Story of Humble Survivor...The Brunei Times

Outside it was one of those perfect Cape Town summer days. Peering through the wooden blinds of my room I could see Table Mountain uncovered by cloud. I longed to leave the confines and heat of my room but felt imprisoned, waiting on news that I knew was bound to change my life forever. “No calamity befalls, but with the leave (i.e., decision and Qadar of Allah).” (Al- Quran Surah At-Taghabun:11)

My thoughts were interrupted by my two week old baby needing to be nurtured. I looked down at her, and felt so blessed that this little being, delicate and graceful was born. I knew then that whatever it was that I was meant to face, this little being was sent by my Creator, and I took it as a sign to be strong.

Then came the news. News I had feared, but the reality of which had never dawned upon me. I paced the passageway countless times, trying desperately to absorb the news given to me from the other end of the line.

Cancer - Saying it out loud sounded like some foreign disease, one that I had only seen in movies made by celebrities whose fake display paled in comparison to the realities I was about to face. Kneeling on a cold yet welcoming passage floor, I lifted my hands above my head in supplication. I asked for the strength to convey the news of my incurable malignant brain tumor to my beloved husband, children and family. Like an automaton, I had no tears, just disbelief and a strange numbness.

From Allah - “O, you who believe! Seek help in patience and the prayer.” (Al-Quran Surah Al- Baqarah: 153) My parents, who had instilled a consciousness of Allah Ta’ala in me from a very young age, re-confirmed to me that everything comes from Allah and that I should be strong have patience and persevere. Conveying the news to my spouse, children and siblings and listening to them reveal the depth of their own fears was the hardest part. Fears shared by me. But they stood by me, firm and unwavering in their continuous love and support. Our family shares a strong bond and this news strengthened those bonds. It pulled and stretched each rope that held us together. Little did we know that, at times, we would be holding on to only the fibers which remained.

Caged - The weeks that followed were a myriad of Oncologist meetings, tests and planning for the treatment I was to undergo. And like a deer I was to lay caged by high tech machines which were meant to bring about relief. So the weeks that followed become months and I become still and robotic, drifting from treatment to treatment, devoid of emotion.

Only Cure - Then one night, in a defining moment, we made our niyah for Haj, my journey, not just to the holy lands, but my soul’s journey back to Allah. For somewhere in between the treatments, I had lost a nearness to him; in my robotic quest for a medical cure, I had lost the conviction that He was the only cure. So my spiritual path meandered and made its way, not only to the Ka’bah, but to Allah and my complete submission to Him. I completed a walking Haj, alhamdulillhah, proudly carrying the flag of the travel group, the flag to me symbolising not only fighting cancer but fighting for and upholding my spirituality, for it was that which gave me the physical strength I needed. I have been told that, if my dua’as are not answered in this world, that something better awaits me in the Hereafter and that those who are tested have been chosen to be close to Allah the Exalted and to exercise patience. “Verily, with hardship,there is ease...” (Al-Quran Surah Alam Nasyrah: 6)

Humbled - My conviction in this was tested in the ensuing months by more treatments of a harsher kind – treatments which humbled me to the core of my being.

I lost not only all my hair but all of my vanity. And to rid oneself of vanity is to be humbled like a tree stripped of its leaves, exposed to the elements. However, after the winter, the tree emerges stronger and more grounded. I was grounded and my roots spread deep beneath the soil of Imaan and Taqwa and they strengthened me and I survived radiation, chemotherapy as well as brain surgery and still I stand exposed to the wind but stronger.

Eye-Opener - Cancer, this word that I had feared, became my gift and it became my key, unlocking a new world of opportunities I would not have had the good fortune to experience. It opened my eyes to a community needing assistance. Eyes closed to the gratitude we owe for every limb, muscle and movement we so effortlessly make without a thought that, every second, only Allah makes it possible. “And if you would count the graces of Allah, never could you be able to count them.” (Al-Quran Surah Luqman: 20)

Free at Last - Through this gift of cancer, I had to sacrifice a job, once loved, but I know now that I am destined for greater, more meaningful work, work to help shape a path of inspiration and hope and to provide assistance to those in need. On this perfect summer’s day, I sit and reflect in complete submission and

acceptance of Allah’s will and decree and I have no fear for tomorrow and what it holds as I know it has been ordained long ago. The ink is dry and the pages have been written. And I am no longer imprisoned by fear but free in enlightenment. “Verily from Allah we come and to Him we must return”

A must watch video clip

A must watch video clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qt-OuXkHWWs

Brilliant, Allah rewards these guys for this Aameen!

