I remember when the UBISOC Community Iftar in the Green Heart was just an idea that we were discussing on the table in one of our meetings. That’s how it started, an idea, but who would have thought that it would be arguably one of the biggest events ever held by a student group.
But what gave rise to such a spectacle was the hard work and dedication of every single volunteer. The work began over 2 months before the event and not a single day went by where the group chat was silent on community Iftar. The enthusiasm and excitement amongst my dearest friends were one of the many blessings I received this Ramadan.
However, this would be the last event I would be a part of as a student of this university, which although the prospect of graduating seemed exiting, the notion that this part of my life was gone was saddening to say the least. In the end I am glad to say, that this event was all I could have hoped for.
The atmosphere on the day was beautiful we had people from all different walks of life come together and celebrate as one big family. So many things come into mind about that day; fairy lights and Moroccan lanterns lit the green heart as the darkness of the night approached, the vast variety of food that represented the different cultures that are part of Birmingham, and most important of all was our guests.
The memory that I will treasure of this community Iftar will forever be the smiles and laughter on the faces of every single one of our guests. It reminded me of another saying of the prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him: “None of you will have faith until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself”.
For Muslims, iftar is one of the most beautiful blessings of the month of Ramadan. It is the meal in which Muslims break their fast with their family and enjoy the company of those we love.
However, what we must not forget is our fellow non-Muslim brothers and sisters in humanity. The message of the prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – is one that encompasses all of humanity. This was the fuel that powered the Islamic society’s efforts that culminated in what was the Community Iftar.
And I would like to end this post, by Praising Allah who had granted us ease in this endeavour.
Sayf Khan
June 2019
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