A Traveller Ponders

Man Was Never Meant To Fly

2012-02-03T10:30:00.001+08:00

When we find our wings, we soar. Soaring to great heights till we lose sight of the ground below. We leave the nest, travelling distances far and wide.

Mesmerised by the sights from a whole new perspective, we forget the roots that gave us stronghold.

The individual stripped off humility, gratitude, love and appreciation of life.

Beauty and Blessings

2012-01-22T09:35:00.000+08:00

It was the early morning rain that urged me out of bed. Watching the rain fall, listening to raindrops splashing in the pool, feeling the cool morning breeze. 'Lovely' - the most simple descriptive word for mother nature.

The birds have now started their morning call. I can't help but smile, a sense of calmness and peace arising within me, connecting with the beauty that surrounds.

A Striving Soul

2011-11-18T06:23:00.001+08:00

I'm thankful, grateful
Searching, yearning.
The love I feel so intensely
Though sometimes I fail miserably.

A longing to feel Your closeness, always
At times stumbling,
But I shall never lose hope
For I seek the love You are so willing to give.

So Cold

2011-08-30T17:47:00.004+08:00

On the way to the mosque this morning for my Eid prayers, a friend who has been working with refugees for umpteen years requested a prayer for the refugees and stateless people, and for peace.

When I left the mosque, I texted him, "Have done so. Thank you for the reminder on this day for the less unfortunate. How did the world become so cold...."

Coming Clean

2011-07-30T21:31:00.001+08:00

It's close to night fall and I'm ending the day feeling happy and settled. "Relieved" might be the word to sum up how I am feeling.

Though I can't help feeling a little peeved with myself, having delved in "what ifs" and fears for quite a while, which all seem so ridiculously unnecessary now.

I am pleased too, that I have come to realise the need to be more sensitive, tolerant and understanding; to look beyond my emotions and needs. Hurt, anguish, fear - it envelopes every individual, not just me. I should not dash another's hope and happiness with my opinion, or hurt others due to my own fears.

Speaking up does not guarantee the outcome we desire, but more importantly, it's about being honest and open, clearing the path off suspicions and doubts.

Paint Me A Pretty Picture

2011-07-02T08:23:00.004+08:00

Paint me a pretty picture

Where I let go of all inhibitions,

And feel with all my heart.

Removing the barriers

That has held me in a prison

From unlocked emotions.

To be able to shed hurt,

Confront fears.

Walking away from ugliness,

Enveloped in an artistry of

Longing pleasure,

Experiencing peace, joy, contentment,

Love.

Painting a pretty picture.

A Moment of Solace

2011-06-11T13:17:00.004+08:00

Nature inspires me to find solitude, to search within me, to be free from chains that bind....

Hiding Behind A Mask

2011-06-08T13:10:00.003+08:00

It is so hard to cope with this longing that I feel.
I want to tell you
With the hope that if released from within me,
The emotions arisen
Might be easier to endure.

To venture on a journey where
Strings are not there to bind my emotions,
And to keep me on guard -
It scares me;
I have never been there.

Logic - my faithful friend - has deserted me.

I picture myself walking through a forest of green,
Lost, lost in the world of beauty,
Hoping to find some serenity
From this turmoil within me.

When sadness overwhelms,

I contemplate on telling you

Though I cannot bear the thought of a friendship lost

If the only gain was to bring me ease...

When you don't feel me the way I feel you.

A Driving Force

2011-06-08T11:44:00.003+08:00

Dreams aspire but let's not lose full hold of reality.

Hand in Hand We Care, We Share

2011-03-18T00:37:00.000+08:00

Sorrows fill our hearts in the midst of waves that crash to the shore.
I have shared your joys and now your pain.
At a loss for words though sadness I feel
Not knowing how to help heal.
I can only be with you
If not in presence, in my thoughts.

Life is fragile and it is in times of adversity
When we somehow gain the admirable trait of humility.

Hold on, hang on, we feel with you.

Timely Reminders

2011-01-28T14:18:00.002+08:00

My life's travels has been a virtual up and down ride. I am not complaining and have taken things in stride.

I just ponder that I possibly go astray so often that I need jolting reminders to help me on the right path.

For the first time in my life I dare say I feel happy and contented. For so many years I have been a bud and have finally bloomed within me.

We can plan but we are not the determiners of our life on this earth. I can accept that

A Traveller.

A Startling Reality

2010-12-16T21:23:00.007+08:00

I had the yearly lunch with a friend I have known for 30 years. It was drizzling when I alighted the train but without hesitation decided to make the 20 minute walk to the mall where we were to meet. I walked at my usual pace not letting the rain perturb me.

With big smiles and a hug we greeted each other. The two hours flew by fast and we ended on the note of a recent self-realization. My friend is so sure he knows me well enough to conclude that I am a person who dares to give up all I have and go it alone, to do what I want to do. However, having conformed to surroundings, I hold responsibilities that I will not relinquish but could live without. Yes, he's right.

I hold no resentment for the people who surround me and for where I am now, but it is time to finally start feeding my soul with my needs.

All the Pleasantries

2010-11-10T18:03:00.001+08:00

I was just struck with the notion that one of the roles of life is possibly about pleasing others.

My choice to not be employed was I believed an ideal situation. There was no one to answer to, and no idiosyncrasies and bloated egos to manage. In short, I did not have to work at pleasing others.

Choosing to put pen to paper, it has dawned on me to generate an adequate means of survival, writing is all about pleasing the reader.

Sustaining any form of relationship means pleasing the other party.

I am entertaining the thought of life as a recluse in the outskirts or in the jungle, sustaining one's physical self with a vegetable patch and a smattering of animals. Besides Mother Nature, would there be anyone else to please then?

Pleasing Allah is totally acceptable to me. One way of pleasing Him is to please others, but in what context?

I am currently at a loss as to my thoughts.

Thank you, Spidey!

2010-10-01T08:54:00.001+08:00

This morning I watched a spider attempting to spin it's web in the early morning dew. No matter what the world hurls at us, the web has to keep on spinning.

Heart On A Sleeve

2010-09-30T09:40:00.002+08:00

I speak about honesty and openness though I fail to practice it when it comes to matters of "me".
I shove aside what comes to the surface as I don't want to feel any hurt inside.

So much said, so little expressed.

I want to reach out but how can I -
All is not the way it used to be.
Has my insensitivity led to my words no longer being availed?

