftar time, or see children filling fridges in areas all over Dubai with food and water for those who need it to just take without any questions. People just seem to be happier and more appreciative of others during this time.
What does Alhumdulillah mean to me?
To be thankful. For what ever you have – Just be thankful for it. Always remember the blessings that you have and try to eliminate any tendency’s to complain. I have said it a million times before and I am aware that I am a broken record some days but I truly am very thankful to live in the Middle East. A place that allows us to celebrate all cultures, all religions, all traditions and not ask any questions as to why we are not changing our beliefs to fit in. They understand and accept that we are all human and that we do not need to all believe in the same things.
Humanity comes first here, it really does. I believe my littles will take away so much from growing up here but one sentence my Neighbour always says to them…
“Be Kind. Kinder. The kindest!”
Alhumdulillah that they will remember this always.
Love, Helly xx
