ICNA Elects Saad Kazmi as New President for 2025-2026 Term
The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) is excited to announce that the current President Dr. Mohsin Ansari finished his four years term as the President of the organization and brother Saad Kazmi has been elected as the organization’s new President for the upcoming two-year term (2025-2026). Brother Saad Kazmi will take his oath on January 25th 2025, in the General Assembly meeting to be held at Houston Texas. The election results reflect a strong commitment from ICNA’s nationwide membership, with a robust turnout and active involvement in the process. Saad Kazmi, a pharmacist by profession, resides in Murphy, TX, and is a proud father of four. His leadership journey is rooted in a deep commitment to ICNA’s mission of building a society grounded in morality and God-consciousness. His election comes after a fair and transparent voting process conducted through an electronic voting system, ensuring broad participation and representation across ICNA’s diverse membership. This election was a historic moment for ICNA, as 80.4% members of the general assembly participated in the election process. Such widespread engagement exemplifies ICNA’s long-standing tradition of governance and shura, where members are directly involved in choosing their leadership. ICNA’s governance process, which has been in place for 50+ years, involves electing Presidents for a maximum of two, two-year terms, with the next two years marking an exciting new chapter under Kazmi’s leadership. His election underscores the trust and unity within the ICNA community, as the organization continues to grow and fulfill its mission through projects like ICNA Relief, Why Islam, Gain Peace, Helping Hands, Young Muslims, Embrace, Council of Social Justice and more. As the largest Muslim organization in the U.S., ICNA remains committed to serving its members and the broader community, striving to build a society rooted in justice, compassion, and faith.At this time we want thank our outgoing President Dr. Mohsin Ansari for his leadership, dedication and unparalleled commitment towards serving the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad PBUH and bringing ICNA to a level where we stand now. We look forward to the inspiring leadership that Saad Kazmi will bring, and we are confident that his vision will guide ICNA toward even greater impact in the years ahead. Welcome, President Saad Kazmi!
Muslims in America: The True Price of Living Here
Earlier this year, I traveled to Jordan with a relief organization. I spent a week visiting refugee camps sheltering countless Gazan and Syrian families, as well as individuals who have lost their families, including too many child orphans. Often when people visit refugee camps, they return with emotional messages, haunted by the tremendous pain and loss they have witnessed, stories of grieving widows, children without shoes, and nomadic campsites lacking water or basic human necessities. But beyond these personal narratives, something else comes to mind, a thought that boils the blood of every Muslim who cares. We ask ourselves what caused this immense pain and suffering. The answer? — carnage and destruction inflicted by people who care little about justice, who seem to care nothing about being the direct cause of human suffering. Yet, we know that the Lord is fully aware of what they do. And the Lord also knows what we do. So, where is the Muslim ummah, two-billion strong, in the pursuit of long-delayed, long overdue justice? Where are we, American Muslims, who enjoy the opportunities and conveniences of living in this country— what are we doing to bring about justice? Are we aware of and willing to pay the price of living here? Are We Willing to Pay the Price? The price of living here is you being angry about the injustices prevalent in the world and, therefore, engaged with the political system. The price of living here is you aiming to be the most pious practicing Muslim you possibly can be. You must be, when the land you call home is one of the most politically and economically powerful in the world. The price of living here is you regularly inviting others to Allah’s truth in a way that reflects the profound goodness of Islam: “Invite to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice…” (Qur’an 16:125). The price of living here is you never compromising on the truth of what Allah (SWT) has revealed and you living by it with firm resolve: “And do not incline toward the wrongdoers, or you will be touched by the Fire…” (Qur’an 11:113). The price of living here is you being required to learn about the worldwide impact of America’s political system as it morphed into a military-industrial complex, to be aware of how many innocent people that the oligarchy oppresses, and to recognize its taint of discrimination by race, class, national identity, religion, etc., both at home and around the world. As Muslims, we are called to care and act when we see injustice wherever it may be. How then can we watch a genocide unfold in Gaza and not engage with our political system? The Prophet (pbuh) said: “Whoever among you sees evil, let them change it with their hand… If you cannot, then with your speech; if you cannot, then hate it in your heart—and that is the least degree of faith” (Muslim). We see the state of the economy, the government corruption, the immorality of some politicians; and we see scores of people who feel frustrated and helpless. However, many Muslims cast their votes this month, determined to make themselves known as an important and integral part of this country’s political dynamics. They voted to make it clear there are hundreds of thousands of people who see the genocide taking place and cannot remain silent. Nonetheless, you may think, “I’m just one person, what can I do?” But this is exactly how the oppressors want you to think— that you are powerless, that you are insignificant. But that isn’t true, and the Prophet (pbuh) said wanting for your brother what you want for yourself is a sign of a believer, offering us hope in the importance of our compassion and our actions. The Prophet (pbuh) said, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Conversely, we also