Helloo Toots!
Well Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and muslims abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse from first light to sunset. During that time we fast to remember those who have less than us, pray more and read the Qur'an. We also visit friends, family and open our fasts together at sunset, focusing more on our families and even our neighbours. We are also told of the health benefits of allowing the body to 'take a rest' for a period of time every year.
For me personally, during Ramadan I feel much closer to those people who are starving around the world. As much as it sounds like a cliché it gives me a chance to experience how they must feel on a daily basis, with one difference, I get to eat food in the evening however many of these people don't. Also, on an empty stomach you do feel like you can think a little clearer, even though in the first few days it can be quite difficult, you get used to it.
Ramadan faux pas - I don't think there are really any faux pas apart from don't waive a sandwich in front of someones face when they are fasting, they might start looking at you like they want to eat you.
Pregnant women, the elderly, sick and those who are travelling do not have to fast. Also when women are on TOM they don't have to keep their fasts either, but have to make them up later.
If your colleagues seem a little cranky, don't take it personally they don't mean it. I am usually quite silent the first few days and some people get headaches as well the first few days, so you might see a few people looking like zombies. By the 3rd or 4th day people get used to it.
A little overview of our beliefs:
-we believe in the One God
-we believe in Angels, who are honored creatures
-we believe in all the books that were sent down
- we believe in all the prophets and messengers, including Adam, Jesus, Noah and the final messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him)
-we believe in the day of judgement
-we believe in divine predestination (Al-Qadr)
Islam is built on 5 pillars:
-the declaration of faith
-prayer
-fasting
-zakat (support of the needy)
-pilgrimage to mecca
Apologies for the long post, wanted to answer all your questions
If you want to know anymore just let us know, muslims love talking hehe
Peace