tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21842017818723603992024-02-19T00:54:40.987-08:00Hijab FilesRandom thoughts of a Muslim DoctorS Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-15736914406504204852011-02-25T06:16:00.001-08:002011-02-25T06:45:20.399-08:00Resolution 2 - Dua Update & Other ResolutionsAlhumdulillah, so far so good. I have been trying hard to make dua regularly and it's been going pretty well. Most days, I am making dua in sajdah after almost all prayers. I'm also trying to make dua regularly at other times like just before salaah at prayer time.<br /><br />There's also a book that comes highly recommended about Dua. It's called "Dua - The weapon of the Believer" by Sh. Yasir Qasir. I haven't read much of it so far but for those who want to learn about the art of making dua, the importance of making dua and many other things, it's a really good place to start.<br /><br />Here is an excerpt from the book:<br /><blockquote>12. Leaving Du'a is a Sign of Laziness<br />The Porphet (saw) said:<br />The most incapable (or lazy) person is he who does not make du'a, and the most miserly is he who does not give salam.<br />How true are these Prophetic words of wisdom! For what energy does it take a person to make du'a to Allah? And what greater sign of laziness and incapability is there than the one who leaves this act that does not take up any of his time or effort?</blockquote>Among my resolutions was to also read Surah Kahf on Fridays and alhumdulillah I've already been doing so. For those interested in reading about the hadith on the importance of reciting Surah Kahf. Do check my previous blog post on the matter <a href="http://hijabfiles.blogspot.com/2010/05/recite-surah-kahf-every-friday.html">here</a>. Since that's been going well, I'll update on it next month inshallah.<br /><br />My next plan is to start praying tahajjud regularly so inshallah, from the month of March, I'll start working on it. I'll post more details and hadith on the importance of it then and why I chose this to be my next resolution to work on.Nasreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17162804751643739835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-28121651188162091672011-02-21T11:22:00.000-08:002011-02-21T11:30:23.345-08:00Paris Hilton did NOT convert to IslamThe (fake) news of Paris Hilton converting has now gone viral. The sad thing is so many Muslims think this is real. The only news websites that have this are satire ones. No legit newspaper has printed reports of this and the only thing people are discussing are how Christians are glad to be rid of Paris and how Muslims are terrorists. Another excuse for people to write about how terrible we are. It's a little annoying.<br /><br />I think Muslims should be a little smart about it and avoid these discussions or at least arguments. They end up no where because most of the people online hating on Muslims don't really care for an explanation. At best, we can link websites which explain to non-Muslims what Islam is really about. Those who care will do their reading from proper sources.Nasreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17162804751643739835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-75757972359413974392011-02-16T16:01:00.000-08:002011-02-16T16:04:27.422-08:00Errors With BlogI seem to be having trouble with adding colour to certain parts of my blog posts. Not sure if this is because of the layout malfunctioning or because of the new changes to blogger.<div><br /></div><div>If it does turn out to be the layout, I might be using this moment to switch to a different/new blogger background. It might be a while before this happens but I may be making one myself, inshaAllah. :D</div>Nasreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17162804751643739835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-12255394437878908422011-02-16T15:23:00.000-08:002011-02-16T15:50:36.705-08:00Resolution 2 - DuaFor the month of Feb, my plan was to make dua after every salah. The reasoning for this is, it is well known among Muslims that Dua is the weapon of a believer. And I remember once upon a time telling people to make dua whenever they can. But for some reason, it was never my habit to sit and make dua regularly. So I decided that in order to make it easier for me to build up to making dua after all prayers, I'll start by making dua in sajdah for at least 3 prayers in a day. And that worked much better than forcing myself to make dua after every prayer because sometimes I'm just too jumpy and have so much on my mind about what all I have to do, I don't sit down to make dua or simply forget. *blush*<div><br /></div><div>It was a bad habit which is why it is my second resolution. It's past the mid month mark and although Feb is shorter than other months, it's already working. I decided that if I'm going to be making dua I should try to make it in the best way. So the 2 main things I've implemented are making dua in sajdah and starting by praising Allah followed by making dua for our Prophet (pbuh).