Ramadan Fasting and Fun

Ramadan is a time for deep inward reflection self-control as well as self-improvement. Yet, it is equally a time for enjoyment of family and friends and for saying a strong "thank you!" for all the gifts we've been blessed with (for believing Muslims, principally the Quran, but also the food we so often take for granted, our loving family, and the neighbors who make our lives wonderful and all such gifts).

Islam teaches that the golden mean should govern our lives.

The Golden Mean in nature

 We are not to lead our lives in total asceticism nor in total hedonism, but to strike a balanced life that includes joy and pleasure set within limits of our good habits, bringing respect to the lives of ourselves and others. There is a saying that captures this balance nicely,

"Work for this life as though you are going to live forever. Work for the Next life as though you will die tommorrow." (Ali Ibn Talib 600 - 661)

During Ramadan, Muslims fast during from sunrise to sunset, which includes abstaining from food, drink, sex, cigarettes, bubble gum, etc. Each evening however, once the fast is broken those things which were forbidden are allowed, and it is a time to treasure and enjoy being with one's close family and friends, as well as dedicating time to prayer and learning.

Taraweeah Prayers during Ramadan

The Taraweeah prayers are held nightly during Ramadan, during which time the congregation attempts to read the Quran in its entirety by the end of the holy month.
Taraweeah prayers often run very long. You stand, in the usual prayer format, row by row, shoulder to shoulder, praying side by side and speaking to God in unison. You feel not only great strength and warmness of community, but also the prayer itself has a strongly meditative effect, after long hours of prayer your mind becomes focused, rhythmic, awakened and in touch with the unity and presence of your human neighbors beside you, the earth below, and the heavens above.