Dear honey, yes, you are my son and the only son that gives me joy and trouble. I remember the day you were born and the excitement that comes with knowing and meeting you for the first time. Remember the story l told you about your birth. And remember mentioning to you what most first-time mothers experience during labor. Giving birth to you was an unforgettable experience and l am glad for that rare opportunity. Alhamdulillah!
I am writing to remind you about your next experience in life. That is life in college. This reminder will benefit you and every other teenager who is opportune to read this note. I was young, a little bit above your age when l entered College and l remember my mother’s advice during that time.
Know that college can be fun and stressful. It can be saucy and frustrating, but you shouldn’t give up on your dream. Life is not meant to be easy at all times. It is meant to be ups and down and there are days you will encounter some challenges. So, be prepared for them.
Remember the son of whom you are and
remember that Allah keeps a watchful eye on you. A lot of things happen in college that are not in line with the way you were raised. But you must be vigilant and cautious of your surroundings. It’s important to always put Allah first. Let Allah be your priority. Ask yourself, what does Allah say in what l am about to do?
Life without Islam and Sunnah is a complete waste. So, remember the importance we attached to the five daily prayers. Observe them at the appropriate time without leaving them till late night. Do not leave your prayer for anything. That’s your line of communication to the Highest, Allah. When you feel empty and life treats you unusually, call unto Allah, the Mighty.
Some of the challenges that come with college is free-mixing. Be smart enough to not entertain anyone who may want to lure you into sinning. Part of that is shaking hands with the opposite sex. Do not be shy to refuse any handshake from the opposite gender. The Prophet said, ‘If one of you were to be struck in the head with an iron needle, it would be better for him than if he were to touch a woman he is not allowed to.” So, remember this. It’s also very important to lower your gaze, be mindful of looking at Haram! Allah will question us regarding our gaze, what we listen to, and how we live our lives. Avoid Music of any kind. Instead, let the Quran be your Music. Listen to it for it helps to reduce the burden on one’s heart!
Know your companion. Know the type of friends you mingle with. Be mindful of Allah regarding this. Do not be friends with a smoker, gambler, alcoholic, and or womanizer. The Prophet said: The example of a good companion (who sits with you) in comparison with a bad one, is like that of the musk seller and the blacksmith’s bellows (or furnace); from the first you would either buy musk or enjoy its good smell while the bellows would either burn your clothes or your house, or you get a bad nasty smell thereof.” So, take note of this.
Always prepare yourself for exams. Do not be a cheater and do not entertain anyone to make you become one. Study well and always aims to be on the list of the most successful ones. There is nothing difficult to solve. You know the kind of a mother you have. So, take after me. Do never give up on your challenges. Call Allah, and do never leave your prayers. You have all the tools equipped with you! Use them Oh Dear, Son!
Remember Allah, and He will never forsake you! Let your Tahajud (Night prayer) be your means of closeness to Allah and do never leave your Quran on the shelf unopened. You were not raised to be clubbing. So, be wary of joining the bad gangs. It isn’t a good life! It’s rather a sinful life! Remember death may come unannounced! Always prepare to meet Allah!
Drive cautiously and be mindful of whom you carry in your small car. Do not entertain anyone who will ruin your life. Know when to say No! I have seen College students who were arrested, jailed, and or become deceased due to a motor vehicle accident. So, take note of it. Run away from getting in trouble! Do not imitate any abnormal character from any student. Be respectful to all your professors and carry the Islamic identity in you pretty well. Render assistance cautiously, and know to which you say, yes, or No! Be mindful of Allah, and He will always protect and guide your steps. May Allah grant you success in both worlds.
I love You, Son! Do never be tired of asking us questions. We will always be there to support you, positively, ln shaa Allah!
Umm Sumayyah Mai