</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >From Sahih Bukhari:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 1px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 1px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: The nearest a servant comes to his Lord is when he is prostrating himself, so make supplication (in this state). <span class="QuranData" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-weight: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; ">(Book <a href="http://www.searchtruth.com/book_display.php?book=004&translator=2&start=0&number=0979" style="text-decoration: none; ">#004</a>, Hadith <a href="http://www.searchtruth.com/book_display.php?book=004&translator=2&start=0&number=0979#0979" style="text-decoration: none; ">#0979</a>)</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 1px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 1px; "><span class="QuranData" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-weight: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 1px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 1px; ">Narrated Faddalah ibn Ubayd (RA): that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'When anyone of you makes du'a, let him start by glorifying his Lord and praising Him, then let him send blessings upon the Prophet (SAW), then let him pray for whatever he wants'<br />[abu Dawud #1481, at-Tirmidhi #3477]<br /><br />In another hadith; Baqiy ibn Mukhallid (RA) narrated that that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'Every du'a is not responded to until one sends blessings upon the Prophet (SAW)' [al-Bayhaqi]<br /><br />In another hadith; Umar (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: 'Du'a is detained between the heavens and the earth and no part of it is taken up until you send blessings upon your Prophet (SAW)' [at-Tirmidhi #486]</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>I've also begun making dua after the azaan. InshaAllah, I'll be updating next month on how much of a habit I've developed and how successful I've been in making duas after every salah.</div>Nasreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17162804751643739835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-26943667208816307642011-02-16T15:13:00.000-08:002011-02-16T15:14:13.377-08:00Resolution 1 - Salah UpdateAlhumdulillah, last month I made a resolution to improve my imaan and the way I practice deen and give myself a new challenge each month to completely concentrate on one aspect. January was all about Salah (prayer).<div><br /></div><div>It is a pillar of Islam. A hadith states that the difference between a believer and a non-believer is salaah. It is thus the first thing I wanted to work on. 31 days, 5 times a day. 6 if you consider witr separate.</div><div><br /></div><div>Alhumdulillah, I was pretty successful. I have to add that praying regularly also really helped my imaan. It's the connection you have with Allah and when you make a sincere intention to do something to be closer to Allah, He helps you succeed.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also read a really interesting (and long) <a href="http://muslimmatters.org/2009/02/27/transcript-of-khutbah-on-salah-by-yasir-qadhi/">khutba on Muslim Matters</a> on the matter and importance of salah. I feel that it might be beneficial as a reminder to everyone, perhaps act as a motivation even.</div>Nasreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17162804751643739835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-67293695939377420402011-01-13T05:48:00.000-08:002011-02-25T06:16:01.087-08:00New Year Resolutions - Part 1Hope everyone had a wonderful start to this new year, inshaAllah. I felt like the previous year just flew by me and I didn't achieve much. So I've decided a make a few new year resolutions to help myself be a better Muslim and whether I achieve much in this dunya or not, I should prepare for my akhirah.<br /><br />It is believe that in order to make anything a habit, one needs to repeat it over prolonged periods of time. Once you've done it 20 times or more, it will eventually come naturally. Hence, I've decided to spread my new years resolution over the period of next 12 months. This way, it is not overwhelming and it gives me time to practice.<div><br /></div><div>The other benefit is that I have time to concentrate on perfecting this ONE thing and even if my imaan dwindles at any point, I can push myself to just do that single thing instead of trying to do a bunch of things and then feeling like I can't go on.<br /><br /></div><div>So here are my resolutions so far:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.clipartguide.com/_named_clipart_images/0511-0811-1015-4072_Woman_Making_a_List_of_New_Years_Resolutions_clipart_image.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 328px; height: 350px;" src="http://www.clipartguide.com/_named_clipart_images/0511-0811-1015-4072_Woman_Making_a_List_of_New_Years_Resolutions_clipart_image.