Allah meri kar manzoor du'a
Kareen na tu methon mera pyaar juda, mera yaar juda
Hath chuk chuk manga aho dua'wan
lagan na onoo, shallan, kadiyan hawa'wan
odiyan ang, meinoo, mein mang jawan
Rab, sayeen, sunn meri dil di sadaa,
kareen na tu methon mera pyaar juda, mera yaar juda
Sonaya sayee'yan aina karam kamaday
meri umar mere yaar noo laday
Wasta Khudaye da eh tainoo Malika,
kareen na tu methon mera yaar juda, mera pyaar juda
Allah meri kar manzoor du'a
Kareen na tu methon mera pyaar juda, mera yaar juda
--- if you don't know, you better ask somebody! :P
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
The Snooze Button on my Biological Clock is Broken
I have ring envy. Its a lot like having baby envy except totally different. Ive noticed lately as I people watch (I can do this finally because Im now in a city where cattle does not outnumber people) I immediately take note of their ring fingers and whether or not they are married. And, no not the men only, but more so the women: their bling is more blinding. Im joking. I totally respect the sanctity of the institution of marriage. Rings are symbolic of commitment.
"One Ring to rule them all, one Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all, and in the darkness bind them."
~Lord of the Rings~
Im sure married life to a single person seems exciting and fantastic and wonderful, but allow me to play devil's advocate for my own sanity's sake: Im sure its not all that and a bag of baked Lay's. I know this because there are way too many married people wanting to be single again. Statistically, there are more marriages that end in divorce than relationships that fail.
Mom (on a phone conversation with me): Soooo, you want to be married to have someone else carry in groceries and take out the trash?
The married ones arent happy, and neither are us single ones. Is happiness becoming more and more out of reach? Do we opt to get married because our biological clock wont stop sending five minute reminders? Is there such a thing as premature marriages with very shaky survival chances past 1 yr? Is there a gestational period for waiting before you're ready to get married? And if so, what is it? Can a womb ever become too comfortable to leave forcing a team of parents and close relatives to perform emergency C-section intervention (perfect for Commitment phobes)?
If what people say is true and single people are just 'too busy' for marriage, then what is my preoccupation? And when will everything else take a backseat to my life's number one priority?
Monday, October 30, 2006
The Most Dangerous Cities in the US
In 'least to most' order (I read it wrong at first and I knew there was a problem when Nashville, TN was before Philadelphia)
1. Brick, N.J.
2. Amherst, N.Y.
3. Mission Viejo, Calif.
4. Newton, Mass.
5. Troy, Mich.
6. Colonie, N.Y.
7. Irvine, Calif.
8. Cary, N.C.
9. Greece, N.Y.
10. Coral Springs, Fla.
11. Thousand Oaks, Calif.
12. Orem, Utah
13. Round Rock, Texas
14. Dover, N.J.
15. Lake Forest, Calif.
16. Sterling Heights, Mich.
17. Simi Valley, Calif.
18. Roswell, Ga.
19. Lee's Summit, Mo.
20. Broken Arrow, Okla.
21. Chino Hills, Calif.
22. Gilbert, Ariz.
23. Edison, N.J.
24. Cranston, R.I.
25. Port St. Lucie, Fla.
26. Sandy, Utah
27. Nashua, N.H.
28. Danbury, Conn.
29. Huntington Beach, Calif.
30. Orange, Calif.
31. Hamilton, N.J.
32. Parma, Ohio
33. Overland Park, Kan.
34. Santa Clarita, Calif.
35. Stamford, Conn.
36. Cheektowaga, N.Y.
37. Livonia, Mich.
38. Sunnyvale, Calif.
39. Murrieta, Calif.
40. Canton, Mich.
41. Plano, Texas
42. Warwick, R.I.
43. Torrance, Calif.
44. Clifton, N.J.
44. Newport Beach, Calif.
46. Woodbridge, N.J.
47. Fargo, N.D.
48. Norman, Okla.
49. Olathe, Kan.
50. Boca Raton, Fla.
51. Livermore, Calif.
52. Centennial, Colo.
53. Fremont, Calif.
54. Clinton, Mich.
55. Vacaville, Calif.
56. Tracy, Calif.
57. Bellevue, Wash.
58. Carlsbad, Calif.
59. Pembroke Pines, Fla.
60. Farmington Hills, Mich.
61. Richardson, Texas
62. Rancho Cucamon., Calif.
63. Boulder, Colo.
64. McKinney, Texas
65. Rochester, Minn.
66. Beaverton, Ore.
67. Santa Clara, Calif.
68. Daly City, Calif.
69. Lewisville, Texas
70. Napa, Calif.
71. Burbank, Calif.
72. Arvada, Colo.
73. Alexandria, Va.
74. Virginia Beach, Va.
75. Ann Arbor, Mich.
76. Quincy, Mass.
77. Glendale, Calif.
78. Ventura, Calif.
79. Provo, Utah
80. Fullerton, Calif.
81. Lawrence, Kan.
82. Scottsdale, Ariz.
83. Carrollton, Texas
84. Hillsboro, Ore.
85. Somerville, Mass.
86. Kenosha, Wis.
87. Davie, Fla.
88. Chino, Calif.
89. Sunrise, Fla.
90. Cape Coral, Fla.
91. Henderson, Nev.
92. Billings, Mont.
93. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
94. Plantation, Fla.
95. Costa Mesa, Calif.
96. San Mateo, Calif.
97. Garland, Texas
98. Madison, Wis.
99. Corona, Calif.
100. Clovis, Calif.
300. North Las Vegas, Nev.
301. Beaumont, Texas
302. Las Vegas, Nev.
303. Denver
304. Yakima, Wash.
305. Syracuse, N.Y.
306. Longview, Texas
307. Pittsburgh
308. Tucson, Ariz.
309. Bridgeport, Conn.
310. Inglewood, Calif.
311. Pompano Beach, Fla.
312. Albany, N.Y.
313. Phoenix
314. Boston
315. Chattanooga, Tenn.
316. Tampa, Fla.
317. Jersey City, N.J.
318. Milwaukee
319. Miami Beach, Fla.
320. Indianapolis, Ind.
321. Shreveport, La.
322. Sacramento, Calif.
323. St. Petersburg, Fla.
324. Tacoma, Wash.
325. Houston
326. Columbus, Ohio
327. Miami
328. Baton Rouge, La.
329. Charlotte, N.C.
330. Jackson, Miss.
331. Toledo, Ohio
332. Macon, Ga.
333. Nashville, Tenn.
334. Rochester, N.Y.
335. Tulsa, Okla.
336. Stockton, Calif.
337. Hartford, Conn.
338. Dallas
339. Miami Gardens, Fla.
340. Buffalo, N.Y.
341. Springfield, Mass.
342. Kansas City, Kan.
343. Philadelphia
344. West Palm Beach, Fla.
345. Minneapolis
346. Dayton, Ohio
347. Orlando, Fla.
348. San Bernardino, Calif.
349. Little Rock, Ark.
350. Newark, N.J.
351. Reading, Pa.
352. North Charleston, S.C.
353. Washington
354. Cincinnati
355. Atlanta
356. Kansas City, Mo.
357. Richmond, Va.
358. Trenton, N.J.
359. Memphis, Tenn.
360. Baltimore
361. Richmond, Calif.
362. Gary, Ind.
363. Youngstown, Ohio
364. Oakland, Calif.
365. Cleveland
366. Birmingham, Ala.
367. Camden, N.J.
368. Compton, Calif.
369. Flint, Mich.
370. Detroit
371. St. Louis
PS. These polls must be taken with a grain of salt, because #53 ranked Fremont, CA was where Aliya Ansari was gunned down last week.
