BismiAllah
Hours past midnight, memories for me to taste
A flavour so strong, my heart makes haste
But it stumbles on the way to embrace this peace
Remembering only the heartless games of deceit
Don't play with me, O Tempter, your way is lame
I won't be your chess piece in this selfish game
Words of defense eagerly spoken
Your gesture is yet another selfish token
No closure from a vague excuse
My being begs entrance into deep recluse
Victimized by the very essence of self
Resolving for security and a greater wealth
For you your way, and for me mine own
Words easily spoken, though actionless prone
My enemy moves with me from the depths within
The game is just beginning, so deceptive is sin
Will It Ever Stop?
BismiAllah
It has to stop. At this very moment, as I take my next breath, another woman, man, and/or child is being violated in the worst of ways. Beaten, raped, and humiliated. It's not nice to hear about these ugly things that plague our world, but they're happening. Sometimes it's right under our noses.
Unfortunately, I recently watched some television shows such as CSI, Criminal Minds, and Law and Order. Most of the criminal cases in these shows refer to some crude and violent action used to kill a person. Worse still, these programs, though filled with the drama of Hollywood, actually showed the individuals being tortured and killed. I hate it. I hate it. I couldn't help but wonder if it is shows such as these that we can thank for the phenomenally high rates of rape and violence against women. I wonder, is it reality that provides the scripts for these shows or are the shows providing scripts for sick minds that are looking for sadistically creative ways to hurt others. I think it's a combination of both.
I'm not sure what's worse, the fact that people watch this and eventually become desensitized to such horrendous injustices or that people (because there are people who are responsible for this) actually act these things out, tape it, and then put it on national TV. Honestly, I think it's one disgusting cycle, and I question how it ever came to exist.
It goes without saying that some people in the world are walking around with stones in place of what was once a pure and innocent heart. There are vicious cycles of violence occurring. Often, crimes committed in adulthood are attributed to problematic childhoods. Why do people have bad childhoods? Often because their parents don't do their jobs and often even harm their children in horrible, horrible, horrible ways.
How do we change this? In one lecture, Shaykh Anwar Al Alwaki (may God preserve him and give him tawfeeq, ameen) talked about how at the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), his companions would follow the laws revealed in the Quran immediately upon the revelation of the verses. He sited the incident when alcohol was declared forbidden through revelation. Those who heard the revelation from the lips of our beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) took the news to the rest of the city. At the time, one of the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) [whose name I cannot recall] was pouring alcohol for others. Upon hearing the revelation, he immediately threw the alcohol away. Those who had alcohol in their cups, immediately threw that away. Those who had alcohol in their mouths, immediately spat it out, and some who had just ingested alcohol even went to the length of inducing vomit. Glory be to God!
Shaykh Anwar Al Awlaki also reminds us about how the US attempted to ban alcohol but failed because people became involved in bootlegging and found other illegal ways to produce and consume alcohol which eventually led to bad health conditions for the people.
The effort to ban alcohol in the US was an expensive venture that was sadly unsuccessful. So why were the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) able to respond so diligently and wholeheartedly to the prohibition of alcohol? Maybe because they had a blessed Prophet (peace be upon him) living among them? Hmm.. perhaps. But had the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) told them the same in Makkah as soon as they became Muslims, it wouldn't have worked so well. Why? Because while in Makkah, the new Muslims were still learning the meaning of faith (or imaan).
What does faith mean today? What does it mean to have a closeness to our Creator? What does it mean to submit to our Creator? The companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him and may God's mercy be upon all of the Prophet's companions) submitted to the Oneness of God in the truest way possible. I pray for this submission and long to keep the company of those who have it. We need it.
This world needs a return to truth. This world needs a return to justice. This world needs a return to peace.
Shaykh Anwar Al Awlaki continued his lecture by sharing the key to becoming a successful thief namely that one should aim to take that which is light in weight yet great in value. The same key can be used by those of us struggling to open the door to imaan. One of the lightest yet highly valuable ways to achieve our goal is to continuously remind ourselves about our purpose in life and to remember our Lord (engage in dhikr) in all that we do.
For the love of God, we need to change things. It's not okay to entertain ourselves with programs that depict violence of others. It's a serious matter. Injustices must not be taken lightly.
We can't keep hitting the snooze button. It is way past time to wake up. Let's wake up!
O Lord, help us all, ameen!
It has to stop. At this very moment, as I take my next breath, another woman, man, and/or child is being violated in the worst of ways. Beaten, raped, and humiliated. It's not nice to hear about these ugly things that plague our world, but they're happening. Sometimes it's right under our noses.
Unfortunately, I recently watched some television shows such as CSI, Criminal Minds, and Law and Order. Most of the criminal cases in these shows refer to some crude and violent action used to kill a person. Worse still, these programs, though filled with the drama of Hollywood, actually showed the individuals being tortured and killed. I hate it. I hate it. I couldn't help but wonder if it is shows such as these that we can thank for the phenomenally high rates of rape and violence against women. I wonder, is it reality that provides the scripts for these shows or are the shows providing scripts for sick minds that are looking for sadistically creative ways to hurt others. I think it's a combination of both.
I'm not sure what's worse, the fact that people watch this and eventually become desensitized to such horrendous injustices or that people (because there are people who are responsible for this) actually act these things out, tape it, and then put it on national TV. Honestly, I think it's one disgusting cycle, and I question how it ever came to exist.
It goes without saying that some people in the world are walking around with stones in place of what was once a pure and innocent heart. There are vicious cycles of violence occurring. Often, crimes committed in adulthood are attributed to problematic childhoods. Why do people have bad childhoods? Often because their parents don't do their jobs and often even harm their children in horrible, horrible, horrible ways.
How do we change this? In one lecture, Shaykh Anwar Al Alwaki (may God preserve him and give him tawfeeq, ameen) talked about how at the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), his companions would follow the laws revealed in the Quran immediately upon the revelation of the verses. He sited the incident when alcohol was declared forbidden through revelation. Those who heard the revelation from the lips of our beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) took the news to the rest of the city. At the time, one of the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) [whose name I cannot recall] was pouring alcohol for others. Upon hearing the revelation, he immediately threw the alcohol away. Those who had alcohol in their cups, immediately threw that away. Those who had alcohol in their mouths, immediately spat it out, and some who had just ingested alcohol even went to the length of inducing vomit. Glory be to God!
Shaykh Anwar Al Awlaki also reminds us about how the US attempted to ban alcohol but failed because people became involved in bootlegging and found other illegal ways to produce and consume alcohol which eventually led to bad health conditions for the people.
The effort to ban alcohol in the US was an expensive venture that was sadly unsuccessful. So why were the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) able to respond so diligently and wholeheartedly to the prohibition of alcohol? Maybe because they had a blessed Prophet (peace be upon him) living among them? Hmm.. perhaps. But had the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) told them the same in Makkah as soon as they became Muslims, it wouldn't have worked so well. Why? Because while in Makkah, the new Muslims were still learning the meaning of faith (or imaan).
What does faith mean today? What does it mean to have a closeness to our Creator? What does it mean to submit to our Creator? The companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him and may God's mercy be upon all of the Prophet's companions) submitted to the Oneness of God in the truest way possible. I pray for this submission and long to keep the company of those who have it. We need it.
This world needs a return to truth. This world needs a return to justice. This world needs a return to peace.
Shaykh Anwar Al Awlaki continued his lecture by sharing the key to becoming a successful thief namely that one should aim to take that which is light in weight yet great in value. The same key can be used by those of us struggling to open the door to imaan. One of the lightest yet highly valuable ways to achieve our goal is to continuously remind ourselves about our purpose in life and to remember our Lord (engage in dhikr) in all that we do.
For the love of God, we need to change things. It's not okay to entertain ourselves with programs that depict violence of others. It's a serious matter. Injustices must not be taken lightly.
We can't keep hitting the snooze button. It is way past time to wake up. Let's wake up!
O Lord, help us all, ameen!
Knock Knock
Bismi Allah
Sitting atop a mountain. Embracing the mysterious atmosphere. Favonian winds sweeping through. Enticing secret thoughts.
Savouring happiness. Indulging its companion. Echoing a release of emotions.
Still. Motionless. Peace.
Peace.
The waves pound against the rocks. A return of the natural. Wading in water. Fighting the waves.
A sudden calm.
Still. Motionless. Peace.
The succulence of life. Salivating tissues. Fear. Hope. Struggle.
Nothing comes easy. Tap into secluded silence. Wed truth.
All nuisances, remove yourselves. All temptations, cease your efforts.
The call has been made. Respond to it. Taste it. Feel it. Engage it.
Sitting atop a mountain. Embracing the mysterious atmosphere. Favonian winds sweeping through. Enticing secret thoughts.
Savouring happiness. Indulging its companion. Echoing a release of emotions.
Still. Motionless. Peace.
Peace.
The waves pound against the rocks. A return of the natural. Wading in water. Fighting the waves.
A sudden calm.
Still. Motionless. Peace.
The succulence of life. Salivating tissues. Fear. Hope. Struggle.
Nothing comes easy. Tap into secluded silence. Wed truth.
All nuisances, remove yourselves. All temptations, cease your efforts.
The call has been made. Respond to it. Taste it. Feel it. Engage it.
Duty Bound
BismiAllah
There are four generations of people currently living at home now. It never ceases to amaze me that despite having some shared genes, there are considerable generational differences. One of my grandmothers was born and raised in South Africa and left the country when she married sometime during the apartheid (if I have my history right). My other grandmother was born and raised in India, and experienced a completely different life. My parents, born and raised in a British colony, grew up with priceless joys and some tough times. My generation...well.. we're a different story all together. I think sometimes the only thing that keeps us grounded is knowing that were it not for the hard work of preceding generations and the blessings of God, our lives would be no different than the millions worldwide who are struggling on a daily basis to meet even the most basic of needs. All praises and thanks belong to God, the Most High, deserving of all praise.
