Assalaamu alaikum,
Just wanted to drop a quick post to let whoever reads my blog know that I have not forgotten about it! I have been super busy with training that I am hardly able to get onto any social networking sites! Rest assured that everything is going well Alhumdulilah :)
I began a post to talk about the past few days, however I felt that I wasn't putting my words together the way that I wanted them. InshaAllah I will find a way soon, and it will come across well.
But I must allow my soul to return to Allah (subhana wa ta'la) inshaAllah I will be able to keep you updated.
Night and Good Morning/Afternoon brothers and sisters!
-Aisha
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Ramadan Days #10-14
Assalaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakathu!
My apologies! I clearly have been neglecting my blog. I have been crazy busy these past few days. I just moved into residence on Sunday and have entered Res fellow or "Don" training for the next two weeks. This is my excuse for not posting up any entries. Again I apologize greatly!
Alhumdulilah, despite being busy things have been going very well. I am meeting new and interesting people and also met another Muslimah who is so sweet. I also was invited to go for iftar at a sister's home with two friends tomorrow which I am so excited for! I had met this particular sister the day I did my public shahadah and it was circumstantial that I ran into her this month. Alhumdulilah.
Yesterday, I also had a great iftar with two friends, one an old good friend and the other the girl mentioned above. MashaAllah they are two amazing people.
Fasting was a little difficult yesterday though. I got this weird feeling in my chest like it was about to explode! It was a feeling that came and went, but Praise and Thanks to Allah I felt better and didn't prevent me from keeping my fast.
InshaAllah I will be more deligent with my posts, but I will be busy in the next few days. I'm sure I will make an entry after iftar tomorrow (insha'Allah).
May Allah increase our Eeman for the rest of the month and continue to soften our hearts. May He allow us to grasp the deepest understanding of Ramadan and this beautiful deen, Ameen
Aisha
My apologies! I clearly have been neglecting my blog. I have been crazy busy these past few days. I just moved into residence on Sunday and have entered Res fellow or "Don" training for the next two weeks. This is my excuse for not posting up any entries. Again I apologize greatly!
Alhumdulilah, despite being busy things have been going very well. I am meeting new and interesting people and also met another Muslimah who is so sweet. I also was invited to go for iftar at a sister's home with two friends tomorrow which I am so excited for! I had met this particular sister the day I did my public shahadah and it was circumstantial that I ran into her this month. Alhumdulilah.
Yesterday, I also had a great iftar with two friends, one an old good friend and the other the girl mentioned above. MashaAllah they are two amazing people.
Fasting was a little difficult yesterday though. I got this weird feeling in my chest like it was about to explode! It was a feeling that came and went, but Praise and Thanks to Allah I felt better and didn't prevent me from keeping my fast.
InshaAllah I will be more deligent with my posts, but I will be busy in the next few days. I'm sure I will make an entry after iftar tomorrow (insha'Allah).
May Allah increase our Eeman for the rest of the month and continue to soften our hearts. May He allow us to grasp the deepest understanding of Ramadan and this beautiful deen, Ameen
Aisha
Friday, August 20, 2010
Ramadan Day # 8 & 9
Assalaamu alaikum,
Aoudu billahi minash shaytan al-rajeem. Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.
You know I can't believe I just let two days go by without blogging. My apologies! I just realized that today would be day # 10. I think sisters can understand the reasoning for this. Now I must remember what happened or what thought-provoking epiphany has brought me to the current mental and spiritual state I am in.
Despite whatever has caused this slight, but seemingly important personal growth all that needs to be said is All Praise and Thanks is due to Allah.
Through discussions about life's abstract, yet essential and fundamental questions, the reading of an eye-opening book "What is the What," by Dave Eggers, a little leap of faith in sharing something new with someone new and most importantly the amount of dhikr and reflection of what it means to follow Islam my mind is in an elevated state. Sorry for the run-on sentence guys!
InshaAllah (God willing) I will remain in this state and will only get closer.
May Allah increase all of our Iman and be in a constant remembrance of Him so that we can reap the emotional and spiritual benefits of His grace,
Ameen.
- Aisha
Aoudu billahi minash shaytan al-rajeem. Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.
You know I can't believe I just let two days go by without blogging. My apologies! I just realized that today would be day # 10. I think sisters can understand the reasoning for this. Now I must remember what happened or what thought-provoking epiphany has brought me to the current mental and spiritual state I am in.
Despite whatever has caused this slight, but seemingly important personal growth all that needs to be said is All Praise and Thanks is due to Allah.
Through discussions about life's abstract, yet essential and fundamental questions, the reading of an eye-opening book "What is the What," by Dave Eggers, a little leap of faith in sharing something new with someone new and most importantly the amount of dhikr and reflection of what it means to follow Islam my mind is in an elevated state. Sorry for the run-on sentence guys!
InshaAllah (God willing) I will remain in this state and will only get closer.
May Allah increase all of our Iman and be in a constant remembrance of Him so that we can reap the emotional and spiritual benefits of His grace,
Ameen.
- Aisha
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Ramadan Day # 7
Assalaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu!
Day 7 was an interesting day, a day in which I had to overcome another component of a test that all reverts face. Its the test of telling relatives about ones decision to adopt Islam as their religion, their way of life. As mentioned before I already told my Mother and my Aunt; two of the three closest relatives to me. The last, I had to tell was my Grandmother. There were many reasons as to why I held off 5 months in telling her about my decision, many of which are the same justifications for why it was so hard telling my Mother. She has strong reservations against organized religion, has had negatives experiences with religious leaders, and like both me and my Mother, she has a strong personality and would not be shy of telling me every single opinion until her breath ceased her to continue talking.
However, I realized that the time had come for me to tell her. This weekend both my Mother and Grandmother will be coming up to help me move back onto residence. Since I would be fasting I knew I needed the time had come to tell her. Not to mention that fact that this month is the Holy Month of Ramadan, and what better time to tell her!
