2013.. Memories forever.

For many, this year (2013) brought happiness, joy and love. But, for me as an individual it came as a reminder. A reminder to make myself a better person.

The first day of 2013 began with the tahajud prayers, whilst millions were busy partying. Ahmadi Muslims were busy praising their Lord, thanking him for giving another opportunity to succeed. To make ourselves better. What followed in the coming months were the reminders.

In the next 3 months,  Muslim world was all over the place, with Egyptians fighting for freedom, Libyans crying for mercy, Pakistanis killing each other. They all had one thing in common; Arrogance.

They had the chance to accept the truth and be a part of the wealthiest community, in form of the sprituality. To come and accept that the truth has prevailed, but they didn't. Rather, they continued torturing Ahmadis. In disguise they were torturing themselves, and their generations to come. On the other hand, the community they were torturing (as they would say) was growing, faster than the speed of light. The message of Peace was reaching the corners of the earth. The Caliph of Promised Messiah was serving mankind and calling everyone towards the path of the righteous. At that moment, I realised how lucky I've been throughout my life. How close I've been to Islam, the real Islam, the Peaceful Religion for all. Had it not been for my great-grand-grand dad accepting the Reformer, and the Promised Messiah and entering into the fold of Islam on his hand, Our family would be just as good as a moon in the daylight. I realised the beauty this Spiritual community holds.

Having accepted the gift of God, in form of Ahmadiyyat. Love of our beloved Huzoor (May Allah be his helper) protected us from the evil. His prayers were, and are like the guardians to us, covering our weak points and helping us in our daily lives.

Reminder; Pray for others, so that they are guided

Then came the time to attend the annual convention of United Kingdom. Our hearts cried as we reached London, finally in the same country as our beloved. Praying behind him brought tears to our eyes, seeing him brought warmth to our hearts. His gestures of kindness soaked our hearts. It felt like our life was finally complete. The spiritual essence was in each and every Believer. A thought triggered my mind. Had it not been for this community, what would i do with my life? I found no answer. Speechless.

Another reminder ; Be an active member.

The day we met the leader of Faithfuls, we couldn't control the emotions. The way Huzoor held my hand, The way Huzoor smiled, the way Huzoor guided us. No other leader in this world could. Yet, this Holy servant, Mirza Masroor Ahmad..(May Allah be his helper) didn't just guide us, but also reminded us that it is ourselves who make this community a peaceful community.

Another Reminder ; Be grateful to Allah for how he guided us.

The time in United Kingdom was well spent. The convention refreshed our souls and spiritually enlightened us with the love for Lord.

Having arrived back in Dubai, the life was different. But, thanks to Muslims Television Ahmadiyya and some fellow tweeples who kept us all updated with the golden words of Khalifa. Many friday sermons were heard worldwide, many friday sermons were read online, loads of golden quotes were shared. All thanks to the Lord. Who guided us all in the right direction.

Then came the last week of December, The Jalsa everyone waits for. Jalsa Salana Qadian. Another chance to catch a glimpse of the Chosen One, another chance to listen and follo the Golden words of The Chosen One.

With the concluding address, the last sermon of year 2013 came to an end. Smiles all around, millions prayed for a succesful 2014.

Love for All, Hatred for None.  

- "I shall cause thy message to reach the corners of the Earth"

Written by : Adeel Yousaf