Day 62… 

what I feel like saying…

When I was in San Diego in 2009, I met a wonderful tribe of Muslims there.

We exchanged not only many differences but also culture, traditions and perspectives.

I was not as open in Islam as I am now. 

That was one of my first trip overseas whereby I learn to reclaim my authenticity and truth.

I did my best to keep my Muslim perspectives as my truth for fear that I may stray. I kept them staunchly as what I’ve learnt from my teachers as a child.

Though we may be Muslims, I dare not see life thru their eyes and believes that my way is the right way. 

One of my idea was to share how mosques in Singapore open 5 times a day regardless whether there is anyone from the public coming to pray or not. 

There is always an imam (congregational prayer leader and teacher) to lead with staff. 

One of the oldest mosque in SD only opens during times where many are able to congregate. And sadly morning for fajr prayer is not one of them.

And one of my kindest friend there who understood my perspectives and life thru my eyes did a trial for 6 months. 

He opened the mosque for morning prayers. He has night shift work. He came straight from work to open and willing to lead the prayers. But no one came. 

While waiting, sometimes he witness the drunks scattered in its vicinity. 

And eventually, he said that its not feasible.

And had to stop opening the mosque for fajr prayers. 

I learnt something there. 

Sometimes what seems right and necessary in one country may not work well in another. 

I then loosen up my rigid limited thinking. 

So many times, I was not open to listen to other people’s perspectives and ideas because I have a strong belief what is right and wrong. And especially when it comes to religion.

And I was humbled by the many Muslims in and around the world who taught me more than I can ever asked for. 

Thank you.

Lina.

P. S: Together, let’s awaken our world by being our most authentic, joyous, abundant, loving selves. 

It’s OK, if you don’t belong to the crowd. Belong to yourself is enough. You are ENOUGH.

Be the unique you and shine. You matter. 

We matter. The world need us in our colourful truths. Stand strong. Rise bold. 

Don’t matter if there is anyone with you or supporting you or the fact that you felt unwanted or rejected. 

You don’t need permission to be you. You are a life warrior. Have courage to do what feels right to you.

Stop hiding in the shadows. Stop concealing your imperfections. 

It’s OK if you have unhealed wounds. Resolute to learn/unlearn, grow and heal them. We are all works-in-progress. 

Your existence is important and it is powerful. There is a great purpose/s in you being alive. 

Remember that. 

I may not know you but if I did, I know, I will love you. Because no matter what we are, we each deserved to be loved, seen, heard and matter.

This is what I believe. This is my truth. I’m Honouring it by sharing and spreading my message. 

What is your truth? Get to know, explore. Then, Express and Share it.