For the past two days before yesterday I was pining over the prospect of what consequences would occur after telling my Grandmother. To be honest, I was afraid to hear that she was disappointed in me. But every time that I made dua and dhikr assurance overcame me Alhumdulilah. Each utterance of salutations to Allah subhana wa ta'ala was increasing my strength. I knew the time was approaching, where I would be courageous enough to tell her.
Yesterday, was the time. She had reacted how I expected to act, and maybe a bit better than expected Alhumdulilah. Unfortunately, I don't think I was able to express myself the right way, simply because I felt that anything I would say would be criticized and attacked. And they were. "You're too young to make such a big decision." "You haven't experienced life." "You are putting yourself in a box." These were all statements that were thrown at me. However, I am thankful to Allah that these were the only things that were said. I know that some reverts have experienced far more worse experiences than I. But I understand her position. I just told her that I hope that overtime I can help her to better understand why I had chosen this path for myself. InshaAllah that will be the case.
To any converts or people who are thinking about coming into Islam and may be wondering how I managed to overcome my fear of telling my parents. My answer is this; we should not fear man, only our Creator. A brother told me these simple, but beautiful words, "If Allah brings you to it, Allah will bring you through it." How true. However, to any brothers or sisters who fear their lives through telling their parents, waiting for a better time where this threat is no longer present would be the best time to tell them. Until then, remain strong and make tons of duas and pray for Allah to make your situation easy. And remember this, the Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) were facing the same situation as you. And despite their hardships their situations were made easier, and they were rewarded for their commitment and dedication to Islam.
May Allah make the lives easier for those who fear backlash from their families for choosing Islam, and increase their strength and iman, Ameen.
- Aisha
Day 7 was an interesting day, a day in which I had to overcome another component of a test that all reverts face. Its the test of telling relatives about ones decision to adopt Islam as their religion, their way of life. As mentioned before I already told my Mother and my Aunt; two of the three closest relatives to me. The last, I had to tell was my Grandmother. There were many reasons as to why I held off 5 months in telling her about my decision, many of which are the same justifications for why it was so hard telling my Mother. She has strong reservations against organized religion, has had negatives experiences with religious leaders, and like both me and my Mother, she has a strong personality and would not be shy of telling me every single opinion until her breath ceased her to continue talking.
However, I realized that the time had come for me to tell her. This weekend both my Mother and Grandmother will be coming up to help me move back onto residence. Since I would be fasting I knew I needed the time had come to tell her. Not to mention that fact that this month is the Holy Month of Ramadan, and what better time to tell her!
For the past two days before yesterday I was pining over the prospect of what consequences would occur after telling my Grandmother. To be honest, I was afraid to hear that she was disappointed in me. But every time that I made dua and dhikr assurance overcame me Alhumdulilah. Each utterance of salutations to Allah subhana wa ta'ala was increasing my strength. I knew the time was approaching, where I would be courageous enough to tell her.
Yesterday, was the time. She had reacted how I expected to act, and maybe a bit better than expected Alhumdulilah. Unfortunately, I don't think I was able to express myself the right way, simply because I felt that anything I would say would be criticized and attacked. And they were. "You're too young to make such a big decision." "You haven't experienced life." "You are putting yourself in a box." These were all statements that were thrown at me. However, I am thankful to Allah that these were the only things that were said. I know that some reverts have experienced far more worse experiences than I. But I understand her position. I just told her that I hope that overtime I can help her to better understand why I had chosen this path for myself. InshaAllah that will be the case.
To any converts or people who are thinking about coming into Islam and may be wondering how I managed to overcome my fear of telling my parents. My answer is this; we should not fear man, only our Creator. A brother told me these simple, but beautiful words, "If Allah brings you to it, Allah will bring you through it." How true. However, to any brothers or sisters who fear their lives through telling their parents, waiting for a better time where this threat is no longer present would be the best time to tell them. Until then, remain strong and make tons of duas and pray for Allah to make your situation easy. And remember this, the Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) were facing the same situation as you. And despite their hardships their situations were made easier, and they were rewarded for their commitment and dedication to Islam.
May Allah make the lives easier for those who fear backlash from their families for choosing Islam, and increase their strength and iman, Ameen.
- Aisha
Monday, August 16, 2010
Ramadan day #5 and 6
Assalamu alaikum,
Here in Ottawa last night there was a magnificent thunderstorm that woke me up moments before the time for fajr prayer. I lied in my bed in shear awe and fear of the power of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala). When the azan began I woke up to do dhikr and subhanAllah shortly after the azan ended the thunder and lightning ceased.
It is amazing the many signs that surround us everyday, each waking moment. Often times we go about our day forgetting and be neglectful of how clear it is of His existence.
In the evening, the moon was yellow and hung low in the sky almost as if it could simply sit on top one of the buildings that were visible through my apartment window. Two natural miracles made an impact on me today, but there are an infinite amount that are always there.
Here in Ottawa last night there was a magnificent thunderstorm that woke me up moments before the time for fajr prayer. I lied in my bed in shear awe and fear of the power of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala). When the azan began I woke up to do dhikr and subhanAllah shortly after the azan ended the thunder and lightning ceased.
It is amazing the many signs that surround us everyday, each waking moment. Often times we go about our day forgetting and be neglectful of how clear it is of His existence.
In the evening, the moon was yellow and hung low in the sky almost as if it could simply sit on top one of the buildings that were visible through my apartment window. Two natural miracles made an impact on me today, but there are an infinite amount that are always there.
"He has made night and day subservient to you, and the Sun and Moon and stars, all subject to His command. There are certainly signs in that for people who use their intellect."
(Qur'an, 16:12)
May we always be aware of the countless signs from our Creator." Ameen
- Aisha
(Qur'an, 16:12)
May we always be aware of the countless signs from our Creator." Ameen
- Aisha
Storm over Israeli 'abuse' photos - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
Storm over Israeli 'abuse' photos - Middle East - Al Jazeera English
This is just sickens me. Its remarkable, how time, after time the world turns a blind eye to what is happening so openly and blatantly.
