Being an INFJ, you get stuck in your own thoughts a lot – and you don’t actually mind that people will never understand what you feel and why you feel that way because you can see both sides of the coin. You take too long to process and reply as you consider their intentions and their actions, and you also understand your own thoughts and behavior. Because you also know that Allah swt is the one that you can turn to, and that is enough.
When we get into an argument with someone, we know their patterns, and we know we cannot change them – so the only appropriate response is to keep quiet, to ensure our words do not become our sins. But we really do get it.
I have a loved one who loves pushing her wants, or opinions on others. She says it once, twice, many times again and again. It is a characteristic that I dislike, but again, we can never change a person unless they want to themselves. She gets angry when I do not agree with her good intentions that are masked by passive-aggressive demeanor. And I don’t hold it against her, nor am I angry at the situation. I have come to accept the pattern and that this will always be her way.
I continue to hold my tongue because I understand what it is like to be forced to do something even if it is good for you. I have never tried to force her to do the things that she should be doing. The best thing I can do for her is to pray that she receives the hidayah in the best way possible.
I hope that one day, she will understand that it is her actions and words and sindir that disappoint me, but I keep quiet out of respect for Allah and her intentions. I hope that one day, she will realise that I understand her worries and concerns of me, but I will work on it my way at my own pace. I hope that one day, she will be enlightened to know that those worries and concerns are blessings because those tests are how my sins will be forgiven, and that I am grateful to Allah for testing me and giving me this opportunity.
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And isn’t it amazing how He shows you his Rasheed (direction) in the moment you are living in. I actually signed up for a book reflection series that explores trials and challenges in this life, living purposefully and dying prepared.
The course is based on the book, ‘Packing for Your Final Journey’ by Bint Hassan.
Death is something we often push to the back of our minds, yet it is a reality that can come at any moment. When Eid approaches, we work tirelessly to prepare for it. We plan our clothes, our food, our gatherings. We put in so much effort to make sure everything is ready and beautiful for that day.
But sometimes we pause and ask ourselves… do we prepare our hearts with the same care for the one journey that every soul will eventually take? The journey that no one can escape and that is our return to Allah.
This book gently reminds us to reflect on that reality, not to make us feel afraid, but to help us prepare with hope, awareness, and sincerity.1
May these reflections soften our hearts and bring us closer to Allah, insyaAllah.
