Monthly Archives: September 2023

“Book of Loss”

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled between rolling hills, there lived a wise old man named Hassan. Hassan was known for his deep wisdom and profound knowledge of ancient texts. Among the villagers, there was a mysterious book that had been passed down through generations, known as the “Book of Loss.”
The Book of Loss was said to contain secrets of great significance, but its contents remained a mystery to all except for a select few who had dared to read it. Many villagers were curious about its contents, but they hesitated, fearing the loss it might bring upon them.
One day, a group of villagers gathered around Hassan, seeking his guidance. They asked him about the Book of Loss and whether they should read it. Hassan, with his calm demeanor, replied, “Forgive those who have read the Book of Loss, for it is said that God will answer their prayers and bestow blessings upon them, both in private and public places, beyond what they have received.”
Hassan encouraged them not to fear the potential loss but to have faith in the divine plan. He said, “Let them hope for a trade that does not suffer losses, and God will not only give them their full rewards but also grant them more of His gifts. He is forgiving and appreciative.”
The villagers, inspired by Hassan’s wisdom, decided to read the Book of Loss. As they delved into its pages, they discovered profound teachings and guidance for leading a life filled with purpose and compassion. The book revealed that it confirmed the messages of the previous holy books, shedding light on the interconnectedness of all faiths.
Over time, the villagers applied the wisdom from the Book of Loss in their daily lives. They prayed earnestly, not just for themselves but for the well-being of the entire community. Acts of kindness and generosity became a common sight in the village, both in private and public spaces.
As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, the villagers witnessed a transformation in their lives. They found themselves blessed with abundance, both material and spiritual. Their fear of loss had been replaced by a deep sense of gratitude and trust in the divine.
The village prospered, and its people became known far and wide for their unwavering faith and generosity. The Book of Loss had not brought them misfortune, as they had feared, but had instead opened the doors to a life of fulfillment and harmony.
And so, in this small village, the wisdom of Hassan and the teachings of the Book of Loss continued to guide generations, reminding them that faith, forgiveness, and a willingness to trust in the divine plan could lead to a life rich in blessings and love.
©️ Holistic Coach Shana
All rights reserved

“Revelation”

In the heart of a bustling city, there lived a man named Amir. Amir was a scholar, known for his wisdom and his ability to decipher the hidden meanings of ancient texts. He had spent years studying the stars, the patterns of the natural world, and the human soul. Amir’s quest for knowledge had led him on a journey of enlightenment, and he often found himself pondering the mysteries of existence.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Amir climbed to the rooftop of his modest home. There, under the vast expanse of the night sky, he began to reflect on the signs he had observed in the world around him. He marveled at the intricate design of a spider’s web glistening in the moonlight, the rhythm of the ocean waves crashing against the shore, and the resilience of a tiny seed that sprouted into a towering tree.
As Amir gazed at the stars, he contemplated the interconnectedness of all things. He believed that every element of the universe held a purpose, just as every word in a grand narrative had significance. He had a deep sense that there was a hidden truth waiting to be uncovered, a truth that would illuminate the path of humanity.
Amir’s thoughts were interrupted by a knock at his door. It was his old friend, Samir, a merchant who had traveled far and wide in search of riches. Samir had heard of Amir’s wisdom and had come seeking guidance.
“Amir,” Samir began, “I have acquired wealth beyond my wildest dreams, yet I feel empty inside. I have seen the wonders of the world, but I cannot find peace. Please, help me find meaning in this life.”
Amir welcomed Samir in and invited him to sit. He poured them both a cup of fragrant tea and spoke, “Samir, the answers you seek may be found in the signs all around us. Just as the natural world holds secrets waiting to be uncovered, so too does the human soul.”
Amir shared stories of the spider’s web, the ocean waves, and the resilient seed. He explained how these signs held deeper meanings, teaching lessons of patience, resilience, and interconnectedness. Samir listened intently, his eyes filled with curiosity.
“Amir,” Samir said, “I understand now that there is more to life than the pursuit of wealth. But how can I find my purpose? How can I discover the truth that you speak of?”
Amir smiled and replied, “The journey to discover one’s purpose is a personal one, Samir. It requires self-reflection and a willingness to seek the truth within. Just as the stars above hold their mysteries, so too does the human heart.”
Samir left Amir’s home that night with a newfound sense of purpose. He embarked on a journey of self-discovery, spending time in solitude and contemplation. He found solace in the quiet of nature, where he could hear the whispers of the wind and the rustling of leaves.
One day, while meditating by a serene river, Samir had a profound revelation. He realized that true wealth was not measured in material possessions but in the richness of one’s soul. He understood that the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom was a noble endeavor, and he decided to dedicate his life to it.
Years passed, and Samir became known as a scholar in his own right. He shared his insights with others, helping them find meaning and purpose in their lives. He, too, climbed to the rooftop of his home each night, gazing at the stars and pondering the signs of the universe.
One evening, Amir and Samir met again, their paths having converged once more. They shared stories of their journeys and the wisdom they had gained along the way.
“Amir,” Samir said, “I owe my newfound purpose and fulfillment to you. You opened my eyes to the signs all around us, just as the Quran speaks of signs in the world and within ourselves.”
Amir nodded in agreement, for he had also found deeper meaning in his own quest for knowledge and understanding. Together, they continued to explore the mysteries of existence, guided by the signs that surrounded them.
And so, the two friends, Amir and Samir, continued their lifelong pursuit of truth and enlightenment, inspired by the signs of the universe and the wisdom of their own hearts. They knew that the journey was ongoing, and that the path to true understanding was illuminated by the signs that revealed themselves along the way.
©️ Holistic Coach Shana
All rights reserved

