Didiediaries

Dekat disayang, jauh dikenang..

2010-11-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Maher Zain - Open Your Eyes

I could sense from the start that it was different than usual. But little did I expect it would eventually turn out to be THIS special and dear to me. Perhaps it's true that once you've met something/someone nice, you just got to spend more time with the person, and soon all the more good qualities will you see and learn about them. That's how I'm exactly feeling about my time with Apex - it just gets better! or so it seems after reaching my 2nd year =)

Right from the beginning when I met my 2010 batch of kids there were already soo much to smile about. Times were peppered with many delightful instances; like how my little girls already wanted to hold my hands during the first session! Manja2 sayang hehe.. The boys also have their cute antics; of acting like Upin & Ipin, of one squeaking in horror when a bee flew by, and their endless teasing and wanting to sidetrack to chitchats =D Can't forget how adorable they all looked when they earned colorful star stickers for scoring good marks, or excitedly scribbling their answers on the big whiteboard, and asking me with their twinkly eyes for clorets every week.. “Kak ade gula-gula mints tu?” Oh no I hope I didn’t get them addicted to those haha!

Looking back I’m really grateful that Allah gave me this chance to teach them science and find enjoyment in it, alongside my cool co-mentors Istyana and Anuar. What’s more impactful personally is seeing before one’s eyes how kids try to learn and make sense of things.. the way they would come up to us and salaam our hands.. and getting to hear them making du'a and reciting the 99 names of Allah every morning.. subhanAllah~

So when our final gathering came with last Saturday’s Apex Irsyad Appreciates, it was a bittersweet parting to say our farewell to each other. We didn't meet for three weeks since they were having their PSLE exam, so I was very very touched when I heard "Kak Diyana!" and suddenly Sumaiyah sprang up on me with a bigggg hug! =') And it was a seriously pleasant surprise when not only did my girls each wrote me a letter, but even my three boys too! MasyaAllah my sweet adik-adik, I'm more than thankful to have met all of you =)) May you're always safe within His care and that our paths cross someday again in the future, ameen..

Equally meaningful to the whole Apex experience is to have friends like these awesome sisters and brothers! Being with them simply rub off positive vibes on me. Very motivating on keeping the right Intentions and the Niyyah of Imam al Haddad rahimahullah (shown in the collage below). But just as how their niceness and devotion are apparent, they sure have a FUNNY witty side to match! Always were there smiley moments with truckloads of laughter, while ensuring proper gender interactions.. Ahh such rare gems they are =))

I still remember one occasion when a brother shared a poem during our morning briefing: "What you spend years to build, someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway. The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway." Some of us might have heard it already, but what struck me strongly was seeing him in tears, just by reciting and really feeling those lines~ Amazing!

Through Apex I’ve gained much happiness interacting with kids, and now it does spur me to think more about child development and other possibilities too. Questions hit me when I happen to see children playing by themselves at the playground.. Are they getting the support they need? How’s their upbringing like? I’ve noticed emails popping up for volunteers to help students from lower-income families.. and surely we’re very much in need of more people coming forward to assist.

How wonderful if we could ever build a strong network of youth volunteers spread across all parts of Singapore, who are driven enough to consistently nurture our younger ones from various backgrounds. Of together staying connected, to effect change through education and lasting positive relationships. Perhaps it IS possible =) Allahumma Ameen!

"Seek knowledge, because seeking it for the sake of Allah is worship. And knowing it makes you more God-fearing, and searching for it is jihad, teaching it to those who do not know is charity, reviewing and learning it more is like tasbeeh". - Sheikh Ibn Taymiyyah rahimahullah

A Morning at Bukit Timah

2010-07-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

Salaam & hallooo again, everyone! Wah it's been 2 years since I last wrote something here hmm. :) Now having my semester break (more like nearing it's end) and felt it's time I should put up a new post at least once, as what I had promised to a friend studying in Syria.. Just two weeks more to go and soon I'll be starting my 3rd year insyaAllah! Busy, busy phase ahead.

But before that happens, I'm glad Hajjar suggested climbing up Bukit Timah last Saturday morning. Saw it as a chance to mentally train myself for the tougher core modules I'll be facing too haha. Since I had always wished to go Mount Stong and Ophir with Saff Perdaus but never could, guess it'd be good to see if I can withstand the much smaller version first. Pictures credit: Bro Halim.

On the day itself I was woken up by flashes of lightning and thunder at 4am! Pretty worried if we had to cancel our plan, but thankfully by the time I met my APEX Irsyad friends at the Visitor Centre it was raining less heavily. Sat down and had our very filling potluck breakfast, and ahh Khairiana's baby carrots wtih Asparagus & Cream cheese dips were really yumyumm! It was still drizzling so we ventured out to a nearby playground at Hindhede Park, and there were trampoline and ropes to swing around! It was fun enough watching the girls jumping on the not-so-bouncy canvas and playing catch :D We finally began trekking when the skies cleared around 10+..

Although I initially thought that we're going to take the usual concrete pavement to the summit, things got quite exciting when we decided to trudge the more difficult route, climbing looong continuous series of high steps and muddy twigs-laden grounds. Had to go up and down many many times that I kept getting out of breath and seriously weak in the knees! Couldn't talk much throughout the climb with my barely enough energy haiz..

But despite the extra toughness of this route, I'm pleased with how closer we got to experience nature in the depths of all those greenery. Stepping onto uneven soil, steadying ourselves against the trees when descending, looking out over the edges and slopes which were just on our right side (with the frequent shout-outs "keep left!" :D) .. and even coming across wonderful features like the mini-waterfall below.

Just when I started to get all happy as we emerged out into the main pavement, I spotted this towering flight of steps up ahead which stretched far beyond what my eyes could reach! It was super duper high it even looked monstrous >_< Called the Summit Path, this was really the final lap to the top. But little did I know what's bound to come.. What felt like climbing endlessly soon turned into the most excruciating punch I could no longer deal with.

In an instant the dizziness hit me and it got so hard to breath. Really felt like passing out there and then, asking people to just go ahead without me. But in those blurry moments I saw Rayhan reaching out her arm for me to grasp, some others reassured to endure a lil bit longer (Asyraf even exclaimed an encouraging "Allahu Akbar! Go Diyana!!" hahah) and Safa kindly offered to carry my bagpack. MasyaAllah.. so nice of them! With all the help given and the tiny bit of strength left, the summit was eventually in sight and conquered! Alhamdulillah~ yaaahooo!! :D

In a nutshell, I felt the trip was a very humbling one for me: of seeing the weakness within, and the greatness of heart that Allah has endowed in others around me.. Grateful to be in the company of such cheerful sisters and brothers, who are always full of amazing humor but still encouraging the remembrance of Him. Alhamdulillah! =) And now that I've tasted the rigors of Bukit Timah, maybe I won't be going for the other two after all =P

Safar Jadeed.. :)

2008-09-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

“Penat, tapi puas.” What tires one out but satisfies much? There’s many of such, perhaps. But all praises to Allah, when one feels exhausted after all the mental stretching and brain-racking.. you’re comforted once again, like a wave of peace suddenly surging inside - upon remembering that right here, is where He has chosen what would be the next beginning for you, opened a new door for you to go through, and He’s there close as you’re set to run along the path.

And running well I would have to be, for surely a phase of 4 years ought to be fully utilized yea? Although so far it seems unlikely that it’ll be easy, no doubt. But insyaAllah hope I could manage to pull through with His help. =) Today actually marks the end of my 4 weeks since school started at NUS. Quite a big transition from the small class setting at RP to having to dash for lectures and tutorials around campus here, but it’s still awesomeness hehe :D Enjoy getting to learn many different things again in a new setting. Whee alhamdulillah!

Aside from that there’s already some venues I seem to favor and good ones I would want to see around – like the other time during the 1st day of Ramadhan after my Statistics lecture which ended at 10 (with no class afterwards yay!) I gladly walked from our Science faculty to Central Library which was five/four bus stops away – and still feel delighted at the end *suka suka!* With sunshine and happy thoughts it really made a personal feel-good treat even though one’s alone at that time. Hehe I guess my making-myself-happy moment can also come from even looking at the gorgeous blue sky above, green soothing sports field and cheerful little flowers popping right at the sidewalk. Ooh dearies thank you for reminding me of our Creator in your adorable little ways ^_^

And when it comes to finding a good spot for a little revision, there’s now my favorite corner near the musollah complete in having a comfy long wooden bench and worktable, tucked away at the highest level of the building with a pleasant sight from the top and gentle breeze blowing every now and then. SubhanAllah nikmatnye~ haha. Jazakumullahu khairan NUSMS and friends for setting these places at the various faculties… May Allah reward you much with everything nice ye! :D

And when the brain muscles are craving for a good break, heart’s hungry for a good dose of soul-filling moments, it’s definitely a much welcoming relief when there’s news of a “Quran-jamming” session last 25th August by NUS Tasmi-un and IslamicEvents.sg. So just after finishing our lab practical, Naadhirah, Hajar and I quickly rushed down to the Forum and took our place among the sisters’ circle.

A commendable initiative, I would say. For as described in the e-mail, here’s where you could find “The different recitors from NUS reciting different verses in a freestyle 'open-mic' session, in an informal outdoor setting, concert-style yet in a mini and unobtrusive, manner. The objective of the session was to normalise and acculturalise within respectable limits, the reading of the Quran in daily life for Muslims, anytime anywhere.” =)

What’s nicer was that sometimes the recitors would then explain what the surah means and what it means to them; bringing a personal touch and a deeper feel most certainly. Oooh halaqahs and sharing sessions are always wonderful in giving that extra boost of zest and drive to re-energize spiritually. Hmmm but must remember to bring my English tafsir Quran next time so would be easier to absorb and reflect upon the meanings better, while taking this chance to note down some of the lovely verses discovered along the way and which I personally like while they’re being read. Alhamdulillah, a beautiful evening it sure was.. =)

“And keep your soul content with those who call on their Lord morning and evening,
seeking His Face (redha/pleasure)…” – Surah al-Kahfi: verse 28

Ya Allahu Ya Raheem, hambaMu mengharap moga diberkati pengajian kami di sini, permudahkanlah jalan ini agar dapat kami belajar dan tunaikan amanah ini dengan sebaiknya, dan temukanlah kami dengan teman-teman yang saling menyayangi, memahami dan ingin berjuang bersama agar semakin dekat denganMu.. Ameen, ameen ya Rabbal 'alameen..

