A letter to Hold On To

To my loving wife and son,

Today marks the departure day that Papa is leaving for Umrah. Even though my heart feels heavy for leaving both of you, and our little baby girl in mama’s tummy, it also feels light at the same time too - knowing that there is no better replacement in my presence than Allah’s.

I have complete faith and trust that He will oversee our family and affairs in the best way possible in my absence.

Having said that, do know that I will carry our little family in my heart while I’m at the Haram and my lips will pray for all of us endlessly there.

I pray for my wife’s stature to be elevated to the highest level and to be rewarded bountifully for your sacrifices.

I pray for our children to be amongst those who have deen, loves Allah and His Messenger, to be loving and kind towards one another, and to be the calmness to our hearts.

To my hero of a son, Daniel,

You may or may not remember this day after it has passed but when you read back on this, know that Papa loves you so much and I enjoyed our bonding time over the past few days. Papa was so proud of how fast you overcame your fears in the pool and how well you are catching and throwing balls now. InsyaAllah, papa will continue to spend time with you again.

To our little baby girl,

I pray you will grow up to be a healthy, beautiful, intelligent, faithful servant to Allah.

To my pillar of strength, the light of my life, my sayang,

I thank Allah for putting you in my life. You bring so much joy into my life. Everyday, I am grateful for the chance to call you my wife and I can’t wait to be reunited with you, insyaAllah.

Remember my only advice - Lilahita’ala - All of these for Allah.

Till we meet again,

Lovingly Papa