Inspired by the passion and devotion of my one Saudi student, and by the example of one of my mentors, I have decided to observe Ramadan in some way this year. My experiential knowledge of and about Islam is increasing exponentially; since Khaled's presentation on the period of prayer and fasting two weeks ago, and since I mentioned to him my interest in observing the season, he and I have had almost daily chats about the Koran, about Islam, about fasting, about who God is. He has lent me an English interpretation of the Koran - not technically the Koran itself, since this exists only in Arabic - and I have shared a small book of Christian-Muslim reflections with him. I admire his Arabic script; far more, I admire his commitment and dedication, his passion and hope.
And though it is strange to me, I have a sense of excitement and anticipation, almost like a child before Christmas. The starting date of Ramadan is not yet set - it may be tomorrow, it may be the following day - dependent on the sighting of the new crescent moon. I am aware that I am one of millions of people around the world who are waiting, today. The official word will be given, will, I suppose, flash around the world through websites and conversation. My excitement is mixed with some trepidation - how can I possibly fast the daylight hours of a whole month? Yet the excitement is winning - I am as a child not knowing about this season, I am as a child waiting with some impatience, I am as a child not only listening for the beginning from those who declare such things, but listening to the God who I know and do not know, the God who I will seek to listen to this season, the God who loves.
