Shahru Ramadhan: Benefits of Hunger

The Almighty (SWT) said: "O Ahmad (SAW)!  Were you only to taste the sweetness of hunger, silence, solitude, and were you to taste their legacy!"

The Prophet (SAW) said: "Lord! What is the legacy of hunger?” 

The Almighty (SWT) said: "It is wisdom, the safeguarding of the heart, the nearness to Me, continued grief, the carrying of a light burden compared to others, the saying of the truth without being concerned whether one lives in ease or in hardship.
- From the Hadith Qudsi of Me'raj

The "Hunger Games" are about to begin again soon as we rapidly approach Shahru Ramadhan; its a month that embodies our religion as it shows our total dedication (if we understand it and our intention is for it) to the Almighty (SWT).

At MIC, Sheikh Jaffer H. Jaffer has organized three weeks of classes to prepare for Shahru Ramadhan. We go over why we fast (with some of the apparent reasons); the ahkam (laws/rules) of fasting; and how to improve our spirituality. I bring this up because one of the benefits he presented was really thought-provoking and gave me the idea behind this post. So if anybody picks up any benefit from this post, the credit goes to him as well; and any shortcomings would be of my own.
On a side-note, we tend to under-appreciate some of our scholars (which I'll have a blog post as well about at some point). And on another side note, check out those classes IslamiCentre as they're really helpful.

We know that fasting has been ordered to us in the Holy Qur'an:
"O you who have believed! Decreed upon you is fasting as it was upon those before you, so that you become God-conscious." (Surah al-Baqarah; 2:183)
And we also know that no other nation has had the type of fasting & the devotion it requires that we have.

Another reason is based on part of the Hadith Qudsi of Me'raj (the Night of Ascension) that I posted above where the Almighty (SAW) speaks to Rasoolullah (SAW) and mentions the benefits of hunger. The full Hadith Qudsi of Me'raj can be found here: http://www.al-islam.org/ascension/1.htm
To quickly go back to the class and when this was brought up; the class itself provided reasons on why they thought each one of those benefits could be accomplished through hunger & fasting. My post will be based on my own thoughts, experiences, & ideas.

Wisdom
Staying hungry gives the opportunity to really reflect on ourselves. We have the chance to do a SWOT Analysis on own self (strengths; weaknesses; opportunities; threats) on a lot of different aspects and try to find ways we can get closer to the Almighty (SWT). If we truly have a sincere, genuine intention on this, then the Almighty (SWT) might find us worthy of bring granted hikmah (wisdom). As it says in the Holy Qur'an:
"He grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and whoever is granted wisdom, he indeed is given a great good and none but men of understanding of mind."
(Surah al-Baqarah; 2:269)
From my own personal experience, I know I get a lot of personal reflection done when I stay hungry. During my college/university time, it also helped me to think and understand when I was studying for exams on what I was studying. I used to eat nothing or very minimal prior to any exam (water was the main thing I needed). I don't have much more to say on hikmah; hopefully if I'm blessed with some hikmah, I could expand on this.

Safeguarding the Heart
This could be viewed from a few different angles. From a physical standpoint, it prevents us from eating haraam food or other foods that aren't so healthy (especially all those spicy & oil-filled foods which clog up the arteries and harm the heart & body). As well, our energy level may not be as high physically so we may tend to rest; our energy would then be preserved to for acts of worship/service and not towards haraam acts. With both those points, it would then help us spiritually as well as it prevents us from the sins & vices. The heart is suppose to be a sanctuary of the Almighty (SWT) and it is the best way that we can close to Him. If it isn't pure, how can one seek closeness to the One (SWT)? Remember as well that He looks at what is in our hearts:
"Allah Almighty does not look at your appearances, nor at your possessions, rather He looks at your hearts and actions."
- Prophet Muhammad (SAW) (Amali al-Tusi; p.536; no.1162)

Nearness to Allah (SWT)
One element of this goes back to safeguarding the heart as the heart is the best way we can get close to the Almighty (SWT). Staying hungry also tests our patience; patience is a virtue that will bring us closer to the Almighty (SWT), especially when we remember that we are fasting solely for Him, His pleasure, and to serve Him. A hadith that relates to this is attributed to Amir ul-Momineen (AS) (and who better to go over what patience is then him):
"Whoever patiently endures the path to Allah reaches Him."
- Imam Ali (AS) (Bihar al-Anwar; v.77; p.88; no.2)
Our service to Him then also builds our reliance on Him; it builds our yaqeen (certainty) in Him; and it also builds our trust in Him and His plan for us (i.e. Tawakkul - refer to my last post on Tawakkul; its incredible how things tie to each other isn't it?). And our conversations (i.e. salaat/prayers & duas) with Him also improve. The perfect verse from the Holy Qur'an that sums this up is the following:
"O you who believe! Seek assistance through patience and prayer; surely Allah is with the patient." (Surah al-Baqarah; 2:153)

Continued Grief
As I mentioned before, we get the opportunity to properly and constantly reflect when we are hungry. If reflect, we feel sadness repeatedly. On a first step, we would reflect on the bounties and blessings we have been given by Him but yet we tend to complain and focus on what we don't have. We realize that other people are in more terrible conditions: orphaned children who don't have food; families living under the constant fear that they could be killed at any moment; a person who is struggling to find a suitable spouse and a life companion despite searching for some time; etc. This doesn't mean that we don't have any wants, etc.; but rather, we're grateful to Him on what we have been given through His mercy and have faith in His plan on whatever happens (i.e. Tawakkul).
From there, we then reflect on how much wrong we've done to our hearts & souls; how we've gone off the path of the 14 Masumeen (AS); but more importantly, how we've disobeyed the Most Merciful (SWT) and His command. When we constantly reflect this way, we stay in a state of sadness.
From this sadness then, we then seek forgiveness. And during the nights of Laylatul Qadr, we get that opportunity through two tasbihs of istighfar. And if we are truly in a continued state of grief and sadness, we'll pour our hearts out for every wrong that we've done and our eyes will flow with tears to perform the tasbihs with the most sincerest, genuine, and purest of performances. From this, we can then also get closer to Allah (SWT) and safeguard our heart.