Allahu Akbar! What does it mean to you?

Allahu Akbar! What does it mean to you?

When you hear the expression Allahu Akbar (God is Greater), what do you think? What do you see and what do you feel?

If you were to believe the magic box sitting in your living room, then you might think of bearded men with turbans screaming. You might imagine atrocious “honor killings” in remote villages and feel frightened. How could such a beautiful expression of gratitude be transformed into one associated with fear and unease?

The truth is that Allahu Akbar is supposed to be the epitome of gratitude manifested into words. It is an expression of comfort; a release from the daily harm we commit unto our own selves. Muslims and non-Muslims alike have used this expression as a slogan for their own agendas. Ultimately though, a re-connection with the true meaning of this expression will enlighten us all to it’s beauty.

Remove whatever stereotypes you might have for a moment and try to rediscover what Allahu Akbar means.

Allahu Akbar...

... is when you look into the diamond-encrusted night sky and realize that you exist in such a vast and balanced universe.

... is when you reflect upon your outer and inner self and experience the epiphany that, through His expansive worlds and creations, He specifically thought of you.

... is to look into the eyes of your children and see the reflection of your spouse’s love within them.

... is to know that you can leave your affairs to Him and never be let down.

... is to stand in prayer throughout the night while the masses sleep and to know that He is listening and accepting your tears of repentance.

... is to be a source of strength and inspiration to your brother or sister, knowing that it pleases Him the most.

... is to be grateful for each heartbeat, each breath and each blink that occurs without any personal effort.

... is to feed the needy, to protect the orphan, and to visit the sick.

... is to know that His mercy extends to all creation.

... is to know that any calamity that falls upon you is another opportunity to get things right this time around.

... is to know that He created all humans from the same source and that to treat each other with respect and dignity is incumbent upon us all.

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar! What does it mean to you?

'My Son, I am Your Mother'

Keep the tissues on hand....

'My Son, I am Your Mother'

All praise is due to Allah, the easer of grief and the dispeller of worries, and may his blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, the best of mankind.

My son, this is a letter of injury from your poor mother, who wrote in shyness after much delay and hesitation. Often, she had picked up a pen and was stopped by a tear! And she would stop the tear, only which the heart's wailing would prevail.

'My son...after all this time, I see you a matured man, of sound mind and balanced emotions. It is my right over you that you should at least read this paper, and then if you wish, you can rip it, as you have ripped at the corners of my heart before.

'My son...more than twenty years ago, it was a bright and sunny day in my life when the doctor told me I was pregnant. Mothers, my son, know the meaning of this word well! It is a blend of joy and rapture, and the beginning of pain marked by physical and emotional changes. And after those glad tidings, I carried you nine months inside me with jubilant happiness.

I rose with difficulty, and I slept with difficulty. I ate with difficulty, and I breathed with difficulty. Only none of this lessened my delight and love for you. Instead, my love grew more with the days and a longing for you flourished within me.

'I carried you, my son, enduring weakness upon weakness, and pain upon pain, delighting at your movement, and rejoicing at your weight's increase, though it was for me, a heavy burden. It was long suffering, after which came the dawn of a night I did not sleep in or close my eyelids. I acquired of suffering and anguish, and of fear and alarm, what neither a pen can describe nor a tongue utter.

'The hurt grew so severe I lacked strength to cry, and I saw death with my eyes several times. This lasted until you came out into the world, when the tears of your screams mixed with the tears of my bliss, and removed all my torment and injury. Even in my pain, I held you in tenderness and kissed you before they could take you away and wash you with a single drop of water.

'My son...years have passed of your life as I have carried you in my heart and bathed you with my hands. I made my lap for you a bed and my bosom for you nourishment. I was awake during my nights so you could sleep and labouring during my days so you could be happy. My wish, everyday,

was to see your smile, and my pleasure, every moment that you should ask for something I could make for you. These things were the peak of my ecstasy.

'The days and nights passed and I was still in that state: an attendant servant who did not neglect and a nurse who did not stop; a worker who did not rest and a supplicant for your good and success who did not slacken. I watched you day after day until your body strengthened and your youthful energy turned righteous, and the signs of manhood began to appear in you. I found myself running left and right, searching for you for the kind of wife you requested.