1. Brick, N.J.
2. Amherst, N.Y.
3. Mission Viejo, Calif.
4. Newton, Mass.
5. Troy, Mich.
6. Colonie, N.Y.
7. Irvine, Calif.
8. Cary, N.C.
9. Greece, N.Y.
10. Coral Springs, Fla.
11. Thousand Oaks, Calif.
12. Orem, Utah
13. Round Rock, Texas
14. Dover, N.J.
15. Lake Forest, Calif.
16. Sterling Heights, Mich.
17. Simi Valley, Calif.
18. Roswell, Ga.
19. Lee's Summit, Mo.
20. Broken Arrow, Okla.
21. Chino Hills, Calif.
22. Gilbert, Ariz.
23. Edison, N.J.
24. Cranston, R.I.
25. Port St. Lucie, Fla.
26. Sandy, Utah
27. Nashua, N.H.
28. Danbury, Conn.
29. Huntington Beach, Calif.
30. Orange, Calif.
31. Hamilton, N.J.
32. Parma, Ohio
33. Overland Park, Kan.
34. Santa Clarita, Calif.
35. Stamford, Conn.
36. Cheektowaga, N.Y.
37. Livonia, Mich.
38. Sunnyvale, Calif.
39. Murrieta, Calif.
40. Canton, Mich.
41. Plano, Texas
42. Warwick, R.I.
43. Torrance, Calif.
44. Clifton, N.J.
44. Newport Beach, Calif.
46. Woodbridge, N.J.
47. Fargo, N.D.
48. Norman, Okla.
49. Olathe, Kan.
50. Boca Raton, Fla.
51. Livermore, Calif.
52. Centennial, Colo.
53. Fremont, Calif.
54. Clinton, Mich.
55. Vacaville, Calif.
56. Tracy, Calif.
57. Bellevue, Wash.
58. Carlsbad, Calif.
59. Pembroke Pines, Fla.
60. Farmington Hills, Mich.
61. Richardson, Texas
62. Rancho Cucamon., Calif.
63. Boulder, Colo.
64. McKinney, Texas
65. Rochester, Minn.
66. Beaverton, Ore.
67. Santa Clara, Calif.
68. Daly City, Calif.
69. Lewisville, Texas
70. Napa, Calif.
71. Burbank, Calif.
72. Arvada, Colo.
73. Alexandria, Va.
74. Virginia Beach, Va.
75. Ann Arbor, Mich.
76. Quincy, Mass.
77. Glendale, Calif.
78. Ventura, Calif.
79. Provo, Utah
80. Fullerton, Calif.
81. Lawrence, Kan.
82. Scottsdale, Ariz.
83. Carrollton, Texas
84. Hillsboro, Ore.
85. Somerville, Mass.
86. Kenosha, Wis.
87. Davie, Fla.
88. Chino, Calif.
89. Sunrise, Fla.
90. Cape Coral, Fla.
91. Henderson, Nev.
92. Billings, Mont.
93. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
94. Plantation, Fla.
95. Costa Mesa, Calif.
96. San Mateo, Calif.
97. Garland, Texas
98. Madison, Wis.
99. Corona, Calif.
100. Clovis, Calif.
300. North Las Vegas, Nev.
301. Beaumont, Texas
302. Las Vegas, Nev.
303. Denver
304. Yakima, Wash.
305. Syracuse, N.Y.
306. Longview, Texas
307. Pittsburgh
308. Tucson, Ariz.
309. Bridgeport, Conn.
310. Inglewood, Calif.
311. Pompano Beach, Fla.
312. Albany, N.Y.
313. Phoenix
314. Boston
315. Chattanooga, Tenn.
316. Tampa, Fla.
317. Jersey City, N.J.
318. Milwaukee
319. Miami Beach, Fla.
320. Indianapolis, Ind.
321. Shreveport, La.
322. Sacramento, Calif.
323. St. Petersburg, Fla.
324. Tacoma, Wash.
325. Houston
326. Columbus, Ohio
327. Miami
328. Baton Rouge, La.
329. Charlotte, N.C.
330. Jackson, Miss.
331. Toledo, Ohio
332. Macon, Ga.
333. Nashville, Tenn.
334. Rochester, N.Y.
335. Tulsa, Okla.
336. Stockton, Calif.
337. Hartford, Conn.
338. Dallas
339. Miami Gardens, Fla.
340. Buffalo, N.Y.
341. Springfield, Mass.
342. Kansas City, Kan.
343. Philadelphia
344. West Palm Beach, Fla.
345. Minneapolis
346. Dayton, Ohio
347. Orlando, Fla.
348. San Bernardino, Calif.
349. Little Rock, Ark.
350. Newark, N.J.
351. Reading, Pa.
352. North Charleston, S.C.
353. Washington
354. Cincinnati
355. Atlanta
356. Kansas City, Mo.
357. Richmond, Va.
358. Trenton, N.J.
359. Memphis, Tenn.
360. Baltimore
361. Richmond, Calif.
362. Gary, Ind.
363. Youngstown, Ohio
364. Oakland, Calif.
365. Cleveland
366. Birmingham, Ala.
367. Camden, N.J.
368. Compton, Calif.
369. Flint, Mich.
370. Detroit
371. St. Louis
PS. These polls must be taken with a grain of salt, because #53 ranked Fremont, CA was where Aliya Ansari was gunned down last week.
Daylight come and me wan' go home
Daylight Savings:
Dark outside when you leave + dark outside when you get home multiplied by depression = fallback to bed after 5am alarm sounds!
So if your best friend ever runs towards you in a department store make-up section and says, "Here try this on!" ... don't do it. She hands me this kip treatment for plumper lips, so I tried it. (not that I needed it but just because) After applying my lips are on FIRE!!!!! What the crap is this stuff?! Ingredients: Bee sting serum, may cause anafalactic shock for those with allergy. My lips were larger than my head.
My lips this morning, as I noticed while brushing my teeth, are still plumped up minus the burning sensation.
Dark outside when you leave + dark outside when you get home multiplied by depression = fallback to bed after 5am alarm sounds!
So if your best friend ever runs towards you in a department store make-up section and says, "Here try this on!" ... don't do it. She hands me this kip treatment for plumper lips, so I tried it. (not that I needed it but just because) After applying my lips are on FIRE!!!!! What the crap is this stuff?! Ingredients: Bee sting serum, may cause anafalactic shock for those with allergy. My lips were larger than my head.
My lips this morning, as I noticed while brushing my teeth, are still plumped up minus the burning sensation.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Let's Talk About Marriage -- Whats love got to do with it?
"His hello was the end of her endings
Her laugh was their first step down the aisle
His hand would be hers to hold forever
His forever was as simple as her smile
He said she was what was missing
She said instantly she knew
She was a question to be answered
And his answer was "I do"
-Carrie's poem
I feel like Im back in high school again on Sunday afternoons dreading the work week. Its just Monday-anxiety because its not as if the week drags, I blink and its Thursday suddenly. Maybe its because I didnt get enough "me-time" during the weekend? This was busy weekend pt. 3. Basically, post-Ramadan, my weekends are still crazy. Don't get me wrong, I think its a great thing. I really like being busy, but I just have to remember not to put everything off 'til the weekend.
My first party Friday night was awesome, a TJU reunion. Good friends, good conversation, and they loved my apartment!! :) You know its a good party when people forget the time and stay pretty late.
Saturday I had to be at the radio station @ 11:30am. It was in Manayunk which is Philly's quaint, trendy, hot spot. I guess I was too busy during the week when I accepted the invite, to stress about what I would say, how I would sound, what if I messed up? etc. No, actually I did my homework on the topic and felt confident that I could do this. The 20 minute ride was when the worrying set in. Why do I do that to myself? Why cant I let myself pretend I have it all under control? When will being in denial actually work for me?
Anyway, the show was an amazing experience. I was on with two other Muslim sisters, one my age and one elder. It was an African-American Muslim radio show and they discussed a different topic the last Saturday of every month. I had originally been told the topic of discussion was to be Tony Blair's comments toward hijab, but instead they decided that would not be sufficient for an entire 2 hr program. The topic of discussion was the importance of marriage in Islam. (As if its not thrown in my face enough already, now I have to discuss it on air? Yikes!)Okay, thats okay, Im going on-air with no research on this topic. No time to panic. I was really nervous at first, but then I realized that all I had to do was forget that I was on-air and have a girl chat with the woman about a topic that I should be able to talk about. The best indication of a good experience is how much you learn. It was a good learning experience. I realized there are plenty of reasons to get married, but one of them should not be because my mom fears I'm getting too old. Islamically, the biggest reason for marriage is to procreate, to benefit the Ummah.
Then I was asked, on-air mind you, the only question I have avoided throughout this whole partner-seeking ordeal: What are you looking for in a husband? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Because I realized, sitting amongst Muslim women, addressing an Islamic audience, I could not just get by with saying, "Im looking for a decent God-fearing brother who respects women." and no I didnt have a plan-B answer, so I did the only thing worse than lying: I told the truth. Yes, I was honest for the first time ever about what I wanted. My answer: I have absolutely no clue. Of course I didnt quite say it like that exactly, but that was the gist of it. Apparently I have to take a step back and make a list of characteristics/qualities that define me and in turn those qualities will iA manifest themselves into a person. The strange thing is for once I have a perfectly clear idea on what I want. I think I have a good idea on what is exactly what I am looking for. *yay* me.
Ok, so Saturday afternoon Christiana showed up. The rest of the weekened was all about "Sex and the City", shopping at King of Prussia, and Cheesecake Factory. And being the bestttest best friend that she is, she fixed my clogged sink! Ever since I moved in my sink has been clogged. I never tried it myself because I just automatically assumed declogging it was a futile attempt and that it was a clogging sink by design since I had only been there not even a day and it was clogged through no fault of my own. Well, its unclogged now, yay! She told me about this stuff called Foaming Pipe Cleaning Snake. (no comment :P ) Also, I got one of these shelf stands for my bathroom that fits over my toilet. Its perfect for me since I dont have much counter space. Now my bathroom is complete.
Now, Im lounging in my living room, watching more episodes while screening my phone calls. Perfect way to end a busy weekend. :)
Party1
Party2
Her laugh was their first step down the aisle
His hand would be hers to hold forever
His forever was as simple as her smile
He said she was what was missing
She said instantly she knew
She was a question to be answered
And his answer was "I do"
-Carrie's poem
I feel like Im back in high school again on Sunday afternoons dreading the work week. Its just Monday-anxiety because its not as if the week drags, I blink and its Thursday suddenly. Maybe its because I didnt get enough "me-time" during the weekend? This was busy weekend pt. 3. Basically, post-Ramadan, my weekends are still crazy. Don't get me wrong, I think its a great thing. I really like being busy, but I just have to remember not to put everything off 'til the weekend.
My first party Friday night was awesome, a TJU reunion. Good friends, good conversation, and they loved my apartment!! :) You know its a good party when people forget the time and stay pretty late.
Saturday I had to be at the radio station @ 11:30am. It was in Manayunk which is Philly's quaint, trendy, hot spot. I guess I was too busy during the week when I accepted the invite, to stress about what I would say, how I would sound, what if I messed up? etc. No, actually I did my homework on the topic and felt confident that I could do this. The 20 minute ride was when the worrying set in. Why do I do that to myself? Why cant I let myself pretend I have it all under control? When will being in denial actually work for me?
Anyway, the show was an amazing experience. I was on with two other Muslim sisters, one my age and one elder. It was an African-American Muslim radio show and they discussed a different topic the last Saturday of every month. I had originally been told the topic of discussion was to be Tony Blair's comments toward hijab, but instead they decided that would not be sufficient for an entire 2 hr program. The topic of discussion was the importance of marriage in Islam. (As if its not thrown in my face enough already, now I have to discuss it on air? Yikes!)Okay, thats okay, Im going on-air with no research on this topic. No time to panic. I was really nervous at first, but then I realized that all I had to do was forget that I was on-air and have a girl chat with the woman about a topic that I should be able to talk about. The best indication of a good experience is how much you learn. It was a good learning experience. I realized there are plenty of reasons to get married, but one of them should not be because my mom fears I'm getting too old. Islamically, the biggest reason for marriage is to procreate, to benefit the Ummah.
Then I was asked, on-air mind you, the only question I have avoided throughout this whole partner-seeking ordeal: What are you looking for in a husband? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Because I realized, sitting amongst Muslim women, addressing an Islamic audience, I could not just get by with saying, "Im looking for a decent God-fearing brother who respects women." and no I didnt have a plan-B answer, so I did the only thing worse than lying: I told the truth. Yes, I was honest for the first time ever about what I wanted. My answer: I have absolutely no clue. Of course I didnt quite say it like that exactly, but that was the gist of it. Apparently I have to take a step back and make a list of characteristics/qualities that define me and in turn those qualities will iA manifest themselves into a person. The strange thing is for once I have a perfectly clear idea on what I want. I think I have a good idea on what is exactly what I am looking for. *yay* me.