Carrying of a Lighter Burden Compared to Others
From a physical standpoint, it allows us to complete tasks and reduces the laze. When one is full, its really hard to do anything. Personally speaking, I feel too tired to do anything when I'm completely full. I also then have a hard-time breathing a bit (and run the risk of a stomach ache; and people who know me, know previously what's happened when I get stomach aches). Praying salaat, learning something new, etc. all becomes a challenge and we don't do it with our heart totally in it, thus reducing how close we get to Him (tying back into the two points above). Physically as well, it becomes much easier to move compared to others who fill their bellies right to the very brink (and then some).
As well from a spiritual view, it goes back to reflection. When we reflect and understanding where our weaknesses, etc. are, we can then also reflect on figuring out solutions. That helps to lighten our own spiritual burdens compared to others as we've taken the opportunity to improve ourselves and then can remain one step ahead of others. And as mentioned with the point above, we can also repent whole-heartedly and reduce the burden of sins from ourselves.

Speaking of Truth Without Being Concerned Whether One Lives in Ease or in Hardship
I do not have much hikmah on this. The only two things that come to mind tie into some of the points above. When we fast though and if we are sincerely doing it with the intention to serve and please Him, then we'll also speak the truth as per His commands. Speaking the truth will keep us in the path of haqq while speaking of lies will put us on the path of batil. Through speaking the truth as well, we safeguard our hearts by avoiding a sin (of lying) and thus can get closer to Allah (SWT) as well. It may also keep us in a continued state of grief because we can then truly reflect on ourselves and not try to cover up own shortcomings/faults by telling ourselves lies. Thus we can then repent because we truthfully admit our faults/shortcomings to Him. We can also then rely on Him and trust Him with whatever happens (i.e Tawakkul). We also don't have the burden of lies on our mind, which eases our burden (as one lie can then create a snowball effect of other lies and one would then have to constantly keep up with the lies and burden their mind/energy doing that). Plus the energy level may be low to try and think of a lie; its much easier and better overall to speak the truth. Through speaking the truth, the Almighty (SWT) may then deem a person worthy of receiving hikmah. It could also be that speaking the truth will lead us to Paradise (if we act upon it) while speaking the false will lead to the Inferno. A hadith attributed again to Amir ul-Momineen (AS) that sums this up:
"Truthfulness saves you even though you fear it whereas lying ruins you even though you feel safe from it."
 - Imam Ali (AS) (Ghurar al-Hikam; no.1118-1119)

Again, these are just some of my thoughts, experiences, and ideas. I hope we take some benefit away from it and really take up this opportunity of Shahru Ramadhan to the best of our abilities as it could be our final one. I'd also look forward to seeing what other people's thoughts are on any/all of these points above. I hope I get some comments from people on this (either on this post; wherever I share the link; or even via email).

Epiphany #2: Starting Fresh and Tawakkul

Its been quite a couple of weeks, which has felt more like a couple of months. Ups and downs; motivating and demotivating at times; peaks of energy and periods of procrastination. I can hardly believe its been only two weeks because of all the events. But the focus isn't really all the events in this post.

To give it some context, I got sick about 2 weeks ago. It wasn't as bad (or as normal) as it usually was: had a slight sore throat for a couple of days; then it developed in a bit of a runny & stuffy nose; then it kind of went back to a sore throat; and then kind of just drifted away. Prior to that, I was in a really rough period. I felt like I was finally close to my destination, but that wasn't the case (or at least that how it seems). With my back against a wall, I was holding onto a the smallest thread of hope. I'm a type of person that when the odds are 99% against me, I'll go for that 1% shot if I feel its worth it. And this 1% undoubtedly was worth it because...well I won't get into that either. But like I said, I felt it was my destination; and when things started to quickly collapse, I started losing hope, patience, and strength (both emotionally and mentally). And thankfully, that's when I got sick.

As I mentioned in my "Epiphany: Loyalty and 313" post, I have epiphanies when I get sick. And this was the perfect time for an epiphany. A much needed epiphany. The epiphany that came to me was that God always gives us an opportunity. An opportunity to start fresh; to move on & learn from the past; to have a bit of a new 'beginning'. As the saying goes, "out with the old, in with the new." Often, we are presented with opportunities for a fresh start; but we dwell so much on the past we don't see the exiting opportunities of the future. It reminds me of the following quote:
"When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us."
 - Alexander Graham Bell
I also realized that I tend to have these "starting fresh" moments when I get sick. That doesn't mean that every time I get sick that these moments pop up; rather that when I'm at crossroads, they tend to pop up.

However, my thought process didn't stop there because that would be a very limited view. What's interesting is that when you sometimes really need to hear or read something to make you feel better or realize something, someway or another it gets presented to you. I mentioned before I felt hopelessness, loss of patience, and my strength diminishing. One thing I did was pray, and absolutely pray as hard as I ever had with the most sincerest, honest, and purest of intentions. And I gave myself a timeline where after a certain point, I'd leave it in God's hands. And when did that moment come where I left this situation in the Almighty's hands? Take a guess....(wait for it)....(wait for it)...right when I got sick. Funny how sometimes thing work out isn't it?

Going back to my thoughts and 'epiphany' moment; once I realized that I was given the opportunity for a fresh start, it made me realize that the Almighty will always help you find a way through any situation if you let Him in your life; and in each situation when a fresh start is presented, He is also giving you the opportunity to get closer to Him. This should always be the goal in life - to get as close to Him as we can. Continuing on though with my thought process - what happens when we closer to somebody? Its simple; we start to trust them. And that was the climax of my epiphany - to have complete reliance, trust and yaqeen (certainty) in the Almighty and what He has planned for me; i.e. Tawakkul.