Refuge Zero Aid Camp? Powerrr~

2008-07-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

Bismillah.. Kabare semuanyaa? Rase janggal pulak nak tulis balik kat sini hehe..

Just as how I had left this space abruptly for months, making a sudden comeback out of nowhere seems quite the way to return is it not? :D Well.. what actually struck me to write again was seeing the view of Raffles Hall just this morning, as Naadhirah and I made our way to NUS multi-purpose sports hall for a test we had to sit for. Yeps, the very hall that we stayed at for the Refuge Zero Aid FOC which ended a week ago. What quickly surfaced in my head then was simply, “Haiz.. Miss the camp la.” Hmmm but why eh Diy? Perhaps this entry could answer exactly that hehe.

Given the really long lapse of time I’ve not attended any of such events, I was a lil bit anxious of what to expect yet still hoping much to bring back an experience worth remembering. And syukur lillah, He had Most Kindly granted my hopes fulfilled in the way He deemed best. =) Right from the start it was a blessing to meet my dearest all-girls Amazon team – warm & sporting newfound friends and very supportive & friendly facilitator seniors! Best sangattt main2 games among us 12, searching for clues throughout the campus, snapping photos, sharing meals and stories in our hostel room during Girl Talk session till wee hours in the morning and more.. oooh great company indeed! ^_^

Aside from this, I’m aware of the fact that organizing any event poses a big challenge to engage in and the complexities involved to carefully tie things together may not be an easy task. But the satisfaction from doing it till the end truly makes a rewarding journey in itself; just as how I enjoyed being with my friends from RP malay cultural group. And having NUSMS and PBMUKS working together to make it happen was interesting to note. With more talents and strengths combined, what could possibly manifest out of these two forces united? I was keen to see the potential goodness I believe they could achieve; and they certainly did - for as a participant I’m impressed with how the camp was run really. =)

Throughout the 4 days the schedule was packed with activities which not only were they part of a well-designed concept and storyline, but also with a good variation of programs that were expansive and essentially targeting different aspects in a captivating way – adventurous, intellectual, spiritual, and not forgetting the fun factor added in.

There were those lighthearted icebreaker games and humorously entertaining energizers to cheer us up, group campus tours as we dropped by musollah hotspots at respective faculties and halal food outlets (with free dishes of yummy Malay and Western meals to savor at each school canteen!) How kind~ ^_^ Mission games against other factions to win clues and prize money, and also the super fast-paced night explorace that left me gasping real hard for breath and felt like collapsing at one painful instance.. Totally testing my endurance limits and patience huhu >_< But thankfully could still catch up with my team who’d been helpful all the way although I’m usually the last one behind running hehe :P Need more trainings diy~

Ahaa and then there were moments with a more serious touch to it but still made a much generous serving of insights to reflect upon – a good dialogue session on social activism by three Malay ministers, a refreshing morning talk on social entrepreneurship and success secrets by well-known Mr Abuayubul Ansari, and also an XY game conducted by Bro Khairu Rejal from Saff which clearly highlights to us the critical issues of trust, ukhwah (Islamic fraternity), and our collective role in the current system and world order. All these and more definitely gave much thinking points to digest and explore. =)

Oooh Day 3 was our uber fun hiking trip on the Southern Ridges trail! Exciteddd! That very morning was already much delightful to begin with – the bus was filled with our voices laughing hard from watching Suhaimi Yusof & his Kelakar Rabak video.. waduuuh sakit perut ketawe :P

Was all happy to set foot at the really beautiful HortPark (a very attractive floral & designs gardening hub.. so nice!) and tracked along the path of the elevated walkway meandering through the forest of Telok Belangah Hill, up on the cursive Henderson Waves bridge next, off to Mount Faber Park with Temenggong Mosque City as our final pit stop and Vivo City afterwards for clues hunting again.

Hmm it seems that really long walks in my green army sandals can result to quite a painful outcome with blisters & sore feet, but alhamdulillah if not for this trip I wonder if I would ever walk through this route someday and able to catch such panoramic views of the city, harbour and wonderful sightings.. What more when the seniors specially hold a concert at the main auditorium after we shuttled to HortPark again for maghrib prayers. Amazing it was seeing how they could juggle both event-management and fantastic performances on Silat, Dikir Barat and Tarian which were no doubt received with much cheers and roaring applause from us audience. Marha marha~ and syukran jazilan for bringing us here! ^_^

Aahh the mega war on the last day was one climatic stage where the freshies and seniors battled in total frenzy! Armed with plentiful of water bombs on both sides and all looking very eager to launch them, it was really a tad frightening to watch ‘cos I’d never been part of any before :D So was quite alarmed at how much pain it could cause hehe.. Knowing that I couldn’t run that well :P , I decided to handle the flag pole with Sofia instead which was the main target that they were supposed to hit. And once the whole thing kicked off, whoaa scaryyyy~ all the filled plastic bags started flying fast overhead and dropping heavily on the ground! Imagine the impact each potentially brings then huhu..

So while they were busy aiming at each other, I was however trying to dodge and cover my head from the attacks. But little did I know that soon enough one was coming right at me and *Whamm!* it slammed hard on my chest >_< ya Allah sakitnyeee.. macam kene hentak je. Nasib baik tak kat kepala eish. The game ensued for a good few rounds and finally ended with both competing on whose team could cheer best. Kecoh habes~ :D

In retrospect I felt that within the outward forms that we experienced out of the games, trips and gatherings from the camp, it had uniquely presented a series of fresh happenings that came with it a lesson behind every encounter. What took place was not merely the fun and laughter, but also a measure of just how much the human spirit could thrive through the moments. We watched as different roles were executed to ensure the plan would turn out well - beyond the formal positioning as committees, facilitators and helpers - they could take on, in essence, the higher challenge to really mobilize, energize and keep the enthusiasm up in people through the whole affair.

Yes, that was the very idea perhaps – of people and the possibilities that could ever happen. We watched as friendships grew out of the short span of time; as hearts engaged out of a given mission that was to be achieved; as souls stood in unison when brothers and sisters faithfully perform prayers together.. I was amazed by the depth of the human touch – of how the voices, characters and actions of the people I met there had indirectly reminded me of the beautiful intricacies within all those – and how moving it simply was that we could connect and reach out to one another – perhaps there is a hidden meaning, perhaps Allah Most Knowing had brought us together with a purpose to meet in the long run. =)

{ Amazon . Cicak . Free Radicals . Orange Julius . Red Terror . Wira . }

May a good journey awaits us all, may this meeting opens up new doors to many beginnings that would lead us closer to His immense mercy and love. Ameen ya Rabbal ‘alameen.. Thank you for the memories, dear Refuge Zero Aid friends. =)

Kami pulang, Ustazah :)

2008-04-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

Just as how it’s planned, all 8 of us who took the RP track after our madrasah years made a homecoming visit to our alma mater, with no introduction needed for its known girls-only pink kain students. :D Bubbly excited we definitely were, with bright robes and smiles, eager to meet our asatizah whom we fondly remember still to let them know we’ve graduated yay! And much a delight it was seeing our young juniors looking all shy yet happily curious to watch their unfamiliar kakak2 who were once just like them. ^_^

It was heartening to hear them being really glad to see our comeback, and moving at the same time when Cikgu said, “alhamdulillah you all still care to return.. some didn’t appear when they’ve left Maarif” and also when Ustazah remarked, “Selagi saya masih sihat.. insyaAllah saya akan tetap mengajar.” We noticed that the years are indeed catching up on them, and their health already a tad affected, but their unwavering faith to continue teaching even though it may have been 25 years of exactly that for some of them, put us – or myself at least – in a renewed drive to give our best and keep in mind their kind deeds in our early upbringing. :)

For a few sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays after that, it was fun seeing Aisyah and Aqilah on alternate shifts as we helped Teacher Sumirah with some things down at the science lab, and sometimes staying over at the cool school library with its Arabic storybooks (oh-ohh.. need to freshen up on the language >_<) and other freshly bought Islamic books. Nice! Diy likes it very much ^_^ And yes, sometimes I’ll just go on snapping pictures with my hp camera and enjoy absorbing the sights and sounds around me (some featured below; don’t mind the low image quality though hehe):

The mushroom garden reading corner – sure looks comfy sitting cross-legged with a book in the air-conditioned room~

It was raining heavily that afternoon, and the primary students had to line up along the corridor, reciting selawat and putting on their telekung as they waited for their turn to head to the basement for Solat Zuhur in congregation. Giving a good reminder it surely is of safeguarding one’s prayers since young, no matter what the circumstances are =)

Hand in hand, walking back home – the Ma’arif sisterhood as we call it; may the bonds between us all live on strong eternally!

Find the above familiar girls? :) Yeps this one was taken from our PSTE (Peperiksaan Sijil Thanawi Empat) result certificate given by MUIS, somewhat like the O-Level kind of exam for the seven Islamic subjects we took. What caught my attention there was really the inscription printed on the document itself, roughly translated as “The Council hereby urges the owner of this certificate to have taqwa and be mindful of Allah always in secret and in public, with sincerity in her deeds to spread the Deen and serve the Muslim Ummah. And Allah is the Most Excellent Bestower of Guidance.”