hate for our brothers and sisters what we hate for ourselves. Therefore, if we don’t desire genocide for ourselves, we cannot be complacent when we see others subjected to it. The Fight for Justice Can Never Cease However, the road isn’t always easy. Understand that when you struggle against evil you will likely face people who wish to see you silenced by any means necessary. These people have demonstrated in other lands the lengths they will go to dehumanize a group and commit war crimes against them. Nevertheless, Muslims’ fight for justice can never cease, particularly for those who live in the West. As followers of Islam, justice for all people is part of our faith-based worldview. We must fight for it until our last breath. We must stay focused, and we must plan, work, and strategize to inspire others as our ummah did in the past. If you find yourself falling short, remember the Prophet’s (pbuh) words: “The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others” (al-Ṭabarani). If we want to be beneficial to others as our Prophet (pbuh) advised us, and we hope to earn Allah’s love, I offer the following suggestions: Strengthen your relationship with Allah. Educate yourself and others. Volunteer your time and skills. Use your wealth for good. Speak out for justice even if your voice trembles. Engage with the political system to your best capacity. Reassess how you spend your time. Join and strengthen your Muslim community. Always keep your intentions pure. Most importantly, keep moving forward. Get up and get moving. For those already fighting in the way of justice, alḥamdulillah! There are so many amazing men, women, and youth working for noble causes worldwide and doing what’s required of them by fulfilling their promises to Allah (SWT). “Among the believers are men true to what they promised Allah…” (Qur’an, 33:23). However, if you’re ever struggling to live up to this noble stature, having difficulty in implementing any of the above suggestions, let the coming Day of Judgment be your inspiration. Imagine standing before
Statement from the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) on Amnesty International’s Genocide Findings
The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) stands in unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people as we condemn the ongoing atrocities being committed by the Israeli government in Gaza. Recent findings from Amnesty International, which describe Israel’s actions as genocide against the Palestinian population, underscore the urgency for the international community to act decisively to halt the violence and protect innocent lives. Amnesty’s report, grounded in months of investigation and interviews with over 200 Palestinian victims, paints a chilling and devastating picture of the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza. It details widespread and systematic attacks on civilian infrastructure, including the indiscriminate bombing of residential areas, the targeting of medical facilities, and the destruction of essential resources such as clean water and food. Furthermore, the forced displacement of thousands of innocent Palestinians is a clear violation of international law. Amnesty concludes that these actions constitute genocide, meeting the legal definition outlined by the United Nations. The report shows that these actions are not isolated incidents but part of a broader strategy by Israel to systematically destroy the Palestinian population in Gaza, both physically and culturally. Israel’s attacks, which have killed thousands of civilians, have caused intergenerational harm that will leave deep scars on the Palestinian people for decades to come. As Amnesty International rightly points out, the violence cannot be justified as mere self-defense—it is part of a deliberate effort to annihilate the Palestinian people. At ICNA, we call on the global community to take immediate steps to hold Israel accountable. The U.S. government, in particular, must reconsider its stance of uncritical support for Israel’s military actions. We urge the incoming Trump administration to take decisive action and de-fund this genocide. Instead, we call for a shift in focus toward addressing pressing domestic issues such as mental health, poverty, and racial inequality that impact millions of Americans. It is time to prioritize the well-being of American citizens over the uncritical funding of violence abroad. Additionally, we call on Congress to pass H.Con.Res.99, a concurrent resolution that honors Wadee Alfayoumi, a 6-year-old Palestinian-American boy who was tragically murdered in a hate crime because of his Palestinian-Muslim identity in Illinois. This resolution would recognize the loss of Wadee Alfayoumi, affirming that the United States has zero tolerance for hate crimes, Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab discrimination. It also emphasizes the importance of protecting constitutional rights, including freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest. We also urge the International Criminal Court (ICC) to use the extensive evidence presented in Amnesty’s report to further investigate and prosecute those responsible for these crimes. This includes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who have been central figures in orchestrating and defending the violent and genocidal policies against Palestinians. Israel’s systematic campaign of violence should not go unpunished, and those who have spearheaded this violence must be held accountable in international courts. Finally, ICNA calls for the immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza and for urgent humanitarian aid to reach those in desperate need. We call on governments worldwide to end their complicity in this genocide and to take meaningful steps to protect the lives of innocent Palestinians. The time for action is now. The world cannot afford to remain silent as genocide unfolds. At ICNA, we stand committed to amplifying the voices of the oppressed and advocating for justice, peace, and the protection of human rights. We urge all people of conscience to join us in demanding an end to the violence and in pushing for accountability for those responsible for the ongoing atrocities in Gaza.
