Ramadan Feels Different This Year and I'm Struggling
Assalamu alaikum, everyone. This Ramadan has been a real test for me, and honestly, I feel like I'm falling short. I just moved back home after being away for eight years. All those previous Ramadans, I was by myself. Sure, it got lonely sometimes, but spiritually, I was in a really good place, alhamdulillah. Cooking was easy since it was just for me, so I kept things simple and could focus more on ibadah. I'd listen to Islamic talks while making food, and after iftar, I was always trying to learn more-watching videos or reading. This year is totally different. I'm living with some extended family now, so we're cooking for everyone. We keep the meals simple, but if I don't help in the kitchen, it's just my mum doing it all after her own day. On top of that, the house is often filled with arguments, which adds so much stress. I come home from work already tired, then I'm in the kitchen helping out. By the time iftar is over, I'm completely exhausted-I've even missed taraweeh prayers. When I was living alone, no matter how tired I got, I never missed any prayers, sunnah or fard. I feel like I have zero time for myself anymore and no energy for anything. It's making me really down because it feels like all the spiritual progress I made has been undone. I'd really appreciate any advice you have, jazakum Allahu khairan.