'The date of your marriage came, and the time of your wedding neared.

At this, my heart tore, and my tears ran, out of joy for your new life and sadness at your parting. After that, the hours passed heavily, and the moments slowly, and then I suddenly realized you were not my son that I knew. Your smile had vanished, your voice had disappeared, and your expression grown sullen. You have forsaken me and forgotten my rights!

'The days pass and I watch for your countenance and wait with a yearning sorrow to hear your voice. Your abandonment has grown long, and the days have spread out. I have stared patiently at the door, hoping you might come, and listened expectantly for the sound of the ringing phone until I thought myself delusional. And here the days have extended and the nights grown dark, and I neither see you nor hear your voice. You have disregarded the person who took care of you with the best of human care.

'My son I don't ask but little. Put me in the place of your slightest friend, the farthest from your regard. Make me, my son, one of your monthly stations, so that I see you then if only for a sparing time.

'My son...my back has arched and my limbs have shrivelled. I have been wearied by ailments and visited by sickness. I do not rise except with adversity, nor sit except with hardship, and my heart still throbs with love for you.

'My son, whenever I learn that you are happy in your life, my happiness and joy increase. I am puzzled, when you are the product of my toils. What sin have I reaped that I have become an enemy you cannot stand to see, and whose visit is so burdensome? Did I falter some day in your treatment, or neglect for a moment your attendance? Make me like the rest of your servants whose rights you give to them, and grant me a part of your mercy. Award me with some of my recompense, and be good, for Allah loves the doers of good.

'My son, I wish to see you! I don't want other than that! My heart has broken, and my tears have flowed, and you are alive and receiving sustenance. I hear people still talk about your refined manners and gracious conduct. Let me see, if nothing else, the frown of your face, and the features of your anger.

'My son...is it not time for your heart to soften to a frail woman worn out by longing and restrained by mourning; a woman who has made grief her emblem and distress her garment; a women whose weeping you have caused, whose heart you have saddened, and whose kinship you have broken?

'My son...here is the door to heaven before you, so pursue it, and knock upon it. Perhaps I will meet you there by my Lord's mercy as it came in the Hadith: 'The parent is the best door to paradise. So if you want, you may ignore this door or pay attention to it [narrated by Imam Ahmed].'

'My son, I know that since your height has increased and your shoulders broadened, you have been looking for reward and merit. Perhaps today you have forgotten the words of the Prophet (S.A.W.): 'The best of deeds to Allah is prayer at its proper time, then kindness to the parents, then Jihad in the cause of Allah [agreed upon].' Here then is that reward without the waging of battles or slaying of enemies, so where are you from the best of deeds?

'My son, I warn you from being of those meant by the Prophet when he said: 'Let him be humbled, let him be humbled, let him be humbled.' It was said: 'Who, oh Messenger of Allah?' He said: 'Whom ever finds his parents in their old age, one or both of them, and does not enter Paradise.' [Muslim]'

'My son, I will not raise the complaints or disclose the sorrow, for it they rise above the clouds and reach the sky's door; you will be seized with the evil of ungratefulness. Punishment will come down to you, and your living be overtaken with calamity. No, I will not do that. You are still my son, a piece of me. You are the flower of my heart, and the delight of my life.

'Wake up my son. Old age is overtaking you, and years will pass and you will soon become an aged father. Reward is given according to doing, and you will write letters to your son with tears as I have to you. And with Allah, adversity gathers.' Son, fear Allah in your mother, and be constant to her, for heaven is at her feet. Brush away her tears, and ease her sadness, and if you still insist, then rip her letter. And know, that whoever does good, it is for himself, and whoever does evil, it is against him.

If you go against your parents’ wishes, you may be happy for a while but not for long....

Was Salaams

Who is a Muslim woman?

Who is a Muslim woman?

Ask a woman who bears witness
Ask a woman of substance
Ask a Muslim woman

Hijab Support Group in association with the Islamic Careline presents:

Branches of Faith

As women, we have long been the living thread that binds the tapestry of our communities, and indeed our world, together. Our significance can never be doubted. Join us as we present a glimpse of the many abilities and strengths Islam encourages in its women. From self-awareness to style, poetry to positive reinforcement - come and get a dose of inspiration.

