When American Muslims celebrate “Eid,” the end of Ramadan, they observe the same religious and cultural traditions familiar to other faiths: Prayers, family reunions, sharing feasts, and a last-minute shopping rush. For Najwa Hadous, mother of four, that means toiling around town shopping for gifts and in the kitchen preparing for one of the biggest days on the Islamic calendar. Here’s her story, in her own words.

To me, Ramadan is a cleansing approach for body and sole. The personal benefits of this month outweigh the feelings of hunger and fatigue by the end of each day. And the benefits I gain after, strengthens my relationships and makes me a better person, as it helps me redevelop my attitude and revitalize my spirit. It forces me to pay attention and be in control again as God had intended it to be by distancing ourselves from undesired temptations. Ramadan helps me restore my faith in humanity again. That’s what I await each year, experience and look forward to during this holy month.
 
As many others, I’m a married woman, husband, four grown kids (3 boys and a girl) family responsibilities that goes beyond my immediate household and a demanding full time job. My day during Ramadan begins at 4:50 in the morning and ends around midnight. I’m smiling as I say this; talk about exhaustion. Let me tell you, after we break fast and clean up, I’m so tired I couldn’t move a muscle, by this time my coffee is ready and waiting for me, I let my body rest while I’m enjoying a cup of coffee, I finish my prayers after, then I’m ready to go at it again! How? It’s all in the manner we take things, and my trust in God.  
 
One week before the holiday, I begin to get my home in order, bring out special dishes, trays for sweets, table cloth, glasses and coffee cups. Then, I begin to put a list together to buy gifts, toys, chocolates, and tradition and nontraditional Arabic sweets.
 
Two days before the (Eid) holiday, I shop for food, special drinks (fresh fruit juices) and coffee.
 
One day before the Eid, I begin to organize a special meal for the holiday that consists of appetizers, salad, but the main dish is always leg of lamb with rice and nuts, and Mulukhieh (a Lebanese dish made from a spinach-like plant).
 
On the day of the holiday, I get up early with my kids; we wear new clothes and proceed to the mosque. Once there we pay “Futrah” and Salat El-Eid then I get together with family, friends and acquaintances to congratulate each other for this blessed day. Then I gather with my brothers and sisters and their families to have breakfast and coffee together and exchange gifts. Next we visit other family members starting with the elderly and folks who had recently lost loved ones.
 
The day of the Eid is the longest day for me, but it’s the most joyous because I feel special, surrounded with love and bliss. No wonder I’m already excited thinking about it! “Kul aam wa antum be-kheir” it translates to “May the return of this day come again to all of you with blessing” *