Stop and start

First day of Ramadhan was very challenging for me. It wasn't about having no food or water. It's just work :) so while it's no biggie, it's a challenge still. I couldn't leave the office until 6.45pm because of a video conference meeting. By the time we wrapped up, I was on the verge of tears as I knew I would not be able to eat with the family on our first iftar. So today, I am taking charge and will leave the office at 3pm, in time for my last conference call of the day at 5.00pm and there shall be no rushing home during peak, mad traffic caused by insane drivers.

I got home finally close to 8pm, wolfed down my meal and got ready for Maghrib, Isha' and tarawih with people that matter to me, alhamdulillah.

While I was dealing with a difficult work yesterday though, I did get some respite from Sara. She was "fasting". She ate breakfast but was resolved to skip lunch. I told her she didn't have to do it, but she's got it all sorted out in her mind. Until 11.30am. That was when I got a call from her.

Sara: I'm fasting today, mummy.
Me: Wow, I'm impressed!
Sara: I'm proud of me, too. But I have to tell you a secret. I am hungry now.
Me: Hmmm, okay then have something to eat?
Sara: But I'm fasting!
Me: Ookay, can you hold off for a bit more?
Sara: But I'm hungry!
Me: Then eat something, sweetie.
Sara: But I want to fast.
Me: Tell you what, you eat something and then resume fasting ok?
Sara: Good idea, mummy. Byee!

Not probably the most accurate way of teaching fasting but hey, the stop and start idea is a good compromise for a 5-year old, I think.