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />1. <span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Praying salah at proper times</span>.</span> I wanted to start with salah because it's the difference between a true Muslim and a non Muslim. It's what makes us different. It's also the way we connect with Allah. Unfortunately, I used to miss prayers at times because I used to get preoccupied with other things or find it difficult to wake up for fajr.<br /><br />2. <span class="Apple-style-span">Reciting Surah Kahf</span> every Thursday after maghrib or on Friday before maghrib.<br /><br />3. <span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Reciting Surah Mulk daily</span>.</span> </span>It's the Surah that will protect us again the punishment of the grave.<br /><br />4. <span class="Apple-style-span">Learning a <span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">new Surah</span>.</span></span><br /><br />5. <span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Waking up for <span class="Apple-style-span">tahajjud</span></span>.</span> Several scholars recommend this as the best time to pray and make heartfelt dua to Allah (swt).<br /><br />6. Spending at least 2 mins <span class="Apple-style-span">reciting <span class="Apple-style-span">dua after every salah</span>. </span>Most people might find it confusing how this can be difficult. But, unfortunately, I never had the habit of making regular dua after salah but there are also other reasons which I won't go into.<br /><br />7. <span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Reciting duas upon waking up and going to bed</span>.</span> </span>I would love to include how beneficial some of these duas are. InshaAllah, I'll cover them in individual posts when I get to them.<br /><br />Right now this is no set order. I figure that I should probably test it out and see how it goes before fixating on what I'm going to be doing next. One thing's for sure, salah is this month's priority.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now these are only 7 because at the moment as they are something I want to achieve. I may make changes as and when I see fit. If anyone would like to join me, they are most welcome. And of course, it doesn't have to be the same set of things that you'd like to do. It can be anything you'd like to fix. Do let me know if you decide to join. It might be more motivating for us. :)</div>Nasreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17162804751643739835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-58736965509905853272010-10-11T12:08:00.000-07:002010-10-11T12:08:00.225-07:00Change in layout?I'm hoping to hear from my readers regarding my current layout. Do you feel it needs changing? Or should I consider sticking with it?<br /><br />Lately, I've been experimenting with photoshop and trying to design my own blogger background. Of course, I'm still a beginner so I might be changing backgrounds often to try and experiment.<br /><br />Please use the comments area for feedback. Would love to hear from you. :)S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-30906609796727094192010-10-10T20:56:00.000-07:002010-10-11T00:02:54.712-07:00Back In Action & Recurring DreamsAs salaam walaikum all,<br /><br />I know I've been on a huge blogging break. I had been extremely busy for a while now after which I needed a break. Did a bit of travelling and relaxing. Alhumdulillah. But I am back.<br /><br />Recently, I had a dream about an amusement part which I believe I've dreamt about several times. In fact, the dream was so familiar that I actually felt that I had been to such a park. But in reality, the more I thought about it, the more I began to realize that I've never been to such a place. But I felt as if I had collected memories of several places and formed a unique place that came to me in my dream. I love amusement parks and I've been to several places in different parts of the world. Just a few of the things I recall is this water ride. It was a huge slide with turns and twists and you sit down and are eventually thrown into the water but somehow people were floating over the water which flowed like a stream around the steps leading up to the slide. The interesting thing was no one was actually getting wet except for a little bit. Everyone was normally dressed. In another part of this park were some rides similar to the octopus where I thought I could sit and try myself off.<br />http://susieofarabia.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/dscf6012-4.jpg<br />Source: http://susieofarabia.wordpress.com/2009/06/30/water-park/<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Please note that I have never actually been to the above waterpark. It's the closest image I could find to what I had seen in my dream.