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Gratitude is something I have come to understand through stages, each one reflecting the extent of what I knew at the time. As a mother, I have always felt inclined to set the playing field for my children while simultaneously giving them the independence they need to explore, learn, and simply be. My natural tendency to observe, scope out my surroundings for safety, and remain aware has been a defining trait, one that I attribute to growing up with a strong sense of street smarts. As a mother, these instincts naturally came into play, shaping the way I parented. Over time, I came to realize that physical awareness was only part of a greater wisdom—the wisdom to understand the inherent message I carry within myself and for my children, guiding them with love and understanding.In the grand scheme of life, Allah, in His infinite wisdom, grants us tests that align with our personal knowledge, awareness, gratitude, and desires. He does not set the playing field—we do. Free will grants us autonomy, but it is shaped by our morals and values. For me, my free will was always governed by the nature and needs of my family. Every decision I made was filtered through the lens of what was best for them, extending to everyone I encountered. Most importantly, my autonomy was interwoven with gratitude—but that did not mean I was free from being tested.Within my mind and heart, I have battled difficulties alone. On the surface, my husband and I were a great team—strong parents, good providers, and supportive family members. We managed our household, raised our children, and even balanced the complexities of having his mother live with us. Life, however, is not like filing taxes; you do not simply claim people, pay, and move on. It is constant action—adjusting, responding, fixing, and doing. That is why autonomy is essential—it allows us to recognize our limits, to pause, to recalibrate. As a Muslim, I have learned to collaborate my knowledge with my ability to act in order to clear my path.By 2018, Allah was preparing me for a significant test. I had not yet fully acknowledged the struggles within my marriage, but my awareness was growing. Since 2015, I had experienced a lingering feeling sparked by someone I encountered—an emotion I could not quite define. Out of respect for my boundaries, I kept my distance, allowing it to remain in the background. However, as more truths about my marriage surfaced in 2018, those feelings naturally reemerged as a reflection of my reality. Still, I chose not to indulge them, remaining steadfast in my principles and held true to the inner work I made forgiving my younger self for past vulnerabilities and mistakes.As a mother, I believe the wisdom we carry is what guides our parenting. I also believe that natural laws govern life, and that our children, in some form, inherit the consequences of the things we fail to address. Not everyone agrees with this, but my experiences have led me to hold this belief. In 2019, I faced a challenge that put my personal struggles into perspective. At my daughter's basketball game, my son suddenly fainted. My husband and I immediately picked him up and rushed him outside to assess him. It was a terrifying moment. Though it turned out to be a false alarm, it shook me to my core. That day, the roles shifted—I was reminded that before anything else, I was a mother, and my children were still young. Marriage takes time to build, and even longer to unravel. That experience reinforced the need to put my feelings aside and focus on what was in front of me.But the feelings lingered.Then came 2020, a challenging year as my father’s health deteriorated. Amidst everything happening in my family, I was still wrestling with my emotions. One day, while my husband took the kids to the beach, I visited my parents and sister. On my way home, overwhelmed by frustration, I turned to my dua app and poured my heart into supplications, asking Allah to remove these feelings. Just as I finished my prayers, traffic picked up, and at a red light, I looked to my right—there he was, sitting in the car next to me. Our eyes briefly met before we both turned away. The light turned green, and we drove off, knowing full well there was an inclination to stop and talk. But I did not dare. I would have felt awful to act on those feelings and then return home to my family.That moment was a turning point. It was clear that this was not going away on its own, so I resolved to place my feelings into my prayers. I asked Allah to remove them because I knew what I had at home—love, effort, and time invested. And so, Allah allowed for a pause.Then, in 2021, my father passed away. Grieving while maintaining my role as an engaged and active mother was challenging, but I did it. Meanwhile, my husband’s demeanor toward me changed. He became distant, subtly ignoring me. Yet, we continued upholding the loving family standard we had built. I believe we got lost in translation over the years, and our struggle with connection and bonding had been present from the start.By October 2021, I reached a crossroads. If I wanted the truth, I had to be true to myself. I answered Allah’s call and took my prayers to a deeper level. My mother-in-law had been a living example of devotion, and she inspired me to seek more than just the motions of prayer. My children had grown older, and I was no longer on autopilot. That was the start of my spiritual journey. The more time I spent in prayer, the more I felt Allah’s closeness. His timing is always purposeful, guiding us through our intentions. Life unfolds in tests, and each lesson prepares us for a harder one. The studying is not in books but in action. It is not about memorizing Islamic knowledge—it is about nurturing the core of the soul and the intentions behind it.That is my experience, and I embrace it. My success in drawing closer to Allah was not merely in resisting feelings and maintaining boundaries, but in ensuring that my husband remained the one with whom I shared my life, support, and devotion—despite our struggles. It was in preserving my marriage to the best of my ability and, no matter how vulnerable we may be, holding firm to the principles that truly matter. Feelings are a natural part of life and will always exist, but we are accountable for how we act upon them—whether through words, glances, actions, or even the silence of our emotions. Allah will always reveal the truth we need and are willing to see, and that is how life goes on.&nbsp; "And each and everything they have done is noted in (their) Records (of deeds).And everything, small and big is written (in Al-Lauh Al-Mahfuz already beforehand i.e. before it befalls, or is done by its doer) (See the Quran V.57:22).Verily, The Muttaqun (pious), will be in the midst of Gardens and Rivers (Paradise).In a seat of truth (i.e. Paradise), near the Omnipotent King (Allah, the All-Blessed, the Most High, the Owner of Majesty and Honour)."Quran-Qamar: 52-55