Should I even try to explain myself,
Are you wont to give me the time.
Deep down, I wonder, do you feel me.

Solace in Solitude

2010-09-26T17:57:00.001+08:00

Sometimes we hide behind a mask for so long that we tend to forget how we feel deep inside and who we really are.

We take life in stride, avoiding our search for the cravings of heartfelt desires. No doubt our life here is of no permanence but that does not mean we should forgo the bounties of the world that remain within the boundaries of our beliefs.

How heavy the heart and soul is, carrying weights we ought not to bear.

When will I take time to search within me in order to fulfill my life on earth.

A Warm Welcome To You

2010-09-25T08:38:00.002+08:00

Someone thanked me for my "unconditional friendship". It was an unexpected though nice surprise. It got me thinking that I wish we could all be so honest and open with each other. The receiver accepting graciously with an open mind, when the other party intends no malice in his words; just a genuine desire for the betterment of the individual.

A warm welcome to you, my dear friend.

Let's Get Our Act Together

2010-09-24T20:11:00.001+08:00

I'm normally one who minds my own business unless of course an issue drops onto my lap! However, it's rather disturbing when I see the abuse of authority. The sight of unhappy faces and remarks made told the story that all was not going well.

We're talking about occurrences during a blessed month. Mind you, it's not the religion that's the problem. Once again us humans have taken a wrong turn. A mighty wrong turn when self-glorification and worldly desires are placed before subservience to Him.

A web was spun, the innocent entangled victims were obliged to assist. When the observer asked if the situation was fine, the response was, "No trouble at all."

Try we must to put in a few words when things aren't going the way it should be, especially when it comes to serving Him.

If we can't be upfront, we run the danger of harbouring ill-feelings leading to the tendency of backbiting. This thus brings me to say that just yesterday, the observations were confirmed.... I don't care to hear the ugly words uttered - words which would not have arisen if we spoke with heartfelt emotions right from the start.

Stop, To Smell The Roses

2010-09-23T17:42:00.017+08:00

Incidences in our lives happen for a reason. There are times when things aren't going the usual; we are not achieving the desired results; or when tried and trusted measures don't seem to hold any longer.

There comes a point when a shift might just hold the answer. Delve deep within; put aside the uncalled for chains of life that binds us to the unnecessary and ask, where would you really like to picture yourself ten years on.

Seek His guidance, He never fails.

Getting Closer

2010-09-07T11:38:00.000+08:00

Denial isn't going to change the eventual outcome.

It will however, affect the ride.

She Was So Wonderful

2010-09-01T08:57:00.001+08:00

She looked after me so well.
How could I have given up on her?
I can't turn back the time,
Can't right what I did so wrong.
She loved me so much,
Gave up so much for me.
How could I have been so blind.
There are no words to say to her anymore -
She is no longer here.
She passed on without family beside her.
I can't ask her for forgiveness
And am filled with grief.
I have done a grave error
I understand if I can't be forgiven.
But still I try and beg for forgiveness,
My only shot.
I am sorry for being heartless, cruel and not there when she needed me.
I thought I tried my best but I know now it was far from good enough.
I failed in patience, perseverance;
Filled with selfishness.
Am I fit enough to ask for Your Mercy?
I understand if deemed not.
I will have to face the consequences.
I continue to seek forgiveness for all that I have failed to deliver.
Striving on,
Thanking Allah for His reminders.
Please forgive me for my wrong doings.

Pause To Reflect

2010-08-14T01:09:00.000+08:00

At times we need to take a step back in order to realise the potential within us.

Finding A Stronghold

2010-08-14T01:07:00.000+08:00

We sometimes get caught up in the stream of this world and there's a tendency to drift.

Ought Instincts To Play A Part

2010-07-30T08:31:00.000+08:00

How do we ask for forgiveness from someone who is no longer in our midst...

Thy Lord hath decreed

That ye worship none but Him,

And that ye be kind

To parents. Whether one

Or both of them attain

Old age in thy life,

Say not to them a word

Of contempt, nor repel them

But address them,

In terms of honour.

Al-Isra (the Children of Israel), verse 23

And we have enjoined on man

To be good to his parents:

In travail upon travail

Did his mother bear him.

And in years twain

Was his weaning: (hear the command),

Show gratitude

To Me and to thy parents:

To Me is thy final Goal.

Luqman (the Wise), verse 14

We have enjoined on man

Kindness to his parents:

In pain did his mother

Bear him, and in pain

did she give him birth.

The carrying of the child

To his weaning is

A period of thirty months.

At length, when he reaches

The age of full strength

and attains forty years,

He says, "Oh my Lord!

Grant me that I may be

Grateful for Thy favour

Which Thou hast bestowed

Upon me, and upon both

My parents, and that I

May work righteousness

such as Thou mayest approve;

And be gracious to me

In my issue. Truly

Have I turned to Thee

and truly do I submit

to Thee in Islam.

Al-Ahqaf (Winding Sand-tracts), verse 15

Humble Praises

2010-07-11T07:05:00.000+08:00

Thank You!
I love You very much.
You have been there for me
Through thick and thin.
Your mercy and guidance
Knows no bounds.
Umpteen wrongs I have done
Drifted, gone astray
Your guiding hand always behind.
How can I not love You.

May I continue to strengthen in faith
And to stay on the right path
Bearing in mind His ever presence,
His greatness.
There is no one comparable unto Him!

Mere Passages

2010-07-10T08:37:00.000+08:00

Swept under the carpet, swept away or swept off our feet, we just have to deal with it. The world continues to spin on its axis.

Gripping Sand

2010-07-07T22:24:00.001+08:00

Silent night,
Cool breeze.
Reflecting.

Said and done,
Why look back.
Just keep heading on.

Lost So Deep

2010-07-06T12:58:00.009+08:00

Why do I run

From an emotion that feels good,

A never before feeling

So comfortable that it scares me.

"There will come a time we have to make the choice

between what is right and what is easy."

To safeguard the heart (I thought),

I chose the easy way.

I feel I've lost something so precious

In an ocean so deep.

A Winner, In My Eyes

2010-07-05T09:45:00.094+08:00

What started as casual conversations

Revealed kindness, caring and politeness.

Recent months of contact with your amiable disposition,

Happiness has somehow been regained.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you,

I know now what it means to let go.

The connection I could not comprehend

And the answers left unsaid.

For whatever else we each go through in life,

If deemed fit, may the bond remain.

Merci mille fois.

When Will I Stop Running...

2010-06-30T22:51:00.012+08:00

Sometimes weird things do happen and most of the time its not really good or bad. It is just "things" that happen. Being who we are now after discovering so much (about our surroundings and oneself) and going through so many things, unfortunately does not make things much clearer. That is a fact that we have to come to terms with.

What I do know is that happiness is something that everyone of us yearns for and deserves. I believe whatever you have gone through has somewhat helped you to focus on what would make you happy and what you are looking for in a relationship. It's not the "individual" that bothers you, it is more of you continuing to ask yourself "why" are you feeling the way you do now. My advice would be don't do that to yourself. Try not to think too much about where this is heading, but what the journey might be. I know it sounds cliche but that is what happiness is all about. It's a risk.

- Thanks, my dear friend, I understand what you're trying to say. It's the fear of not being in control, not knowing where I'm heading. Yes, you are right, we have to take the journey or we'll never, ever know.... But will I dare to...?

How Do We Define Love?

2010-06-30T21:36:00.002+08:00

A friend going through a difficult time in his relationship with a girl he loves tremendously, is now in the midst of making a decision of what's best for both him and her. Awhile back he posed, "Why shouldn't love be enough?", and of late, "It feels that love is sometimes not enough."

Odd indeed- we need love to start a relationship, but it somehow doesn't sustain one. Or maybe we aren't defining love correctly?

An Unusual Phenomenon

2010-06-23T00:07:00.004+08:00

A never before felt phenomenon has been invading my senses for a while now. With no inkling if the reason will ever be forthcoming, it's time to take the first of many steps forward, bearing in my mind that it might forever remain a mystery.
I leave it in the hands of the Almighty.

A Searching Of The Sensations

2010-06-11T09:37:00.006+08:00

How do you even begin to explain a presence felt though not seen?
How do we describe a closeness felt though not near?
The sudden thoughts that occur with deeds done afar.
These all mystify.

Answers sought, though words unspoken.
Sensations meant to be,
Or a figment of the imagination?

Through Crawling Streets

2010-06-04T13:05:00.001+08:00

This world is but a passing phase
So why seek permanence.
'Tis all a stage;
The determinant is in the role we play.

Careful How We Tread

2010-06-03T00:36:00.000+08:00

Life's experiences changes us and if we go through it with our eyes closed, it won't necessarily be for the better.

No More Conforming

2010-05-31T00:49:00.012+08:00

I catch a glimpse and approach.
We stroll in the calm stream,
Branches tenderly bowing,
The gentle chill on my cheek.

Spoken words as we walk.
Before me, a pool of immense beauty.
Am I to search within me,
Or will I be reaching my destiny?

No Bag of Tricks

2010-05-26T01:49:00.006+08:00

How do we define normal? And if deemed not to fit, what category are the “abnormal” placed in?

Expectations can run high or scepticism sets in – the latter is of no issue. What tires is the incessant questions instead of seeking in God.

Majority does not have to mean conformity.

A First That Baffles

2010-05-26T01:24:00.002+08:00

The instinct to react,
Cannot be explained.

The link that connects,
Beyond comprehension.

Sense of closeness although far,
Visions, emotions trickle through the distance.

No intention of conception,
No means of control.

The explanation forthcoming,
Or a mystery to remain.

I Won't Weep For You

2010-05-20T21:05:00.001+08:00

Oh Little One,
I won’t weep for you today
Allah has smiled upon your heart
And taken you away

Amid thunder and confusion
Your tears and cries so thin
There were angels there beside you
Calling you to him

And though you walked upon the earth
For such a little while
In the playground of forever
You’re running with a smile

So Little One,
I won’t weep for you today
Allah has smiled upon your heart
And carried you away

- lyrics by Zain Bhikha

It Was Five Years Ago

2010-05-20T20:16:00.011+08:00

It has been 5 years since Omar returned. I have vivid memories of pushing Omar in his stroller to watch the birds during our hospital stay of about six months.

The day I was told there was no other option for Omar, I accepted it. I knew the time would come, it was just a matter of when I would hear those words.

Lights off at the hospital. I cried, holding his hand in the crib next to my bed. He had to leave this world.

That same night I had a vision of a handsome young man with long brown hair. He seemed about 17 years in age. He said, "Mom, I'll be fine." A sense of calmness overwhelmed me and I often recall the image of that young man.

Omar spent the last three months of his life on earth at home. My daily du'a was for him to be taken from this world in a peaceful manner.

I heard the call for Maghrib prayer. Omar made a gasp. Instinctly I picked him up. I gazed at him as he let out a few more gentle gasps, then it was just his physical body in my arms.

The beauty of that moment has never left me.
Knowing that Allah had answered my du'a stays in my mind.

Sucked In, Stretched Out

2010-05-20T09:25:00.004+08:00

We never really know what's going to happen. It's like being pulled into a black hole, going thorugh the tidal force and getting ripped apart.

If all is not lost, would we turn out for the better? Or is this all just a hologram?

My Mom

2010-04-15T09:18:00.003+08:00

I walked into my bedroom, heard the birds greeting the early morning and decided to finally have my quiet time; time to reminisce on my Mom. It’s been a week since her passing.

My first memory of my life was as a toddler living in an estate in Semenyih. We lived a distance from town and having three older siblings to play with, there really wasn’t the need for the company of neighbourhood kids. Ah, recollections now of feelings of fascination and curiosity to find a scorpion on the living room floor and our older sister alerting us not to touch it.

It was the norm to come across centipedes and millipedes casually crawling about the house and the garden. I recall yelling, with a mixture of excitement and panic, to my mom, “Snake!” while I was having breakfast on the patio. We got frequent soothing rub-downs with eau-de-cologne after playing in the garden as we’d end up with bumps and itches on our skin.

My Mom, she took it all in stride. I never heard a word of regret or complain for those years spent away from the concrete jungle and friends. In fact, you could hear the fondness in her voice whenever we sat and talked about the past.

We moved to town when I was seven; my eldest sister was 11 then. I doubt if it was of coincidence that we stayed in a house just next to a forest reserve. We four sisters would often spend weekends exploring the jungle. Mom had full confidence in us handling ourselves on our adventures.

Being back in ‘urban’ locale, Mom had her friends over for the occasional lunch. Her curry laksa was the most frequently requested dish. Desserts I eagerly awaited for were Mom’s lemon meringue and apple pie. The birthday parties we used to have when we were young; how did she manage all those dishes single-handedly? Mom did it all with love and passion.

My Mom was always there for us. She was a strict disciplinarian and did not stand for any nonsense. Try going to her and tattle-tale on a squabble with your siblings and she’d say “I don’t want to hear about it, go sort it out amongst yourself”. Though hardly one to show her feelings, you knew she cared and loved us. She taught us to stand up for ourselves.

Goodness wonders how she managed four boisterous girls. There were no chores for us; she never once asked us to help around the house. I ask myself now, “Why?” and, “If only we had realised how much she took on.” From a young age, she was to me “Super Mom” and I always looked to her as a strong woman. Never once did it cross my mind she wasn’t as invincible as she portrayed.

I never saw Mom upset, feeling down or angry. I don’t ever recall her quarrelling with my father. Maybe she kept her emotions and thoughts deep inside. The last year of her life, my Mom suffered from “major depression” as the psychiatrist calls it. What made her go downhill, we can only make assumptions.

When Mom passed on, I asked, knowing I would not receive an answer, “Mom, why did you give up on life, did you not see how much you had going for you?” What triggered her to lose confidence in herself, we will never know. I realise there isn’t any point wondering anymore.

I want to remember her as jovial, confident, dedicated and full of passion for life. She’s my Mom.

May she rest in peace.

No Compulsion

2010-04-02T23:55:00.002+08:00

Guidance comes from Allah
Truth is clear from error
Amin

Unforgettable

2010-03-29T21:33:00.010+08:00

Occasional thoughts throughout the years,
Each wondering about the other.
Where and how...

A conversation sparked off a search,
With a note leading to a familiar voice.
Then and now...

Distance and time has not erased,
Memories and emotions traced.
When and why...

It has taken time to find each other
And now we have, there is no further.
All we hold are treasures deep
The boundary holds us bittersweet.

Hard it might be to carry on,
I don't want to let go of this bond.
Years away and finally,
Friendship it will have to be.

A Shimmer, A Sign

2010-03-11T13:59:00.003+08:00

Both times I had to take control,
With no option but to steer.
Trudging on with heavy shoulders,
I took it all in stride.

I'm tired now,
I want to snuggle up to warmth.

My wants don't necessarily fit to a T,
As plans layed out are best for me.
It's as well things are as deemed to be,
If all was smooth I might just forget Thee.

May I ask to see a shimmer
Of one who cares to watch this soul?

Will there ever be help to man the ship,
Side-by-side, arm-in-arm, a fit.
If deemed to go it all alone,
It's time to stretch, and move head on.

Timely Reminder

2010-03-06T08:49:00.009+08:00

Oh my Lord!
Grant me that I may be
Grateful for Thy favour
Which thou has bestowed
Upon me, and both
My parents, and that I
May work righteousness
Such as Thou mayest approve;
And be gracious to me in my issue.
Truly I turn to Thee
And truly do I submit
(To Thee) in Islam.
- Al-Ahqaf S46 v 15

Be My Guest

2010-03-04T00:16:00.006+08:00

What was never an intention
Has stealthily crept into my thoughts.
I continue to wander ... these recurring visions and sensations.
The curiosity remains.

Oh, to be bold and forge on, or
To make an (absolutely necessary?) about turn.

Should I, need I wait?
Shall I, do I speak?
May I, will I be given a sign?

They say patience is a virtue.
Is it So or No?
Your call.
My pleasure.

Throwing Caution To The Wind

2010-03-03T23:48:00.006+08:00

At times do we perceive things the way they really are,
Or the way we would like them to be?
When perception takes control and we're off on a spin,
Prepare for a nasty fall,
Or delight in a pleasurable landing!

My Search

2010-02-26T13:58:00.003+08:00

A breath of fresh air
I took too far
Thus my practise was in question.
Clear now a short wrong turn I took,
The damage I overlooked.

With all my heart and soul,
May I be forgiven.

Searching, searching for what I lost
The me, the path,
That feeling of closeness.

May I seek for what I yearn.
Lead me, your humble servant, to the straight path.

The Criterion

2010-02-18T10:30:00.011+08:00

"Arghhh!" she says, thumping her fist to her forehead.
"Why ask when all you seek is justifications for your doings?"

Events, shrouded by denial, boomerang and the respondent is made to look guilty while the seeker gets away scot-free.

Or so the seeker thinks.

Bear in mind the All-Knowing.

Upon reflection she concurs, "This could be a test of my patience and perseverance."

And Allah knows best.

"And the servants of Allah Most Gracious
are those who walk on earth in humility,
and when the ignorant address them,
they say, "Peace!"
- Surah Al Furqan (The Criterion), verse 63

Ability, Humility

2010-02-01T01:13:00.008+08:00

When one has a given ability,
Try we should to retain humility
Lest we are thought of as no better.
When it is taken away, we should not then wonder.
May we always stay in the light of reminder.

Some Of Us Don't Think So

2010-02-01T01:07:00.006+08:00

Life in this world is temporary.
Maybe some of us don't share this view.
So people get hurt, the world gets ugly.
When will it stop?

About Time

2010-01-27T00:16:00.008+08:00

I have finally said my piece to clear the air.
Enough of taking the rap and continuous crap
For something I had no part in.
Advise to refrain from talking saved someone else's derrière.
Time to pull out the weed from among the flowers.

Not Down That Path Again...

2010-01-25T13:25:00.000+08:00

Dressed in office attire.
Having a hearty breakfast
Before the drudgery of work.
Chatting, catching up on their lives,
Discussing work issues
Of yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Do they have a say or
Just puppets on a string?
What drives them?
I don't want to get back in this rat race.

Watching Our Steps

2010-01-20T21:46:00.012+08:00

A "moderate", mediocre" or a "fanatic" Muslim? None of these are options.

Muslim fullstop.

We cannot make excuses or come up with reasons for Allah's laws just to keep ourselves in our comfort seat. Allah is the All Knowing, our Creator. Do we, as an individual, have the acquired knowledge to interpret the laws of The All Knowing?

Seek answers from the Qu'ran and Sunnah. Seek with and for, the love of Allah to achieve understanding and acceptance of all He has commanded.

May we achieve taqwa and iman.

Close

2010-01-14T11:01:00.004+08:00

I look at you, you are so frail
Helpless, hopeless or care less - I dare you have the choice.
You sit awake, but are you near?
I speak to you, are you clear?
Or do you choose what you want to hear?

