The long-awaited, auspicious month of Ramadan is upon us; a blessing in which many Muslims around the world fast, pray and endeavour to purify their souls.

Not only is fasting one of the five core obligations to a Muslim, but it also does well in serving as a reminder that there are many others out there that are less fortunate than ourselves, who live amongst poverty and starvation as normalcy and not just during this month of fasting.

This is a harsh reality for many around the world, and one that is extremely difficult to comprehend for those currently reading this.

Along with the month of Ramadhaan, comes the excitement of the impending day of Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the month of Ramadaan, in celebration of successfully completing such a privileged month of fasting and worship.

Meanwhile, while many people are amidst the Eid shopping rush and usual gift wrapping chaos, we forget that there are also many people across the lengths & breadths of South Africa who have completed the month of Ramadan with no celebration and festivities to look forward to at the end of it.

For many, they do not feel the enjoyment of the occasion of Eid, the gifts or clothes that come with it, and nor do they feel the love of a close-knit family. In this time, let’s look inside the heart of the less privileged.

With charitable organisations such as the Muslim Association of South Africa, you can gift a person and bring joy to their day.

Contribute to the Muslim Association of South Africa’s Share The Gift’s Campaign and bring a smile to someone’s face; after all, we are one.

An appeal: let’s wear the best clothes not new clothes this Eid. Say no to Eid shopping this year, instead: assist the Muslim Association of South Africa in its Share The Gifts campaign.

From all of us here at the Muslim Association of South Africa, Taqabalallahu Wa Minna Wa Minkum, may Allah SWT accept this auspicious month and may you have a blessed Eid-ul-Fitr amongst your loved ones.