Ob La Di-Ob La Da

My father’s success was often mistaken for a love of money, but in truth, it was a love for the values and security he believed money could provide. Growing up in a country under siege and arriving in America in his early twenties with the American Dream in his heart, his ambitions were both enthusiastic and challenging. The road to stability was never straightforward—trial and error shaped much of his journey, forcing him to repeatedly start from square one, retracing his steps back to the basics.As we seek and pursue happiness, we are always led by the heart’s innermost need. For him, that need was fulfilled through financial security—not for greed, but for the stability and dignity it offered. He wasn’t greedy, but careful. He wasn’t depriving, but reasonable. He wasn’t boring, but simple. He never misled because he was straightforward, believing that even a white lie was still a lie. Indirect dealings didn’t sit well with him, and he never liked borrowing money or using credit cards—he believed cash was king.Yet, his sense of security was never just for himself; he extended it to his loved ones. He wasn’t selfish; his happiness was rooted in the happiness of those around him. Mistrust never sat well with him, and he always hearkened to the truth. Like many Arab fathers of his generation, he carried the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, navigating the constant stress that led so many to battle high blood pressure and walking diabetes. Let’s be real—they weren’t just struggling with financial burdens but also with an identity crisis, trying to balance life’s relentless ups and downs while holding onto who they were.His resilience was forged in hardship. He grew up in a one-bedroom flat at the top of a winding stone staircase, sharing the small space with my grandmother and six siblings, while his father worked in Saudi Arabia, only visiting occasionally. Despite his own struggles, my father always ensured his family felt the grace Allah had given him. A true foodie at heart, he loved gathering us around the table, taking us out to eat, and planning vacations. He never rushed or cut corners—if something was worth doing, it was worth doing right.The simplicity of his retirement was proof of his true nature—his needs were never excessive, only rooted in the basics that brought him peace. He found contentment in the little things, never chasing extravagance but instead cherishing what was essential. Yet, despite his reserved nature, he always extended the grace of what he called happiness to those under his care or hospitality. Whether through a warm meal, a thoughtful gesture, or simply providing a sense of security, his generosity never wavered. His idea of happiness wasn’t loud or boastful—it was steady, consistent, and always shared with those around him.He was a man who remained firmly within his own boundaries. He valued his space and respected that of others, never overstepping or entangling himself in matters that didn’t concern him. He knew when to engage and when to withdraw, understanding that not everything required his presence or input. His sense of self-discipline and restraint wasn’t out of detachment but rather a quiet confidence in his own way of navigating life. He had nothing to prove, no need to be anywhere he didn’t belong, and no interest in anything that didn’t align with his principles.As his daughter, and eventually his right hand, I carried a sense of duty that felt inherited.&nbsp; Since I was twelve, I had the privilege of experiencing the calm version of my father, the version that had already run his race, made his mark, and reached the finish line he had set for himself. By then, the weight he had&nbsp; carried—of building, providing, and securing—had settled into a more reflective stage, where he had the time and patience to extend his knowledge to me. The extra care he gave wasn’t out of obligation; it was intentional, purposeful. He passed down a legacy that wasn’t just about material success, but about the kind of quiet strength that stands the test of time.Above all, his target was always the light, and he left behind a wisdom that continues to shine. To seek security through the values we uphold is to accelerate the process of truly attaining it. Through his journey, he showed us that real success isn’t just about financial means—it’s about the principles that define how we use them.Before my father’s passing, I carried a deep sense of responsibility, knowing he intended to leave me an inheritance. In his final year, my prayers for him were that Allah would only take him when He was fully accepting of him and that he would be granted the honor of being buried on the most blessed day—Friday. Without realizing it, my heart had already made a promise: that whatever he left me, I would use it in a way that served as a source of comfort and admission for his soul—an act of gratitude and duty in acknowledgment of all that he had given me.

