http://aroob.blogspot.com/
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Al Adab Al Mufrad - Makki Masjid Manchester
AssalamuAlaikum, I finally have some free time to post after my Real Deal exam. Alhamdulillah.
I'm very glad I sat the exam, I was very close to not sitting it, Maymoonah was very unwell last week so I wasn't able to revise much and felt stressed about the exam.
Alhamdulillah the Sheikh (may Allah preserve him) reminded us in the final online revision session that we are not learning for an exam but to please Allah. SubhanAllah its easy to forget this point.
After I instilled this in myself I felt a lot calmer, regardless of how much I had revised.
Also my 'younger' sister told me, 'Don't think of it as an exam, think of it as a knowledge assessment test!' After that, I felt even calmer. Alhamdulillah.
I did expect the exam to be case based though and felt the paper could have been more challenging, but thats not to say it was easy.... time will tell inshaAllah.
Now, the mission begins to bring AlKauthar to Manchester....
Anyway, on another note.
Does anyone here have a mother who they often clash with - because they are just too similar?
Or does your mum have friends whom you think are just a bad influence on her, nonetheless you have to smile and and bear with them?
Or do you have parents that are divorced so a visit to see your parents always needs to be a 48 hour visit - a day with mum and a day with dad?
Or is there the issue where trying to please mum means displeasing dad for some reason, and vice versa?
Well Alhamdulillah apart for the 48 hour visits a lot of these issues are past tense for me, here is why....
Oh and for those of you who do not have these problems Alhamdulillah, there is plenty plenty more for you....
And.... There is a room upstairs for us mothers with babies and young children, (we often have a stash of chocolate too for after, but don't tell anyone!)
.
I'm very glad I sat the exam, I was very close to not sitting it, Maymoonah was very unwell last week so I wasn't able to revise much and felt stressed about the exam.
Alhamdulillah the Sheikh (may Allah preserve him) reminded us in the final online revision session that we are not learning for an exam but to please Allah. SubhanAllah its easy to forget this point.
After I instilled this in myself I felt a lot calmer, regardless of how much I had revised.
Also my 'younger' sister told me, 'Don't think of it as an exam, think of it as a knowledge assessment test!' After that, I felt even calmer. Alhamdulillah.
I did expect the exam to be case based though and felt the paper could have been more challenging, but thats not to say it was easy.... time will tell inshaAllah.
Now, the mission begins to bring AlKauthar to Manchester....
Anyway, on another note.
Does anyone here have a mother who they often clash with - because they are just too similar?
Or does your mum have friends whom you think are just a bad influence on her, nonetheless you have to smile and and bear with them?
Or do you have parents that are divorced so a visit to see your parents always needs to be a 48 hour visit - a day with mum and a day with dad?
Or is there the issue where trying to please mum means displeasing dad for some reason, and vice versa?
Well Alhamdulillah apart for the 48 hour visits a lot of these issues are past tense for me, here is why....
Oh and for those of you who do not have these problems Alhamdulillah, there is plenty plenty more for you....
And.... There is a room upstairs for us mothers with babies and young children, (we often have a stash of chocolate too for after, but don't tell anyone!)
.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Business in Hulme Market
Two new Muslim Businesses inside Hulme Market, (Or sometimes known as Moss side Market.)
Hulme Market,
Moss Lane East
Manchester,
M15,
Be Sure to visit!
ewebcreation
And ImageParfum who sell Perfume, Hijaabs, Niqaabs and Chadors (Khimars.)
visit their website Imageparfume
.
Hulme Market,
Moss Lane East
Manchester,
M15,
Be Sure to visit!
ewebcreation
And ImageParfum who sell Perfume, Hijaabs, Niqaabs and Chadors (Khimars.)
visit their website Imageparfume
.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Things Mom Taught us!
Ok, I just happened to come across this today and I just had to post it - NOT because its 'Mothers evening'.
1. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."
2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."
3. My mother taught me LOGIC.
" Because I said so, that's why."
4. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC.
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the
store with me."
5. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."
6. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."
7. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."
8. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"
9. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."
10. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."
11. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"
12. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"
13. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have
wonderful parents like you do."
14. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."
15. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"
16. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way."
17. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"
18. My mother taught me HUMOR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."
19. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."
20. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."
21. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"
22. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."
23. My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"
Taken from Islamway Sisters.
1. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."
2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."
3. My mother taught me LOGIC.
" Because I said so, that's why."
4. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC.
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the
store with me."
5. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."
6. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."
7. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."
8. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"
9. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."
10. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."
11. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"
12. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"
13. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have
wonderful parents like you do."
14. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."
15. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"
16. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way."
17. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"
18. My mother taught me HUMOR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."
19. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."
20. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."
21. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"
22. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."
23. My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"
Taken from Islamway Sisters.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Reflections on the past few weeks.
(Is it just me or is it hard to reflect at all until the baby is in bed?)
The death of My Grandfather.
As I sat reading Tafsir (Explanation) of Surah Baqarah late one night, 3 weeks ago, my sister rang with the news of the death of my grandfather.
"And (remember) when We took a covenant from the Children of Israel, (Saying): Worship none but Allah (alone) and be dutiful and good to parents, and to kindred, and to orphans and (the poor), and speak good to people and perform As-Salaah (The prayer) and Give Zakaah (Obligatory Alms)....."
