“There’s a hidden sweetness in the stomach’s emptiness.
We are lutes, no more, no less. If the soundbox is stuffed full of anything, no music.
If the brain and the belly are burning clean with fasting, every moment a new song comes out of the fire.”
– Rumi
These words from the renowned poet Rumi capture the deep spiritual essence of Ramadan, a sacred time for Muslims around the world, including right here in Acton and Boxborough. For Muslims, Ramadan is much more than abstaining from food and drink — it is a month of renewal, reflection, and community. Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse both body and mind, fostering gratitude, compassion, and patience.
Each day, from dawn to dusk, Muslims fast — refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs — focusing instead on spiritual growth and self-discipline.
As the sun sets, the fast is broken with a meal known as iftar. These gatherings are often communal and highlight the spirit of togetherness. Here in Acton and Boxborough, the Acton-Boxborough Regional Islamic Community Center (ABRICC), now located at the Nagog Park Complex, welcomes the community for iftar dinners on Fridays, Saturdays, and some Sundays throughout the month. These meals are available to everyone, regardless of faith or whether or not they are fasting.
Following iftar, Muslims perform a special nightly prayer called Tarawih, where the imam, or religious leader, leads the congregation in prayer and recitation of the Quran. Over the course of the month, the aim is to complete the reading of the entire Quran, reinforcing its teachings and celebrating the miracle of its revelation.
Ramadan concludes after 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar calendar, with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. This celebration begins with a morning prayer, after which families and friends come together to celebrate. Gifts are exchanged, festive meals are shared, and gratitude is expressed for the blessings received and the perseverance shown during Ramadan.
This year, ABRICC will host a special Eid prayer and celebration, welcoming the entire Muslim community. Additionally, other local spaces such as Danny’s Place in Acton will host Eid Celebrations on March 31st.
For the Muslim residents of Acton and Boxborough, Ramadan is a deeply meaningful time — one that brings with it reflection, sacrifice, and ultimately, celebration. It is a reminder of the hidden sweetness in emptiness, and the beauty of community coming together in faith and gratitude.
Zayd Dhasthageer is a senior at Acton-Boxborough Regional High School and an avid trivia nerd.