Target the Light: Wisdom and Values

Growing up, my dad always told us that "hate" is a strong word. We used the line in a joking manner, but as I entered adulthood, I began to grasp both the power and the fragility of using it as a means of expression. We often throw it around as if it’s a simple, valid way to communicate, yet in reality, there is no justification for it. I began to notice that when we allow it to exist freely in our lives, we unknowingly give it space to grow. The more we reinforce it, the more we become responsible for carrying its weight—a burden that ultimately hinders our ability to find peace.The cruelest thing about this sensitive topic is not just its presence but how we deceive ourselves into justifying it. We wield it in ways that distort its true nature, using it as a weapon rather than seeking a solution. Instead of resolving conflict, we fuel it. Instead of finding clarity, we cloud our judgment. We tell ourselves that our hate is warranted, but in doing so, we block the path to overcoming it.When we nurture or validate our negative actions, we're actually rejecting peace. Before we throw anything away, we must first validate the reasoning behind it. Just as we are taught to hate the sin but not the sinner, we must separate our emotions from the people and situations that trigger them. More importantly, we must stop ourselves from feeling responsible for proving an accusation if we lack the accountability to participate in the solution.The Framework of FaithAs Muslims, our foundation is built upon the six articles of faith, which serve as the guiding principles that shape our sincerity in upholding the five pillars of Islam. Each article of faith affirms the sole proprietor of believing in Allah alone, directing us in our journey through life with the ultimate goal of peace—both within ourselves and in our interactions with others.The prefrontal cortex, the part of our brain responsible for reasoning and emotional regulation, it plays a crucial role in shaping our responses. If we begin to experience negative emotions such as having malice intent or feel jealousy, then we risk the disruption of the balance necessary for learning and understanding to mature. This imbalance leads to impulsive and self-absorbed behaviors that hinder the brain’s natural development. Instead of responding with thoughtfulness, a person consumed by negativity reacts in a way that centers around themselves, failing to recognize the true significance of their participation and response. When someone holds onto resentment, it gradually fosters narcissistic tendencies. This happens because they become fixated on surface-level perceptions, looking for validation and familiarity–overlooking the deeper understanding that comes from genuine connection and reflection. They start to believe that what they see is all there is, dismissing the depth of experiences and emotions that bring true insight into life. Resorting to the need to control outcomes that serve their needs.When we approach the Quran with an open heart, we not only absorb its wisdom, but we also learn how to safeguard our hearts from closing. If we truly pay attention, we will recognize that the Quran serves as a defense against the narcissistic tendencies that emerge when our intentions counteract the peace we're inherently fighting for. It reminds us that peace is not just an abstract ideal but a lived instruction—one that, if ignored, leaves us struggling to control the outcomes of our actions. The Quran’s presence in our lives is not simply because it is owned; it exists to remind us of the soul Allah has entrusted to us in this life. Its guidance is not just a set of laws but a roadmap to returning our soul to Him in the purest form possible when the inevitable moment of our departure arrives. By following its wisdom, we are not just reading—we are actively preparing our hearts, our character, and our deeds for the ultimate