Oh Allah, please do not make us ignorant to the injustices of the world and help us to do our best in bettering the lives of those who are suffering. Please protect the oppressed and grant them justice, if not in this dunya then in the akira. Ameen
This is just sickens me. Its remarkable, how time, after time the world turns a blind eye to what is happening so openly and blatantly.
Oh Allah, please do not make us ignorant to the injustices of the world and help us to do our best in bettering the lives of those who are suffering. Please protect the oppressed and grant them justice, if not in this dunya then in the akira. Ameen
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Ramadan Day # 4
Assalaamu alaikum,
Alhumdulilah, yesterday was more of a test on resisting the desire to break fast. Yesterday at work we had to the university residence cafeteria with incoming first-year students. It felt awkward sitting with so many people eating! Not to mention some co-workers talking about how delicious the desserts were. I kept thinking to myself, "I hope the students don't think I am anorexic!" Despite the growling of my stomach, I reminded myself why I am not eating. Alhumdulilah, I was also given the opportunity to do dawah, when a co-worker asked me why I was fasting and she seemed to appreciate the reason. My manager had asked me if I was keeping a blog and I told her I would send it to her.
Later on in the day, I had met up with a non-Muslim friend who had asked me how fasting was going. I told her that it was going well and she had asked some questions which I attempted to answer, may Allah be pleased with my explanations. Unfortunately though, she seemed to not to understand somethings I had told her, especially concerning how I'd like to find a husband or even how I'd like to dress. I realize that some things are hard for non-Muslims to understand, but insha'Allah I will give beneficial explanations to help them understand.
The highlight of day #4 however, was going to the masjid for iftar! I went with the friend who had me over for iftar on the first day. It felt so amazing breaking fast with so many other people and then praying Maghrib with them. Insha'Allah I will be able to go again this month.
I really hope that everyone is having an amazing Ramadan :) May Allah keep us strong and mindful of our intentions, Ameen.
-Aisha
Alhumdulilah, yesterday was more of a test on resisting the desire to break fast. Yesterday at work we had to the university residence cafeteria with incoming first-year students. It felt awkward sitting with so many people eating! Not to mention some co-workers talking about how delicious the desserts were. I kept thinking to myself, "I hope the students don't think I am anorexic!" Despite the growling of my stomach, I reminded myself why I am not eating. Alhumdulilah, I was also given the opportunity to do dawah, when a co-worker asked me why I was fasting and she seemed to appreciate the reason. My manager had asked me if I was keeping a blog and I told her I would send it to her.
Later on in the day, I had met up with a non-Muslim friend who had asked me how fasting was going. I told her that it was going well and she had asked some questions which I attempted to answer, may Allah be pleased with my explanations. Unfortunately though, she seemed to not to understand somethings I had told her, especially concerning how I'd like to find a husband or even how I'd like to dress. I realize that some things are hard for non-Muslims to understand, but insha'Allah I will give beneficial explanations to help them understand.
The highlight of day #4 however, was going to the masjid for iftar! I went with the friend who had me over for iftar on the first day. It felt so amazing breaking fast with so many other people and then praying Maghrib with them. Insha'Allah I will be able to go again this month.
I really hope that everyone is having an amazing Ramadan :) May Allah keep us strong and mindful of our intentions, Ameen.
-Aisha
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Ramadan Day # 3
Assalaamu alaikum,
Hello everyone! I pray that everyone is having an amazing Ramadan thus far!
My apologies for not posting about day #3. Here it is!
Day # 3 was on Friday and I went to Jummah salat. Alhumdulilah it was beneficial to be praying side by side fellow Muslims especially since I was experiencing some frustration the day before. Unfortunately I missed a bit on the Khutbah, AstughfirAllah, but from what I did get the chance to listen to was very beautiful. The khatib spoke about our intentions and how they can drive our success. He referred to the Islamic Golden Age when Muslims were the best architects, engineers, medicinal practitioners, philosophers, etc while the Western world was experiencing the Dark Ages. The khatib ascribed their success due to their intentions to excel at such skills for the sake of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala) when they saw that their communities were in need of such expertise. It made me think, that if I were to go to school for Allah's sake, if I were to help those in my community for Allah's sake I would have the extra drive and push to be the best that I could possibly be. The want to excel wouldn't be for my own personal status or gain in this dunya, but to be worthy of Allah's pleasure and insha'Allah a space in Jannah where I can meet my Lord.
To further establish the khatib's point he had referred to the youth amongst the Sahabas and made the remarkable argument that if these earlier followers of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) were told that they were too young where would our knowledge of Islam be? These are the individuals who were strong and held so much perserverance despite the great oppression that they faced. The khatib told a beautiful story about how he was talking to a class. He explained how he had to come up with a khutbah for the next Jummah salaat. At the end of his class a young girl approached him and handed him 3 pages of paper. He started reading what he was given, and realized it was a khutbah that was properly referenced with hadith and Al-Quran. He had asked the young sister, who wrote this? She replied, "I did." He told us that he had used her khutbah that Friday and there were many members of the congregation that were teary-eyed. SubhanAllah! The young girl was only 13 years-old. This story made me realize that there is nothing that can stop me from doing anything. Just as long as we keep our intentions pure insha'Allah we will have no barriers to do amazing things.
May Allah give us the strength to deflect the negative thoughts that prevent us from doing what we would like to do. And may we only do anything in the name and sake of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala). Ameen.
- Aisha
Terminology Used in this Post
For any non-Muslims who are reading this blog I thought it would help to explain some of the arabic words I'm using.
Assalaamu alaikum: May peace be upon you
Jummah salaat: the Friday prayer where Muslims gather together and pray. There is a sermon or Khutbah that is held before.
Alhumdulilah: All praise and thanks is due to Allah/God
Muslim: one who submits their will to God
Khutbah: sermon
AstaghfirAllah: Allah/God forgive me. Said when we make a mistake intentional/or unintentional
The khatib: one who gives the Khutbah/sermon
Subhana wa ta'ala: is said after saying "Allah" it means may He be gloried and exalted
Dunya: world, this world would refer to life before the Hereafter
Insha'Allah: God Willing
Jannah: Heaven
Sahabah: the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): the Last and Final Messenger/Prophet that God has sent to humanity.
