In a refugee camp in Deir al-Balah, displaced families are embracing Ramadan by creating festive lanterns from egg cartons and cardboard instead of relying on traditional decorations from stores. These makeshift ornaments, which hang at the entrances of makeshift homes, represent a resilient spirit amid the harsh realities these families face. The decorations are a significant attempt to foster a sense of joy and celebration, particularly for the children, whose lives have been profoundly affected by fear and loss.

The story features the perspective of Um Fathi Abu Awda, a displaced woman from Beit Hanoun, who articulates the emotional weight of their struggles while seeking to infuse hope into the bleak circumstances surrounding them. She describes the process of creating decorations as a heartfelt endeavor to elicit smiles from children, many of whom are overwhelmed by grief and uncertainty. As she reflects on the last Ramadan when her son was alive and actively engaged in the festivities, she conveys both the depth of her loss and her determination to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive despite the immense challenges they face.

Um Fathi's narrative highlights a broader theme of resilience and survival among displaced communities in Gaza. The poignant descriptions of life in makeshift tents, dealing with illnesses, and the harsh weather illustrate the ongoing difficulties faced by these families. Yet, their effort to celebrate Ramadan—albeit in a limited and improvised manner—underscores a tenacity to find hope and joy in the simplest of things, amidst an environment characterized by hardship and loss.