Muslim New Year

Today marks the first day of Muharram, the month of the New Year for Muslims. It is a time, not of partying and celebration, but of fasting. Every cycle brings something new and takes something away, and although various traditions mark the New Year at various times, in reality each day marks the beginning and the end of something.

What is new for you today? Does this new thing feel more like a gift or a loss?

Eid Al-Adha

Eid Al-Adha, the Muslim “Feast of Sacrifice” is celebrated today. It marks the end of the hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael in obedience to God. The name “Islam” itself means “submission.”

Is there any principle or value that you are willing to offer yourself to completely, whatever sacrifice might be involved?