Islam: literally means submission to God. The religion and way of life that Muslims adhere to
Hadith: is a compilation of sayings and actions of the Prophet (peace be upon him)
Al-Quran: Literally means the recitation. It is the Holy Book of Islam that was revealed by God to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The first revelation was given to him in the month of Ramadan.
SubhanAllah: Glory to God
Hello everyone! I pray that everyone is having an amazing Ramadan thus far!
My apologies for not posting about day #3. Here it is!
Day # 3 was on Friday and I went to Jummah salat. Alhumdulilah it was beneficial to be praying side by side fellow Muslims especially since I was experiencing some frustration the day before. Unfortunately I missed a bit on the Khutbah, AstughfirAllah, but from what I did get the chance to listen to was very beautiful. The khatib spoke about our intentions and how they can drive our success. He referred to the Islamic Golden Age when Muslims were the best architects, engineers, medicinal practitioners, philosophers, etc while the Western world was experiencing the Dark Ages. The khatib ascribed their success due to their intentions to excel at such skills for the sake of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala) when they saw that their communities were in need of such expertise. It made me think, that if I were to go to school for Allah's sake, if I were to help those in my community for Allah's sake I would have the extra drive and push to be the best that I could possibly be. The want to excel wouldn't be for my own personal status or gain in this dunya, but to be worthy of Allah's pleasure and insha'Allah a space in Jannah where I can meet my Lord.
To further establish the khatib's point he had referred to the youth amongst the Sahabas and made the remarkable argument that if these earlier followers of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) were told that they were too young where would our knowledge of Islam be? These are the individuals who were strong and held so much perserverance despite the great oppression that they faced. The khatib told a beautiful story about how he was talking to a class. He explained how he had to come up with a khutbah for the next Jummah salaat. At the end of his class a young girl approached him and handed him 3 pages of paper. He started reading what he was given, and realized it was a khutbah that was properly referenced with hadith and Al-Quran. He had asked the young sister, who wrote this? She replied, "I did." He told us that he had used her khutbah that Friday and there were many members of the congregation that were teary-eyed. SubhanAllah! The young girl was only 13 years-old. This story made me realize that there is nothing that can stop me from doing anything. Just as long as we keep our intentions pure insha'Allah we will have no barriers to do amazing things.
May Allah give us the strength to deflect the negative thoughts that prevent us from doing what we would like to do. And may we only do anything in the name and sake of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala). Ameen.
- Aisha
Terminology Used in this Post
For any non-Muslims who are reading this blog I thought it would help to explain some of the arabic words I'm using.
Assalaamu alaikum: May peace be upon you
Jummah salaat: the Friday prayer where Muslims gather together and pray. There is a sermon or Khutbah that is held before.
Alhumdulilah: All praise and thanks is due to Allah/God
Muslim: one who submits their will to God
Khutbah: sermon
AstaghfirAllah: Allah/God forgive me. Said when we make a mistake intentional/or unintentional
The khatib: one who gives the Khutbah/sermon
Subhana wa ta'ala: is said after saying "Allah" it means may He be gloried and exalted
Dunya: world, this world would refer to life before the Hereafter
Insha'Allah: God Willing
Jannah: Heaven
Sahabah: the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): the Last and Final Messenger/Prophet that God has sent to humanity.
Islam: literally means submission to God. The religion and way of life that Muslims adhere to
Hadith: is a compilation of sayings and actions of the Prophet (peace be upon him)
Al-Quran: Literally means the recitation. It is the Holy Book of Islam that was revealed by God to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The first revelation was given to him in the month of Ramadan.
SubhanAllah: Glory to God
Friday, August 13, 2010
Ramadan Day #2
Assalamu alaikum,
Auzu billahi minash shaytan al rajeem. Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem
Day two was an eventful day! AstughfirAllah I had slept through suhoor, because I forgot to set my alarm, Alhumdulilah I didn't miss fajr so yesterday was slightly more difficult than the first.
Unlike the day before, I was at work and thus was surrounded by images of people drinking and eating. I admit it was hard when one of my co-workers were crunching on snow peas before going off to lunch, but by the grace of Allah I wasn't deterred from continuing my fast and eventually managed to ignore it.
One thing that was a bit difficult during fasting yesterday was remaining calm even when something would normally bother me. Instead of responding to a comment I had found offensive I simply went silent and tried to relieve myself of the frustration. The person had approached me realizing that I had become suddenly silent and apologized which was nice. Though admittedly as the day wore on, there was one incident that I had shown clear discontentment. May Allah forgive me for this.
Something interesting actually happened yesterday though. When I was leaving work, my sandal broke and it made it impossible to walk in my shoes. I literally was walking like a duck! I had gone into the bookstore on my university campus and asked for staples and tape. Ridiculous I know! But the thought of potentially walking barefoot was frightening to me, especially considering that I can be somewhat of a "germophobe!" Anyways, after many flimsy staples and pieces of scotchtape I left, walking less strangely as before to catch my bus.
While on the bus I had decided that my shoe would hang in there until I got home, but I was wrong, so very wrong. The staples and tape did not hold up and I decided to take off both of my shoes. Alhumdulilah! It was actually a liberating experience as well as a time to self-reflect. Even though I walked for only 10 minutes, I was given the opportunity to stop and think of the people, some who are our Muslim brothers and sisters, that don't have the simple luxury of protecting their feet. For the most part, there was not much poking or stabbing of my feet, except for when stepping on small pebbles. When crossing the road I was fearful that it would have been worse, but all thanks to Allah (subhana wa ta'ala) I made it through safely. I believe it was a type of spiritual experience that seemed to be accessed after the barrier which was my shoe was removed. Perhaps on day three you should try walking without shoes ha-ha!
Assalamu alaikum,
-Aisha
Auzu billahi minash shaytan al rajeem. Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem
Day two was an eventful day! AstughfirAllah I had slept through suhoor, because I forgot to set my alarm, Alhumdulilah I didn't miss fajr so yesterday was slightly more difficult than the first.