The explanation on how to be good to the relatives, included Gifting them, visiting them and making du'aa (Invoking) for them when they are alive and dead, it was after reading this statement that I received the news. How great is the Mercy of Our Creator that I was able to read the guidance, literally seconds before the Calamity.
I went to see my father as early as I could the following day. He kept repeating one sentence over and over again, "I never did enough for him'. As far as I was aware My father did so much for my Grandfather, in fact he probably did more for him in terms of supporting him and looking after him than all my aunts and uncles put together. And that is more than I've ever done for my parents. Yet, in his opinion - it wasn't enough....
"Making du'aa (Invoking) for them when they are alive and dead..."
My grandfather is probably the closest relative to me who has returned Back to God. In my 24 years of living I have only known 3 other people to die. Therefore, I'm ashamed to say praying for the deceased has never been high on my agenda of things and people to pray for. It was my younger sister that reminded me or rather she asked me 'What about praying for my grandmother (my father's mum, or My Nana - (My mums father) who had both passed away years before. My grandmother had returned to God before we were born. I remember as a child my dad had said a prayer for her, and I probably repeated 'Ameen' after his. That is the last I remember of praying for her. Just because we didn't know them, my sister reminded me, " do they not have rights upon us?"
Before Its too late..
My neighbour Sadie is an elderly lady who lives across the road from us. Since we moved to this house she has been the only neighbour to visit us and told us if we ever needed anything to give her a shout. And when the whole Niqaab (Muslim Veil) fiasco was going on in the media, she told me to "ignore it all and stay strong."
A few weeks ago I realised that I hadn't seen her for a while, and my husband also mentioned the last time he saw her he recalls that she looks very tired. It was on the back of my mind for weeks that I need to call in on her. Weeks! Are we so engrossed in our day to day lives that we forget to give people their rights?
Early one morning last week, I awoke to a voice outside shouting, "Nan?" Her grandson was knocking on her door, shouting her, throwing small stones at her window. But there was no sign of her.
As he carried on for over half an hour my heart began beating and I thought the worst had happened. And I had been to busy to visit her.
After another looong ten minutes of his knocking - a tired looking Sadie opened her door to her grandson. I text my husband with relief that she was alive. Thank God. He told me to visit her ASAP as soon as her grandson leaves.
Too caught up in life again, it wasn't until the next morning that I went to see her.
How easily we forget...
Al Kauthar Institute and Al Maghrib Institute
It is in my opinion and the opinion of a friend of mine who has also attended a few of the AlKauthar Institute courses that the Alkauthar and Almaghrib institutes are indeed a revolution.
Throughout the Years of attending lectures, and circles and listening to lectures and reading etc. Rarely do we get knowledge along with good practical tips on how to apply this knowledge in our day to day lives in today's world.
After returning from 'The real Deal' I find myself lost for words on how to describe it, shocked at how easily we can fall into Ribaa (Usury), and we have all indeed been touched by the dust of Ribaa, and hopeful that I am slightly more clued up at what is permissible and what isn't in trade and commerce.
It was very much different from my study of commercial Law at university - which as far as I can remember focused mainly on how to get out of our contracts or rather - 'exemption clauses'
I know some people are of the opinion that such courses may lead us to become our own judges - which would be very dangerous, I think I have come away from the course feeling quite the opposite.
Praise be to God Almighty, our teacher (may God preserve him), provided us with a good foundation on the basic principles of transactions etc in Islam, that which is clearly permissible and impermissible - essential knowledge to have since we all deal in in the most basic forms of transactions in our daily lives.
Its strange that we wouldn't really think that 'The study of the Fiqh of business transactions' would increase us in or make us feel stronger in faith, but I found the course successful in providing a balance between hope and fear of Allah, The Almighty.
It provided hope for us that there are indeed halal alternatives to what is haram (forbidden) in trade and commerce, It also increased us in fear - that we may fall into that which is impermissible, hence we will always return to the scholars for our legal rulings based on our own situations.
I would strongly recommend everyone who can do so to attend the upcoming courses, The Mark of a Jurist - Qawaidul Fiqh 101 (Knowledge of the principles of Islamic Jurisprudence) and The price of Salvation - All about the Fiqh of Zakaah. (The rulings pertaining to the Obligatory Alms).
Visit www.alkauthar.org for more detail.
Places are Limited!!
The death of My Grandfather.
As I sat reading Tafsir (Explanation) of Surah Baqarah late one night, 3 weeks ago, my sister rang with the news of the death of my grandfather.
"And (remember) when We took a covenant from the Children of Israel, (Saying): Worship none but Allah (alone) and be dutiful and good to parents, and to kindred, and to orphans and (the poor), and speak good to people and perform As-Salaah (The prayer) and Give Zakaah (Obligatory Alms)....."
The explanation on how to be good to the relatives, included Gifting them, visiting them and making du'aa (Invoking) for them when they are alive and dead, it was after reading this statement that I received the news. How great is the Mercy of Our Creator that I was able to read the guidance, literally seconds before the Calamity.
