After Ramadan, This is What’s Next To Do…

So glorify the praises of your Lord and be of those who prostrate themselves (to Him). And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the certainty (i.e. death). — Qur’an 15[Al-Hijr]:98–99

Photo by Arun Anoop on Unsplash

The blessed month of Ramadan has come and gone. To many, it’s in fact, one of the fastest periods of the year maybe because of the fasting. Within the twinkle of an eye, Ramadan is no longer with us. I recall a time like this the previous year a similar piece was published on mindfulness after Ramadan. Here we are again thinking consciously on how to be consistent and steadfast in executing good deeds.

Let me tell you one simple truth: the key to Consistency is Steadfastness. Do not be sad that you're losing track of the good deeds you’ve successfully established in Ramadan. Also, hyperactivity will get you overwhelmed which will make it hard for you to continue. The best is to strike a balance by being consistent even with a little effort no matter how small. Moderation is very important, and you should never overburden yourself, as the Prophet peace be upon him said:

“Do such deeds as you can do easily, as Allah will not get tired (of giving rewards) until you get bored and tired (of performing religious deeds).” — [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

I remind myself and you to keep up with good conducts after the blessed month. The reward for good deeds is being able to execute more good. Here are a few suggested routines:

1. Make up your missed fast from Ramadan if you have any.
2. Follow up your completed Ramadan with six more days in Shawwal.
3. Revive your Tarawiy spirit with Qiyamu Layl. The Prophet upon him is peace used to observe eleven raka’t with witr. If you can’t match that, at least do two followed by a unit of witr.
4. Dedicate time daily for reciting the Qur’an. If you can’t read Arabic, then listen. Reading the interpretation of the meaning and implementing is also germane.
5. Keep the charity flowing. Feed the poor, help the needy, support the orphan and wayfarer. These people need our help more beyond Ramadan.
6. Engage in a lot of dhikr. The morning and evening supplication, other invocations related to daily activities.
7. Uphold the sunnah fasting of Mondays and Thursdays. Otherwise, fast at least three days in the lunar month: 13th, 14th and 15th.
8. Build your schedules around the five daily prayers. Be fervent in dua’ and trust Allah is the All-Hearing, the One Who is Able to Do all things.
9. Constantly seek forgiveness from Allah through repentance.
10. Always keep the company of righteous people.

I hope these few lines turn beneficial. It’s a reminder for me first and I pray it profits you as well. May Allah grant us satisfaction in all ramifications and make our final abode Janatul Firdaus. Ameen! Success comes with the help of Allah.

Yaumul Jumah, 18th Shawwal 1440H // Friday 21st June 2019.