And throughout the two weeks, it seems that there was so many tweets, posts, etc. with quotes or hadiths that were telling me that same message of Tawakkul (i.e. to have complete faith, trust, & reliance in the Almighty). A couple of my favourite hadiths were:
"Only Allah will grant you ease after your hardship." - Imam Ali (AS)
"Oh Allah; when I lose my hopes and plans, help me remember that your love is greater than my disappointments, and your plans for my life are better than my dreams." - Imam Ali (AS)

It needs to be kept in mind that if He brought you to it, He'll get you through it. He knows our full potential and what we're capable of handling; and He gives us this opportunity to get closer to Him. As it states in the Holy Quran, "On no soul doth Allah place a burden greater than it can bear." (Surah al-Baqarah; 2:286)

Even in the Holy Quran, Tawakkul is mentioned multiple times as a reminder to practice it. As it states, "And whoever trusts in Allah, He is sufficient for him." (Surah at-Talaaq; 65:3)
There are also a few hadiths on Tawakkul as well and its importance. Here are two that really stand out to me:
"One, who prefers to be considered from amongst the virtuous, should rely solely upon God." - Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
"One, who entrusts his work to God, will be always at rest and will enjoy a happy life." - Imam Jafar as-Sadiq (AS)

With multiple reminders by God in the Holy Quran and by the multiple hadiths from the Ahlul Bayt (AS), Tawakkul needs to become a vital part of our lives. Not only does it help build our faith and give us an opportunity to get closer to the Almighty (SWT), but it also eases the burdens of stress on our lives to make our lives easier and happier. Now this doesn't mean that we just sit back & relax; we need to continue to work hard (and I speak to myself before I speak to others). Once we put in that effort through our actions & duas, then He'll help us through any & every situation that comes up in life.

I also did a little bit more reading into Tawakkul and noticed a link between it and Zuhd (i.e. asceticism). A person who practices Zuhd is known as a Zahid - which is my middle name. Its REALLY interesting how things work out, isn't it? Maybe that's why God blessed me with this epiphany as this crucial point in my life through those various posts, tweets, and reminders. Kind of like a full circle.

I'm thankful that getting sick helped me realized that; because once I did, it made me feel upbeat. It gave me a shift in perspective. It gave me a fresh start. It gave me more opportunities to get closer to Allah (SWT), which I'm hoping (and feeling) that I have. And most importantly, it gave me the epiphany that I much needed to remain patient and trust His plan for me.

As for my destination...who knows where it is. But I've left that up to the Almighty's. If that 1% chance of hope is to happen, then He'll make it happen. And if not, I trust His plan for me and that there is something better out there for me. He's already presented me with other opportunities so I know and I have complete yaqeen that I can rely on Him and His plan/will for me.

YMAA Leadership Retreat 2013 (Part 2)

Two weeks ago, I was able to re-visit one of the best experiences of my life and thus had another 'best experience' of my life. I was another opportunity to attend a leadership retreat for four days (like last year). I said it last year, and I'll say it again: what an incredible four days they were!

I was asked to play a different role this year, that of an Angel which had quite a few tasks. To sum it up though in one sentence, the role was to help in organizing the retreat itself. And like last year as well, there were a few challenges (albeit, somewhat different than last year). I also went in with two major thoughts/objectives:
1) How can I help others out as much as the retreat helped me last year?
2) How can I learn & develop my own skills this year?

The challenges started off from the get go and thankfully helped me in those two thoughts/objectives. The first two steps (and challenges) itself were to find participants and to fundraise for the retreat.
Finding potential participants wasn't too difficult; it was presenting to them the benefits & value of going. It made me heavily reflect about what I gained from the retreat and how it helped me to develop my own skills (some of the accomplishments are mentioned in my previous post). The method of talking to potential people as well really took me out of my comfort zone, which helped me develop my own skills. I'll be honest; I really don't like talking much on the phone and I tend to remain silent in person. However, I had to really break out of that prison I set on myself and thus allow myself to grow. I also got to use my normal methods to promote & recruit (i.e. Facebook), which was a lot of fun. I pushed as hard as I could on Facebook for people to fill registrations and gouge their interest. I'm not sure how many people I influenced, but I'm hoping that there was at least 1-2 participants I helped influence in coming.
The fundraising was another challenge that also really took me out of my comfort zone. I've never, ever, EVER done any sort of fundraising before. This whole process was a new learning experience for me. Thankfully, there was a lot of people who were willing to help me out once I presented to them how his retreat helped me out, what I hope to accomplish this year, and how their investment will develop the leaders of tomorrow. To all the people who helped: a major, major thank you! This retreat could not have happened without that help.

The rest of the challenges came closer towards the retreat, or at the retreat itself. One challenge that came about was one person who I had been talking to about the retreat having some unexpected obstacles popping up that could have potentially prevented them from coming. This allowed me to work on my first question/objective because I really, really, REALLY wanted that person to be able to make it. Alhamdulillah, that issue got resolved and the person was able to make it. I didn't do much (in my opinion); but I was able to connect with the right person to help get that issue resolved and with the generosity of people, the situation worked out.

Another challenge was the driving aspect. In my post last year, I mentioned how I had a huge fear of driving and that I hadn't driven lost distances myself. This year, I felt more comfortable driving. However, I tried to do something different this year; it was coordinating a trip to the retreat with another driver. We met at a location (JCC), and went from them with other driver leading the way and me following. Undoubtedly, this was another learning experience because I've never followed anybody when driving. And especially following somebody during rush hour; that itself was a challenge. Trying to keep up; trying to find out where they are (at times, they were far ahead lol). But thankfully after getting out the major traffic areas, it was a lot easier to follow and manage.

