After making my intentions to perform Hajj last year, the time is so close! It is just hours before I embark on the greatest journey of my life. Not only is this the first international trip I will take, but it is also the fifth pillar of Islam* that I will fulfill as a Muslim. My family and community are excited and I'm still digesting it all.
Earlier today, as we approached our connector flight from O'Hare, two ladies from Atlanta and I reflected on our Hajj blessings. As many other spiritual people believe, when you begin working towards something good God will put things in place to assist you. My own pre-Hajj blessings include a great school interview, the blessing of even obtaining a visa for this trip, and the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
While all of these wonderful blessings and more are on the horizon, I feel concerned for what and who I'm leaving behind. I'm praying my family and other loved ones stay safe and that my car and apartment are safe too! I'm honestly not looking forward to this 12hr fight I'm waiting to board, but I'm grateful and excited. I trust God will keep us safe during our journey and that we will return to find our loved ones and property safe and sound.
For now I await cramped legs and the legends of yummy international flight airline food. Hear-say, don't fail me now...
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On the Five Pillars of Islam
The Five Pillars are the basic tenants of religious practice one fulfills as a Muslim and follower of Islam. These pillars consist of:
1) Shahadah: proclamation of faith that there is only one God and Muhammad (sal) is His messenger
2) Salat (or prayer): Praying toward the direction of the Ka'ba five times a day
3) Zakat (Alms giving or charity): giving of charity to those in need
4) Fasting: Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan from sunrise to sunset for 30 days
5) Hajj: The pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia at least once in a life time if you can afford to go and are physically able to go
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