Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Reflection

The experience of two complete strangers, perhaps of varying colors and cultural backgrounds, forming an immediate bond with the exchange of a smile, a slight head nod of acknowledgment and an ‘assalamualaikum,’ (greeting of peace) is truly amongst those incredibly heart uplifting feelings that Allah swt has blessed us with.

How very often do I find myself walking the streets of New York city, head down, trying hard to turn away from the filth on the buildings and walls (the ads), on the streets and that which leaves the mouth of those who walk them (smoke, curses etc). It is at times such as these that I sometimes look up and spot a head with a hijab and there forms on my face an inevitable smile, of joy and perhaps hope. We get closer, our smiles now exposed, nod that slight nod of acknowledgment and exchange a greeting of peace. Within a moment our hearts connect and then part. We pass each other by but the smile retains its place in my heart. I am left reflecting on the blessings that Allah swt has bestowed upon us, including the ability he has given us to behold and appreciate beauty—the beauty of human connection. I now walk the very same filth-laden streets of New York city with a smile on my face, emanating from deep within.

There is so much beauty all around us. It can be seen or heard… and it is felt. It is strongly intertwined with happiness. It is no wonder then that the beauty of our Prophet salAllahu 'alaihi wa sallim fills our heart with so much joy and love.