The very words leave an impact in me as I read it, for I see them conveying a deep message in personally prompting us to remember the main essence of the madrasah education we had received, and also of our crucial duty to actualize the meaning wherever we go. There's no doubt that Al-Ma'arif had taught me valuable principles to start with; so too did the experience in RP which alhamdulillah had imparted some lessons even further.. Am definitely looking forward to what's waiting to be discovered up ahead! And truly hoping to gather all the insights and bring them along for the next coming phase.. May all goes well, ameen!~ :)

Of remembering walidain

2008-04-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

“Syukur, dah besar anak-anak Ibu..” said the mother as she softly stroked our heads. We laughed looking over the pictures, flipping through the family album page by page. The varied hairstyles we had when we’re little - from the round soup bowl fringe look to those with a bundle of hair tied on top like a coconut tree :P, it makes one sees that life has its embarrassing moments but remembering (some of) them does bring back the fun and tickles too! (And never ever to repeat them again hehe) But it’s still a wonder personally looking at how small you once were, and how Allah helps you grow up from time to time, with your parents entrusted to raise and love the young souls that you were till now.. :)

But as we get older, it is noticeable how we start to get more involved with life outside home, as studies come rolling in and you yearn to feel “what lies beyond?” in the circle of activities and peers. And in the heat of youthful passion, zealously pursuing experiences and opportunities like there’s no moment to lose.. It pays to step out once in a while, and see how things could have affected the ones that really matter to us. Had we mistakenly been spending much insufficient time with them? Or what efforts have we taken today to make them happy inside? For truly, in the fruits of our success are we indebted to the favors & sacrifices given by others, as willed by Allah’s unceasing rahmah (mercy)..

This topic inevitably comes to mind when I was moved to tears last night from watching a video entitled “Anak Soleh” by Aiman (shown below). A much notable one it was, for how frequent do we get to witness sons sobbing hard in the arms of their similarly weeping fathers? Then there was this equally touching moment during a muhasabah camp (click here for the vid) where the facilitators actually brought in two figures wrapped in kain kafan and placed them right in the middle of the hall, which definitely succeeded in stirring the participants’ emotions of how would be it like if both their parents were to pass on, till it had one young man collapsed in grief..

I have to be constantly aware that there’ll come a time when I have to part from the ones I dearly love, and to wake up without being able to see them ever again in life. Despite that I’m sure there are really many many things that I’m going to miss, irreplaceable is the void, indescribable beyond words - their voices, Ibu’s warm and comforting hugs.. =’( And I’m actually afraid of having those precious thoughts slowly fading away, what more if they are simply lost without a trace.. because how long could our human memory be able to last? Or how much retention is it capable of holding inside?

I’ve thus had my mind set on compiling handwritten accounts of my family, much like preparing a special scrapbook filled with pictures and writings to help me recall the moments shared, insyaAllah.. such as remembering our usual practice, of having Ibu and Ayah always at the doorstep seeing us off when we leave the house and watch them waving till we’re far out of sight - It’s the deep feeling one gets from knowing their hopes and prayers to God for your well being, that accompany you throughout the journey with encouraging calmness.. Hope the remembrance will calm our longing hearts, and leaves much to be thankful for =) May all our parents be among Your beloved mukmineen under your protection, dear Allah..

~ Reported in Al-Adab al-Mufrad al-Bukhari (Muslim Morals and Manners) by Imam Bukhari

Very much recommended to watch =')

Teringat cerpen Moga Umpama Atturajjah karya Faisal Tehrani di dalam bukunya Kekasih Sam Po Bo (sedikit tukilan di bawah).. Moga kita lebih berhati-hati menjaga perasaan ibu ayah, jauh dari menjadi punca kesedihan di dalam hati mereka.. :)

“Ain, dalam Islam derhaka meliputi sampai enam perkara. Jika memandang ibu-bapa dengan jelingan marah sudah derhaka. Jika merasa diri lebih bijak dari ibu atau bapa sudah derhaka. Jika bodoh keras hati tidak mahu mencium tangan ibu-bapa sudah derhaka. Jika malu dengan ibu-bapa kerana bimbang memalukan di hadapan masyarakat dikira sudah derhaka. Andai tidak memenuhi keperluan ibu-bapa itu dihitung sudah derhaka. Bahkan berasa jemu, menengking dan menghina peribadi mereka dikira sudah derhaka. Ain, kau buat semuanya!

... Tak mengapalah kalau kau tak sukakan sahabatku Hanafiah yang cuba ku padankan denganmu itu. Dia sendiri sudah tawar hati denganmu. Memang dia pada mulanya terpesona denganmu. Ayumu itu lelaki mana tidak terpaut. Tetapi bangkai takkan dapat ditutup baunya dengan perenjis air mawar. Akan terbau juga busuknya. Busuk tingkahmu terapung. Dia sudah tawar hati. Kau tak perlu resahkan dia menginginimu lagi. Tambahan dia akan pulang segera ke negara asal bertemu jodoh dengan gadis solehah pilihan ibunya dan hidup bahagia.”

Pilihan hati?

2008-04-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

“Diy, why is it that all the good guys are always taken?” Aduih. Tersedak jap. Oooh so that’s why my friend was being all too quiet suddenly :D “Hmm.. what made you say so?” “It just seem that the ones I happened to like.. they would already have someone in mind..” I smiled, searching for the right words to say as this might be a bit touchy to begin with. And I’m no expert in these things, no doubt. >_<

“Well dear, I’m not certain of that happening all the time, but.. what I feel is perhaps those whom we might have regarded as good suitable companions for us may not necessarily be so in Allah’s eyes.. the one destined as your husband will be with you at just the right time, with the personality fitness (keserasian) blending well, God willing. If you do miss him, pray to Allah that he is well taken care of and safe in imaan, even though you might never have met him before.. :))” And to see her beaming soon after that was definitely a big relief for me. hehe.

It may not be often for some to think of such things, however at times when the surroundings don’t help at all it’s relieving to have like-minded girlfriends to remind and give that dash of support yea? :) Take Phantom of the Opera, for instance. Who wouldn’t be moved if someone were to say such saccharine sweet words, just like in its musical piece “All I Ask of You” sung by Cliff Richard and Sarah Brightham? But should we not be too careful it might lead off to false hopes instead and getting aimlessly miserable for nothing. -_-

But it's good to remember that Allah's assurances have long been there eternally, my dear. And never does Allah depart from His promises. :) "Kebersamaan Allah ini mengandungi makna bahawa Allah meliputi hambaNya yang dicintai, menolongnya, memberikan taufiq, menjaganya dari kebinasaan dan sebagainya."

(Dari at-Tanbiihaat al-Lathiifah oleh Syaikh 'Abdul 'Aziz bin 'Abdullah bin Baaz radhiyAllahu 'anhu.)

I still remember one instance in poly when I was a bit unhappy with my faulty earpieces which I had just bought two weeks back! And my team member Brant came, took one look at it and said “Alamak this one cheap stuff, of course la it break down easily!” Haha! Yeah I know, you cant expect too much from a $4 product :P Then it dawned upon me that this could also illustrate the point of a love that's purely authentic and long-lasting as compared to one which can easily crumble and steeped in the evil-inciting nafs.. Oh Allah, let our hearts learn to feel Your love, and help us learn to love You more day by day..

"Cinta murah ini bersifat sementara, sedangkan cinta yang mahal adalah yang bersifat kekal. Daging, urat dan kulit akan reput dan hancur, bersama luruhnya cinta yang bersandar padanya. Jika cinta sekadar dapat dicapai dengan pancaindera yang lima, maka itu belum cinta yang hakiki. Ia bukan diukur menurut pandangan mata kepala, tapi mengikut pandangan matahati. Cinta itu datang dari Allah dan diberi sebagai bekal untuk mendapat kecintaan Allah.."

~ Dipetik dari buku Tentang Cinta oleh Ustaz Pahrol Mohd Juoi.
Wajar dimiliki, elok direnungi! :)

The Big Day~ ^-^

2008-04-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

Oooh the vibes! We girls were thrilled as we first tried out the graduation robe for the size most suitable, squealing "ehhh bestnyee! macam lawyer-lawyer!" in stifled low tones. Hehe. Who would’t be feeling all jumpy inside when a much waited moment finally comes? But why oh why must the nerves always like to tag along? >_< Adeih. Had to constantly soothe those too.. but glad it worked for I was surprised to actually find myself walking calmly on and off the stage. Yay! :D

With Bavani, Raudah & Maimanah~ Thanks for the snapshot Fahmezah! :)
Alhamdulillah, things went smooth and fine on the day itself! It started out great too when I was really pleased to still get to see Syasya and Ayu, whose graduation ceremony was hours before mine at 1. Happy to meet your mom at last Sya! ^_^ All smiles, cameras flashing everywhere and it’s simply a wonderful feeling to have family dearest and sweethearts by your side.. A day to be remembered, definitely. Thank You Allah.. =)

"A hug is worth a thousand words. A friend is worth more. Thank you for being a great friend.
And may we be in each other’s prayers always." – Aisyah <3
Our dear Aisyah was really sweet too to hand each of us a pack of her yummy home-baked cookies with their generous amount of chocolate chips, nicely tied with a blue ribbon and a handwritten message above. Merci my dear! InsyaAllah.. will always be praying for you and the loved ones ye.. *hugs* =)

Selamat Pengantin Baru! :)

2008-03-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

Manis rupawan indah pekerti, duduk bersanding berseri-seri
Saatnya menikah hadirlah kini, terjalin ikatan hati ke hati..
Syukur terasa melihat mempelai, bertemu jodoh membina mahligai
Kuharap barakah iringi bersama, kekal bahagia di dalam redhaNya..