Hijab Support Group hosts this event to showcase the beauty, talent and intelligence of Muslim women.

Date : 19 November 2011
Venue : UJ Auditorium, Auckland Park
Time : 1.30pm - 5.00pm
Cost : R100.00

This symposium is open to women of ALL races, religions and social backgrounds.HSG is a project of the Jamiatul Ulema JHB and Islamic Careline.

Contact Fatima: 0725002344 for more information

Creating Awareness

Salaams My Dear Readers,

I received this from a sister who was in this situation. I read this a few times and each time it shock me to my core...I'm speechless :(

What's your take on this??

Bismillah-hir-rahmanir-raheem
As Salaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu

To Whom It May Concern:

I am a young muslim girl, who writes to you, not to criticize, northrough anger or disdain, but through a heartfelt concern and worryfor my fellow muslimah sisters. As our Ulema and educators in both deen and life, I feel you arefailing our generation by failing to discuss the all too prevalent, although taboo, topic of homosexuality in our community. It has gone past the point of just a few isolated incidents and is nowa full blown fitnah, ravaging the homes of innocents. Indeed experience is the best teacher, and I have been a student of its bitter lessons. Just a few short months back, I was ecstatic and excited, eagerly anticipating my marriage to my “prince charming.”

Little, did I know that the “prince” was infact a “princess.” The marriage too place, followed by the abuse, the evidence of his affair with his gay partner, the denial, the breakdown and finally the divorce. It was a divorce I welcomed and had been denied as his family feared the revelation of their son’s truth. It was not a truth unknownto them, but rather a problem they hoped marriage would fix. Of course it did not, I played the role of a beautiful curtain, veiling the truths of their home and I returned to my own home untouched.

Alhumdulillah, yet another blessing, Allah saving me from the many STD’s and maintaining my modesty. Although he was engaged in homosexuality, he still practiced Islam, even performing the Umrah, leading me to believe that perhaps he assumed it acceptable. I failed to understand how he could stand before Allah in Salaah, knowing his actions.

I only later found out that he dabbled with rohypnol, alsoknown as the “date rape” drug, which leaves you with no memory of the night’s activities. He painted me out to be a materially obsessed demanding woman and even went as far as negotiating to give me a business they owned in lieu of my return to his home. Would that not equate me to a prostitute?

Yet again, I saw my worth in their eyes. Even money can only buy so much. I was married for just over 4 months and most memories still send shudders through my heart. At the beginning of the marriage I turned to Allah in dua,“Oh Allah, turn my husband’s heart towards me, bless us in this marriage.”

By the third month I could bear no more and my dua evolved to, “OhAllah, You have knowledge over all, if there is any good in this keepme in it, but if not then Oh Allah take this from me and me from this.”Alhumdulillah, I am free of the lies, deceit, fitnah and abuse. It has been more than 6 months since the nightmare ended and yet in this short time there have been 5 more talaaqs due to this same reason. These five are only people I know of and those brave enough to speak up. How many more women have lived or are living the nightmare, only Allah knows best.

We often chat and support each other and in every case the parents were aware that their sons were gay. This has spurred me to share my story and with the deepest concern request thatyou create awareness of this issue.The role of the Ulema is to lead, now when people are falling into error, you should not remain silent. Many in our muslim communitystill believe that a muslim boy can never be gay. They need to realize that this is no longer the case and any prospective groom should be thoroughly investigated.

Furthermore, the community and family members should be encouraged to expose these gay boys, before they ruin yet anothers girl’s life. I accept that Islam doesn’t encourage us to expose the faults of others, but in this case would it not be allowed, if not commendable? However, simply exposing them will not solve the problem. They were born muslim, let them not die without Imaan!!

Those who are willing should be guided and embraced back into the arms of deen. We all make mistakes, but they should know that even though they may have fallen into error, the door of tawba and reform is open. The Ulema should open their doors to them and provide them with the required guidance and leadership. Where drug addicts are sent into a rehab, even these gay boys should be rehabilitated and reprogrammed to live as Muslims. Furthermore, parents must be encouraged not to lie about the true nature of their sons, but rather to seek real help for them. By hiding their faults, they are indirectly enabling and encouraging them, giving the message that do what you choose, just don’t let anyone see you or find out.

