Self love

11

Chapter 11
As the wedding day drew nearer, Amina found herself immersed in a whirlwind of preparations. Despite the busy schedule, she remained committed to her daily prayers and found solace in her faith. Each prayer was a moment of reflection and gratitude, grounding her amidst the excitement and chaos.  

One morning, after Fajr prayer, Amina sat quietly in her living room, reflecting on the journey that had brought her to this point. The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a peaceful glow on her surroundings. Her heart felt full, not just with the love she had found with Zayd, but with the self-love and confidence she had cultivated over time.

Later that day, Amina and Zayd visited a local orphanage where they had volunteered to help organize a community event. The children greeted them with wide smiles and infectious energy, and Amina felt a deep sense of fulfillment as they spent the day playing games, sharing stories, and distributing gifts.

As the event came to a close, Amina noticed a little girl sitting alone under a tree, clutching a worn-out teddy bear. She walked over and knelt beside her. "Salaam, what's your name?" Amina asked gently.

The girl looked up with wide, curious eyes. "Aisha," she replied softly.

"That's a beautiful name, Aisha. Do you want to join us for some games?" Amina asked, smiling warmly.

Aisha shook her head. "I like it here. It's quiet."

Amina sat down beside her, respecting her need for solitude. "I understand. Sometimes, it's nice to have a quiet place to think."

Aisha looked at Amina, her eyes reflecting a depth of emotion. "Do you think my parents miss me?"

Amina's heart ached at the question. "I'm sure they do, Aisha. You're a very special girl, and anyone who knows you would miss you very much."

Aisha hugged her teddy bear tighter. "Thank you," she whispered.

As Amina sat with Aisha, she felt a profound connection with the little girl. She saw a part of her younger self in Aisha, the part that had longed for love and reassurance. It was a reminder of how far she had come and the importance of giving back.

Later, as they were leaving the orphanage, Zayd noticed the thoughtful look on Amina's face. "Are you okay?" he asked.

Amina nodded, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Yes, I am. Today reminded me of how important it is to love and support one another, especially those who need it the most."

Zayd nodded. "You have a big heart, Amina. It's one of the many things I love about you."

As they drove home, Amina's mind kept returning to Aisha. She resolved to visit the orphanage more often and to find ways to support the children there. It was a new beginning, not just for her, but for the connections she hoped to build within her community.

That evening, Amina and Zayd decided to spend some quiet time together. They sat on her apartment balcony, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the view of the city lights. Her father Ibrahim was downstairs. As they sipped on tea, Zayd spoke up.

"Amina, I've been thinking a lot about our future. After the wedding, I want us to continue growing together, not just as a couple, but as individuals who contribute to the world around us."

Amina looked at him, her heart swelling with love. "I feel the same way, Zayd. I want us to be a force for good, to help others find the same sense of purpose and love that we've found."

Zayd smiled. "We make a great team, don't we?"

Amina nodded, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. "Yes, we do."

As they continued talking, their conversation shifted to their wedding. In accordance with their faith, the ceremony would be simple yet profound. They discussed the Nikah ceremony, which would take place at the mosque, with their parents present to witness the union.

The next few days were a blur of activity as they finalized the last details of the wedding. Amina found herself both excited and nervous, but she knew that with Zayd by her side, everything would fall into place.

On the day before the wedding, Amina's father called her with a special request. "Amina, I'd like to host a small family gathering at our home tonight. It's a tradition that your mother and I had hoped to pass on to you."

Amina felt a wave of emotion. "I'd love that, Dad. We'll be there."

That evening, Amina and Zayd arrived at her father's house together with Zayd's friend Faisal and his sister Jamila. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and nostalgia as family members gathered to celebrate the upcoming union. Her father had prepared a special meal, and they spent the evening sharing stories and reminiscing about the past.

Amina's friend, Fatima, was there too, and they spent time catching up. "Amina, I'm so happy for you," Fatima said, her eyes shining with excitement. "You deserve all the happiness in the world."

Amina hugged her friend. "Thank you, Fatima. You've always been there for me."

As the night drew to a close, her father spoke to the family. "Amina, you have grown into an incredible woman. Your mother would be so proud of you. As you embark on this new journey, know that you carry her love and wisdom with you."

Amina felt tears welling up in her eyes. "Thank you, Dad. Your support means the world to me."

After the gathering, Amina and Zayd took a moment to pray together, thanking Allah for the blessings they had received and seeking guidance for their future. The act of praying together brought them a sense of unity and peace, reinforcing their commitment to each other and their faith.

As they prepared to leave, her father pulled Zayd aside. "Take care of my daughter, Zayd. She means everything to me."

Zayd nodded. "I promise, sir. I will always cherish and protect her."

The next morning, the day of the wedding dawned bright and clear. Amina felt a mixture of excitement and calm as she got ready. Her dress was a beautiful blend of tradition and modern elegance, reflecting her personal style and cultural heritage.

The Nikah ceremony took place at the mosque, where Zayd, his parents, Amina's father, and close family friends gathered. Amina stayed back home, as was customary, while the men performed the necessary rites.

Zayd's mother, Umm Zayd, was particularly warm and welcoming. "Amina is like a daughter to me already," she said to Amina's father. "I see so much goodness in her."

Amina's father smiled. "She's a good girl. I'm glad she has found someone who appreciates her."

During the gathering, Zayd's background came into conversation. Zayd was an Ebira man by tribe, born and brought up in Kaduna State. He had studied abroad and lived most of his life there, which had given him a unique perspective on life and a deep appreciation for his roots and culture.

After the ceremony, Zayd came to Amina's home to bring her to their new life together. They signed the marriage contract, and Amina felt a wave of emotions as she looked into Zayd's eyes, knowing they were now husband and wife.

Amina wished she had siblings to share this moment with, but she felt a deep sense of community with her extended family and friends. Fatima was there, beaming with joy, and Amina knew that she was not alone.

As they left her father's house to start their new life, Amina felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She knew that their journey was just beginning, but with Zayd by her side, she felt ready to face whatever the future held.