Unlike the day before, I was at work and thus was surrounded by images of people drinking and eating. I admit it was hard when one of my co-workers were crunching on snow peas before going off to lunch, but by the grace of Allah I wasn't deterred from continuing my fast and eventually managed to ignore it.
One thing that was a bit difficult during fasting yesterday was remaining calm even when something would normally bother me. Instead of responding to a comment I had found offensive I simply went silent and tried to relieve myself of the frustration. The person had approached me realizing that I had become suddenly silent and apologized which was nice. Though admittedly as the day wore on, there was one incident that I had shown clear discontentment. May Allah forgive me for this.
Something interesting actually happened yesterday though. When I was leaving work, my sandal broke and it made it impossible to walk in my shoes. I literally was walking like a duck! I had gone into the bookstore on my university campus and asked for staples and tape. Ridiculous I know! But the thought of potentially walking barefoot was frightening to me, especially considering that I can be somewhat of a "germophobe!" Anyways, after many flimsy staples and pieces of scotchtape I left, walking less strangely as before to catch my bus.
While on the bus I had decided that my shoe would hang in there until I got home, but I was wrong, so very wrong. The staples and tape did not hold up and I decided to take off both of my shoes. Alhumdulilah! It was actually a liberating experience as well as a time to self-reflect. Even though I walked for only 10 minutes, I was given the opportunity to stop and think of the people, some who are our Muslim brothers and sisters, that don't have the simple luxury of protecting their feet. For the most part, there was not much poking or stabbing of my feet, except for when stepping on small pebbles. When crossing the road I was fearful that it would have been worse, but all thanks to Allah (subhana wa ta'ala) I made it through safely. I believe it was a type of spiritual experience that seemed to be accessed after the barrier which was my shoe was removed. Perhaps on day three you should try walking without shoes ha-ha!
Assalamu alaikum,
-Aisha
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Ramadan: Day # 1
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu and Ramadan Kareem!
I hope that everyone's first day of Ramadan was easy inshaAllah, although I have heard that it is usually the first day that it is the most difficult.
For me I believe it will be today (day # 2) that will break me in for the rest of the month InshaAllah. Yesterday, the hunger didn't really set in, but I believe that is because my mind was preoccupied with something else. In the evening I broke fast with a friend and her mother and they were very kind to me.
I actually have a video that may serve as a reminder to us on how to eat during suhoor as well as iftar. I can admit that I ate a big dinner and a large enough amount of food during suhoor, yet by filling ourselves up to the point that we want to burst seems to be against what the Prophet (peace be upon him) did. I hope you enjoy this video, keep in mind that this person from what I gather isn't a sheikh so its always best to find a better source.
InshaAllah that you will receive this well and may Allah bestow us Muslims with the ability to observe our fast sincerely, Ameen.
- Aisha
I hope that everyone's first day of Ramadan was easy inshaAllah, although I have heard that it is usually the first day that it is the most difficult.
For me I believe it will be today (day # 2) that will break me in for the rest of the month InshaAllah. Yesterday, the hunger didn't really set in, but I believe that is because my mind was preoccupied with something else. In the evening I broke fast with a friend and her mother and they were very kind to me.
I actually have a video that may serve as a reminder to us on how to eat during suhoor as well as iftar. I can admit that I ate a big dinner and a large enough amount of food during suhoor, yet by filling ourselves up to the point that we want to burst seems to be against what the Prophet (peace be upon him) did. I hope you enjoy this video, keep in mind that this person from what I gather isn't a sheikh so its always best to find a better source.
InshaAllah that you will receive this well and may Allah bestow us Muslims with the ability to observe our fast sincerely, Ameen.
- Aisha
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Night before Ramadan
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu brothers and sisters!
As mentioned in my previous post I said that I would try to blog everyday throughout Ramadan inshaAllah. However, I thought it would be nice to share with you the thoughts and feelings that are floating within me the evening before the first day!
I am so very excited for Ramadan! But to be honest, I was worrying about not being able to reap the benefits of this blessed month. But Alhumdulilah, through the grace of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala) I am more confident about what is to come.
This month, I am looking forward to fasting and breaking fast with the beautiful souls I have met since reverting to Islam. I hope to learn more about Islam and be constantly breathing this amazing deen.
I pray that we all reap the benefits from this Holy Month, be forgiven for our sins, and reach new spiritual heights!
Ameen
-Aisha
As mentioned in my previous post I said that I would try to blog everyday throughout Ramadan inshaAllah. However, I thought it would be nice to share with you the thoughts and feelings that are floating within me the evening before the first day!
I am so very excited for Ramadan! But to be honest, I was worrying about not being able to reap the benefits of this blessed month. But Alhumdulilah, through the grace of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala) I am more confident about what is to come.
This month, I am looking forward to fasting and breaking fast with the beautiful souls I have met since reverting to Islam. I hope to learn more about Islam and be constantly breathing this amazing deen.
I pray that we all reap the benefits from this Holy Month, be forgiven for our sins, and reach new spiritual heights!
Ameen
-Aisha
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Ramadan is Almost Here!
Assalamu alaikum!
Ramadan is quickly approaching and I am both excited and nervous! This year will be my first time fasting and insha'Allah I will be able to reap the many benefits of this Holy month.
I plan to fast everyday insha'Allah, but some of my friends have recommended that I do the best that I can but not to worry if I need to take a break. I am going to try my best to do as much as I can though.
For the month, I'm thinking of blogging everyday insha'Allah about my experiences fasting for the first time. If you are reading, maybe you would like to do the same? Just an idea.
I pray that everyone has a wonderful Ramadan that will help us to become closer to this wonderful deen.
Salaam,
Aisha
Ramadan is quickly approaching and I am both excited and nervous! This year will be my first time fasting and insha'Allah I will be able to reap the many benefits of this Holy month.
I plan to fast everyday insha'Allah, but some of my friends have recommended that I do the best that I can but not to worry if I need to take a break. I am going to try my best to do as much as I can though.
