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Yet One more Political Sacrifice!
Why Every Person in Your Life is a Lesson
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But what if they're not? What if every single
individual, every fleeting connection, every profound relationship, serves a
deeper, divinely appointed purpose?
The truth, beautifully articulated in ancient wisdom, suggests that the people who come into our lives are not mere accidents; they are orchestrated moves of destiny, guided by the wisdom of our Creator (Allah). They are not random footnotes but crucial, often pivotal chapters in our personal story, each serving a profound purpose in the grand design of our development. They are the teachers, the catalysts, the healers, and sometimes, the very wounds that shape us, all part of a larger, benevolent plan.
The Power of No: Reclaiming Your Time, Energy, and Self-Worth
This endless accommodation, while seemingly kind, can unfortunately lead to a dangerous pattern. People, whether consciously or not, can begin to exploit your accommodating nature. They see your willingness to help as an open invitation to offload their responsibilities or demands onto you. For example, at work, you might become the default person for last-minute tasks or projects that aren't truly yours, leaving you stressed and overworked while your colleagues enjoy a more balanced workload. In your personal life, friends might consistently ask for rides, favours, or even emotional support, seeing your time and energy as a resource they can freely tap into. The consequence? You end up feeling used and undervalued—like a "mug"—with your self-worth slowly eroding, replaced by nagging resentment and profound exhaustion.
Learning to say "no" is not an act of selfishness; it is a fundamental act of self-preservation and self-respect. It’s about establishing healthy boundaries and creating the essential space you need to thrive, rather than just survive. To begin, first understand your "why." What precisely are you protecting by saying "no"? Is it your mental health, your personal goals, your physical energy, or your precious free time? When you are clear on your "why," it becomes significantly easier to stand firm in your decision. Start practicing in low-stakes situations; for instance, decline a simple invitation to an event you're not enthusiastic about, or politely say you can't help with a minor favour. The more you practice, the more natural and empowering it will feel.
When you do say "no," strive to be direct and concise. You don't owe anyone a lengthy explanation or an elaborate excuse. A polite yet firm, "I appreciate you asking, but I can't take that on right now" or "That doesn't work for me" is perfectly acceptable. It's crucial to remember that you are saying "no" to a specific request, not to the person themselves. Your value as a friend, colleague, or family member is not, and should not be, tied to your ability to fulfil every single demand placed upon you. The first few times you assert this boundary might feel uncomfortable, and that's entirely normal. Acknowledge that feeling, but don't let it deter you. That initial discomfort will gradually lessen with practice, ultimately being replaced by a profound sense of confidence and empowerment. By learning to strategically say "no," you reclaim your life, protect your well-being, and create the vital space you truly deserve to flourish.
Srebrenica: A Haunting Echo in a World Still Bleeding
Today, July 11th, marks Srebrenica Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion to honour the more than 8,000 Muslim men and boys systematically murdered in July 1995 by Bosnian Serb forces. This horrific act, declared a genocide by international courts, stands as a stark reminder of humanity's capacity for unimaginable cruelty and the catastrophic consequences of unchecked hatred.
The peaceful rows of white gravestones at the Potočari
Memorial Centre bear witness to the brutal efficiency with which lives were
extinguished, families shattered, and a community devastated. Srebrenica was
not an "accident of history"; it was the horrifying culmination of
policies, propaganda, and, crucially, international indifference. "Never
again," we vowed after the Holocaust, and again after Rwanda. Yet, the
chilling reality is that "Never again" continues to be a
promise repeatedly broken.
As we mark the 30th anniversary of Srebrenica in 2025, the echoes of that genocide reverberate with unsettling clarity in our current global climate. Far from being relegated to the history books, the spectre of massacres, ethnic cleansing, and genocidal acts continues to haunt communities around the world.
The Enduring Spirit: Lessons from Karbala and Modern Tragedies
The story of Karbala, a tragic and pivotal event in Islamic history, resonates with profound lessons of faith, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to justice. It is a narrative that, despite occurring over a thousand years ago, continues to offer solace and strength to those facing immense hardship in our own times.
At the heart
of Karbala lies the sacrifice of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad
(peace be upon him), and his valiant companions. In the scorching desert of
Karbala, they faced an overwhelming army, driven by a thirst for power and a
blatant disregard for Islamic principles. Imam Hussain's stand was not for
worldly gain, but for the very essence of justice, truth, and the preservation
of the Prophet's legacy.
