I'm a writer, blogger, husband and father. Writing is my passion, and sharing beneficial knowledge and insights has been a pillar of my life for many years. I blog at dreamlife.wordpress.com.
And so we come to the end of another calendar year, which will predictably be accompanied by year-end reviews, personal reflections, and ‘best of’ lists. For me, it’s been a momentous year – with Hajj the biggest highlight of course (as you may have noticed from the content of posts for the past few months). … More The closing of 2011
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 How it started I’d wanted to go for Hajj for a long time – but had only planned to go two years ago, in 2009. Generally, that’s the wrong approach to take. You’re supposed to go as soon as you’re capable (physically, financially, etc.) – because it’s an obligation, … More Hajj Chronicles: Part2: Beginnings
First life I was a latecomer to Islam. No – I didn’t convert into the religion. I was born a Muslim, but for most of my life growing up, I wasn’t really one – not the way I should have been, at least. I lacked the proper understanding, knowledge, and, most of all, commitment to … More Rebirth
Previous part: Introduction Why? “Why would a person go for Hajj?” It’s a simple question, and if you didn’t know enough about Hajj – or have a deep emotional attachment to it – you may struggle to find the answer. Why would someone leave behind the security of their home, their family, their enjoyment – … More Hajj Chronicles: Part 1: Why?
As salaamualaikum everyone. I hope you all had a good Eid, a blessed 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, and a spiritually uplifting few weeks around Hajj time. As you may know, if you’ve read the last few posts, I was away on Hajj, and returned a few days ago. And while there, I was able … More Hajj Chronicles: Introduction
Having been in Makkah for over a week now, I’d like to use this post to extract a few lessons from my time here so far. From this, I’m hoping to gain reminders that will benefit both myself and the readers. 1. Change demands change The difference in physical environment – between Makkah and Madinah … More Lessons from Makkah
I like rooftops because they are freedom. As I write this, I’m seated on one. No ordinary one, mind you; but one in a city of immense peace; on top of a building so blessed that only one other is greater than it. Generally, people aren’t aware of rooftops. They live their lives down below, … More A most blessed rooftop
I know I’d planned to not post anything while I’m away, but the opportunity came up, so I’d like to share some of the experience so far. We’ve been in Madinah for about 24 hours now, and just this first day has made me feel like this is a piece of Jannah. Of course, quite … More A little piece of heaven
As mentioned in my last post, I’ll be going for Hajj very soon insha-Allah. And that means that I won’t be posting until at least late November. So until then, I wanted to leave you with something that I hope would be of benefit. Many of you may not be fortunate enough to go on … More Until November…
Nearly a year ago, I wrote this piece –which crystallised the dream that so strongly made its way into my heart and mind at the time. For those who are familiar with the process of going for Hajj, you’ll know that many across the world – including here in South Africa – need to go … More The incredible journey
slip-sliding away..... 