Being worried (afraid, even) of what others think is a blank cheque for mental torture or torment. 'A man's reputation,' said John Milton, 'is what other people think of him; his character is what he really is.' It's natural to want acceptance: no one likes being ill thought of. But it is simply not possible to please everyone,…
Grief & Loss: On Coping With Life’s Pitiless Storms
The following is less about the reason or meaning behind suffering and loss (which I've written about here), and more to do with coping with personal tragedy or grief. It was written for a close family, to help console them on the loss of a dear loved one. I have added a note on the nature of trials, as understood by…
Finding Happiness & Inner Peace
This short video reminds us of what is essential when we seek the good life: a life of inner contentment, happiness and peace of mind. The reminder bases itself upon the words of the Qur'an: Whoever does good, be they male or female, and has faith, We shall cause them to live a goodly life.…
How Our Outward States Affect Our Inner Moods; and Visa-Versa
'It was autumn, and the Indians on the reservation asked their new chief if it was going to be a cold winter. Raised in the ways of the modern world, the chief had never been taught the old secrets and had no way of knowing whether the winter would be cold or mild. To be…
Meaning Behind Life’s Tragedies, Trials & Suffering
Life is never without its ups and downs, its triumphs and tears, its joys and sorrows. In the Qur'an we read the following: We will surely test you with fear and hunger, and loss of property and lives and trade. But give glad-tidings to the patient who, when struck by some misfortune, say: “We belong to God, and to…