Kimberly Ryder Umrah in the Month of Ramadan, Realizing a Long-held Dream

Kimberly Ryder feels very grateful because amidst her busy schedule, the door to Makkah has finally opened wide. The emotion cannot be hidden from her face as she prepares to board the plane.

"I once asked Allah, 'Oh Allah, I really want to perform Umrah during the fasting month.' But thank God, I finally got it," said Kimberly when met at Soekarno Hatta Airport, Tangerang, Wednesday (4/3/2016).

"This is masya Allah, it has really come true for me. Now, regarding the problems... our plan is just to think the same as our other team, with our brothers, I said not to worry about it," added Kimberly Ryder. 

Although aware that she would face different weather and physical conditions that need to be maintained during fasting, Kimberly remains optimistic. She chooses to focus on her main goal of worship and does not want to be burdened by negative thoughts that could disrupt her concentration.

"What's important is that we stay positive and, what is it called, pray, pray. Actually, the prayer is that if it is safe, everything will be safe there, we will be sent off like that. God willing, everything will be safe, everything will go smoothly," said Kimberly.

This journey feels very special because it coincides with the busiest time in the Holy Land. Kimberly admits she is mentally prepared to face the crowds of pilgrims from all over the world who also want to seek rewards during the month of Ramadan.

"Now it’s the peak season, which is the month of Ramadan. It should be even busier, they say. But that’s how it is, we really want to earn the reward of performing Hajj with the Prophet Muhammad. And I want to fulfill my beloved mother's dream as well. This is the second time. It has been 10 years," he explained further.