Selamat Hari Raya!

Syawal is most likely one of my favourite times of the year. I love having a good excuse to have raya reunions, shamelessly eating kuih raya at my relatives’ houses, make some tiktok videos with the family while you realize you are downright awful at it, having nasi himpit and rendang for breakfast, lunch and dinner; I have a profound affinity towards all things raya, except for mercun but that’s just because I’m personally not a huge fan of loud explosive sounds especially when it’s played non-stop.

Doesn’t exactly negate the fact that raya brings out the most festive side of everyone and it’s a celebration that can be enjoyed irregardless of socioeconomic standings. I’m exceptionally glad to see everybody celebrating raya cheerfully despite the fact that everybody is praising it humbly. But it’s complete and impeccable.

Of course, this Syawal is far different from previous ones especially since I spent the entirety of Ramadan within the confinements of my own house. My favourite part of Ramadan used to be iftar at my Mama’s because that’s the time where the entire extended family would berbuka together on the floor of some sorts and Mama would always make the extra effort to cook everyone’s favourite dishes.

This Ramadan really has been so wonderful for me alhamdullilah. The beyond couple of years have not been this way. I’ve been through some difficult and disappointing situations. As part of my spiritual journey, this has taught me that not every Ramadan will be pleasant. Lessons can also be learned from the lows. Trust that He will judge you fairly and kindly.

Ramadan begun for me at the comforts of home and I am thrilled that it’s ending at home too, but the events of Ramadan at Maktab has never been a boring affair either. My favourite part of Ramadan this year was the time spent with my family and all the dining table conversations we have, even the drowsy, sleep-induced ones during sahur.

Time really flies, it seems. But Eid Mubarak, nonetheless! I thoroughly apologise for all the mistakes I have done, whether I meant it or not, and I hope everyone has a safe trip back to their kampung. Laters!