For the month, I'm thinking of blogging everyday insha'Allah about my experiences fasting for the first time. If you are reading, maybe you would like to do the same? Just an idea.
I pray that everyone has a wonderful Ramadan that will help us to become closer to this wonderful deen.
Salaam,
Aisha
Saturday, July 31, 2010
The Blessing is in the Struggle
Lupe Fiasco said it best.
I feel that I am currently experiencing my own inner struggle. Not to say that struggle doesn't face us everyday of our lives, but I think at the moment I am being pulled between two different directions. These two directions are a bit self-labeled; the Truth and the Deception.
The Truth represents; Islam and living, loving and doing for the sake of Allah (swt). The Deception refers to this dunya (world) that the Shaytan al-rajeem (the rejected) uses as a way to deflect us from the path of True knowledge and wisdom.
I think everyone experiences this tug and pull between the two. I pray that we all will have the endurance, strength and blessings of Allah(swt) to overcome Shaytan's attempts to lead us off the righteous path.
Ameen.
-Aisha
I feel that I am currently experiencing my own inner struggle. Not to say that struggle doesn't face us everyday of our lives, but I think at the moment I am being pulled between two different directions. These two directions are a bit self-labeled; the Truth and the Deception.
The Truth represents; Islam and living, loving and doing for the sake of Allah (swt). The Deception refers to this dunya (world) that the Shaytan al-rajeem (the rejected) uses as a way to deflect us from the path of True knowledge and wisdom.
I think everyone experiences this tug and pull between the two. I pray that we all will have the endurance, strength and blessings of Allah(swt) to overcome Shaytan's attempts to lead us off the righteous path.
Ameen.
-Aisha
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
My Apologies
Asssalamu Alaikum!
I haven't written much on my blog in awhile. Part of that reason is because I have started to pay closer attention to a more personal secret blog that I chose not to share with anyone. It acts most like a journal where I talk about some deeper thoughts as well as some poems that I have started to write.
I recently cut a very important person out of my life, and although I know that its for the best and is what Allah (swt) wants for me, I have gotten new inspiration for some thoughts and feelings.
I am sorry for being so vague! But there are just certain things that I don't want the entire world to come across.
I will however, try to make more of an effort to post more on this blog. Insha'Allah I will do a better job at doing so.
Be rest assured however that I am doing very well Alhumdulilah! I'm just enjoying my summer with amazing people and also trying to do a lot of self-reflecting. Perhaps I will post a rendition of my more intimate posts on here soon insha'allah.
Until next time,
God Bless,
-Aisha
I haven't written much on my blog in awhile. Part of that reason is because I have started to pay closer attention to a more personal secret blog that I chose not to share with anyone. It acts most like a journal where I talk about some deeper thoughts as well as some poems that I have started to write.
I recently cut a very important person out of my life, and although I know that its for the best and is what Allah (swt) wants for me, I have gotten new inspiration for some thoughts and feelings.
I am sorry for being so vague! But there are just certain things that I don't want the entire world to come across.
I will however, try to make more of an effort to post more on this blog. Insha'Allah I will do a better job at doing so.
Be rest assured however that I am doing very well Alhumdulilah! I'm just enjoying my summer with amazing people and also trying to do a lot of self-reflecting. Perhaps I will post a rendition of my more intimate posts on here soon insha'allah.
Until next time,
God Bless,
-Aisha
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Name Change
So I just realized that in my earlier posts I had signed off as Aminah and my last post I ended with Aisha. You must all think that I am suffering from a case of multiple personality disorder, but I assure you I am not! After I converted I was thinking about what name was a best fit for me for when I introduce myself to other Muslims. The two names that were in heavy competition were Aisha and Aminah. Aisha (r.a) being the name of the Prophet (s.a.w.s) wife and Aminah, meaning "trustworthy" and the name of the Proohet's mother. After introducing myself as both names to my friends, I have finally settled on Aisha. Thus, for future posts I will sign off with Aisha.
Peace my friends and strangers!
- Aisha :)
Peace my friends and strangers!
- Aisha :)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Al-Jazeera- Island of Music and Murder
As many of you already know, Jamaica is currently undergoing a national emergency. Since my family is from Jamaica I started doing some research on the current events going on there and came across this eye-opening documentary on Al-Jazeera. I hope you find it just as gut-wrenching as I did.
Oh Allah most-Gracious most-Merciful please give strength to the many innocent people in Jamaica and please let there be peace and tranquility in a nation that has seen so many decades of violence and corruption, ameen.
Please make dua for those in Jamaica.
Assalamu alaykum,
Aisha
Oh Allah most-Gracious most-Merciful please give strength to the many innocent people in Jamaica and please let there be peace and tranquility in a nation that has seen so many decades of violence and corruption, ameen.
Please make dua for those in Jamaica.
Assalamu alaykum,
Aisha
Monday, May 24, 2010
Update!
Assalaam alaykum everyone!
As noticed, it has been quite awhile since I last posted something. When I first started this blog I was just in the process of studying for exams, and realized I had to buckle down! After exams, I had come back home from university and had just become busy with seeing family and friends and then went on vacation with my aunt to St. Maarten! These are the excuses I am using for my lack of attention to my blog. So for the few of you who check my blog regularly, I am sorry.
Now after a long hiatus, I have decided to obviously post something! This post is going to be more of a jumble of things floating in my mind at this exact moment!
First, I think I am going to change the purpose of this blog. I will still discuss my journey as a new Muslim, but I'd like to also talk about politics, human rights, travel, love, and life! Just to broaden the horizons, as I am a person who constantly thinks of different things and having a blog so narrowly focused, isn't the best for me! Hopefully, you will all find what I have to say interesting and if you would like to add something, please be free to do so! I love hearing and considering other people's opinions!
