Reflection of Ramadan 2021

Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar, a time for spiritual connection. The purpose of fasting is an act of worship that teaches patience, perseverance and charity.

As I reflect towards the end of Ramadan 2021 I write this message to all my colleagues at Wynne Consulting. I’m also confident that many Muslims in the UK will all be in agreement with the following message;

This year in the UK, the fasting day has been long. The morning meal starts before dawn, around 3am. And people won’t break their fast until after 8pm. That’s 17+ hours without food or drink (yes no water too). This is followed up by attending an extra prayer at night with the duration ranging from 10:00pm to 12:30am. (With social distance measures implemented).

It can be difficult in terms of adjusting to a different eating and sleeping habit for 30 days. Despite the physical challenges, Ramadan is a time of joy, spiritual fulfilment, generosity, and greater God consciousness.

Supporting colleagues during Ramadan is part of building a workplace where everyone is respected and valued. This leads me to give a special mention to my employers - You have been amazing to me...

You made my month of fasting as accommodating as possible. Being conscious by not mentioning food in my presence, apologising for offering me a cup of tea out of habit (I drink a lot of cups) not eating in front of me and allowing flexibility with time off and adjusting my hours of work.

Not once did you question my productivity levels. You put my needs ahead of targets & profits and this is what makes working for Wynne Consulting so great. Sometimes its not about your earnings but the environment you work in - A great employer is one that truly respects you for who you are and makes you feel appreciated and valued - that is what I define as a good working environment.

It may not seem a big deal to you; but for me it meant a lot.

The UK is a very generous and accommodating country by allowing one to practice their religion freely, and I applaud all of the UK companies who have been supportive to their muslim employees during the month of Ramadan.

This year Preston City Council allowed all Mosques to make an amplified call to prayer to mark the end of Ramadan - simply wow ????. It didn’t stop there; Preston North End handed out food packs to the community outside mosques - despite days when it was cold and raining the Community Team still turned up to show support and solidarity. 

In return, I will reciprocate the support when restrictions are lifted at football grounds and will cheer you on at Deepdale Stadium. 

Some City’s in the UK marked their buildings in green lights at the start of Ramadan. Leeds City Council you were one of the first to lead this campaign - well done you ! Tower Bridge also witnessed the Islamic call of prayer - led by a Muezzin we call this daily ritual the Adhan.

UK has come a very long way in promoting diversity & equality! Its fair to say UK is leading the way for acceptance. This gives me so much hope for future generations - this is what the world needs to see.

This is what makes UK a great place to live and work. I would go as far as saying its one of the best countries in the WORLD to practice your faith without restrictions or repercussions so once again thank you for the kindness shown.

To all my Muslim connections; tag your employers, colleagues, neighbours etc and give them a special mention in the comments section if they too have been amazing to you during Ramadan. Lets thank them collectively. 

 As I bid farewell to the blessed month of Ramadan, I wish all my LinkedIn family Peace, Happiness, Prosperity & Good Health... ??

Thank you and as we say at the end of Ramadan;

??? ????? - Eid Mubarak.