July 10:
Ahlan wa sahlan, wa Ramadan mubarak! (Welcome friends, and Happy Ramadan!)
My name is Marissa Parra. I go to school in Washington D.C., I live in Baltimore, and I'm a Latina Buddhist celebrating my first Ramadan this year.
Yes, you read that correctly. What can I say! I enjoy breaking boundaries and defying stereotypes. I'm a strong believer in the power of communication, so allow me to share with you the reasons behind my decision and hopefully inspire some of you.
I am an aspiring broadcast journalist with a passion for foreign affairs, and I have always been particularly drawn to the Middle East. The religion of Islam is so often heavily misunderstood here in the United States, and it's frustrating to witness.
People fear what they don't understand. Misunderstanding stems from ignorance, and the only way to fight ignorance is with knowledge. Gandhi said to be the change you wish to see in the world, so this is me being a part of the solution in eradicating false perceptions of Islam.
Contrary to popular American belief, Ramadan is not about just starving yourself and avoiding water. It's far more than that. Ramadan is a time for deep reflection and overall self-improvement, and you don't need to be Muslim to reap those benefits.
I am so excited for the start of Ramadan tonight. Without a doubt it will be a challenging but unforgettable experience, and I invite Muslims and non-Muslims alike to join me on my journey. I will be posting an update twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays so keep an eye out for me.
If you have any advice for a Ramadan first-timer, please share! Any and all tips are welcome. I will certainly be needing all the help I can get :)
Kul 'am wa inta bekhair! (May you be well every year!)
Yours,
Marissa
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