As the month of Ramadan edges closer to our hearts, it is a good time to start thinking about setting intentions that will allow you to make the most of this month. Be mindful to not overwhelm yourself with trying to achieve or feel a certain way during Ramadan. You may be already doing a great service to yourself and those around you without acknowledging it. By growing new life inside, you have set intention to nourish their soul and bring life into this world. By feeding your children and guiding them, you have set intention to care for them.
But what if you are seeking more from the energy around you and your relationship with Allah?
Setting intention is the starting point of every act that we desire to contribute into our lives. It can be as simple as picking up the phone and checking in with a loved one. An intention is a directed impulse of consciousness that contains the seed form that which we aim to create. Just like seeds, we must release our intentions into the depths of our consciousness so that they grow and flourish.
- The first step of setting an intention is to acknowledge the gap within you that you are trying to fill. The best way to be present in this gap is to give yourself time away from the noisy dialogue of the world and think about what it is that you are trying to achieve. This will take you into silence and stillness of pure consciousness. This is the perfect place to plant the seed of intention.
- Intention is much more powerful when it comes from a place of contentment than if it arises from a sense of need. Stay centred and make your intentions simple and achievable. Allah knows what lies in the deepest realms of our hearts, even if we do not know the timing or the details of what will happen.
- Remember that acts of worship can take place in many forms. Besides the pillar of our faith that is our salah, there are also many ways to create a harmonious feeling during this time. This could be looking into a charity you want to support or helping an elderly neighbour.
- Once you have centred what your intention will be it is best to release this and return to it each day to remind yourself. Relinquish your rigid attachment to a specific result and live in the wisdom of uncertainty. Attachment is based on fear and insecurity, while detachment is based on the unquestioning belief or tawwakul that Allah has the infinite power to orchestrate what is best. This will help you look beyond just the month of Ramadan.
Now that you have released your intentions into the fertile ground of pure potentiality, it will bloom when the season is right.