~ Nurdiyana Md. Nasir, 30hb Mac 2008
Khas buat Sis Nur Khairiah & Bro Mohammad Hafiz

Kak widz, terima kasih sangat2 atas undangan walimahnya yang cukup indah & meriah..
I’m soo happy for u sis! Gembira dapat hadir di sana.. ^_^

Hmm.. kalau pergi majlis saudara-mara atau teman kita sendiri yang baru je dirikan rumah tangga, selalu jugak terdengar tetamu/kengkawan ucapkan selamat pada pengantin dengan "semoga bahagia dan dapat ramai anak." Oooh tapi kan, ada tau doa yang lebih lebih lebih (!) baik lagi dari Rasulullah s.a.w yang boleh kita hadiahkan buat kedua mempelai~

BaarakAllahu laka wa baaraka 'alaika wa jama’a bainakuma fi khair.. "Mudah-mudahan Allah memberkati kalian berdua dan melimpahkan keberkatan kepada kamu berdua, serta mengumpulkan kamu berdua dalam kebaikan.." (Hadith Shahih) Nak tahu kenapa istimewanya barakah? Ahaa ni ada sedikit petikan menarik yang Diy baca dari majalah Anis dan weblog Ummu Abdullah.. Akan terjawab soalan tu nanti insyaAllah :)

"Kita mahukan keberkatan kerana pada keberkatan itu ada ketenangan, kebahagiaan dan kegembiraan walaupun andainya hidup susah. Pada keberkatan ada rasa cukup dan puas dengan apa yang ada walaupun andainya sedikit, dan rasa syukur jika banyak.. Pendek kata, keberkatan memberi suatu rasa nikmat dan nikmat itu datangnya dari Allah. Ini sesuai dengan pengertian berkat yang diberi oleh para ’ulama iaitu "adanya kebaikan Tuhan pada sesuatu." - Majalah Anis

Alhamdulillah, dah berumahtangga semuanya anggota kumpulan nasyid Inteam..
Sukaa sangat lihat keluarga yang muda tapi soleh tampaknya ^_^ :: Blog Hazamin ::

Barakah & Keluarga Penyayang

"Apapun yang berlaku, kedua-dua pasangan suami isteri saling bersyukur kepada Allah dikurniakan seorang yang menemani. Tatkala isteri melakukan kesilapan, suaminya tidak akan terus menyalahkan dan memarahi, akan tetapi timbul perasaan ingin membantu pasangan memperbaiki diri. Tatkala suami kelihatan tidak memahami, isteri tidak terus merajuk membawa diri, akan tetapi berusaha menerangkan pada suami. Bagaimanapun keadaannya, kan waktu berteman lebih baik dari bersendirian.

Mendoakan barakah bermakna anda mendoakan wujudnya bahagia, banyak anak, kekal dunia akhirat, sakinah mawaddah wa rahmah, pendek kata segala pengharapan yang di hujungnya ada kebaikan, semuanya terangkum dalam doa mencapai keberkatan. Dan berkat adalah keajaiban. Keajaiban yang hanya akan didapati oleh seorang yang beriman dengan sebenar-benarnya.. "

"Sekiranya penduduk negeri itu, beriman serta bertakwa, tentulah Kami akan membuka kepada mereka (pintu pengurniaan) yang melimpah-limpah berkatnya, dari langit dan bumi, tetapi mereka mendustakan (ayat-ayat Kami) itu, maka Kami siksa mereka disebabkan perbuatannya."( Surah al-A'raf: 96)

The end of it all..

2008-03-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

Yeps, the very final day of my 3 years in RP! And this supposed entry is a month plus delayed too (Very late, I know. :P) So how did it go? Hmmm. Truth be said, during that final week I was surprisingly feeling all fine with it. Well there was a lil bit of the blues here and there; but still it’s nowhere near weepy. "Why ah? Is your heart feeling all right diyana? You should be sad you know. O_o" Aisey.. Remembered telling myself that even on the morning itself.

The last Applied Chemistry class with our facilitator, Dr Asma Chowdury

The MCG juniors were truly thoughtful to arrange a graduation party for us year 3s that evening, coming up with a special Masquerade concept for us to abide by. And the place was transformed really nicely by them too! :) Funny it was to be one of those called onstage during a game segment and was asked to imitate a Silat martial art member (oh nooo..) while the audience had to guess who the person might be. But the embarrassing thing is, I accidentally blurted the name out when I was actually saying it to myself (!) which I thought would help me remember it better and figure out how to do the steps afterwards. Haiya.. This is what happen if you have a habit of sometimes reading aloud what you see.. =S

'Arifah the Emcee lady: *shows card with Maryam’s name on it*
Me: oooh Maryam.. Eh alamak! Tercakap pulak.. >_< *Hides face*
Aduuh paisey habes.. no choice but to still continue with the action demonstration part. But the 4-seconds hands movements & "kaki pasang kuda2" turned out more like some Tai Chi in the pictures la pulak.. =P Aside from that the programs lined up were entertaining really with touching videos, song performances, more games and other items finely in place. :)

And then.. jeng jeng jeng.. as expected, the floodgate of tears finally unlocked when they played an acoustic rendition of Peterpan’s "Semua Tentang Kita". It was right then when Raudah approached us one by one, giving a pocket-size calendar with a printed picture of her and me as a memento. Awww Rau… thank you dearest! <3 It really moved me so so deep as we asked each other for forgiveness, expressed thanks for all the wonderful companionship since the day I knew her as my very 1st friend in RP & fyp teammate, in a long embrace with tears streaming.. soon the process repeated its course and found most of the girls huddled together in sobs and eyes very much reddened..

Oh my.. I guess that moment it finally hit me that this was the finale all right. And although it’s said that this is perhaps not gonna be the last time for us to meet, it dawned upon me that we’d each be moving away with our lives, getting caught up with different issues.. Would there be lesser things to relate to and smaller chances of bumping into one another after this? Would the warmth slowly fade away replaced by silence & the bond eventually disappears with time? Truly, it’s a heavy test of friendship from now on I realize...

Best times with girlfriends I had in Year 1 Semester 2! ~ much loved Syasya, Ayu & Azzah :))
Just as I really hope so much that it will only be getting stronger up ahead, with efforts and remembrance carefully planted insyaAllah - but should it dwindle still.. I’d take comfort in the fact that Allah Most Gracious has kindly allowed me to share such good moments with You once upon a time, and that out of all the people alive You’re the one He has let me meet and remarkably experienced a feeling I hold dearly..

To You my friends, truly fortunate am I to have known You when our paths intertwined, and for the meaning You’ve brought in mine. Thank You, for this friendship that had taught me much, in more ways than one. :)) Alhamdulillah..

"Semoga kita kan bertemu & bersahabat, dan kekal begitu hendaknya, di tempat & waktu yang ditentukan Tuhan.." :)

Hadiah Istimewa

2008-03-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

Semakin mekarnya cinta, semakin ingatan itu ada
Tambah harum kuntuman kasih, jika bakti dicurah seikhlasnya
Di situ ’kan terasa manisnya, yang dinikmati dengan imannya
Tidakkan kecewa insan yang mengharap, andai yang dikejar redha Penciptanya
Kerna di Syurga ganjarannya ada, buat jiwa yang kuat berusaha
Di dalam sujud adanya tenang, buat hati yang kembali mengingatiNya

Letih terlerai resah pun hilang, demi Yang Mengasihi ku gagahkan jua..
Tuhan, walau hidup kian bertamu cabaran, namun di sisiMu kutemui kekuatan..

~ Nurdiyana Md. Nasir, 25hb Mac 2008
@ Nour Kartika, Singapura

Klik di sini untuk membaca/muat turun keseluruhan komik Alwan mini 3. :)

Through the years..

2008-03-02T13:42:00.000-08:00

"Ni ape kes ade Power Rangers pulak nih..??" Must be quite startling to see these multi-colored superheroes eh? Don’t know what got into me that I was so enthused with finding their classic theme song and made the simple collage below :D Guess I was struck with reminiscing my childhood favorites (The MMPR series first aired in 1993!) after coming across the "..if you were born in the 80's in Singapore" group at Facebook. Splendid!

It’s hard not to let out a smile when you could easily identify with Lots of familiar pictures & descriptions being put up there one after another. Be it the little knickknacks or tidbits like a pack of mamee monster and Ding Dang chocolate biscuits with its free toy that I would always excitedly look forward to uncover, it’s a comforting thought to remember how one may be easily contented with the simple things in life as seen from a child’s angle. Definitely evokes a sentimental longing & tender emotions inside. Aaah~ sweet memories are best kept safe and recalled once more. :))

As the younger years left us behind in flashbacks and echoes of innocence, we've grown to realize that the life we would have to face is not all merriment and laughter, but of one that is continuously tested to grow in maturity and ripen with increasing strength. And with this comes the challenge that would hold a person accountable for the time and gifts he's bestowed with, while he moves on into a larger world of possibilities. Things become tougher down the road – that even to confront one's own emotions may need courage to sail through.

As I write this I'm reminded of Cikgu Surya Kenchana’s advice to my friends and I that day, in which Courage is not about the absence of fear – but of how we actually manage it. True enough, I thought. More so when during these times we’d have to deal with fear of failures and making blunders; of moving on and learning to forgive oneself for it’s all too easy to be deeply troubled when past mistakes come haunting. Ouch. This point I would really have to learn – for it’s somehow much much easier for me to forgive others than being easy on myself. Should relax down a bit on the self-criticism part. Hehe. One step at a time, Diy. One step at a time.. insyaAllah :)

"A man may have failed many times, but he isn't a failure till he gives up."

