The month of Ramadan just started tonight at sundown here in Amman, and since this month always triggers all kinds of nostalgic emotions, I thought I would share a few favorite photos from Ramadans past.
In the Middle East, Ramadan may be filled with hangry people jonesing for that first cigarette after sundown, but it's also a special time of the year. Life and work continue on at a slower pace. Muslims fast to remember the suffering of the less fortunate, and give thanks with their family and friends with elaborate iftar meals after sundown. Curfews are lifted for teenagers and it's not uncommon to see outdoor cafes jam-packed with people of all ages until the wee hours.
Ramadan is also magical because it's the time of year when most charitable giving takes place in the Muslim world. It's also inspiring to see churches and mosques come together in the Middle East to provide free iftars for the hungry - like the Restaurant of Mercy does in Amman.