Yaaay #Ramadhan is here! For those unaware, Ramadhan is a holy month in Islam where we fast. From a bit before sunrise to a bit after sunset. No food, no water. So why am I so excited?

Ramadhan is a time where many Muslims focus our thoughts and actions on God, patience and sacrifice. I'm a nerd for my religion, and very excited to spend this time well. But there's some things to keep in mind if you're non Muslim and have questions.

Not everyone is able to fast, either due to health conditions, menstruation, age, or a medication schedule. I'm one of those people. So don't 'call out' Muslims you see eating/drinking. We don't owe you our medical history.

Food brings people together, especially family. Not only is this difficult due to social distancing, but it's also hard for queer Muslims specifically. Many of us have been ostracised for who we are. Or are forced to remain in the closet for our own safety.

I miss waking up my loved ones to eat with me before the fast begins. Or praying together. At the end of Ramadhan, we celebrate Eid. It can be really painful if you're no longer able to celebrate like you used to. Just be mindful of this.

Please don't feel like you can't eat around us! We are looking at our attachments to worldly pleasures, and what it means to go without. You don't have to do any of that! Eat your crisps, seriously. It's much weirder when you make it a big deal.

I'm not an Islamic scholar, these are just my 2 cents on #Ramadan2020! So don't worry if your Muslim friend/colleague/loved one communicates a bit less during Ramadhan. We're just doing a lot of thinking, praying and napping :)