reunion with our Creator. To Decide or Knot In today’s world, our understanding of livelihood is often distorted. We are bombarded with distractions, conditioned expectations, and misleading narratives that shape what we perceive as "right." These influences can push us into a survival mode where we make decisions reactively, rather than reflectively. In this state, our vision is clouded. We become fixated on what the surface presents rather than what is truly unfolding beneath it.Decisions are an essential part of life. It shapes our paths, influences our relationships, and determines the direction of our spiritual and personal growth. While there is often pressure to always make the “right” decision, the real challenge is not perfection—it is setting better intentions. Intentions that align with truth, wisdom, and sincerity rather than fear, pressure, or fleeting emotions.Modern decisions are filled with documentation, reports, and long interpretations—all seemingly designed to guide us toward an answer. But the real task is not just in reading and processing information; it is in questioning why this information is presented in the first place. Why is it framed in a particular way? Why are certain details inconsistent, while others remain perfectly aligned? What is the hidden intention behind the way the information is structured?The truth is, decisions should never be made solely based on what the eye perceives. Looks can be deceiving. That is why justice is an essential part of true decision-making—because it requires us to go beyond face value and seek what is fair, balanced, and rooted in truth. It calls on us to use the depth of our knowledge to uncover the probable cause of matters, reminding us that true understanding requires time and effort—surface-level judgment is never enough.Ultimately, allowing any negative tendency to dictate our actions distorts our perception of reality and weakens our ability to think critically in order to regulate emotions. In the context of hate, it becomes an invisible force urging us to misjudge, while all of our life resources and the core of our soul inherently seek peace. When we step back, we realize that what we are truly searching for is understanding. That understanding is what straightens our overall well-being. And in that understanding, we create space for growth, resolution, and ultimately, peace.It is an act of faith—about sincerely seeking clarity and trusting that Allah, the Best of Planners, will grant us the ability to see beyond what is presented—to what truly matters."Allah puts forth a similitude: a (slave) man belonging to many partners (like those who worship others along with Allah) disputing with one another, and a (slave) man belonging entirely to one master, (like those who worship Allah Alone). Are those two equal in comparison? All the praises and thanks be to Allah! But most of them know not." 39:29"And indeed We have put forth for men, in this Quran every kind of similitude in order that they may remember.""Verily, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad SAW) the Book (this Quran) for mankind in truth. So whosoever accepts the guidance, it is only for his ownself, and whosoever goes astray, he goes astray only for his (own) loss. And you (O Muhammad SAW) are not a Wakil (trustee or disposer of affairs, or keeper) over them.""So, the evil results of that which they earned overtook them. And those who did wrong of these [people to whom you (Muhammad SAW) have been sent], will also be overtaken by the evil results (torment) for that which they earned, and they will never be able to escape." "Do they not know that Allah enlarges the provision for whom He wills, and straitens it (for whom He wills). Verily, in this are signs for the folk who believe!" "And Allah will deliver those who are the Muttaqun (pious - see V.2:2) to their places of success (Paradise). Evil shall touch them not, nor shall they grieve." 39:61

