If, like me, the videos of the resilient Palestinians of Gaza stirred something deep within you, know it's a divine wake up call. A veil has been lifted, revealing the unwavering faith and steadfastness they exhibited—a truly admirable quality.
It prompted introspection: What can I do to cultivate such unwavering certainty? Frankly, I question whether I would have responded with the same resilience in the face of such trials, and if i’m being honest, the answer would have been no, I wouldn't have been able to respond in such a way they did.
There are moments that shake you - like the time I spoke to my uncle in Gaza, and he soothingly reassured me not to worry, reminding me that Allah is the best of planners, or when I witnessed videos capturing the immediate reactions of Palestinians to the loss of their loved ones. Hearing sentiments like, "Ya Allah, if I had more children, I would give them all again to you," or witnessing a parent saying, "Ya Allah, I named my son Ayuub for patience," left me contemplating the incredible strength these Palestinians displayed. I'm left wondering, how?
How do they find such resilience in the face of such adversity?
What sets these Palestinians apart in the eyes of Allah, and how can we strive to reach similar spiritual ranks?
It's a moment for sincere self-reflection, assessing our current standing on the journey to Allah.
To cultivate unwavering certainty and resilience, we must begin by fortifying our faith and connection with Allah. This involves deepening our understanding of our Rabb, our obligations, reconnecting with the words of Allah and re-evaluating our life's priorities.
"New Life" Resolutions, with our Gaza Lens on:
As we approach the new year, I invite you to formulate "New Life" resolutions this year through our Gaza lens. Let's align our goals with the enduring values exemplified by those facing adversity with unwavering faith. Life should not be the same after the events of October 7th; it should be a catalyst for positive change.
With our new lenses on, let's reflect on key aspects:
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Gratitude: What aspects of our lives are we grateful for? In the face of challenges, are we able to appreciate the little blessings we have? Has Gaza prompted us to develop a deeper sense of gratitude for the basic aspects of our lives?
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Minimalism - Taming our Nafs: How do we navigate the desires of our nafs? Are we capable of finding contentment in simplicity, resisting the urge to fulfill every desire? Can we draw inspiration from the people of Gaza, who have exemplified the essence of survival with the bare minimum?
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Akhirah Preparedness: In considering the hereafter, what steps have we taken to prepare? Are our actions and priorities aligned with deeds that will yield lasting benefits beyond this transient world? How can the awareness of Gaza's challenges guide us in focusing on the eternal aspects of our existence?
Action items:
- Reflect on your current life priorities. Jot them down below to gain insight into what matters most to you.
- Reassess your priorities with the Gaza Lens. From the priorities you've listed, identify what adjustments can be made to align them with pleasing your Rabb.
- Identify one positive change you can make, whether it involves removing or adding something, in your life that will please Allah (SWT)
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us that:
عَنْ أَبِي قَتَادَةَ عَنْ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ إِنَّكَ لَنْ تَدَعَ شَيْئًا لِلَّهِ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ إِلَّا بَدَّلَكَ اللَّهُ بِهِ مَا هُوَ خَيْرٌ لَكَ مِنْهُ
"Verily, you will never leave anything for the sake of Allah Almighty but that Allah will replace it with something better."
The journey through the Gaza lens is transformative. It challenges us to grow spiritually, reassess our priorities, and embrace gratitude and simplicity, urging us to move forward with purpose and trust in Allah's divine plan. As we step into the new year, may our resolutions reflect the enduring values witnessed in the resilience of Gaza—a beacon of hope and strength in the face of adversity.
Praying you have a journey full of growth, resilience, and spiritual elevation, insha'Allah.
Strive for new heights,
The Elevated Muslimah Life Coach
Certified Life Coach
Certified CBT Coach Practitioner
