Scene 1: A Conversation About Missed Fasts
Maryam sat on the living room sofa, a warm cup of tea in her hands, feeling much stronger and healthier after her days of rest. The gentle hum of the ceiling fan filled the quiet space as Ayesha sat beside her, folding a small pile of freshly laundered clothes.
"Ayesha," Maryam began hesitantly, "I've been thinking a lot about the five days I missed during Ramadan because of my illness."
Ayesha glanced up, her expression kind. "I knew this would be on your mind. What's bothering you, Maryam?"
Maryam sighed, setting her cup on the table. "I feel guilty. I wanted to fast all of Ramadan, but I couldn't. It feels like I've failed in my devotion."
Ayesha shook her head gently. "No, Maryam. You haven't failed at all. In fact, your intention was pure, and Allah knows what's in our hearts."
"But how do I make up for these missed fasts?" Maryam asked, concern evident in her voice.
Ayesha smiled and reached for the Quran that lay on the table. She flipped through the pages before stopping at a verse.
"In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184), Allah says:
'And for those who are ill or on a journey, the same number of missed days should be made up later.'
"This means that whenever you're healthy again, you can fast for the five days you missed, and it will be counted the same as if you had fasted in Ramadan."
Maryam listened carefully, nodding as she absorbed Ayesha's words. "That makes sense. But what if someone is unable to fast at all due to long-term illness?"
Ayesha pointed to another verse. "In that case, Allah has given an alternative. The person should feed a poor person for each missed fast as a form of compensation, which is called fidya."
Maryam exhaled, a sense of relief washing over her. "SubhanAllah… Islam is truly a religion of mercy. It doesn't force hardship upon us."
Ayesha nodded. "Exactly. It's about devotion, but also about understanding our limitations and trusting in Allah's wisdom."
Maryam smiled. "Thank you, Ayesha. This has been weighing on my heart, but now I feel at peace."
Ayesha patted her hand. "That's what sisters are for."
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Scene 2: Preparing for Suhoor
The next morning, before the crack of dawn, Maryam woke up feeling refreshed. She stretched and glanced at the clock—3:30 AM. Time for Suhoor.
She made her way to the kitchen, where she found Ayesha already busy preparing the meal.
Ayesha turned, surprised. "Maryam! You should be resting."
Maryam grinned. "I feel perfectly fine, Alhamdulillah. And I want to help."
Ayesha hesitated but then nodded. "Alright, but no overworking yourself. Here, stir this while I prepare the eggs."
Maryam took the spoon and began stirring the pot of warm milk and dates. The smell of freshly cooked parathas filled the air, making the early morning feel cozy and blessed.
As they worked together, Ayesha glanced at Maryam. "Are you sure you're ready to fast today?"
Maryam smiled confidently. "Yes. I'm completely fine now, and I want to make the most of Ramadan. Today, I will complete my fast with gratitude."
Ayesha's eyes softened. "MashaAllah, I love your dedication."
Soon, the meal was ready. Ubaid and the kids joined them at the dining table, their sleepy eyes filled with excitement.
As they sat together, Maryam felt a deep sense of gratitude. She had learned so much over the past few days—not just about fasting, but about faith, resilience, and Allah's mercy.
As the adhan for Fajr echoed through the quiet morning, she took her last sip of water and whispered a silent prayer of gratitude.
She was back on track, stronger and more devoted than ever.