Beyond the Illusion

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?&nbsp;"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 heartInsha’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.

Scripted in Sincerity: Surrendered Independence

The journey of life as a Muslim is unique to each soul. No two paths of faith are identical, because no two hearts carry the same weight of experience or understanding. The relationship between a believer and Allah is exclusive, shaped by personal trials, insights, and moments of revelation. This sacred bond has a language of its own—one that speaks to the core of our being and aligns with the depth of our knowledge and sincerity.Allah (SWT) in his infinite wisdom has instilled within each of us the ability to recognize patterns, perceive consequences, and identify the probable causes of events in our lives through the lens of spiritual forensics. This is not merely an intellectual ability but a deeply intuitive and spiritual awareness that allows us to discern truth from falsehood, sincerity from deception, and righteousness from misguidance.When we reflect on our experiences, we find that Allah has given us signs—both external and internal—to analyze and understand the trajectory of our choices. Just as forensic analysis uncovers hidden details, spiritual forensics enables us to trace the root causes of our struggles, uncovering whether they stem from our own actions, neglect, or external influences. This process is not about assigning blame but about refining our awareness, taking responsibility, and realigning with divine guidance.Spiritual forensics is a tool Allah has embedded within us to anticipate consequences, analyze past actions, and strengthen our connection to Him. When we approach life with this awareness, we begin to see that nothing happens randomly. Every hardship, every ease, every unanswered prayer, and every granted blessing carries within it a lesson, a test, or a sign.The more we engage in this process with sincerity and trust in Allah, the more we refine our ability to recognize when we are veering off course. We start to detect warning signs within our own hearts, such as misplaced attachments, ego-driven decisions, or blind reliance on worldly means. Similarly, we learn to recognize confirmations of faith, such as inner peace, clarity, and ease in righteous pursuits.Through spiritual forensics, we embrace the reciprocal relationship between us and Allah—understanding that He guides, but we must take the steps. He reveals, but we must open our eyes. He protects, but we must remain aware. In this way, we become active participants in our faith, using the knowledge and intuition He has gifted us to navigate life with greater certainty and trust in His divine wisdom.The Quran is filled with verses that highlight these indirect ways in which Allah leads us toward the truth, often in ways we may not immediately recognize. Here are some key verses:1. Guidance Through Signs in Creation "We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth." 📖 (Surah Fussilat 41:53)Allah places signs all around us—in the natural world, in our own hearts, and in the events of our lives. These signs gradually unfold, leading sincere seekers toward certainty in faith. 2. Guidance Through Trials and Hardships "And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient. Who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’" 📖 (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:155-156)Challenges and difficulties are not just hardships; they serve as a means of spiritual refinement, reminding us to return to Allah and realign our priorities. 3. Guidance Through Inner Realization "And [by] the soul and He who proportioned it, and inspired it [with discernment of] its wickedness and its righteousness. He has succeeded who purifies it, and he has failed who instills it [with corruption]." 📖 (Surah Ash-Shams 91:7-10)Allah has embedded in every soul an internal compass, an awareness of right and wrong. It is upon us to nurture and follow this innate guidance. 4. Guidance Through Life’s Experiences "Perhaps you dislike something while it is good for you, and perhaps you love something while it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you do not know." 📖 (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:216)Sometimes, what seems like a setback or disappointment is actually guiding us toward something far better. Allah's wisdom is beyond our understanding, and He directs us even when we do not realize it. 5. Guidance Through Subtle Divine Plans "And thus We established Yusuf in the land so that We might teach him the interpretation of events. And Allah has full control over His affairs, but most people do not know." 📖 (Surah Yusuf 12:21)Yusuf (AS) was thrown into a well, sold as a slave, and imprisoned—all seemingly negative events. But every step was part of Allah’s greater plan to elevate him. Similarly, in our lives, Allah’s plan is always unfolding, even when we cannot see it immediately. 6. Guidance Through Divine Intervention in Our Hearts "And He found you lost and guided you." 📖 (Surah Ad-Duha 93:7)Sometimes, without even realizing it, Allah brings clarity to our hearts, leading us out of confusion and toward the straight path. 7. Guidance Through the Gradual Unfolding of Truth "And thus does Allah make clear to you His signs, so that you may reflect." 📖 (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:219)Reflection is key to understanding Allah’s guidance. The more we pay attention, the more we recognize the wisdom behind life’s events.

