My Ramadan: Woman finds time for family to strengthen bonds

Lubna Sohraab, a 23-year-old Pakistani public relations executive, is observing her second Ramadan in Dubai.

Lubna Sohraab says she tries to maintain the same level of productivity during Ramadan. Sarah Dea / The National

DUBAI // Ramadan provides a unique opportunity for family members to come together and strengthen their bonds.

But for Lubna Sohraab, a 23-year-old Pakistani public-relations executive, it is particularly special.

Ms Sohraab, born in Dubai, is observing her second holy month in the city. She returned to the emirate from Oman to attend university in 2010, and has been living and working here since.

“The highlight of the month is focusing on close family ties,” said Ms Sohraab, who spent summers and Ramadan in Oman, where her family previously lived.

“Every day of the month, we sit together as a family to have a meal, which is impossible at any other time of the year.”

All her favourite Ramadan memories involve her parents and 15-year-old sister, Anusha.

“We can be a busy bunch, running around doing our own thing for most of the year,” she said. “But when Ramadan comes around, we know it’s time to think less about us as individuals and more about all of us as one. My mother makes sure of that.”

Ramadan is a month of prayer and reflection. The fasting forces one to slow down and take into account every blessing.

“Fasting teaches people about the plight of the less fortunate and reminds us how strong we can really be when we put our hearts and minds into something,” she said. “If we can refrain from food, water and bad habits from dawn to dusk for a month, other life issues should be a piece of cake.”

Ms Sohraab attended a Christian high school, where fasting Muslims were in minority.

“Growing up in an atmosphere where everyone else is going about their day as usual, and just you and a few others are fasting, can really help build willpower and tolerance,” she said. “I am really grateful for that experience. I’ve even had volleyball practice under the sun while fasting.”

In her professional life, she tries to maintain the same level of productivity.

“Staying at home and sleeping all day defeats the purpose and spirit of the holy month,” she said. “I try my best to go about my routine as usual, and not let the fasting interrupt my daily tasks too much. But I also make sure I know when to stop so I can get home early, help out with the iftar preparations, and get extra praying time in.”

Ramadan, she said, is like a reset button. “We’re getting the chance to cleanse our body, our mind and soul, so we should try to make the most of it.”