The first day of Ramadan

The day before Ramadan has always been spent preparing for the month ahead. Every year past, it's been planning for what to eat for the morning meal. And drinking lots of water the days before to keep the body hydrated for as long as possible. Last year, i even told myself I'll go buy my Raya outfit the first weekend of Ramadan; every year had been a rush at the end, cramming with everyone (and their in-laws) just to find something suitable - of course last year was no different.

Ramadan sort of crept up on me this year. Oh, I was aware it was coming, and vaguely knew which day it would start. But there was hardly any planning involved. Maybe it's because I'm less spiritual these days, maybe it's because I've got my family next to me this time. Maybe it's also because I'm in a better state of health too.

Whatever it was, the first day did not go well. The fasting month is always characterized by a lack of sleep. I'll get up half groggy for the morning meal, and go back to sleep. Sleep interrupted is no sleep. The lack of sleep (without fail) would trigger a migraine attack. Today, the lack of sleep was amplified by my having to catch a morning flight to KL. Even though I crashed out on the plane, sleep interrupted is no sleep. The migraine came a calling in the afternoon; I'm glad for my fitness because the migraine's effect got blunted and it only became a horrible headache. Nisa says the travelling compounded the problem.

God tells you something everyday and today, God said I had to not rely on my fitness and give the holy month it's due. Sleep adequately and live the proper life. The headache is a sign that no matter the physical shape i'm in, it is not sufficient if the fasting month is not given it's due. And by observing the month, I renew, cleanse and re-establish communion.