“The Three Messengers: A Tale of Divine Redemption”

In a village nestled deep within the shadows of ancient, unforgiving mountains, a community dwelled whose hearts had grown as hard as the rugged terrain that surrounded them. These villagers had strayed far from the path of righteousness, and their deeds had taken a dark turn. They were a people mired in wickedness, their actions a testament to their moral decay.
In this secluded village, a divine intervention unfolded. Three messengers, chosen by the heavens, were sent to guide these wayward souls back to the path of goodness and light. These messengers were not ordinary folk; they were vessels of divine wisdom, their hearts brimming with boundless compassion.
The first two messengers arrived on a tranquil morning, greeted by the whispering of leaves and the melodious songs of birds. With voices as gentle as the breeze, they approached the villagers, sharing the message of love, forgiveness, and compassion. “We are messengers of the Divine,” they proclaimed. “We are here to lead you back to the righteous path.”
However, the villagers, shrouded in the darkness of their deeds, scoffed at the messengers. They regarded them as mere mortals, no different from themselves. “You are nothing more than ordinary beings,” they mocked, “and the Divine has revealed nothing to you. Your words are but falsehoods.”
Undeterred by the villagers’ cynicism, the messengers responded with patience and humility. “Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you,” they explained, “and our sole purpose is to convey His message of love, forgiveness, and redemption.”
But the villagers clung to their malevolent ways. They accused the messengers of being omens of misfortune, threatening them with violence. “Should you persist,” they warned, “we shall surely cast stones upon you, and a grievous torment will be your fate.”
Yet, the messengers stood their ground. They continued to share their message of hope and salvation, their hearts steadfast in unwavering faith in their divine mission. They fervently prayed for the villagers’ hearts to soften, for them to recognize the profound truth.
As the days passed into weeks, the villagers’ malevolence only grew stronger. “Your presence is a harbinger of wickedness,” they proclaimed. “Do you seek to remind us of our transgressions? You are but misguided souls.”
Still, the messengers pressed onward, their spirits unbroken. They knew they were entrusted with a sacred mission, and their faith in the Divine’s guidance remained unwavering. They believed in the transformative power of divine love, even in the face of the most profound darkness.
And so, the story of the three messengers and the malevolent village became a timeless parable of faith, resilience, and the redemptive potential of divine guidance. It serves as a poignant reminder that, no matter how steeped in darkness, even the most wicked souls can find their way back to the path of goodness and light with the grace of forgiveness and salvation.
©️ Holistic Coach Shana
All rights reserved

“Whispers of the Enchanted Canvas”

