Test of self-discipline

The morning sun was scorching as I stepped out of the house, and the heat fell on me like a heavy blanket.

It was the third week of Ramadan, and the hot weather made fasting an even greater challenge.

In the northern states of Penang, Kedah and Perlis, temperatures soared past 33°C and every step felt like a test of patience and resilience for those observing the fast.

I’ll admit, there were moments I thought of giving up and reaching for a glass of cold water.

For those unaware, it is an offence in Malaysia for Muslims to eat or drink in public during Ramadan.

In the privacy of one’s home, however, the decision is between us and God.

But my faith keeps me from giving in.

Still, the heat has pushed me close to the edge and I sympathise with my nine-year-old daughter, Azra Maryam Nuha.

She tried her best to complete her fast but gave up because of the intense heat.

Before Ramadan began, I had warned her about how hot the northern region can get during this time of year.

As Muslim parents, we are more lenient with children when it comes to fasting, as their growing bodies need more nourishment and rest compared to us adults.

So, I told her that fasting for even a few days is an achievement – for both her and me.

Currently, the northern region is experiencing the second phase of the northeast monsoon which brings dry conditions and sweltering heat.

At the same time, my heart goes out to Malaysians in Johor who recently had to deal with torrential rain and floods.

It’s remarkable how, even in a relatively small country like Malaysia, we experience such climatic diversity.

While the dry weather makes fasting harder for us in the north, it is this same climate that wards off agricultural pests.

This is a blessing for Penang’s durian and Harumanis mangoes that are flowering and budding.

The lack of rain ensures a good yield, and come May, the fruits will be ready for all to enjoy.

To cope with the dry spell, it’s important to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity and keep homes well-ventilated.

Fruits, vegetables and other hydrating foods are a must during sahur and buka puasa.

Fasting in tough conditions is more than a test of endurance – it’s a test of faith.

I remember an Islamic lecture where the ustaz said, “The harder the struggle, the greater the reward.”

The intentional abstinence of food and water during Ramadan is about strengthening self-discipline and patience, about self-improvement and spiritual fortitude.

When I was around my daughter’s age, I would rush home from school, stand in front of the fridge, and beg my mother to let me break my fast early.

She would calmly say: “We’re lucky to have food for buka puasa. Some Muslims around the world don’t even have that.”

That sentence made me reflect.

As I look ahead to the final days of Ramadan, I remind myself that each challenge is a chance to grow stronger in faith and gratitude.

Parenting today is very different from how our parents raised us.

I smile when my daughter gives us a defeated look while the rest of us continue fasting.

Parenting now comes with greater challenges – shielding our children from negative influences such as social media and guiding them through fasting in harsh weather.

But fasting can teach them gratitude and patience while instilling self-discipline, empathy and a deeper appreciation for the blessings they have.

It also strengthens both faith and resilience for whatever lies ahead.

Have a blessed Ramadan and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri.