Submission

Eid Al-Adha is an important time of year where we as Muslims honor the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his only son Ismail as an act of obedience to God, before God intervened to allow him to sacrifice a sheep instead. We all know the beautiful story, but there is so much more than knowledge that we can attain from this story. The story teaches a multitude of lessons and demonstrates ideal qualities of pious Muslims that we should strive to imitate. Indeed it was the greatest test for Ibrahim: to sacrifice his only son, one born to him after reaching old age and longing for a son for a very long time. Even with that, Ibrahim demonstrated willingness to sacrifice all his belongings to God out of faith and humility. This same submission can be seen in Ismail. After being told the news from his father, Ismail, the pious son of a pious father, was committed to submit to God and give up his own life. This is true faith: to trust Allah in all circumstances in life for He always knows best. This story is the epitome of true trust and submission to God which hundreds of Muslims try to live by. So as we go about our daily lives, there will be times when we don’t want to give things up because it may seem difficult. There will be times when the future will scare us and so we cling to the past. By learning to submit to God in all circumstances of our lives, we learn that in the end, God is the best of planners. If what’s ahead scares you, just remember Allah(swt), the Most High, and go forth in your path with confidence. Give up the worldly desires and submit to God alone, the One who gave you life and continues to help you live.  

A Look in the Mirror

Imagine if mirrors never existed. Imagine for a second that a reflection of you was never seen–such that cameras were never used and when you saw that image in the water, it was never you. Imagine never knowing the appearance of that three-dimensional figure that encompasses your inner thoughts, desires, and dreams. But you wouldn’t be alone. Mirror mirror on the wall, wouldn’t exist for any or all. The only reflection you or any would have, is each other. To keep you in check & to point out your flaws, your friends would be mirrors. Your actions would be mirrors. Your thoughts would be mirrors, and your life; your life would be the ultimate masterpiece made by pieces of your everyday glass, finally mirroring who you really are. Then you will see. You will see that it never mattered your reflection, but what you reflected to the world.