Sincerely, I offended them!

There are people in my inbox who have messaged me without getting a response. Whilst this isn’t intentional, I sincerely want to tender my unreserved apology to you all. By Allah, it’s not easy to answer everyone. Sometimes, I started to respond and got caught up in another thing. Sometimes, I just want to be alone and think deeply about life and my challenges. A lot of people do not understand that you also have challenges you deal with. It may not even be you directly but maybe someone close to you. That means you have something disturbing your mind, and you will not be able to even check a message, let alone answer it.

When our sister Sekinah passed away, I remembered this place, and I tried to appraise myself. What will the Muslim community say about me after I am gone? Who truly am I, and how many people have I either annoyed or hurt directly or indirectly? I always like to free my mind and speak up about my concerns. That’s who I am. I hate pretenses, and I welcome anyone who says to my face, “You are wrong.” That’s only going to be welcomed after you have established the truth, meaning you have heard my side of the story. As for what is apparent and doesn’t need to be asked about, yes, corrections need to be taken, and we should move on. We are not in this life for play. We are here for a divine purpose, and our actions and inactions matter.

If you are angry that I didn’t respond to your messages, please don’t be. I am very weak. It’s a weakness on my path. I will continue to try. I just want to keep the love we share intact for the sake of Allah. May Allah forgive us all. May you find it easy to forgive me.

Umm Sumayyah Mai

The Blessings Bestowed Upon Us: A Test of Gratitude and Faith

As Muslims, we often view blessings as a source of joy, comfort, and prosperity. We pray for blessings, work hard to attain them, and express gratitude when they are bestowed upon us. However, the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) remind us that blessings can also be a test of our faith, gratitude, and character.

In Surah Al-A’raf, Allah says: “And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.” (Quran 7:31)

This verse highlights the idea that blessings, like trials, are a means of testing our faith and resolve. When we are blessed with wealth, health, or success, we are tested to see how we will use these blessings, whether we will be grateful or arrogant, and whether we will remember Allah or forget Him.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The servant does not attain true faith until he becomes pleased with Allah as his Lord, Islam as his religion, and Muhammad as his Prophet.” (Hadith)

This hadith emphasizes the importance of being content and grateful for the blessings we receive, rather than taking them for granted or becoming arrogant. When we are blessed, we should recognize that these blessings come from Allah and are a manifestation of His mercy and favor.

So, how can we pass the test of blessings? Here are a few reminders:

1. Be grateful: Express your gratitude to Allah for the blessings you receive. Remember that blessings are a gift from Allah, and acknowledging this gift is essential to maintaining a healthy and humble relationship with Him.

2. Use blessings wisely: Use the blessings you receive to benefit yourself, your family, and your community. Invest your wealth, share your knowledge, and use your talents to make a positive impact on the world.

3. Remember Allah: When you are blessed, remember Allah and recognize that these blessings come from Him. Do not forget to pray, fast, and give charity, as these acts of worship help to maintain a strong connection with Allah.

4. Be humble: Avoid becoming arrogant or proud when you are blessed. Recognize that blessings can be taken away at any moment, and that true wealth and success come from Allah alone.

In conclusion, the blessings bestowed upon us are indeed a test of our faith, gratitude, and character. By being grateful, using blessings wisely, remembering Allah, and remaining humble, we can pass this test and demonstrate our commitment to living a life that is pleasing to Allah.

Umm Sumayyah Mai

When Trials Come, Hold onto Your Faith

Dear Sisters,

In times of trial, it’s essential to hold fast to our faith and trust in Allah’s divine plan. We are all tested uniquely, and some of us may face depression, anxiety, and panic attacks as we navigate life’s challenges. Personally, I faced a significant trial on November 2nd, which affected me profoundly through my beloved. In the midst of turmoil, I sought solace in prayer, crying out to Allah in the stillness of my closet. Despite my pain, I continued to express gratitude, posting “Alhamdulillah!” as a testament to my faith.

Though I didn’t receive the outcome I had hoped for, I remained steadfast, trusting in Allah’s mercy and wisdom. This experience reminded me that our trials are a shared human experience, affecting us all in different ways. As believers, we must recognize that our lives are in Allah’s hands.

It’s not always easy to share our struggles publicly, but we can find comfort in knowing that we’re not alone. As people of Sunnah, we’re called to stand firm in the face of adversity, returning to Allah in times of calamity.

Our faith doesn’t immunize us against trials, but it equips us to face them with courage and resilience. Let’s learn to accept our trials as opportunities for growth, drawing closer to Allah and recognizing His sovereignty over our lives. May Allah ease our struggles and guide us on this journey of Dunya.

 

Umm Sumayyah Mai

Be Mindful of Your Media Consumption

Oh, Young Sisters!

Be mindful of your media consumption to protect your faith, values, and well-being. Remember, dear sisters, you are the future leaders and representatives of our Ummah!

Be cautious of whom you follow on social media, and don’t be carried away by the number of followers you’ve acquired. Fame can be a trial (fitnah) for you, and pursuing it may endanger your Deen and Aqeedah.

Listen when corrected, and avoid arrogance and pride. Uphold the flag of Islam with love, pride, and dignity. Don’t follow the crowd; instead, be firm and steadfast.

Seek beneficial knowledge that illuminates your path and guides you. Learn how to speak, when to speak, and be mindful of your words.

May Allah guide and protect you all.

 

Your sister,

Umm Sumayyah Mai

Reflection on Motherhood,

As I reflect on motherhood, I think of those mothers who fast and pray fervently for their children’s success. I’m sure there are many women like that. One valuable lesson my mother taught us was to mention our children’s names during prayers. I’ve made it a habit to do so, asking Allah to protect them from harm.

As parents, we face challenges while raising our children. It’s essential to have open and honest conversations with them. Sometimes, we need to be firm and direct; other times, diplomatic and gentle. Many parents have found success with both approaches.

Children should be taught to respect their parents and learn manners and accountability. Unfortunately, many young lives are affected by peer pressure. As parents, it’s our responsibility to guide them correctly. These children are novices who deserve proper guidance.

We should encourage them, saying, ‘I believe in you, and you can do better.’ Let’s instill confidence in them, reminding them that they’re capable of achieving anything. With determination and faith, they’ll succeed, bihi”dhiniLlaah!

Umm Sumayyah Mai