Photo credits to Ashting, Shutterblog and Ferran

It was really terrifying when I was first shown this actual footage of people committing suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California. Astarghfirullah… I became quite giddy as soon as the man hit the water’s surface. Guess I was too stunned seeing death right on screen, what more with him being a man in his 50’s and probably someone’s very much depressed father needing help and solace.. :(

"Allah is the Protecting Friend of those who have faith:
from the depths of darkness He will lead them forth into light." - (Surah al-Baqarah, 2: 257)

For me to watch this, it's very sad to know what a person might wrongly do should they mistakenly lose all hopes in life and plunge into despair when the burden felt too much to endure. But how fortunate we truly are to have our Sole Sustainer and Most Merciful forever near, for us to find the most trustworthy support in Him.. For when things become unbearable, turn to Allah. Yakinlah dengan Allah. Have hope in His promise of a good life rewarded for the believers and those who remain patient. InsyaAllah there’ll be a continuous source which shall ease the pain, comfort the heart and give the strength to move on. Ameen.. :))

Good Food, Great Company

2008-03-01T15:12:00.000-08:00

“8.90? 14.90??” I could still remember myself scanning hard through the list, seriously hoping for something that’s not too costly. For a very first trip with four others to the eatery it did make me all cheery initially, what more with getting a free treat to those delightful variety of dishes & Ice-creams I’ve never tasted before~ yay yay Ustazah belanja! :D But as soon as the numbers hit me a minute after, the only thing that mattered in my head that time clearly was to try finding the one most affordable. *Alamak.. takde yg murah siket ke? Segannye nak pilih..* >_<

That, was somewhere back in 2002. And it still remains a very rare instance to step into such a place up till now :D I guess growing up frequenting normal hotspots like Haig Rd and Bedok Interchange food courts for the family’s eating out occasions have made me well-attuned to the cheap prices and personal favorites there; so it’s pretty much a practice to opt for delish finds with a good price tag. Somehow I’ve recently developed this gastronomic quest searching for the possibly yummiest selections that I would suddenly think about too – Like Ikan Pari Bakar Sambal or Grilled Sting Ray, different kinds of Otak-otak (The one from Geylang Serai market at Otak-Otak Kampong Wak Murset stall was a real nice change with lots of freshly grated coconut =) ) and sweet pastries. Ooh my~ :P

Picnic at RP's Beautiful Green Lawn with my RP-Ma'arifian Girls | Potluck lunch dates ^_^

And.. I feel that Ibu’s advice do make an impact in me still – better to resist buying mere scoops of branded ice-cream from a food chain and going for a Tub of Grand Triple Chocolate from King’s premium range instead. “Smooth Chocolate Ice Cream loaded with Crispy Chocolate-coated Sunflower Seeds and laced with swirls of Chocolate Fudge”. Now how about that?? Hehe. Love it so especially when sharing it together with the family. ^_^

Talking about sharing a meal, I couldn’t agree more of it possibly be one lovely experience with a lesson in itself. Being taught to be mindful of others when we’re enjoying good food, it’s always a pleasant feeling in return when we invite friends or others near in sight to have a share and watch them liking it too. Or be thoughtful of taking an appropriate portion and amiably encouraging the other party to have the good parts as well.

Still remember dear Raudah and I ordering a single Tom Yam Soup and happily tucking away with the golden fried chicken wings & Kway Teow Hong Kong together. SubhanAllah, it really feels more tummy-filling & satisfying too~ *happy sigh* Us three sisters definitely love it when Ibu would feed a mouthful of rice & gravy or any food for that matter when we teasingly asked for a taste. Bestnyee rasa disuap!~ :D All these definitely make good bonding moments aye? =)

“O Believers, eat of what is good and pure that We have provided you with and be grateful to Allah, if you truly worship Him.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 172)

Dining at Seoul Garden with the ex-MCG committee~ Uber Fun! ^_^ Guess it'd be interesting to get to head down to new settings and sample halal dishes from other cultures once in a while yea? Hmmm.. Cafe Le Caire @ Al Majlis seems impressive with its lineup of Middle Eastern cuisine. Amaciam girls? Nak try? :D hehe

Of Calls and Reliance

2008-02-13T09:04:00.000-08:00

Handphone, handphone. Having one is unthinkable for me just 10 years back. And now mobile pagers are practically out of the scene eh? But the issue here is not about getting all those actually. Just going to put down some random observations (and hopefully making some sense here) :D What I had in mind was of the reactions people may sometimes display as to answering (or not) to calls coming in.

I myself, for one, might have had a somewhat minor case of “Telephobia” if that word does exist. :P For any unknown numbers shown could spontaneously trigger some fearful dread of having to pick it up in that 7 seconds or more. Too much sudden suspense in it, I thought. Or chances of being all too embarrassed from possibly mishearing the other party for some parts. Aduh paiseynyee.. Oooh tapi sekarang dah tak takut lagi dah.. hehe. :D

It’s kinda funny too when you see people not wanting to answer when she is annoyed towards that particular person and showing her very resentment that way – with an expressive “aaah biarr dia rasakan!!” Whoa danger zone tu. Or perhaps there’s one who simply likes to dilly-dally and take his own sweet time, only to respond after it’s been ringing for soo long. -__-

Photo credits to Tono and Toshio

So any connections that I can tie up with the reality? Hmm. What I tried to figure out from here is that, the idea of a “call” can possibly be an instance when we’re called upon to come forward, of situations that demand our actions to be in place, be it having to take a plunge in the working world or even charting the next direction in life. The urgency, the uncertainties, and no doubt the very importance of it all.. one can’t help but feel a bit too anxious about the possibilities that can happen at times. But are excessive worries really necessary? And then a moment arrives bringing unfavorable news, something that we dislike receiving altogether but will still have to deal with them upfront no matter what. Should blasting out furiously be the case then?

The Power Booster

Related by Imam al-Bukhaaree in his Saheeh (#6363) from Anas - may Allah be pleased with him - who said: “I would serve the Messenger of Allah whenever he would come out and I would hear him constantly reciting;

“O Allah I seek your protection from anxiety and depression, and I seek your protection from failure and procrastination,
and I seek your protection from cowardice and stinginess, I seek refuge in you from the struggles of debt and
from the subjugation of the people..”

SubhanAllah, this very supplication above is one out of my many favorite du’a actually. ^_^ Covers a lot on keeping us away from varied sources of distress, don’t you think? Some would say that he is strong enough to counter all odds by himself, or determined enough to battle life’s challenges bravely. But is it really sufficient to simply proclaim all those? On what grounds is he 100% sure he would achieve all his goals? For we do not know the outcomes that will eventually reveal themselves, and He is Ever Most Knowing of where our path will lead to over time. So let's not falter and weaken in our strife with patience, and turn to Allah earnestly in trust and reliance, for He is Most True to His promise, dearest ones. :) No time to delay~

“Whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and has Faith, verily, to him will We give a life that is good and pure and We will bestow on such their reward according to the best of their actions.” (Surah an-Nahl: 97)

Puisi: Aku Pulang

2008-02-11T21:43:00.000-08:00

Sedegup jantung bertasbih
Senafas ingatan teralih
Pada Dia.. Pada Dia..

Mata terpejam hati menggumam
Gumpalan rasa sarat mencengkam
Langkah kaki menapak bimbang
Mendongak ke langit
Kabut menghalang
Bagai ribut datang menerjah
Gelisah merusuh tak tentu arah

Diam terpaku duduk membisu
Masihkah terus dihimpit sayu?
Tidakkah semalam berlalu pergi?
Ingin ke mana membawa diri?

Iya.. Kan kupulang semula
Kembali meraih tenang
Kembali meraih bahagia
Saat manis saat duka
Mengambil teduh di sisiNya

Melabuhkan harapan
Di celahan tangis dan do’a
Segala yang tercurah
Dari jiwaku
Di atas hamparan sejadah..

Nurdiyana Md Nasir
11hb Februari 2008
Hujrah Dian Kartika, Singapura

AGM 2008

2008-02-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Salaam 'alaikum! Fuh.. am finally back again - with the very first update for this year at that. Eish lambat btul diy ni =P Guess a recap might do some good around here eh? And one which can fit the bill nicely would perhaps be the Annual General Meeting we had – finishing our committee’s term at long last~ phew ^_^ The day saw us bidding farewell to the posts and welcoming our new lineup for 08/09.. InsyaAllah you all can lead well together :) Jia you~

But this being the end of our batch, it definitely resulted to a bit of tearing that day. Especially by yours truly. Aduh.. Nasib baik tak nangis teruk sangat. It's kind of funny actually to think back that I was quite afraid of them at the beginning eheh :D But subhanAllah, little did I know of how things would eventually turn out to be! From not knowing most of them at the beginning.. to a point where now I could safely say they are truly an amazing group of friends I’ve come to know of, every single one of them. It’s sincerely been a great two years spent with you, dearest team. :)

Bersama teman-teman Pentas Karyawan .. MCG's Drama & Literary group <3

Top (from left): MCG Committee AY 06/07 - Dian (Dikir Head), Raudah (Welfare), Azrina (Tarian Head), Ashik (Publicity), Adila (Secretary), Fadilah (Treasurer), Zulazmie (President), Diyana (Vice President/Literary Head), Syaikhul (Silat Head), Maimanah (Logistics)

Bottom (from left): MCG Committee AY 08/09 - Ain (Dikir Head), Razan (Welfare), Asri (Tarian Head), Kamirah (Publicity), Maryam (Secretary), Zubaidah (Treasurer), Wirni Asyura (President), Saiful (Vice President/Silat Head), Kholiq (Logistics), Huda (Literary Head)

"Memories sealed for keeps - You’re remembered dearly." ^_^

Anna Althafunnisa <3

2007-12-24T02:29:00.000-08:00

Gadis itu berjalan dengan hati berselimut cinta. Hatinya berbunga-bunga. Siang itu, Cairo ia rasakan tidak seperti biasanya. Musim dingin yang sejuk, matahari yang ramah, serta senyum dari Profesor Amani saat memberinya ucapan selamat dan doa barakah. Semua melukiskan suasana indah yang belum pernah ia rasakan sebelumnya. Ia merasakan begitu dalam rahmat dan kasih sayang Allah kepadanya. Kedua matanya basah oleh airmata haru dan bahagia.

Sesungguhnya yang membuat dia menangis tidaklah semata-mata rasa bahagia kerana proposal tesisnya diterima dalam waktu begitu singkatnya, sementara ada mahasiswi yang sudah dua kali mengajukan proposal tesis dan telah menunggu setahun tapi belum juga diterima. Namun yang membuatnya menangis, kerana ia teringat, bahawa yang dirasakannya barulah kebahagiaan duniawi, bukan ukhrawi.

Begitu bahagianya ia, ketika jerih payahnya, kerja kerasnya memerah otak, tungkus-lumusnya ke perpustakaan Shalah Kamil, membuka dan menganalisis ratusan rujukan, akhirnya membuahkan hasil yang melegakan jiwa. Begitu bahagianya hatinya saat diberi ucapan selamat oleh Profesor Amani, Guru Besar Ushul Fiqh yang sangat dicintai para mahasiswinya itu. Benarlah kata pepatah, siapa menanam, dia menuai.