In case you were wondering, yes I am still practicing Islam and I actually have told some members of my family about my conversion! The first I told was my Mom, who I was really apprehensive of telling first, due to her critical perspective on religion. She was initially disappointed with my decision, but I think after she realized that I was still the same person she now respects my decision. However, there are times when she says a passing comment that exhibits her misunderstanding of the religion, it really doesn't interfere with our relationship so, Alhumdulilah! The second person I told was my aunt, who had already guessed that was something I had done! So that was made easy. She has been extremely supportive of my decision. In fact when I went on vacation with her she had witnessed me pray countless times and actually begun asking me questions on certain things. Alhumdulilah I was able to give a little bit of dawah (teaching/spreading information about Islam). However, there is one member of my family that I have not yet told, and this is partially the same reason why I didn't tell my Mother right away. She has a strong personality, and would be highly critical. Though I find it interesting, because she is the only one in my family who strongly believes in a Higher Being. InshAllah I will tell her soon and that she will receive it well.
I've been thinking about my journey so far as a Muslim and I began to think about how I started my new life as a Muslim. Two words can express how I was in the very beginning; a religious zealot! This is something that most new Muslims become. I had started to cut things from my life so quickly, and was starting to impose some of my zeal on other people who were close to me that had been Muslim all their lives. AstughfurAllah! (Allah Forgive me.) And I eventually realized that I was overwhelming myself and I needed to slow down! I had started to realize this after a reading a quote from the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s) which had basically said that a convert should not dive deeply into the religion in terms of attempting to do everything all at once, for eventually they will come to feel overwhelmed. My apologies, for I cannot find the exact quotation! Thus, I have realized that I need to progress to be a better Muslim and individual slowly and at one step at a time. So my zeal has calmed down considerably. So at this point my advice to new Muslims is to take things slowly. Obviously it is of utmost importance to learn how to pray and do your five daily prayers and fulfill the five tenants of Islam (declaration of faith, prayer, fasting, zakat, and InshAllah, one day pilgrimage to Mecca.) However, the smaller intricacies of our faith should be developed once we gain a deep understanding of what our faith means to us as individuals, and the beauty of its teachings.
Salam
As noticed, it has been quite awhile since I last posted something. When I first started this blog I was just in the process of studying for exams, and realized I had to buckle down! After exams, I had come back home from university and had just become busy with seeing family and friends and then went on vacation with my aunt to St. Maarten! These are the excuses I am using for my lack of attention to my blog. So for the few of you who check my blog regularly, I am sorry.
Now after a long hiatus, I have decided to obviously post something! This post is going to be more of a jumble of things floating in my mind at this exact moment!
First, I think I am going to change the purpose of this blog. I will still discuss my journey as a new Muslim, but I'd like to also talk about politics, human rights, travel, love, and life! Just to broaden the horizons, as I am a person who constantly thinks of different things and having a blog so narrowly focused, isn't the best for me! Hopefully, you will all find what I have to say interesting and if you would like to add something, please be free to do so! I love hearing and considering other people's opinions!
In case you were wondering, yes I am still practicing Islam and I actually have told some members of my family about my conversion! The first I told was my Mom, who I was really apprehensive of telling first, due to her critical perspective on religion. She was initially disappointed with my decision, but I think after she realized that I was still the same person she now respects my decision. However, there are times when she says a passing comment that exhibits her misunderstanding of the religion, it really doesn't interfere with our relationship so, Alhumdulilah! The second person I told was my aunt, who had already guessed that was something I had done! So that was made easy. She has been extremely supportive of my decision. In fact when I went on vacation with her she had witnessed me pray countless times and actually begun asking me questions on certain things. Alhumdulilah I was able to give a little bit of dawah (teaching/spreading information about Islam). However, there is one member of my family that I have not yet told, and this is partially the same reason why I didn't tell my Mother right away. She has a strong personality, and would be highly critical. Though I find it interesting, because she is the only one in my family who strongly believes in a Higher Being. InshAllah I will tell her soon and that she will receive it well.
I've been thinking about my journey so far as a Muslim and I began to think about how I started my new life as a Muslim. Two words can express how I was in the very beginning; a religious zealot! This is something that most new Muslims become. I had started to cut things from my life so quickly, and was starting to impose some of my zeal on other people who were close to me that had been Muslim all their lives. AstughfurAllah! (Allah Forgive me.) And I eventually realized that I was overwhelming myself and I needed to slow down! I had started to realize this after a reading a quote from the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s) which had basically said that a convert should not dive deeply into the religion in terms of attempting to do everything all at once, for eventually they will come to feel overwhelmed. My apologies, for I cannot find the exact quotation! Thus, I have realized that I need to progress to be a better Muslim and individual slowly and at one step at a time. So my zeal has calmed down considerably. So at this point my advice to new Muslims is to take things slowly. Obviously it is of utmost importance to learn how to pray and do your five daily prayers and fulfill the five tenants of Islam (declaration of faith, prayer, fasting, zakat, and InshAllah, one day pilgrimage to Mecca.) However, the smaller intricacies of our faith should be developed once we gain a deep understanding of what our faith means to us as individuals, and the beauty of its teachings.
Salam
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Food for Thought
I founds this on another sister's blog and it impacted me very positively:
"The purification of our inner being is directly related to our avoidance of blameworthy acts. Examine and test yourself against this standard. Prostrate with humility in the court of Allah subhaanahu wa ta 'aala. Tears flooding from the eyes purify the heart." - Hazrat Zulfiqar Ahmad (db)
"The purification of our inner being is directly related to our avoidance of blameworthy acts. Examine and test yourself against this standard. Prostrate with humility in the court of Allah subhaanahu wa ta 'aala. Tears flooding from the eyes purify the heart." - Hazrat Zulfiqar Ahmad (db)
Learning to Breathe this Deen
Assalamu alaikum!
Islam is a beautiful religion. It encourages and demands us to give to the poor, to have love and compassion between one another, husband and wife, parent and child. It provides inner tranquility and it gives us a sense of assurance. These reasons, among probably an infinite amount of others is what makes this deen so amazing, so awe-inspiring, so breath taking.
