…and then comes Ramadan

In recent weeks, months and dare I say years, I have reiterated privately and publicly about how I feel Allah has shown me an alternative version of happiness. Perhaps ‘happiness’ isn’t even the right word. Perhaps I should say, ‘contentment’. Because happiness implies a constant state of feeling positive and the reality is, nobody canContinue reading “…and then comes Ramadan”

A Week of Work

This is an appropriate time to reflect and assess how I got on this past week in my new part-time job. One thing I promised myself was that work was not going to consume my life. So far, so good. Being a part-time role, I know that is a huge factor in allowing me toContinue reading “A Week of Work”

The Hypnosis of Iceland

Today’s submission to my personal blog site is a reflection on my short trip to Iceland with my niece and from which I have returned. Alhamdulillah, it was the perfect precursor to a new job which I am due to start tomorrow. Admittedly, I was a little anxious before going away given the financial strainContinue reading “The Hypnosis of Iceland”

Up, Up and Away

It might seem like a totally reckless thing to do but I am planning to escape for a short break to Iceland very soon. I am so tired of routine and the relentless pressure of managing money. I am determined to take control of it before it takes control of me. Therefore, although it mightContinue reading “Up, Up and Away”

How Happy is Mum?

The answer to that question lies with her kids. It’s true that a mother is only as happy as her saddest child. I guess that statement will always be a reliable gauge to my own happiness. And so, I have good days and bad days depending on how my own children are feeling. When theyContinue reading “How Happy is Mum?”

When the Shoes Don’t Fit

Try as much as we like, sometimes it’s just not possible to convince our children to see eye to eye with us, their parents. I use the word ‘children’ in its loose sense. My sons are more young adults. They don’t see the world as I do and whilst I know it’s foolish to imposeContinue reading “When the Shoes Don’t Fit”

See Yourself for Who You Are

A common theme that runs through all my blog posts. I’ve learnt that nobody is going to take as much care of me as me. So, here goes…! In fact, I’ve been on the journey of looking out for myself for a few years now. Ever since I learnt the harsh lesson that I couldn’tContinue reading “See Yourself for Who You Are”

Walking A Tightrope

The other definition of parenthood: tightrope walking. One of the most challenging aspects of it is to find the right balance between knowing when to share advice and when to keep quiet. Constantly assessing and over-assessing a situation to know if it’s a good time to get a positive outcome or not. Sometimes, I haveContinue reading “Walking A Tightrope”

New Year, New Adventures

When we wish one another a ‘Happy New Year’, I’m very aware it’s not because we are ungrateful for the year that has just passed. It’s more about looking forward to new things which have yet to be discovered. Starting at the head of a new year is a convenient excuse to remind ourselves ofContinue reading “New Year, New Adventures”

Charity is All In the Mind

Asked what charity looks like and most probably people would say “giving money to the poor”. It would definitely be the most popular answer. Whilst that is very true, we know that charity can encompass so much more. Sometimes, it doesn’t even involve reaching deep into our pockets. But always, it should involve reaching deepContinue reading “Charity is All In the Mind”