Abu Ayub narrated that
the Messenger of Allah said: “Whoever fasts Ramadan, then follows it with six from Shawwal, then that is (equal in reward) to fasting everyday.”
Alhamdulillah, today marks 4 of 6… My neighbors mostly think I’m crazy, and Alhamdulillah it feels great to continue the fast, to continue seeking Allah’s pleasure, to continue remembering Him with the entire body, and not just with the tongue or the brain.
Alhamdulillah, the fast remains (mostly) easy, though it’s obvious that the devils are unchained: I’ve had mornings where I wanted to give up; I’ve felt the waswasa during interactions with various brothers; concentration during Salat has become more difficult. Alhamdulillah, with a bit of will and a bit of focus, I’ve sustained the fast, ignored the whispers, and attempted to right my Salat, and InshaAllah I’ll continue the fast for just two and a half more days, before moving to Monday/Thursday sunnah fasts.
In the physical realm, I’m thinner than I’ve been in 15+ years and starting to work out a tiny bit again. InshaAllah I can keep the working out and eating right up, and treat this body that Allah has given me better. I’ve done so much to it over the years and I really need to straighten up and treat myself a bit better.
In the emotional realm, I’m feeling good, reasonably content, energetic (mostly, and given sufficient nap time and some physical exertion), and sleeping well: Alhamdulillah.
If you fasted the month of Ramadan, and you haven’t started on your six days of Shawwal yet, get on it! It’s only going to get harder the longer you wait, and InshaAllah there’s reward in it, both in this life, and in the next.
Ya Allah, accept our fasting and our prayers, and guide us to be better servants every day!
