Brother sent this question: “As-salamu `alaykum. Dear scholar, I feel that I haven’t prepared myself well for Ramadan as I should have done some time earlier. What can I do in the rest few days? Thanks and regards.“
Your question does show your zeal to welcome the blessed month in a fitting manner. I pray to Allah to inspire us to love His ordinances to follow them diligently while staying away from the things He has forbidden.
How to prepare yourself for Ramadan
As for your question, I would mention three points here:
1- Acquiring proper knowledge as to perform this important pillar in form and spirit should be a top priority. As Ali ibn Abi Talib said, “There is no benefit in reading without reflection; likewise there is no benefit to be derived from rendering worship without knowledge.”
2- Beside knowledge of the forms of worship, we must also seek to discern the inner dimensions.
3- Be prepared to join the faithful in tarawih in the mosque and partake of the spiritual graces that emanate from Allah. For when the believers gather and listen (to) and read the Quran and offer supplications to Allah, it is on occasion for the descend of sakinah or the spiritual tranquility.
4- Finally, make a firm resolution to ensure that the blessed month usher a new chapter in your life; a time to enhance faith, seek repentance, break bad habits and cultivate good ones.
