With the advent of Ramazan, we all witness a strange change of heart. Positive vibes seem to be in the air and we promise ourselves that from now on, we will be better human beings and, more than this, better Muslims.

By making Ramazan a month when fasting is obligatory for every adult Muslim, the Almighty, in His Benevolence, wants us to improve in every walk of life. He has nothing to do with our hunger or thirst, the main purpose of fasting is to learn lessons in obedience, punctuality, discipline and compassion. This is a month when we feel the urge to connect with Allah and the Holy Quran more. To err is human, but every year we are given a chance to repent for our bad deeds, and seek Allah’s guidance and help in doing good ones.

The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramazan out of faith and in hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” [Bukhari (38) and Muslim (759)]

How can we make the most of Ramazan? Unless we set goals for ourselves, we will not be able to benefit from this month and experience spiritual growth. Here are some goals which I advise you all to follow steadfastly, so that you fulfil Allah’s words, and, “you may become righteous.”

If anyone wants to change for the better, he must first be aware of his flaws. As Ramazan begins, sit in a quiet corner with a notebook and pen, and assess yourself honestly. Do a serious soul searching and note down the areas where you need to improve. Maybe, you do not offer Namaz five times daily, are rude to your parents/siblings, harsh on your helpers, waste money on unnecessary things or backbite often?

Write a reminder to yourself with clear instructions to give up these bad habits. Whether your flaws are related to Allah or your fellow human beings, promise yourself that you will emerge from this Ramazan as a much better person.

Every night when you lie down on your bed, quickly rewind the events of the day. Give yourself points on the areas where you have followed your good intentions. In the same way, you have to minus points if you have diverged from your resolves. If you scolded a helper on a petty mistake, talked back to your parents or were harsh on your younger siblings, you have to subtract points from those you have gained. Be honest to yourself and do not find excuses for a bad deed.

If you have positive points, congratulate yourself because it means that you are doing more good than........

© Dawn Young Magazine