I went to see my father as early as I could the following day. He kept repeating one sentence over and over again, "I never did enough for him'. As far as I was aware My father did so much for my Grandfather, in fact he probably did more for him in terms of supporting him and looking after him than all my aunts and uncles put together. And that is more than I've ever done for my parents. Yet, in his opinion - it wasn't enough....
"Making du'aa (Invoking) for them when they are alive and dead..."
My grandfather is probably the closest relative to me who has returned Back to God. In my 24 years of living I have only known 3 other people to die. Therefore, I'm ashamed to say praying for the deceased has never been high on my agenda of things and people to pray for. It was my younger sister that reminded me or rather she asked me 'What about praying for my grandmother (my father's mum, or My Nana - (My mums father) who had both passed away years before. My grandmother had returned to God before we were born. I remember as a child my dad had said a prayer for her, and I probably repeated 'Ameen' after his. That is the last I remember of praying for her. Just because we didn't know them, my sister reminded me, " do they not have rights upon us?"
Before Its too late..
My neighbour Sadie is an elderly lady who lives across the road from us. Since we moved to this house she has been the only neighbour to visit us and told us if we ever needed anything to give her a shout. And when the whole Niqaab (Muslim Veil) fiasco was going on in the media, she told me to "ignore it all and stay strong."
A few weeks ago I realised that I hadn't seen her for a while, and my husband also mentioned the last time he saw her he recalls that she looks very tired. It was on the back of my mind for weeks that I need to call in on her. Weeks! Are we so engrossed in our day to day lives that we forget to give people their rights?
Early one morning last week, I awoke to a voice outside shouting, "Nan?" Her grandson was knocking on her door, shouting her, throwing small stones at her window. But there was no sign of her.
As he carried on for over half an hour my heart began beating and I thought the worst had happened. And I had been to busy to visit her.
After another looong ten minutes of his knocking - a tired looking Sadie opened her door to her grandson. I text my husband with relief that she was alive. Thank God. He told me to visit her ASAP as soon as her grandson leaves.
Too caught up in life again, it wasn't until the next morning that I went to see her.
How easily we forget...
Al Kauthar Institute and Al Maghrib Institute
It is in my opinion and the opinion of a friend of mine who has also attended a few of the AlKauthar Institute courses that the Alkauthar and Almaghrib institutes are indeed a revolution.
Throughout the Years of attending lectures, and circles and listening to lectures and reading etc. Rarely do we get knowledge along with good practical tips on how to apply this knowledge in our day to day lives in today's world.
After returning from 'The real Deal' I find myself lost for words on how to describe it, shocked at how easily we can fall into Ribaa (Usury), and we have all indeed been touched by the dust of Ribaa, and hopeful that I am slightly more clued up at what is permissible and what isn't in trade and commerce.
It was very much different from my study of commercial Law at university - which as far as I can remember focused mainly on how to get out of our contracts or rather - 'exemption clauses'
I know some people are of the opinion that such courses may lead us to become our own judges - which would be very dangerous, I think I have come away from the course feeling quite the opposite.
Praise be to God Almighty, our teacher (may God preserve him), provided us with a good foundation on the basic principles of transactions etc in Islam, that which is clearly permissible and impermissible - essential knowledge to have since we all deal in in the most basic forms of transactions in our daily lives.
Its strange that we wouldn't really think that 'The study of the Fiqh of business transactions' would increase us in or make us feel stronger in faith, but I found the course successful in providing a balance between hope and fear of Allah, The Almighty.
It provided hope for us that there are indeed halal alternatives to what is haram (forbidden) in trade and commerce, It also increased us in fear - that we may fall into that which is impermissible, hence we will always return to the scholars for our legal rulings based on our own situations.
I would strongly recommend everyone who can do so to attend the upcoming courses, The Mark of a Jurist - Qawaidul Fiqh 101 (Knowledge of the principles of Islamic Jurisprudence) and The price of Salvation - All about the Fiqh of Zakaah. (The rulings pertaining to the Obligatory Alms).
Visit www.alkauthar.org for more detail.
Places are Limited!!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
The Real Deal!
AlKauthar Institute Course 2007.
Saturday 10th March - Sunday 11th March
8.30am - 7.00pm -
Main lecture theatre, University of East London, 4-6 University Way,
London, E16 2RD.
to enrol go to www.alkauthar.org
8.30am - 7.00pm -
Main lecture theatre, University of East London, 4-6 University Way,
London, E16 2RD.
to enrol go to www.alkauthar.org
AlKauthar - Enriching Lives Through Knowledge.
The Real Deal - The Fiqh of Business Transactions
Saturday 10th March - Sunday 11th March
8.30am - 7.00pm -
Main lecture theatre, University of East London, 4-6 University Way,
London, E16 2RD.
to enrol go to www.alkauthar.org
Cheap acommodation options available for out of town students.
"And Allah has permitted trade, but forbidden riba" [AlBaqarah: 275]
One of the most difficult and confusing issues to Muslims now a days are the matters pertaining to the rulings of buying and selling. With trade and commerce having expanded with such rapid force, many are searching for what Islam has to say about it all. Of recent, a surge in global Islamic finance and the renewed interest in Shariah business law - requires us to understand the basic principles upon which Islam bases its ruling.
