I am a Muslim. Born into a Muslim household. Islam is my inherited religion, and for that reason, Paradise is my destiny. But my confidence in this is not without basis. I consider it my duty to expose every conspiracy against Islam. I actively strive to protect Muslims from every form of discord. However, acting upon the Islamic teachings of justice, kindness, charity, and refraining from indecency, wrongdoing, and oppression feels a bit difficult for me. But, by the grace of God, this is no major issue.
I have immense love for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). I cannot even mention my beloved Prophet without sending blessings and peace upon him. Yet, his sublime character, which is built upon sacrifice, selflessness, patience, and forgiveness, feels like the peak of a mountain that is too challenging to climb. Honestly, tell me, is climbing mountains even something worth attempting? Besides, Paradise is attained by walking the straight path, not by scaling mountains.
I have absolute faith in Allah. Such firm faith that I consider every person with a polytheistic mindset destined for Hell. Yet, remembering Allah, longing for Him, showing mercy to His creation, and having compassion for His people do not seem like things worth my effort. I firmly believe that the message of Islam is for the entire world and that humanity has no path to truth except through Islam. But the task of spreading the message of Islam feels like a rocky road. Just think, walking on stones—does that seem like a reasonable way to go?
Yesterday, I met an old friend. His thoughts were just like mine. But he was deeply troubled. When I asked him the reason for his sorrow, he recited this couplet and walked away:
“The grief of life—what more can I explain?
The height of my passion, the lowness of my resolve.”
Translated by Taqi Ahmed