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It has been one year since the violence in Palestine reached new, unimaginable heights.

We have witnessed the suffering of our brothers and sisters unfold before our eyes, feeling their pain deeply yet often grappling with a sense of powerlessness.

Constant exposure to such profound injustice can take a significant psychological toll, manifesting as helplessness, anger, frustration, and even burnout.

It is essential to acknowledge that this exhaustion is real and valid.

The human heart and mind have limits; they can only bear so much before needing respite.

Continuous exposure to trauma—through news, social media, and conversations—can leave us emotionally drained and disconnected.

Yet, while taking moments to heal is necessary for our well-being, returning to support the cause remains equally important.

The Psychological Weight of Witnessing Injustice

When confronted with oppression on the scale seen in Palestine, a multitude of emotions naturally arise.

These feelings can intensify in our interconnected world, where stories and images flood our senses incessantly.

We strive to do more—to speak out, to donate, to pray—yet it can seem as though our efforts make little difference.

This emotional overload often leads to compassion fatigue.

However, feeling overwhelmed is not a sign of weakness or indifference.

It is a reminder of our humanity and our deep connection to the suffering of others.

Taking time to pause and rejuvenate is not turning a blind eye; instead, it equips us to reengage with greater purpose and energy.

Finding Balance: Resting Without Turning Away

Some might argue that it is unfair to step back when Palestinians endure these hardships daily, and indeed, their resilience calls us to steadfastness.

However, we must recognize that we create a continuous support system by doing our best collectively.

While one of us takes much-needed rest, others stand ready to post, protest, and remain vigilant.

As those individuals tire, more can step forward, ensuring that the momentum for justice is never lost.

Yet balance is essential in all things. By nurturing ourselves, we maintain the strength to contribute effectively to the cause.

Caring for Our Souls Amidst Grief

The spiritual toll of witnessing such suffering can be overwhelming.

We may question why these atrocities continue or feel discouraged by the lack of immediate change.

It is in these moments that we must turn to Allah for solace.

He reminds us:

"O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:153)

Engaging in prayer, reflection, and remembrance can ground us during despair.

These practices do not erase the pain but help us cope and reaffirm our trust in Allah's wisdom.

Additionally, connecting with our community can provide comfort and strength.

Sharing our feelings with family, friends, or support groups allows us to process emotions collectively and reminds us that we are not alone.

Collective Effort: A Continuous Chain of Support

Our individual capacities may ebb and flow, but together, we form an unbroken chain of support for Palestine.

This struggle is not a sprint but a marathon that demands enduring commitment and steadfastness.

Just as the civil rights movement spanned decades, overcoming immense obstacles through unwavering dedication, so must we persist in our efforts for justice in Palestine and worldwide.

Those in power may be relentless in their oppression, but we must be equally unrelenting in our pursuit of justice and compassion.

If we each contribute what we can, when we can, the collective impact becomes immense.

It's akin to a relay race: as one runner tires, another takes up the baton, ensuring the race continues unabated.

Our efforts, no matter how small they may seem individually, contribute to a greater whole.

Together, we can become a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward a future where justice prevails.