Ok, so Saturday afternoon Christiana showed up. The rest of the weekened was all about "Sex and the City", shopping at King of Prussia, and Cheesecake Factory. And being the bestttest best friend that she is, she fixed my clogged sink! Ever since I moved in my sink has been clogged. I never tried it myself because I just automatically assumed declogging it was a futile attempt and that it was a clogging sink by design since I had only been there not even a day and it was clogged through no fault of my own. Well, its unclogged now, yay! She told me about this stuff called Foaming Pipe Cleaning Snake. (no comment :P ) Also, I got one of these shelf stands for my bathroom that fits over my toilet. Its perfect for me since I dont have much counter space. Now my bathroom is complete.
Now, Im lounging in my living room, watching more episodes while screening my phone calls. Perfect way to end a busy weekend. :)
Party1
Party2
My lovely shower curtain
Ta da! :D
Friday, October 27, 2006
Snake Charmer with Narcoleptic Tendencies ;)
Its "Slippery Rails" Season. Let's all rejoice? The trains were ridiculously late last night and people pounced on ANY available train like hungry vulchers on a carcass. (think: the night before Thanksgiving at O'Hare). As if waiting wasnt bad enough, the ticket collector had issues with my leg finding its way to the aisle. (I have this thing where when I sit I always cross my legs. So naturally, my right leg was waving in the aisle.) The guy mentioned it about three times. OKKKKKKKK, I get it! Move on!
I came home and my apartment was warm and toasty. How so? No clue, but it was cold outside so I wasnt complaining -- except when the leg bug returned. Ick. I had lots of shopping to do for my party tonight, and it was sooo cold I really wasnt feelin' being out.
I went to bed real early - not because I was dead tired or anything - I thought it was just going to be a power nap, but I woke up at 4:30am. Go figure. Got up, brushed up on my Parseltongue skills - snake charmer -- what can I say??, got ready and headed out the door, chilled to the bone.
This weekend will be really busy. College friends coming over tonight, Christiana coming up (finally!) for the weekend. Saturday morning I've been asked to be on this Sisters' Islamic Radioshow, the topic: Tony Blair and his comments on hijab. If you don't know already (did you crawl out from under Plymouth rock, known to one as a 'pebble'?) "Prime Minister Tony Blair has backed calls by his party's parliamentary leader, Jack Straw, that Muslim women in Britain should refrain from covering their full faces, particularly when dealing with the wider society." from an October 18th Time.com article http://www.time.com/time/world/printout/0,8816,1547572,00.html
I have asked a couple of hijab-wearing sisters' opinions and iA I hope to share them on air with whoever is listening.
In a society that feels variety is the spice of life -- Im surprised people still feel the need to blend in and assimilate. Its beautiful being different, thats what makes us unique. Same is boring. I think those living in areas rich with cultures are blessed because you get a sense of another country -- no passport required. Acceptence, not ignorance, should be taught.
But anyhow, I'm sure,iA,it will be a good discussion.
So, I was accused of having narcoleptic tendencies, and of course I have to go back and evaluate so who better to call than my sister to prove this wrong? This is how that convo went this morning:
Me: hey, remember when sameen came to visit and we were watching that movie late at night...
(interrupting) Mimi: oh yeah, and you kept falling asleep and we were laughing cuz you were like, No Im awake...
(silence)
Me: Dont call back again!
I'm not asleep... its me closing my eyes and focusing on your words and voice. and a neighbors dog barking three blocks away...... YOU THINK IT MIGHT BE YOU?! multiplied by my Adult ADD? lol...
...I've got more issues than the magazine vendor down the street who still, without fail, greets me every morning and night....sweet, na?
I came home and my apartment was warm and toasty. How so? No clue, but it was cold outside so I wasnt complaining -- except when the leg bug returned. Ick. I had lots of shopping to do for my party tonight, and it was sooo cold I really wasnt feelin' being out.
I went to bed real early - not because I was dead tired or anything - I thought it was just going to be a power nap, but I woke up at 4:30am. Go figure. Got up, brushed up on my Parseltongue skills - snake charmer -- what can I say??, got ready and headed out the door, chilled to the bone.
This weekend will be really busy. College friends coming over tonight, Christiana coming up (finally!) for the weekend. Saturday morning I've been asked to be on this Sisters' Islamic Radioshow, the topic: Tony Blair and his comments on hijab. If you don't know already (did you crawl out from under Plymouth rock, known to one as a 'pebble'?) "Prime Minister Tony Blair has backed calls by his party's parliamentary leader, Jack Straw, that Muslim women in Britain should refrain from covering their full faces, particularly when dealing with the wider society." from an October 18th Time.com article http://www.time.com/time/world/printout/0,8816,1547572,00.html
I have asked a couple of hijab-wearing sisters' opinions and iA I hope to share them on air with whoever is listening.
In a society that feels variety is the spice of life -- Im surprised people still feel the need to blend in and assimilate. Its beautiful being different, thats what makes us unique. Same is boring. I think those living in areas rich with cultures are blessed because you get a sense of another country -- no passport required. Acceptence, not ignorance, should be taught.
But anyhow, I'm sure,iA,it will be a good discussion.
So, I was accused of having narcoleptic tendencies, and of course I have to go back and evaluate so who better to call than my sister to prove this wrong? This is how that convo went this morning:
Me: hey, remember when sameen came to visit and we were watching that movie late at night...
(interrupting) Mimi: oh yeah, and you kept falling asleep and we were laughing cuz you were like, No Im awake...
(silence)
Me: Dont call back again!
I'm not asleep... its me closing my eyes and focusing on your words and voice. and a neighbors dog barking three blocks away...... YOU THINK IT MIGHT BE YOU?! multiplied by my Adult ADD? lol...
...I've got more issues than the magazine vendor down the street who still, without fail, greets me every morning and night....sweet, na?
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Bedtime Story Malfunction
"Tumne na jaana ke main deewaana
Lekar aaya hoon dil ka nazraana
Mere dil ki hai jo daastaan
Suno na suno na, sun lo na"
-Chalte, Chalte
Last night was a string of strange events -- one right after the other -- starting with the cup of coffee I had at 5pm on the way home. With me, there is a window of opportunity with drinking coffee to stay up late. That window is between 3-5p.
I was wired, Im talking "fiberoptic internet - 24/7 tech support" wired by the end of the train ride.
Funny story: In Starbucks (or FourBucks as I like to call it) the two guys behind me, Middle Eastern in colouring, were speaking a different language. One I did not recognize, but I thought it was pretty. I wasnt sure if it was a dialect of Arabic/Farce or what have you, so I asked. "Its Hebrew", says the one. Oh, figures right? So I guess unknowingly I proceeded to say Im Muslim and wasnt sure if it was Arabic/Farce etc. And I was in a rush, but its funny because the other guy says, "Oh. Thats ok." Kind of like in a "oh, you're not tall enough to ride the tea-cup ride at Disney World - poor you" manner. And I realized it as I hit the train platform, thinking... did those two Israeli guys try and imply, its ok if you're Muslim.. we can still be friends? Weird.
The strange events started with my grocery shopping incident where I met (affectionately known as)Crazy in the soup isle. My cans of soup kept falling through the holes in the cart for the childseat. I bent down to pick them up, on my way up I came face to face with this elderly lady who wanted to tell me her whole life story starting with how shes a huge fan of the Beegees (think: Saturday Night Fever). Why? I dont know. Pa says strange people gravitate towards me because like identifies with like... I think its because of my extremely personable nature. :)
I was supposed to get cable hooked up in my apartment yesterday. But, no one showed up and apparently even though I was angry, I couldnt get it together enough to call and complain. The caffeine overdose had me giddy. But, its okay because I had lots of other things going on to keep my busy.
I had a 'hella' epiphany last night -- things rarely are what they seem. Even when you think you've categorized someone to a T, its amazing what a good hour (or four) conversation, the equivalent of a good book you cant put down, will leave you believing. I guess all you have to do is...listen. Maybe thats why Crazy sought me out. Maybe I should start listening to myself?
Things happen for a reason -- and in the end, even if its not apparent to us, its never all for nothing. I suppose this is why I analyze things so much: just to find the reasons. When those reasons are not clear to me, or I dont agree with them, I get frustrated. The world is what it is, certain things are set in motion, we have no control... whats bound to happen will happen. We are, however, responsible for how we conduct ourselves and its true, we should try and live according to Islamic Law. (easier said than done, at times, I know)
I kept thinking yesterday how we as humans are so lucky to have a supreme being who will judge us justly, because I dont think humans have it in them to ever be completely unbiased. Its funny to see how the same people who pray for justice five times a day are sometimes the ones incapable of granting others mercy.
The world is definitely not a good place to live right now. And, unfortunately, there is no escape because.. where else are you going to go? What does God think about the world we live in? How do you continue to write a story knowing the end will be total destruction of the world as we know it? How does He, knowing a child will not survive past its first year, still go through the effort of creating that child.
That tells me.. that its not all for nothing. There is a purpose to everything. Will we find it in our lifetime is the question.
Lekar aaya hoon dil ka nazraana
Mere dil ki hai jo daastaan
Suno na suno na, sun lo na"
-Chalte, Chalte
Last night was a string of strange events -- one right after the other -- starting with the cup of coffee I had at 5pm on the way home. With me, there is a window of opportunity with drinking coffee to stay up late. That window is between 3-5p.
I was wired, Im talking "fiberoptic internet - 24/7 tech support" wired by the end of the train ride.
