Embracing Empathy & Understanding Through Ramadan
Islam is often misunderstood, and with that misunderstanding comes a lack of awareness about one of the most sacred and beautiful times of the year for Muslims—Ramadan. So, let’s take a moment to really understand what Islam is, what Ramadan means, and the profound impact it has on those who observe it.
Islam, at its core, means peace and submission to the will of God. It is a way of life that revolves around faith, compassion, and service to others. As Muslims, we believe in one God (Allah), follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and live by the guidance of the Holy Quran. But beyond these basics, Islam is about connection—connection to God, to community, and to our own spiritual selves. And Ramadan is a time when this connection deepens.
What is Ramadan?
Many people think that Ramadan is simply about abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. While fasting is a major part of it, it is so much more than that. Ramadan is a time of deep reflection, spiritual cleansing, and self-discipline. It is a time when Muslims strive to become the best versions of themselves—letting go of bad habits, focusing on kindness, giving to those in need, and strengthening their faith.
For me personally, Ramadan is a time for deep healing and understanding of my own self. It is an opportunity to slow down, to focus on my spiritual growth, and to strengthen my connection with my Creator. When you are consciously abstaining—not just from food and drink but also from negative thoughts, harmful speech, and distractions—you become more aware of your actions and intentions. That awareness brings a sense of peace and purpose that is difficult to put into words.
The Beauty of Ramadan Traditions
One of my favorite aspects of Ramadan is the time spent with my family. We prepare meals together, we gather at the masjid (mosque) for prayers, and we engage in acts of charity, such as feeding the less fortunate. Some of my happiest moments are with my parents during this time. I make it a point to spend as much time as I can with them, especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
The last ten nights are particularly special because they hold Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power), which is considered the most blessed night of the year. It is the night when the Quran was first revealed, and prayers made on this night are believed to be more powerful than those made over a thousand months. This is a time when Muslims increase their worship, seeking forgiveness and divine blessings.
The Reality of Being a Muslim in Today’s World
As beautiful and sacred as Ramadan is, being Muslim in today’s world isn’t always easy. Many of us experience discrimination, ignorance, and even outright hostility. My family and I have endured racial slurs and derogatory comments. My husband, for instance, was once at work when a colleague—unaware that he was Muslim—casually remarked, “We should just get rid of them all.” Another time, someone mocked his prayers with a hateful comment, completely oblivious to the fact that “Allahu Akbar” simply means “God is the Greatest.”
It is disheartening, and at times, it weighs heavily on my mind. But I always return to what my father taught me: “Knowledge is Power.” Ignorance leads to insensitivity, and the best way to combat it is through education and awareness. This is why I share my experiences—not for sympathy, but to foster understanding. My hope is that by shedding light on what Islam truly is, more people will recognize the beauty of our faith rather than fear it.
Emile Bruneau, a renowned neuroscientist who studied conflict resolution, once said, “Empathy is not simply a soft skill—it’s a strategic skill for reducing intergroup conflict.” If more people took the time to understand one another, to engage in genuine curiosity instead of judgment, we could create a world that values unity over division.
The Contributions of Muslims to Society
Muslims across the world contribute immensely to their communities and to global peace. During Ramadan alone, billions of dollars are donated to charity, and millions of people are fed through community food drives. Islam places great emphasis on helping the poor, seeking justice, and promoting peace. From medical advancements to educational contributions, Muslim scholars and leaders have played a vital role in shaping the world we live in today.
A Call for Empathy and Understanding
If there’s one message I want to leave you with, it’s this: Be kind. Be curious. Be compassionate. Before saying something hurtful or making an assumption, take a moment to ask questions and learn. Treat your Muslim friends, coworkers, or students with the same respect you would want for yourself. We are not so different—we laugh, we love, we struggle, and we hope for a better world just like you do.
And to those who still see us as outsiders—I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I went to school here. I grew up in the United States. And no, I don’t need a green card. Someone once asked my husband that at work, and honestly? I just have to laugh. I choose to find humor in these moments and continue to educate because I refuse to let ignorance define my experience.
As I conclude, I want to leave you with this beautiful verse from the Quran:
Surah Al-Hujurat 49:13 O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise each other). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted with all things.
The great Persian poet Rumi once wrote, “Be like a tree and let the dead leaves drop.” This resonates deeply with me, as it reminds us to let go of resentment and focus on growth, empathy, and love.
At the end of the day, my wish is simple: Can we all just get along?
Stepping out of my comfort zone to share this with you wasn’t easy. For years, fear held me back—the fear of being judged, of touching on topics that some might find uncomfortable. But then I realized something: Growth never happens in comfort. If I truly believe in the power of diversity, inclusion, and education, then staying silent would be a disservice—not just to myself, but to my community, my sisterhood, and to anyone willing to listen and learn.
Mama, never underestimate the power and impact you have—not just in raising your children, but in shaping the world they will inherit. When we embrace knowledge, empathy, and understanding, we pass those values on. If this post inspires you to have a conversation with your child, your friend, or your coworker—then I’ve done what I set out to do. Together, we can continue building a world that sees beyond labels and leans into compassion.
This Ramadan, I hope to complete my fasts with sincerity, to grow in faith, and to continue shining the light I was created with—onto you, my community, and the world.
If you’re still here, reading this, thank you—from the bottom of my heart. And if you have questions, ask. Engage. Learn. But above all, choose kindness.