In this course, you will be introduced to:
- The fiqh of Commerce in Shariah
- Transactions and their classifications
- Forbidden contracts and their understanding
- The correct understanding and application of Riba
- Understand heylah and how to detect it
- Understand how the element of uncertainity may affect the validity of a transaction
- Principles of halal investment
- Manners of a Muslim businessman
- Comparisons between Western commercial law and Shariah business law
- Discussion of tens of the most popular modern business transactions - everything from credit cards, road side assistance, pyramind schemes, ebay, unlimited downloads, no deposit lay-bys, cash back policies, modern Islamic mortgages and investments in bonds, stocks and metals, laws on business and intellectual property, franchising..
- Discussion of sample contracts from Islamic financial institutions
- A preliminary study of how to Islamize large scale economic policies and ensure smooth transition to a riba free economy.
"I have never attended a more beneficial lecture. It just blew away my mind!" [Quote from a student]
These series of lectures are best sellers world wide. This particular course goes into much more detail than the lessons that may be available in the market under the title: "Halal and Haram of Business Transactions", so even if you have seen that DVD, you still need to attend this course to gain full and maximum benefit.
Who is this course for?
- Every Muslim who wants to fear Allah and steer clear from falling into haram and riba.
- Businessmen who want to learn about Islamic business policy and ettiquets.
- Muslims who want to have a deep insight into understanding the goals and purposes of Shariah in business and trade.
- Students of Law faculties trying to understand the basis of Islamic Commercial Law.
- Finance professionals who would like more insight and clarification as to the Islamic logic behind many of its rulings.
- New Muslims who want to understand their Deen.
What will you come out with at the end of the course?
- A binder complete with notes on the details of the principles of Islamic commercial law.
- Hundreds of examples on how the rules and regulations are applied practically.
- Understand how the the Islamic commercial system is far superior and just than the current systems.
- Practical understanding of the rulings of a large number of modern transactions.
- Motivation to applying the rules towards deducing solutions to our current problems.
Course materials
When you sign up for a course, at the first session, you will be given a binder full of notes and important reading regarding the fiqh of Commerce 101. You will be able to take down notes directly in the folder - this will stay with you for your future reference. In addition, the online facility will have extra points for reading and analysis including sample tests to check your understanding.
Course particulars
Faculty: Fiqh
Type: Core topic
Credits: 3
Duration of Course: 18 hours which includes 4 instructor led sessions of 4 hours each + 2 hours of online tasks
Timing and Venue
8.30am - 7.00pm -
Main lecture theatre, University of East London, 4-6 University Way,
London, E16 2RD.
to enrol go to www.alkauthar.org
- Don't be afraid of the hours. AlKauthar Institute seminars are not long lectures upon lectures hours on end. There will be many different and new ways we are imparting knowledge to ensure we make it interactive, interesting, exciting and thought provoking.
- Times include a 2 hour break in the early afternoon
- There will be plenty of refresher breaks in between hours to ensure student attention is maximised
We only have limited seats at each seminar. So to ensure you don't miss out we encourage you to enrol as soon as possible to confirm your seat.
Why Enrol?
Knowledge is power. It increases when you give it. It is needed by Kings and beggars alike. It eases the path to paradise. We are constantly reminded in the Qur’an and Sunnah of the importance of gaining Islamic knowledge so as to apply it in our lives. At AlKauthar Institute we have attempted to make this path as easy as possible for a Muslim, but in the end it will require your own individual commitment, dedication and hardwork to gain the pleasure of Allah.
Remember:
- The benefits you receive for the fee you pay for these courses will far out weigh the benefits you will receive from the payment of any other course such as university fees, professional membership fees, conference fees amongst many others.
- Practicality is always emphasised. You will learn so much in such little time and in such a manner that will ensure that you will be able to impart that knowledge straight away. Come and experience the AlKauthar Method and the world's first Case based islamic learning.
- Give your islamic education solid direction. One course at a time you will edge closer to a diploma, degree and honours.
- Instructors who will provide engaging and enjoyable university level lessons in a professional manner at ideal venues complimenting our technology focused teaching style. Our instructors also have plenty of experience dealing with Muslim affairs in the West.
- Our student advisors and online student centre, most notably the e-learn facility will be pioneering the way in the delivery of Islamic education. This is combined with the support of an online community consisting of your instructors and your fellow students from around Australia and the world.
AlKauthar Institute is aiming to develop a pioneering world class Islamic learning institute, providing a professional and refreshing approach to Islamic courses which will touch the hearts and revive the souls. Come and see for yourself how we attempt to seek the reward of Allah by enriching the lives of individuals and communities.
Rarely do opportunities like this come our way whilst we are healthy and able. Take advantage of the chance! What will you be missing out on if you don't?
AlKauthar - Enriching Lives Through Knowledge.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
A story
Yours "Forever"
It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 am, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.
I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over in an hour before someone would be able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound.
On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, we began to engage in conversation. I asked him if he had a doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.
I then inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's disease. As we talked, and I finished dressing his wound, I asked if she would be worried if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was; that she had not recognized him in five years now.
I was surprised, and asked him. And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are? He smiled as he patted my hand and said: She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.
I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and
Thought… That is the kind of love I want in my life. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
Taken from Islamway Sisters.
It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 am, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.