Funny story: In Starbucks (or FourBucks as I like to call it) the two guys behind me, Middle Eastern in colouring, were speaking a different language. One I did not recognize, but I thought it was pretty. I wasnt sure if it was a dialect of Arabic/Farce or what have you, so I asked. "Its Hebrew", says the one. Oh, figures right? So I guess unknowingly I proceeded to say Im Muslim and wasnt sure if it was Arabic/Farce etc. And I was in a rush, but its funny because the other guy says, "Oh. Thats ok." Kind of like in a "oh, you're not tall enough to ride the tea-cup ride at Disney World - poor you" manner. And I realized it as I hit the train platform, thinking... did those two Israeli guys try and imply, its ok if you're Muslim.. we can still be friends? Weird.
The strange events started with my grocery shopping incident where I met (affectionately known as)Crazy in the soup isle. My cans of soup kept falling through the holes in the cart for the childseat. I bent down to pick them up, on my way up I came face to face with this elderly lady who wanted to tell me her whole life story starting with how shes a huge fan of the Beegees (think: Saturday Night Fever). Why? I dont know. Pa says strange people gravitate towards me because like identifies with like... I think its because of my extremely personable nature. :)
I was supposed to get cable hooked up in my apartment yesterday. But, no one showed up and apparently even though I was angry, I couldnt get it together enough to call and complain. The caffeine overdose had me giddy. But, its okay because I had lots of other things going on to keep my busy.
I had a 'hella' epiphany last night -- things rarely are what they seem. Even when you think you've categorized someone to a T, its amazing what a good hour (or four) conversation, the equivalent of a good book you cant put down, will leave you believing. I guess all you have to do is...listen. Maybe thats why Crazy sought me out. Maybe I should start listening to myself?
Things happen for a reason -- and in the end, even if its not apparent to us, its never all for nothing. I suppose this is why I analyze things so much: just to find the reasons. When those reasons are not clear to me, or I dont agree with them, I get frustrated. The world is what it is, certain things are set in motion, we have no control... whats bound to happen will happen. We are, however, responsible for how we conduct ourselves and its true, we should try and live according to Islamic Law. (easier said than done, at times, I know)
I kept thinking yesterday how we as humans are so lucky to have a supreme being who will judge us justly, because I dont think humans have it in them to ever be completely unbiased. Its funny to see how the same people who pray for justice five times a day are sometimes the ones incapable of granting others mercy.
The world is definitely not a good place to live right now. And, unfortunately, there is no escape because.. where else are you going to go? What does God think about the world we live in? How do you continue to write a story knowing the end will be total destruction of the world as we know it? How does He, knowing a child will not survive past its first year, still go through the effort of creating that child.
That tells me.. that its not all for nothing. There is a purpose to everything. Will we find it in our lifetime is the question.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Dream Interpretation
(You know I had to go there)
Dream symbol: snake
snake, snakes, snaking, snaked
Interpretation:
A snake within a dream often symbolizes transformation, resurrection or rebirthing
(now this seems like a fit)
A snake bite may suggest self-sabotage (no, didnt get bit - in fact, I killed it)
Mysticism, healing, enlightenment (Post-ramadan this fits too)
Being highly sensitive to the vibrations of others (interesting...)
A sleeping or coiled snake may represent Kundalini energy or life force (eh whatever)
The penis (Um, I dont get it?)
Sexuality or sexual energy (LOL)
Temptation (double LOL -- just because its not an apple doesnt mean I cant be tempted!)
A negative association with a snake may denote being afraid of your own power (BINGO)
Choosing an indirect route or being unfocused (my microscope is unfocused)
For many westerners, snakes represent fear or death (Can we wait til my insurance starts again, thanks!)
Something that is snaky may represent betrayal or insidiousness (do 3rd degree burns count?)
A devious, sneaky or dangerous person, a snake in the grass (with shapely legs? haha)
Dream symbol: snake
snake, snakes, snaking, snaked
Interpretation:
A snake within a dream often symbolizes transformation, resurrection or rebirthing
(now this seems like a fit)
A snake bite may suggest self-sabotage (no, didnt get bit - in fact, I killed it)
Mysticism, healing, enlightenment (Post-ramadan this fits too)
Being highly sensitive to the vibrations of others (interesting...)
A sleeping or coiled snake may represent Kundalini energy or life force (eh whatever)
The penis (Um, I dont get it?)
Sexuality or sexual energy (LOL)
Temptation (double LOL -- just because its not an apple doesnt mean I cant be tempted!)
A negative association with a snake may denote being afraid of your own power (BINGO)
Choosing an indirect route or being unfocused (my microscope is unfocused)
For many westerners, snakes represent fear or death (Can we wait til my insurance starts again, thanks!)
Something that is snaky may represent betrayal or insidiousness (do 3rd degree burns count?)
A devious, sneaky or dangerous person, a snake in the grass (with shapely legs? haha)
Snakes
Did you ever notice how a house fly gets real slow after its been inside a house for more than a day? I'm convinced its the lack of oxygen or feeling of being trapped that causes the fly to lose its mind. I'm beginning to think the lack of air flow through my apartment is intoxicating to me as well. Either that or I must of eaten some toxic 'shrooms because last night I had the most whack nightmare ever.
So Allhamdullilah the house centipede problem is taken care of, either its the weather or the fact that the apartment is now "lived" in, but either way Im glad. I can live in peace right? Wrong. Nothing in my life is ever that simple. One thing is fixed and its on to the next. My new fear: snakes. My nightmare last night was about a snake that found its way into my parents' home. It was so real, I remember thinking it was reality.
In my nightmare my younger sister and I came upon the snake. I remember urging her to run quick because I knew snakes can move very fast. It was just my younger sister and I at home. We hid in my parents' room. Shortly I heard my parents come home and move around downstairs. I called out to them, from the top of the stairs, that there was a snake in the kitchen. As I heard my father say, "I know. I've been here trying to kill it." I noticed the snake was on the stairs right underneath me. I screamed and jumped back. And my father came upstairs. My sister and I ran into the bathroom in my parents' room and slammed the door. The snake started to come through the clearance underneath the door. I had bug spray and I aimed at its head. It was turned away from me and somehow the snake, as it came through, broke in half, and a chunk of its flesh draped across my leg.
AUGGGGGGHH!!!! EEEEEWWW! It seemed so real, I could feel the squishy, slimy, mucousy skin.
It was strange because the snake started out as an eel and then began to look like an aligator and in the end it was a snake. Bizarre.
But, I killed it. I killed the snake and saved the day?
...weird.
So Allhamdullilah the house centipede problem is taken care of, either its the weather or the fact that the apartment is now "lived" in, but either way Im glad. I can live in peace right? Wrong. Nothing in my life is ever that simple. One thing is fixed and its on to the next. My new fear: snakes. My nightmare last night was about a snake that found its way into my parents' home. It was so real, I remember thinking it was reality.
In my nightmare my younger sister and I came upon the snake. I remember urging her to run quick because I knew snakes can move very fast. It was just my younger sister and I at home. We hid in my parents' room. Shortly I heard my parents come home and move around downstairs. I called out to them, from the top of the stairs, that there was a snake in the kitchen. As I heard my father say, "I know. I've been here trying to kill it." I noticed the snake was on the stairs right underneath me. I screamed and jumped back. And my father came upstairs. My sister and I ran into the bathroom in my parents' room and slammed the door. The snake started to come through the clearance underneath the door. I had bug spray and I aimed at its head. It was turned away from me and somehow the snake, as it came through, broke in half, and a chunk of its flesh draped across my leg.
AUGGGGGGHH!!!! EEEEEWWW! It seemed so real, I could feel the squishy, slimy, mucousy skin.
It was strange because the snake started out as an eel and then began to look like an aligator and in the end it was a snake. Bizarre.
But, I killed it. I killed the snake and saved the day?
...weird.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Ever Feel Like...?
Have you ever felt like things happen so quickly that you never have enough time to enjoy them? Ramadan came and went and Eid just happened. It was funny because this was the first year that Eid wasnt iffy. We started fasting Sept. 23rd so we were pretty certain Monday was Eid since Sunday was the 30th fast. Usually you wake up in the morning and keep fast and then find out its Eid and end up having to "break" your fast.
Eid was fun! I went to my sisters in DE for the second to last iftaari of 2006. The cutest thing was my first iftar and last iftar was with my Aunt's family. The first iftar was at my new apartment. Neat, huh? I cant believe Ive been in here for almost two months.
Work was cool today. It was my needle day. That means I am the one going on needle procedures (FNAs = fine needle aspirations). This happens when a clinician finds a mass of sorts and then, through radiography, samples the mass. The procedures are interesting because its always neat to find out right away what the sample is. Like for instance in thyroid cases the mass could be either a goiter, a cyst, or, unfortunately, cancer. I like the clear-cut cases, like say lung masses that turn up to be cancerous. Goiters are really neat to see, too, because the picture is definite: colloid, follicular cells/hurthle cells, and macrophages.
Have you ever walked into your apartment and your phone is ringing off the hook, only to have your answering machine pick up and no one leaves a message? It makes me want to leave a message like: Hi, you've reached my answering machine because I cant believe I gave out my home number without caller ID and I am screening my calls so LEAVE A MESSAGE or STOP CALLING ME!!
...but instead it says: Hi, you've reached (###-###-#### -- old Maryland apt. number-- never got around to changing it.. ) leave a message and I'll get back to you.
(pshh.. yeah right)
Its fair to say at this point people who know me know enough to know better than to call me and expect a call back.. UNLESS..they're "special".. only a select few.. and yes I will call you back. To the rest -- sucks to be you! :P
Eid was fun! I went to my sisters in DE for the second to last iftaari of 2006. The cutest thing was my first iftar and last iftar was with my Aunt's family. The first iftar was at my new apartment. Neat, huh? I cant believe Ive been in here for almost two months.
Work was cool today. It was my needle day. That means I am the one going on needle procedures (FNAs = fine needle aspirations). This happens when a clinician finds a mass of sorts and then, through radiography, samples the mass. The procedures are interesting because its always neat to find out right away what the sample is. Like for instance in thyroid cases the mass could be either a goiter, a cyst, or, unfortunately, cancer. I like the clear-cut cases, like say lung masses that turn up to be cancerous. Goiters are really neat to see, too, because the picture is definite: colloid, follicular cells/hurthle cells, and macrophages.
