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Everything that happens is from Allah.

This realization is a beacon of light in times of darkness.

When we forget Allah, we risk falling into despair. The world starts to appear gloomy, and we might think nothing good lies ahead.

But as Muslims, we don't subscribe to a worldview of perpetual tragedy.

Unlike much Western literature, where stories often culminate in sorrow and loss, our narratives in the Qur'an are filled with hope and victorious endings.

The good prevail, no matter how bleak circumstances might seem.

This dunya—this worldly life—is the lowest place; "ad-dunya" means the lowest.

It's designed to break our hearts and detach us from it.

If we're seeking ultimate happiness here, we're looking in the wrong place.

True contentment isn't found in the temporary comforts of this world but in our relationship with Allah.

We might find it easier to forget Allah when things are going well.

Comfort can breed complacency. Conversely, our hearts tend to turn to Him during difficult times.

The companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) understood this well.

They observed that ease is often followed by hardship and hardship by ease.

They preferred to be in hardship, waiting for Allah's promised ease, rather than in ease, anticipating potential hardship.

Waiting for Allah's relief during tough times is one of the highest forms of worship. It embodies patience, trust, and unwavering faith.

Instead of falling into complaints and despair, we can find ease in being with Allah.

A powerful hadith warns against complaining about minor calamities, as it might lead Allah to give us greater ones.

Complaining can intensify our difficulties, making them seem insurmountable.

But if we remain patient, we open the door to Allah's mercy and relief.

Imam Al-Ghazali mentioned that every tribulation carries three blessings:

It Could Have Been Worse: Recognizing that our situation isn't as dire as it could be helps us maintain gratitude. This is why we are encouraged to look at those who have less than us, so we remain thankful for the blessings we often take for granted.

It Affects Worldly Matters, Not Our Faith: Material losses are temporary. Protecting our deen (faith) is central to our eternal success. Many might think they are happy when granted worldly gifts, only to be miserable without a connection to Allah.

There's a Promise of Reward: Allah rewards those who are patient during hardships. Every moment of patience brings us closer to Him.

Instead of dwelling on what's going wrong, let's focus on our relationship with Allah during these times.

If we grieve or need to release anxiety, let's turn to Him, ask for His help, and trust entirely in His wisdom.

In every obstacle we encounter, there lies an opportunity—the opportunity to practice virtue.

It's a chance to remain upright and compassionate despite the hardships that have come our way.

Even when misfortune befalls us, we can choose to do good in the world.

The focus isn't on seeking personal or professional gain from our challenges.

Instead, it's about transforming life's most challenging and heartbreaking moments through patience, selflessness, and tawakuul.

These virtues elevate us and inspire those around us, reinforcing the idea that obstacles can be pathways to personal growth and a deeper connection with Allah.

Remember, this world is temporary.

It's not meant to fulfill us—that's reserved for the hereafter.

Our true home is with Allah, and every hardship we endure with patience brings us a step closer to Him.