In a corner of the world, so snug and small,
Young Aria stood with canvas, dreams enthralled.
Her brushes, colors, and imagination’s call,
To paint a tale that from her heart would sprawl.
The ancient forest, secrets it would confide,
With trees like dancers in the moonlight’s tide.
A silver glow, from the heavens did it slide,
Embrace the earth, in its gentle arms, beside.
Her brush, a wand, dipped in colors so profound,
The moonlit forest danced, with whispers bound.
Shadows swirled, as nature’s stories unwound,
Of courage and wonder, in colors she found.
Her fingers waltzed, much like leaves in the breeze,
Invisible strokes, painted worlds at ease.
Colors converged, a grand symphony to appease,
Old friends holding hands, in harmony, they’d seize.
Her feet, they floated, above the earthly ground,
On the canvas of dreams, her steps would resound.
Footprints of starlight, in the night, they were found,
Tales of the forest, in each one, were tightly wound.
The trees spoke wisdom, their voices soft and true,
Leaves giggled secrets, their laughter like morning dew.
The forest, her muse, in whispers, it drew,
Guided her hand, as art and nature anew.
As dawn’s first light awakened the world from its dreams,
Aria gazed upon her canvas, it seemed,
A window to enchantment, where reality gleams,
The ancient forest’s magic, in her art, streams.
She may be but a child, in artistry’s grand scheme,
Yet the Nadhiyah Grove and Neshamalai, it would seem,
Are not mere stories, in her heart, they beam,
With imagination and brushes, their ancient tale she’d redeem.
©️ Holistic Coach Shana
All rights reserved

Diffusing Anger: Six Steps to Emotional Regulation

Anger is a powerful emotion that resides in the mind and, when left unchecked, can lead to destructive consequences. It’s essential to understand anger, both in ourselves and in others, and to learn how to manage it effectively. In this article, we will explore a comprehensive six-step approach to diffusing anger, promoting empathy, and fostering understanding. By following these principles, you can empower yourself and those around you to navigate the challenging terrain of anger and conflict with grace and compassion.

Understanding the Nature of Anger

Anger is a complex emotion that can be triggered by various factors, such as frustration, fear, or a perceived injustice. It often manifests as a reaction to unmet emotional needs or a sense of powerlessness. Recognizing the presence of anger, whether in ourselves or in others, is the first step toward managing it constructively.

The Importance of Managing Anger

Uncontrolled anger can lead to strained relationships, damaged personal well-being, and societal discord. Learning how to manage and diffuse anger is not just a personal skill; it’s a crucial tool for promoting harmony and empathy in our interactions with others.

The Six Steps to Diffusing Anger:

#Step 1: Acknowledge

The first step in diffusing anger is to acknowledge its presence. When faced with an angry individual, it’s vital to recognize that their anger is not about you but about their emotions. Avoid reacting defensively or with anger of your own, as this can escalate the situation. Instead, acknowledge the other person’s anger without judgment.

#Step 2: Validate

Validation is the art of acknowledging and accepting someone’s emotions, even if you may not agree with their perspective. By validating the other person’s anger, you convey that you value their feelings and are there to help. Maintain a calm and soothing tone during this step to create a safe space for dialogue.

#Step 3: Empathy

To truly diffuse anger, it’s essential to go deeper and empathize with the person’s emotional state. Try to understand the root causes of their anger and the emotional needs that are not being met. Put yourself in their shoes and realize that, at this point, the situation is not personal. By mirroring or reflecting their emotions, you can establish a connection based on empathy.

#Step 4: Understanding

Step 4 involves sharing your perspective with empathy. While gently expressing your viewpoint, ensure that your communication remains compassionate and non-confrontational. The goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for open dialogue, allowing both parties to understand each other better.

#Step 5: Connect

As the person begins to calm down, it’s time to physically support them and build heart-to-heart connections. Offer gestures of physical support, such as comforting touches or hugs, to reinforce your empathy. These physical connections can be incredibly healing and help bridge emotional gaps.

#Step 6: Solutions

The final step in diffusing anger is to work together toward solutions. Ask open-ended questions to guide the individual in finding their resolutions. Avoid imposing solutions on them, as this can invalidate their input and reignite anger. Be a trusted collaborator, actively listen to their concerns, and offer mentoring advice for moving forward together. Additionally, take this opportunity for self-reflection to prevent repeating the same mistakes.

Conclusion

Anger is a powerful, base-level emotion that, when left unaddressed, can escalate into rage. By following the six steps outlined in this guide, you can empower yourself and others to control and diffuse anger effectively. Remember that these steps require patience, active listening, and a genuine desire to help. Ultimately, diffusing anger is not just about resolving immediate conflicts; it’s a journey toward emotional mastery that leads to stronger relationships and personal growth. By promoting empathy and understanding, we can create a more harmonious world, one interaction at a time.

©️ Holistic Coach Shana
All rights reserved

 

“Yasmeen’s Guiding Light: A Tribute in Verse”

In memory of Yasmeen Olya, a soul so bright,
Whose radiance brought warmth in the darkest night.
With an angelic voice, she sang from her heart,
A melody of love, a work of art.