My parents often share stories of their young days, and they always entertain my questions about their lives and their parents' lives. I try to absorb it all, but I know that I will never truly be able to understand how it was for them. In the least though, it teaches me to appreciate the life that I have.
North America, and the West in general, is an individualistic society. The idea being that if you can do everything alone, then you're successful. I think this is a load of bologna. Of course, people must handle themselves and take care of their own responsibilities, but in a humble way.
What does humility have to do with it? Well, when I think about how my parents described their early years after marriage, I find that they were responsible for themselves, yet they were loving and connected to their parents. Their independence was out of necessity, not out of arrogance nor out of an effort to prove their maturity. Thus, to some extent, they were able to honour their parents and all that they parents had done for the sake of making their children's lives easier.
It bothers me a lot to see the elderly alone. I often see them shopping alone, driving alone, and walking alone. This is not right. As a society, we cannot keep taking... we have to give something back. I know there are people who do take care of their elders, for which I don't doubt that their lives will be enriched.
When I watch my nephews and all that their parents go through for them, I can't help but wonder what my parents felt over the years when taking care of me.... SubhanAllah... I wish there was a way I could honour them and express my gratitude to them, but nothing I do will ever suffice. Instead, I pray for them, attempt to be a better daughter to them, and I promise myself that if I live to see them into their old age, I will do whatever I can to care for them, God willing.
May the Almighty take care of our parents, aunts, and uncles in their old age as they took care of us when we were young. May He bless them and bestow His infinite mercy upon them and us all. May He cause us all to lead lives that are pleasing to Him and make us all among those whom He is pleased with, ameen!
There are four generations of people currently living at home now. It never ceases to amaze me that despite having some shared genes, there are considerable generational differences. One of my grandmothers was born and raised in South Africa and left the country when she married sometime during the apartheid (if I have my history right). My other grandmother was born and raised in India, and experienced a completely different life. My parents, born and raised in a British colony, grew up with priceless joys and some tough times. My generation...well.. we're a different story all together. I think sometimes the only thing that keeps us grounded is knowing that were it not for the hard work of preceding generations and the blessings of God, our lives would be no different than the millions worldwide who are struggling on a daily basis to meet even the most basic of needs. All praises and thanks belong to God, the Most High, deserving of all praise.
My parents often share stories of their young days, and they always entertain my questions about their lives and their parents' lives. I try to absorb it all, but I know that I will never truly be able to understand how it was for them. In the least though, it teaches me to appreciate the life that I have.
North America, and the West in general, is an individualistic society. The idea being that if you can do everything alone, then you're successful. I think this is a load of bologna. Of course, people must handle themselves and take care of their own responsibilities, but in a humble way.
What does humility have to do with it? Well, when I think about how my parents described their early years after marriage, I find that they were responsible for themselves, yet they were loving and connected to their parents. Their independence was out of necessity, not out of arrogance nor out of an effort to prove their maturity. Thus, to some extent, they were able to honour their parents and all that they parents had done for the sake of making their children's lives easier.
It bothers me a lot to see the elderly alone. I often see them shopping alone, driving alone, and walking alone. This is not right. As a society, we cannot keep taking... we have to give something back. I know there are people who do take care of their elders, for which I don't doubt that their lives will be enriched.
When I watch my nephews and all that their parents go through for them, I can't help but wonder what my parents felt over the years when taking care of me.... SubhanAllah... I wish there was a way I could honour them and express my gratitude to them, but nothing I do will ever suffice. Instead, I pray for them, attempt to be a better daughter to them, and I promise myself that if I live to see them into their old age, I will do whatever I can to care for them, God willing.
May the Almighty take care of our parents, aunts, and uncles in their old age as they took care of us when we were young. May He bless them and bestow His infinite mercy upon them and us all. May He cause us all to lead lives that are pleasing to Him and make us all among those whom He is pleased with, ameen!
Nafsi, nafsi, nafsi.... Myself, myself, myself...
Bismi Allah
It all comes back to us, ourselves, our selfish motives, and our lack of effort directed towards understanding things outside of ourselves and our ways of doing and being.
It is often difficult to get our heads around the ways of this world. It's easy to appreciate complicated matters because the complication illustrates the intricacies and sophistication of life, but sometimes it's nice to find some areas of security, free of obscurities.
I imagine that many wonder, "Where must our loyalties lie?" In our chaotic world of increased technology combined with inept and ignoble leadership, it's not safe to trust anybody who is willing to give even a somewhat intelligent opinion on any matter. Thus, it becomes a personal necessity for individuals to learn more about the pertinent issues and to reflect upon these while strictly adhering to universal principles.
These thoughts stem from some of the ideas that Dr. Tariq Ramadan expresses to the world at large. He is one brother who I regard with a high level of respect, and whom I love for the sake of God. [May God bless him and his family, ameen.] Not only does he offer a humble and clear perspective of the world, but he also has practical suggestions that we can all implement in our daily lives to improve ourselves on a personal level and in turn become productive on the communal and global levels.
In a recent lecture, he mentioned that when we build our communities we have to start by building a space of love. For many, this love comes from our families and close friends. They are often the ones we lean on when things get difficult. It is such a blessing, but it's not something that is shared by everybody. I guess that's why it becomes increasingly important for us to express some level of this compassion and love to others. But how? This is a very personal question that each of us has to figure out, given our circumstances, for ourselves.
In one of my classes in university, we were required to form a group and complete a large assignment. The professor advised us to approach this group work with a focus on the process instead of the goal. Similarly, our goal in life is to serve our Lord as He commands us, yet the only way to approach this is to be dilligent throughout the process. The goal doesn't take precedence over the process, especially since we can't guarantee ourselves that we will achieve the goal --- all we can do is ensure that we are working hard towards the goal.
Whatever it is that any of us decide to do, we must take great pains to ensure that we do not feed our egos (or nafs, the lower self). Instead, let's transform our efforts into acts of servitude to God through serving humankind... God willing!
It all comes back to us, ourselves, our selfish motives, and our lack of effort directed towards understanding things outside of ourselves and our ways of doing and being.
It is often difficult to get our heads around the ways of this world. It's easy to appreciate complicated matters because the complication illustrates the intricacies and sophistication of life, but sometimes it's nice to find some areas of security, free of obscurities.
I imagine that many wonder, "Where must our loyalties lie?" In our chaotic world of increased technology combined with inept and ignoble leadership, it's not safe to trust anybody who is willing to give even a somewhat intelligent opinion on any matter. Thus, it becomes a personal necessity for individuals to learn more about the pertinent issues and to reflect upon these while strictly adhering to universal principles.
These thoughts stem from some of the ideas that Dr. Tariq Ramadan expresses to the world at large. He is one brother who I regard with a high level of respect, and whom I love for the sake of God. [May God bless him and his family, ameen.] Not only does he offer a humble and clear perspective of the world, but he also has practical suggestions that we can all implement in our daily lives to improve ourselves on a personal level and in turn become productive on the communal and global levels.
In a recent lecture, he mentioned that when we build our communities we have to start by building a space of love. For many, this love comes from our families and close friends. They are often the ones we lean on when things get difficult. It is such a blessing, but it's not something that is shared by everybody. I guess that's why it becomes increasingly important for us to express some level of this compassion and love to others. But how? This is a very personal question that each of us has to figure out, given our circumstances, for ourselves.
In one of my classes in university, we were required to form a group and complete a large assignment. The professor advised us to approach this group work with a focus on the process instead of the goal. Similarly, our goal in life is to serve our Lord as He commands us, yet the only way to approach this is to be dilligent throughout the process. The goal doesn't take precedence over the process, especially since we can't guarantee ourselves that we will achieve the goal --- all we can do is ensure that we are working hard towards the goal.
Whatever it is that any of us decide to do, we must take great pains to ensure that we do not feed our egos (or nafs, the lower self). Instead, let's transform our efforts into acts of servitude to God through serving humankind... God willing!
Unveiling One's Nature
BismiAllah
The midday heat was becoming increasingly oppressive; nonetheless, the young man decided to trek on. He really had no other choice. "A few more hours until sunset, just keep going..." he chided himself. He had been walking alone through this barren desert for more than 24 hours in search of a treasure. It was not the typical treasure with gold and precious jewels, but rather the treasury of an oasis with lavish date palms and cool water. He knew it was a matter of time before he found it, but despite his decision to continue walking his body collapsed onto a blanket of burning sand.
"I must keep going... I have to find it," he mumbled. Still, his body would not obey. He dragged himself slowly across the earth moving a few feet further and finally collapsed. Time passed by slowly. Though conscious, he was exhausted. It was nearing sunset, and he was losing hope in his mission. In a final effort to continue, he dug his hands into the sand and pushed his body slightly upward. He then looked up.
Before his very eyes was no other than the oasis itself, more beautiful than he had imagined! He was ecstatic. "At last, I have found you!" he declared. The adrenaline that came with his excitement was enough for him to stand up again. He took slow steps towards his beauty as he spoke to it, "For hours, I've searched this hot and crude desert for you, and now you are mine. I shall enjoy you more now than I ever did in my dreams...."
He suddenly stopped.
"Strange..." he said. "Every time I come closer to you, you move further away from me." He took another step forward, and his beauty increased their distance again. "It is not time for games, my love. I've earned my time with you." The sun was rapidly sinking into the horizon, and his beautiful treasure was fading away. He counselled himself to patience. "We shall meet again in the morning," he promised the darkness before him.
