بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Yesterday evening this small community, that is now home for me, was met by a violent and severe rainstorm. Alhamdulillah that I and those who I know here were all at home. Nonetheless, while some of us watched and listened as strong winds swept the streets, broke palm trees in half, uprooted other trees, and even lifted an aluminum roof off a school, others rushed to clean up the rain water that was seeping into their homes or they busied themselves trying to keep their children calm. It rained the entire night alongside howling winds. Things have since settled, alhamdulillah, but the flooded streets and closed schools are a reminder of last night's message.
Only a little bit of water seeped into my apartment. I only noticed it as I stood by the window and looked out to see the early evening skies darken while intense winds and rain poured through. Little was visible to the eyes, but much could be heard.
I was reminded of both the people of 'Aad and the people to whom Nuh 'alayhi assalaam was sent. Not a single drop of rain will fall from the sky except that Allah wills it. Yesterday's rain was from the wrath of God, while this morning's rain was surely from His mercy. We have much to fear with regards to our spiritual states and yet there is so much for which to hope. May Allah forgive us and guide us to all that is pleasing to Him and protect us from that which isn't. May He protect us from the evils of ourselves and may He make us among His grateful, patient, obedient, and righteous servants, ameen.
We must take heed as the message that was sent was a reminder of wisdom that has already reached our ears. The issue isn't the mind as much as it is the heart. So I remind myself that as I process the storm in mind I have to strive for changes in heart. Such short-term memories most of us have.
Nov. 21, 2013