At the retreat itself, the challenges started right away. After getting to retreat and praying Salaatul Asr in Jamaat, the folks in my car and myself went to get our things from the car. And this is where another learning experience kicked. I always lock my doors when I exit the car and don't like to leave any windows open. When we got to the treat, we took out most of the stuff from the seats and thus I locked the door when we went to pray. When we came back, we only had to unload the trunk. So after we unloaded the trunk and closed it, we realized that there was still chips in the car. No biggie right? Just go and open the car? Here's where the problem and the learning experience REALLY kicks in. We couldn't find the key. We all checked our pockets, etc. but no luck. So we thought the worst: they keys were in the trunk, the doors are all locked, and I don't have a back up key. Fast forward to night time and when I go to take my pillow out of a bag, I see the key in there. I can't explain the relief I felt! And it made me learn that a) always bring a back up key; and b) always check to make sure I have the key before I close the trunk.

Another challenge was during Salaat. Alhamdulillah, I was given the opportunity to lead Salaat a few times. I also got to recite duas as well after the Salaat. The two biggest challenges for me were going over certain rules of Jamaat Salaat and also presenting briefly Salaatul Ghufayla. At MIC, Sh. Jaffer has been going over various rules of Jamaat Salaat which have been extremely beneficial. I thought that it would be an excellent idea to take the initiative he started and attempt it at the retreat; I credit the idea to him (and he also gave me his opinion on which rules to mention as well despite only a short time to review them when I asked him). I got some great feedback, alhamdulillah, and I know what I can improve on as well; and inshaAllah, I hope everybody took benefits out of it. I also brought handouts on how to pray Salaatul Ghufayla. Its helped me out in many ways, and I wanted to share its benefit with others. This is something else I learned from Sh. Jaffer in a one-on-one conversation and he also provided me with a handout. I hope everybody remembers to pray it regularly because its a Salaat where you ask for hajaat during the Qunoot in the Salaat. And please keep in your duas, inshaAllah. These two things helped me accomplish both the questions/objectives I had as I felt it would help others and would help me learn when presenting these types of benefits.

There was also the challenges during the activities & workshops. We had to go out of the comfort zone of our daily routine (lack of sleep; different meal times; etc.). We learned quite a few different things during the workshops (e.g. Jonah's complex; creating SMART goals and applying them on the Wheel of Life). We met new people (which was honestly really awesome...I'll explain in a bit why).
The biggest challenge for me was the object that described me. For myself, it was hard choosing something; but I decided to use the same thing as I did last year. This year, I also dug deeper within myself. I had to re-visit old memories, go through some painful timelines, and get myself in that same emotional mindset to really express myself.

The last challenges will be on-going again this year. Everybody has set their SMART goals and made their Wheels of Life. The smaller challenge is to complete and accomplish all those goals. I see this as a smaller challenge because we all dug deep inside and thought about what we really wanted to accomplish before established our SMART goals. The bigger challenge is creating a change. Why is this the bigger challenge? Similar to what I said last year; before we can expect change externally, we must make a change internally (i.e. in ourselves). I won't speak for anybody else at this point, but maybe hope to inspire/help others (as per my second question/objective). The only way change internally is by finding motivation - both internally (primarily) & externally (secondarily). As I mentioned last year as well, people who know know that I've changed and evolved over the past few years (even over the past year). Its hard not to stay stagnant; its always important to grow, and growing in a positive way is a challenge (which can help others by influence and also help me learn about my shortcomings and strengths). But I believe I can achieve this and build from last year. Externally, I have a great mentor and buddy who'll also challenge me. Internally, I have a strong feeling and firm faith in myself that I can accomplish this; and more importantly, I have complete yaqeen (certainty) in the Most Merciful (SWT) that he'll guide me through it all and help me accomplish my goals, especially the biggest one I continuously pray for.

Outside of all the challenges, it was another incredible experience. While last year we got a full moon over the body of water, this year it was a completely clear sky filled stars (during the night time). Honestly unbelievable; I was able to see the Big Dipper constellation! During the day time, it was gorgeous weather with the sun shining down, a peaceful wind, the body of water, and trees surrounding it. So incredibly peaceful (with no cell reception and no WiFi). It makes you realize how limitless the bounties of the Lord are.

I have a poem I wrote called "On the Edge of Insanity"; a person who I met mentioned how the following picture reminded them of the poem (where this tree that stands alone represents a person on the edge of insanity). The picture also represents the scenery from the retreat (and major credits/thanks for the person who took this and let me use the photo for my blog!):

The biggest lesson I learned this year is to have complete yaqeen (certainty) in the Almighty (SWT). When an intention is pure, somehow He'll help you out. Just like how I needed help throughout all these challenges and will still need help with the upcoming challenges, it can only happen with His will and help. As the saying goes: when there's a will, there's a way! So find that will, and you'll find your way! Meeting and networking with new people was great because I could similarities with other folks on things we like (e.g. poetry; speaking publicly; etc.) I also had some really wonderful conversations with people through out the camp, whether it was on the way to the camp fire or it was on the dock, and got to know some people a lot better; I hope they develop into really good friendships at the very least as all those folks are incredible and we could relate on a few different things. I was also happy I got to open up more, share some poetry, and most importantly, meet incredible folks who I hope (inshaAllah) will keep me in their duas.

I honestly hope that next year I'm able to go back in a similar role and develop myself further while helping others (Mashal - this part is for you; THANK YOU for inviting me again this year! Please remember me for next year's retreat, inshaAllah!)

One final note: I have to give another big shout out to my best friend again. Last year, I asked them to update my Facebook status for my 'Quote of the Day', which was done. This year, I found a different method to update but asked them to double-check and make sure it was updated. That's truly how a best friend should be; thanks ketchup buddy! And also a big shout out to my sister who lent me her camera since mine wasn't working. I was able to take some awesome pictures, which I'll upload soon hopefully!

YMAA Leadership Retreat 2013 (Part 1)

So after a nearly four-month hiatus, I'm back with a new post!
I've had a lot of things going on: community events; youth events; work; and personal things. I've kept busy and tried to have a bigger role in things I'm involved in. I attribute all of this to one event last year that helped me in an indescribable way (and don't know how much I could have accomplished had I not attended that event).

