"I've always believed in God, and it's given me unending strength."
-Zainub Khatoon
Author: Stuti Ajmera
August, 2021
Friendship -- what a beautiful relationship to have. They are neither family nor strangers; they are simply a few people who see the real you, and I consider myself fortunate to have them in my life.
After both of my parents died, my grandmother became my sole caregiver. I used to frequently ask Allah, "Why me?" Looking at my friends sharing their family stories made me feel estranged and jealous, but Allah kept me company. I would frequently pray to him and confide in him.
My grandmother and I have an unbreakable love bond. We share memories and life lessons, and we are there for each other through thick and thin. She treats me as if I were her own daughter rather than her granddaughter.
I missed my track while pursuing my graduation. I was very keen on my studies, but it wasn't working out, and I became depressed. I knew I wanted to study more, so I chose to fight my way out of it. Despite her conservative outlook, my grandmother and my sister were my staunchest supporters. Fortunately, I came back to the originality of life shortly after graduating.
I'm still wondering if I was just lucky to get this far. My friends were pillars of strength for me when I needed them the most, and I will be eternally grateful. I've always believed in God, and it's given me unending strength. It is critical to have faith and believe in yourself. Remind yurself that no bad situation lasts forever, and that the one ladder you must cling to in order to move forward in life is hope. Remember that if today is a bad day, tomorrow is a new day and it will be better.