He lay down on the sand, now much cooler than earlier that afternoon. Using his arms as a pillow, he tried to sleep. His attempts failed as his mind raced with thoughts of how he would claim his treasure. Finally, he drifted off into a restless sleep.
The morning sun peaked over the horizon, and the young man opened his eyes. Unsure of where he was, he surveyed his surroundings. He then remembered what had transpired the day before and eagerly rose to meet his challenge -- but it was nowhere in sight.
"It has to be here somewhere," he said. He continued walking. Three hours later, he saw it again. "We meet again, O Beautiful One," he said. No response. "You tormented me in my sleep, and now I must conquer you. But first, allow me to understand you." Still no response.
He plopped down onto the sand before it and said, "It seems to me that your wealth is only good at certain times. Can your owner not enjoy you whenever he pleases? Even if enjoyment of you has its limitations, will I have to chase you each morning? Even if I have to chase you each morning, what can you offer me besides sweet dates and some water?"
Still no response. He sighed. He closed his eyes and listened. Silence. He listened to his breathing. The world echoed a silence that moved with the rhythm of his soul.
He opened his eyes again and looked around only to find hills of sand in every direction. He smiled a knowing smile and rose once again to continue his journey. "Sometimes you just have to talk to your mirage."
"Anyone who spends the day in safety, in good health and with (enough to eat), is like someone upon whom the world and all it contains has been bestowed."
-- Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him)
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 185]
The midday heat was becoming increasingly oppressive; nonetheless, the young man decided to trek on. He really had no other choice. "A few more hours until sunset, just keep going..." he chided himself. He had been walking alone through this barren desert for more than 24 hours in search of a treasure. It was not the typical treasure with gold and precious jewels, but rather the treasury of an oasis with lavish date palms and cool water. He knew it was a matter of time before he found it, but despite his decision to continue walking his body collapsed onto a blanket of burning sand.
"I must keep going... I have to find it," he mumbled. Still, his body would not obey. He dragged himself slowly across the earth moving a few feet further and finally collapsed. Time passed by slowly. Though conscious, he was exhausted. It was nearing sunset, and he was losing hope in his mission. In a final effort to continue, he dug his hands into the sand and pushed his body slightly upward. He then looked up.
Before his very eyes was no other than the oasis itself, more beautiful than he had imagined! He was ecstatic. "At last, I have found you!" he declared. The adrenaline that came with his excitement was enough for him to stand up again. He took slow steps towards his beauty as he spoke to it, "For hours, I've searched this hot and crude desert for you, and now you are mine. I shall enjoy you more now than I ever did in my dreams...."
He suddenly stopped.
"Strange..." he said. "Every time I come closer to you, you move further away from me." He took another step forward, and his beauty increased their distance again. "It is not time for games, my love. I've earned my time with you." The sun was rapidly sinking into the horizon, and his beautiful treasure was fading away. He counselled himself to patience. "We shall meet again in the morning," he promised the darkness before him.
He lay down on the sand, now much cooler than earlier that afternoon. Using his arms as a pillow, he tried to sleep. His attempts failed as his mind raced with thoughts of how he would claim his treasure. Finally, he drifted off into a restless sleep.
The morning sun peaked over the horizon, and the young man opened his eyes. Unsure of where he was, he surveyed his surroundings. He then remembered what had transpired the day before and eagerly rose to meet his challenge -- but it was nowhere in sight.
"It has to be here somewhere," he said. He continued walking. Three hours later, he saw it again. "We meet again, O Beautiful One," he said. No response. "You tormented me in my sleep, and now I must conquer you. But first, allow me to understand you." Still no response.
He plopped down onto the sand before it and said, "It seems to me that your wealth is only good at certain times. Can your owner not enjoy you whenever he pleases? Even if enjoyment of you has its limitations, will I have to chase you each morning? Even if I have to chase you each morning, what can you offer me besides sweet dates and some water?"
Still no response. He sighed. He closed his eyes and listened. Silence. He listened to his breathing. The world echoed a silence that moved with the rhythm of his soul.
He opened his eyes again and looked around only to find hills of sand in every direction. He smiled a knowing smile and rose once again to continue his journey. "Sometimes you just have to talk to your mirage."
-- Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him)
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 185]
Is Love Failing?
BismiLlah
For centuries, people have written about love - romantic love, parental love, humanistic love, and the list goes on. To be able to love is a blessing, one that can't be taken for granted, but really, what does love mean?
Does love mean to adore someone or something to the point of weakening your grasp on reality or is it entirely the opposite and instead a force that brings us clarity? Is it really a "force"? If so, what is its purpose? Where can we find it?
If we say we love humanity, why do we wrong each other? If we say we love our families, why can't we respect each other? If we say that we love goodness, why do we engage in evil? We often blame it on the devil, aka Shaytan/Satan. He gets the blame where we err, and yet he will tell us himself that he can't make us do anything and that our decisions are our own. So do we listen to his suggestions because we love him? Perhaps. Or perhaps we are instead serving our nafs where we need to be serving our Lord.
As Muslims, it seems as though we have rankings of love and dedication. There are, of course, various types of love, but it basically goes like this: love your Creator, love the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and all the Prophets and Messengers (peace be upon them all), and then love everything that Islam teaches. The second scheme includes that which Islam teaches and goes like this: love your parents, love your kin, love the ummah, love your neighbours, and love humanity. Love is a sophisticated interplay of rights and responsibilities. In each instance, to achieve love requires some work and a focus, essentially the rekindling of a fire within the soul.
I am starting to believe each level of love has to be nurtured in order to have any hope for achieving success at the next level. Have you noticed how often when we speak of great people of the past, we find that these people actually loved their enemies simply as a result of their shared humanity? Today, it is considered praiseworthy to tell another person off -- a glory that at one point was endowed to the one who remained calm. No doubt, accepted cultural norms of today's society need to be challenged with an acute sense of awareness of what it means to be a Muslim.
The Muslim is the one with a patient smile, forgiving words, a compassionate personality, and yet is a lion on the battlefield for the sake of earning His Lord's pleasure.
Love is a tool and force that can be used for both good and evil. It doesn't fail us in bettering this world; we fail because we use it for selfish gains. Ironic, isn't it?
We can only say that we love something or someone if we know what that involves. In order to adorn ourselves with the cloak of love, we need to start from the beginning. For me, this means learning about what it means to be an ama (or 'abd, the masculine word) (servant) of Allah. This is the only type of love that can single-handedly fill the heart. Without it, every other type of love will neither be complete nor everlasting.
For centuries, people have written about love - romantic love, parental love, humanistic love, and the list goes on. To be able to love is a blessing, one that can't be taken for granted, but really, what does love mean?
Does love mean to adore someone or something to the point of weakening your grasp on reality or is it entirely the opposite and instead a force that brings us clarity? Is it really a "force"? If so, what is its purpose? Where can we find it?
If we say we love humanity, why do we wrong each other? If we say we love our families, why can't we respect each other? If we say that we love goodness, why do we engage in evil? We often blame it on the devil, aka Shaytan/Satan. He gets the blame where we err, and yet he will tell us himself that he can't make us do anything and that our decisions are our own. So do we listen to his suggestions because we love him? Perhaps. Or perhaps we are instead serving our nafs where we need to be serving our Lord.
As Muslims, it seems as though we have rankings of love and dedication. There are, of course, various types of love, but it basically goes like this: love your Creator, love the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and all the Prophets and Messengers (peace be upon them all), and then love everything that Islam teaches. The second scheme includes that which Islam teaches and goes like this: love your parents, love your kin, love the ummah, love your neighbours, and love humanity. Love is a sophisticated interplay of rights and responsibilities. In each instance, to achieve love requires some work and a focus, essentially the rekindling of a fire within the soul.
I am starting to believe each level of love has to be nurtured in order to have any hope for achieving success at the next level. Have you noticed how often when we speak of great people of the past, we find that these people actually loved their enemies simply as a result of their shared humanity? Today, it is considered praiseworthy to tell another person off -- a glory that at one point was endowed to the one who remained calm. No doubt, accepted cultural norms of today's society need to be challenged with an acute sense of awareness of what it means to be a Muslim.
The Muslim is the one with a patient smile, forgiving words, a compassionate personality, and yet is a lion on the battlefield for the sake of earning His Lord's pleasure.
Love is a tool and force that can be used for both good and evil. It doesn't fail us in bettering this world; we fail because we use it for selfish gains. Ironic, isn't it?
We can only say that we love something or someone if we know what that involves. In order to adorn ourselves with the cloak of love, we need to start from the beginning. For me, this means learning about what it means to be an ama (or 'abd, the masculine word) (servant) of Allah. This is the only type of love that can single-handedly fill the heart. Without it, every other type of love will neither be complete nor everlasting.
When they behave like servants, they are truly like the Lord.
When they behave like the Lord, they are in a sorry condition.
- Ibn Arabi
Unintended Rejuvenation
BismiAllah
Like the changing winds, I am forced to acknowledge the beauty of renewed direction. One step backwards has taken me two steps forward, praise be to God.
My last post on this blog expressed my intention to cease blogging. Among the useful comments following the post was that of MuslimBro whose comments are the source of inspiration for this post.
I owe him an apology, the premise of which has occupied my thoughts and has helped me to assess myself. My response to his comment was, as I see now, ridiculous. I said, "I'll refrain from blogging until I have something substantial and worthwhile to say that may benefit any readers." There will never be a time when I can say to myself that what I have to say will be substantial or worthwhile to anyone besides myself. SubhanAllah! The arrogance of the statement is shameful, and I seek Allah's guidance and protection from such thinking. I also denied that writing is a gift, and that too is sheer stupidity on my part. May Allah forgive me for it, for no doubt He has blessed with me a lot and the ability to write is definitely a blessing and gift from Him. By recognizing this blessing, I am no doubt obliged to use it in a good way.
