My heart has adopted every shape...I follow the religion of Love

I met a guy who, so far I like. When I explained that I couldn't come hang out because it was Ramadan he was quite understanding and mentioned that he'd broken fast with a Muslim friend of his. I explained, simply, that Ramadan was sort of like Christmas and Easter and Lent rolled into one. It's not super apt, but it isn't that far off if you're trying to explain the restrictive nature of Ramadan for the sake of God and the sort of jubilation that comes after.

In the way that it is very much like Christmas, however, is the implication that if you're not with family you must be some wretched soul. I've gotten no fewer than 10 emails in the last few days instructing people to come to a 'lonely' Eid celebration-- i.e. you lack preconceived indicators of happiness-- you must have something wrong with you.

 

I know that sounds harsh, but it's the exact same message that people who don't celebrate Christmas get. You're Jewish or Muslim on Christmas day? The smile falters and a hand stretches out to you, a "Oh, that's so sad that you can't celebrate..." or "Well, we don't want you to be alone. Come over!" I understand that these gestures have the best intentions and in this tradition, intention counts but COME ON.

I feel like I'm getting it from all ends. I'm single, childfree and estranged from my biological family-- so in no religion, in no cultural setting am I okay. I'm to be pitied and forced into a room with lonesome strangers for some sort of forced community bonding. No thanks.
I almost feel like bailing on my own, non-familial, Eid plans JUST TO SHOW THEM! Eh. IDK. Maybe I'm just cranky.

Ramadan ends tomorrow and my body is feeling the brunt of it. The lack of sleep, the lack of movement-- they all have taken a toll. Still, I'm trying to be gentle, gentle as the Prophet (SAW) would've been.