Lax in my duties, my role I fail to play
As with each passing day.
I sit and ponder on what to do
Or am I in a way washing my hands off you?

I can't curtail the way I feel for you
There is a link between we two.
Where does your road lead?
Take my hand, show me,
Talk to me.

I cannot read what's in your mind.
What I'm sure of is,
We are not the determiners of time;
I remind you.
Why,
Why have you given up?

Backwards To Move Forwards?

2009-12-17T12:35:00.005+08:00

Do I go back to being a dreamer to find myself,
Or does the road ahead lead to a new me?

Easier Said

2009-11-28T07:19:00.005+08:00

I felt the cool morning breeze
Sensed the drizzle on my skin
It started to rain
I stood, requesting to wash away my sins
If only it was that easy.

It's Close - You Can't Run

2009-11-22T22:01:00.006+08:00

One man, battered and bloodied,
He went out on his own to fight the war.
The others chose to delay for the worldly.
A brave man, a heroic soldier;
He fought so valiantly
Alone.
No brothers had a clear notion;
Now he lies battered and bloodied.

Run, run, all.
Everyone rushes to gather
They seem to know where to go.

I am approached in the commotion
"You don't look like you should be here,
Cross over."
I don't.

So many of us, so many of the faithful.

But wait.
The other side lurks of the familiar.
Promises are made.
STOP!

But they all go running.
I choose to stay.
My daughter! She runs to go.
I reach for her, she returns.
A quick reminder,
A soothing word, and she is firm.

We two, we stay
And await our fate
As best we can muster.
Giving ourselves strength
With the constant reminder of the surety in the Hereafter.

Why are they running away....

Hadhrat Umar's Dua (Prayers of Supplication) During His Inaugural Address

2009-10-26T21:47:00.012+08:00

O Allah I am hard, make me soft to promote the Truth, to comply with Your injunctions and to aspire to a better life in the world hereafter.

O Allah make me hard for the enemies of Islam and for those who create mischief so that their designs against Allah come to naught.

O Allah I am a miser; make me generous in the promotion of the good.

O Allah save me from hypocrisy. Strengthen my resolves so that whatever I do, I do for the sake of winning Your approbation.

O Allah soften my heart for the faithful so that I attend to their needs with a sense of dedication.

O Allah, I am careless, make me responsible enough so that I do not lose sight of You.

O Allah I am weak in offering my obedience to You; make me active and fortify my faith.

O Allah bestow on me faith, and the power to do good.

O Allah give me the power of self-criticism and self-assessment.

O Allah bestow on me the insight into the meaning of the Qur'an and the strength to act in accordance with what the Qur'an says.

O Allah You are capable of doing anything: bless us with Your favour.

Amin.

From the book - "Hadrat Umar Farooq" by Prof Masudul Hasan

Enlighten Me

2009-10-24T04:45:00.019+08:00

Stay awake, sleepy head.
What do I hear inside my head?
Instructions to go? ... Confusion plays.

Men in a row, keris lie ahead
A brave hand reaches out
And claims his stake.

Symbolic its sign,
Towards a duty to uphold;
Is this the start to what the world awaits?

Am I a witness to what I see?
Or am I in that row awaiting Thee?

A Sad State Of Affairs

2009-10-24T04:35:00.006+08:00

The world is in a sorry state,
Wake up, wake up before it's too late!

We humans fail to heed

2009-10-15T13:47:00.001+08:00

Hold the sword up high,
The time is nigh.
Together united, as one;
Divided we fall.

Wander or Wonder

2009-10-09T15:46:00.004+08:00

It's been a few days and this is on my mind:
The likelihood of a firm establishment when least expected is ... possible or dire imagination ...?

23rd of the Ninth 1430

2009-09-29T07:58:00.010+08:00

Three bearded men dressed all in white. An immense silence with sentiments of peace.
They bow where the arches are white encompassed with gold that seems to glitter from lights reflected off glass walls.
A vision of serenity, humility, subservience.
Allahu Akbar

Accountability

2009-09-09T14:50:00.006+08:00

We can't just sit and wait for things to happen. It won't just happen 'one day' that the light suddenly dawns on you.

Why do we make the choice of going the wrong way when we have been given the intellect? - "Comfort; happiness; my life, my choice?" - Is it really so?

We are all travellers in this world and may we find a shady tree for respite. But don't lose hold of what is ahead of us. No, not in this 'real world', but in Reality.

An End To It

2009-08-20T07:06:00.006+08:00

When unhealthy behavioural aspects take the better of a person and he is overcome by revengeful behaviour, he thus fails to see the possibility of hurting even those he loves.

Moments

2009-08-11T13:46:00.008+08:00

Tender moments past us by
Like dew drops lost in the morning light
Capture we not the beauty,
We fail to see why.

Here I sit among the many
Whose lives have gone by without a tarry
A short time they had to live
Without the burden of sins to carry.

We heed not reminders aplenty
Choose we instead to gorge and plunder

When the chosen time comes,
When we depart
The anguish, the pain, the suffering, the regrets;
The doom we brought upon ourselves

Why oh why mankind, do we choose to fall
Why do we fail when given all
Why did we not strive to achieve
What Allah has decreed

Weak in iman
As knowledge we do not seek
Feeding our souls with hatred and greed

Wisen up I beg you
See the light
Dim it is now, make it bright

Hear the calling and repeat His name
Brotherhood, sisterhood, have we forgotten all?
Reconcile within, and amongst
Strive for the next with no blame and shame.

Freeing Oneself

2009-07-28T23:13:00.003+08:00

By the Soul,
And the proportion and order given to it;
And its inspiration as to its wrong and its right; -
Truly he succeeds that purifies it,
And he fails that corrupts it!

Ash-Shams (The Sun), Ayat 7-10

A View To Behold

2009-07-21T14:17:00.006+08:00

Sitting at my balcony watching the rain fall, listening to the pitter patter of the raindrops, feeling the spray of rain on my face and sensing the cool breeze on my skin.

It's such a beautiful world, why do we humans choose not to see it as so.

Awakening Of The Senses

2009-07-14T23:29:00.015+08:00

I have a phone to make calls and set appointments and reminders. I have a laptop for work and keeping in touch with my friends. I have a car to take me places.

Thank you.

I had wings that were clipped, I was a bird in a cage, I felt like a dog on a leash in a park.
Walking down a dark alley, emotionless, a lone figure.

These are the memories I hold.

I have an empty heart that cannot reciprocate anymore.