Have you ever walked into your apartment and your phone is ringing off the hook, only to have your answering machine pick up and no one leaves a message? It makes me want to leave a message like: Hi, you've reached my answering machine because I cant believe I gave out my home number without caller ID and I am screening my calls so LEAVE A MESSAGE or STOP CALLING ME!!
...but instead it says: Hi, you've reached (###-###-#### -- old Maryland apt. number-- never got around to changing it.. ) leave a message and I'll get back to you.
(pshh.. yeah right)
Its fair to say at this point people who know me know enough to know better than to call me and expect a call back.. UNLESS..they're "special".. only a select few.. and yes I will call you back. To the rest -- sucks to be you! :P
Friday, October 20, 2006
Fave Pic
Out of all the pictures I have of family and friends this one is the only one on my desk at work. Does that say something to you? :P I love this pic of Idrees and I. He was around 6 months old at this time. He turns 4 in November, iA. Time does fly. Now that I live about 4 minutes away from Sesame Place, I plan on taking him and his sister, Fatima, to the theme park in Spring.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Laylatul Qadr - The Night of Power
"Verily, We sent it down in the night of al-Qadr. And what will make you know what the night of al-Qadr is? The night of al-Qadr is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Spirit by their Lord's permission with all Decrees. Peace! Until the appearance of dawn."(Al-Qadr: 1-5)
"We sent it (this Qur'aan) down on a blessed Night. Verily, We are ever warning (mankind of Our Torment). Therein (that Night) is decreed every matter of ordainment. Amran (i.e. a command or this Qur'aan or His Decree of every matter) from Us. Verily, We are ever sending (the Messenger). (As) a Mercy from your Lord. Verily! He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. {Surah Dukhan 44:3-6}
As Mujaahid reported, the Prophet SAW mentioned, "When the month of Ramadhan came, the Messenger of Allah SAW said: "The month of Ramadhan has come, a blessed month in which Allah SWT has made it obligatory for you to fast, in it the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained. In it is a night better than a thousand months, whoever loses the benefits of it has lost something irreplaceable." {Ahmad}
"Allah's Messenger, (SAW), looked back at the previous communities and saw that his community lived for a much shorter period in comparison to them. He was concerned about how his community would be able to gain as many rewards as those of the previous communities. So when Allah the Exalted saw the concerns in the heart of His Beloved, (SAW), then he, (SAW), was given Laylatul-Qadr, which is more virtuous than a thousand months." {Imâm Mâlik, Muatta}
The Night of Power is indeed unique in every sense. Most befittingly it has been afforded exclusively to the Ummah of Rasulullah (SAW), which is in itself unique from all previous nations. The magnanimous rewards and benefits of this auspicious night also dictate that its occurrence remains partially disclosed. Allah (SWT) alone knows the true date of Laylatul Qadr and those wanting to earn this night have to vigilantly search for it in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadaan.
It was narrated by Abdullah that the Prophet SAW said: Allah’s Apostle went out to inform the people about the date of the night of decree (al-Qadr) but there happened a quarrel between two Muslim men. The Prophet SAW said: "I came out to inform you about (the date of) the night of al-Qadr, but as so and so and so and so quarrelled, its knowledge was taken away (I forgot it) and maybe it was better for you. Now look for it in the last 10 nights of the month of Ramadhan." {al-Bukhari, Volume 1:46}
It was also reported by Aishah (Ra): "The Messenger of Allah SAW used to exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights." {Muslim}
Allah SWT tells us that the Qur’an was sent down in the night of al-Qadr, or Lailatul Qadr. Lailatul Qadr occurs in the month of Ramadhan, as Allah says: "The month of Ramadhan in which the Qur’an was sent down." (Al-Baqarah: 185)
As we read the texts above, we can gather that the night of al-Qadr or Lailatul Qadr is the most blessed night in a year. A person, who misses it, has indeed missed great benefits. It is recommended to seek the night and spend it diligently in devotion, including performing Tahajjud prayers, and reciting the Qur’an and supplications.
It was narrated by Nafi: Ibn Umar said, "In the lifetime of the Prophet (SAW) I saw a dream that a piece of silk cloth was in my hand and it flew with me to whichever part of Paradise I wanted. I also saw as if two persons (that is angels) came to me and wanted to take me to Hell. Then an angel met us and told me not to be afraid. He then told them to leave me." Hafsa narrated one of my dreams to the Prophet (SAW) and the Prophet (SAW) said: "Abdullah is a good man. Would that he offers Tahajjud!" So after that day Abdullah (bin Umar) started offering Tahajjud. The companions of the Prophet (SAW) used to tell him their dreams that (Laylatul Qadr) was on the 27th of the month of Ramadhan. The Prophet SAW said: "I see that your dreams agree on the last 10 nights of Ramadhan and so whoever is in search of it should seek it in the last 10 nights of Ramadhan." {al-Bukhari, Volume 1:777}
In a report by Abi Hatim and Al-Wahidi, by way of Mujahid, the Messenger (SAW) mentioned that there was a man among the Israelites who devoted his life to the cause of Allah for a thousand months. The companions were amazed and impressed, but were saddened because they knew there would be no way that they could reach this status of devotion. So Allah (SWT) revealed this surah to inform them that He had just blessed this Ummah with the Night of Honor, which is equal to a thousand months.
It was the practice of Rasoolillah(SAW) to perform itikaaf(Seclusion) in the mosque during the last 10 days of Ramadhan:
Abu Hurairah, radiyallahu 'anhu said: "Allah's Messenger, (SAW), used to perform i`tikaf for ten days every Ramadan, then when it was the year in which he was taken (died), he performed I`tikaf for twenty days. {Bukhari}
Ibn Abbas (Radiyallahu anhu) relates that Rasulullah (SAW) said: "The person performing "I'tikaaf" remains free from sins, and he is indeed given the same reward as for those who do righteous deeds (in spite of not having done these deeds) as a result of having been secluded in the masjid."
Abu Saeed Khudri (RA reports that Rasulullah (SAW) once performed 'I'tikaaf' in a tent (inside the Masjid) for the first ten days of Ramadan. Thereafter, he extended it to the middle ten days. Thereafter, he put his head out of the tent and said: "Verily in search of "Laylatul Qadr" did I perform "I'tikaaf" for the first ten days and extended it to the next ten days for the same purpose; then I was told that this night is in the last ten days; so those with me should also continue the "I'tikaf". I had indeed been shown that night and then made to forget which one it shall be. And verily did I see myself prostrating to Allah with my forehead in mud on the morning after that night. Therefore, seek "Laylatul Qadr" among the last ten nights of Ramadan; seek it among the odd ones." Abu Saeed (RA) says: "That same night it rained. The roof of the Masjid leaked, and I saw Rasulullah (SAW) performing 'Sujood' (prostration) in muddy clay; and that was the morning of the 21 st night." {Saheeh Muslim Book 6, Number 2621}
Even if you cannot remain in itikaaf for the full 10 days intention should be made to spend any time in the masjid as itikaaf.
Ya'la ibn Umayyah said: "I secluded myself in the mosque for some time for I`tikaf." 'Ata told him: "That is I`tikaf, as long as you secluded yourself there."
Ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with them) reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Seek it (Lailat-ul-Qadr) in the last (ten nights).If one among you shows slackness and weakness (in the earlier part of Ramadan), it should not be allowed to prevail upon him in the last week. {Book 6, Number 2622}
It is reported from Ibn 'Umar, who said: Allah's Messenger said: "Seek it in the last ten, and if one of you is too weak or unable then let him not allow that to make him miss the final seven.' {Bukhari and Muslim}
The person who finds this night and observes it appropriately earns himself a great fortune, a fortune that will only be realised and appreciated in the hereafter.
What are the signs of laylatul-Qadr?
Allaah's Messenger , (SAW), described the morning after Lailatul-Qadr, so that the Muslim may know which day it is. From Ubayy, (RA), who said: that he, (SAW), said: "On the morning following Laylatul-Qadr the sun rises not having any rays, as if it were a brass dish, until it rises up." {Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmithi and Ibn Majah}
Abu Hurairah, (RA), said : "We were discussing Laylatul-Qadr in the presence of Allah's Messenger so he said : 'Which of you remembers {the night} when the moon arose and was like half a plate? {Muslim}
Ibn 'Abbaas (RA), said: Allaah's Messenger, (SAW), said: "Lailatul-Qadr is calm and pleasant, neither hot nor cold, the sun arises on its morning being feeble and red." {at-Tayaalisee, Ibn Khuzaimah and al-Bazzaar with a Hasan Isnad}
Narrated by Ubayy Ibn Ka’b, "Zirr Ibn Hubaysh reported: I thus asked Ubayy Ibn Ka’b: Your brother (in faith) Ibn Mas’ud says: He who stands (for the night prayer) throughout the year will find Lailatul Qadr. Thereupon he said: May Allah have mercy upon him. (He said these words) with the intention that people might not rely only (on one night), whereas he knew that it (Lailatul Qadr) was in the month of Ramadhan and it was the 27th night. I said to him: AbulMundhir, on what grounds do you say that? Thereupon he said: By the indication or by the sign which the Messenger of Allah SAW gave us, and that is that on that day (the sun) would rise without having any ray in it." {Muslim}
It was narrated by Abu Salama: "Once I went to Abu Said al-Kudri and asked him, "Won’t you come with us to the date palm trees to have a talk?" So Abu Said replied, "Once Allah’s Apostle performed Iktikaaf on the first 10 days of the month of Ramadhan and we did the same with him. Gabriel came to him and said, "The night you are looking for is ahead of you." So the Prophet SAW performed the Iktikaaf in the middle (second) 10 days of the month of Ramadhan and we too performed Iktikaaf with him. Gabriel came to him and said, "The night which you are looking for is ahead of you." On the morning of the 20th Ramadhan, the Prophet SAW delivered a sermon saying: "Whoever has performed Iktikaaf with me should continue it. I have been shown the Night of ‘Qadr’, but have forgotten the date, but it is in the odd nights of the last 10 nights. I saw in my dream that I was prostrating in mud and water." In those days the roof of the mosque was made of branches of date palm trees. At the same time the sky was clear and no cloud visible, but suddenly a cloud came and it rained. The Prophet SAW led us in the prayer and I saw the traces of mud on the forehead and the nose of Allah’s Apostle. So it was the confirmation of that dream." {al-Bukhari, Volume 1:777}
What actions should one undertake on this Blessed Night
On this night, a countless number of angels descend with blessings and mercy until dawn, as they descend when the Qur’an is recited and they surround those sitting in circles in remembrance of Allah (SWT) and they lower their wings in presence of the sincere seeker of knowledge in honor of Him.
