There are about 7.6 billion people in the world. And about 24% of them - 1.8 billion - are fasting from sunrise to sunset. Every day. For an entire month.
It is Ramadan, the holiest month of the Muslim calendar.
Follow these 10 tips on how to behave with your Muslim friends during the holy month:
1. You can eat in front of us...
For the 30 days of Ramadan, Muslims around the world will abstain from eating and drinking during daylight hours. That doesn't mean you shouldn't carry on with your routine as usual. (Just turn a deaf ear to our growling stomachs.)
2. ... but try not to plan a working lunch
If your Muslim coworker takes permission, understand.
3. You don't have to fast with us...
You can if you want to see how it feels. But it won't hurt our feelings - even if we're good friends.
4. ... but you can join us for Iftar
Iftar is the breaking of the fast after sunset. We like to make it a big communal meal. You are welcome to come.
5. You don't have to know when it starts...
Ramadan is not like Christmas or Thanksgiving, where everyone knows exactly when it will fall. It occurs at different times because the Islamic calendar is lunar. When it starts depends on when the new moon is sighted. That's why the exact dates vary from year to year.
6. ...but please be a little flexible
The way we determine when Ramadan starts is decidedly outdated: You have to physically sight the crescent moon (although there are apps for that). That's why, if your coworker says, "Starting tomorrow, can I start work early so I can leave sooner?" try to understand.
7. We'll still go for coffee with you...
No, we can't drink. Not even water. But we'll walk with you if you want to take a break.
8. ...but we can keep our distance
We can't eat and drink all day long. That's why we're one step away from you when we talk.
9. You can say 'Ramadan Mubarak'...
It means "Happy Ramadan." Your Muslim coworker will appreciate the thoughtfulness.
10. ...but please don't say: 'I need to fast too. I need to lose weight'
Ramadan has nothing to do with this.