</span><br /><br />In earlier parts of the dream I saw myself driving along a coast line. It was a really beautiful sight. Huge waves hitting the rocks. Apparently I had driven off to a different part of the country where a cousin lives. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.new-zealand-pictures.co.nz/data/media/17/rocky-coastline-waves_1952.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 480px; height: 319px;" src="http://www.new-zealand-pictures.co.nz/data/media/17/rocky-coastline-waves_1952.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Source: http://www.new-zealand-pictures.co.nz/<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Above is a place in new zealand. This was similar to what I had seen in my dream.</span><br /><br />In reality cousin lives in a different place. The city I was in isn't as beautiful as I had dreamt. Nor is there such a coast line. This part of the dream was new but the previous part was as though I have seen the park several times before.<br /><br />Have you ever experienced any recurring dreams or dreams that made you feel as if you've been to certain places but in reality never have. Or anything that felt so real, even after you awaken, you feel unable to recover from what you have seen.S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-75880323881808669762010-08-10T21:48:00.000-07:002010-08-10T21:59:43.088-07:00Ramadan Mubarak!Alhumdulillah the blessed month is here. I wish every Ramadan Mubarak. Remember to increase good deeds and stay away from bad habits.<p>I've come across a Ramadan check list that may be beneficial to us all: http://www.scribd.com/doc/277033/Ramadhan-action-checklist</p>May Allah accept our fasts, duas and good deeds. Ameen.<br /><br />We've got some awesome dates at home this time. I'm not sure of their name but they taste wonderful when they are ripe. Here's a pic:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/86/250437206_1982a80228.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/86/250437206_1982a80228.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Enjoy your Ramadan and may Allah make our fasts easy. Ameen. :) Do keep me in your duas as well.S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-9026347232525466662010-07-22T18:33:00.000-07:002010-07-22T18:37:09.504-07:00Benefits Of Reciting Various SurahsI found a a link stating all kinds of benefits of various Surahs including those which the Prophet read during various prayers:<br /><br />http://www.sunnipath.com/library/Books/B0039P0009.aspxS Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-50848974277744506202010-06-29T03:49:00.000-07:002010-06-29T03:57:58.060-07:00Something To Reflect OnA hadith I came across recently:<br /><p style="text-align: center;" class="ecxecxMsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said, “Allah `azza wa jall said: <em style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">‘Verily, from amongst My slaves is he whose faith cannot be rectified except by being inflicted with poverty, and were I to enrich him, it would surely corrupt him. Verily, from amongst My slaves is he whose faith cannot be rectified except by wealth and affluence, and were I to deprive him, it would surely corrupt him. Verily, from amongst My slaves is he whose faith cannot be rectified except by good health, and were I to make him sick, it would surely corrupt him. Verily, from amongst My slaves is he whose faith cannot be rectified except by disease and illness, and were I to make him healthy, it would surely corrupt him. Verily, from amongst My slaves is he who seeks worship by a certain act but I prevent that from him so that self-amazement does not enter his heart. </span></em></span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><i><span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">Certainly, I run the affairs of My slaves by My Knowledge of what is in their hearts. Certainly, I am the All-Knower, All-Aware.</span></i></strong><em style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">‘”</span></em><em><span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"></span></em></span></p> <div style="text-align: center;" class="ecxecxMsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">[Reported by al-Tabarani.]</span></span></div>If anyone comes across an explanation for this hadith in more detail, please do post in the comments.<br /><br />Jazakallah khair. :)S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-12887871722765289242010-05-19T21:57:00.000-07:002010-05-19T22:29:18.764-07:00Campaign Against Draw Muhammad DayI'm sure many of you have heard of this campaign and even though the woman who originally thought of the idea regrets ever bringing it up, some people are using the idea to defend their hatred by trying to hurt Muslims. Instead of targeting and opposing violent acts committed by a few, a facebook group & website is promoting open hatred against Muslim's beloved Prophet (saw).<br /><br />Unfortunately, we cannot remove the hatred from the hearts of everyone but we can try to enlighten people and remove their ignorance and one sided view about Islam and Prophet Muhammad (saw) and let Allah (swt) guide their hearts and their conscience.<br /><br />There is campaign started by some Muslims and I found the following videos on youtube.<br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0Z1l7QAMGuA&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0Z1l7QAMGuA&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br />It is very beautiful, mashaallah.<div><br />Also read this <a href="http://www.cair.com/ArticleDetails.aspx?ArticleID=26400&&name=n&&currPage=1&&Active=1">response from CAIR</a> regarding this day.<br /><br />It is important to understand that by joining these groups and stooping to their level, we would not be achieving anything but inspiring more to try and annoy us. Recollect the hadith that the one who controls is the stronger person and the following:<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Abu Umamah al-Bahili reports: Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:<br />I guarantee a house in the lower portion of Jannah for whoever gives up arguing even if he is right, and a house in the middle of Jannah for whoever gives up lying even if he is joking, and a house for in the highest level of Jannah for whoever perfects their akhlaq. [Abu Dawood]</span><br /><br />Instead of reacting, we should increase our efforts to promote the truth behind Islam and become more active in dawah.</div>S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-7434860202713745502010-05-14T15:55:00.000-07:002010-05-14T16:10:56.725-07:00Patience/SabrI'm trying to collect hadith and ayahs on Sabr and patience, please comment if you know of more.<br /><br />Jazakallah khair.<br /><br />Here's what I have so far:<br />"O you who believe! Endure and be more patient..". (3:200)<br /><br />"And certainly, We shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to As-Sabirun (the patient)". (2:155)<br /><br />"Only those who are patient shall receive their reward in full, without reckoning.'' (39:10)<br /><br />"And verily, whosoever shows patience and forgives, that would truly be from the things recommended by Allah.'' (42:43)<br /><br />"Seek help in patience and As-Salat (the prayer). Truly, Allah is with As-Sabirun (the patient).'' (2:153)<br /><br />"And surely, We shall try you till We test those who strive hard (for the Cause of Allah) and As-Sabirun (the patient)'' (47:31)S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-26838438989044024432010-05-07T08:44:00.000-07:002010-05-07T08:55:53.458-07:00Recite Surah Kahf Every FridayRasulullah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said:<br />"The person who recites Surah Kahf on Fridays, a nur will appear for him from below the arsh as high as the skies. This light will help him in the darkness of the day of resurrection . And all the sins which he may have committed from the last Friday till this Friday will be forgiven . "<br />(Sharh Sifrus-Sa'aadah) The ulama have written that this Hadith refers to minor sins because major sins are not forgiven without making taubah.<br /><br />It is recommended to recite Surat al-Kahf completely the night before Friday, and it is also recommended to do so Friday itself, before Maghrib time. Ibn Abidin said, And it is best to do so early on Friday, in order to rush to the good and to avoid forgetting. [Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, Bab al-Jumu`ah]<br /><br />Hadith related by Hakim and Bayhaqi, from Abu Sa`id (Allah be pleased with him), Whoever recites Surat al-Kahf on Friday, light shall shine forth for him between the two Fridays. [Ibn Hajar, Talkhis al-Habir]S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-11712655064523854122010-04-11T14:30:00.000-07:002010-04-11T16:52:25.897-07:00Computers, Birds and Working Towards the Straight PathHere's what's been happening. I've had major computer problems so I have been trying really hard to get that fixed. Plus, I've had so many things on my mind lately, I've had no time whatsoever to even think about blogging. I apologize for that.<br /><br />Regarding my wisdom tooth, alhumdulillah, it seems to be healing well. Initially a lot of food was getting stuck in there but the hole seems to have become more shallow now although I haven't looked at it all that carefully but I don't feel like things are piling up. So, that's good. But there's definitely still a hole.<br /><br />I still am getting birds. I had started getting a different pair of bulbuls. These ones have white cheeks and a yellow bottom. And guess what? They had twins! MashaAllah. The babies are totally cute! They are greyish brown and slightly smaller than their parents. Slightly bigger than a sparrow. They've become quite friendly and don't run away when they see me. Last week they were begging their parents to feed them and this week, they come to my balcony and start tweeting. I open the door and throw crushed biscuits and they gobble it up. They come really close. About a foot away from me. MashaAllah. <br /><br />Other than that, I've been trying to make some positive changes in my life such as:<br />1. Try to pray tahajjud regularly. I can't wake up to pray it so it's a good thing, it's okay to stay and pray it and sleep. Although, that's pretty exhausting as well.<br />2. Reciting Surah Kahaf every Friday.<br /><br />InshaAllah, I'll post details on thatS Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-52178799920076627712010-03-27T03:33:00.000-07:002010-03-27T05:03:44.035-07:00Sorry For the AbsenceI'm sorry for being away for so long. Unfortunately I had some computer issues which I am still trying to get fixed.<br /><br />InshaAllah, I will try to stay more up to date with this blog.<br /><br />Anyone tried the blogger in draft as yet?S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-7299381486753132472010-02-21T18:20:00.000-08:002010-02-21T18:37:45.963-08:00Stitches out and follow upAlhumdulillah, I had a very easy 1st week. My biggest issue was finding it hard to open my mouth fully without making a lot of effort. Plus, I'd hear my jaw click everytime. I was supposed to go back to the surgeon to get my stitches out but thursday (exactly 1 week later) I decided to go to a different dentist. Ahumdulillah, she was very nice and pulled the stitches out painlessly. She put a pack in my wound, which I think defeated the purpose of having stitches to close the gap, coz she said there was slight inflammation and it'll help reduce it. And 24 hrs later, I could open and close my mouth without a problem. I was so happy! Alhumdulillah. :D Also, she recommended I do salt water gargling as it helps keep the inflammation down.<br /><br />It's been 2 weeks later, she's put the pack twice and I got it removed today. She said there's flesh/tissue over the bone now so I won't have any pain. So, inshaAllah, no chance of dry socket. I need to continue doing salt water gargles but with every meal. And I have a hole in my gum because of which I'm trying to avoid eating on that side, especially things like rice so it doesn't get stuck inside.<br /><br />Alhumdulillah, even though the actual procedure was a nightmare, the post-op period has been very smooth and I had to take minimal medications. In order for the wound to heal, I believe it'll take a month or so. The bone can take upto 6 months. I'll follow up every now and then regarding this.S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-78630047280523750452010-02-08T06:08:00.000-08:002010-02-08T06:30:16.344-08:00Post-op 2 & 3The second day went pretty well. I didn't really have any problems. In the first 24hrs I wasn't supposed to spit so I was wondering how to do wudhu. Just took a little bit of water each time and tried to let it out by simply opening my mouth. And swallowed the rest. Then I tried to keep my wudhu for the rest of the day. I didn't want the clot dislodging and getting a dry socket (a complication of the procedure which results in severe pain). In order to prevent your muscles from stiffening up, you have to keep opening and closing your mouth. It was pretty easy the 2nd day but for some reason it became harder the 3rd day and today. It needs a few tries before I can open my mouth fully. And I feel a little click in my jaw when I do. Hope that smooths out.<br /><br />I had some mild discomfort yesterday but not much of a problem. I'm on antibiotics so not that worried but it just feels a little weird. I wonder if it's the stitches. I still can't make out how many there are. They look like a clump with maybe a little bit of blood clot there too which I can taste every now and then.<br /><br />Good thing is fasting is usually pretty easy for me so not eating a lot of food isn't too bad. Day 2 I had ice cream, peach, very small pieces of an apple and at night, cool daal soup since I am not allowed hot things. Day 3, I had muttar paneer, peach, half a banana, raita, yogurt, and biryani. I'm actually enjoying the variety. :P<br /><br />So, until I have to go back to that dentist and get my stitches removed (which should normally be painless but I don't seem to trust him at all at this point), all iz well. :PS Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-69791740479891393752010-02-04T23:21:00.000-08:002010-02-04T23:38:28.741-08:00Post-op day 1Just had my wisdom tooth extracted 1 and half hours ago. Man, it was one horrible experience! It was done under local anesthesia and I could still feel pain as the tooth was being ripped out of the socket. The dentist kept insisting it was only pressure but it was too painful to simply be pressure. And the procedure was supposed to be simple because the tooth was pretty much straight (vertical). I've decided that for the next one, I'm going to go under so that I don't have to deal with that again. I've got stitches too. Seems like several. Once I get to open my mouth more I'll have a peak at how many there are.<br /><br />Pain level is not bad for now. I can feel my lip and cheek. Tongue is slightly numb. I've had an intramuscular (IM) diclofenac and corticosteroid so that should help the pain and swelling for a while. Although the doctor said there should be none. Allahu 'alim. I do see mild swelling.<br /><br />My gauze is out. I can't spit or gargle for the first 24 hrs so I've just been swallowing slowly and have had chocolate milk so that I can take my antibiotics. I didn't get much sleep at night so I'm really tired.<br /><br />Lets hope everything improves from this point onwards. I'll keep updating. :)S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-84762834955493682602010-01-20T03:55:00.000-08:002010-01-20T04:03:55.683-08:00Impacted Wisdom ToothYep, that's what I have unfortunately. And I've been meaning to get it removed but haven't found the time and it's been bugging me lately. I had a throat infection which I now feel has included my wisdom tooth. And I've already started myself on antibiotics. Only problem is I'm looking for a good dentist but there aren't any in my area. The ones I've known or experienced have been not that great, to be honest. Some even sucked.<br /><br />The thing about gynecs and dentists, among those that I've come across, are insensitive and don't care about the patients pain. This is terrible because they deal with patients in pain every single day! Anyway, so I'm hunting for a good dentist who is kind, polite (something which I haven't seen in many dentists), and painless (duh!).<br /><br />In the meantime, you can feast your eyes on what I will undergo to get my impacted wisdom tooth removed:<br /><object width="320" height="265"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GY459kTn32c&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GY459kTn32c&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="320" height="265"></embed></object>S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-67970132860250926432010-01-12T14:09:00.000-08:002010-01-12T14:13:35.715-08:00Managing Time & Life With Muhammad AlshareefJust finished listening to sheikh Muhammad Alshareef's webinar. It was really good. Those who want to be there for the repeat, you can get the details here:<div>http://timetravelmaster.blogspot.com/2010/01/webinar-journeys-end-starting-now.html</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-67017359498590345292009-12-31T16:47:00.000-08:002009-12-31T17:42:55.373-08:00The New Year & Old MemoriesA brand new year is starting and I just it's the best time to reflect on the past yr and such and see how we can change for the better as Muslims, as humans (although they should mean the same thing but some of us forget that).<br /><br />By the way, did you know, there's a <a href="http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/091230-blue-moon-new-years-eve.html">blue moon</a> tonight? :D<br /><br />This year was slightly boring for me but I feel like I made some really good changes, especially towards the end. InshaAllah, I can improve further in the coming 2010 in places I lack and replace everything that I find is negative with something positive. :D<br /><br />I was remembering old friends who I am no longer in touch with. Not sure what triggered the memory. I had actually tried to get in touch with both of them shortly after the incidents (which were rather small to lose a long friendship over) that drove us apart but didn't get a response. I wonder if they think about how silly that was. Do people ever realize things and are able to overcome their ego and try to patch the relationship that had more positive than the few negatives that caused the split? I can imagine Shaitaan finding it pleasant when good Muslims/friends/family members develop misunderstanding. I wonder if they think about that. Alhumdulillah. I am not really upset about it because from my side, I did try to contact them.<br /><br />Sometimes, people say a lot of things that a perfect person would do in a perfect world but in most less than perfect situations, we forget our own philosophies and act just as the next inconsiderate person would. Perhaps, to be more self aware should be our new year's resolution. :)<br /><br />Happy New Year to all!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cjad.com/files/feeds/2_1_5212592_w123145A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 178px;" src="http://www.cjad.com/files/feeds/2_1_5212592_w123145A.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />May Allah (swt) help us to be better Muslims and do more of what is pleasing to Him and what brings us closer to Him. Ameen.S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-32270706041662159812009-12-29T18:06:00.000-08:002009-12-29T18:11:56.700-08:00Google Wave BotsI wonder how many people are waving. *waves back* lol.<br /><br />I haven't used it as much as I hoped I would. Everyone I know seems to have the same issue. Probably the worst thing about GW (doesn't that remind people of Bush? :P ) is that it takes a while to load and frequently hangs. :(<br /><br />Back to the point. A list of bots one can use in GWave (sounds better than GW, no?):<br />http://googlewavebots.info/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page#Wave_Group_BotsS Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-13269059249598420822009-12-22T17:13:00.001-08:002009-12-23T12:08:32.314-08:00Surah Mulk Protects From Punishment Of The Grave<p>It is related in the Sunans of Imam al-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): </p> <p><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">I heard the Messenger of Allah (upon him be peace) saying, "There is a Surah in the Qur'an which contains thirty Ayat which will keep interceding for a man until his sins are forgiven. This Surah is `Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion.' (Surat Al-Mulk 67).'' </span><br /></p><p>Another hadith, I believe it is from Tirmidhi:</p><p style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">A person is approached [by the angels of punishment] in the grave from the legs then the legs say: You cannot approach him from here for he used to stand on us reciting Surat al-Mulk; when they approach his chest it says: You cannot approach him from here for he preserved Surat al-Mulk in me; and when they approach his head it says: You cannot approach him from here for he used to recite Surat al-Mulk with me.</p><p>Hence this Sura is the Immunizer (al-Mani`a), it immunizes one from the punishment of the grave. It is mentioned in the Torah* as Surat al-Mulk also. If anyone recites it in the night he has accomplished a great deal and has excelled.</p><p>Isn't this a wonderful benefit of reciting a 30 ayat (verse) Surah every night before sleeping? I am trying to make it a habit to reciting it every night. InshaAllah, I'm hoping in the process I end up by hearting it. :)</p><p>* Please note: I have taken that statement from sunnipath and have not personally come across any references of the Surah in the online versions of the Torah.<br /></p>S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184201781872360399.post-67722025284419514452009-12-17T16:51:00.001-08:002009-12-17T18:04:13.566-08:00Stress, Anger and Guarding One's TongueFeeling a bit stressed out lately. A lot of things on my mind. Some more silly than others. But that's a part and parcel of life. Sometimes when we are stressed, it leads to anger and anger can lead to things we shouldn't be saying. It may seem like a release but it can just add to our sins.<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">"The strong is not the one who overcomes people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself when in anger." </span>(Al-Bukhari, Book 73, #135)<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Messenger of Allah - SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam - said, “Most of the sins of the children of Aadam are from the tongue.” - At-Tabaraanee</span> (3/87/1-2)<br /></span><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Abu Moosa al-Asharee - radiAllahu' anhu - said, “O Messenger of Allah, which of the Muslims are better?” The Messenger of Allah said, “Those who do not harm the Muslims with their tongues and hands.” - Saheeh al-Bukhari (1/10) and Saheeh al-Muslim</span> (1/64) </span><br /><br />If we compare the problems we face, they are nothing compared to what some of our Muslim brothers and sisters are facing. So, here are a few of my tips for when someone feels tenses:<br />1. We should make dua to Allah (swt) and ask him to lessen our burden and help us with whatever problem/obstacle or stress we are facing.<br />2. We try to change our mood because when you are stressed and upset, you can't think clearly. One way of this is to watch a cute video, like this:<br /><object height="265" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QNynm9E7Xps&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QNynm9E7Xps&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="265" width="320"></embed></object><br />It was funny how the cat had it's paw over the rabbit's head. :P MashaAllah, so much love!<br />Once you watch many such videos and lighten your mood, you can proceed to the next step.<br />3. Figuring out how to eliminate the problem. If you can fix it, figure out how. Is it worth worrying about? If you can't fix it, what can you do to improve the situation or how you react to it? One way is by doing something that makes you happy that makes the problem giving you stress seem small.<br />4. Read the Quran and ponder over it's meaning. Read your favourite verses. Keep a collection of verses that help you and bring you peace and calm you.<br />5. Sleep on it. If it's something that you can't think of a solution, make dua to Allah (swt) and sleep on it. You'll feel better about it when you have rested.<br /><br />If there's something that helps you, please do share. InshaAllah, you found the above advice beneficial. :)S Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362515865851094346noreply@blogger.com4