Support ICNA on Giving Tuesday: Empower Communities and Strengthen Society
ICNA, a beneficial Muslim platform, to spread positivity during Giving Tuesday. ICNA is an organization of American Muslims dedicated to promote Islamic values by safeguarding moral, familial, and religious traditions. Through its various initiatives, ICNA fulfills its mission of service and outreach. Programs like WhyIslam and GainPeace help fulfill the obligation of spreading the divine message to neighbors and communities across the U.S. Social services such as ICNA Relief and Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) provide essential support, serving millions of people both in the U.S. and globally. Young Muslims (YM) empower the youth, both brothers and sisters, to take on leadership roles in the community, ensuring a strong and dynamic future. ICNA Sisters offers a vital platform for women to engage in strengthening families and society in accordance with Islamic values. ICNA Council for Social Justice addresses critical issues of discrimination and inequality, while conventions bring the Muslim community together as one family. By supporting ICNA, you contribute to these impactful programs and initiatives, strengthening communities and advancing these noble causes. DONATE NOW!
HHRD’s Lifesaving Relief Efforts in Gaza
Since October 2023, Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) has been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts in Gaza, delivering critical aid to over half-a-million fellow human beings through multiple rounds of service. In the face of ongoing hostilities and devastation, HHRD’s relentless dedication has ensured that those affected receive the support they need to survive with dignity. The daily HHRD’s food and water distribution programs since May 2024 have been a lifeline for the people of Gaza, in providing food parcels, hot meals, bread, and clean drinking water. From Iftar dinners during Ramadan to daily sustenance, these initiatives have been crucial in alleviating hunger and malnutrition. Additionally, large-scale daily water distribution through tankers efforts have provided families with clean water, essential for maintaining health and preventing waterborne diseases. Beyond food and water, HHRD has addressed other urgent needs by distributing hygiene kits, blankets, sleeping bags, clothing, and medical supplies to vulnerable families. These items have significantly improved living conditions for those displaced by the conflict, offering a measure of comfort in challenging circumstances. In addition, HHRD has established washrooms in critical locations, ensuring that proper hygiene practices are maintained, which is vital for preventing the spread of diseases. Amid the hardships, a simple act of kindness can bring immeasurable joy. A child shared their story of how life drastically changed when they had to flee their home due to intense bombing. Living in a tent inside a school, they longed for the simple pleasure of eating bread, a staple that had been absent from their lives due to the scarcity of flour in Gaza. The child’s joy was indescribable when the HHRD team arrived with a large bag of flour, allowing their family to bake bread once again. This small yet profound moment of happiness rekindled hope, showing that even in the darkest times, acts of compassion can make a significant difference. HHRD’s work in Gaza is ongoing, with plans for more aid distributions in the coming months. The organization remains committed to standing by the people of Gaza, providing the resources they need to endure these difficult times. The road ahead may be challenging, but HHRD’s unwavering support ensures that the people of Gaza are not alone in their struggle. For updates & your kind consideration, please visit: www.HHRD.Org/Palestine https://www.Facebook.Com/HelpingHandUSA Previous Next A Child’s Joy in Gaza Amidst Crisis “After the war started, we fled our homes quickly because of the intense bombing and couldn’t take anything with us, not even my toys, which are in my room—I don’t know if they still exist or if they were destroyed in the bombing. We fled to live in a tent inside a school because it was safer than our house. At home, we used to start our day with a delicious breakfast, always featuring bread. On the first day in our tent, we waited for our usual breakfast, but unfortunately, it wasn’t what we expected. There was no flour in all of Gaza to make bread (as our father told us). We spent several days eating without feeling full and sleeping without even the smell of bread. But today, shortly after we woke up, I saw someone from HHRD team bringing us a big bag of flour. I started shouting with astonishment and joy: ‘Flour, flour! We will finally make bread again,’ after it had disappeared from our lives for a long time. My joy today with this flour is immense. Returning to our usual daily routine after being deprived for so many days is a happiness that cannot be described and gives us hope that despite all the circumstances, there are still people who care about us and try to make us happy, even with something simple. May Allah (SWT) reward you greatly on our behalf.”