"Selamat, anakku, semoga umurmu penuh barakah, ilmumu bermanfaat. Teruslah belajar dan belajar!" Air matanya kembali mengalir. Ia lalu berkata pada diri sendiri, lantas seperti apakah rasanya ketika nanti di hari akhir seseorang mengetahui amalnya diterima Allah. Ia menerima catatan amalnya dengan tangan kanan. Dan mendapatkan ucapan selamat dari Allah, dari Baginda Nabi, dari malaikat penjaga syurga, dan dari seluruh malaikat, para nabi dan orang-orang soleh. Saat syurga menjadi tempat tinggal selama-lamanya. Kebahagiaan semacam apakah yang dirasa?

Ia melangkah. Matanya basah: "Rabbana taqabbal minna innaka antas sami’ul ’aliim. Tuhan terimalah amal kami, sesungguhnya Engkau Maha Mendengar lagi Maha Mengetahui." Lirihnya dalam hati, sambil menghayati dengan sepenuh jiwa bahawa tiada prestasi yang lebih tinggi dan diterimanya amal soleh oleh Allah dan dibalas dengan keredhaanNya...

~ Petikan dari "Ketika Cinta Bertasbih", karya Habiburrahman El-Shirazy

Of dreams and Cairo

2007-12-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

It is interesting how dreams could sometimes come with startling storylines. Of how suddenly you may even see your own family and friends inside, appearing in often a mixture of real and imaginary characters and places. Although that very fact could actually be scary if you ask me. ‘Cos if I did experience having familiar faces emerging inside my own, chances are I might (unknowingly) surfaced inside others too? *Oh dear..* >_<

Just as how there was this one incident 3 years back as my friends and I were in class mugging for the O-levels, when out of the blue Hannah exclaimed, “Diyana!! I actually dreamt that you were already someone’s fiancée last night!” A whattt?? Mak uihh siangnye :P But we had a good laugh over it. Hehe. So yeah.. just hope there’s no bad stuffs whatsoever, only nice ones if we do appear in other’s sleep eh? Ameen ameen~

Talking about this.. just recently a stranger with a songkok did turn up in mine. No face I could recall of, but surprisingly his name did last in my mind till now. Sunardi, it was. Yes, probably Indonesian. :D What made it so striking was perhaps because his character was really gentlemanly; what with his gentle voice and calm persona, concerned enough to stop by and ask nicely if I needed any help after my fall right in front of Causeway Point >_< Aisey.. What an encounter. Then just when I entered a bus and turned around, the doors closed before he could even manage to get inside. Now, why was I feeling sad when the bus took me far far away? ‘Cos maybe.. such a feeling rarely settles inside, it’s a lil saddening when it’s taken away, even if it’s only a dream? O_o Hmmm…

Oh cut it out now diy. Heh. =P But but! I thought someone by that name didn’t actually exist, but a quick google search (was all enthusiastic to try) eventually led me to this picture of a Pak Ahmad Sunardi, an Indonesian Maestro in Keroncong Music. Waaah! hehe :D Guess maybe too much of reading novels in Bahasa Indonesia had put an effect on me since my last infatuation with Pak Habiburrahman El-Shirazy’s “Ketika Cinta Bertasbih”.

El-Sultan Hassan Mosque and El-Refai Mosque, Cairo – Egypt by Muhammad Eissa

Set in a similar scenario of Al-Azhar university students just like in his previous novel “Ayat-Ayat Cinta”, what’s amazing is that not only were there one main narrator in the story, but there are nearly 5 lead characters telling their own accounts interchangeably which I personally found them very much inspirational. Khairul Azzam, Fadhil, Anna Althafunnisa, Furqan & Cut Malahayati.. it’s hard not to be moved by their endearing qualities as good Muslims and full of youthful drive and aspirations! Am definitely much enthused just by reading those very passages. Kept a collection of their quotes safe for future remembrance too (:

I like the fact that through encountering good reads such as this one, do prompt me to go into introspection stage more frequently and take a fresh viewpoint to revive oneself. Reminding of life’s true purpose, back to consciousness, onward to full strength. Now I’m all the more of a determined idealist, wouldn’t mind seeing myself as someone independent who’s willing to strive hard for what she believes ought to fight for. Alhamdulillah, nothing’s futile (at this moment) like matters of love are clouding my head. Allah knows best when that one will come at just the appropriate time. But true enough, I’ll need to go through this one step at a time, learn as much as I go on ahead, and try to live life as how it should best be. May Allah ease the path..

The Heart's Longing

2007-12-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

"Oh dear.. they’re scheduled at night.." Saddens me really when the search finally bears fruit, but only to find that the classes mostly start at 8pm, on the eastern side of Singapore. Adeih. Guess I’ll have to let them go – even though the heart is sooo intent on joining along. Lest I would risk coming home close to midnight after the return journey for a west-side resider like me. Hmm. Not quite appropriate for a sister ain’t it. Not to mention the safety issue if one’s alone too =|

But then again, it’s understandable why it may be arranged that way. To be more feasible for working adults could be one thing. So.. what’s best for majority insyaAllah I could still accept that fact; although I would have to try explore others that can nicely fit into my curfew time – to be home latest by 9 :D So keep on searching diy~ Hope I’ll find them!

Time and again I do wonder how it feels like to get to attend an Usrah once in a while. The thought of having a close-knitted group of sisters, bounded strong by one heartfelt purpose, to mutually support and be reminded of Allah, always. :) With much encouragement and caring words, with the sincere sisterly love that blooms throughout and definitely the insightful sharings.. subhanAllah! Wouldn’t That be a nice soul-filling session~

Because seriously, for a 9-to-5 poly life here followed by a daily essay assignment taking up till late night, it’ll not be long before a pang of yearning could soon hit one hard. For yours truly, that would be the momentary lapse of heartache, signaling a need for respite from all things tying me down. The worldly issues, the tiredness.. It just makes me longing for faith-enriching Islamic inputs all the more from madrasah days. =( And makes me think of the time I have in hand too…

Stunning beauty... An Islamic architecture mosaic by Monika N.

Ahaa here's a good news! There’s now a recently launched IslamicEvents.sg which truly could help seekers in the knowledge pursuit too. "A brainchild of three NUS undergraduates, it promises to deliver complete information only about Islamic events that's happening in Singapore, all in one portal." Comes complete with email notifications for those who subscribe to the free mailing list as well! Alhamdulillah. May Allah bless them well for the hard work they’ve put in. :)

Oh yes! Other alternatives could also include newfound audio recordings by Abu ‘Ammar ibn Ibrahim from some of the Asatizah I love listening to! Simply plug in to those mp3 players/handphones and you can learn on the go.. Includes those by Dr. Mohd Asri bin Zainul Abidin, Ustaz Hasrizal Abdul Jamil, Ustaz Maszlee Malik, Dr. Juanda Jaya and Ustaz Zahazan Mohamed. Best!~ ^_^

So should the chance to attend classes haven't come knocking yet, fret not aite? We could still fill up the time with whatever ways possible in the meanwhile insyaAllah.. *reminds self hehe* Have a blessed learning journey ahead! =)

"Seek knowledge, because seeking it for the sake of Allah is worship. And knowing it makes you more God-fearing; and searching for it is jihad, teaching it to those who do not know is charity, reviewing and learning it more is like tasbeeh..." [Fatawa Ibn Taymiyyah vol.10, p.39]

Back Again .. for now

2007-12-21T16:49:00.000-08:00

*Sound of footsteps; Diy slowly enters*

Assalamu 'alaina wa 'ala 'ibadillahi as-soliheen! Waduh.. dah berbulan-bulan terbiar benor tempat ni. Hmm. Shifting back to writing mode just feels a lil bit different. Well, perhaps this might just take time getting used to it again yeah Diy? Gets rusty here somewhere from the lack of use.. :P

Though being busy (very busy at that) is the most common reason one could simply use not to blog, somehow it's hard not to deny that leaving this space for a while did bring some relief to the mounting priorities. But still, alhamdulillah, life's a bliss & a constant strive at the moment. Am grateful that now I could finally allow myself some time to update after finishing a 7000-word final year project report. Thank You Allah! ^_^

For a start, I guess a splash of colors and pictures would do good to liven up the mood here abit. What with graduation looming really near ahead in just about 2 months, here goes a couple of snapshots since Ramadhan till Syawal with my RP Malay Cultural Group friends.. One thing similar – all went traditional in Baju Kurong! yayy~ :D In chronological order: MCG Iftar, Exco Photoshoot for RP Open House, MCG Hari Raya Celebration and lastly the 'Eid Visiting itself with my exco dearies.. Ooh these would surely bring fond memories in the future.

Of Parenthood..

2007-07-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

"Akak akak! A mother-to-be over there!" Can't help myself but to nudge2 my sister Nadiah when we passed by a pregnant lady on our way. And the same thing happens when it comes to seeing babies with pinchable cheeks! Eyes fixed in delight for a few seconds watching them. Hehe… Guess most ladies do share such similar sentiments. Come to think of it, little girls have always been given baby dolls for their playtime too.. a nurturing instinct that comes naturally since young? I believe so.. ((:

And just as I was waiting at the bus-stop the other day, a Muslimah came with a baby stroller and another hand holding her toddler securely. And as usual, liking to secretly observe how young mothers care for their children, I then started to notice something quite different. The mother seemed to be communicating with both her 4 year-old daughter and infant mostly with facial expressions and soft hand gestures, but of course never lacking in showing her tenderness and affection. And as we board the same bus, later did I realize that she was actually hearing-impaired and wasn't able to speak. masyaAllah… my heart really quivered at that point of time.. am definitely struck amazed with her strength of motherhood! Heart was touched deeply indeed.. ^_^

The incident did set me thinking on how the mother teaches and guides her children.. sure would be inspiring to be able to know them. (: 'Cos I do recognize how challenging the task is even for normal parents. Imagine the power of our very actions to greatly influence the little ones' upbringing! Definitely a big responsibility that comes with the bundle of happiness. Ya Allah.. I could never thank You enough for blessing me with my two wonderful parents. Raising three daughters with abundance of care and protection, helping us to grow in a much supportive Islamic setting and understanding.. It's beyond my imagination how they manage to do it for all these years. And seeing the video below till the end moved me strongly to tears.. and strengthen my love for them even more.. :') Dear Allah.. Do guide me to follow well in their footsteps..

