WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I MISS YOU?

When I am writing this article, you are already on the plane back to Leeds. Time flies so fast, I couldn’t believe the two months of your stay has passed. When you were here, I look at you sleeping in your room and I feel like you have always been there. It feels good to have you at home – having children at home is simply NICE.

It is amazing that Allah send children to parents with their own characters – perhaps there are many factors that contribute to the forming of characters (I won’t go into that!). Imagine my parents having to deal with 9 different characters. Of course, there are some similarities but one kid from another is different in many ways. Kak Long is the obedient and tolerant one - perhaps because she is the eldest. You, on the other hand, are charming with people with strong determination, very tidy and sometimes can be very fussy too. Amir is still playful, witty, clever at words and of course, like you, he can be naughty also. How lovely the three of you, all praise be to Allah, the Merciful.

I watch you grow… from a tiny baby in my arms to a poise medical student. You are so determined in whatever you do. I remember how proud I was when you were in Bishop Gore. The teachers told me that if all students are like you, they won’t have any problem. You were simply excellent. I believe the environment suits you and you continue to excel. I never have thought that you would also go into medical school like Kak Long (you have never talked about it before), but you did. I know it was a tough decision for us – the financial implication was too much but we are grateful to Allah for making this decision. Look at you now… I am happy that you are doing well and I pray to Allah that you will continue your hard work. Life is always a struggle, you have seen mine too, right? When people look at my two lovely girls, they wonder how I did it, How I brought you up? What was my secret? Well, we don't have secrets, only giving you the best opportunities one can have - good school, good circle of friends and of course, good Islamic environment. It is all Allah's work and your effort, Alhamdulillah! And I pray Amir will turn out well too, Ameen.

Although you spent a lot of time outside, doing community/dakwah work, I am happy to know that you have spent your holiday well – not counting the shopping that you did ;) in between your hectic schedule. I envy your determination.. just look at all the books you took with you on the plane!!!

Looking at you leaving last night, breaks my heart. But I know that you can take good care of yourself. This is one of your strength – a good network of friends around you so I do not need to worry. I pray to Allah that He will continue giving you strength, and help you in your struggle towards success. Although I am sad whenever I pass your empty bedroom, I am certain that you will find happiness wherever you go, insya’Allah. Before you go, I asked you, “What should I do when I miss you”, you answered, “Read the Quran”, and I will do just that.


Take care, princess. We love you so much!