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30 for 30: Taraweeh Reflections Day 29

Day 29. Subhanallah, Ramadan's end is upon us, and today's reflection revolves around the concept of willpower, a muscle strengthened with each passing day of this holy month. Ramadan has been a training ground, pushing me to exert my will not just in abstaining from food and drink but in cultivating positive habits and breaking free from negative patterns.

Look at me, for example, 29 days of reflections, a feat I wouldn't have dreamt of attempting before Ramadan. This daily commitment, initially daunting, has become a testament to the unwavering spirit nurtured by fasting, prayer, and introspection. The power to resist distractions, silence the voice of procrastination, and pour my heart out onto these pages each night is a direct result of the discipline honed during this month.

Ramadan has shown me that willpower is not an innate trait that only a select few have but a muscle that grows stronger with regular exercise. Each day, as I resist the urge to indulge in mindless scrolling or give in to negative self-talk, I feel my willpower growing.

As I skedaddled my way from the masjid to this kitchen table to write down my reflections every night, I realized this was not just about maintaining a streak or fulfilling a self-imposed obligation. It was about tapping into that energy of Ramadan to build a habit rooted in the pursuit of knowledge, self-awareness, and connection with my lord.

As I bid farewell to this Ramadan, I carry the lessons learned through this journey of self-discovery. The willpower built during this month is not just a temporary boost but a lasting transformation, a guiding force that will continue to shape my choices and actions long after the final iftar tomorrow.

So, as we step into the light of Eid, I know there will be challenges ahead, moments when my drive will weaken, and Shaytan will be working overtime to catch up for time missed during Ramadan. But with the lessons learned during this month, I am confident that I can tap into my willpower, rise above fleeting desires, and continue on the path of growth and righteousness. May we emerge from this Ramadan not just as better Muslims but as better humans, committed to a lifetime of growth, giving, and grounding ourselves in the beautiful teachings of our faith. Ameen.