Irshad Ansari: "Even those who have a misconception ..."

Engineer Irshad Ansari is among many Muslim professionals who are finding their Ramadan experiences have shifted from awkwardness among co-workers — to opportunities for a little cross-cultural education among friends. Here are Irshad’s words:

I work as an engineer in the Defense Department. I can tell you that the perception of Muslims has changed after 9/11 because a lot of people have not been given the right message of Islam.
   I work with a lot of non-Muslims. It’s a challenge for Muslims in this country to tell somebody exactly what Islam stands for. Being from India and being fluent in different languages, I have not only taught but also shown the actual truth to non-Muslims who work with me.
   When Ramadan comes, the Defense Department recognizes that month. People I work with know that I can’t go to lunch that day because I’m fasting. I am able to educate others about Islam and what Ramadan stands for.
   It’s not just about food and water, but abstaining from the luxuries of life.
   I remember my first Ramadan at work, and they used to ask me if I wanted to go to lunch. I would say no, I’m fasting.
   Then they would ask me what fasting is. It gives me an opportunity to explain that I am Muslim and this is Ramadan. When they hear this, they have so much respect. Even those who have drawn a misconception about Islam have a sympathetic ear.
   Now, they know when Ramadan comes: Irshad is fasting.

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