Inspirations

We Got This

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un”. (To Allah we belong and to Him is the final return)

Those were the words I heard (this date), five years ago. 

Growing up in Kentucky since I was about seven, with two other brothers; one being six, and the other being about the age of three. 

You see, the picture on the left before you softens my heart. The fact that the picture was of the summer before his departure. I didn’t realize how close our bond was from the beginning of time – it was as if our souls were almost identical; we loved many different aspects of life the same way, pursued similar goals and even at times, dressed alike (as you can see.) There was a point in our life as we were growing up, that many people would stop one of us and asked if we were “twins” – not only other students/peers but it became a common phenomenon amongst uncles and aunts as well. Of course at first, it would irritate us but over time we grew into liking that part about people’s assumptions – heck, we would even play along with them and say, “yes of course we are, but can you guess which one is the eldest?!” As life went in motion, so did we; from promising each other one thing after another, to setting goals for each other. We’d support each other to an extent that there were no jealousy or pride in sight. I remember a time where I’d be extremely sad or disappointed and he’d always be there to pitch in some advice, joke or smile – same happened vice-versa. As the very last days of his life went by, September 10th, 1994, is a day to remember his coming on this planet; of course, October 19th, 2009, his departure. Every year two events bring back waves of memories and then the tsunami rises only for a minute, to wash away all the pain and burdens because only then I realize my Brother is better off in a state where he was saved from his future sins and rescued by young age. This week, this month, and next month: that’s when your life started and ended, and mine only began. Insha’Allah, one day I’ll meet you once again with open arms, little brother. You now have three brother’s waiting to meet you, and a Mother and Father whom never stopped making du’a for you since the day you were born. The hour glass is slowly running out, and we are continuing to climb higher.

(The link to the story of his death is here:https://www.facebook.com/notes/242815719102207/ )

The picture on the right:

Where do I begin? This baby has been a core part of our family's life for the entire year. It's hard to believe that we were blessed with the most hyperactive and smiley baby, ever (Masha'Allah). I definitely did not expect to have another little baby brother, but here we are; one year and counting (Insha'Allah). I truly feel like Allah has a way with blessings. Once, one brother left this dunya(world), a new one appeared, only days before the others birthday as well. What makes everything so beautiful is the fact that my family hasn't been as happy and lovely as it been now the past four years. I remember a time where my Mom would just be looking at my other Brother's (Waseeq) old photographs in solitude, and at times (many times) letting her tears flow like a river to the sea. You see, my Mom tried really hard keeping her health intact, but it was easy to tell that she was never the same as she once was; from sorrow smiles to being extremely sensitive, to making sure every ounce of her dua's were going towards Waseeq - she still does this, of course. A special day came once Muhammad was born - it was as if time went in reverse. I saw the young Mom I used to remember slowly being revived again. I saw my family come together even stronger. I finally saw, genuine smiles across each of our faces and joyful laughter. It's as if Allah brought a priceless and innocent soul amongst us only to lift us back up from all of our troubles and challenges in life. He gave us a very rare gem to steadily cut into perfection a day at a time. He gave us Muhammad Abdur-Rahman. This has taught my family, "Verily every hardship comes ease." (Verse 94:5). You or your family may be going through the toughest time with something, but please believe me when I say, if you continue to stay strong and on the right path, you will always get something better. He does not ignore your cries and dua's every single day.

My last words for all of you: Try to smile as much as you can - you’re much stronger and much more beautiful than you think you are - and continue to become a better Muslim. We’re all in this together. Insha’Allah, let’s all keep each other in our dua’s. We got thissssssss! -Muqeet Shahid