I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over in an hour before someone would be able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound.
On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, we began to engage in conversation. I asked him if he had a doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.
I then inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's disease. As we talked, and I finished dressing his wound, I asked if she would be worried if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was; that she had not recognized him in five years now.
I was surprised, and asked him. And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are? He smiled as he patted my hand and said: She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.
I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and
Thought… That is the kind of love I want in my life. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
Taken from Islamway Sisters.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Is it possible to be a busy wife, mother AND look good?
Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "When a woman prays her five prayers, fasts her month (of Ramadan), preserves her chastity, and obeys her husband, then she may enter the Jannah (Paradise) from any door she chooses." [Ahmad and others; authentic]
Before marriage we read many books on how to obey our husbands and how to be good wives. One of the main things that was emphasized was adorning ourselves for our husbands.
How easy! We would think. Is that it? And we couldn't understand it when we would see married sisters who didn't.
After marriage - 'It's still easy - with the odd 'bad hair day' here and there.'
Lately I've been thinking. We make too many excuses, there are too many beautiful woman out there to make excuses. As for the last excuse, a sister responded, 'We know that losing even a few pounds doesn't happen over night. And what to do in the meantime? Plus we could die tommorrow so lets make the most of how we look.'
A sister commented about adorning herself for her husband, 'I'd honestly rather have him expect to come home to see his wife in the best form and therefore push himself harder to lower his gaze, than have him expect to come home and find me in jogging pants and a t-shirt and find it harder to resist the temptations. He's out all day, and he sees all kinds of things. When he knows that if he lowers his gaze, he will be rewarded in the akhirah by Allah, and in the dunya by going home to a wife who can show him what he saw and better (because it's halal) it makes the struggle all the more worth it for him. '
Allah describes the woman as: “…one brought up among adornments” [Sûrah al-Zukhruf: 18]
Below are some practical tips and advice from various sisters that inshaAllah will help us to balance our obligations, to Allah, our husbands and children.
.
Before marriage we read many books on how to obey our husbands and how to be good wives. One of the main things that was emphasized was adorning ourselves for our husbands.
How easy! We would think. Is that it? And we couldn't understand it when we would see married sisters who didn't.
After marriage - 'It's still easy - with the odd 'bad hair day' here and there.'
After children - quotes:
'HELP!!'
'HUSBAND WHO?'
'I can't remember the last time I had a hair cut!'
'Maybe I'll just wait till Jannah InshaAllah to look beautiful....'
'I don't know where to start, it seems like sooo long ago....'
'I need to loose 2 stones first!'
'HUSBAND WHO?'
'I can't remember the last time I had a hair cut!'
'Maybe I'll just wait till Jannah InshaAllah to look beautiful....'
'I don't know where to start, it seems like sooo long ago....'
'I need to loose 2 stones first!'
Lately I've been thinking. We make too many excuses, there are too many beautiful woman out there to make excuses. As for the last excuse, a sister responded, 'We know that losing even a few pounds doesn't happen over night. And what to do in the meantime? Plus we could die tommorrow so lets make the most of how we look.'
A sister commented about adorning herself for her husband, 'I'd honestly rather have him expect to come home to see his wife in the best form and therefore push himself harder to lower his gaze, than have him expect to come home and find me in jogging pants and a t-shirt and find it harder to resist the temptations. He's out all day, and he sees all kinds of things. When he knows that if he lowers his gaze, he will be rewarded in the akhirah by Allah, and in the dunya by going home to a wife who can show him what he saw and better (because it's halal) it makes the struggle all the more worth it for him. '
Allah describes the woman as: “…one brought up among adornments” [Sûrah al-Zukhruf: 18]
Below are some practical tips and advice from various sisters that inshaAllah will help us to balance our obligations, to Allah, our husbands and children.
- Buy clothes that are crease resistant or drip dry them to save time on ironing.
- Wear kohl - it takes a second to apply and you can do wudu over it without removing it.
- Try to find out what your husband likes, styles, clothes etc. That always makes things easier. (Ebay is great for this because you can show the pictures of the items before buying - pictures without women in them of course.)
- Time is of the essence! Learn to have quick showers and get ready in a few minutes.
- Practice doing different hairstyles and keep a note of quick ones that look good. Loose buns look great with casual clothes.
- Wear perfume and matching body lotion. A sister said, 'I quickly apply body lotion to sweat areas (ie under arms) straight after a shower and a quick spray of matching perfume to my home clothes so I'm always smelling good.
- Buy clothes that are comfortable - but look good. A sister said, 'Lately I've bought a new wardrobe from ebay (bargain prices! My husbands favourite dress cost me 2 pounds - including postage and packaging!) I've bought some dresses that are comfortable, flattering, not too long so i don't trip over it and can climb up and down the stairs with my daughter. I buy dresses that have some sleeves so i can wear them in front of other women also . I try to look for Warm fabric so i don't freeze on cold days and Comfortable enough to do all household chores in. Also I make sure it has a side zip, or i can pull down the neck because im breastfeeding still.'
- Wear Simple Jewellery that don't get in the way of things.
- Try to balance things ie cooking, cleaning, dressing up. Don't do too much of any so it ends up that you're neglecting the others.