As folks may or may not know, I had the experience of a lifetime when I went to a leadership retreat held by the Young Muslim Athletic Association (YMAA) for four days. The leadership retreat challenged me in many ways: overcoming my fears; breaking routine; and looking inside myself deeply to understand my potential. I also wrote a blog on my experience, which can be found here:

http://mzs1347.blogspot.ca/2012/05/ymaa-leadership-retreat-2012.html

This year, I’ve been given the opportunity to go again in the role of an Angel. As an Angel; I will have many tasks; this includes recruiting participants (which has already been completed); help in organizing & running the retreat; promote/market the retreat; and most importantly...(wait for it)...(wait for it)....FUNDRAISING!

As an Angel, one of my biggest tasks is to help in fundraising towards our cost. To make the retreat affordable, participants were offered a subsidized cost of $200 to attend the retreat *actual cost $400). Due to this, we would fundraise to cover the remaining costs.

Now a potential donor (like yourself!) must be wondering, “What benefit do I get out of this?” There are multiple benefits! Below are the three that I think would be the most applicable:

• Financial benefit: a donor is entitled to a tax receipt for this!
• Low cost of investment, high reward: at a low cost, a donor would be helping to develop the leaders of tomorrow – leaders in the community, at work, at school, and life in general!
• Investing in me!: the donor will be helping me in multiple ways; not only financially, but helping me develop my skills further by being able to go to this retreat in the role of an Angel!

 After last year’s retreat, I was able to accomplish quite a few things:

• I remained an active member on the Masumeen Youth Committee (a religious youth committee in Brampton)
• I gave a couple of insightful speeches at the Masumeen Islamic Centre (located in Brampton)
• I wrote an article for a magazine called Jaffari News
•  I remained a part of “The Voice” team at work (where our team looks to overcome challenges face by our co-workers in our department)
• I helped launch the “Stand4Hussain” hot chocolate event (where free hot chocolate was handed out in downtown Toronto) & even got interviewed by OMNI News!

So what do I hope to develop this year? Three main things:

• Locus of control: I want to develop a higher internal locus of control, where I hold myself and my actions responsible for the outcomes. It’s easy to blame outside factors for any shortcomings. It’s much harder to look deep into yourself, understand what your weaknesses are, and find ways to work on them and improve yourself. I want to improve and develop my weaknesses while building on strengths to overcome my shortcomings
• Mentoring: As an angel, I will have the opportunity to mentor participants this year. This is a valuable skill that can help me in many situations – at work with my colleagues (and even in a supervisor position); with my friends & family; and in the community where I volunteer.
• Building networks: Networking is a key aspect in many aspects of life. Overall, I hope to build more networks so that I can have more opportunities in the future to continuously develop my skills.

With the assistance/donations, I know I accomplish all three of these goals and be a leader within the various facets of my life!

We are also looking for small businesses to help in sponsoring the event (and in turn, YMAA would help to advertise for the business). The deadline for a small business to sponsor is rapidly approaching (this upcoming Friday, April 19th 2013).

If you are interested (either as a personal donor or as a small business sponsor), please email me at m.z.salehmohamed@gmail.com as soon as possible! Attached is also a picture of the various packages for business sponsorships. Thanks folks!

The Sorrow of Karbala: The Three Rs

I was hoping to have done this in speech format but due to time constraints, wasn't able to. It also took me a while to write this (longer than other blogs/speeches/etc. I've written). I was also hoping to have this done at the beginning of Muharram, but due to time constraints again I wasn't able to do it then. It seems to have worked out better as I've completed it right after Arba'een. Please let me know your thoughts!

 The Sorrow of Karbala: The Three Rs

Throughout the Islamic year, there are many opportunities that are available for us where we can have a spiritual recharge & revitalization. Some examples would be during the Fatimiyyah program; the months of Rajab & Shaban, which then lead to Shahru Ramadhan; and the time of Hajj. Another opportunity that is given to us are the months Muharram and Safar; the months in which we commemorate the Sorrow of Karbala and what took place after. These months of mourning give us the perfect opportunity because the tears we shed, if they are shed sincerely, soften our heart and help bring about a change within us spiritually. As human beings, none of us are perfect; there is always room to improve. More importantly, there is also room to get closer to Allah (SWT). Bringing about a change is not easy within us; it takes time and has to be done in steps. But if we are truly sincere about making a change, then it can happen inshaAllah.As it says in the Holy Quran, “Surely Allah (SWT) does not change the condition of a people until they change their own condition.” (Surah ar-Ra’ad; 13:11)
These steps can be summarized in three Rs: revolution; resolution; and reformation.

The first step is that of ‘revolution’. This is the stage where you realize that a change is required, and has two other Rs that go with it: reflection and realization. During reflection, you contemplate on different aspects of your life: your akhlaq; what angers you; your spiritual level; etc. This is crucial because without reflecting, you won’t be able to realize what and where you can improve. Reflection requires silence and thinking to be truly successful.
Rasoolullah (SAW) says, “A moment's reflection and pondering over is better than one year's worship.”
After carefully and deeply reflecting, you come to the point of realization. At this point, you understand that there is a need for change within yourself. You realize that there is improvement required in certain areas; that there is room to grow spiritually and as a human; and that you can get closer to Allah (SWT). As human beings, we need to constantly grow & involve so that we don’t become stagnant; and the only way that is possible is by constantly evaluating ourselves through reflection in order to come to that realization. After reflecting & realizing, a revolution can then begin within us.

