By Fatima Lin

There are moments in life that settle quietly into the heart, never to be forgotten. This weekend retreat was one of them.

From the very beginning, it didn’t feel like a formal program. It felt like a family gathering—full of warmth, sincerity, and a beautiful sense of belonging. Sisters greeting one another with genuine smiles, helping hands everywhere, and hearts united in remembrance of Allah ﷻ. That kind of connection is rare, and it was a blessing to experience it.

Among all the cherished moments, one stands out in a very personal way.

We had gathered at the beach for zikr, repeating “La Ilaha Illallah” together under the open sky. The sea was calm, the breeze gentle, and the atmosphere was filled with peace. Yet, I was quietly struggling. I had just recovered from a hive and allergy attack, and the heat of the day was pressing heavily on me. My skin was sensitive, and I could feel the sweat rolling down my face. My body was uncomfortable, but I kept going. Deep in my heart, I kept whispering, “Ya Allah, please help me stay calm… Help me endure this moment for Your sake.”

And then, something beautiful happened. A soft breeze came—cool, refreshing, and perfectly timed. It was as though Allah ﷻ had heard my silent plea and responded with His Mercy in
the gentlest way.

With each breath of that breeze, I felt lighter. Though my body remained tired, my heart became calm. It
reminded me of the beautiful ayah from the Qur’an:

“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”

Quran (13:28)

How true those words are. In that moment, surrounded by the rhythm of the waves and the voices of remembrance, I felt the kind of ease that only comes from being close to our Creator.

I am deeply thankful to our dear Ustaz Sameer for giving us the opportunity to be part of such a gathering. It wasn’t just an event—it was a sanctuary for the soul. A place to learn, to reflect, to reconnect with Allah ﷻ, and to grow alongside others on the same journey.

May Allah ﷻ reward our Ustaz Sameer for his sincere efforts and grant him the highest rewards in this life and the hereafter. And to all the sisters who shared this retreat — thank you for your kindness, your company, and your open hearts. You made this experience unforgettable.

This retreat reminded me that Allah’s Mercy often arrives quietly. Sometimes, it comes as a gentle wind on a hot day. Sometimes, as a smile from a fellow seeker. And always, it comes when we turn to Him with sincere hearts.

May Allah ﷻ continue to gather us in circles of remembrance and keep our hearts close to Him, always.

Do You Believe in One God
& Ready to [Re]start your Journey of Faith & Gratitude as a Muslim?