- Going out. A sister said, 'I try not to go out too much Because my hijab makes my hair flat. Also I do most of my shopping online rather than spend a whole day in town with my toddler moaning in her buggy and not getting anything I needed or wanted.'
- Mirror Mirror.... A sister once said, 'A wise woman is one who has a mirror in her Kitchen!'
- Water of life. Remember to always drink plenty of water for radiant skin.
- Oh Sugar! Sugar and water is a fast, cheap and effective way to Exfoliate!
- Remember the most important thing is DUA!!! A sister said, 'I pray to Allah in Sujood to make me the most beautiful woman for my Husband in this world and the next.'
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Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Advice about Journalists
Advice about Journalists
I was aproached by a journalist last month about the issue of Niqaab. She claimed she wanted to do a positive peice on the veil. For more detail see here http://forums.almaghrib.org/showthread.php?t=18152
Anyway she seemed quite eager for me to participate. I managed to get her to agree that nothing will be aired until I first see any recording and am happy that it represents my views. She agreed. Untill I insisted that I would like that in writing. In other words any copyright would belong to myself - not the BBC.
Did she contact me again? Well, what do you think?
I even chased her up and said 'I would absolutely love to help her and I was looking forward to it!'. She said she would be in touch.....
:-) Im still waiting.............
I was aproached by a journalist last month about the issue of Niqaab. She claimed she wanted to do a positive peice on the veil. For more detail see here http://forums.almaghrib.org/showthread.php?t=18152
Anyway she seemed quite eager for me to participate. I managed to get her to agree that nothing will be aired until I first see any recording and am happy that it represents my views. She agreed. Untill I insisted that I would like that in writing. In other words any copyright would belong to myself - not the BBC.
Did she contact me again? Well, what do you think?
I even chased her up and said 'I would absolutely love to help her and I was looking forward to it!'. She said she would be in touch.....
:-) Im still waiting.............
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Shocking Survey Reveals 6% of Israeli Women Raped
By Cihan News Agency, Tel Aviv
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
In Israel, where President Moshe Katsav is riddled with accusations of rape and sexual assault, a new survey revealed that six percent of women are subject to rape.
A survey conducted by Tel Hai College Women’s Studies Department showed that three out of every four women were subject to sexual harassment by their neighbors, friends or husbands.
Conducted among 200 women aged 15-50 in Israel, the survey revealed the vast extent to which rape exists.
Thirty-three percent of Israeli women were subject to sexual harassment, according to the study.
Department Head Abigail Moore, who led the study, emphasized the survey had alarming implications for society.
Moore stated the results were the apparent tip of the iceberg and maintained women were subject to sexual harassment “only because they are women.”
Stating 65 percent of women, whether subject to sexual harassment or not, admit their way of dressing was provocative, Moore emphasized it could not be inferred that a woman’s “way of dressing provokes rape.”
The research showed that 61 percent of women are physically harassed and nine out of 10 women are the victims of verbal harassment.
Moore said such a similar high rate of rape could be seen in Europe.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
My Niqaab
I’m often traveling here and there, from study sessions to shopping and visiting friends and family. I use public transport a lot and have often been out in the summer during the numerous heat waves we’ve had. On the whole I’ve enjoyed wearing my veil with a few negative experiences with ignorant people from time to time – but I had just as many, if not more negative experiences before I wore my veil and even before I wore my Hijaab! The problems are in the society we live in – with Muslims and non Muslims alike – not the veil.
I have never had problems communicating with people, men or women. Although as a Muslim woman I will refrain from talking to men unnecessarily, regardless of whether or not I cover my face.
During the summer I’ve noticed people in town, on the buses looking really hot and bothered. They strip down to cool themselves, using the ‘Metro’ as a fan. I just sit there quite comfortably head to toe in soft cotton. I make my own chadors so I get to choose what fabric I wear and obviously certain fabrics are better than others for different seasons. And because they are so loose and flow, they allow a breeze and feel quite cool.
Women have often asked me if I feel hot, when I’ve let them feel the fabric of my Hijaab, they’ve often replied things like, and ‘Wow that does feel cool!’ Or, jokingly, ‘Can I borrow it?’
Regarding my career I chose to work with special needs children and teach. I’ve had several different jobs where I was able to wear my Niqaab. I’ve also worked in a couple of state schools where I did remove my Niqaab in the classroom, in the presence of just the children or female teachers.
With regard to Aisha Azmi’s case I feel that disallowing her Niqaab and consequently sacking her, is denying children their right to a full education! An education of understanding faith and diversity.
Recently a friend of mine graduated with a 1st class honors from Uni. In full Hijaab and Niqaab, one would assume a certain degree of communication was needed, in her tutorials or presentations for her to achieve that result.
I can understand though, why persueing certain other careers with Niqaab would be difficult in this country. Like being a doctor for example. Mainly due to lack of understanding and Education. But I don't think it would be impossible.
My husband and I visited Sweden last year, and if it wasn’t for the weather and the exceptionally high Tax rates - I would want to live there. It is said that 95% of the lakes are so clean you could actually drink from them! Not to mention the public toilets, they reminded me of a scene from a DAZ advert.
Whilst we were there I met up with Umm Anas – a Swedish national whose husband is in prison in France under the so called war on terror. (Read about her campaign on www.cageprisoners.com).