Guidance is Hidden in Plain Sight

The Ripple of Division and the Call to Unity in the QuranLife often presents us with opportunities to nurture unity and understanding, yet far too often, we find ourselves caught in actions that cause division. These divisions—whether within families, communities, or even within our own hearts—are barely justified. The Quran warns against such unnecessary rifts and provides timeless guidance to safeguard our relationships and spiritual well-being.The story of Prophet Yusuf (AS) in Surah Yusuf offers a profound example of how division, driven by jealousy and unchecked emotions, can lead to harm. His brothers, consumed by envy, plotted against him:"Kill Joseph or cast him out to [another] land; the countenance of your father will [then] be only for you, and you will be after that a righteous people." (Quran 12:9) However, one among them sought a less harmful alternative, saying:"Do not kill Joseph but throw him into the bottom of the well; some travelers will pick him up—if you would do [something]." (Quran 12:10) This episode illustrates how divisions within a family, fueled by jealousy and poor judgment, can spiral into devastating consequences. The brothers’ actions reflect the danger of letting emotions and ego overshadow reason and faith. Yet, the story also reminds us of Allah’s mercy and ability to bring forth wisdom and reconciliation from even the darkest moments.The passing of time has a way of dulling the edges of our missteps. What once felt glaringly wrong may begin to seem insignificant or even validated in retrospect. This distance from self-accountability can invite a dangerous sense of entitlement and self-sufficiency, allowing us to grow comfortable in our estrangement from Allah (SWT) and others. As this false comfort takes root, we may unconsciously perpetuate division in our lives, using it as a script to reinforce the beliefs and habits we wish to keep.But the Quran reminds us of the truth we so often forget: community, togetherness, and the betterment of familial and communal bonds are core to a righteous life. In Surah Aal-e-Imran (3:103), Allah commands:"And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allah (i.e., this Qur'an), and be not divided among yourselves." This verse is not a mere reminder; it is an instruction for living with purpose and harmony. Holding fast to the Rope of Allah requires effort and intention—it is not a passive act but an active choice to strive for unity and leave behind actions that divide us.The Quran further warns against the spiritual and social dangers of division in Surah Al-An’aam (6:159):"Indeed, those who have divided their religion and become sects - you, [O Muhammad], are not [associated] with them in anything." Divisive actions such as judgment, gossip, unchecked jealousy, resentment, dishonesty, secret-keeping, and a lack of boundaries not only harm others but also erode our own souls. These behaviors create a ripple effect of pain and distance—first from Allah, then from others, and ultimately within ourselves.In Surah Al-Anfaal (8:46), Allah (SWT) reminds us of the importance of harmony and patience in overcoming disputes:"And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute (with one another) lest you lose courage and your strength departs, and be patient." This divine wisdom is not a mere suggestion; it is the framework for living a life that uplifts rather than tears down. Division weakens us. It robs us of courage, diminishes our strength, and isolates us from the blessings of unity.Yet, despite our shortcomings, Allah is Most Merciful and Most Wise. The Quran is filled with guidance, but it does not repeatedly remind us of every instruction—because the responsibility to learn, reflect, and act is ours. Allah has already given us the tools we need. Our task is to do the work, to strive daily to improve, and to recognize that this effort is uniquely tailored to each individual’s journey.Unity is not a "one size fits all" solution; it is an ongoing effort of mindfulness and recognition of The One—Allah (SWT). Though this journey may seem daunting, it is not about achieving perfection but about taking sincere, purposeful steps toward meaningful and evident betterment.When we let go of harmful actions—whether toward others or ourselves—we create space to draw nearer to Allah. The pain we experience from division hurts for a reason. It is a signal from our soul, a reminder that peace is its natural state. The heart reacts to what the soul hears, and repeated exposure to pain and division only deepens the wounds within.The story of Yusuf (AS) beautifully exemplifies these truths. Despite the betrayal and trials he faced, Yusuf (AS) remained steadfast in his faith, demonstrating patience, integrity, and reliance on Allah. His unwavering trust in Allah not only led to his eventual vindication but also brought healing and unity within his family. This serves as a timeless reminder that by holding firmly to the Rope of Allah and dedicating ourselves to an open heart, we open the door to His blessings, embrace healing, and find the peace our hearts were created to seek.Yusuf (AS) was an example of someone who endured his hardship with integrity and compassion. As we reflect on his story, we are reminded that nurturing understanding, balance, and seeking reconciliation are not just acts of righteousness but pathways to draw closer to Allah (SWT). He is Malik al-Mulk, the Sovereign of all dominion, who upholds us and reveals the truth of our matters. He is Al-Wali, the Patron of care and protection, and Al-Majid, the Glorious One, worthy of praise for both the life we live and the afterlife He has promised.In the reflection of the trials faced by Prophet Yusuf (AS) and the way we are tested in our own lives, we are reminded of the continuous nature of self-assessment:The real test lies not in the challenges themselves but in how we respond to them. It is an ongoing assessment of our patience, responsibility, understanding, and accountability. These qualities are continuously evaluated, as we are constantly presented with opportunities to embody them. The test does not end; it evolves and shifts with the circumstances, but the core assessment remains: How do we align ourselves with the truth and how do we respond to it with integrity? This continual process invites us to grow, refine our character, and remain mindful of our responsibility to ourselves, others, and Allah (SWT). Allah, in His wisdom, Allah has embedded the truth deep within every human being, so when it is presented, it resonates with us on a fundamental level. &nbsp;

Blog | Soul Air Reality

Ob La Di-Ob La Da

Target the Light: Wisdom and Values

Beyond the Illusion

Scripted in Sincerity: Surrendered Independence

Guidance is Hidden in Plain Sight

Unity Over Division