“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It’s not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson

We are living in a time where complying to social norms, or ‘fitting in’ so to speak, is not only accepted, but is favoured. People are so scared to do something outside the box…to be themselves…to be different. Why? Because in doing so it attracts ‘unwanted’ attention, making us vulnerable and open to critique. In a world where people are so engrossed in the lives of others, it’s about time we started to focus on ourselves. We all talk about the importance of giving back to our communities, but how can we expect to achieve that when we can’t even build our own characters. The first step is to know that each and every one of us deserves to be the best versions of ourselves – spiritually, physically and mentally. After all Allah says in Surah Ar-Ra’d:

“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Qur’an 13:11)

Every single one of us has spoken about how our society needs to change, yet when we are called upon to act, very few of us rise to the occasion. In fact far too often I have seen talented individuals question their purpose. Why am I doing the work that I am doing? Why am I in this role? But let me answer these questions by asking you another. Did Allah put you in your position just for the sake of it? Or did He put you where you are so that you can achieve your full potential? When you start standing up for what you believe in…actually no, let me change that. When you start BELIEVING IN YOURSELF, that’s when you start having a purpose. After all, purpose is the reason we’re on this journey, and our passion for what we do is what lights our way. So be like the sun and shine even if no-one ever thanks you for it. Because when you start naturally shining, you automatically light the way for others to follow suit.

This is a reminder for myself first and foremost.

Ya Allah,

Give us the tawfeeq to become better leaders,
Give us the wisdom to understand ourselves and those around us,
Give us the ability to reserve judgment, and stand shoulder to shoulder together as one Ummah,
Give us the insight to be aware of and manage our emotions effectively,
Give us the strength and resource to pull through challenging times,
Give us clarity in our sense of purpose and vision,
Give us the integrity and honesty to be just in our decision making and to not abuse the power you have given us,
Give us the skill to present effectively and inspire others.

Ameen

By Yasmine Oumellil