After understanding that a ‘revolution’ is required within us, the next step is ‘resolution’.  In the Common Era (CE), it’s a tradition that people make New Year’s resolutions where they look to make commitments in order to accomplish personal goals or reform certain habits. It goes along with a theme, ‘a new year, a new beginning’. Examples of New Year’s resolutions are losing weight, improving finances, or improving education by going back to school. However, a lot of these resolutions tend to fail. There are numerous potential reasons as to why. One reason could be the intention and its sincerity. Another reason could be a weak will, drive, & determination. But the biggest reason could be that most of these resolutions aren’t done on a spiritual level to get closer to Allah (SWT). The concept of a New Year’s resolution is a great way to reform ourselves. We always require a spiritual recharge; and one of the best opportunities to recharge is when our hearts are soft while we mourn. The beginning of new Islamic year provides the opportunity perfectly with the months of Muharram and Safar for us to make New Year’s resolutions. But the biggest difference would be that these resolutions would be made on a spiritual level for the sake of Allah (SWT) in order to closer to Him.
As it says in the Holy Quran, “Say: Surely my prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are (all) for Allah (SWT), the Lord of the worlds.” (Surah al-An’aam; 6:162)
One general resolution we should have and keep is to always do every act for Allah (SWT); when we also keep that in mind, then we can also think twice before we commit any acts to ensure that it will have Allah’s (SWT) pleasure in it. It’s also important to understand that we don’t need to make a complete turnaround in every aspect of our lives right away; this would likely be impossible and result in failure. Instead, take a step-by-step approach. Understand your priorities first and which changes you feel are most important; then start making the resolutions on what changes you want to make based on your priorities.

The third, final, and most important step is ‘reformation’. This is where the plan is put into action. The Pareto principle (i.e. 80-20 rule) can apply in this. In most cases, planning takes up 80% and action takes up 20%. However, the opposite would happen in this case; 20% goes to planning (i.e. revolution & resolution) and 80% goes to action (i.e. reformation). This is because reformation will be a long-term, continuing process as there will always be room to improve. More importantly, there will always be room to get closer to Allah (SWT). How to get closer to Him? By constant remembrance of Him to try and understand & appreciate Him. How to reform? By also constantly remembering Him and understanding what will please Him.
Amir ul-Momineen (AS) says, “The root of reforming the heart is in occupying it with the remembrance of Allah (SWT).”
And by constantly remembering Him, we can constantly reform ourselves as we always remain careful in our actions & intentions. Thus we constantly grow and prevent ourselves from becoming stagnant.

To conclude, these three Rs are a very basic approach and by no means is the only way. There are many small steps that happen in between. However, it gives us all a starting point towards making changes within ourselves so that we can closer to Allah (SWT). Rather than focusing on resolutions that will only benefit us in this world, we need to shift the focus and make resolutions that will help us spiritually and benefit us in the next world. And ultimately, what benefits us in the next world is what pleases Allah (SWT).
Imam Hussain (AS) says, “He who has You has everything; and he who has deprived himself of You is the poorest in the world. Loser is the one who chooses and be content with anyone or anything other than You.”
And especially for the youths who are going through high school and university, plant it in yourselves from now that this materialistic world will be of no benefit to you; only the pleasure of Allah (SWT) will benefit you in any & every aspect of your life. You’re at an age where it is easy to reform and make changes.
As Imam Ali (AS) says, “Surely the heart of the youth is like the uncultivated ground – it will accept whatever you throw upon it (and that is what will grow from it).”
I’d like to end with one last hadith that summarizes these three Rs along with why Imam Hussain (AS) took the stance he did: “I never revolted in vain, as a rebel or as a tyrant, but I rose seeking reformation for the nation of my grandfather Muhammad (SAW). I intend to enjoin good and forbid evil, to act according to the traditions of my grandfather, and my father Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS).”
The sacrifice of Aba Abdillah (AS) should not just be concluded in 12 days during Muharram or a few days for Ashra-e-Zainabiyya during Safar; it should live on in each and every day of our lives to help us reform in preparation of the Awaited Saviour, Hujjatul-Qaim (AJTF). Aba Abdillah’s (AS) message was a universal one that could (and should) be applied to any & every time period and to any & every person. And inshaAllah we followers & lovers of the Ahlul Bayt (AS) utilized this opportunity to start a revolution within us, make resolutions to improve ourselves spiritually, and have committed ourselves to reforming ourselves.

Hat Trick of Eid Celebrations

I've been wanting to do this blog for a while. However with a lot of other things taking my time (and priority), this is the first opportunity I've had. I'll be talking about three Eids in this one and try to stick with the point.

Eid-ul-Adha

"Adorn the two festivals with frequent chants of La Ilaha IllAllah (There is no god but Allah), Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest), Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah), and with glorification of Allah."

 - Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

This Eid is celebrated after the Hajj pilgrimage is performed and is considered the greater Eid (in comparison to Eid-ul-Fitr). This Eid is to commemorate the sacrifice that Abraham was willing to make when he was going to sacrifice his son (God accepted the intention of the sacrifice; and thus a sheep or goat took the place of his son). Every year, Muslims from every sect and every part of the world travel to perform this journey; all as equals in front of the Almighty (SWT).

This Eid kind of reminds me of Thanksgiving in the sense that it helps us to appreciate things around us a lot more. During the Hajj journey, you are in the most humble state and an equal with everybody. While I haven't been for Hajj, I've heard many stories behind it. And it often makes such a change in people that nobody every returns the same way they want. It also reminds me of Thanksgiving because of the unity factor (as in our secular society, people of different faiths celebrate Thanksgiving). During Hajj, everybody is an equal: rich & poor; black, white, & brown; short & tall; Sunni & Shia. The only that one distinguish one person from another would be the purity of one's heart and intention.

The sacrifice of this Eid also reminds how close Muharram is, and how the greatest sacrifice was given in order to save Islam. The sacrifice that I speak of is Aba Abdillah, Imam Hussain (AS) and his family/companions on the plains of Karbala (as well the events that took place after). I'm saving that blog for another day. But the main reason it reminds me of this is the 360 turn that takes in a month. One month, we celebrate a sacrifice that was made where Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son, and it was accepted without having to sacrifice his son. And yet in the next, we mourn the greatest sacrifice ever made where even Aba Abdillah's (AS) 6-month old baby was also not spared, receiving a three-pong arrow (used to kills camels) to his throat when all Aba Abdillah (AS) did was ask water for the child.