So to blog or not to blog? Well, I have benefited from exerting some energy into articulating my incoherence, but I question why it is that I felt relief after my decision to cease blogging. I have an idea of reasons for this relief which I think I discovered from my response to Farhana's comments on my last post. I told her that my posts have gradually weakened since the onset of this blog. When I said that, I was referring to the quality of writing. But it's not the writing itself that I find weakness in, rather it is the intention and/or motivating factor behind the writing. SubhanAllah... I sense a change there that I don't like, and which I believe may be harmful to myself.
I tend to get frustrated with myself for not putting my money where my mouth is, and this blog is clearly my mouth. This is another deterrent. However, with that said, I know there is greatness in step-by-step progression. For example, it is a general trend in society that people enter university, pick a program, and move forward with it as long as they are able and willing or as long as they have achieved adequate credentials. My university experience was far from that, and will likely continue to remain that way. I decided to graduate one year earlier than initially intended because I didn't want to have a degree just for the heck of it. I feel as though I need to pursue other things in life before perhaps considering going back to further my education for the sake of achieving other purposes. Blogging is no different I think. My writing on this blog compared to my writing in notebooks is quite different. I think in some ways, at this point in my life, I do need this outlet as an introspective endeavour -- but on condition...
The condition is one and the same, God willing, with everything in life, and that is that it helps me to move closer to the ultimate goal of purifying myself and coming closer to Allah. If it does not help me in my servitude to my Creator, it is worthless. That goes with everything and anything in life.
"Actions are based on intentions, and he will have what is intended for him." Thus, I will likely resume blogging as long as I can keep my intentions clear and use it as a source of healthy progression, God willing. If not, may Allah help me to see the wretchedness in my misdirected deeds, ameen.
Jazakum Allah khayr previous commentators for being the means through which Allah has allowed me to see my errors. May He continue to favour you with His blessings, and cause us all to meet Him when He is pleased with us, ameen!
Everything Has Its End
BismiAllahir Rahmanir Raheem
I've had a sneaking suspicion, or rather a gut instinct, that there was something about the 'blog world' that wasn't good for me personally (I guess just being the way that I am). But I pushed it aside and instead spent four months writing things that were probably best written in notebooks, if I felt the need to write at all for personal benefits.
I am not sure if in any of my posts I have mentioned trying to 'earn Jannah [Paradise].' If so, forgive me for making such a nonsensical statement. We cannot earn Jannah. It is only by His mercy that we will be able to enter Paradise, God willing. For a brief elaboration on the topic, watch this short clip: Are You Ready to Die?
I don't think there is much traffic on this site, alhamduliAllah, but for those who do visit it, thank you for your comments and discussion, both of which I have appreciated. I will need to find alternative means, besides a wonderful family, for more regular thoughtful interactions. Nevertheless, such is life. Here's a parting gift. Oh, and one more. More food for thought, and another point worth reflecting on, God willing.
May God, the Almighty, forgive me for my mistakes/errors and the wrong that I may have engaged in. May He guide me, my loved ones, the ones who I have come to respect including those in the 'blog world,' and the entire ummah of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. Ameen!
I've had a sneaking suspicion, or rather a gut instinct, that there was something about the 'blog world' that wasn't good for me personally (I guess just being the way that I am). But I pushed it aside and instead spent four months writing things that were probably best written in notebooks, if I felt the need to write at all for personal benefits.
I am not sure if in any of my posts I have mentioned trying to 'earn Jannah [Paradise].' If so, forgive me for making such a nonsensical statement. We cannot earn Jannah. It is only by His mercy that we will be able to enter Paradise, God willing. For a brief elaboration on the topic, watch this short clip: Are You Ready to Die?
I don't think there is much traffic on this site, alhamduliAllah, but for those who do visit it, thank you for your comments and discussion, both of which I have appreciated. I will need to find alternative means, besides a wonderful family, for more regular thoughtful interactions. Nevertheless, such is life. Here's a parting gift. Oh, and one more. More food for thought, and another point worth reflecting on, God willing.
May God, the Almighty, forgive me for my mistakes/errors and the wrong that I may have engaged in. May He guide me, my loved ones, the ones who I have come to respect including those in the 'blog world,' and the entire ummah of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. Ameen!
Remember the ummah in your prayers...
Wa 'alaykum assalaam wa rahmatuAllahi wa barakaatu.
The Painful End of Another Semester
BismiAllah
If you're still a full-time student or have recently spoken to a full-time student, then you know why there seems to be that much more stress in the air these days. Alas, another semester is coming to an end. Students are scrabbling to get assignments completed in the midst of studying for exams with, of course, little time to enjoy for sleeping.
Since I was in my mid-teens, I have had three "life skills" goals - learn to sew, cook, and drive. I guess I figured that once I had these under my belt, I would be set to go through the motions of life, married or not. I have not proven mastery in any of these domains, yet I wonder if I ever will. My idea of 'achieving' these goals is to develop them to a point of automaticity, yet I observe others who have been doing them for years and years but they still run into 'problems' and experience learning curves. So really, I cannot count on being competent enough to have the luxury of slacking in my delivery of any of these essential skills for a 21st century Muslim woman. But does it matter? It doesn't, because that's not the point of achieving these skills.
My reflective point, you ask? Well, any goals that I have in my worldly life are hopefully a means to making things better in my eternal life. Meaning that I only want or need to be perform certain acts diligently for the sake of benefiting myself and my family for the sake of earning God's pleasure for the sake of being among those He chooses to bestow His infinite mercy upon. That's my hope, God willing.
Here's the problem, I'm not stressed enough. I am not like full-time students, and yet I am in the midst of an exam as I write this. I kid you not. This life is a test, and this is absolutely no joke. It's reality, the only reality that a sane person can accept. Yet I feel my failure. I sense it because I am looking for the point where I will be equipped without worry over certain things so that maybe I'll be peaceful enough to concentrate on the exam. Do you see the sad irony of what I'm saying??
I'd like this to make sense to more than just myself, so consider this quotation from the English translation of Imam Mawlud's "Purification of the Heart" with the commentary by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf:
Imam Mawlud says that dissatisfaction is a motivator to seek out better character. A human being is spiritually stalled as long as he content and smug with his state.
Thus, I must ask, do I have unrest because of minor things of this world that won't serve my goal, yet at the same time I experience some element of peace in that which is everlasting but of which I cannot claim possession?
The simplest way to summarize the underlying thoughts of this post is this... most exams don't deserve stress, but this one does. This test of life requires full dedication and the sacrifice of more rather than less. Am I even aware that this is a test? Is my internal self conscious of what the test is meant to achieve? And finally, what sincere effort am I putting toward success in this test?
Glory be to God, the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth, the One deserving of all praises. May His blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad, his companions, his family, all the messengers and prophets, and all the righteous people.
If you're still a full-time student or have recently spoken to a full-time student, then you know why there seems to be that much more stress in the air these days. Alas, another semester is coming to an end. Students are scrabbling to get assignments completed in the midst of studying for exams with, of course, little time to enjoy for sleeping.
Since I was in my mid-teens, I have had three "life skills" goals - learn to sew, cook, and drive. I guess I figured that once I had these under my belt, I would be set to go through the motions of life, married or not. I have not proven mastery in any of these domains, yet I wonder if I ever will. My idea of 'achieving' these goals is to develop them to a point of automaticity, yet I observe others who have been doing them for years and years but they still run into 'problems' and experience learning curves. So really, I cannot count on being competent enough to have the luxury of slacking in my delivery of any of these essential skills for a 21st century Muslim woman. But does it matter? It doesn't, because that's not the point of achieving these skills.
My reflective point, you ask? Well, any goals that I have in my worldly life are hopefully a means to making things better in my eternal life. Meaning that I only want or need to be perform certain acts diligently for the sake of benefiting myself and my family for the sake of earning God's pleasure for the sake of being among those He chooses to bestow His infinite mercy upon. That's my hope, God willing.
Here's the problem, I'm not stressed enough. I am not like full-time students, and yet I am in the midst of an exam as I write this. I kid you not. This life is a test, and this is absolutely no joke. It's reality, the only reality that a sane person can accept. Yet I feel my failure. I sense it because I am looking for the point where I will be equipped without worry over certain things so that maybe I'll be peaceful enough to concentrate on the exam. Do you see the sad irony of what I'm saying??
I'd like this to make sense to more than just myself, so consider this quotation from the English translation of Imam Mawlud's "Purification of the Heart" with the commentary by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf:
Imam Mawlud says that dissatisfaction is a motivator to seek out better character. A human being is spiritually stalled as long as he content and smug with his state.
Thus, I must ask, do I have unrest because of minor things of this world that won't serve my goal, yet at the same time I experience some element of peace in that which is everlasting but of which I cannot claim possession?
The simplest way to summarize the underlying thoughts of this post is this... most exams don't deserve stress, but this one does. This test of life requires full dedication and the sacrifice of more rather than less. Am I even aware that this is a test? Is my internal self conscious of what the test is meant to achieve? And finally, what sincere effort am I putting toward success in this test?
Glory be to God, the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth, the One deserving of all praises. May His blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad, his companions, his family, all the messengers and prophets, and all the righteous people.
Healthy Appetites?
BismiLlah
Some say that the quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Unfortunately, I think there is some truth to it, but I like to think that besides the stomach and eyes, it could be through the mind. It is then not much of a wonder that to battle one's nafs we need to control both our gaze and food consumption (among other things).
