How does one remain positive in a world with so many trials and tribulations?

One of the most comforting surahs in the Qur’an is Surat Al-Duha. The simple promise from Allah – that what is to come shall be better than what has passed – is an eternal source of hope in what is often a challenging world. Within the short few verses there seems to be a sort of covenant – addressed to the Prophet pbuh and to all Muslims by corollary: Allah’s bounty is limitless, Allah shall give you, and you shall be pleased.

“وَلَسَوْفَ يُعْطِيكَ رَبُّكَ فَتَرْضَىٰ “

“Your Lord will give you, and you will be pleased.” (93:5)

But Allah points our attention to three commands: Oppress not the orphan; scold not the needy and be grateful for the blessings of Allah through action.

Al-Qurtubi mentions that orphans are indicative here of those who are marginalized, abandoned by people; and whose plight is forgotten. And it is to those who we owe the greatest duty. Those who have no help other than from Allah. Some call this ‘relief’, some may call it ‘helping the oppressed’. But we ought to call it what Allah taught us to call it: Giving thanks to Allah for what he has blessed us with through action and self-sacrifice.

Helping those in need is a core part of our understanding of the deen, and today there are many such people, and many such communities.

The recent Earthquake in Turkey and Syria brought immense devastation to so many people. Alhamdulillah our community has responded positively to MAC’s campaign to raise funds and supplies across the country, and have generously supported our other relief organizations directly. The need remains great, and we must collectively strive to do more. This includes our continued dua for the martyrs, the injured and their families.

Closer to home, there was some positive news. Our Parliament has endorsed a motion to help resettle 10,000 Uyghurs in Canada. MP Sameer Zuberi led the effort that recognizes the great hardships endured by Uyghurs. This is a result of the relentless advocacy of Sameer, as well as the many advocacy efforts in the community by organizations like Justice for All. In addition to resettling these refugees, we must continue to raise awareness about the ongoing injustices by the Chinese government and demand our government to do more.

The fight against oppression, and for people forgotten by others is long and difficult. But if we stay the path and fight the fight for those in need, we hold on to those beautiful promises of Allah: what is to come shall be better than what has past, and Allah will give us, and we will be pleased.

“فَإِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا إِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا”

“Indeed, hardship comes with ease, indeed, hardship comes with ease” (94:5-6)

Abdullatif Bakbak

MAC President-Executive