Tips for the holy month

Ali Alsaloom's Ramada fast facts for August 31, 2009.

Here's how to avoid embarrassing moments with your Muslim colleagues during Ramadan: Greet your Muslim friends or business connections with: "Ramadan Mubarak." Note that this greeting, which means "Blessed Ramadan," is different from the "Ramadan Kareem" you see on greeting cards and store signs. Understand that Ramadan is the most special month on a Muslim's calendar. Avoid serving lunch or snacks at any meeting. Also try not to schedule anything past 5pm, as our minds (and stomachs) are focused on preparing for iftar. It is common to take vacation during the last week of Ramadan. The first day of Eid is a holiday.

If you are invited to share iftar, try to make it, or even better, host your own iftar party. It will be fun. If you invite people over, remember to keep your Tupac or Elton John at a low volume. It would be acceptable to play spiritual music, but the point is that nothing is more appreciated than a calm atmosphere with a bit of chit chat - except of course, good food and drink.