February 18 marks the beginning of Lent and Ramadan. Celebrated by Christians and Muslims around the world, both are rooted in reflection, compassion, generosity and kindness to others. Always but particularly, during the next 40 days, choose to extend grace, care intentionally and be more kind.
Two sacred seasons of reflection begin for many in our community: Lent and Ramadan.
✝️ Lent
Observed by many Christians, Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, reflection, sacrifice, and renewal leading up to Easter. It is a time to pause, examine one’s heart, practice humility, and grow closer to God through intentional acts of discipline and service.
☪️ Ramadan
Observed by Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is a month of fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, self-reflection, and generosity. It is a sacred time focused on spiritual growth, gratitude, and compassion — especially toward those experiencing hardship.
Though rooted in different faith traditions, both seasons share powerful cornerstones:
- Self-reflection
- Discipline
- Humility
- Generosity
- Service to others
Kindness is not an extra during these seasons — it is the foundation.
Both Lent and Ramadan call us to:
- Be more patient.
- Speak more gently.
- Give more generously.
- Extend grace.
- Care intentionally for those around us.
In a world that can feel rushed and reactive, these sacred seasons remind us to slow down and move with compassion.
As members of this campus community, whether or not you observe Lent or Ramadan, we can all embrace the spirit of the season:
- Offer understanding if a colleague or student is fasting.
- Give grace in moments of stress.
- Check in on someone who may be carrying more than you realize.
- Choose civility in difficult conversations.
- Perform one intentional act of kindness each day.
Kindness is not seasonal — but this is a beautiful season to practice it more deliberately.
Let us recommit to being a community where everyone belongs, where differences are respected, and where compassion guides our actions.
Be patient.
Be generous.
Be kind.
Submitted by: Civility and Kindness Workgroup
Tags: Diversity