Years ago, while grocery shopping with my Mom, I took a moment to survey my surroundings. I was amazed at what I saw. Amongst rows of neatly piled fruits and vegetables were a variety of different people all intensely examining each item before throwing it into a bag. "Feeding time at the zoo," I told my Mom. She didn't think that was very nice of me to say, so I elaborated a little by saying that while we grocery shop we are all so focused on trying to get the best of something that is far superior anyway that it seems as though we are experiencing hunger pangs - a rare experiential phenomenon in this community.
My selection of fruits or vegetables now is always coupled with the story of one shaykh who would choose the worst of the fruits available so that he could eat them before they were discarded as waste. SubhanAllah.
Food is like a lot of other things in this world. Outwardly, it has immense appeal, but if not used appropriately it can hinder us beyond belief. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him, set the balance for us through Islam. Through him, peace be upon him, we know that there is a tremendous amount of benefit in abstinence, such as through fasting, yet continuous fasting is not the Islamic way because it is a blessing of God to have and appreciate food.
Food is from God, it is by His blessing that we can sow seeds and reap the benefits of them through numerous types of fruits, vegetables, and herbs that potentially provide millions of unique, palate-tantalizing combinations. So again, it is not surprising that it is a farmer's duty (Islamically speaking) to ensure that part of his harvest goes to those in need since the farmer's harvest is not due to his work, but in reality is it a blessing of God to be shared by all.
Western society runs on the concept of continued consumption, but the price that we may ultimately pay for it is much too high. In the words of a wise person, "Be a people of abstinence, not a people of indulgence." That's something worth chewing on for a while.
Some say that the quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Unfortunately, I think there is some truth to it, but I like to think that besides the stomach and eyes, it could be through the mind. It is then not much of a wonder that to battle one's nafs we need to control both our gaze and food consumption (among other things).
Years ago, while grocery shopping with my Mom, I took a moment to survey my surroundings. I was amazed at what I saw. Amongst rows of neatly piled fruits and vegetables were a variety of different people all intensely examining each item before throwing it into a bag. "Feeding time at the zoo," I told my Mom. She didn't think that was very nice of me to say, so I elaborated a little by saying that while we grocery shop we are all so focused on trying to get the best of something that is far superior anyway that it seems as though we are experiencing hunger pangs - a rare experiential phenomenon in this community.
My selection of fruits or vegetables now is always coupled with the story of one shaykh who would choose the worst of the fruits available so that he could eat them before they were discarded as waste. SubhanAllah.
Food is like a lot of other things in this world. Outwardly, it has immense appeal, but if not used appropriately it can hinder us beyond belief. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him, set the balance for us through Islam. Through him, peace be upon him, we know that there is a tremendous amount of benefit in abstinence, such as through fasting, yet continuous fasting is not the Islamic way because it is a blessing of God to have and appreciate food.
Food is from God, it is by His blessing that we can sow seeds and reap the benefits of them through numerous types of fruits, vegetables, and herbs that potentially provide millions of unique, palate-tantalizing combinations. So again, it is not surprising that it is a farmer's duty (Islamically speaking) to ensure that part of his harvest goes to those in need since the farmer's harvest is not due to his work, but in reality is it a blessing of God to be shared by all.
Western society runs on the concept of continued consumption, but the price that we may ultimately pay for it is much too high. In the words of a wise person, "Be a people of abstinence, not a people of indulgence." That's something worth chewing on for a while.
Renewed Perspective
BismiAllah
Travelling has its benefits. Despite the hassles it takes to prepare and actually carry out the venture, the consequences of it never ceases to enlighten me.
I recently returned from a wedding in New York. I would never even be able to imagine a wedding as such since it went beyond sufficient and tapped into the domain of 'dream like' for some. Generally, weddings aren't my thing. I really love to hear of a marriage, but rarely (though there have been exceptions) can fully appreciate the actual wedding reception. AlhamduliAllah, it went well and the families seemed happy.
As I watched from afar, my brother and I sticking together for much of the time, I couldn't help but feel grateful for not ever wanting to have such an extravagant wedding. It's nothing that I can credit myself for, but instead I praise God for protecting me from it.
Travelling often allows one the opportunity to appreciate that which is right under one's nose yet one may fail to appreciate it as fully as it is worth. While I generally recognize my disconnect from certain social and/or cultural practices, I was given the chance to witness that I've been blessed to feel this way. AlhamduliAllah. It is also something that if Allah wills, He could take from me and I could be among those who fall victim to social pressures with little action directed towards protecting me from the consequences of such practices.
The above may seem a little arrogant, and perhaps it is. But while I recognize all that, I also realize how important it is for me to work harder to improve my state of imaan. I may be blessed to not want a certain type of wedding, but this is by no means an indicator of my state in the Hereafter. In fact, I realize that my ability to see where others err is actually quite telling that I am weak and thus I do not focus as heartily on where I err. The people of wisdom work to purify themselves instead of wasting time criticizing others. May Allah bless me and my loved ones with this wisdom, ameen.
May Allah protect us all from earning His wrath, may He make our last moment of life the best moment of our lives, and may He cause us to meet Him in a state which is pleasing to Him, ameen.
Travelling has its benefits. Despite the hassles it takes to prepare and actually carry out the venture, the consequences of it never ceases to enlighten me.
I recently returned from a wedding in New York. I would never even be able to imagine a wedding as such since it went beyond sufficient and tapped into the domain of 'dream like' for some. Generally, weddings aren't my thing. I really love to hear of a marriage, but rarely (though there have been exceptions) can fully appreciate the actual wedding reception. AlhamduliAllah, it went well and the families seemed happy.
As I watched from afar, my brother and I sticking together for much of the time, I couldn't help but feel grateful for not ever wanting to have such an extravagant wedding. It's nothing that I can credit myself for, but instead I praise God for protecting me from it.
Travelling often allows one the opportunity to appreciate that which is right under one's nose yet one may fail to appreciate it as fully as it is worth. While I generally recognize my disconnect from certain social and/or cultural practices, I was given the chance to witness that I've been blessed to feel this way. AlhamduliAllah. It is also something that if Allah wills, He could take from me and I could be among those who fall victim to social pressures with little action directed towards protecting me from the consequences of such practices.
The above may seem a little arrogant, and perhaps it is. But while I recognize all that, I also realize how important it is for me to work harder to improve my state of imaan. I may be blessed to not want a certain type of wedding, but this is by no means an indicator of my state in the Hereafter. In fact, I realize that my ability to see where others err is actually quite telling that I am weak and thus I do not focus as heartily on where I err. The people of wisdom work to purify themselves instead of wasting time criticizing others. May Allah bless me and my loved ones with this wisdom, ameen.
May Allah protect us all from earning His wrath, may He make our last moment of life the best moment of our lives, and may He cause us to meet Him in a state which is pleasing to Him, ameen.
The Other Side... or Not
BismiAllah
As my sister and I perched ourselves on the floor in front of the fireplace, we talked about the quality of blog entries that we've seen, and we both agreed that there aren't a significant number of blogs that either of us have chanced upon that are both insightful and enjoyable reads. Redirecting the conversation, I said, "I know, my blog is boring. I wonder if anyone could make sense of my last post and give it a context." She responded, "Hmm.... well I read it, but I couldn't comment. I thought 'that's Farzeen again.'" I then decided that I would make my next post for her, a little entertaining and a bit of my other side.
Armed with this idea and a half-living laptop (more like half-dying, but I'm trying to be positive), I sat in the living room. As my family watched the news, I proceeded to log into Blogger. The internet connection is faulty on this laptop and especially slow today. As I waited for the Blogger page to load, I turned my attention to the news. There are increased suicide rates among women in Kabul this year, the news reported. Women who are forced to marry or face other cultural problems seek a solution through suicide, worst yet they carry this out by burning themselves to death. My heart dropped. SubhanAllah....The next story was far from uplifting, reporting on a soldier who raped and murdered an Iraqi girl. My jaws clenched.
It is reasons such as these reports that I find it very difficult to sit down, open a door to my thoughts, and still write something light-hearted. With this said though, I don't believe in depressive responses to world atrocities. In fact, I think it is quite ridiculous that people, as pampered in life as I, can respond to the world's problems by reducing their mental health to that of a cabbage via some form of depression. The only point of credit here is that at least it is, shall I say, a noble way to be depressed -- if such a thing is possible.
I also don't believe it is justified to despair (which is distinctly different than being emotionally moved or even upset) over the state of the people today because I believe that to fall into despair would indicate a loss of recognition that there is something greater than all of us and that His plan is ultimately being played out. His, most glorified is He, plan will prevail.
The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, did not despair over people. When the people of Ta'if humiliated him and physically harmed him by getting their community's children to throw stones at the him, the Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed for them. He prayed! That's what we need to do. [Please read this article which discusses why our prayers remain unanswered.] This was the thinking of great leaders, of great people. Another example is that of Sallahadin Ayyubi who was trained in medicine. When his enemy fell ill and the doctors failed to cure him, Sallahadin disguised himself and went into the enemy camp, successfully treated the enemy's leader, and then left again.
What would we do? What do we do?
May the Almighty give us success with Him, and place us among those whom He is pleased with, ameen.
Update: 2006-11-16
Please listen to this lecture: 25 Promises of Allah to the Believers by Shaykh Anwar Al-Awlaki.
As my sister and I perched ourselves on the floor in front of the fireplace, we talked about the quality of blog entries that we've seen, and we both agreed that there aren't a significant number of blogs that either of us have chanced upon that are both insightful and enjoyable reads. Redirecting the conversation, I said, "I know, my blog is boring. I wonder if anyone could make sense of my last post and give it a context." She responded, "Hmm.... well I read it, but I couldn't comment. I thought 'that's Farzeen again.'" I then decided that I would make my next post for her, a little entertaining and a bit of my other side.