Eid-e-Ghadeer

"Of whomsoever I had been Master (Mawla), Ali here is to be his Master. O Allah, be a supporter of whoever supports him (Ali) and an enemy of whoever opposes him and divert the Haq (right) to Ali."
- Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

This was the day where Prophet Muhammad (SAW) declared Amir ul-Momineen, Imam Ali ibne Abi Talib (AS) as his successor. This was done after the Prophet's (SAW) final Hajj at Ghadeer-e-Khumm. On this day, our faith was completed. These were crystal clear words from the Prophet (SAW), and yet people still deny who the rightful successor after the Prophet (SAW) really was. It astonishes me how people can deny the right of Imam Ali (AS) after all the times the Prophet (SAW) declared Imam Ali (AS) as his successor.

And yet when his right was denied, Imam Ali (AS) also sacrificed his right for the betterment and unity of the Muslim Ummah. The amount of patience that Amir ul-Momineen (AS) showed during this time was simply incredible. And he did this with complete akhlaq (the practice of virtue, manners, & morality).

What astonishes me here is that people who claim to love the Prophet (SAW), Imam Ali (AS), and the Ahlul Bayt (AS) can't even follow the same akhlaq and steps that the Masumeen (AS) lived their lives by. Their ignorance has unfortunately further cause a divide in the religion when unity is crucially needed. Some have even gone as far as to insults some of the respect of the religion, those who have sent their whole lives dedicated to serving the religion and studying is laws to be applied in all aspects of our lives. Its really sad to see some people not understand certain concepts properly in the religion.
And by this, I don't mean you don't compromise or sacrifice your beliefs. That's not what unity is. You should still practice it, and TEACH others about why you do certain things. Will people get offended and insult you? Of course. But remember that you attract more flies with honey.
And also remember the story of the Prophet (SAW) and the lady who used to throw garbage on his head every day; the day when she didn't drop anything, he went and check on her to see if she was okay. This is the ESSENCE and AKHLAQ of the Ahlul Bayt (AS).


Eid-e-Mubahila

"And whoever argues with you in this matter after what has come to you of knowledge, then say, 'Come, let us call our sons and your sons and our women and your women and ourselves and yourselves, then let us humbly pray to our Lord and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars" - Surah Ale-Imran (3:61)

"O Allah, these are the people of my Household (Ahlul Bayt). They are my confidants and my supporters. Their flesh is my flesh and their blood is my blood. Whoever hurts them, hurts me too. Whoever displeases them, displeased me too. I am at war with those at war with them. I am at peace with those at peace with them. I am the enemy of their enemies, and I am the friend of their friends. They are from me and I am from them."
- Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

Eid-e-Mubahila is really special to me for multiple reasons. The first reason is because I gave a speech when I was younger (I can't remember what age). I'll see if I can possibly even dig that out from somewhere. The second reason being is that this is the last Khushali (Happy Occasion) of the Islamic year.

The third reason is based on the event itself (Google it if you want to know the background). This event basically shows importance of the Ahle Kisaa (AS):

• Sons = Imam Hassan (AS) and Imam Hussain (AS)
• Women = Bibi Fatimah (AS)
• Ourselves = Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Ali (AS)

This shows the trust and love the Prophet (SAW) has for these four. Who would be willing to only bring four individuals to this historical event, and that too who are the closest to them? This event single-handedly shows the importance of the Ahle Kisaa (AS). How people still deny what was clearly there is mind-boggling.

The final reason (that comes to mind) on why this Eid is really special is because of the historical events that are commemorated after. As the Islamic year ends on a fairly happy note with this celebration, the beginning of the Islamic year starts off mourning Aba Abdillah (AS) and the tragedy of Karbala. And this ties back to both Eid-ul-Adha and Eid-e-Ghadeer. It ties back to Eid-ul-Adha again because of the greatest sacrifice made and the 360 change of celebrating the acceptance of a sacrifice to the mourning of the greatest sacrifice. And it ties back to Eid-e-Ghadeer because the army (L/A) that fought against the grandson of the Prophet (SAW) were seeking revenge for the valiance of Imam Ali (AS) in the battles that were faced and where he would defend the Prophet (SAW) and Islam against the fathers of the people in the army who were looking to destroy the religion. Some even had the audacity to think they were on the correct path. If only they had paid attention to Eid-e-Mubahila and took the route that Janab-e-Hurr (AS), where he switched sides & came on the right path by defending Aba Abdillah (AS).

So that wraps up the three Eids. In just a couple of nights, Muharram will begin.
InshaAllah I'll attempt to do a blog within the first few nights related to it as well.

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Reflections from Nahjul Balagha

During Shahru Ramadhan, I was given another blessed opportunity of giving a speech on lessons from Nahjul Balagha (Peak of Eloquence) on Monday August 13th, 2012 (I have an earlier blog post about the first speech I gave).
For anybody wondering, Nahjul Balagha is a book that was compiled by Sayyed Sharif Razi on the sermons, letters, and sayings of Amir ul-Momineen, Imam Ali ibne Abi Talib (AS). This speech was a year in the making as I was suppose to deliver it last year, but was unable to. Thankfully though, it allowed me to make adjustments to it before I delivered it this year.
I've attached both the video and the transcript; I hope people can take something away from it. The transcript may vary slightly, but overall the same speech & same ideas. I also used some hadiths, which are highlighted in red. Please leave some feedback if you can!

Reflections from Nahjul Balagha

Bismillāhir-rahmānir-rahīm.

Sheikh Jaffer; my respected scholars and elders; and my dear brothers & sisters; Salaamun Alaikum. My name is Mohammad Zahid. I want to thank the Masumeen Management Committee and the Masumeen Youth Committee for giving me this opportunity.

As Shia Ithna-Asheris, we all feel a special bond to Amir ul-Momineen (AS). Whether it’s related to being the successor of Rasoolullah (SAW), or his vital roles throughout the various battles in Islam, we all tend to feel a connection to him one way or another. Especially for the youth, there is a special connection; as we all know, there is a saying that goes, “there is no youth like Ali and no sword like Dhulfiqar.”

