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MY HAJJ REFLECTIONS...A JOURNEY OF SELF REFORMATION
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By Farah Manjoo
T he call for Hajj arrived at a time when I had least
expected it, yet the Almighty knew I was ready to be His
guest in the Holy lands. Going on this spiritual journey
has certainly changed my outlook on life. People from
all walks of life gather to perform this great act of
worship, fulfilling an important pillar of one’s faith. I
did not understand its deep significance and the great
purpose embarking on this journey, until I experienced
it myself. The greatest lessons learnt during my Hajj
experience were these three intrinsic qualities: patience,
tolerance and humility. We were tested along our
journey with challenges beyond our control, which built
resilience and the endurance of patience, tolerance and
humility.
The lesson of patience has been a complete eye
opener. I embarked on this trip with a crystal clear
vision of achieving peace and serenity. I know now
that peace can certainly be attained amidst all the
chaos. I have learnt that there is no need to rush in life.
Life does not need to be a rat race on a hamster wheel
- we can let go of the competitions and comparisons
and be grateful for the luxuries and comforts bestowed
upon us. All of us would like to get ahead in life, so
often we can be slowed down by obstacles and
challenges, but all of these setbacks in life are divinely
orchestrated and part of the master plan. The key is to
surrender and to be patient with yourself and others,
and you will eventually reach your desired destination.
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