If a believer is eager to obey Allah (SWT) and increase the good deeds in his record, he should work hard to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience. If this is facilitated for him, all of his previous sins will be forgiven.
It is recommended to perform a long Qiyaam prayer and read Quran during the nights on which Lailatul Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many Hadiths, like:
Abu Hurairah Radhiya Allahu `anhu reported that the Messenger of Allah, (SAW), said : "Whoever stands (in prayer) in Lailatul-Qadr out of Eemaan (faith and sincerety) and seeking reward then his previous sins are forgiven". {Bukhari}
Related by Abu Tharr r.a.: We fasted with the Messenger of Allah SAW in Ramadhan. He did not lead us (in Qiyaam) at all until there were seven (nights of Ramadhan) left. Then he stood with us (that night - in prayer) until one third of the night had passed. He did not pray with us on the sixth. On the fifth night, he prayed with us until half of the night had passed. So we said, "Allah's Messenger! Wouldn't you pray with us the whole night?" He replied: "Whoever stands in prayer with the imam until he (the imam) concludes the prayer, it is recorded for him that he prayed the whole night." {Recorded by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmizi (who authenticated it), an-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, at-Tahawi (in Sharhu Ma`an il-Athar, Ibn Nasr, al-Faryabi, and al-Bayhaqi}
Abu Hurairah r.a. narrated that the Messenger of Allah SAW said: "Whoever stands (in Qiyaam) in Lailatul Qadr (and it is facilitated for him) out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven." {Al-Bukhari and Muslim} (The addition "and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from the report of `Ubaadah Bin as-Samit. It means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.
Abdullah ibn `Amr reported that the Messenger of Allah, (SAW), said: "The fast and the Qur'an are two intercessors for the servant of Allah on the Day of Resurrection. The fast will say: 'O Lord, I prevented him from his food and desires during the day. Let me intercede for him.' The Qur'an will say: 'I prevented him from sleeping at night. Let me intercede for him.' And their intercession will be accepted." {Ahmad}
It is also recommended that a person make extensive supplications, as stated in the following Hadiths:
Aishah (Ra). reported that she asked the Messenger of Allah (SAW): "O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?" He said.- "Say.- (Allahumma innaka 'affuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee.)
"O Allaah You are The One Who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon me.". {at-Tirmithi and Ibn Majah with a Sahih Isnad}
Jabir, radhiya Allahu `anhu relates that the Messenger of Allah, (SAW) said :" In every day and every night, during the month of Ramadan, there are people to whom Allah grants freedom from the Fire, and there is for every Muslim a supplication which he can make and will be granted". {al-Bazzaar, Ahmad and Ibn Majah; Sahih}
Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet, (SAW), said: "There are three people whose supplications are not rejected: the fasting person when he breaks the fast, the just ruler and the supplication of the oppressed". {Tirmithi, Ibn Majah and Ibn Hibban}
http://www.lutonmuslims.co.uk/Qadr.htm
"We sent it (this Qur'aan) down on a blessed Night. Verily, We are ever warning (mankind of Our Torment). Therein (that Night) is decreed every matter of ordainment. Amran (i.e. a command or this Qur'aan or His Decree of every matter) from Us. Verily, We are ever sending (the Messenger). (As) a Mercy from your Lord. Verily! He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. {Surah Dukhan 44:3-6}
As Mujaahid reported, the Prophet SAW mentioned, "When the month of Ramadhan came, the Messenger of Allah SAW said: "The month of Ramadhan has come, a blessed month in which Allah SWT has made it obligatory for you to fast, in it the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained. In it is a night better than a thousand months, whoever loses the benefits of it has lost something irreplaceable." {Ahmad}
"Allah's Messenger, (SAW), looked back at the previous communities and saw that his community lived for a much shorter period in comparison to them. He was concerned about how his community would be able to gain as many rewards as those of the previous communities. So when Allah the Exalted saw the concerns in the heart of His Beloved, (SAW), then he, (SAW), was given Laylatul-Qadr, which is more virtuous than a thousand months." {Imâm Mâlik, Muatta}
The Night of Power is indeed unique in every sense. Most befittingly it has been afforded exclusively to the Ummah of Rasulullah (SAW), which is in itself unique from all previous nations. The magnanimous rewards and benefits of this auspicious night also dictate that its occurrence remains partially disclosed. Allah (SWT) alone knows the true date of Laylatul Qadr and those wanting to earn this night have to vigilantly search for it in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadaan.
It was narrated by Abdullah that the Prophet SAW said: Allah’s Apostle went out to inform the people about the date of the night of decree (al-Qadr) but there happened a quarrel between two Muslim men. The Prophet SAW said: "I came out to inform you about (the date of) the night of al-Qadr, but as so and so and so and so quarrelled, its knowledge was taken away (I forgot it) and maybe it was better for you. Now look for it in the last 10 nights of the month of Ramadhan." {al-Bukhari, Volume 1:46}
It was also reported by Aishah (Ra): "The Messenger of Allah SAW used to exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights." {Muslim}
Allah SWT tells us that the Qur’an was sent down in the night of al-Qadr, or Lailatul Qadr. Lailatul Qadr occurs in the month of Ramadhan, as Allah says: "The month of Ramadhan in which the Qur’an was sent down." (Al-Baqarah: 185)
As we read the texts above, we can gather that the night of al-Qadr or Lailatul Qadr is the most blessed night in a year. A person, who misses it, has indeed missed great benefits. It is recommended to seek the night and spend it diligently in devotion, including performing Tahajjud prayers, and reciting the Qur’an and supplications.
It was narrated by Nafi: Ibn Umar said, "In the lifetime of the Prophet (SAW) I saw a dream that a piece of silk cloth was in my hand and it flew with me to whichever part of Paradise I wanted. I also saw as if two persons (that is angels) came to me and wanted to take me to Hell. Then an angel met us and told me not to be afraid. He then told them to leave me." Hafsa narrated one of my dreams to the Prophet (SAW) and the Prophet (SAW) said: "Abdullah is a good man. Would that he offers Tahajjud!" So after that day Abdullah (bin Umar) started offering Tahajjud. The companions of the Prophet (SAW) used to tell him their dreams that (Laylatul Qadr) was on the 27th of the month of Ramadhan. The Prophet SAW said: "I see that your dreams agree on the last 10 nights of Ramadhan and so whoever is in search of it should seek it in the last 10 nights of Ramadhan." {al-Bukhari, Volume 1:777}
In a report by Abi Hatim and Al-Wahidi, by way of Mujahid, the Messenger (SAW) mentioned that there was a man among the Israelites who devoted his life to the cause of Allah for a thousand months. The companions were amazed and impressed, but were saddened because they knew there would be no way that they could reach this status of devotion. So Allah (SWT) revealed this surah to inform them that He had just blessed this Ummah with the Night of Honor, which is equal to a thousand months.
It was the practice of Rasoolillah(SAW) to perform itikaaf(Seclusion) in the mosque during the last 10 days of Ramadhan:
Abu Hurairah, radiyallahu 'anhu said: "Allah's Messenger, (SAW), used to perform i`tikaf for ten days every Ramadan, then when it was the year in which he was taken (died), he performed I`tikaf for twenty days. {Bukhari}
Ibn Abbas (Radiyallahu anhu) relates that Rasulullah (SAW) said: "The person performing "I'tikaaf" remains free from sins, and he is indeed given the same reward as for those who do righteous deeds (in spite of not having done these deeds) as a result of having been secluded in the masjid."
Abu Saeed Khudri (RA reports that Rasulullah (SAW) once performed 'I'tikaaf' in a tent (inside the Masjid) for the first ten days of Ramadan. Thereafter, he extended it to the middle ten days. Thereafter, he put his head out of the tent and said: "Verily in search of "Laylatul Qadr" did I perform "I'tikaaf" for the first ten days and extended it to the next ten days for the same purpose; then I was told that this night is in the last ten days; so those with me should also continue the "I'tikaf". I had indeed been shown that night and then made to forget which one it shall be. And verily did I see myself prostrating to Allah with my forehead in mud on the morning after that night. Therefore, seek "Laylatul Qadr" among the last ten nights of Ramadan; seek it among the odd ones." Abu Saeed (RA) says: "That same night it rained. The roof of the Masjid leaked, and I saw Rasulullah (SAW) performing 'Sujood' (prostration) in muddy clay; and that was the morning of the 21 st night." {Saheeh Muslim Book 6, Number 2621}
Even if you cannot remain in itikaaf for the full 10 days intention should be made to spend any time in the masjid as itikaaf.
Ya'la ibn Umayyah said: "I secluded myself in the mosque for some time for I`tikaf." 'Ata told him: "That is I`tikaf, as long as you secluded yourself there."
Ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with them) reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Seek it (Lailat-ul-Qadr) in the last (ten nights).If one among you shows slackness and weakness (in the earlier part of Ramadan), it should not be allowed to prevail upon him in the last week. {Book 6, Number 2622}
It is reported from Ibn 'Umar, who said: Allah's Messenger said: "Seek it in the last ten, and if one of you is too weak or unable then let him not allow that to make him miss the final seven.' {Bukhari and Muslim}
The person who finds this night and observes it appropriately earns himself a great fortune, a fortune that will only be realised and appreciated in the hereafter.
What are the signs of laylatul-Qadr?