Before I reverted or converted (what ever way you'd like to put it) I researched Islam for three years. I knew it was the religion I needed to ascribe to. Allah (Subhana wa ta'ala) gave me too many signs that this was the right Path for me, that if I did anything otherwise I would be granting myself a great disservice. The reasoning for "taking too long to convert/revert?" As silly as it sounded, I wanted to be close to perfect in practicing my faith, I wanted to be able to pray consistently with out faltering, I essentially wanted to be "ready." The day I converted, it was more of a spontaneous occasion. I didn't wake up saying "today is the day I will take my Shahada!" Instead, it was a day when I was stressed about university and all the things that I had to do. But an amazing person who has come into my life, who was the initial reason I looked into Islam in the first place, recognized in me that I was finally ready. And after realizing this myself, tears welled up in my eyes, and I took my Shahada! Wallahi, it was if a whole weight was being lifted off my shoulders! I literally felt the sins of my past disappear, as if it has been lifted off my material and immaterial self! Alhamdulilah!
Prior to this day however, during my three years of research I had always said to myself, I want to convert soon, because what if I were to die tomorrow? Surely, I can't wait to be perfect, because that would take a lifetime! In fact the only one who is perfect is Allah (swt) and to strive for that is surely a mistake AstaghfirAllah. Especially after I converted, I have begun to realize something that I knew before. I will always have struggles to overcome, I will always have an inner jihad, where I will need to put my complete trust in Allah (swt) to cope with. MashAllah my worries about praying have been completely shot out the window! I had prayed 5 times a day about two weeks before I converted, and after I am doing so still. InshAllah, this will continue for the rest of my life.
But to cut to the chase in terms of the meaning of this post's title. What I am referring to, is trying to strive to constantly see the beauty of Allah (swt) and Islam every single day, every single moment. To remember Allah during times when I am thinking about something trivial and meaningless. To always remain in a positive mood and better my character towards others and my family. These are all things I am striving to be able to do. I know it will take time and perhaps a lifetime. But I think I am starting to do so. I am starting to appreciate the days that I have been blessed with, with the people that I have been blessed with, and ultimately with the fact that I have been guided to the Straight Path.
I am not sure if I articulated myself in a way that is understandable to the one who is reading this, but these are the things that are swirling in my mind at the moment.
I hope I wasn't being self-indulgent.
Until next time, may Allah (swt) continue to grant us guidance and instill tranquility in our hearts so that we can learn to be kind to one another and appreciate the many great blessings that He has given us. Ameen.
Islam is a beautiful religion. It encourages and demands us to give to the poor, to have love and compassion between one another, husband and wife, parent and child. It provides inner tranquility and it gives us a sense of assurance. These reasons, among probably an infinite amount of others is what makes this deen so amazing, so awe-inspiring, so breath taking.
Before I reverted or converted (what ever way you'd like to put it) I researched Islam for three years. I knew it was the religion I needed to ascribe to. Allah (Subhana wa ta'ala) gave me too many signs that this was the right Path for me, that if I did anything otherwise I would be granting myself a great disservice. The reasoning for "taking too long to convert/revert?" As silly as it sounded, I wanted to be close to perfect in practicing my faith, I wanted to be able to pray consistently with out faltering, I essentially wanted to be "ready." The day I converted, it was more of a spontaneous occasion. I didn't wake up saying "today is the day I will take my Shahada!" Instead, it was a day when I was stressed about university and all the things that I had to do. But an amazing person who has come into my life, who was the initial reason I looked into Islam in the first place, recognized in me that I was finally ready. And after realizing this myself, tears welled up in my eyes, and I took my Shahada! Wallahi, it was if a whole weight was being lifted off my shoulders! I literally felt the sins of my past disappear, as if it has been lifted off my material and immaterial self! Alhamdulilah!
Prior to this day however, during my three years of research I had always said to myself, I want to convert soon, because what if I were to die tomorrow? Surely, I can't wait to be perfect, because that would take a lifetime! In fact the only one who is perfect is Allah (swt) and to strive for that is surely a mistake AstaghfirAllah. Especially after I converted, I have begun to realize something that I knew before. I will always have struggles to overcome, I will always have an inner jihad, where I will need to put my complete trust in Allah (swt) to cope with. MashAllah my worries about praying have been completely shot out the window! I had prayed 5 times a day about two weeks before I converted, and after I am doing so still. InshAllah, this will continue for the rest of my life.
But to cut to the chase in terms of the meaning of this post's title. What I am referring to, is trying to strive to constantly see the beauty of Allah (swt) and Islam every single day, every single moment. To remember Allah during times when I am thinking about something trivial and meaningless. To always remain in a positive mood and better my character towards others and my family. These are all things I am striving to be able to do. I know it will take time and perhaps a lifetime. But I think I am starting to do so. I am starting to appreciate the days that I have been blessed with, with the people that I have been blessed with, and ultimately with the fact that I have been guided to the Straight Path.
I am not sure if I articulated myself in a way that is understandable to the one who is reading this, but these are the things that are swirling in my mind at the moment.
I hope I wasn't being self-indulgent.
Until next time, may Allah (swt) continue to grant us guidance and instill tranquility in our hearts so that we can learn to be kind to one another and appreciate the many great blessings that He has given us. Ameen.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Assalamu alaikum my Muslim and non-Muslim Brothers and Sisters
Assalamu Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu!
My name is Aminah and Alhumdulilah I am a new Muslimah! I took my Shahada on February 6th, 2010 and thought that I would create a blog to talk about my journey to Islam and what I am currently going through now. However, I may also talk about random thoughts that are swirling in my mind that may or may not be relevant to Islam.
InshAllah my account will help new Muslims and will be of interest for born-Muslims and non-Muslims alike. I thank you for stumbling on my blog. InshAllah, I will have much to say.
May Allah bless you all!
-Aminah
My name is Aminah and Alhumdulilah I am a new Muslimah! I took my Shahada on February 6th, 2010 and thought that I would create a blog to talk about my journey to Islam and what I am currently going through now. However, I may also talk about random thoughts that are swirling in my mind that may or may not be relevant to Islam.
InshAllah my account will help new Muslims and will be of interest for born-Muslims and non-Muslims alike. I thank you for stumbling on my blog. InshAllah, I will have much to say.
May Allah bless you all!
-Aminah
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