Covid-19 Eid Will Be a Story to Tell

23 May, 2020
Q I am very frustrated and can’t accept that this Eid will be different due to the lock down.

Also I was planning a social distance gathering but the pandemic around scares me.

What should I do?

Answer


In this counseling answer:

We can spend time reflecting upon our relationship with Allah and strengthening it.

Ramadan was very different and Eid will definitely be different.

Insha’Allah next Eid we will remember this experience and be so grateful to be together. 

 You may wish to follow the recommendations for social distancing, wearing masks, as well as using sanitizer. 

Also we will emerge with a stronger resolve to strive to be better Muslims.


Assalam alaykum,

Thank you for writing to us.

I understand how you feel regarding Eid and how it will be different due to the lockdown. For most of us this is something we have never experienced and especially during Ramadan. 

Times for Reflection

Perhaps this is a time that we need to draw closer to Allah as well as our families. During this time of lockdown, it offers us quieter times. We can spend time reflecting upon our relationship with Allah and strengthening it.

Covid-19 Eid Will Be a Story to Tell - About Islam

Ramadan and Eid

Ramadan was very different and Eid will definitely be different. As Muslims Eid is one of our most sacred and happiest holidays.

Therefore, we cannot help but feel sad that we will not be able to congregate with our families, friends, brothers and sisters and celebrate Eid as we have in the past. However, there can be a blessing in this and new lessons. 

Lessons and Blessings

Insha’Allah next Eid we will remember this experience and be so grateful to be together. Perhaps our hearts will be softer and more compassionate for our sisters and brothers who live in war zones, under occupations, and fear for their lives on a daily basis.

Often times as humans we can take things for granted. I can imagine that a few months ago no one imagined or thought that we would be doing Ramadan in isolation and most certainly didn’t think that Eid would be celebrated alone. However here we are. 


Check out this counseling video:


Social Gathering for Eid

You stated that you were planning a social distance gathering for Eid but because of the pandemic you are scared. Insha’Allah please check with your local, county, or state laws regarding gatherings as they are different laws for different places.

You may wish to follow the recommendations for social distancing, wearing masks, as well as using sanitizer. 

Conclusion

As we can see nothing is guaranteed in life.  This maybe looked at as sort of test and trial that we must get through. Insha’Allah when the pandemic has washed away, we will emerge as more compassionate, loving, human beings. We will also emerge with a stronger resolve to strive to be better Muslims.

This is a time for all of us to strengthen our relationship with Allah and each other as an ummah in the way of kindness, concern, and charity. Regarding your gathering, if you are extremely uncomfortable I would suggest not having it and waiting.

However, if you are able to feel comfortable, make duaa to Allah and follow the recommendations for small gatherings. May your Eid be happy and blessed.

Salam,

***

Disclaimer: The conceptualization and recommendations stated in this response are very general and purely based on the limited information provided in the question. In no event shall AboutIslam, its counselors or employees are liable for any damages that may arise from your decision in the use of our services.

Read more:

https://aboutislam.net/reading-islam/living-islam/will-you-let-the-coronavirus-spoil-eid-al-fitr-2020/

https://aboutislam.net/muslim-issues/world/when-is-your-eid-al-fitr-1441/

https://aboutislam.net/reading-islam/finding-peace/remembering-allah/3-life-changing-supplications-dua-action-points/

About Aisha Mohammad
Aisha received her PhD in psychology in 2000 and an MS in public health in 2009. Aisha worked as a Counselor/Psychologist for 12 years for Geneva B. Scruggs Community Health Care Center in New York. Aisha specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marriage/relationships issues, as well as community-cultural dynamics. She is certified in Restorative Justice/ Healing Circles, Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and is also a certified Life Coach. Aisha works at a Family Resource Center, and has a part-time practice in which she integrates healing and spirituality using a holistic approach. Aisha plans to open a holistic care counseling center for Muslims and others in the New York area in the future, in sha' Allah. Aisha is also a part of several organizations that advocate for social & food justice. In her spare time she enjoys her family, martial arts classes, Islamic studies as well as working on her book and spoken word projects.