Allaah's Messenger , (SAW), described the morning after Lailatul-Qadr, so that the Muslim may know which day it is. From Ubayy, (RA), who said: that he, (SAW), said: "On the morning following Laylatul-Qadr the sun rises not having any rays, as if it were a brass dish, until it rises up." {Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmithi and Ibn Majah}
Abu Hurairah, (RA), said : "We were discussing Laylatul-Qadr in the presence of Allah's Messenger so he said : 'Which of you remembers {the night} when the moon arose and was like half a plate? {Muslim}
Ibn 'Abbaas (RA), said: Allaah's Messenger, (SAW), said: "Lailatul-Qadr is calm and pleasant, neither hot nor cold, the sun arises on its morning being feeble and red." {at-Tayaalisee, Ibn Khuzaimah and al-Bazzaar with a Hasan Isnad}
Narrated by Ubayy Ibn Ka’b, "Zirr Ibn Hubaysh reported: I thus asked Ubayy Ibn Ka’b: Your brother (in faith) Ibn Mas’ud says: He who stands (for the night prayer) throughout the year will find Lailatul Qadr. Thereupon he said: May Allah have mercy upon him. (He said these words) with the intention that people might not rely only (on one night), whereas he knew that it (Lailatul Qadr) was in the month of Ramadhan and it was the 27th night. I said to him: AbulMundhir, on what grounds do you say that? Thereupon he said: By the indication or by the sign which the Messenger of Allah SAW gave us, and that is that on that day (the sun) would rise without having any ray in it." {Muslim}
It was narrated by Abu Salama: "Once I went to Abu Said al-Kudri and asked him, "Won’t you come with us to the date palm trees to have a talk?" So Abu Said replied, "Once Allah’s Apostle performed Iktikaaf on the first 10 days of the month of Ramadhan and we did the same with him. Gabriel came to him and said, "The night you are looking for is ahead of you." So the Prophet SAW performed the Iktikaaf in the middle (second) 10 days of the month of Ramadhan and we too performed Iktikaaf with him. Gabriel came to him and said, "The night which you are looking for is ahead of you." On the morning of the 20th Ramadhan, the Prophet SAW delivered a sermon saying: "Whoever has performed Iktikaaf with me should continue it. I have been shown the Night of ‘Qadr’, but have forgotten the date, but it is in the odd nights of the last 10 nights. I saw in my dream that I was prostrating in mud and water." In those days the roof of the mosque was made of branches of date palm trees. At the same time the sky was clear and no cloud visible, but suddenly a cloud came and it rained. The Prophet SAW led us in the prayer and I saw the traces of mud on the forehead and the nose of Allah’s Apostle. So it was the confirmation of that dream." {al-Bukhari, Volume 1:777}
What actions should one undertake on this Blessed Night
On this night, a countless number of angels descend with blessings and mercy until dawn, as they descend when the Qur’an is recited and they surround those sitting in circles in remembrance of Allah (SWT) and they lower their wings in presence of the sincere seeker of knowledge in honor of Him.
If a believer is eager to obey Allah (SWT) and increase the good deeds in his record, he should work hard to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience. If this is facilitated for him, all of his previous sins will be forgiven.
It is recommended to perform a long Qiyaam prayer and read Quran during the nights on which Lailatul Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many Hadiths, like:
Abu Hurairah Radhiya Allahu `anhu reported that the Messenger of Allah, (SAW), said : "Whoever stands (in prayer) in Lailatul-Qadr out of Eemaan (faith and sincerety) and seeking reward then his previous sins are forgiven". {Bukhari}
Related by Abu Tharr r.a.: We fasted with the Messenger of Allah SAW in Ramadhan. He did not lead us (in Qiyaam) at all until there were seven (nights of Ramadhan) left. Then he stood with us (that night - in prayer) until one third of the night had passed. He did not pray with us on the sixth. On the fifth night, he prayed with us until half of the night had passed. So we said, "Allah's Messenger! Wouldn't you pray with us the whole night?" He replied: "Whoever stands in prayer with the imam until he (the imam) concludes the prayer, it is recorded for him that he prayed the whole night." {Recorded by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmizi (who authenticated it), an-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, at-Tahawi (in Sharhu Ma`an il-Athar, Ibn Nasr, al-Faryabi, and al-Bayhaqi}
Abu Hurairah r.a. narrated that the Messenger of Allah SAW said: "Whoever stands (in Qiyaam) in Lailatul Qadr (and it is facilitated for him) out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven." {Al-Bukhari and Muslim} (The addition "and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from the report of `Ubaadah Bin as-Samit. It means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.
Abdullah ibn `Amr reported that the Messenger of Allah, (SAW), said: "The fast and the Qur'an are two intercessors for the servant of Allah on the Day of Resurrection. The fast will say: 'O Lord, I prevented him from his food and desires during the day. Let me intercede for him.' The Qur'an will say: 'I prevented him from sleeping at night. Let me intercede for him.' And their intercession will be accepted." {Ahmad}
It is also recommended that a person make extensive supplications, as stated in the following Hadiths:
Aishah (Ra). reported that she asked the Messenger of Allah (SAW): "O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?" He said.- "Say.- (Allahumma innaka 'affuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee.)
"O Allaah You are The One Who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon me.". {at-Tirmithi and Ibn Majah with a Sahih Isnad}
Jabir, radhiya Allahu `anhu relates that the Messenger of Allah, (SAW) said :" In every day and every night, during the month of Ramadan, there are people to whom Allah grants freedom from the Fire, and there is for every Muslim a supplication which he can make and will be granted". {al-Bazzaar, Ahmad and Ibn Majah; Sahih}
Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet, (SAW), said: "There are three people whose supplications are not rejected: the fasting person when he breaks the fast, the just ruler and the supplication of the oppressed". {Tirmithi, Ibn Majah and Ibn Hibban}
http://www.lutonmuslims.co.uk/Qadr.htm
DUA OF A FASTING PERSON
Once Moosa (AS) asked Allah Subhan-o-Taala: O Allah ! You have granted me the honour and privilege of talking to you directly, Have You given this
privilege to any other person?
Allah Subhan-o-Taala replied, O Moosa, during the last period I am going to send an Ummat, who will be the Ummat of Mohammed (SAW) with dry lips , parched tongues, emaciated body with eyes sunken deep into their sockets, with livers dry and stomachs suffering the pangs of hunger - will call out to me, (in dua) they will be much much closer to me than you. O Moosa! while you speak to me there are 70,000 veils between you and me but at the time of iftaar there will not be a single veil between me and the fasting Ummati of Mohammed (SAW).
O Moosa I have taken upon myself the responsibility that at the time of iftaar I will never refuse the dua of a fasting person!
privilege to any other person?
Allah Subhan-o-Taala replied, O Moosa, during the last period I am going to send an Ummat, who will be the Ummat of Mohammed (SAW) with dry lips , parched tongues, emaciated body with eyes sunken deep into their sockets, with livers dry and stomachs suffering the pangs of hunger - will call out to me, (in dua) they will be much much closer to me than you. O Moosa! while you speak to me there are 70,000 veils between you and me but at the time of iftaar there will not be a single veil between me and the fasting Ummati of Mohammed (SAW).
O Moosa I have taken upon myself the responsibility that at the time of iftaar I will never refuse the dua of a fasting person!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Unknown Reasons
Last night Monika and I were heading to Rosemont College to hear Sobia speak at their MSA's iftar dinner. I was driving in heavy rain with Monika in tow. I hate driving in rain because Ive had way too many accidents caused by hydroplaning (3 car pile up courtesy of yours truly) and they haunt me still. I was driving carefully, and on the turnpike there was an accident causing slight backup, it had to have just happened at that very moment. As I passed I noticed a minivan and a woman on the ground. I parked on the side of the road and Monika and I ran over to help. All I kept thinking was, "Annie, Annie, are you ok?" from CPR classes of the past. OMG, was I finally going to have to be in the situation to perform CPR?
Thankfully, the woman was breathing on her own and conscious. She happened to be desi and so we served as translators and we sat with her under an overhead bridge in the driving rain, in some guy's car until the police arrived.
You never know where/what your intended path will you to. Everything truly happens for a reason, and that reason was to help her out at that moment.
This accident brought back to memory another such accident two years ago that I witnessed. The lady in the accident was so distraught and traumatized that as I went over to help her she sprang from her car, grabbed me, and pulled me into oncoming highway traffic. Thank God it wasnt going fast, but it was weird because I remember people having to pounce on her, just so she would let go of me.
Scary. We made it back home safely, Allhamdullilah. My phone died and I left it in the car. This morning I woke up feeling sick and called out of work. Around 10am I get a frantic call from my mom (how DO they know when one of their own isnt well?) wondering where I was and if I was ok. Today was the one day I didnt call home from the train into Center City, she questioned Mimi about it and was told that maybe I was busy. Her instinct wouldnt let it go, so she tried my cell which of course was in my car out of battery. She finally caught up with me on my cell once I brought it in and charged it. Why she didnt call my apartment number is beyond me. Then I got yelled at, "Why did you have to go last night?" "Why are you sick?" "Why wasnt your phone on?" This, too, after Monday's fiasco of her leaving without her cellphone causing us to panick about her whereabouts. And then I make the same mistake.
Lesson learned. Im feeling better now. Its weird being home during the day. When we were in school, staying home was the best thing: tv, tv and more tv, topped with no parental supervision -- YES! Now its not so hot, all you think of is work and getting better so you can be back the next day.
Yeah, being an adult bites. Being a silly girl in adult clothing is even worse -- worse for my parents (as my dad says) but fun for me, sometimes. :P
Thankfully, the woman was breathing on her own and conscious. She happened to be desi and so we served as translators and we sat with her under an overhead bridge in the driving rain, in some guy's car until the police arrived.
You never know where/what your intended path will you to. Everything truly happens for a reason, and that reason was to help her out at that moment.
This accident brought back to memory another such accident two years ago that I witnessed. The lady in the accident was so distraught and traumatized that as I went over to help her she sprang from her car, grabbed me, and pulled me into oncoming highway traffic. Thank God it wasnt going fast, but it was weird because I remember people having to pounce on her, just so she would let go of me.
Scary. We made it back home safely, Allhamdullilah. My phone died and I left it in the car. This morning I woke up feeling sick and called out of work. Around 10am I get a frantic call from my mom (how DO they know when one of their own isnt well?) wondering where I was and if I was ok. Today was the one day I didnt call home from the train into Center City, she questioned Mimi about it and was told that maybe I was busy. Her instinct wouldnt let it go, so she tried my cell which of course was in my car out of battery. She finally caught up with me on my cell once I brought it in and charged it. Why she didnt call my apartment number is beyond me. Then I got yelled at, "Why did you have to go last night?" "Why are you sick?" "Why wasnt your phone on?" This, too, after Monday's fiasco of her leaving without her cellphone causing us to panick about her whereabouts. And then I make the same mistake.