But cancer’s cruel grasp took her away,
Leaving us with memories, tears, and dismay.
Her pure light in this world, now lost from sight,
Yet her spirit lives on, a guiding light.

In the quiet moments, we still hear her song,
A reminder that in our hearts, she belongs.
Her laughter, her smile, so vivid and clear,
In our minds and our souls, she’ll always be near.

Though our tears may fall, and our hearts feel the ache,
We know she’s in a better place, for heaven’s sake.
Watching over us, with love shining bright,
Guiding us through the day and the night.

Yasmeen Olya, our dear friend so dear,
In our memories, you’re forever near.
Your love and your light, they’ll never fade,
In our hearts, the impact you’ve made.

Rest in peace, dear Yasmeen, so free,
In God’s loving arms, eternally.
Your spirit lives on, forever in flight,
Our dear friend Yasmeen, a guiding light.

Home

Mother Mary

In Bethlehem’s quiet, starlit night,
A mother cradled a sacred light.
Mary, chosen to bear a divine grace,
In her arms, love’s tender embrace.

A gentle soul, so pure and mild,
Mary, the mother of the holy child.
Her love, a beacon in the darkest hour,
A symbol of God’s mercy and power.

A guiding star in a world so dim,
Her faith unwavering, her heart a hymn.
She nurtured the Savior, God’s own plan,
With love and care, she raised the Son of Man.

In her eyes, a wisdom profound,
In her heart, a love that knew no bound.
Through trials and tribulations, she stood strong,
With grace, she faced every trial and wrong.

The light of Mary, a radiant glow,
In her love, the world would come to know.
A mother’s devotion, pure and true,
An eternal flame, forever renew.

From humble beginnings, a story unfolds,
The love of a mother, in history’s scrolls.
Mary, a symbol of love’s endless might,
Guiding us all towards the heavenly light.

Al-Ḥajar al-Aswad

In the heart of Kaaba’s sacred space,
Lies a treasure, a heavenly trace.
A stone as black as the deepest night,
A symbol of faith, a guiding light.

The Black Stone, ancient and revered,
With stories of pilgrims, its history’s steered.
A gift from heaven, a meteor’s descent,
A piece of paradise, to earth, it was sent.

A relic of prophets, kissed by the blessed,
In its ebony hue, hearts find rest.
Circled by pilgrims in worship and praise,
It marks the start of their Hajj’s phase.

As the Kaaba’s cornerstone, it stands with grace,
A connection to God, a sacred embrace.
Though black as coal, it shines so bright,
Guiding souls towards the eternal light.

O Black Stone, witness to countless dreams,
Where faith and devotion eternally streams.
In your sacred presence, hearts find home,
As pilgrims kiss your surface, they’re never alone.

Hajer-Symbol of boundless love

In Mecca’s sacred sands, beneath the scorching sun,
A mother’s love and faith, a journey just begun.
Hajer, a name that echoes through the ages past,
Her strength and resilience, a story meant to last.

Amidst the arid desert, she ran from Safa to Marwa’s crest,
In search of life’s sustenance, her heart put to the test.
With Isma’il, her beloved son, her hope in God unwavering,
She ran seven times between those hills, her faith forever engraving.

Her call for water echoed in the valley’s empty space,
A mother’s desperate plea, a longing to embrace,
The gift of God’s provision, a miracle in disguise,
The blessed Zamzam spring, a wellspring that never dries.

Hajer, a symbol of strength, of a mother’s boundless love,
Her faith, her determination, inspired from up above.
Her footsteps on that sacred path, a testament of grace,
In the timeless journey of Hajj, her legacy we embrace.

Prophet Abraham

In the ancient sands of Abraham’s birth,
A prophet chosen for his endless worth.
Ibrahim, upon the sacred earth,
A man of God, his soul’s eternal hearth.

With heart ablaze, he sought the truth’s own girth,
Rejecting idols, he turned to God’s true worth.
In fire unscathed, he proved his faith’s great birth,
A testament to God’s protecting mirth.

He journeyed far, through deserts of the earth,
His trust in Allah, his only guide from birth.
A father of nations, his legacy’s wide girth,
Through Isma’il and Ishaq, his spiritual hearth.

A friend of God, his life displayed the worth,
Of unwavering faith, from the time of his birth.
Prophet Ibrahim, a light for all on earth,
His story, in God’s wisdom, holds great rebirth.