We are alive, and there is no rush—but when I absorb Ramadan, I feel like we are alive from the heart too. I know that seeking knowledge of deen, being a talib-e-ilm, is a continuous journey, just like the day we will be resurrected.

One thing I have realized is that we are often idle in our deen, yet we want the highest ranks in Jannah. It’s not wrong to aim for Jannah—it only shows we want something supreme because that is our true home.

But there are layers to reaching that place, and for that, we need to change. We need to reshape ourselves. I have come to feel that being a shape-shifter isn’t bad when it comes to our deen and Allah. To learn, to sacrifice fleeting desires for something eternal—it shows we have high standards, that we know we deserve better. And above all, it shows that we love Allah enough to sacrifice our nafs for Him.

Choosing What Is Best in the Sight of Allah

I recently came across a thought that stayed with me: Allah tests every soul, but the best of souls are those who seek what is best in His sight. If that is the case, then I can sacrifice my happiness and choose what is righteous for the sake of Allah.

May we tie our knots firmly to the rope of Allah.

May we be the famous ones in the eyes of the angels.

May we be among the best people who are discussed by Allah and His angels.

It is not easy. At times, it feels like holding burning hot coal—giving up our favorite food, resisting desires, or letting go of things that pull us away from Him. But in the sight of Allah, the struggle is better.

If It Leads to Allah, It Can Never Fail Us

In the end, nothing is truly best except what brings us closer to Allah. If something leads us to Him, then that act is loved by Him. And if Allah loves it, then it can never fail us.

May Allah make us of those who choose what is loved by Him, no matter how hard it feels.