Lesson learned. Im feeling better now. Its weird being home during the day. When we were in school, staying home was the best thing: tv, tv and more tv, topped with no parental supervision -- YES! Now its not so hot, all you think of is work and getting better so you can be back the next day.
Yeah, being an adult bites. Being a silly girl in adult clothing is even worse -- worse for my parents (as my dad says) but fun for me, sometimes. :P
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
If its not April, then why is it raining?
I couldnt help but think of a force field when I saw this. If only they had one in blue for PMS days, more so to protect the world around you from your evilness.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Pakistan Announces its Goat Shortage
Yes, they were all slaughtered in the name of Allah (swt) to benefit me on the order of my mother.
... its working, too, Allhamdullilah. :)
"Progress is taking risks. You cant steal home with one foot on third base" - Unknown
I have successfully (and livingly) mA made it through my first month in my new apartment and at my new job. Sayings like "Change is imminent" or "You'll get used to it." roll off tongues, but I've lived change. Yes, its always an adjustment and a learning experience, yes you'll be thankful later, and it will be beneficial and it takes A LOT of getting used to blah blah blah but no one's ever called it what it is... let me be the first: CHANGE IS A BITCH! Its the double edged sword that killed your enemy but you also.
But its a blessing making it out alive. The first week in Philly I'd really like to forget. It was worse than horrible. I've never regretted anything in my life, but I was close to entertaining thoughts of regret for changing jobs and moving, further still from my family. Of course I still had my beautiful apartment in Maryland that I had such a huge attachment to that it was hard to say goodbye.
I'm thankful to all my friends and family for easing me off the edge of insanity. Bottom line: Im no more independent than a 4 week fetus. I could not have made it on my own. Emotionally, we are all responsible for how we feel and I did have to break myself free from the depression chokehold but for everything else theres those who truly cared.
And you find those caring qualities in people you least suspected. Bonds are strengthened that way and that means the world to me.
I remember the day I changed my mind about being up here. I was returning to Philly having spent my last weekend in my old apartment cleaning it up and returning keys. I cried the whole way, til I got onto 495 and called up a friend to ask about her mother who is ailing from cancer. Her courage and strength in facing death head-on each day and still managing to get on with her life shamed me at letting the small things overshadow all the countless blessings I've been given with my new job and apartment. My tears stopped right then and there. That was all I needed to pull myself together, to accept what I have been given and move on.
Nothing comes easy, no one ever said it would be easy. I am in control of my emotions, nothings making me sad. I was making me sad, I was the only barrier to my success. I'm the one who had to change. I'm still the same old me, but with a better attitude on life.
My advice? Live life everyday. Make it count and make those you love damn sure of it too! If you dont like something, change it and yourself.
This new position is challenging, but Im ready. Bases loaded, a lot is at stake, Im up to bat and the balls not just going out of the ballpark, its going out of this world.
... its working, too, Allhamdullilah. :)
"Progress is taking risks. You cant steal home with one foot on third base" - Unknown
I have successfully (and livingly) mA made it through my first month in my new apartment and at my new job. Sayings like "Change is imminent" or "You'll get used to it." roll off tongues, but I've lived change. Yes, its always an adjustment and a learning experience, yes you'll be thankful later, and it will be beneficial and it takes A LOT of getting used to blah blah blah but no one's ever called it what it is... let me be the first: CHANGE IS A BITCH! Its the double edged sword that killed your enemy but you also.
But its a blessing making it out alive. The first week in Philly I'd really like to forget. It was worse than horrible. I've never regretted anything in my life, but I was close to entertaining thoughts of regret for changing jobs and moving, further still from my family. Of course I still had my beautiful apartment in Maryland that I had such a huge attachment to that it was hard to say goodbye.
I'm thankful to all my friends and family for easing me off the edge of insanity. Bottom line: Im no more independent than a 4 week fetus. I could not have made it on my own. Emotionally, we are all responsible for how we feel and I did have to break myself free from the depression chokehold but for everything else theres those who truly cared.
And you find those caring qualities in people you least suspected. Bonds are strengthened that way and that means the world to me.
I remember the day I changed my mind about being up here. I was returning to Philly having spent my last weekend in my old apartment cleaning it up and returning keys. I cried the whole way, til I got onto 495 and called up a friend to ask about her mother who is ailing from cancer. Her courage and strength in facing death head-on each day and still managing to get on with her life shamed me at letting the small things overshadow all the countless blessings I've been given with my new job and apartment. My tears stopped right then and there. That was all I needed to pull myself together, to accept what I have been given and move on.
Nothing comes easy, no one ever said it would be easy. I am in control of my emotions, nothings making me sad. I was making me sad, I was the only barrier to my success. I'm the one who had to change. I'm still the same old me, but with a better attitude on life.
My advice? Live life everyday. Make it count and make those you love damn sure of it too! If you dont like something, change it and yourself.
This new position is challenging, but Im ready. Bases loaded, a lot is at stake, Im up to bat and the balls not just going out of the ballpark, its going out of this world.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
HijabMan.com
So when you're not busy check out the site www.hijabman.com
I actually met this guy over iftaar Tuesday night. He sells custom-made t-shirts online. Some of his famous lines: "Make chai not war", "My name causes National Security alerts. What does yours do?", and my favorite "Good things come in small Pakis"
Call him funny, call him creative, but whatever you do, do not, I repeat, DO NOT call him pagal, or by his first name. haha.
Check out his website for more info on the 'Man'. His blogs are addictive.
I actually met this guy over iftaar Tuesday night. He sells custom-made t-shirts online. Some of his famous lines: "Make chai not war", "My name causes National Security alerts. What does yours do?", and my favorite "Good things come in small Pakis"
Call him funny, call him creative, but whatever you do, do not, I repeat, DO NOT call him pagal, or by his first name. haha.
Check out his website for more info on the 'Man'. His blogs are addictive.
Legs' Legs
I had to, I really had to. Doesn't the anatomical picture look like an X-rayed version of the other? :P
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Friday, October 06, 2006
No Regrets
The Fern and Bamboo
One day I decided to quit...I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality.... I wanted to quit my life. I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.
"God", I said. "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"
His answer surprised me.
"Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them. I gave them light. I gave them water. The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor. Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.
In the second year the fern grew more vibrant and plentiful. And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.
"In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed. But I would not quit. The same in year four.
"Then in the fifth year, a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the fern, it was seemingly small and insignificant.
But just six months later, the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall. It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive. I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle.
"Did you know that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots? I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you.
"Don't compare yourself to others." He said. "The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern. Yet they both make the forest beautiful.
"Your time will come", God said to me. "You will rise high"
"How high should I rise?" I asked.
"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned
"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."
I left the forest, realizing that God will never give up on me. And He will never give up on you.
Never regret a day in your life.
Good days give you happiness; bad days give you experiences; both are essential to life.
--Author Unknown
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Surrounded by half-dead men with no funny bones/laughing like a lunatic
I definitely need to brush up on my train etiquette. This morning, Im on the phone with Christiana and her story was making me laugh out loud, uncontrollably. The men around me, especially the man next to me who I kept from sleeping, looked very annoyed (and if looks could talk, there's would have said something like, "Oooooo-kayyy someone's got an extra chromosome!!")
There are guidelines to riding the train. Checkout the few I found listed below to see how mannerly you have been on your morning commute!
Etiquette Blog (http://www.practicaletiquette.com/train-etiquette.html)
1) Unless you have a specific seat reserved for your trip, usually you can take any available train seat. However, it is a big act of rudeness to place your bags and jackets on the seat next to you just to avoid other person takes it.
2) When you use the lavatory, don’t let the towels all over the place. Toss them in the appropriate receptacles and leave the lavatory the way you would like to find it.
3) If you must use your cell phone, go to the rear of the train car to have your conversation.
4) Don’t eat smelly and/or messy food at your seat. Don’t leave the trash all over the place: clean up after yourself.
5) If you smoke, do it in an open area at the train station, where the breeze takes the smoke away from you and keeps your clothes from smelling of smoke.
6) If you are having a meal at a dining area in the train, keep in mind that other passengers also will need a place to have their meals. Use only the space you need and only for the time you need to finish your meal.
7) Keep to the right while walking through the aisles, so passengers coming from the other direction can continue walking with no problems.
8) If you are traveling with children, keep them under control. Don’t let them bother other passengers, especially if your kids start screaming or running around. The way your children behave speaks a lot about you as a parent.
9) If you use headphones, keep the volume low. The sound coming from the headphones is very annoying.
10) Be polite with all passengers, especially with the ones who try to have a conversation with you.
There are guidelines to riding the train. Checkout the few I found listed below to see how mannerly you have been on your morning commute!
Etiquette Blog (http://www.practicaletiquette.com/train-etiquette.html)
1) Unless you have a specific seat reserved for your trip, usually you can take any available train seat. However, it is a big act of rudeness to place your bags and jackets on the seat next to you just to avoid other person takes it.
2) When you use the lavatory, don’t let the towels all over the place. Toss them in the appropriate receptacles and leave the lavatory the way you would like to find it.
3) If you must use your cell phone, go to the rear of the train car to have your conversation.
4) Don’t eat smelly and/or messy food at your seat. Don’t leave the trash all over the place: clean up after yourself.
5) If you smoke, do it in an open area at the train station, where the breeze takes the smoke away from you and keeps your clothes from smelling of smoke.
6) If you are having a meal at a dining area in the train, keep in mind that other passengers also will need a place to have their meals. Use only the space you need and only for the time you need to finish your meal.
7) Keep to the right while walking through the aisles, so passengers coming from the other direction can continue walking with no problems.
8) If you are traveling with children, keep them under control. Don’t let them bother other passengers, especially if your kids start screaming or running around. The way your children behave speaks a lot about you as a parent.
9) If you use headphones, keep the volume low. The sound coming from the headphones is very annoying.
10) Be polite with all passengers, especially with the ones who try to have a conversation with you.
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