Ramadan holds special memories
HAVING learnt about the Islamic religion and culture almost a decade ago, a Durban North woman decided to revert and has never looked back.
For 37-year-old attorney, Yolanda Celeste “Alhena” Akram, learning about the beautiful aspects of Islam has been just one of the highlights in her life and with Ramadan a day away, she shares her most cherished memories.
“One of my greatest wishes after marriage was to have a baby and more specifically a son. I recall during taraweeh (Ramadan prayers) on the 27th night of Ramadan, I made a special dua (supplication) to have a baby. It was exactly a month later that I received the good news that I was pregnant and gave birth to my son, Mohammed Mahir, in 2009.
“A year later, I made the same dua but this time for a daughter, so I could have my pair and I soon became pregnant again only for my girl Suha to be born in 2011,” she said.
Akram said she began her journey into Islam, while dating her now husband, Farhan. He taught her about the holy book, the Qur’an, and the prophets and messengers in Islam.
“I found it all very interesting, so when he proposed to me in early 2008 and asked me if I would like to revert, as he saw my interest and the love I had developing for the religion, I made the decision to do so.
“However, he never forced but encouraged me to go to the madressa and listen to other people speak about their journey into joining the faith. I was keen and decided to visit the Islamic Guidance Centre in Overport,” she said. Akram added that although she initially felt out of place, she soon adapted.
“At first I felt awkward and intimidated being someone completely new to the religion.
“However my fears soon changed to happiness and completion as everyone made me feel welcome.”
Reflecting on the spiritual and fasting month ahead, Akram said: “It is a time to show compassion towards others and perform good deeds.”