She is probably one of a few Muslim women in Stockholm who wears the Niqaab and as I accompanied her in running some errands I thought we would in the very least get a few stares, as it’s so rare to see the Niqaab or even many Muslims there. But nobody looked at us or treated us any differently, it was as though we weren’t dressed the way we were.
And why are the Swedes the way they are? Their education system.
I think there is much we could learn from the Swedish people. From a young age right at the beginning stages of their education they are taught to respect. Respect nature, respect people, and respect each other.
Umm Maymoonah.
I have never had problems communicating with people, men or women. Although as a Muslim woman I will refrain from talking to men unnecessarily, regardless of whether or not I cover my face.
During the summer I’ve noticed people in town, on the buses looking really hot and bothered. They strip down to cool themselves, using the ‘Metro’ as a fan. I just sit there quite comfortably head to toe in soft cotton. I make my own chadors so I get to choose what fabric I wear and obviously certain fabrics are better than others for different seasons. And because they are so loose and flow, they allow a breeze and feel quite cool.
Women have often asked me if I feel hot, when I’ve let them feel the fabric of my Hijaab, they’ve often replied things like, and ‘Wow that does feel cool!’ Or, jokingly, ‘Can I borrow it?’
Regarding my career I chose to work with special needs children and teach. I’ve had several different jobs where I was able to wear my Niqaab. I’ve also worked in a couple of state schools where I did remove my Niqaab in the classroom, in the presence of just the children or female teachers.
With regard to Aisha Azmi’s case I feel that disallowing her Niqaab and consequently sacking her, is denying children their right to a full education! An education of understanding faith and diversity.
Recently a friend of mine graduated with a 1st class honors from Uni. In full Hijaab and Niqaab, one would assume a certain degree of communication was needed, in her tutorials or presentations for her to achieve that result.
I can understand though, why persueing certain other careers with Niqaab would be difficult in this country. Like being a doctor for example. Mainly due to lack of understanding and Education. But I don't think it would be impossible.
My husband and I visited Sweden last year, and if it wasn’t for the weather and the exceptionally high Tax rates - I would want to live there. It is said that 95% of the lakes are so clean you could actually drink from them! Not to mention the public toilets, they reminded me of a scene from a DAZ advert.
Whilst we were there I met up with Umm Anas – a Swedish national whose husband is in prison in France under the so called war on terror. (Read about her campaign on www.cageprisoners.com).
She is probably one of a few Muslim women in Stockholm who wears the Niqaab and as I accompanied her in running some errands I thought we would in the very least get a few stares, as it’s so rare to see the Niqaab or even many Muslims there. But nobody looked at us or treated us any differently, it was as though we weren’t dressed the way we were.
And why are the Swedes the way they are? Their education system.
I think there is much we could learn from the Swedish people. From a young age right at the beginning stages of their education they are taught to respect. Respect nature, respect people, and respect each other.
Umm Maymoonah.
The Issue of the veil.
On Saturday evening I received a phone call from a friend. ‘We need a niqaabi to go on the radio and discuss the niqaab!’
Apart from my daughter being unwell – hence very cranky, I wasn’t too keen. For a start I thought to myself, what would I say? And is there any point? I declined the invitation.
Its obvious that people will always ask us about issue’s that they find extremely hard to comprehend. And of course they would, as even many Muslims find issues such as polygamy and niqaab very hard to comprehend.
If someone asked us why do some women cover their faces or why are men allowed to marry four women? How many of us would be able to answer them in the correct way? How many of us actually are aware of the beautiful wisdoms behind these issues?
If we don’t then now is the time to find out. Not only for ourselves, to increase our faith with knowledge of Gods perfect wisdom, but also so we can teach these pearls of wisdom to others.
I remember reading ‘Polygamy In Islam’, By Dr Bilal Philips and Jameelah Jones.
After reading that book I actually WANTED to be a co wife! I’m sure you won’t hear that from many women, especially women who have been brought in the west.
Then after learning about it from, ‘A principle of Shariah’ point of view it only served to strengthen my conviction in Gods supreme Laws.
Likewise with the Niqaab. People always assume I'm wearing it because my husband told me to and are often very surprised to hear that I was wearing it for a very long time before I married my husband.
Even my In - Laws who are not Muslim still seem to blame it – amongst other things - on my husband – poor thing.
If I say ‘no thank you to a cup of tea or cake, he even gets scolded by his mum, ‘aww let her have a slice of cake’.
‘I couldn’t stop her eating if I tried’ he laughs. But she seems not to hear.
Recently one of the questions that was asked to a sister on a radio discussion was, ‘I bet you can’t wait to take it off when you get home?’
I found myself thinking, Yes, in the same way many women can’t wait to take off their high heals after work or an evening out. Or a man loosens his tie when he is in a more relaxed atmosphere, or when a lady pulls her hair back into a pony or a bun so she can Chillaax! And yes, so that I can greet my husband and daughter or my loved ones with a warm smile.
Four years ago, soon after I graduated I attended a training course where I had to spend 2 weeks working with a mixed group of about 15 men and women.
Throughout the first session their was A LOT of flirting going on. Then during a break when the women left the room for a drink the men started backbiting and making lewd comments about the ‘appearance’ of the women. I thanked God so much for my Niqaab that day!