Armed with this idea and a half-living laptop (more like half-dying, but I'm trying to be positive), I sat in the living room. As my family watched the news, I proceeded to log into Blogger. The internet connection is faulty on this laptop and especially slow today. As I waited for the Blogger page to load, I turned my attention to the news. There are increased suicide rates among women in Kabul this year, the news reported. Women who are forced to marry or face other cultural problems seek a solution through suicide, worst yet they carry this out by burning themselves to death. My heart dropped. SubhanAllah....The next story was far from uplifting, reporting on a soldier who raped and murdered an Iraqi girl. My jaws clenched.
It is reasons such as these reports that I find it very difficult to sit down, open a door to my thoughts, and still write something light-hearted. With this said though, I don't believe in depressive responses to world atrocities. In fact, I think it is quite ridiculous that people, as pampered in life as I, can respond to the world's problems by reducing their mental health to that of a cabbage via some form of depression. The only point of credit here is that at least it is, shall I say, a noble way to be depressed -- if such a thing is possible.
I also don't believe it is justified to despair (which is distinctly different than being emotionally moved or even upset) over the state of the people today because I believe that to fall into despair would indicate a loss of recognition that there is something greater than all of us and that His plan is ultimately being played out. His, most glorified is He, plan will prevail.
The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, did not despair over people. When the people of Ta'if humiliated him and physically harmed him by getting their community's children to throw stones at the him, the Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed for them. He prayed! That's what we need to do. [Please read this article which discusses why our prayers remain unanswered.] This was the thinking of great leaders, of great people. Another example is that of Sallahadin Ayyubi who was trained in medicine. When his enemy fell ill and the doctors failed to cure him, Sallahadin disguised himself and went into the enemy camp, successfully treated the enemy's leader, and then left again.
What would we do? What do we do?
May the Almighty give us success with Him, and place us among those whom He is pleased with, ameen.
Update: 2006-11-16
Please listen to this lecture: 25 Promises of Allah to the Believers by Shaykh Anwar Al-Awlaki.
Rise Again O Sad One, Rise Again
BismiAllah
How is it that as time passes conditions worsen? Is it that a soul will rot while maintaining its right to exist? Or is it simply that the lump of flesh which is worth more than all worldly commodities is festering beneath my very nose?
Travelling back, I see one who is familiar yet strange. One with contentment. With no plans, one who still achieves beyond thoughtful goals. The mirror shows a transition, providing evidence which proves the guilt of long hopes. Its destructive nature is certain and becomes increasingly ugly when combined with an unsettled soul.
The flavours of the past have their bitterness and are worth avoiding. To seek them again would only lead to increased turmoil, again leading further away from what needs to be sought. The path that once led to tranquility is renewed, though distant from the abode of long ago.
The difficulty comes in taming the nafs which is wildly out of control. Theories will not suffice, as it already harbours ideas but willingly and consistently rejects their application.
What can save such decrepitude?
There is hope for even the worst of conditions, but change needs to occur. Change must occur. A return to truth is in order. But how, pray tell, can this be achieved? Must it be through increased heartache towards what is frivolous to begin with? There must be a better way. Then perhaps it is in resigning oneself to inactivity and no ambitions? Is this the way of wisdom? Perhaps, though likely not. Or maybe, just maybe, it's time to beat the nafs into submission. But who will administer such an order? This is likely to backfire as weakness is the only available executor.
The resolution is within reach. The hurdles are mighty and the terrain is rugged. The soul hangs to these thoughts by a mere few threads. The day of miracles are over. Fall, fall, and fall again, but never be enticed to murder the soul nor sell it to the one who seeks it. Guard it. Fight for it. Pray for it.
O Lord, You know the state of our hearts and minds. You know what benefits us and where we err. I submit to Your greatness and ask that You don't let us sell our souls to the devil. I ask that You give us, this ummah, contentment and strengthen us to fight that which distracts us from sincerity towards You. Give us consistency in our good works, and cause us to have a joyful return to You. Protect us from doing anything that prevents us from experiencing the joy of being with You and those whom You love. Ameen.
How is it that as time passes conditions worsen? Is it that a soul will rot while maintaining its right to exist? Or is it simply that the lump of flesh which is worth more than all worldly commodities is festering beneath my very nose?
Travelling back, I see one who is familiar yet strange. One with contentment. With no plans, one who still achieves beyond thoughtful goals. The mirror shows a transition, providing evidence which proves the guilt of long hopes. Its destructive nature is certain and becomes increasingly ugly when combined with an unsettled soul.
The flavours of the past have their bitterness and are worth avoiding. To seek them again would only lead to increased turmoil, again leading further away from what needs to be sought. The path that once led to tranquility is renewed, though distant from the abode of long ago.
The difficulty comes in taming the nafs which is wildly out of control. Theories will not suffice, as it already harbours ideas but willingly and consistently rejects their application.
What can save such decrepitude?
There is hope for even the worst of conditions, but change needs to occur. Change must occur. A return to truth is in order. But how, pray tell, can this be achieved? Must it be through increased heartache towards what is frivolous to begin with? There must be a better way. Then perhaps it is in resigning oneself to inactivity and no ambitions? Is this the way of wisdom? Perhaps, though likely not. Or maybe, just maybe, it's time to beat the nafs into submission. But who will administer such an order? This is likely to backfire as weakness is the only available executor.
The resolution is within reach. The hurdles are mighty and the terrain is rugged. The soul hangs to these thoughts by a mere few threads. The day of miracles are over. Fall, fall, and fall again, but never be enticed to murder the soul nor sell it to the one who seeks it. Guard it. Fight for it. Pray for it.
O Lord, You know the state of our hearts and minds. You know what benefits us and where we err. I submit to Your greatness and ask that You don't let us sell our souls to the devil. I ask that You give us, this ummah, contentment and strengthen us to fight that which distracts us from sincerity towards You. Give us consistency in our good works, and cause us to have a joyful return to You. Protect us from doing anything that prevents us from experiencing the joy of being with You and those whom You love. Ameen.
The Online Affair
BismiAllah
Let the games begin my friends! The Online World, the amusement park nearest you. Despite the clarity of the situation, it seems sometimes that no one can really figure out how things should work with Muslim brothers and sisters interacting in the real world, never mind the world wide web. So here it is, a chipped-chopped (and probably quite tamed) version of what awaits you online.
In some way, I am a veteran user of the world wide web. I probably first entered a chat room when I was 16 (a thing I've long ceased doing) and have come across some strange individuals. I'm not proud of this extended history, but I can tell you a little something about the way men and women interact, often laced with some story I'd prefer to deny knowing. On the bright side, I can say I've learnt a lot with little risk to maintenance of my dignity.
*bleep*
brother: salam, a/s/l?
-- The most annoying question anyone could ask me online. That's when I consider ignoring them, but feel obliged to answer their shortened prophetic greeting, despite its deviance from the sunnah.
me: Wa 'alaykum assalaam. Does it matter?
-- silence. Success. I don't have to be rude and eventually block this person who has already decided to leave me alone.
*bleep*
brother: Assalaamu'alaykum
-- Ooh, a full prophetic greeting, nice.
me: Wa 'alaykum assalaam
-- If he says a/s/l, I will have to ignore him.
brother: How are you?
-- Hmm.. surprise surprise. He's polite too.
me: AlhamduliAllah, well thanks, and you?
-- Maybe it won't be a/s/l, but the extended way of figuring the same thing out.
brother: AlhamduliAllah, pretty good. I was hoping there was someone who had something worthwhile to talk about. Do you know anything about the importance of the six fasts of Shawwal?
-- Ah, finally, someone who isn't trying to mack.
Henceforth, you enjoy discussing various issues with this person, who obviously seems to use his intellect, coupled with some decent manners, and most importantly an inclination to learn more about Islam. How bad can it be? He knows his limits, you know yours. It's all good, right? Actually, it's not all good. Shaytan's workforce is also employed on the world wide web. Emotions can be expressed, feelings can be shared, and a mutual sense of care can and will likely form. So what's wrong with that? Well, apart from the risk of having to later pick up the pieces of your broken heart and put it together again, it can lead to undisputed acts of haram. Game over.
You may try explaining this interaction to some of your real life friends, but they fail to understand how you can get along with someone who you have never met. You're not sure you can explain it yourself. Most likely the attachment occurs because it means that there is someone, somewhere who is taking the time from life to consider what you have to say and responds to it in a way that makes you feel worthwhile (this can be done with all sincerity, so it's not something that's easy to let go of). Humans are social beings, so there is no doubt some appeal in finding someone who you feel understands you. In fact, psychologists attribute the excitement of marriage (as understood in the West) precisely to the fact that someone has chosen another over every other potential in the entire world. Quite flattering, eh?
We're Muslims, so the bottom line has to come from Islam. The interaction between men and women in Islam is wisely guarded. Different cultures, though all Muslims, approach this situation in different ways. Suffice to say, adultery is common place in society, and we would be fools to think that it doesn't exist among Muslims. I'm telling you it does, as do other illicit relations. We have to set our standards above this.
Consider this. All the prophets and messengers of God came from legit relationships throughout their lineages. From the beginning of time, there is not a single illicit relationship that bore the prophets and messengers (may God's peace and mercy be upon them all). This is a proof of the importance and sacredness of marriage.