The difficulties, trials, and tribulations faced by Imam Hussain and his family were unimaginable. They were denied water for days, surrounded by enemies, and subjected to immense psychological and physical torment. Children withered from thirst, families were torn apart, and the prospect of survival diminished with each passing moment. Yet, amidst this horrific ordeal, their patience and perseverance shone through. Their faith in the Creator, Allah, remained unshakeable. They faced death not with despair, but with dignity, seeing their suffering as a path to eternal truth and a testament to their unwavering commitment to their Lord.
Double Standards in UK Policing: Eroding Public Trust
The recent, disturbing incident in Tower Hamlets, where a pro-Palestine activist was subjected to brutal police force, is a stark reminder of the deep-rooted issues within UK policing. While it’s a particularly egregious example, it's far from isolated. A pattern of disproportionate force, particularly against marginalized communities, has eroded public trust and demands urgent attention.
Another Day, Another Outrage: Police Brutality at
Manchester Airport
On Tuesday 23 July 2024, yet another shocking incident of police brutality unfolded at Manchester Airport, further eroding public trust in law enforcement. A video circulating on social media captured a police officer using excessive force, kicking a man in the head while simultaneously tasering him. The officer then proceeded to kick a second individual in the body. These actions are utterly reprehensible and demand immediate investigation.
A Celebration of Vibrancy: Exploring South Asian Heritage Month
July is South Asian Heritage Month, a time to delve into the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and traditions that define this incredible region. Spanning countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, South Asia boasts a dazzling diversity, yet a shared thread of heritage binds them together.
A Culinary Adventure
Food is a cornerstone of South Asian culture. Aromatic spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander fill the air, enticing you with the promise of a flavour explosion. From the fluffy rice and creamy dals of India to the melt-in-your-mouth kebabs of Pakistan and the fiery curries of Sri Lanka, South Asian cuisine offers a journey for the taste buds. Don't forget the irresistible street food scene, with its samosas, pakoras, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts like gulab jamun.
Karachi: From Bustling Metropolis to Troubled Megacity
Karachi, the City of Lights, throbs with a vibrant energy that masks a complex past and a present etched with struggle. To understand Karachi is to delve into the layers of history it wears – a mosaic of empires, migrations, economic booms, political turmoil, and resilience.
A City in Transformation
Karachi, Pakistan's largest city, offers a compelling story of
urban transformation, filled with both triumphs and struggles. Once a quaint
fishing village called
Kolachi, it flourished under British rule, becoming a major port city and a
symbol of cosmopolitanism. Following Pakistan's independence in 1947, Karachi
ascended to the status of the nation's capital, a testament to its economic and
cultural significance.
However, the city's fortunes took a dramatic turn in the decades that followed. Today, Karachi grapples with a multitude of issues – crime, violence, ethnic tensions, political instability, and crumbling infrastructure – making it a stark example of the challenges faced by developing megacities.
Silence in the time of genocide
Why are notable Rohingya figures silent about Israel and Gaza?
by: Shafiur Rahman
In the realm of human existence, silence can sometimes be more profound than words. It can echo through the corridors of history, leaving us to ponder the weight of its meaning. Recently, an X/Twitter post from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum stirred a lot of thoughts within me. It spoke about the attack on Israel, but its silence on the Palestinian situation left a glaring void. Specifically, I was left to wonder why there was no mention of Israel's orders for Gaza—an action that Martin Griffiths, head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, described as defying "the rules of war and basic humanity." The absence of commentary on Israel’s plans, which some argue not only violate international humanitarian law but also border on genocidal intent, makes the Museum's silence all the more perplexing.
The NHS at 75: A history of challenges and successes
The National Health Service (NHS) is celebrating its 75th
birthday this year. It is a remarkable institution that has provided free
healthcare to the British people for over seven decades. The NHS has faced many
challenges over the years, but it has also achieved great things.
The NHS was founded in 1948, just after the end of World War
II. At the time, the UK was in a state of economic and social upheaval. The NHS
was created to provide free healthcare to everyone, regardless of their ability
to pay. This was a radical idea at the time, but it was one that was welcomed
by the British people.
The NHS has faced many challenges over the years. In the 1970s, it was hit by a series of financial crises. In the 1980s, it was subjected to a series of reforms by the Conservative government. These reforms led to a decline in morale among staff and the quality of care; and the NHS was accused of being inefficient and bureaucratic.
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