My First Ramadan:
Okay, sort of but not really. So, I see my neighbors putting boxes and boxes of dates in their cars, and I’m like, “what’s up?” and she’s all, “it’s for Ramadan,” and I’m all “oh, okay,” and then I’m like “okay bye.” and she’s all “bye.” The hubs doesn’t do a whole lot of talking.
So, that was like two or three days ago right. So, today I have to go up and tell her not to use her kitchen sink until the plumber comes, and before I leave she like hands me some dates and she’s all, “they’re for Ramadan.”
And I’m all “okay, thanks.” (Squishy face) because I still don’t know what they signify.
Hmm. Google and Siri here I come. Now I know, so I’m sharing.
“Dates are a staple fruit of the Middle East having been in cultivation for thousands of years. Traditionally, dates are known as the food Muhammad ate when he broke from his fast.” That’s according to About.com.
That’s cool right? ! I know! Anywho. The medical reason for it is because dates contain many nutrients the body can absorb really quickly after fasting from sunrise to sunset. You’ve just spent the whole day not eating so you don’t want to get sick by eating something too fatty and lacking in vital nutrients. So not only are you emulating Mohammad but you’re protecting your health as well. Nice.
Technically , I broke my four hour fast, fast-lite, with some Indian food today. That’s how we socalians do it:-) but it didn’t stop me from appreciating my new shared experience with my neighbor.
Goodness knows after Sunday’s hatred in Orlando, we need to spread inclusion and togetherness as much as we can. We, after all, are all one.
WhiteHausRules 