Prayers, greetings share message of peace, love

Dubai - Muslims today were reminded to stand strong and be good representatives of Islam

If Muslims held their true values of Islam, negative connotations associated with the religion will demolish, worshippers were told on Sunday.
Faithful offered Eid prayers at mosques and musallas across the country on Sunday morning.
Hundreds of families, including women and children, gathered at Sharjah's Al Noor Mosque to perform Eid prayers.
Smiles and greetings were exchanged as different nationalities stood side by side to mark the end of a month of fasting and the beginning of celebrations and summer vacations. Some residents went out of their way to give out sweets and delicacies in front of mosques to celebrate the occasion.
Standing in unity towards the direction of Kaaba, Muslims performed their prayers, after which they were reminded to stand strong and be good representatives of Islam.
The sermons reminded residents that the value of giving and helping those in need is one of Islam's pillars. If Muslims implemented these values, the true image of Islam will inevitably win amidst its current false connotations of terrorism and radicalism since it is the religion of love and peace.
Going back in history, Islam was welcomed across different countries and areas due to its principles of tolerance and kindness towards other religions. Worshippers were told that if the same concepts are to be followed now, Muslims will be welcomed in the world again.
The key, sermons said, is to start with oneself and be a good representative of Islam.
"There are two types of happiness for people fasting: the moment they break their fast, and the moment they meet God. And we have to make sure we did enough good to those around us and gave Islam its true image until we meet God," said the imam.
For some residents, Ramadan was a mental and physical break where they developed habits they will take with them for the rest of the year. For Mohammed Ibrahim, who attended the prayers with his wife and four-year-old daughter, his fasting was from things he struggled with. "Be it anger or frustration, these were habits I managed to curb during Ramadan and things I will take along with me."
Syrian Noor Sawaf said patience and the value of giving are the reminders that the holy month has given. "Ramadan gives you the chance to improve yourself and get in touch with your soul. We shouldn't be kind and helpful only during Ramadan. In fact, the month reminds you with these values that you have to be practicing," said Sawaf.
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com