Blessed Return: Faith and Service
BY MOHAMED TRAORE
Beneath the grace of God, I found myself blessed for the second consecutive year to embark on the annual Umrah pilgrimage with HIC. This journey, as always, proved to be a profound reminder, stirring emotions and insights that words can scarcely capture.
The moment of awe and reverence when gazing upon the Kaaba, especially when reaching out to touch and kiss the sacred Black Stone, is ineffable. Imagine standing in direct alignment, responding to the call of your Lord, with nothing separating you from the epicenter of devotion shared by 1.97 billion souls worldwide. It's a sensation that transcends words, reiterating the purpose of existence and reaffirming one's connection to the divine.
Within the confines of Masjid An-Nabawi, seated at Bab "Gate" Omar Ibn Khattab, I immersed myself in the teachings of the Sealed Nectar and the Hadiths. The proximity to historical events evoked waves of joy and introspection, pondering what it would have been like to converse with the Prophet ﷺ. These moments became a form of time travel, bridging the past with the present, and eliciting smiles and tears alike.
Home, as they say, is where the heart is: Feelings of belonging, security, happiness, and comfort; are all interconnected when we think of the word, home. No matter how an individual defines his home as, there's no denying that the roots of our primary identity as Muslimeen hold a special place in our hearts; and our home is the beloved land of the Haramain.
Allahuma-Sali-Wa-Salem-Wa-Barek-Aala Nabiyena-Wa-Habeebana-Muhammad ﷺ
Oh Allah, send your peace and blessings on your Messenger and Beloved Muhammad.
Despite my imperfections, returning to serve my Lord and fellow pilgrims was an unparalleled privilege. It's a journey I hope to undertake again & again, God willing, as I continue to seek closeness to the divine.
May Allah grant us the honor and opportunity to return once more. Aameen.