It was very poignant that whilst I wasmarried, the neighbours were jamaati’s. That is our reality. Our Ulema go across the globe in jamaat and da’wah activities, yet our own youth are losing the deen. Indeed, ignorance is bliss. Whatever happened, has happened. It is the will of Allah. The test is from Allah, the ultimate and only Judge is Allah.

I cannot change the destiny of anyone, yet if through greaterawareness even one Muslimah can be saved from a false marriage then I ask you to please bring due attention to this matter and help this Ummah to find its feet and stay firm on the fertile soil of true and pure Islam.

Yours sincerely,
An optimistic sister

The Camel Hump Hijab Style

''BEWARE MY SISTERS IN ISLAM, AVOID WEARING MODERN WAYS OF HIJAB'S KEEP IT NICE, SIMPLE AND WELL COVERED.'' Many Muslimahs are taking this trend and forgetting that it is wrong for them to wear the Hijab in the camel hump style. The bigger you do the hump the more you look like an alien! Muslimahs that wear the camel hump style are cursed. Nowadays,the latest fashion in south africa n some arab countries,a grip with artficial flowers is placed high on the head beneath the head scarf and draped thereafter.this huge hump on the head resembles a camel hump.that's wat this hadith speaks about. The Prophet Salla Allahu alayhi wasallam also stated "There will be in the last of my Ummah, scantily dressed women, the hair on the top of their heads like a camel's hump. Curse them, for verily they are cursed." [At-Tabarani and Sahih Muslim] Abu Hurairah relates that the Prophet salla Allahu alayhi wasallam said, "There are two categories among the inhabitants of Hell whom I have not encountered. The first are people who carry whips like the tails of cows and beat the people with them. The second are women, clothed yet naked, drawn to licentiousness and enticing others to it, their heads like the swaying humps of camels. They will neither enter Paradise nor even smell its fragrance, though its fragrance can be found to a great distance." [Sahih Muslim] Think about the way you dress. Is it to please others? Or is it to please Allah?

Hair Gathered On Top of Head

Hadith - Sahih Muslim, #6840, Narrated Abu Hurayrah

Allah's Apostle (SAW) said: There are two types, amongst the denizens of Hell, I have yet not seen them. One possessing whips like the tail of an ox and they flog people with them. (The second one) the women who would be naked in spite of their being dressed, who are seduced (to wrong paths) and seduce others with their hair high like humps. These women would not get into Paradise and they would not perceive the odour of Paradise, although its fragrance can be perceived from such and such distance (from great distance).

Try something new for 30 days

Is there something you've always meant to do, wanted to do, but just ... haven't? Matt Cutts suggests: Try it for 30 days. This short, lighthearted talk offers a neat way to think about setting and achieving goals.

http://www.leader.co.za/video.aspx?s=43&f=1&a=2977

You can do anything you want in 30 days

Nasihah

Nasihah (Advice): Muslims are urged to ensure that Musallas situated in public places are kept clean and tidy at all times especially the Wudhu area. This appeal goes out after receiving complaints at the Jamiat regarding Musalla at the Durban (King Shaka) International Airport. Many complaints have been received regarding the unsightly state of the place after use by irresponsible Musallis. In particular, Musallis who make Wudhu at the premises do not wipe their feet or allow their feet to dry before stepping onto the carpeted area, thus causing the carpet to become damp and give off an offensive odour. This reflects unfavourably against Muslims and is against the teachings of Islam. Remember: Cleanliness is a significant portion of Imaan (Hadith, Sahih Muslim #: 223)

Jummah Mubarak

As-Salaamu-Alaikum

Help me, I pray
To get through this day.
As this day is the master of all days
I don't even ask to have things my way,
Your will is okay.

Things done in your way
Are best suited to stay
In the Master Plan,
Help me to help
In any way that I can

Don't let me be
Part of the problems I see,
I just want to come and
Bow in front of you at least this day
Help me to come every day, Aameen

Jummah Mubarak!

Revive Islam in Russia

Revive Islam in Russia

Earn Sadaqah Jariyah (perpetuating rewards) and educate the Muslims of Russia about their Deen by sponsoring Islamic literature.