P/S: Suddenly thought of some names like Zayd Hamzah & Faiz Husni, Farah Murshidah & Sarah Sakeenah for twin baby boys and girls.. Wheee~ Heheh =D

Poem: My Way Back

2007-07-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

There was a young girl, she loved Allah.
She didn't know why, just how much.
She talked to Him when she was lonely,
Knowing He was the One and Only.

She thought of Allah as her best Friend,
And knew He'd listen until The End.
She wanted to please Him and do what's right,
and be surrounded by His light.

But as this bud grew into a flower,
She realized people too have power.
Power to cloud your way of thinking,
And soon she felt her Iman sinking.

Although on the outside she went along,
On the inside she was still strong.
She knew Allah was just waiting,
For the right time for her awakening..

Alhamdulillah, the love for Him was always there.
Although it was in need of repair.
One day she decided to make her Hajj.
And make Allah her only Judge.

So a New Muslim she became,
And again began to praise His name.

I thank Allah from the bottom of my heart,
And thank the Teacher that gave me my new start.
May Allah bless you, you know who you are.
You have my Dua, whether I'm near or far.

"Ya Allah, keep me on the straight path,
And not the way that earns Your wrath.
Forgive me for the mistakes I've made,
Let me walk with patience, on the path You've laid.
Help keep my intention to please only You.
And keep my Iman as it was, when I was new."

~ by Ameena Ansari, USA

from IslamicPoetry.org [ Click here for more ]

The Changemakers

2007-07-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

If the word "creativity" is ever mentioned, I must say that one of the first things which pop up in my head would be to associate it with designers and businessmen. Although of course, others who are not in this line no doubt possess such a powerful trait too! But seeing the works of the two professions above could leave me gaping in awe. "How did they do that??" Wow… I wonder what inventive ideas are brewing inside them.

I once found a book sitting nicely at the library's bookshelf, of which the title Social Entrepreneurship and Changemakers did grab my attention there. Sigh. Too bad my account's already full then so didn't manage to borrow a copy. But the keywords did make me go on a speedy google search with loads of references to look into. Hmmm. Very Interesting~ Wikipedia reads, "A social entrepreneur is someone who recognizes a social problem and uses entrepreneurial principles to organize, create, and manage a venture to make social change." Simply said, a pioneer of innovation benefiting humanity! Really quite a big leap of effort to undertake yeh? But reading up on extraordinary figures who succeeded in making a large-scale positive impact on people, it just leaves me all the more inspired by the second. (:

Suddenly recalled a speech by Bro Helmy Isa from FMSA during an Exco Leadership Camp here at RP.. Reminding on the responsibility that lies on our shoulders to help the society. Very moving masyaAllah! Really hope I could attend more of his talks if there's any. Best! ^_^ And a publication by the local Muslim Trust Fund Association from June 2006 also notes of the increasingly high number of those who require our assistance and thoughtful actions..

Jumlah pemohon yang datang untuk mendapatkan bantuan kewangan semakin bertambah setiap hari. Jika biasanya mereka yang dibantu itu ialah golongan fakir dan miskin, orang-orang tua yang uzur, cacat anggota dan sebagainya tetapi apa yang dihadapi MTFA hari ini ialah ibu-ibu muda dan ibu-ibu tunggal yang bermasalah. Kebanyakan masalah yang dihadapi oleh ibu-ibu tersebut itu ialah masalah menyara hidup seharian akibat perceraian atau suami mereka yang masih muda dan tidak mempunyai pekerjaan tetap.

Wondering what the 8 icons above signify? Those are actually the Millennium Development Goals put together during a United Nations Millennium Summit back in 2000, of a pledge to work together to make a better world for all by 2015. Clicking on the individual icons on its webpage do give a good highlight on some of the worrying issues there are now. Like for example, Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger...

"Imagine: Waking up each morning without enough food to eat, without clean water to drink, without health care or a home. Fact: More than 1 billion people live on less than $1 a day."

How truly lucky we are not to be under such situations. But this calls for our much needed service in lending a hand too yeh? Nevermind if the action begins small; 'cos it still is a valuable deed in the eyes of Allah. =) Joining hands with others who have the same passion does magnify the strength too! As one of the youth organisations here focusing on humanitarian efforts, Nur Ikhwan certainly is a noteworthy team that you may want to consider joining for a start ;)

And how amazing it really felt seeing the huge number of sisters and brothers from different youth groups and student societies across Singapore, coming together in a single event to assist in volunteering for Saff Perdaus' Ramadhan Rocks last year. Knowing that the hearts are fixed on a sole mission, prayers built on longing and working hard for Allah's mercy together on those days of Ramadhan, it was definitely a memorable experience that still remains intact with me.. :))

Big plans, big hopes, may Allah guide us through..

"For Muslim men and women, for believing men and women, for devout men and women,
for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women
who humble themselves, for men and women who give in Charity, for men and women who fast,
for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise,
for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward."

~ Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 35

The Growing Up years...

2007-07-03T18:24:00.000-07:00

It puzzles me sometimes when people tried to guess my age. 'Cos the response which I get varied greatly. Most said I look 20-ish, an uncle thought I was 23, and by far one of the most shocking was when an Insurance Agent suddenly stopped me in my tracks while walking at Jurong East Interchange, asking how many children have I already had. Adoii. First question pulak tuh. -____- "Hmm.. U sure you're 19 Diy?" "Oh yes I am!"

Hehe. Okay never mind all that. Guess still being a child-at-heart doesn't go in line with how I may portray myself outside. =P Anyways, last Thursday Ibu brought us three sisters and dear younger cousin Faiqah to IMM for a few rounds of window-shopping and the actual spree for stocking kitchen foodstuff at Giant superstore. And my oh my… It's been a long time since I last get a plushie for free! And a super adorable one at that! Thank you so much Ibu… <3 ^_^ Didn't usually buy soft toys on a regular basis, perhaps once in a while only those which really catch my eye like these palm-sized Superman and Spiderman Mashi Maro. Ahh.. uber cute. How nice if I could one day transform them into a Pendekar in Silat attire / apple green baju kurong / or an Arabian warrior complete with a white & gold suit and turban. =P

On a different note, the thought of orphans sprung to mind when my friend 'Arafah mentioned about this in her blog. Recently came across an Islamic Relief website too on the subject of sponsoring one (there's a total of 20,000 orphans in 21 countries worldwide currently under the program) [Click Here]. And browsing through Darul Ihsan's and Darul Ma'wa's homepage instantly made me wonder of how the growing up years may be for them.. Going through different experiences, seeing life through the eyes of a child.. masyaAllah. Truly a humbling account in teaching one's heart to be more compassionate and grateful. Pondered for a while on how we could possibly render our help for them.. with continuous support to look after their emotional and spiritual needs being part of it, a twice a month visit at least for a start? wAllahu'alam. Definitely in need of a better plan. Hope the precious young souls are safe in Allah's care right now.. ameen ya Rahman.

But one thing for sure, I do applaud the initiatives run by the local organizations here in taking care of the children's welfare. Darul Ihsan for example, operates two separate orphanages for housing boys and girls, while having an educational financial aid scheme where orphans not staying at the orphanage receive monthly financial assistance. Alhamdulillah.. May Allah places the generous souls among those who receive His Forgiveness and Mercy in this world and the hereafter.. Let's try to do our part too ye? InsyaAllah. =))

The Prophet (may peace be upon him) said:

"I and the person who looks after an orphan will be in Paradise together like this..." - then he raised his forefinger and middle finger together. (Hadith Bukhari)

Novel Pilihan: PPC

2007-07-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

Sedang mendengar: Kupinang engkau dengan Al-Quran - Gradasi

"Kuakui ada satu nama yang membuatku selalu bergetar bila mendengarnya, namun tak lebih dari itu. Aku tidak pernah berusaha merindukannya. Dan tak akan pernah kuizinkan diriku merindukannya. Karena aku merasa itu sia-sia. Aku tak mau melakukan hal yang sia-sia dan membuang tenaga. Aku lebih memilih mencurah seluruh rindu dendam, haru biru rindu dan deru cintaku untuk belajar dan mendekati Al-Qur'an..." ~ Fahri bin Abdullah Shiddiq

MasyaAllah. Tiap kali novel Habiburrahman El-Shirazy dapat ana capai dan nikmati dengan penuh debar, pasti kesan yang ditinggalkan ialah rasa yang cukup membahagiakan sekali! Kisahnya selalu aja membuat pembaca ingin terus perbaiki diri lagi. Tambahan pula dengan hero dan heroine-nya mukmin yang soleh dan solehah.. aduh. Andai hati ini bisa cair, pasti laju ia mengalir~ hehe

Pudarnya Pesona Cleopatra (PPC) ada mengandungi 2 mini novel - PPC dan Setitis Embun Cinta Niyala. Dua2 tak kurang hebatnya! Dan kalau dahulunya dalam buku Ayat-Ayat Cinta ada watak utama Fahri, yang ini ditampilkan pula Muhammad Faiq bin Saiful Anam dalam cerita yang kedua. Dan persamaan yang dapat ana lihat di dalam hero2 Pak Habiburrahman ialah, hati mereka sungguh dekat dengan al-Quran.. Mengagumkan! =)

Terngiang-ngiang ungkapan dari PPC di fikiran ana.. "Di zaman moden seperti ini, mencari gadis solehah lebih susah daripada mencari perempuan cantik." Allahu Akbar. Sisters tersayang, sama2 kita usahakan untuk terus men"solehah"kan diri ye? Bukan sekadar untuk memiliki pasangan yang soleh, namun yang terpenting untuk mendapatkan cinta Tuhan selamanya.. ameen insyaAllah.