Sorry.

And so I move on

To feel the patter of rain on my face,
The caressing of a cool lingering breeze,
To stand barefoot on the sand,
Ignited by the warmth of the sun on my skin.

I feel, I see, I hear, I sense.

Moving on

Many Steps Backwards

2009-07-09T17:50:00.006+08:00

This toying around with Math & Science being taught in the English Language or Bahasa Malaysia has my nerves frazzled.

My daughter has been learning Science & Math in English and I must say it has created an interest in her to watch English Science Programmes & related Documentaries on TV, in addition to reading English books on Science related topics. Both my boys learnt the said subjects in BM. With the comparison, I am rather disappointed we have turned back to BM. I still believe we can work on it by improving the mastering of the English Language whilst continuing with the subjects in English. Now if school children have to master English to do well in Science & Math, then that will keep them on their toes.

From what I read in today's The Star, in year 2012 when my daughter is in Form 3, she will have to start studying Science & Math in BM. How is she going to cope?! Sorry to say, but the stupidity of it.

How do we continue to progress as a Muslim nation if we chose to take steps backwards instead of progressing forwards?

A Thought To Hold

2009-06-18T19:21:00.002+08:00

Life's sorrows - we have to release them before it takes a hold of us.

While We Still Can...

2009-06-17T10:43:00.005+08:00

Life is a trial. May we remember to ask for forgiveness for our misdeeds, be they intentional or unintentional; while we still can....

The Beloved

2009-05-16T08:51:00.004+08:00

At times I wonder, if each human being had 10% of our beloved Prophet Muhammad's (sallallahu 'alayhi wasallam) character, the world would be a much better place. Would even 1% suffice?

Don't Try!

2009-05-05T15:50:00.004+08:00

YOU CAN'T MEND SHATTERED GLASS!

Waited In Vain...

2009-04-21T13:08:00.011+08:00

There was no reciprocation for a hand that reached out,
I waited and waited but in vain...

For my friend, Aida

2009-04-21T12:31:00.028+08:00

In life we go through different terrains
As a new born, we might start on the plains
We get on a boat and ride on a bubbling brook
Sometimes the weather fairs and at times
We bare the windy weather and the cold rain.

The possibility of shooting the rapids!
Should be taken as an experience to learn from
We ponder on in life wondering if we have taken the right route
Be it on the rough seas or a calm one.

We put our faith in Allah and take things in stride
Our trust in the Almighty holds us steadfast.

With our feet firm on land
We walk through deserts and gardens
Stride up hills and climb mountains
To stand in awe at the wonders of our Creator.

To be able to reach our hand out to grasp
The ocean of limitless knowledge waiting to fulfil us
Oh to be filled with the light…

As travellers on this earth
May we always remember that we will one day return to Him.

Aida, may your endeavours in the name of Allah
Be showered with blessings.

You have been a dear friend to me
I appreciate very much your opinions and thoughts
In my search to be a better Muslim.

Take care Aida and may our paths meet again.

Wasalam

Who Sets Us In Motion...

2009-04-09T21:23:00.007+08:00

I sit here - having done my work on my laptop, checked my emails, and now browsing through the news, all whilst sipping my not-so-hot chocolate. Activities surround me and take my thoughts away from my own world. I can't help wonder if each and everyone of us actually know why we do what we do, each day of our lives. Do the individuals at the next table know his or her purpose or are just going through the motions; if so do the individuals ever wonder who sets them in motion?

Which One Is It?

2009-03-16T17:49:00.009+08:00

Sometimes we seek for an answer,

And we receive various responses.

How then do we know the path to take?

Let's Layout The Facts

2009-03-02T01:29:00.010+08:00

Here I sit and tell myself where I am is my own doing.
So is it about time to move on?

I wonder, I ponder,

How do I flourish if I don't grow?

Who Are They Trying To Hoodwink?

2009-02-14T15:34:00.021+08:00

On account of their arrogance in the land and their plotting of Evil.
But the plotting of Evil will hem in only the authors thereof.
Now are they but looking for the way the ancients were dealt with?
But no change wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing):
No turning off wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing)
Sura Fatir, Ayat 43

But when he delivereth them,
Behold! They transgress insolently through the earth
In defiance of right!
O mankind! Your insolence is against your own souls-
An enjoyment of the life of the present:
In the end, to Us is your return,
And We shall show you the truth of all that ye did.
Surat Yunus, Ayat 23

To any that desires the tilth of the Hereafter,
We give increase in his tilth;
And to any that desires the tilth of this world,
We grant somewhat thereof,
But he has no share or lot in the Hereafter
Sura Ash-Shura, Ayat 20

The parable of those who spend their wealth
In the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn:
It groweth seven ears, and each ear hath a hundred grains.
Allah giveth manifold increases to whom He pleaseth:
And Allah careth for all and He knoweth all things.

Those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah,
And follow not up their gifts with reminders
Of their generosity or with injury,-
For them their reward is with their Lord:
On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve
Sura Al-Baqarah, Ayat 261 & 262

It will be said to him:
“Read thine own record: Sufficient is thy soul
This day to make out an account against thee.”
Surat Bani Isrā-īl, Ayat 14

And thou wilt see
Every nation bowing the knee:
Every nation will be called to its Record:
“This Day shall ye be recompensed for all that ye did!

“This Our Record speaks about you with truth:
For We were wont to put on record all that ye did.”
Sura Al-Jāthiya, Ayat 28 & 29

The Familiar Tune

2009-01-31T20:52:00.012+08:00

“Bring!!!” The familiar sound of an alarm clock ringing. Seconds later another and minutes later, another alarm goes off. In this era of technology, mobile phones are abuzz with numerous alert sounds waking us up for the day ahead.

Households are a hive of activity in the mornings, each individual owning an agenda for the day; be it the Math test at school, the ‘deadline dilemma’ at work, or the umpteen household errands to run. Some of us have the pleasure of stretching our sleep time by pressing the snooze button on the alarm clock.

The trusty alarm clock also ensures we don’t miss the football game on TV in the wee hours of the morning, the weekend fishing trip, our early morning jog, the “clinch a million dollar deal” business meeting, and not to mention having to arrive at the golf club by 7am.

Have you ever noticed that there seems to be less “alarm clock activity” over the weekends? And that got me wondering.

How many of us actually switch on our alarm clock with the main intention being to fulfill our Subuh (early dawn) prayer? To ensure we are up before the break of dawn, washed and dressed. Looking out our window, inhaling the fresh, cool air and appreciating the wonders of the heavens whilst eagerly awaiting the call to Prayer.

In the quiet of the morning, we say our doas, seeking to strive on the right path. One foot out the door, and we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, forgetting our intentions and doas made in earnest just that morning.

Come night, after performing our Isya prayer, whilst we sit and contemplate, we realize the “don’ts” that we have done for the day. The things we vowed not to do, the words that should not have been spoken, the uncharacteristic behaviour we ought not to have portrayed.

Everyday poses a new beginning, a new learning experience. Be it at home, at work, at school and within the community. With each new day, do we strive to keep Him in remembrance constantly whilst we walk in this world?

Sometimes I wonder if we have forgotten our sole purpose in life.

The Lure of Kellie's Castle

2008-12-27T15:48:00.026+08:00

I finally made a trip to Kellie's Castle in Perak! Transportation was one of the reasons for the delay and thus with my spiffy new MyVi(!!!) my children, sisters, nephews & nieces and yours truly, visited the "castle" on Boxing Day. We enjoyed exploring the nooks and crannies, and the garden was pleasant.

I won't go into the history of Kellie's Castle as there are numerous variations of this on the internet. However instead of the usual pic of the front exterior of the castle, enjoy other views of the exterior and look within its walls!
BubbleShare: Share photos - Easy Photo Sharing

Unaware or Just Don't Care?

2008-11-17T14:03:00.008+08:00

I've been in pain the past week - went to the dentist with a slight pain in my gum, came back home with two cavities filled. Ended up with one week of a throbbing headache and tooth/gum-ache. Dentist then took an x-ray and says I have a gum problem; remedy - increase Vit C and Calcium intake and live with the pain.

Got a second opinion this morning (through life's experiences realise that at times doctors/professionals play guessing games). The minute my friend-cum-dentist Sabariah looks at the x-ray, she says there's a lesion on the gums as the root canal done few years' back wasn't a good job - only 1 of the canals had been filled (though not well compacted) and this has led to accumulation of dirt, etc leading to infection.

(Check out demo if want to know what a root canal is: http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1759080/root_canal_treatment_procedure_mumbai_india/)

So today was my first out of three treatments to get a better job done. Yeah, no throbbing now, just soreness from the cleaning up of the canals.

Do people really know what they are doing or just out to make a fast buck?

The Red Telephone Box

2008-11-05T20:54:00.029+08:00

News on the telly covered the sad fate of the red telephone box in Britain. With the advance of the communication era, they face a sad plight of ‘extinction’. To many, the red telephone box is as symbolic of Britain as fish and chips!

Well, we have our very own red telephone box in Cameron Highlands (opposite Ye Olde Smoke House)! Here are a couple of photos taken in 1992 and another two in 2007.
It's a sight for sore eyes now, obviously neglected. I wonder if there are other red telephone boxes in Malaysia? (Yes, that young chap in the white t-shirt is the same little boy with his granddad in the earlier pic!)

Can we save a piece of history?
Read on!http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/3333543/Communities-rally-round-to-save-the-traditional-red-telephone-box.html

http://www.thisissouthdevon.co.uk/news/Tractor-blockade-phone-box-stand/article-391059-detail/article.html

http://www.newtownabbeytoday.co.uk/news/DIALLING-UP-A-PLAN-TO.4639951.jp

http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/features/-The-Italian-connection.4610938.jp

System Gone Awry

2008-10-30T23:41:00.004+08:00

Passed my car keys to the regular amiable chap, and took a seat.

"Asalamu'alaikum!" I start off on this bright sunny morning, making small talk. Ah, lectures in Islamic Studies at the University close by; it is compulsory for the Malay/Muslim students that attend the University to attend Islamic Studies; the syllabus starts off with Islamic History right up to the current Islamic Era.

"Does the course cover an in-depth understanding of Islam?" I ask.

"The lecturer has to step in to play that role. We get about 10% of the students who are graced with the profound meaning and alhamdulillah there is a positive change in them."

Perchance we talk about the Islamic education at the Primary school level (children 7 to 12 years of age).

"From my observation and close-hand experience, the love for Allah and the understanding of Islam is not instilled in the child at Primary level. The children are thought to memorise verses without understanding the meaning, thought how to read the Quran without understanding its context."

“It’s only at the secondary school level (children age 13-17) are students exposed to the deeper understanding of Islam,” I am thus enlightened.

Influx from the daily news and the evident behaviour of teenage kids, show it’s a tad bit too late at this stage. Before they reach their teens, children are exposed to negative influences that somehow seem to leave an impression on them (does not Syaitan entice us with things that seem exciting?). Can we not recognise that the younger years are the most important in instilling values in children?

"I dare say the Islamic Education at the Primary level needs some serious adjustments."

"True enough."

"So how do we go about it?"

"There needs to be change at a higher level," whilst the lecturer gets up, walks to a clean, gleaming car.

I wonder, when will we have a clean slate?

Cosmic Unity & Right from Wrong

2008-10-24T14:28:00.001+08:00

May the below shed some light on our direction, and the harm we are creating on Earth be it at the expanse of other creatures in this world, our fellow men, and yes, to ourselves!

By the Sun and his glorious splendour;
By the Moon as she follows him;
By the Day as it shows up the Sun’s glory;
By the Night as it conceals it;
By the Firmament and its wonderful structure;
By the Earth and its wide expanse

The contrasts between the Sun and the Moon, the Day and the Night, and the Sky and the Earth – conduce to cosmic unity.

By the Soul, and the proportion and order given to it;
And its inspiration as to its wrong and its right;-
Truly he succeeds that purifies it, and he fails that corrupts it!

The most precious gift of all to man is the faculty of distinguishing between right and wrong. The soul of man, with internal order and proportion in its capacities and faculties, as made by Allah, is appealed to as having been endowed with the power of discriminating between right and wrong.
Men should learn that his success, his prosperity, his salvation depends on himself; and his failure, his decline, his perdition depends on his soiling his soul by choosing evil.

Surah Ash-Shams (The Sun), Verses 1 – 10, The Holy Quran (Abdullah Yusuf Ali translation)

A Treasured Reminder

2008-10-22T15:40:00.007+08:00

I went behind the curtain to a room with a clay pot on the floor and sunlight shining through. Walked out and met Omar who took my hand and showed me his ‘playground’. It was sunny, brown earth, stones, a bare place. As we walked, he showed me his ‘home’ (where he slept)– a small one-story building/hut made of grey rocks. As we entered, I could see a simple kitchen area, other than that it was bare inside, and he pointed to a spot where he slept in the next room. Omar tugged at my hand and excitedly led me out to the bright sunshine. We walked on and saw a beautiful green garden on the other side. As we walked back to the room I had come from, he asked me to stay. I knelt down to him, face to face, and I said I could not as our time on earth is determined by Allah. As I spoke, he gave a little frown (of seriousness/curiosity at my words). When I had spoken, he seemed to understand and went happily off to play. - Friday, May 23 2008 (17 Jumaada al-awal 1429)

Email conversation with a fellow revert in Africa

2008-10-13T15:14:00.026+08:00

...Yes, it is rather sad the way Islam is portrayed these days. I sometimes sit and observe people (who are Muslims) and ask myself "what went wrong?" There must be a solution. The "situation" as it is makes me wonder where can we start? How do we right so much wrongs?

Firstly I suppose we have to look at ourselves (the more I read/learn, I realise there is so much more I don't know. A humbling feeling). After the knowledge comes the practice; then on to the ummah. This I find rather challenging in Malaysia.

Islam and Malay culture seems to be intertwined to the extent culture, at times, overrides Islam in actions/decisions. I wonder on your observations on this when you were in Malaysia?

When I reverted I received statements such as "Now you are a Malay, you have to speak Malay", "Now you are a Malay, you have to eat with your hands". I was dumbfounded! Then when I decided to wear the headscarf I received a comment from a non-Malay "I didn't know you were a Malay" - I sat the chap down and explained to him the difference between Islam and Malay. Dare I say that the majority of people of other races in Malaysia link Islam to the Malays. Thus when a Malay behaves "inapproriately", it's Islam that gets shot at.

I start with myself in trying to change the "situation". But it seems so far a road ahead. An insignificant me trying to push a heavy load up a mountain. Muslims have to be united. And honestly, if you have any inkling on how we could do this, I would be glad to hear about it!

People are so comfortable with their worldly materials that they have forgotten that this is a temporary place.
___________________
Assalamu'alaikum, sister

Thanks for your last mail.
As for solutions, there are some things that we could do. First of all re-associating the Islamic studies with scientific studies; after all sciences and natural laws are part of Allah's creation. I do not know how it is in M'sia but here in Islamic school the teacher are telling their students that all sciences are evil, brought from the west and that they should concentrate only on studying the Holy Quran.

Very well on religious side but, just ask yourself that question: what are they learning? To repeat entire verses, not understanding the real meaning, just like parrots or tape recorders, as there is no teaching of the Arabic language. Believe me I have seen children of 12 years old that can recite any verse of the Holy Quran but can barely spell their names or add at 9 and 7.

Over here you can wonder, what type of next generation are we preparing to deal with life? Some idiots that will blow themselves up inside a plane because one Mullah told them to do so? What has happened to the science of logic that was once the pride of the Islamic world? So much for mathematic, astronomy, biology and so on and so on. Those were the fleuron of Islam not so long ago.

Do you know that the Crusaders were so much retrograde that they were considered as barbarians by the Muslims, with good reasons!

Just think about it and let me know your thoughts.

Victim of Slander!

2008-10-06T10:25:00.002+08:00

Yesterday I was a victim of slander. Slander of a ludicrous notion that somewhere in the past 10 years of my life, I had rejected God! As far back as I can recall, I have always thanked Allah for His guidance and mercy in my rocky road in life; thanked Him for always being by my side through my search for the Ultimate and ‘keeping an eye’ on me even at times I went astray. Many a time (though probably not enough) I have asked forgiveness for my ungratefulness for His divine guidance and mercy, and pray that He does not take away the very little Taqwa and Iman I have, but to increase it as days go by. I also pray to be on the straight path.

“But those who believe and work righteousness, and humble themselves before their Lord, they will be Companions of the Garden, to dwell therein for aye” - Surah Hud (The Prophet Hud), Verse 23, The Holy Quran. ….There is no virtue, quite the contrary, in rubbing our noses to the ground before men. We are not to be arrogant even before men because we are humble in Allah’s sight. Nor does true humility lose self-confidence; for that self-confidence arises from confidence in the support and help of Allah (Abdullah Yusuf Ali).

Knee-Jerk Reaction

2008-09-28T00:33:00.012+08:00

Some of us seem to take a myopic view of issues that obviously should be given more thought. Do we not look to the future, in decades to come, for the betterment of the society?

I have had experiences of “silent responses” from personnel in service oriented organisations to my queries for the mere reason that the other party was unable to hold a simple conversation in the English Language!

Surely we all know that to achieve, we must strive; and strive hard. Giving up on a sound plan before we can even attempt to reach the half-way mark results in definite failure.

A nation should be proud of their National Language; but let’s not get too “proud”.

I have said this time and time again, “Arrogance is the downfall of men”.

A Non-Muslim For A Day?

2008-09-16T12:52:00.000+08:00

Through my walk in this life, I have often heard a more or less similar statement on dressing our children in attire that is not according to the Islamic dress code.

Reasons pertaining to why we should do so, sing in more or less the same tune. The fear that as the children grow up to be young adults, they would like to fulfill their “desire” to dress like the non-Muslims. Thus having “exposed” them to such clothing at a younger age, as compared to a “restrictive” upbringing, would help curb such a yearning when they mature in years.

Maybe we could throw the blame on the media, social influences, peer pressure and everything else under the sun. But more importantly, when did it occur to Muslim youths that it was acceptable to dress in “devil-may-care attire” and thus selectively discard a part of their religious beliefs? What’s more dastardly is to note that within our own circle there are those who have labeled Islam as “restrictive”.

No, I am not saying we are to force our children to wear what we parents say is acceptable. Ramming rules down curious minds won’t hold. Instead we need to instill in our children the understanding of Islam and the love for Allah, fundamentals that play a major role in our guidance to the right path in life.

Through understanding, love is instilled; and acknowledging His Greatness leads to total submission. Even loyal subjects bow down to the King, what more the Almighty Creator!

Let us find a quiet moment within and ask ourselves whether as a parent we portray a good enough role model for our children? Have we not sung them praises of Allah, describing how beautiful the religion is and most importantly that Islam is a way of life?
Or are we ourselves lacking in our daily practice and understanding of Islam as a way of life.