Regional Conventions
29th ICNA-MAS Southeast Convention Houston, Texas Join Us on this Thanksgiving Weekend, Nov 29,30 & Dec 1 for 17th Annual ICNA CON Regional Convention at Houston Marriott Westchase Insha’Allah Nov 29 – Dec 1, 2024 Register Now – Houston Convention https://icna.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/AQMSU5pPXL15QtqnY_27-svFpza6z8NkaAY92ewJIVmymDXOHrdhD0I-m6xAzd4IN4JP3Bsetj1z1wv-O3WOcefD.mp4 Highlights Bazzar Badminton & Table Tennis Tournaments Interactive Presentations Parallel Sessions Youth lectures Sisters Only Program Matrimonial Service & Much more !! Duluth, Georgia Experience the largest family event of the year, bringing together Muslims from across the region for an unforgettable weekend of inspiration, learning, and community! Theme: Unshakable Faith— Trusting the Will of AllahLocation: Gas South Convention Center, Atlanta, GADate: December 20-22, 2024 (Fri-Sun) Register Now – Duluth Convention https://icna.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WhatsApp-Video-2024-11-20-at-6.26.41-PM.mp4 Why You Should Attend World-Renowned Speakers: Hear from Imam Siraj Wahaj, Imam Sohaib Webb, Sh. Mukhtar Maghraoui, Dr Norman Finkelstein, Shaun King and more inspiring scholars. Diverse Programs for Everyone Sisters sessions: designed to empower and inspire. Youth activities that engage and energize. Children’s programs filled with fun and learning. Alluring Bazaar: Shop unique Islamic goods, clothing, and gifts. Delicious Halal Food: Savor mouthwatering meals while connecting with others. Congregational Prayers: Strengthen your spirituality in a collective environment. Exciting Features: Matrimonial services, children’s competitions, entertainment, and career counseling.
