In these trying times, when my faith in humanity is languishing, I have to remind myself that all this suffering can’t be for nothing. There must be lessons we need to learn, there must be signs that are trying to tell us to change our ways, or perhaps even an enlightenment making us aware that all is not well everywhere so that we are more grateful for our own life. I hope….sometimes that is all we have.

I believe that God doesn’t impose a greater burden than we can stand.

“Allah does not impose upon any soul a duty but to the extent of its ability.” [Quran 2:286]

All my troubles, past mistakes and hardships have refined me over and over again, like sandpaper used to smooth out a piece of wood, to buff out all my rough edges.

Often times, out of despair, I looked up to the Heavens and asked “why, oh why, why me?” All this time, I have realized God was setting me up for great things. Purifying my soul all this time of all the things that were not good enough. I was flung into a deep hole, falling deeper it seemed into an endless pit, until I only had one choice, going up. I believe it was all by design, by the greatest of all planners, God. I often think of it in terms of using a bow and arrow, you have to pull all the way back to be able to get a great distance with your shot.

The climb continues, the trials and the reminders are frequent, and I thank God for it all.

For anyone who can relate, try your best to be thankful for the good and bad and remain patient. In the meantime, search your soul, don’t leave a stone unturned, find the lessons you need to learn and move on to a better version of yourself. Remember, the darkest hour is just before the dawn of a new day.

“It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.” (Aristotle Onassis)

Stay blessed.

Peace be upon you, iA.