It's a bit ironic that I speak about the problems that sisters and brothers may have in figuring out online interactions when physical interactions in daily life itself has been put on the back burner. To each their own. For those who care, here's one way of looking at it. Men and women were created in pairs. When one marries, one becomes connected to an eternal partner. It may be that your spouse goes to Heaven and doesn't find you there and asks for you; and God, in His infinite mercy, removes you from the fires of Hell and unites you with your spouse. That's the greatness of the relationship. That's the honour of it. Why cheapen it by allowing yourself to get involved with others who have not made noble intentions when interacting with you?
You must admit, for a man to engage in close discussions - including but not limited to jokes, expression of his current feelings, life problems, etc. - with a woman that is not his wife is wrong, no? (The same would be true if it were a woman talking to another man who is not her husband.) This type of interaction becomes too intimate for a wise person. Wouldn't it be wronging one's spouse through a form of betrayal? I would say that it is wrong. The same can be said of a single person towards that person's future spouse.
The take home message is this, "If you have no shame, do what you will." But if you do have some shame, assess the situation as objectively as you can. Sometimes it gets tough, so if you have some trouble, consult one whose opinion you respect. Don't follow your nafs, and when that red light goes off, pay attention and respond appropriately. It's completely okay to consider marrying one who you have met online, but I warn you to consult people of wisdom and to continue the process in the right way (by the book, that is, inform your families and proceed through a third party).
Keep in mind, mixed-gendered relationships are sneaky. Sometimes the other person is emotionally moved by the interaction, where you may not be; but you are duty bound to correct the situation and take steps to terminate the interaction when you sense trouble.
Finally, I remind myself foremost, and ask that you, too, remember this: Illusory trust is a secured foe. You deserve better than an illusion.
For more information, read this.
Let the games begin my friends! The Online World, the amusement park nearest you. Despite the clarity of the situation, it seems sometimes that no one can really figure out how things should work with Muslim brothers and sisters interacting in the real world, never mind the world wide web. So here it is, a chipped-chopped (and probably quite tamed) version of what awaits you online.
In some way, I am a veteran user of the world wide web. I probably first entered a chat room when I was 16 (a thing I've long ceased doing) and have come across some strange individuals. I'm not proud of this extended history, but I can tell you a little something about the way men and women interact, often laced with some story I'd prefer to deny knowing. On the bright side, I can say I've learnt a lot with little risk to maintenance of my dignity.
*bleep*
brother: salam, a/s/l?
-- The most annoying question anyone could ask me online. That's when I consider ignoring them, but feel obliged to answer their shortened prophetic greeting, despite its deviance from the sunnah.
me: Wa 'alaykum assalaam. Does it matter?
-- silence. Success. I don't have to be rude and eventually block this person who has already decided to leave me alone.
*bleep*
brother: Assalaamu'alaykum
-- Ooh, a full prophetic greeting, nice.
me: Wa 'alaykum assalaam
-- If he says a/s/l, I will have to ignore him.
brother: How are you?
-- Hmm.. surprise surprise. He's polite too.
me: AlhamduliAllah, well thanks, and you?
-- Maybe it won't be a/s/l, but the extended way of figuring the same thing out.
brother: AlhamduliAllah, pretty good. I was hoping there was someone who had something worthwhile to talk about. Do you know anything about the importance of the six fasts of Shawwal?
-- Ah, finally, someone who isn't trying to mack.
Henceforth, you enjoy discussing various issues with this person, who obviously seems to use his intellect, coupled with some decent manners, and most importantly an inclination to learn more about Islam. How bad can it be? He knows his limits, you know yours. It's all good, right? Actually, it's not all good. Shaytan's workforce is also employed on the world wide web. Emotions can be expressed, feelings can be shared, and a mutual sense of care can and will likely form. So what's wrong with that? Well, apart from the risk of having to later pick up the pieces of your broken heart and put it together again, it can lead to undisputed acts of haram. Game over.
You may try explaining this interaction to some of your real life friends, but they fail to understand how you can get along with someone who you have never met. You're not sure you can explain it yourself. Most likely the attachment occurs because it means that there is someone, somewhere who is taking the time from life to consider what you have to say and responds to it in a way that makes you feel worthwhile (this can be done with all sincerity, so it's not something that's easy to let go of). Humans are social beings, so there is no doubt some appeal in finding someone who you feel understands you. In fact, psychologists attribute the excitement of marriage (as understood in the West) precisely to the fact that someone has chosen another over every other potential in the entire world. Quite flattering, eh?
We're Muslims, so the bottom line has to come from Islam. The interaction between men and women in Islam is wisely guarded. Different cultures, though all Muslims, approach this situation in different ways. Suffice to say, adultery is common place in society, and we would be fools to think that it doesn't exist among Muslims. I'm telling you it does, as do other illicit relations. We have to set our standards above this.
Consider this. All the prophets and messengers of God came from legit relationships throughout their lineages. From the beginning of time, there is not a single illicit relationship that bore the prophets and messengers (may God's peace and mercy be upon them all). This is a proof of the importance and sacredness of marriage.
It's a bit ironic that I speak about the problems that sisters and brothers may have in figuring out online interactions when physical interactions in daily life itself has been put on the back burner. To each their own. For those who care, here's one way of looking at it. Men and women were created in pairs. When one marries, one becomes connected to an eternal partner. It may be that your spouse goes to Heaven and doesn't find you there and asks for you; and God, in His infinite mercy, removes you from the fires of Hell and unites you with your spouse. That's the greatness of the relationship. That's the honour of it. Why cheapen it by allowing yourself to get involved with others who have not made noble intentions when interacting with you?
You must admit, for a man to engage in close discussions - including but not limited to jokes, expression of his current feelings, life problems, etc. - with a woman that is not his wife is wrong, no? (The same would be true if it were a woman talking to another man who is not her husband.) This type of interaction becomes too intimate for a wise person. Wouldn't it be wronging one's spouse through a form of betrayal? I would say that it is wrong. The same can be said of a single person towards that person's future spouse.
The take home message is this, "If you have no shame, do what you will." But if you do have some shame, assess the situation as objectively as you can. Sometimes it gets tough, so if you have some trouble, consult one whose opinion you respect. Don't follow your nafs, and when that red light goes off, pay attention and respond appropriately. It's completely okay to consider marrying one who you have met online, but I warn you to consult people of wisdom and to continue the process in the right way (by the book, that is, inform your families and proceed through a third party).
Keep in mind, mixed-gendered relationships are sneaky. Sometimes the other person is emotionally moved by the interaction, where you may not be; but you are duty bound to correct the situation and take steps to terminate the interaction when you sense trouble.
Finally, I remind myself foremost, and ask that you, too, remember this: Illusory trust is a secured foe. You deserve better than an illusion.
For more information, read this.
Raising Clarity, Abasing Deception
BismiAllah
It has a way of spoiling the good of previous experiences and the hope of smoothly reconciling conflicts. It is worse than sighting a rain cloud during a momentous outdoor event. Not only does it burden the carrier, but it also plagues the one who senses its presence. I call it pride.
I have been thinking about this topic for a while, knowing that it is something that plagues the heart, yet ironically it takes a lot of energy to maintain. I believe it to be related to arrogance to some extent, but its relation is best known to those who have studied the diseases of the heart. All I know is that I don't like it, nor do I want it.
Recently, I saw it approaching me. I accepted it, welcomed it, and gave it a home. Yes, I'll do that. It's better for me anyway. If I keep this up, then I'm going to lose out in the end. So I accept your way. I'll have my peace. But I don't have my peace with that because that's not called a resolution for me. It's called proud avoidance, and it continues to eat at me. Sometimes when life throws out a struggle, it's easy to say, "Forget that. I'm beyond that. I don't need that. I'm just going to blah, blah, blah." But we can't just blah, blah, blah. Etiquette and values cannot be dropped because of hardship, rejection, challenges, or internal strife.
I love the feeling of taking a problem and breaking it down until it becomes crystal clear and I see the true worth of it because I know that this is possible with every problem. It's sort of like trying to solve a brain teaser. You know there's an answer, it just takes some time to figure it out. Sometimes though, life doesn't offer a problem. Sometimes it's just a minor nuisance or something that can't quite be articulated as 'bad' but is nonetheless troublesome to the heart. This I consider a challenge, and it is exactly what I almost temporarily reconciled with a dash of pride.
Peace doesn't come from pride, nor contentment. Its sources are clear. We cannot depend on people, but this is not to be understood in the proud way such as "people aren't trustworthy nor reliable and depending on them will only lead to disappointments." Certainly, having expectations of people will lead to disappointments because for the most part we don't have the right to have some of these expectations nor are these expectations all together fair. The reality of it all though is that we each have a place in this world, as do other people. It is very possible to know this place, but we neglect to see it because our hearts are clouded with the other whisperings of our egos.
I only get a glimpse of this place on rare occasions... and how sweet it is. Really, it is one of the sweetest moments. I remember once, years ago, I sat in the car to go somewhere and I remember thinking to myself, "If Allah takes my soul now, I won't miss a thing in this world. I'll be going home." I miss those thoughts because they stemmed from contentment not despair.
My cousin once gave me this frame that says, "Home is where the feet may leave but not the heart." I love reading it because it always reminds me of the reality of human life. Our home is in heaven. That's where our father Adam (peace be upon him) was brought into existence, and that is where we hope to return; and though we may not be there physically, our hearts can be there. Can.
There are just so many distractions in this world. I guess this is why it is so important to have good company, regardless of the ways that we are able to interact with this company. To be able to share with people who live for the eternal is a blessing regardless if it is through telephone conversations, e-mail, the much frowned up chat services, or treasured dinner discussions. However, it is often not easy maintaining relationships without occasionally swallowing one's own pride.
