Selamat Berpuasa
Ramadan is here and this is the most awaited month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims all around the world know that during this month there are so many opportunities for them to make good to offset whatever bad they have done throughout the year...

Besides fasting during Ramadan, actually we can do a lot of other things.

Reach Out to Those Around You
Is there a family in your neighborhood that you haven't seen in a while? Some students who just moved in your housing area last June or July? A new Muslim maybe, who is fasting for the first time? An elderly couple who can't get to the mosque? Why not take a few minutes to make a phone call or drop in for a visit. I used to do this for my bachelor colleagues - invite them for berbuka (or iftar i.e. dinner to break the daily fast). Even the smallest gesture of kindness can make a huge difference in someone's life.

Help Those in Need
All around the world, and even in our own neighborhood, there are people who are suffering from illness, hunger, or desperation.

"Those who spend their wealth by night and day, in secret and in public, shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve" (Al-Qur'an 2:274).

"By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you give freely from that which you love. And whatever you give, Allah knows it well" (Al-Qur'an 3:92).

Volunteer Your Time
Even more valuable than money is a gift of your time. Is your local mosque hosting iftar dinners? Why not come early for berbuka to help with the planning or stay late to help clean-up? PMR is looming, is there a neighbor or a friend's child that need help in a subject that you master? Why not give a free tuition? Is there any school that needs guest teachers or speakers? Find out what you can do to help.

Pray for Others
"When My servants ask thee about Me, I am indeed close to them. I respond to the prayer of every suppliant when he calls on Me. Let them also, with a will, listen to My call, and believe in Me, that they may walk in the right way" (Al-Qur'an 2:186).

Most importantly, during this very special month, take the time to pray for others - your family, your loved ones, those who are ill, those who live in fear, those who go hungry, those who walk in darkness.

May Allah guide all of us upon the straight path of faith, and help us to be filled with piety, patience, humility, and kindness.

Selamat Berpuasa...