These women had no idea because the men were so ‘nice’ to them. It kind of got too much for me though, as they were using very foul language, (maybe they thought my veil meant I couldn’t hear or something). I told them ‘very’ politely to mind there language and they all started apologizing profusely
The next day on the way to training I saw one of the men on the bus and he recognized me. Again he apologized to me and said he’s sorry if he offended me. He said, ‘I’m really sorry, I don’t normally swear’. I asked him, ‘Is it just coz you’re with the guys?’ He just looked down embarrassed. He then started to talk about career prospects, it came up in conversation that I had just graduated from the school of Law Needless to say, he looked absolutely shocked.
I felt he had treated me with a lot of respect because of my full Hijaab and Niqaab, respected me for my speech and thoughts rather than treated nicely for the way I looked.
But although he respected me, he still didn’t understand my way of life or why I chose to dress the way I do.
I think the fact of the matter is, no matter how much dawa we give, talk or answer questions about Niqaab, or other things in Islam. One cannot fully comprehend this matter or understand it unless they understand our relationship with God.
If someone cannot count, how will they understand algebra? Likewise full comprehension and understanding of Niqaab and other such issues will only come with going back to understand the basics.
That is full comprehension of God’s Oneness, His Unity, and His divine Laws – the Shari'ah and its Principles. Only then can one understand our full Obedience to Him as our creator and sustainer and Law Giver.
I would advise All Muslims and Non- Muslims alike to look at it from this angle first.
Apart from my daughter being unwell – hence very cranky, I wasn’t too keen. For a start I thought to myself, what would I say? And is there any point? I declined the invitation.
Its obvious that people will always ask us about issue’s that they find extremely hard to comprehend. And of course they would, as even many Muslims find issues such as polygamy and niqaab very hard to comprehend.
If someone asked us why do some women cover their faces or why are men allowed to marry four women? How many of us would be able to answer them in the correct way? How many of us actually are aware of the beautiful wisdoms behind these issues?
If we don’t then now is the time to find out. Not only for ourselves, to increase our faith with knowledge of Gods perfect wisdom, but also so we can teach these pearls of wisdom to others.
I remember reading ‘Polygamy In Islam’, By Dr Bilal Philips and Jameelah Jones.
After reading that book I actually WANTED to be a co wife! I’m sure you won’t hear that from many women, especially women who have been brought in the west.
Then after learning about it from, ‘A principle of Shariah’ point of view it only served to strengthen my conviction in Gods supreme Laws.
Likewise with the Niqaab. People always assume I'm wearing it because my husband told me to and are often very surprised to hear that I was wearing it for a very long time before I married my husband.
Even my In - Laws who are not Muslim still seem to blame it – amongst other things - on my husband – poor thing.
If I say ‘no thank you to a cup of tea or cake, he even gets scolded by his mum, ‘aww let her have a slice of cake’.
‘I couldn’t stop her eating if I tried’ he laughs. But she seems not to hear.
Recently one of the questions that was asked to a sister on a radio discussion was, ‘I bet you can’t wait to take it off when you get home?’
I found myself thinking, Yes, in the same way many women can’t wait to take off their high heals after work or an evening out. Or a man loosens his tie when he is in a more relaxed atmosphere, or when a lady pulls her hair back into a pony or a bun so she can Chillaax! And yes, so that I can greet my husband and daughter or my loved ones with a warm smile.
Four years ago, soon after I graduated I attended a training course where I had to spend 2 weeks working with a mixed group of about 15 men and women.
Throughout the first session their was A LOT of flirting going on. Then during a break when the women left the room for a drink the men started backbiting and making lewd comments about the ‘appearance’ of the women. I thanked God so much for my Niqaab that day!
These women had no idea because the men were so ‘nice’ to them. It kind of got too much for me though, as they were using very foul language, (maybe they thought my veil meant I couldn’t hear or something). I told them ‘very’ politely to mind there language and they all started apologizing profusely
The next day on the way to training I saw one of the men on the bus and he recognized me. Again he apologized to me and said he’s sorry if he offended me. He said, ‘I’m really sorry, I don’t normally swear’. I asked him, ‘Is it just coz you’re with the guys?’ He just looked down embarrassed. He then started to talk about career prospects, it came up in conversation that I had just graduated from the school of Law Needless to say, he looked absolutely shocked.
I felt he had treated me with a lot of respect because of my full Hijaab and Niqaab, respected me for my speech and thoughts rather than treated nicely for the way I looked.
But although he respected me, he still didn’t understand my way of life or why I chose to dress the way I do.
I think the fact of the matter is, no matter how much dawa we give, talk or answer questions about Niqaab, or other things in Islam. One cannot fully comprehend this matter or understand it unless they understand our relationship with God.
If someone cannot count, how will they understand algebra? Likewise full comprehension and understanding of Niqaab and other such issues will only come with going back to understand the basics.
That is full comprehension of God’s Oneness, His Unity, and His divine Laws – the Shari'ah and its Principles. Only then can one understand our full Obedience to Him as our creator and sustainer and Law Giver.
I would advise All Muslims and Non- Muslims alike to look at it from this angle first.
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