A project managed by Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed of the Jamiat KZN Fatwa Department under the Auspices of Mufti Ebrahim Desai

Sponsor a book in the Russian language containing 300 questions and answers pertaining to Islam and the life and conduct of a Muslim. All questions were received from Russia and other former Soviet Republics and answered by the Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Fatwa Department under the auspices of Mufti Ebrahim Desai (Head of Darul Iftaa, Sherwood & Executive member of Jamiat KZN)

These questions and answers have changed the lives of many and attracted a significant number of people towards Islam in Russia.

Estimated cost per book: R37.00 (150 Rubles)

Banking details:

Standard Bank

Account Name: Askimam Russia

Account Number: 250550954

Branch: Overport

Branch Code: 043826

Swift Code: SBZA ZA JJ (For donors outside South Africa)

Lillah and optional Sadaqah only. Cash may be dropped off at Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) offices, 223 Alpine Road, The Darul Ifta, 35 Candella Road, Sherwood or handed over to Moulana Ahmed Padia (Madrasah Taleemuddeen, Isipingo Beach)

For further info, Contact:

Mufti Ebrahim Desai (031) 207 5772/072 786 4923

Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed (031) 207 7099 / 083 527 8672

Details related to the Russian project and an electronic copy of the English version of the book will be made available upon request. Email: fatwa@jamiat.org.za

Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said: Every morning an angel is appointed to make Dua for those who spend in Allah’s path:

“O Allah, give more to those who spend for your pleasure”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith #: 1442 Narrated by Abu Hurayrah)

This is an ideal opportunity of Isaalus Sawaab for deceased friends and relatives.

Spare a Thought and Please Help!

As-Salamu-Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakaatu

Where to start?

Help needed for a family in Riverlea Extension.

Both Dawood Conzalves and his wife are blind.

They have 3 kids and the one 7yr old girl is also blind.

They survive on a grant every month, but still need your help.

The house

The roof needs urgent repair - The house next door (semi’s) burnt down 3 months ago and neighbors trying to save the house next door damaged this family’s roof.

Some good Samaritans rebuilt the neighbor’s house but now this blind couple is left with a roof with 2 massive holes in it.

No hot water – The family needs a geyser. At present they have to boil water on a stove for washing etc.

Toilet is outside, the kids sleep next to the bath.

The 7yr old daughter – Is at a boarding school for the blind in Cape Town. She can only come home during the school holidays and was last home over the Easter holidays. She had to stay behind during the June holidays as the family could not afford to bring her home. Please can you assist to bring this little girl home for the September holidays?

Your help if possible is needed for –

- Getting the 7yr old home for the holidays, family has not seen her since April.

- Repairs or replacement of the roof & ceiling before the rain season starts

- Geyser for hot water

- Cupboards for packing space

- Bunks and beds for the family

- Fencing to secure the property

- Cement to level the floors

- Paint to freshen up the place

Any donations can also be dropped off at Scooters Bosmont.

If you can assist in any way, please contact : -

Ebrahim – 073 917 7459, Nizar – 083 268 4768, Marwaan – 082 358 3255, Sumaya – 082 655 6286

May Allah reward you richly for your contributions - Aameen

Happy Marriage

Remember that you will be rewarded by Allah for any emotions you show to your spouse as the Prophet SAW said: "One would be rewarded for anything that he does seeking the pleasure of Allah even the food that he puts in the mouth of his wife."

Never underestimate the importance of seemingly little things as putting food in your wife’s mouth, opening the cars door for her, etc. Remember that the Prophet SAW used to extend his knee to his wife to assist her up to ride the camel. Try to always find some time for both of you to pray together. Strengthening the bond between you and Allah is the best guarantee that your own marital bond would always remain strong. Having peace with Allah will always result in having more peace at home.

Remember that the Prophet SAW gave glad tidings for those couples who wake up at night to pray together. The Prophet SAW even urged the spouse who rises up first to wake the other spouse up even by sprinkling cold water on his/her face. Always try your best to be good to your wife by words and by deeds. Talk to her, smile to her, seek her advice, ask for her opinion, spend quality time with her and always remember that the Prophet SAW said: "The best of you are those who are best to their wives."

Love should never end and we do believe there is life after death where those who did righteousness in this world will be joined by their spouses (Surah Al Zukhruf 43:70) and offspring’s. The best example in this regard is the Prophet SAW whose love for Khadija RA, his wife of 25 years extended to include all those she loved and continued even after her death. It was many years after her death and he never forgot her and whenever a goat was slaughtered in his house he would send portions of it to Khadija RA's family and friends.