Ramadan

Today is the start of the Holy Islamic month of Ramadan. During this month, almost a quarter of the world's population will begin to fast for 30 days.

For the 1.2 billion Muslims in the world, today begins a religious practice that has been observed for over 1400 years.

Since the birth of Islam, the physical world around us has changed enormously. However, on a spiritual level, it remains very similar.

As individuals, we still share the same yearning for truth, for love, for acceptance, for acknowledgment and for appreciation as our forefathers did so many years ago. As individuals, we have changed very little.

Ramadan is a perfect opportunity to reflect on who we are. It is the perfect opportunity to realise that whether you are rich or poor, fed or hungry, you will still remain the same. Situations may change, but you will always remain as you are.

It is no accident that the worlds' greatest religions were born in the most desolate places. When there was nothing to observe externally, one was forced to look inside and find a deeper meaning, a deeper truth and a deeper faith.

Many people see Ramadan as a month of sacrifice in which much has to be given up. In truth, it is an opportunity to look deep within and to quench your appetite with self-knowledge and realisation. By focusing less on what is happening around you, it naturally follows that you will begin to look within.

The concept of abstinence and fasting is one that is observed in many religions. There are many reasons why fasting is so important. Firstly, by fasting, you realise just how fortunate you are and how much you take for granted. Secondly, you begin to appreciate the plight of the poor and the hungry and, in doing so, become more generous to good causes. The most important reason, however, is that by fasting, you develop aspects of your personality that are otherwise left untouched. You develop willpower, spirituality, generosity and faith. Many people see fasting as a time when they are forced to give up many things. In truth, it is an opportunity to find things that otherwise would be left undeveloped.