Motivation and Maintaining Momentum
The excitement simmers as you are crouched at a race, eager to begin the sprint, energy and strength built up in body and mind. When the starting shot is fired, the potential for victory is unlimited. Most would agree that when an idea for action sprouts in one’s mind, and a plan is then formulated to attain the results, that is perhaps the relatively easier part. The individual is excited about the novel situation, has zeal galore. Yes, motivation is bountiful at the start line. The more difficult part is maintaining a sustainable pace, to consistently make wise use of resources to make it to the end, or to continue long term if your goal is such. Too often we fall into the cycle of depleting ourselves early on, subsequently giving up and then feeling like a failure mid-way. Real victory is enjoying the run, running with little to no negativity, and making it to the finish line according to your initial plan in terms of your intention and your aims. Several tips can be kept in mind to maintain momentum and motivation once a goal has been formulated and is ready for action. Set Attainable Goals: An important tip to maintain momentum is to make rational goals that are within your reach, keeping factors such as your resources, your talents, and your external circumstances in mind. We do not want to set ourselves up for failure by setting a goal that is unrealistic and thus overextending our efforts and stretching our resources. Since we have restricted time, limited physical strength, as well as constraints on every other resource we own and use, it should be evident that we have to aim for goals that are within our reach. Being too harsh on yourself is harmful to your mental and emotional well-being as well as your outlook on life and should be avoided by never setting an unattainable goal — that only leads to demoralization and loss of motivation to continue setting and striving for goals. Christopher Bergaland, a science writer and public health advocate writes, “’If at first, you don’t succeed, try, try again!’ is drummed into our heads from a very young age. These types of pep talks may backfire if the goal is unachievable regardless of how much effort someone pours into his or her futile struggle to succeed.” If, for example, a student decides that he wants to pursue astrophysics but dislikes mathematics, it would be irrational for him to declare a goal of becoming an astrophysicist. He might instead make a goal of becoming competent in math and overcoming his aversion to it. That would be a reasonable goal and if he accomplishes that, he then could consider astrophysics as an academic major and career path. Likewise, he can attempt to discover his talents and strengths and pursue studies within that realm. In fact, Islam encourages us to consistently and continuously take action, make effort, and strive toward attainable goals. The Prophet (pbuh) was asked, “What deeds are loved most by Allah?” He said, “The most regular constant deeds even though they may be few.” He added, ‘Don’t take upon yourselves other than the deeds which are within your ability” (Bukhari). Articulate a Good Intention: As Muslims, the start of any task taken toward any long- or short-term goal should begin with the intention. Islam teaches that every act can be an act of worship and is rewarded, if the right intention preceded it. The primary intention is to act for the sake of Allah. Further, the intention to please our Creator is key, whether it be through serving humanity, feeding your child, or simply caring for your own health. Since intentions are at the root of every action, they reflect the underlying motives of why we plan something or do what we do. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “Indeed, deeds are by intention. Every man will be rewarded only for what they intended” (Bukhari and Muslim). Once we have articulated our intention, we should remind ourselves often of that intention as an added layer of wisdom. When the going gets tough, a reminder of the original, noble intention gives us fuel to keep going. Determine a Personal Reward: Helpful in keeping the spark of motivation alive is picturing what we will get out of it that is favorable to us. In 10 Psychological Tricks to Stay Motivated and Stick with Your Goals, Rick Wignall describes the concept of “artificial positive reinforcement.” He writes that it is “a fundamental principle of human psyche that a behavior is more likely to happen (and continue to happen) when it’s followed by something enjoyable or rewarding.” Allowing small rewards for ourselves after each completed task or level in working toward a goal will boost motivation further. If the goal is a long-term one, break up the timeline and gift yourself once a designated segment has been accomplished. Rewards can be small or large, anything that brings pleasure — a weekend trip after a substantial project or a coffee from your favorite cafe after achieving a workday’s slated agenda. Some may simply remind themselves of the ultimate goal — Allah’s pleasure. Don’t underestimate the power that rewards, even small ones, have on our motivation. Keep in Mind that the Struggle Itself Is Rewarded: One of the Names of Allah is Al-Aleem (The All-Knowing, The Omniscient) so we have certainty that Allah sees, hears, and knows all things. The private pain one goes through, the silent struggles one endures, the internal jihad some must fight to accomplish certain things — all of this, the hidden, inner aspects, is known to Him alone. When we couple that with the teaching that every act is an act of worship if we so intend it that way, we realize that even if the task or the journey becomes difficult, presents obstacles, or even becomes a burden, that we will be rewarded for the struggle itself. The Prophet (pbuh) said, “No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim,