 One thing that helped me to feel a special bond to Imam Ali (AS) was reading Nahjul Balagha. Alhamdulillah, I was able to finish Nahjul Balagha for the first time last year during Shahru Ramadhan. The more I read Nahjul Balagha, the more I was amazed at the knowledge and words from Imam Ali (AS). It also helped me to face various situations in my life with two important aspects that never left Imam Ali’s (AS) side throughout his life: faith and patience. Tonight, I wanted to share three important lessons from Nahjul Balagha.

The first lesson is to abstain from worldly pleasures & desires. Imam Ali (AS) has said “She world is like a serpent, so soft to touch, but so full of lethal poison. Unwise people are allured by it and drawn towards it, and wise men avoid it and keep away from its poisonous effects.”

 Throughout Nahjul Balagha, Imam Ali (AS) has mentioned this in two aspects. The first aspect is to abstain from sins and vices that seem pleasurable to us, but are more harmful than we can imagine. These vices will not only hurt us in this world by taking away our blessings, but in the hereafter as well through punishment. 

The second aspect is regarding people who are in constant chase of wealth. Imam Ali (AS) has mentioned that those who are in constant chase of wealth suffer in this world as they are in constant anguish to gain & guard their wealth. And with their focus on their wealth, they waste the opportunity to do good deeds, such as giving charity, which then hurts them in the hereafter.  Imam Ali (AS) also mentions that this wealth is of no use because it cannot accompany a person when their journey in this world ends; the real wealth is in doing good deeds & in increasing your knowledge as these factors will help you in both this world and in the next.

 It is also important to remember that you don’t have to completely abstain from everything as long as it is halal and done in moderation. One of the beautiful qualities of Islam is that it is a religion of moderation and that Allah (SWT) has provided so many bounties in this world for us. And the reason for that is so that we can get closer to him by increasing our faith in Him and thanking Him for these bounties.

 The second lesson is to live a pious life. Imam Ali (AS) has said “Those are the fortunate people who adopt piety as the principle of their lives and are fully attentive to their welfare for the Hereafter.” There are many sermons throughout Nahjul Balagha about how to live a pious life.

 The first step again is to abstain from worldly pleasures & desires. This would help us to stay away from vices & sins, and help us to live a simpler life. Imam Ali (AS) lived a very simple & humble life, eating only two pieces of bread a day and making his living conditions like that of the poorest person under his caliphate.

 The next step would be to do good deeds. This helps to keep our soul clean but more importantly, helps us in the hereafter with rewards that await us.

 The final step is to keep faith in Allah and remain patient throughout whatever happens. Imam Ali (AS) is one of the best examples of this through all the obstacles he faced, from his rights being usurped to having to bury both the Holy Prophet (SAW) and the love of his life, Bibi Fatimah (AS).

 Living a pious life is a crucial element as it helps us to remain humble and not inflate our own egos. It helps us to remember that we are nothing in comparison to Allah (SWT) and that every bounty has been provided by him. To obtain closeness to Him, not only do we need to be thankful but also perform good deeds. That in itself is a bounty for us because without those opportunities to do good deeds, we would not have the opportunity to prepare for the hereafter.

When Allah (SWT) provides us with bounties, He also tests us with challenges. This shows that there is moderation in our lives as well in general as we go through both rough and smooth periods in life. During the smooth phases, we have the chance to increase our faith by being thankful to Him. And during the rough phases, we have the chance to increase our faith by being patient and remembering that Allah (SWT) will help us through it.

 The third and probably most important lesson from Nahjul Balagha is to be ready for death and prepare for the hereafter. Imam Ali (AS) says, “Blessed is the man who always kept the life after death in his view, who remembered the Day of Judgment through all his deeds, who led a contented life and who was happy with the lot that Allah (SWT) had destined for him.”

 Imam Ali (AS) mentions that death can come unexpectedly at any time, whether we want to it to or not. Therefore we must prepare for death, because after death will come the hereafter. And the result of the hereafter will be dependent on our actions, deeds, and faith in Allah (SWT).

The two best ways to prepare for death and the hereafter are again by abstaining from worldly pleasures & desires, and to live a pious life.

 In this short journey of life, we must do as many good deeds as we can, like helping one another or giving charity. Especially in Ramadhan, there is an opportunity to give charity all around us. Other good deeds would be to help one another out; it can be as simple as giving a ride to somebody to the Masjid who isn’t able to come on their own. And when we do these good deeds, it helps to build our rewards in the hereafter. After all as Imam Ali (AS) states, the life in this world is a temporary journey. Our real destinations are in the hereafter and to reach Jannat.

In closing, there are many lessons than we can take away from Nahjul Balagha. To my fellow youth, I urge you all to take sometime and read Nahjul Balagha, even if its only a few pages everyday. The depth of knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (AS) and his words in Nahjul Balagha are simply incredible. Throughout the sermons, letters, and sayings, it can be seen that Imam Ali (AS) has been through every situation that we all face in our lives, and he’s been able to always deal with them with patience and faith in Allah (SWT).

 Often in our lives, we get very discouraged when challenges come up and don’t know who to turn to for advice. And while this is not the only solution, reading Nahjul Balagha is an extremely helpful one. The amount of hardships that Amir ul-Momineen (AS) has been through makes the trials and tribulations we face very small. Yet, we can find a solution for our problems by reading his words as well as following the two things that he never abandoned: patience and faith.

Imam Ali (AS) says, "Overcome your sorrows, your worries and your misfortunes with patience and faith in the Merciful Lord and your hard work; one who gives up a straight path, honest and rational ways of thinking and working, will harm himself."

 I’d like to end with Imam Ali’s (AS) famous quote, “Live amongst people in such a manner that if you die they weep over you and if you are alive they crave for your company.” Thank you all once again. Wasalaam.