The Netherlands has long been known as the European multicultural and
liberal gateway. As Europe’s growing immigrant populations spark
debate over culture, religion and nationalism, so too does it inspire
multiculturalism and understanding. Ramadan is the largest challenge of
the year for Muslim athletes living in non-Muslim nations as they must
cope with being match-fit while abstaining from rehydrating and eating
during the day.
I am a football referee and to keep up
with the matches I must be in top shape. I train every week, and
Ramadan is in itself also a form of training. This month gives me the
strength I need to do well in life, except it is up to me to follow the
‘training’ properly.
My family and I came to Holland
after fleeing Afghanistan in 1998, I was ten. The biggest difference I
can remember is that back home fasting in Afghanistan is as common and
prevalent as Christmas is in the West. Whether you are on the bus,
visiting someone or just walking outside, everyone around you is
participating in the fast. This actually makes it easier because you
are not constantly reminded of it. Having everyone around you eat and
drink all the time is such a temptation, which makes it much harder for
me, but it also sharpens your resolve and strengthens you mentally.
There
are so many Muslims here in Holland that people are generally aware of
Ramadan. With my work and schooling, the Dutch are very respectful
about the whole thing. The fact that I am fasting is taken into
consideration and it shows they respect us. To me Ramadan is not that
time of year where you simply cannot eat or drink during the day.
Ramadan is the engine that drives you through the next 11 months, that
gives you the will-power to resist temptations and succeed throughout
the rest of the year.
Read more: Ramadan Chronicles: Netherlands - Daily News Egypt