"Jam loceng di kamarnya berdering kuat. Lalu mati. Dia mendengar suara derit pintu. Lalu kecipak air. Ia menatap jam dinding. Pukul tiga. Tidak lama kemudian, dia mendengar suara alunan ayat-ayat suci al-Quran. Suara itu begitu jernih, fasih, tartil dan indah. Menyentuh hati siapa yang mendengarnya. Setelah empat tahun abangnya berada di Mesir, semakin indah bacaan al-Qurannya. Ah, abang Faiq, dalam keadaan letih dari perjalanan yang jauh, masih juga bangun tengah malam. Alangkah bahagianya siapa yang menjadi isterimu. Setiap malam boleh solat tahajjud bersama. Menangis bersama di hadapan Allah. Lalu anak-anakmu sesekali diajak ikut serta. Rumahmu penuh cahaya Qurani. Baunya harum wangi kasturi. Alangkah indahnya..." ~ Setitis Embun Cinta Niyala

Ya Allah.. hati ini ku cuba 'tuk menutup dengan rapat, agar ia tidak terpaut pada sesiapa dengan mudahnya.. namun kurniakanlah rasa sayang di dalamnya hanya tika waktu dan pilihan yang Engkau tetapkan, ialah yang terbaik buatku suatu saat nanti..

Untukmu wanita..

2007-06-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

"Wipe away your tears, think well of your Lord, and chase away your worries by remembering the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon you..

Do not think that this world is ever perfect for anyone. There is no one on the face of the earth who gets all that he wants or is free from all kinds of distress..

Extinguish the flames of hatred from your heart, by forgiving everyone who has ever hurt you..

Daisies just look real sweeet~ ^_^

With your beauty, you are better than the sun; with your morals you are more sublime than musk; with your modesty you are nobler than the full moon; with your compassion you are more beneficial than rain. So, preserve your beauty with faith, your tranquility with contentment, your chastity with hijab.

Remember that your adornment is not gold, silver or diamonds, rather, it is your prayers, going thirsty when you fast for Allah, concealed charity which no one knows except Him, hot tears that wash away sin, a lengthy prostration born of utter submission to Allah, shyness before Allah when the inclination to do evil overwhelms you. Clothe yourself with the garments of taqwa (piety) for you are the most beautiful woman in the world even if your clothes are shabby.. "

~ Dr. 'Aidh bin Abdullah al-Qarni

Sad to say goodbye…

2007-06-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Listening to: You're the Inspiration – Chicago

It's sure is hard. To meet and part. Will surely miss seeing Miss Florence Cai and Mr John Low after they leave RP soon.. two of my most wonderful facilitators cum FYP supervisors here. Very nice people really.. Miss Cai with her ever sweet self and generous with her sharing of knowledge, and Mr Low who never fails to make us pleased with his amusing wittiness yet very articulate with his insights.

Do enjoy coming for her Genetics and Medical Technology classes a year back.. and both been guiding us well with our project through the first moments. Still remember the time when she bought a packaged halal Yu Sheng delicacy during Chinese New Year for us students to get a taste of it. Real thoughtful~ ^_^

And a final meet just now was very inspirational too. Encouraging words of advice as a parting note definitely. Both spurred us on to continue improving ourselves, gave tips on applying for universities & scholarships.. and no doubt those must-have group pictures together. Farewell & take care Sensei! Wish you all the best!

Some last words from Miss Cai to all of us… A special email that I'll definitely keep for memories.

"Do remember that in life, there will be always ups and downs… there will also always be times where you are in situations that you have no control over… just do your best so that you will not have any regrets later in life. Remember… there will always be light at the end of the tunnel… so do have faith that when things look gloomy at present… it will turn out well eventually.

Believe in it and it will be so. All of you have got potential to do really well in life! Do identify which areas you would like to proceed on in life and strive towards your goals. :) Do think through your decisions and make sound decisions, be it big decisions that will impact your life directly or even smaller decisions such as contributing in class and all. I wish all of you...

All the best in all you do!
May your journey of learning in life be a fruitful and exciting one!
Take care and God Bless!"

Al-fauz was sa'adah~

2007-06-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

It's nice seeing the very first designs of graduation robes from the different polytechnics.. and when the seniors adorn them dashingly, eyes glistening bright with delight and fulfillment.. Best wishes to all fresh graduates! =)

Am moved by the merry mood too it seems. Thus the simple collage created below after getting abit enthusiastic there looking at the robes from their websites. Nanyang Poly looks the nicest yeh? ^_^ And I think for some others, the person who wears it is the one who makes the robe looks nice. hehe

Syukur alhamdulillah, the much loved family were all there to witness Kak Nadiah walking calmly onstage to receive the scroll at her Ngee Ann Polytechnic. And it's really touching too seeing Ayah and Ibu holding back the tears.. Couldn't stop myself from beaming ever so widely. Am very very happy and proud of you, my dearest ukhti.. Definitely a moment to remember.

And may Allah reward you well Along for being there with us and kindly taking the family picture! The photographer of the day! =D As quoted from Kak Nadiah: "It's a story of the faraway sisters and their long lost big brother. Truly an Along to us in the highest regard. He's like our brother by blood although we're not siblings at all." =)

Update on the Ummah

2007-06-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Life in the Territories - The Arab Legion

Hmmm. Reading Sis Liyana's entry on her experience from attending the Trainer Da'wah and Course Dialogue workshop in her semester 2 at International Islamic University Malaysia, reallly puts me in a wishful state now. I want to be there too.. huhu. >_< Could imagine the great joy brewing in me with all the knowledge-filled discussions on Islam going around.. And the delight from meeting new Muslim sisters and brothers from different walks of life. How amazing could that be?

Reminds me of the Muslim Youth Intelligentsia Series reading circles and seminars by NUS Muslim Society and Young AMP I once had the chance to go to last year. Deeply miss all the sharings and lecture notes for the readings definitely.. =( Dear Allah hope there'll be such wonderful sessions in the near future..

Meanwhile, a speaker I heard over the radio at IKIM.fm alerted me when he readily pointed something about being attentive. The direct translation for that in Malay could also be "Berikan Perhatian" such as when a Teacher told her students to pay attention. And this is not merely hearing and looking into the subject matter, but to listen carefully and ponder upon it well with one's heart and mind (As the word PerHatian has a Hati = Heart in it ). Interesting eh?

And to be concerned and continuosly update oneself on the current status of the Ummah, comes under the need to be attentive as well, he said. For to be concerned it shows that we care, and caring is but a sign of love; a deep sense of endearing attachment among the believers around the world..

"No two men love one another, but the better of them is the one whose love for his brother is greater." [Reported by Bukhari in al-Adab al-Mufrad]

And another note of interest, there's going to be the International Islamic Fair 2007 at Putra World Trade Centre KL this coming 27th to 29th July! Nak giiii.. tapi cuti dabes. >_< The conference looks promising too.. Centred on the theme of Peace & Unity. Session 1: Update on the Ummah. Session 2: Business, Economy & Finance. Session 3: Human Relation, Media & Global Peace. Session 4: Community, Arts & Education.

Especially like to know the Session 1 topics in question. But seeing that I (sadly) couldn't be there.. guess the titles still help to guide me in exploring the issues. Will post the links to the findings here if I come across any, insyaAllah.

Namanya Fahri, Fahri bin Abdullah Shiddiq (:

2007-06-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

Dan.. cinta terasa ada. Bukan seperti yang selalu sahaja terjadi, dalam hubungan kekasih muda berpacar-pacaran. Tiada bersentuhan tangan, tiada berdua-duaan.. Sungguh malang andai ikatan yang seharusnya murni itu justeru menyebabkan terjadinya maksiat kecil mahupun besar..

Namun di sisi Fahri, terbit ketulusan dan kesungguhan untuk mempertahankan cinta suci di dunia dan akhirat. Begitu indah dan penuh barakah. Menikah – itulah jalannya. Kerna insan beriman yang benar-benar menjaga kesucian cinta itu, dari saat mula hingga akhir, dialah yang akan dapat merasakan kenikmatan luar biasa dari sebuah pernikahan. Sedalam-dalam kasih penuh keredhaan Tuhan. Dan itulah kiranya cinta sejati yang kita semua dambakan ((:

SubhanAllah. Tidak pernah ana rasakan seperti ini. Dalam kagum dan terpesona, terhadap seorang watak dalam novel! :D Aduh... Gimana nih? Hehe. Tapi memang benar, dengan peribadi yang sebegitu soleh dan cukup indah sekali, dengan tutur bahasanya yang halus dan kedekatannya dengan Al-Quran, jelas tidak menghairankan andai Fahri disayangi sehingga 4 gadis! Siapapun bisa terpaut hati.. betul tak bedek! Kak Nadiah pun sama. Hehe!

Note: Klik http://sinariee.multiply.com/journal/item/41 untuk download novel Ayat-ayat Cinta dalam file pdf ye! Tapi mungkin ianya dalam bahasa asal Indonesia. Yang ana baca kelmarin dalam versi Bahasa Melayu.

Dan ciri-ciri yang Aisyah isterinya inginkan best jugak sebagai panduan: Suami yang sepenuh hati mencintainya, menjadikan dirinya satu-satunya isterinya, setia dalam suka dan duka, perhatian pada keluarga, dan tidak melalaikan tugas berjuang di jalan Allah. =)

"Bidadariku,
Namamu tak terukir
Dalam catitan harianku
Asal usulmu tak hadir
Dalam diskusi kehidupanku
Wajah wujudmu tak terlukis
Dalam sketsa mimpi-mimpiku
Indah suaramu tak terakam
Dalam pita batinku
Namun kau hidup mengaliri
Pori-pori cinta dan semangatku
Sebab
Kau adalah hadiah agung
Dari Tuhan
Untukku
Bidadariku...

Seorang perempuan solehah yang akan jadi bidadariku, yang akan aku cintai sepenuh hati dalam hidup dan mati, yang akan aku harapkan jadi teman seperjuangan menyulam masa depan, dan meniti jalan Ilahi, itu siapa? Aku tak tahu. Ia masih berada dalam alam ghaib yang belum dibukakan oleh Tuhan untukku. Jika waktunya tiba semuanya akan terang. Hadiah agung dari Tuhan itu akan datang." ~ Fahri bin Abdullah.

Moga kau kan hadir, suatu saat nanti.. belahan jiwa yang akan mendampingi hidupku. insyaAllah. (: