Friday, 14 April 2023

The Late-Sleeper, Obsessed Taraweeh Observer, and Lover of Swallow: 3 Muslims Share their Ramadan Routines


During the blessed and holy month of Ramadan, my daily routine shifts - for example, on weekends I'm usually in bed by 9:30 pm, whereas in other months I often stay up later, engaging in various activities before retiring for the night.

Without a doubt, Ramadan is a unique month that sets itself apart from the rest of the year. What is your routine like during this blessed month? Do you spend the night in prayerful reflection, observing taraweeh, and immersing yourself in the imam's melodious voice? Or do you stay up all night, engaging in tahajjud? What kind of meals do you enjoy most, and what about Ramadan brings you the most joy? Its incomparable mercy, unparalleled peace, bountiful provisions, and infinite joy are truly something to behold.

We have invited some Muslims to share their unique Ramadan routines with us. From those who love to savour the deliciousness of swallow to the devoted Muslim who spends their nights in prayerful Taraweeh, hear how they strive to create harmony between their personal and spiritual obligations throughout the holy month.

 

ABDULRAHMAN

Two words to describe your mood when Ramadan approaches:

Excited & Hopeful.

 

What, to you, is the best part of the holy month?

The month of Ramadan is an amazing experience for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Muslims who are not so religious during other months strive to become better during Ramadan. I recently came across this chart that analyzed the level of atrocities people commit every month. It was so high in other months, but when it got to the month of Ramadan, the atrocities were so reduced that the chart was flat. We've even seen the streets of London decorated to celebrate the commencement of Ramadan, which makes it all the more special.

 

What time do you wake up during the holy month? What time do you sleep?

For the first twenty days, I woke up at around four in the morning to pray tahajjud, do dhikr, and read the Qur'an before having sahur at five. My sleep schedule varies, as I often read the Qur'an at night due to my work during the day, but I generally try to go to bed earlier than usual.

How has your sleeping pattern changed since Ramadan commenced?

Since the start of the fast, my sleeping pattern has drastically changed: I now sleep early and wake up early, and I even take naps during the day to make up for the lost hours at night.


Tell us about a particular favorite activity you enjoy performing in Ramadan. Do you read, watch videos, or hang out with friends?

Before Ramadan began, I used to only open the Qur’an for hifz (memorization) and murajjah (revision). However, during this blessed month, I have taken the time to appreciate the Qur’an by actually reading it.

 

What kind of meals do you enjoy eating for sahur and iftar?

For sahur, I relish hot semo and egusi soup, accompanied by succulent goat meat. I don't have a particular preference when it comes to iftar, as I enjoy a variety of delicacies. Nonetheless, I'm especially fond of fried foods such as fried eggs and potatoes. 


HAMIDA

Two words to describe your mood when Ramadan approaches.

Delighted and Anxious.


What, to you, is the best part of the holy month?

The night of Laylatul Qadr. It's my favorite part of the holy month. 


What time do you wake up during the holy month? What time do you sleep?

Mostly, I get up by 4:30 to prepare for sahur, and afterward, I observe the fajr prayer before going back to sleep (which depends on the day's schedule).


How has your sleeping pattern changed since Ramadan commenced?

Of course, it has. Before Ramadan began, I stayed up late a lot. Sometimes I go to bed by 11 p.m. or 12. Nowadays, I'll be deep in my sleep by 9 p.m.


Tell us about a particular favorite activity you enjoy performing in Ramadan. Do you read, watch videos, or hang out with friends?

I enjoy reading a lot. But lately, that's all I seem to do.


What kind of meals do you enjoy eating for sahur and iftar?

I don't have a specific preference for the types of meals I enjoy during iftar and sahur. I enjoy eating spontaneously.


Reveal your most beloved form of worship.

Waking up while the night is silent and praying to Allah. 


MARYAM

Two words to describe your mood when Ramadan approaches:

Anxious & Hopeful.


What, to you, is the best part of the holy month?

The fact that every Muslim, irrespective of their level of faith, takes individual steps to please Allah and maximize the benefits of the holy month. It is inspiring to witness how many Muslims, through small acts, strive to do things they wouldn't normally do, such as abstaining from music or staying up late to pray tahajjud. Ramadan is a reminder that Muslims can strive to do better for themselves and others and to prepare for the afterlife.


What time do you wake up during the holy month? What time do you sleep?

At the start of Ramadan, I make an effort to wake up at 4:00 am, pray a few rak'ahs, and prepare for Sahur. Lately, however, I have been having difficulty waking up on time. I am thankful for the last 10 days and the opportunity to make a change. Additionally, I have adjusted my nightly routine to ensure that I can wake up at a reasonable hour for tahajjud and sahur rather than sleeping late like I do during other months.


How has your sleeping pattern changed since Ramadan commenced?


Since the beginning of Ramadan, my sleep cycle has been significantly altered, yet my body is adjusting to the new routine of rising, sleeping, and eating.


Tell us about a particular favorite activity you enjoy performing in Ramadan. Do you read, watch videos, or hang out with friends?

I read Islamic books and watch inspiring videos. I also enjoy reading the Qur’an and staring at Muslims storming the mosque for the taraweeh prayers. 


What kind of meals do you enjoy eating for sahur and iftar?

I enjoy eating light meals for Sahur, like rice and pasta. I also enjoy eating eba. Rice and pasta are also my go-to meals for Iftar. 




 


Sunday, 19 March 2023

5 Notable Art Galleries in Lagos


Welcome to the captivating world of art galleries in Lagos, Nigeria! This vibrant and diverse city is a treasure trove of culture, art, and entertainment and is home to some of the most awe-inspiring art galleries in the world. Visiting art galleries is an enriching experience, as it encourages one to explore different worldviews and ideas while developing emotional intelligence. To help you experience the best of the art galleries in Lagos, I have compiled a list of the top five that you must visit. 

(1)

Nike Art Gallery

Photo Credit: Hotels.ng

2, Elegushi Rd., Ikate 2
nd Round-about, Epe Expressway, Lagos

What is a list of art galleries without the Nike Art Gallery topping the list? Boasting one of the largest art collections in West Africa, the Nike Art Gallery is a must-see for any art enthusiast. Owned by renowned Nigerian artist Nike Davies Okundaye, this four-story building houses thousands of artworks from both Nigerian and foreign artists. Visitors are not allowed to bring personal cameras into the gallery, as this is prohibited to protect the work of the artists. But, if you’re looking for a break, the gallery also has an onsite café where you can purchase refreshments. Before you leave, make sure to visit the ‘tie and die’ section of the gallery for a truly unique experience.

(2)

Osh Gallery

Photo Credit: Hotels.ng

Herbert Macaulay Road, Yaba

If you're an art enthusiast, you'd definitely want to explore the privately owned, popular art gallery established in 2013. Osh Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in Lagos, Nigeria. The gallery was established in 2001 to promote the work of emerging and established Nigerian and African artists. The gallery features a wide range of work, including paintings, sculptures, photography, multimedia works, installations, and performances. Osh Gallery strives to create a platform for artists to share their work and engage with the public. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions, talks, and lectures to educate the public about art and culture. Osh Gallery is a great place to explore the vibrant art scene of Lagos, Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Of Food & Movies

(3)

Terra Kulture

Photo Credit: Hotels.ng

Established in 2004 by Bolanle Austen-Peters, Terra Kulture is a renowned cultural centre renowned for promoting Nigerian culture, art, languages, and entertainment. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore Nigerian culture, where they can purchase African-themed books and items. Furthermore, visitors should not miss out on their delicious jollof rice and fried plantains - a treat that they won't regret!

(4)

Rele Gallery

Photo Credit: South South Art

Lagos Island

The "Rele Gallery" in Lagos is an unmissable destination for art lovers. Here, you can explore a range of contemporary and extraordinary artworks that will help redefine your understanding of art. Whether you are looking for a unique experience or simply want to be inspired, Rele Gallery is the perfect place to visit in the city.

(5)

 Art Twenty One

Photo Credit: Art Twenty One

1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Kuramo Waters, Victoria Island

The Caline Chagoury-managed art gallery in Lagos is one of the newest additions to the city's vibrant art scene. With the aim of pushing Lagos to the top of the international art scene, the remarkable gallery is working to contribute to the growth of the art world in Lagos.

Do you want to immerse yourself in the world of art galleries? Visit one of them on the weekend and share your experience with us if you have already had the chance to explore one of them.


Sunday, 29 January 2023

Our Most Memorable Moments, Top Books, Gripping Movies & TV Shows of 2022


About five months ago, I read a beautiful quote that summed up how I had been living and thriving. What had kept me going despite life's ups and downs.

We tell ourselves stories in order to live.” 

I remember vividly how I had excitedly sent a message to my sisters when a lady complimented my new outfit. Lagos traffic had been bizarre, and commuting home that day was one of my worst experiences in Lagos. But the moment my eyes twinkled with delight when someone appreciated my green-coloured gown and the way I had relayed the news kept me going. Or, was it the amazing moment I shared with a long-time friend? The great meals we had together, the life stories we shared, and the way I laughed until my stomach hurt?

We do indeed survive based on the stories we tell ourselves. The remarkable books we read and keep gushing about, the lovely movies and TV shows that leave us in awe and amazement, and the deep conversations we have with our loved ones. 

My sister and I share our most memorable moments, best books, and gripping movies and TV shows of 2022. I hope this list keeps you entertained and buoys you to seek happiness and joy in places you never expect. Enjoy! 


Maryam

Most Gripping Book: It has to be ‘A Man Called Ove’ by Frederik Backman. I look up to elderly people who have experienced both the joy and adversities of life, and I believe that there is a multitude of lessons that can help every youth navigate through the complexities of life. ‘A Man Called Ove’ is a beautiful and emotional novel that will make you chuckle and also leave you in tears. You’ll definitely fall in love with Ove and snigger at his eccentric beliefs.

Most Memorable Moment: Haha! That would be when I spent time with an old friend, Hassan. He’s a simple, kind, and funny person, and you can never get bored hanging out with him. I thoroughly enjoyed how much I was ‘myself’ as we visited places like Raddison Blu and how he loudly exclaimed, ‘Abeg, let’s go to a more affordable eatery and eat good food!


Best Movie: Call me someone obsessed with old people. I really don’t mind! But, my favourite movie of 2022 has to be The Bucket List, a story detailing how two terminally-ill 65-ish men, with only six months to live, decided to explore the world and fulfill their dreams. It’s a movie I can watch over and over again. Plus, who wouldn’t love a movie that Morgan Freeman narrates?

 

Photo Credit: Letterboxd

READ ALSO: The Abbatoir Experience


Favourite TV Show: Last year consisted of completing loads of activities and actualising innumerable goals. How else could one relax after a long day than by watching a funny South Korean drama? Welcome to Waikiki was everything I needed to keep me happy and cheerful.

Photo Credit: Themoviedb

Best Buy: It has to be the sky blue mug I purchased. It’s lovely, portable, and the right fit for the amount of tea I consume on a daily basis!

Describing the Year in Two Words: Exciting & Frightening. 


RELATED ARTICLE: 8 Lessons from the Popular Web Series, 'This Is It.'

Haneefah 

If I'm to ever describe a year in which I struggled really hard to do the things I never saw or imagined myself doing, that would definitely be 2022. It was a long year with so many experiences for me. There were moments when I cried and wanted to run away from myself, but there were also moments that made me smile and laugh like I had nothing to worry about. Regardless of how my 2022 went, I'm still happy that I'm alive and still thriving to be a better version of myself every single day.


Most Memorable Moment 

On the 11th of February, 2022, I received one of the best pieces of news I've ever heard in my life. My heart paused for a second before racing fast after I got the news. I was called to represent my level (300L) as the best student in my department at the matriculation ceremony. 

That very day marked my third matriculation in a tertiary institution. But this particular matriculation was different from the others because it was considered an honorary matriculation due to my excellent performance in my results. It was, without a doubt, a dream come true for me.


Gripping Book

Photo credit: Goodreads

I started reading medical books in 2021, and I've never regretted reading them. The most gripping book I read in 2022 was also a medical book. 

Confessions Of A Surgeon: The Good, the Bad, and the Complicated...Life Behind The O.R. Doors by Paul A. Ruggieri, M.D. 

I read a couple of books in 2022, but none of them was as gripping as this book. It sums up almost everything about life and the realities of medicine. We've always heard stories about what happens in the O.R but we never got to know what really happens in it or how surgeons deal with medical complications. As the title implies, the writer opened the O.R doors and told us so many things that happens in it; how some surgeries are being carried out like the "exploratory surgery" that's been carried out on a patient to find out what's going on inside the body of a patient when the surgeon has no clue, how some surgeons carry out surgical procedures on a patient that didn't require surgery to begin with, or a patient that had to undergo another surgery due to the surgeon's negligence during surgery. The book talked about the good, bad, and complicated aspects of medicine and how doctors are easily drained out and are poorly paid compared to other professions that are not health related. 

There's a quote from the book that really amazed me, and it's something you would almost never hear from the mouth of a practicing doctor or surgeon, and that is: "Many surgeons, after ten years of practice, secretly can’t wait to get out of the business they worked so hard to get into.” It’s ironic.


Best Movie

Photo credit: Imdb.

The best movie I watched in 2022 is definitely "Candy Jar." The movie featured two brilliant high school students who participated in an extracurricular activity like a debate in order to create a brilliant portfolio that'd impress their college of choice. They were both serious competitors, and both had solid support from their school's counselor. The movie tells us how necessary it is to cherish and enjoy every moment in school while still reading and pursuing our goals in life because those moments can never be gotten back once they're lost. It also talked about the realities of life and how to not give up even if we don't get admitted into our choice of institution. In life, we wouldn't always get what we want but giving up means we're not ready to keep living because life would definitely throw rocks at us, all we need to do is build something for ourselves out of those rocks.


Favourite TV Show


My favourite TV show in 2022 is "Law School." I particularly enjoyed it because it featured a law school with brilliant law students and how they were able to navigate through life after the death of one of their professors. It was a serious series that entailed major details about the occurrence of a murder in a law school. There was no romance whatever, just a few flirtations, which made me really enjoy it. I also got to learn a lot about law, how it operates (although there were a few clichés in it, which is understandable because it's mainly for entertainment), and a few "law jargons." In short, it was a really nice watch.


Best Item You Purchased

The best thing I purchased in 2022 was a medical textbook. I was able to download so many medical books but was never able to download this particular one, so I was really happy to purchase it. As a medical laboratory science student, the textbook is  really essential for me to have in hard copy.


Describing The Year In 2 Words

Sad and Amazing.


Sunday, 15 May 2022

The Best Self-Care Checklist

 


We often underestimate the importance of self-care. Yet, this is essential for health, and it makes us happier and more organised.

This self-care checklist has been divided into various categories. Use these self-care checklist ideas as a guide to creating a self-care routine.

Relationship to Self

-          Have a quality night's rest

-          Exercise

-          Read a book you love



-          Watch a movie you love

-          Eat nutritious and healthy food

-          Adopt good personal hygiene

-          Wear dresses you adore

-          Solve a puzzle

-          Take a walk

-          Go on a weekend trip



-          Reflect and meditate

-          Avoid negative and toxic people

-          Cry if need be


RELATED ARTICLE: How to Become a Minimalist (7 Surefire Ways)

Relationship to Others

This self-care checklist centres on your relationship with your family and friends. You cannot avoid interacting with people in life. Your behaviours will have an impact on your relationship with people. Check out ways to improve your relationship with others:

-          Schedule time to spend with your family

-          Schedule time to spend with your friends

-          Schedule dates with your significant other.

-          Seek help if you need to

-          Contact the important people in your time

-          Create time to telephone friends and family members.

Relationship to Environment

A major force in your life is the environment. You may not know, but the environment influences you in several ways. You can make small, significant changes towards improving your environment.

-          Clean items in your home

-          Take a different route to the mall

-          Start a garden

-          Plant a tree

-          Water a plant

-          Declutter your home

-          Visit a nature park

RELATED ARTICLE: 6 Fascinating Facts about Coffee.

Relationship to Work and Money

Without creating boundaries and emotions, this can affect your time and lifestyle. Your well-being will be improved when you care for your work relationships.

-          Set limits with colleagues and co-workers

-          Go for lunch breaks



-          Complete your tasks with full concentration

-          Create time to engage in small talks with your colleagues at work

-          Seek help from a boss or co-worker when needed

-          Arrange your workspace

-          Balance your work and personal activities

-          Arrange your workspace

-          Open a savings account.

This self-care checklist will change your life positively. It will make you feel happier and more accomplished and fulfilled.


Sunday, 30 January 2022

Life and Everything in Between (Episode Twenty Five)


Over two months had passed since Rasheedah returned home and our lives swiftly returned to normal. Rasheedah had called off her engagement with Khalid and returned to school to prepare for her final exams. I had resigned from Fulaan and started working as a freelance writer.

 

Munir was also vigorously planning his wedding ceremony, and Asmau was heavily pregnant. I still hadn’t heard from Farouk. I’d flinch in fear and anticipation whenever my phone beeped with a notification, but sigh in disappointment when I realised that it was from someone else.

 

Asmau gobbled down the bowl of curry rice and steamed goat meat as she talked about how she had been spending her days at home. According to her, her daily routine was a mix of praying, eating, and sleeping. And her husband made the matter worse by fulfilling all of her cravings.

 

“Rafiah, can you believe that Hanif prepared this food as early as 06:00 am? He acts like he is on a mission to make me the happiest and fattest pregnant woman,” Asmau said as she gulped down her cup of orange juice.

 

I chuckled as I stared at her in amazement. “Isn’t that what you want? Gosh, Asmau! You’re three times your normal size.”

 

Asmau was dressed in an oversized black gown and her hair was braided into cornrows.  I gazed at her rotund figure and remembered how she had looked about seven months ago.

 

“Oh, whatever. Wait till I give birth. I’ll hit the gym and shed all of it!” Asmau remarked as she rolled her eyes.

 

It was a Saturday afternoon and I had decided to spend the rest of the day with Asmau while we caught up with the latest events and talk about Munir’s forthcoming wedding ceremony.

 

“Why have you been staring at your phone? Still expecting a message from Farouk?” Asmau asked as she stared at me with curious eyes.

 

I locked my phone and threw it on the sofa. “Oh, it’s nothing. I was just monitoring the reactions on a post I updated on Instagram this morning. Imagine, Asmau, I haven’t gotten up to 15 reactions since morning,” I sighed heavily as I continued eating.

 

“It’s a process. No one got it all in one day. You just have to remain consistent and continue putting your works out there,” Asmau advised.

 

“Thank you, Asmau. That’s exactly what I’m doing. It can be hard sometimes, but I’m trying.”

 

“How’s writing? Are you making progress?”

 

“Oh, yes I am. I’ve gotten close to five writing contracts this month. And I keep sending applications for full-time positions. I was invited for an interview earlier this week. Hopefully, I’ll get the job,” I said with a smile.

 

“I’m so proud of you, Rafiah! And your dad?” Asmau asked.

 

I chuckled. “I’m twenty-eight, Asmau. He’s got no choice,” I stated as I rose from my seat. “Can I get more of this? Your husband is such a good cook!”

 

“Yes, there is. Go check the pot,” Asmau said I walked towards the kitchen.

 

When I returned with a refilled plate, I caught Asmau peering at my phone.

“Mutmainah is calling again. That lady is obsessed with you,” Asmau said with a sigh.

 

“I’ve told her to let me be. It’s been months now. When will she give up?” I scowled as I picked up my phone and answered the call.

 

“Hey, Rafiah. How have you been?”

 

“When will this stop, Mutmainah?” I blurted out as I sank on the couch and placed my plate of rice on the nearby stool.

 

“I’m really sorry for keeping your sister hostage. I didn’t know what came over me,” Mutmainah begged and it sounded like she was crying.

 

“You’ve apologised countless times. Are you going to keep calling me to apologise? You’re supposed to be rotting in jail, Mutmainah. But, well, the wealthy ones are above the law,” I quipped, rolling my eyes in disgust.

 

“I wasn’t in my right senses and regret doing that for Khalid. We’re still not going to get married. It’s obvious that he never liked me. I need you back as my friend. You’re different from others. Please, Rafiah, the short period I spent with you was different.”

 

“You can’t keep forcing people into your lives. That’s what you were trying to do with Khalid. You’re doing the same right now. It won’t happen, Mutmainah. I can never be your friend. I’m eating, so I can’t talk much. I wish you all the best,” I said as I ended the call and raised my head to see Asmau’s husband, Jamal, placing a tape rule over her nose. I didn’t even realise when he came into the living room to join us.

 

Asmau giggled and ran around the room. “Look at what my husband does all the time! He measures the size of my bulging nose to tease me. Is it my fault that my nose appears twice larger than the normal size?”

 

“Well, I’m here to tease you until it returns to normal. Just take a look at the nose, Rafiah. Are you not amazed?” Jamal gave a peal of throaty laughter as he stared at her face in admiration.

 

I picked up my bag and forced a smile. “I…think I should be leaving.”

 

Asmau shook her head. “Oh, no. We haven’t chosen a style for Munir’s wedding. You can’t just leave like that.”

 

“Well, it’s getting late. We can always discuss that via WhatsApp,” I explained. “It’s good to see you again, Jamal.”

 

“Thanks for visiting, Rafiah. You’re always welcome to spend time with my naughty wife,” he chuckled.

 

“Let me see you off,” Asmau said as she wore her khimar and tailed me to the door.

 

As we stepped out of the building, Asmau turned towards me. “Did you ever like Munir? I mean…wish that you guys were together?”

 

“Yes, when we first met. Though, it was only a simple crush. It faded after meeting Farouk. I fell head over heels with him,” I replied.

 

“You know, there might be a genuine…”

 

“There’s no genuine reason for not responding to my message for months. I know I was wrong to have lashed out at him that day. But, what do you expect of someone searching for her only sister? I’ve apologised, what else? He’s just a proud person who never forgives,” I said as I spotted an okada rider.

 

 

“Let me be on my way, Asmau. We’ll talk better tomorrow. Bye!”

***

 

I arrived home about thirty minutes later to the sight of Mom running towards the entrance. I tried to maneuver my way into the house, but Mom kept shoving me away with a loud laugh.

 

“You cannot enter, Rafiah,” Mom stated as she grinned from ear to ear.

 

I eyed her suspiciously. “Why? Are you hiding something from me?”

 

“Well…” Mom adjusted my red-coloured veil and smiled at me. “You may go now.”

 

I sighed heavily as I stepped into the living room, wondering what could have happened in there. Did they suddenly change the seven-year-old curtains when I was away? Or, had Rasheedah returned from school? I almost squealed in shock when I spotted Farouk sitting on the sofa beside Dad.

 

 

He smiled at me and stood from the seat. “Asalamu ‘alaykum, Rafiah. I am so sorry for everything. If you can grant me the chance to explain everything to you,” he said with pleading eyes.

 

Farouk was dressed in his usual t-shirt-and-pair-of-jeans attire, and he appeared leaner than the last time I set eyes on him. His face also looked ashen. “Wa’alaykumu salam. Okay, I’ll be back,” I said as I glanced at Dad to see him nod in approval.

 

Mom was still smiling and I had just noticed that she had served Farouk a plate of fried rice and croaker fish.

 

I entered the room and called Asmau immediately I sat on the bed. She picked at the first ring. “What’s up?”

 

“Farouk is here!” I said with a breathless tone.

 

“What do mean Farouk is here? Isn’t he in Morocco?”

 

“It feels like I am dreaming. He’s right here, in the living room, discussing with my parents!”

 

“Oh my gosh! Are you serious? How did you react?”

 

“I was dazed. I was…I told him that I’ll return soon. I think my parents like him. My mom served him fried rice. Imagine! She never cooked such for Tolu,” I explained as I raised both hands.

 

“You have to act angry. Don’t forgive him so easily, okay?”

 

“Okay. Got to go. I need to freshen up,” I said as I ended up the call and hurried to the bathroom.

***

When I returned to the living room, Farouk was neck-deep in a conversation with Dad. I was contemplating returning to the room when Dad stood up. “Let me not prevent you guys from discussing. We can always continue our discussion, Farouk,” Dad said as he started walking towards the room. “It’s glad to finally meet you in person,” he smiled at Farouk.

 

“Same here, sir,” Farouk said before turning towards me. “So, can we talk now?” Farouk glanced up at me nervously.

 

“Yeah, I guess so. Let’s use the verandah.”

 

“Okay,” he started. “I initially travelled to Morocco to unwind. But then, I became terribly ill. The kind of illness that requires visiting the surgical theatre,” he explained.

 

SubhanaLlaah. I had no idea,” I gasped in surprise.

 

Farouk waved a hand. “It’s a simple surgery, really. However, I spent weeks in the hospital. I didn’t even have the time and strength to check my phone,” he laughed briefly. “But, Alhamdulillaah, I’m fine now. I am so sorry I couldn’t reach out to you all this while. It wasn’t intentional,” he explained.

 

“Why didn’t you tell Munir about it? What if something worse had happened?”

 

Farouk shrugged. “Well, I’m not particularly close to my brother. And I knew that he was busy with his wedding plans. I wouldn’t want to disrupt that by making him travel down to Morocco,” Farouk stated.

 

“Why aren’t you close to Munir? It’s just you, him, and Adam. What example are you setting for your younger brother, Adam?”

 

“I don’t know, Rafiah. Everything you’ve said is correct. We are meant to be really close, what with the fact that we are the only ones left. But…I don’t know. The death of our parents loosened our bond instead of tightening it. That’s why I admire your relationship with Rasheedah. I’m glad she was found hale and hearty.”

 

“Yeah, it’s not too late. You’re the eldest child and it’s your responsibility to make that happen,” I advised.

 

“You’re right about that. I’ll try my best. I mean, I wouldn’t have found you if not for Munir. So tell me, Rafiah, can we still make this work? Am I too late?”

 

“You’re not too late, Farouk. I’m glad to know you’re healthier and…”

 

“Is that a yes?” Farouk asked hesitantly.

 

“It’s a yes!” I said in excitement.

 

Farouk grinned widely. “Thank you so much, Rafiah. This is the best news I’ve heard this month. Thank you for bringing joy into my life and making me believe in love again,” he said amidst tears.

 

“And lest I forget, I’m now a professional writer,” I blurted out as I made a quick dance.

 

“Really? When did that happen? Tell me all about it!” Farouk said in anticipation as he stared at me.

***

‘Hey, beautiful. Despite being a writer, I suck at writing love letters. So, please, take this as you see it. Ignore the grammatical blunders and cringe-worthy words and see it as a text coming from someone who is madly in love with you.

 

I can’t specifically recall the exact moment I fell in love with you, but I was awe-struck when I saw you for the first time. You were dressed in a mustard-coloured shirt and those black maxi skirts I’d later know you with. You had this gracious look that could not be faked, and believe me, it took so much effort to avoid staring at you.

 

What kept me going when I was bedridden were the memories I’d shared with you. The sight of you closing your eyes to relish the taste of afang soup and laughing at one of my weird jokes.

 

I love you so much, Rafiah. More than you can ever imagine. I’ll never find someone this beautiful and smart and talented. I’m so blessed to have met you.

 

We are going to be spending the rest of our lives together. Phew! That would be such an adventure, Rafiah, and I cannot wait to visit new places and try new delicacies. We wouldn’t have it perfect all the time. There would moments of happiness and sadness, but sharing these happy times and sad moments, together, will be what matters.

 

And yes, I am really eager to nurture our dream children; Aisha and Muawiyyah.

 

Thank you for choosing to become my wife.

 

Yours truly,

Farouk.

 

“Are you done?” Farouk’s voice distracted me from rereading the message he had sent to my email.

 

It was a day to Munir’s wedding and we were all gathered for the rehearsal dinner. I cleaned my misty eyes and put down my phone. “When did you compose this?”

 

Farouk snickered. “Is that all you have to say? Really?”

 

“Oh, I have other things to say. It is a very beautiful piece. Thank you so much, Farouk,” I was saying when Bushrah entered the hall, dressed in a glamorous emerald gown.

 

“Oh my! Bushrah looks sooo beautiful,” I squealed in admiration.

 

“I can’t wait to see you in yours,” Farouk gave me an affectionate smile. “By the way, where’s Asmau? I thought she’d be attending the wedding?” he asked.

 

“That’s true. Let me try calling her,” I said as I picked up my phone and dialled Asmau’s number.

 

“Hello,” Jamal’s croaky voice greeted my ears.

 

“Asalamu ‘alaykum, Jamal. Where is Asmau?”

 

“Wa’alaykumu…salam,” he said with a shaky voice. “Asmau is currently in the hospital. She had some complications, so we had to rush her into the theatre for delivery. Well, the good news is that we have a baby girl! Asmau is doing very fine, though she can’t talk to anyone now,” Jamal prattled and it was obvious that he was shedding tears.

 

I tried to respond to him, but words failed me. My eyes moistened with tears as I thought about the pains my best friend must have experienced. And I was glad that she and the baby were healthy. I cleared my throat and nodded at Farouk, who was staring at me with a look of worry. “I’ll be on my way right now! The same hospital, right? Green Maze?”

 

“Yes,” Jamal replied. “I’ll be expecting you. Got to go. The doctor needs me,” he said and hung up the call.

 

“What happened? Is Asmau fine?” Farouk asked.

 

“Yes, yes. She is fine. Can you drive me to the hospital?”

 

“Yeah, sure! I’d quickly explain why we’re leaving to Munir, and we’ll get going,” Farouk said as he stood up and hurried towards where Munir was standing.

 

Munir’s eyes widened in shock after Farouk relayed the information. He ran towards me with fear and anxiety. “Can we all go? I really need to be sure that she is fine,” he said.

 

“What about your rehearsal dinner?”

 

“This isn’t the real wedding. And this can continue without me. Let’s be on our way please!” Munir answered.

 

As we walked towards where Farouk’s car was parked with worry in our eyes, I realized that we were already a family and we’d always be there for one another, no matter what happens.

 

I couldn’t wait to hold Asmau’s baby in my arms and watch Asmau raise her with so much love and tenderness. I was also eager to watch Munir walk down the aisle with the love of his life, Bushrah, and celebrate their special day with them. And I was waiting, breathlessly, for the day Farouk would pull me into a hug and kiss my lips passionately while he promises me a happy-ever-after.

 

A/N: Words are insufficient to express my gratitude for sticking through and patiently following this story, despite the ups and downs that occurred over the past few months.

I appreciate your messages, comments, tags, and most of all, the time you’ve created to read the episodes. Thank you so much.

If you’re new here, kindly start from the first episode. You have twenty-five episodes to complete!!!


Episode One

Episode Two

Episodes Three & Four

Episode Five

Episodes Six & Seven

Episode Eight

Episode Nine

Episode Ten

Episode Eleven






Episode Seventeen 

 Episode Eighteen

Episode Nineteen

Episode Twenty

Episodes Twenty-Two, Twenty-Three, & Twenty-Four