When Role Models Fall from Grace
Laura El Alam Like so many converts, when I was a brand new Muslim, I was trusting and optimistic. Inspired by the beauty and perfection of Islam, I expected that all the “born Muslims” around me would be living upright, wholesome, pious lives. After all, they had been raised with Islam as their blueprint, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as their role model. With the benefits of lifelong guidance and inspiration, I reasoned, how could they display anything but excellent behavior? I was so enamored with my newfound faith and so eager to think the best of my sisters and brothers in faith that I forgot about one inevitable reality: human weakness. Islam is perfect, but humans are not. In fact, every single one of us is a sinner. Anas ibn Malik reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “All of the children of Adam are sinners, and the best sinners are those who repent.” (Tirmidhī 2499) If you are a new convert, you may feel deep admiration for certain individuals who taught you about Islam. Perhaps it was your spouse, a co-worker, or a friend who introduced you to the faith. Maybe you started following a lecturer online because you were deeply impressed by their knowledge and charisma. Or possibly some congregants at the local mosque seem to be amazing people with outstanding character, and you’re thrilled to be in their presence. Having role models is not necessarily a bad thing, of course. A problem arises if we take our admiration a little too far. We sometimes put people on a pedestal, forgetting that they, too, are flawed human beings. We might start thinking of certain individuals as more than mentors and teachers, attaching our hearts to them, connecting our faith to them, and expecting them to be perfect. Then, when these people make mistakes or commit grave sins, it can be extremely painful. It might even shake the foundations of our iman, or belief in God. If we find ourselves feeling devastated or having a spiritual crisis when a beloved role model falls from grace, that is a sign that we have put too much emphasis on that person, and not enough on Allah and His deen. We probably did not intend to form an unhealthy attachment, nor set out to worship someone other than Allah. But if our disappointment in a fellow human being’s transgressions hurts us to our core, it is a clue that we have formed an unhealthy or inappropriate attachment to him or her. As Yasmin Mogahed explains, “Pain is a pointer to our attachments. That which makes us cry, that which causes us the most pain is where our false attachments lie. And it is those things which we are attached to as we should only be attached to Allah which become barriers on our path to God.” How can you cope with being shattered when your Muslim role model lets you down? Constantly remind yourself that only Allah is perfect. His prophets, the best of humanity, were infallible in regards to sin, but still mortal and fragile creations. Because humans have free will and are inherently flawed, we will all fall short of our faith’s high standards now and then. But our mistakes are not His mistakes, nor are they indicators that something is wrong with Islam. Continually refresh your personal connection with Allah, the Quran, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). We are all part of the Ummah, a community of brothers and sisters in faith who should support and protect one other. Bonding, interacting, studying, and worshiping with fellow Muslims is generally beneficial. But remember that in Islam, you don’t need an intercessor between you and God. You are already– and always– close to your Creator. He tells us in the Quran: “Indeed, it is We Who created humankind and fully know what their souls whisper to them, and We are closer to them than their jugular vein.” (50:16) Remember that tawheed, worshiping Allah alone, is Islam’s central and single most important concept. Always check the compass of your heart and make sure it is pointing towards Him alone. Don’t over-generalize. The human brain is predisposed to learn negative stereotypes, but remember that just because one individual does something disappointing or harmful does not mean that all Muslims are like that. For instance, in cases when a well-known Islamic scholar is exposed for his sins, people often begin to suspect or distrust all scholars. They may even over-generalize so much that they begin to doubt Islam itself. Be proactive to avoid unhealthy attachment in the first place. One step is to adhere to Islam’s gender segregation rules. There is great wisdom in enforcing a distance (both physical and emotional) between men and women who are not mahrams. One-on-one chats and lessons, whether in person or online, can easily devolve into flirtations or prohibited relationships. If you are seeking Islamic knowledge, it is best to find a teacher of the same gender. Learn Islamic knowledge from various sources. If all of your information comes from one person, you will be more dependent on him or her and more likely to suffer a huge spiritual blow if their sins are exposed. There are innumerable resources, online and in-person, to learn about Islam and plentiful scholars of both genders. So, diversify your learning. Allah created humans as social beings. We are predisposed to seeking meaningful connection with others, and our hearts can feel profound emotions. There is nothing wrong with loving and admiring people within the boundaries of Islam, but we must always remember that ours is a religion of moderation. We should strive to keep our hearts from feeling too attached to anything in this dunya (worldly life). After all, everyone and everything on Earth will eventually perish. The only permanent One is our Creator. He is the only one who will never, ever let us down and He is the only One worthy of our devotion. Read Other Articles on whysialm.org
