Time is flying by! It’s easy to get wrapped up by the routine of everyday life- between work, class, homework, and the introduction of new challenges, you have to consciously take time out to reflect. We have a whole week off for Eid Break and the opportunity to go back home to visit our families: the type of break that forces us to pause and think about some of the blessings in our lives.
We are a small group of students in this Qalam program. Why were we blessed with this opportunity? How did we get here?
Sheikh ANJ discussed something in class that stuck with me- he mentioned something along the lines of ‘it’s not just about the blessing, it’s also about the whole process of that blessing coming to you’. The process before the blessing is a blessing itself. Think of all those countless, known and unknown blessings that lead to just that one you are reflecting on. Out of the innumerable blessings that allowed us to be a part of this program, the most obvious are the people that facilitated it. Sheikh ANJ reminded us to appreciate them. Many years of parents, siblings, spouses, children, friends, and strangers sacrificing and being supportive. It is humbling when you realize that your small steps are nothing compared to theirs. May Allah (swt) grant us the ability to appreciate others and to benefit those around us. May those who sacrificed for us, supported us, and made dua for us be rewarded by Allah, as we are unable to appreciate them as they deserve. Ameen.