Scripted in Sincerity: Surrendered Independence
Life is a journey of transformation, beginning in dependence and gradually shifting toward independence. From our earliest moments, we are shaped by the teachings, expectations, and experiences that define our sense of self and purpose. Just as we learn how to navigate the world, we are also introduced to faith—taught the morals and values that serve as the foundation of belief. The goal is not simply to know, but to embody righteousness, to guard ourselves from corruption, and to remain true to our original fitrah, despite the countless ways the world seeks to pull us away.
Belief, in its broadest sense, is a shared human experience. Every soul holds onto something—whether it be hope, a higher purpose, or a sense of meaning. But belief in Allah (SWT) is an entirely different depth of conviction. It is the essence of faith itself, the core challenge of existence, and the ultimate test of sincerity. Unlike worldly achievements that can be planned and completed, faith is not an item to check off a list. It is an ongoing, reciprocal bond, cultivated through action, reflection, and unwavering trust.
To believe in Allah is to acknowledge His presence beyond human comprehension, to trust that His wisdom surpasses our expectations, and to accept that His grace reaches whom He wills. True faith requires consistency—a commitment to integrity and a willingness to embody the character of one who submits to Him. It is not about seeking perfection, but about seeking Him—again and again—in all that we do.
As life unfolds, it reflects what we hold within—our knowledge, aspirations, and sincerity. Some things require patience, while others demand boldness. Striking the balance means knowing when to embrace, when to let go, and when to trust in divine timing.
True equality is found in tawhid—the oneness of Allah. When we internalize this reality, we understand that our focus should not be on comparison, but on refining our own intentions and actions. We must recognize our limits, respect our boundaries, and evaluate ourselves not by fleeting worldly measures, but by what we are sincerely offering to Allah.
Tawhid is not about developing a rigid, one-track mind, but about continuously aligning our thoughts with the balance it provides. It teaches us to relinquish the illusion of control, to temper our impulses, and to avoid excess. At its core, tawhid calls us to live independently while remaining fully submitted to the laws of the Quran. It is the fairest path to unity—one where independence is shared with respect, understanding, and without competitive judgment or egotistical comparison.
"And when they are called to Allah (i.e. His Words, the Quran) and His Messenger (SAW), to judge between them, lo! a party of them refuse (to come) and turn away."
"But if the right is with them, they come to him willingly with submission."
Allah’s guidance through tawhid is not a burden, but a key to ease—offering clarity, balance, and peace even in life’s greatest trials. Those who embrace it will find that, in surrendering to Him, they gain everything their hearts truly seek.
Ultimately, our lives are a story, a script authored by Allah, unfolding moment by moment. One day, we will see it played back—witnessing the choices we made and the intentions we carried. The question is: what kind of character will we have chosen to embody in the narrative of our own lives?
"Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practise their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah)."
"Verily! This (Verses of the Quran) is an admonition, so whosoever wills, let him take a Path to his Lord (Allah).
But you cannot will, unless Allah wills. Verily, Allah is Ever All-Knowing, All-Wise.
He will admit to His Mercy whom He will and as for the Zalimun, (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) He has prepared a painful torment."
Embracing the concept of Tawhid—the oneness of Allah—encourages a mindset and lifestyle that reflects unity, integrity, and sincerity in all aspects of life. Serving Allah in turn, is to serve ourselves. Below are some ways to implement Tawhid everyday:
1. Guarding the tongue
2. Focusing on our own actions
3. Practicing empathy and respect
4. Seeking knowledge for Allah's sake
5. Seeking purity in our intentions
6. Living with integrity and patience
7. Maintaining purity of the heart
Insha’Allah, we will all bear the fruit of the trees we nurture—the seeds of our intentions, the roots of our sincerity, and the branches of our aspirations—flourishing in the light of Allah’s guidance. May our efforts grow into a shade of mercy, our struggles blossom into wisdom, and our faith stand firm like a tree deeply rooted in His divine will.