Ramadan Reflection
Ramadan, observed March 10 through April 9 this year, is considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer, personal reflection and focus on their communities. Ramadan takes place during the ninth month in the Islamic calendar based on the lunar cycle, or phases of the moon. Houston Methodist Chaplain Narjess Kardan shares why the observance holds a significant place in her life.
“When I was younger, my dad would drive us to the highest point in our town—the parking lot of my elementary school—to look for the moon. Staring up at the dark sky and waiting for that first glimpse of the crescent moon was always an exciting and mystical experience. I remember feeling a sense of anticipation and wonder, knowing that this moment signaled the start of Ramadan.
The Islamic lunar calendar is based on the sighting of the crescent moon, called hilal, which marks the beginning of each month. This practice has been a part of Islamic tradition for over 1,400 years. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of observing the lunar cycle, and taught his followers to look for the crescent moon.
Ramadan is a month of immense spiritual significance for many Muslims. It is a time of deep reflection, self-improvement and connection with our faith and community. It also brings with it a set of deeply personal core values that shrift throughout our lives that are fundamental to Islamic tradition.
When I first started fasting, I viewed Ramadan primarily as a time of increased discipline, self-control, and prayer. I focused on the physical and religious traditions of the month, such as waking up for the pre-dawn meal (suhoor), breaking our fast in the evening (iftar), and going to the mosque to pray night prayers (taraweeh). During my childhood, Ramadan was a time of communal iftars, late-night prayers and shared experiences.”
Use Your 2024 DEI Personal Day
Eligible employees may use their 2024 DEI Personal Day PTO hours to celebrate days that are special to them or other members of their faith, race, nationality or anything else that makes them unique. Please note that unlike standard PTO, the hours do not roll over to the next year, so don’t forget to use your personal day before the last day of the final pay period of 2024, which is December 14, 2024. As with all PTO hours, employee requests are subject to approval by their supervisor. For more details, see HR Policy 72.
April Monthly Observances
Deaf History Month
Arab American History Month
Autism Acceptance Month
Month of the Military Child
April Interfaith Holidays
Eid al-Fitr (Islam) April 10
Vaisakhi (Sikh) April 13
Passover (Jewish) April 22 – 30
Leave a Reply