It was just after everyone had Sunday supper when my Matron came to collect me. I had attempted to usher the hunger down inside of me, but while observing everyone else eat, it rose again, ready to take over. As we walked over to the grand St Hilda’s, unease washed over me as I glanced at the monumental boarding house. However, these ripples of trepidation were swept away the moment I ambled in. Inside I found a community of welcoming people, young and old, teachers and students, all with warm smiles. This had been my first interaction with the Islam Society, and I had no idea what to expect. Mrs Najim rose to introduce me and before I knew it, I was having conversations with some of the most pleasant, amiable people I have ever met.
At around 7.30pm we were gathered together in the St Hilda’s kitchen and waited in anticipation for the clock to reach the right minute. The second the clock ticked into place, a loud cheer rose from me and my friends as we all reached in for a date to break our fast. Everyone then queued up to get the most appetising, mouth-watering, delectable food. This had been my first Ramadan away from home, and it was lovely to see how much effort everyone had put in to make our staple cultural food. In addition, by the time we reached our seats again, there were Mango and Banana Date milkshakes on every table. Everyone ate until they were content, and by the time we were finished I had found an abundance of friendships in places I would never have even thought to look.
At around 9.00pm my Housemistress came to collect me, though I was sad to leave the amazing group of people I had just found.
Raisa (LC1/Year 7)
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