The Joy of Eid

by Deanna Othman

It all began with a text message. The Mosque Foundation announced Eid ul-Fitr was to fall on Friday, September 10. Prayer at 9:30 am at Toyota Park. And of course, bring  your prayer rugs.

Eid ul-Fitr offered a much-needed joyous respite from the current storm of Islamophobia that seems to be enveloping our nation like a pernicious disease. From Quran-burning to mosque-trashing, Muslims have been burning under the all-too-harsh spotlight of the media.

Waking up for prayer on that sunny September morning, and witnessing the thousands of Muslims who poured into the lush, green field of Toyota Park, one could not help but be overcome by the power of Allah (SWT), Who has blessed our community with the ability to orchestrate an awe-inspiring event.

There was intense displays of interfaith solidarity as a group of 20 leaders from various religions gathered to deprecate the virulent hatred professed by Florida pastor Terry Jones. Before salah, Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan ensured Muslims they were not alone in being discriminated against, and called on us to have "belief and faith in the basic principles of this country."

Various attendees mentioned that looking out from the stands, the lines and lines of worshippers, bowing in unison on the green grass, under the shining sun, produced a feeling of optimism, hope and pride that is unparalleled. Adults contemplated the beauty of the moment; children tugged at their parents' sleeves, urging them to the play area, with carnival rides and vendors selling toys, nachos, and other treats.

While the traffic was maddening, as cars lined up on all streets leading to the Park, backed up for miles, it was a pleasant reminder of the sheer number of Muslims in the area, estimated to be between 15-17 thousand in attendance. The only saddening part of the experience was realizing the blessings of Ramadan had drawn to a close, and we would no longer be trekking to the masjid every evening at 9:30 p.m. for taraweeh. May Allah (SWT) grant us all the ability and health to fast next Ramadan, and to continuously reap the blessings of the past Ramadan throughout the year. Ameen.