Muslims have had it rough, but they learned long ago that life is not just about going to school or work, eating, and sleeping. The Quran makes it clear that we all have a greater purpose and humans are not created in vain, and the pandemic has made many realize this. While some people gave up on work and pursued their “dreams because life is too fragile,” Muslims know well that we owe more to our Creator for our Hereafter than lamenting about problems. Alhamdulillah, the pandemic and other challenges did not derail us. Instead, Muslims have used it as a positive restart.

Allah (SWT) and His Prophet (SAW) emphasize the importance of consistent effort and hard work towards achieving our goals, as obstacles, failures, and challenges are often part of the journey. In Surah Qasas (24:77) Allah (SWT) tells us to seek the Hereafter through what He has given us while not forgetting our share of the world. We should strive to do good, as Allah (SWT) has done good to us,and not desire corruption in the land. This ayah helps us strive towards a balance coupled with appreciation, hardwork and consistancy.

One way to continually make progress towards our worldly and hereafter goals is to break them down into smaller, achievable steps and establish a plan or system to work towards them. Just as the five daily prayers are part of our routine, developing a routine that includes regular practice for other activities can help us greatly. Allah (SWT) also talks about accountability, as in, hold yourself accountable before you are held accountable. Thus, as we aim to achieve our goals, we also need someone who has our best interest at heart to help us continually develop our habits that support our progress. When we study the lives of the Sahaba, we see nothing short of this.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.