Coming to Islam: Jana Hussain
Jana Hussain There is a saying of the Prophet Muhammad (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him), “Verily, the parable of good and bad company is that of a seller of musk and a blacksmith. The seller of musk will give you perfume. You will buy some, or you will notice a pleasant smell. As for the blacksmith, he will burn your clothes, or you will notice a bad smell” (Sahih Bukhari). Growing Up Far from Familial Support My parents moved from Iowa to California when I was two-years-old, leaving behind all their families. We moved again when I was nine, and my parents divorced when I was twelve. When I was sixteen, we moved again after my mother remarried. Needless to say, I did not make any long-term friends. Our family situation was very problematic. Children are very vulnerable to stress in the home, especially when there is no extended family—no grandparents, no aunts, no uncles, no cousins to have as support. The underlying family dynamics caused me to be not close at all to my father and not as close as I would have liked to my mother. I definitely had feelings of loneliness, with my only emotional support being my younger sister. My parents were mildly religious; they sent us to Sunday School for which I am grateful, as that gave me my strong belief in God and His Prophets, especially Jesus, whom I loved for his miracles and uplifting teachings. I did not think too much about the concept of the Trinity and the Nicene creed we occasionally recited in church. It never made much sense to me. I have always been a seeker. I once tried to build a crude altar out of rocks once like I imagined Jewish altars were, but I had no way to connect it back–no sunnah, or practice of the prophets, that outlined how it was done. Finding Emotional Stability & Islam I was not psychologically and emotionally strong, and I avoided controversies, especially about the nature of Jesus. My sense of self felt threatened, as I did not know what was true. I had a roommate from Mexicali in college and other Mexican/American female friends and went to Mexicali a few times to visit with my friend and her mother. For the first time in my life, I saw and was very attracted to close mother/daughter and female cousins’ bonds. It was the first time I had seen a strong extended family structure and realized how emotionally stabilizing it was. I became Catholic temporarily as I liked the campus Catholic services with guitar; it was not as attractive when I attended mass outside. I met my husband Manzoor in college at the International Club and was very attracted to his strong sense of family and his stable nature, born from his faith and solid family upbringing with lots of extended family. I was also drawn to his self-confidence about his direction in life. I did not know much of Islam but learned that Jesus is not considered the son of God. I did not think too deeply about it. When we considered marriage, I agreed that it was better for both parents to be on the same page, religion-wise. There were very few Muslims at that time at the university, so my main reference for Islam was my husband. At some point after marriage I got the book Islam in Focus, which I found very enlightening. One of the things that really impacted me was the fact that in Islam, there should be no separation between your faith and your treatment of human beings, even in the area of business. You had to be honest about whatever you were selling. My stepfather was a strong Christian, but he believed that you should give to God what belongs to God and to man what belongs to man (according to the Bible). In his belief, there was no problem not being transparent in business dealings which never made sense to me even when a Christian. I did not have any information for many years about the life of the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him), unfortunately. The plan was for Manzoor and I to get married in my parents’ house with a Presbyterian minister and then later that evening for me to convert to Islam and get married in a masjid. To give you an idea of my state—it never occurred to me to tell my parents that I planned to become Muslim. My step-father found out the night before we got married and was extremely upset, as he felt I would be condemned to hell if I were not a Christian. My mother was less concerned. She was more worried about any prejudice our children might experience. After becoming Muslim, my husband and I moved a lot. We were in Iran, Austria, and Pakistan before finally settling back in the United States. In Iran, I fasted Ramadan for the first time and felt how fasting seemed to strengthen me internally and gave me a sense of peace. I was first introduced to mysticism or the spiritual aspect of Islam, sometimes called Sufism, and I found it very peaceful. Islam’s Emphasis on the Inward and Outward After we finally returned to the United States, I strove harder in my goals to attain closeness to God. My spiritual teachers always advised to begin gradually and then take on more and more practices as was comfortable and natural. This is especially important to remember. When a person first embraces Islam or even initially makes the decision to practice more, it can feel burdensome and overwhelming. Begin slowly and implement good habits like daily Quran recitation, supplication at particular prayer times, and sending blessings on the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him). The key point stressed is consistency—it is better for the soul’s development to do a little every day than to do a lot