These incoherent thoughts lead to one final thought, and that is that when we forget that we were created to worship God as He wants us to worship Him and to serve Him by following His laws, we end up in trouble. It is necessary to continuously utilize our resources in an effort to get our thoughts and actions back on track -- that is to sincerely strive towards eternal success. This is what this life is all about. It really is. Everything else is just... history.
Update 2006-12-04
I want to clarify one point above regarding my thoughts one day when getting into a car. When I said that I would not miss anything of the world, I did not then mean that I wished for death. SubhanAllah. Please watch this short clip called "Don't Desire Death" for a brief elaboration on the topic.
It has a way of spoiling the good of previous experiences and the hope of smoothly reconciling conflicts. It is worse than sighting a rain cloud during a momentous outdoor event. Not only does it burden the carrier, but it also plagues the one who senses its presence. I call it pride.
I have been thinking about this topic for a while, knowing that it is something that plagues the heart, yet ironically it takes a lot of energy to maintain. I believe it to be related to arrogance to some extent, but its relation is best known to those who have studied the diseases of the heart. All I know is that I don't like it, nor do I want it.
Recently, I saw it approaching me. I accepted it, welcomed it, and gave it a home. Yes, I'll do that. It's better for me anyway. If I keep this up, then I'm going to lose out in the end. So I accept your way. I'll have my peace. But I don't have my peace with that because that's not called a resolution for me. It's called proud avoidance, and it continues to eat at me. Sometimes when life throws out a struggle, it's easy to say, "Forget that. I'm beyond that. I don't need that. I'm just going to blah, blah, blah." But we can't just blah, blah, blah. Etiquette and values cannot be dropped because of hardship, rejection, challenges, or internal strife.
I love the feeling of taking a problem and breaking it down until it becomes crystal clear and I see the true worth of it because I know that this is possible with every problem. It's sort of like trying to solve a brain teaser. You know there's an answer, it just takes some time to figure it out. Sometimes though, life doesn't offer a problem. Sometimes it's just a minor nuisance or something that can't quite be articulated as 'bad' but is nonetheless troublesome to the heart. This I consider a challenge, and it is exactly what I almost temporarily reconciled with a dash of pride.
Peace doesn't come from pride, nor contentment. Its sources are clear. We cannot depend on people, but this is not to be understood in the proud way such as "people aren't trustworthy nor reliable and depending on them will only lead to disappointments." Certainly, having expectations of people will lead to disappointments because for the most part we don't have the right to have some of these expectations nor are these expectations all together fair. The reality of it all though is that we each have a place in this world, as do other people. It is very possible to know this place, but we neglect to see it because our hearts are clouded with the other whisperings of our egos.
I only get a glimpse of this place on rare occasions... and how sweet it is. Really, it is one of the sweetest moments. I remember once, years ago, I sat in the car to go somewhere and I remember thinking to myself, "If Allah takes my soul now, I won't miss a thing in this world. I'll be going home." I miss those thoughts because they stemmed from contentment not despair.
My cousin once gave me this frame that says, "Home is where the feet may leave but not the heart." I love reading it because it always reminds me of the reality of human life. Our home is in heaven. That's where our father Adam (peace be upon him) was brought into existence, and that is where we hope to return; and though we may not be there physically, our hearts can be there. Can.
There are just so many distractions in this world. I guess this is why it is so important to have good company, regardless of the ways that we are able to interact with this company. To be able to share with people who live for the eternal is a blessing regardless if it is through telephone conversations, e-mail, the much frowned up chat services, or treasured dinner discussions. However, it is often not easy maintaining relationships without occasionally swallowing one's own pride.
These incoherent thoughts lead to one final thought, and that is that when we forget that we were created to worship God as He wants us to worship Him and to serve Him by following His laws, we end up in trouble. It is necessary to continuously utilize our resources in an effort to get our thoughts and actions back on track -- that is to sincerely strive towards eternal success. This is what this life is all about. It really is. Everything else is just... history.
Update 2006-12-04
I want to clarify one point above regarding my thoughts one day when getting into a car. When I said that I would not miss anything of the world, I did not then mean that I wished for death. SubhanAllah. Please watch this short clip called "Don't Desire Death" for a brief elaboration on the topic.
Comic Relief
BismiAllah
Sometimes we all need a little bit of comic relief. I'm not complaining about life, praise be to God... "Wondrous is the affair of the believer." With that said though, I do have some comics that hit home for me these days. [My secret hobby of collecting random comics unveils itself.]
I've provided links for them since this blog template doesn't accomodate much width in my posts. My apologies for the inconvenience.
Sometimes we all need a little bit of comic relief. I'm not complaining about life, praise be to God... "Wondrous is the affair of the believer." With that said though, I do have some comics that hit home for me these days. [My secret hobby of collecting random comics unveils itself.]
I've provided links for them since this blog template doesn't accomodate much width in my posts. My apologies for the inconvenience.
This first one is sad in essence, but coming from a crab it isn't too bad...
And this one always cracks me up...
[Calvin and Hobbes - Copyright Watterson/Distributed by Universal Press Syndicate]
Update: 2006-11-12
This one appeared in the Toronto Star shortly after I posted the comics above. Poor Sherman. I think they're going to need some professional help in the lagoon soon.
The Road to Guantanamo
The Road to Guantanamo (Roadside Attractions), Michael Winterbottom and Mat Whitecross' half-feature film, half-documentary about three British youths who spent over two years in military prison for no justifiable reason, is exhausting, depressing, slightly nauseating, and unfortunately necessary. It turns an abstract debate about human rights and the Geneva Conventions into a visceral experience of lived injustice: What if you were rounded up with friends on the eve of your own wedding; shipped to an American airbase to be shackled, beaten, and interrogated; and then sent without trial to languish in a cage in Cuba? [If it isn't working on this page, - as it's not working for me here - you can watch it here.] | |
Update: 2006-11-06
Read this article about a brother's Ramadhan experience while at Guantanamo Bay: The Best of Times
Update: 2006-12-21
Children in Guantanamo
"For me, this path that I walk on, there's only one way."
BismiLlah
Two weeks ago marked the commencement of the last five years of the first half of a full life, the 25th year of life; but no day is guaranteed. No moment is yours except the present. The past is not for you, nor is the future. Only now.
The trees have more stories to tell than I. Slowly slaughtered for the benefit of homo sapiens. The creatures that inhabit these trees know confusion and chaos as they are uprooted from their homes. On bitter days, I envy them. But most days are bright, smiling back at me with the sun and moon. Both embracing me, sheltering me, showing me the truth.
The moon speaks. He sings a song only the attentive eye can hear. We hear with our minds, but can see through our hearts. The sun hums a tune of sweet elegance - inviting, prodding, guiding, reminding us of what we truly are.
Like an emerging butterfly, I shed the cocoon of certainty in myself and others. That which was once seen as a life source will now only cripple me. As a caterpillar, I move on. Every rock, every piece of dirt, every drop of rain affects my way.
It's up to me to decide if what faces me is a window or brick wall. For the blindsighted, it is always a wall. But I cannot accept the same interpretation. A rainbow emerges, and I cannot supress my smile. This, I trust, is my window. The wall is a mirage. Despair floats aimlessly away finding those waiting to entertain it.
The architect plans and sketches only as a past time. The final product is dependent on everything except preconceived blueprints. Thus, no blueprint can be made of the cosmos which uniquely reflect the greatness of the Creator. My microcosmic self acknolwedges only the success of humble submission.
Plus they see what they shouldn't from oppressed babies to thighs [?]
I throw stones at my tongue 'cause it should really keep its peace
I throw stones at my feet 'cause they stray and lead to defeat
A couple of big ones at my heart 'cause the thing is freezing cold
But my nafs, still alive and kicking unstoppable, on a roll
I throw bricks at the devil so I'll be sure to hit him
But first at the man in the mirror so I can chase out the venom."
- Outlandish (featured with Sami Yusuf)
Cleaning House
BismiAllah
Eleven days ago, I spent pretty much the entire day with my sister cleaning a filthy, disgusting kitchen, the likes of which I would never believe could exist had I not seen it with my own eyes. The ironic thing of it all is that 11 days ago we were in the blessed last ten days of Ramadhan, a blessing indeed. So while I scrubbed and inhaled chemicals that surely hindered my breathing capabilities, I neglected cleansing of other pressing matters.
Habib 'Ali Al Jifri mentions in his book, Wayfarers to God that when it comes to cleaning, even our bodies, people do not mind cleaning their own filth, but they are repulsed at the filth of others. Their own filth is perceived as less of a filth, which may be why we have such a challenge purifying ourselves.
Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali said, "The hyprocrite looks for faults; the believer looks for excuses."
Exploration of the science of purification of the soul is surely a lot to chew on, and implementation of it all is battle certainly worth struggling towards.
May God give us success with Him, ameen!
Eleven days ago, I spent pretty much the entire day with my sister cleaning a filthy, disgusting kitchen, the likes of which I would never believe could exist had I not seen it with my own eyes. The ironic thing of it all is that 11 days ago we were in the blessed last ten days of Ramadhan, a blessing indeed. So while I scrubbed and inhaled chemicals that surely hindered my breathing capabilities, I neglected cleansing of other pressing matters.
Habib 'Ali Al Jifri mentions in his book, Wayfarers to God that when it comes to cleaning, even our bodies, people do not mind cleaning their own filth, but they are repulsed at the filth of others. Their own filth is perceived as less of a filth, which may be why we have such a challenge purifying ourselves.
Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali said, "The hyprocrite looks for faults; the believer looks for excuses."
Exploration of the science of purification of the soul is surely a lot to chew on, and implementation of it all is battle certainly worth struggling towards.
May God give us success with Him, ameen!
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