REPENTANCE
The word Tawbah (Repentance) in Arabic literally means 'toreturn'. In an Islamic context, it refers to the act of leavingwhat Allaah has prohibited and returning to what He hascommanded.The subject of repentance is one which concerns all people whobelieve in God, and is vital one for the Muslims to understandbecause our salvation in the hereafter is dependent on ourrepentance to Allaah, as is shown by Allaah's order: "AND TURNYOU ALL TOGETHER IN REPENTANCE TO ALLAAH O BELIEVERS, THAT YOU MAY BE SUCCESSFUL" [An-Noor (24):31]In Soorah al-Baqarah, Allaah tells us: "SURELY ALLAAH LOVESTHOSE WHO TURN UNTO HIM IN REPENTANCE AND LOVES THOSE WHO PURIFY THEMSELVES." [2:222]This shows how pleasing our repenting is to Allaah.
Also, theProphet, Sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam gave us an example ofjust how pleasing to Allaah our repenting is an authentichadeeth in which he,Sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "Allaahis more delighted with the repentance of His servant than one ofyou would be, who suddenly finds his camel laden with suppliesafter 22losing it in a barren land" (1)Try to imagine your joy if you were to suddenly retrieveeverything you ever possessed after losing all hope ofrecovering what you had lost. Then think that Allaah's delightis even greater than this when His slave repents to Him. So muchso, that if man stopped repenting to Allaah, He would replace uswith another creation that would turn to Him for forgiveness.
The Prophet, Sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "If you didnot commit sins, Allaah would sweep you out of existence andreplace you by another people who would commit sins, ask forAllaah's forgiveness and He would forgive them." (2)The problem with many of us today, is that we don't fear Allaah,which means that we don't think twice about disobeying Him andtherefore falling into sin, which we give no real tought to. Soperhaps we should think about the statement which Ibn Mas'ood(3) radi Allaahu 'anhu, made: "A believer sees his sins as ifhe were sitting under a mountain which he is affraid may fall onhim, whereas the wicked person considers his sins as fliespassing over his nose and he just drives them away like this(and he moved his hand over his nose in illustration)." (4)
NEVER DESPAIR Someone might say, 'I want to repent but my sinsare too many.' But Allaah says: "SAY: O MY SLAVES WHO HAVETRANSGRESSED AGAINST THEMSELVES! DESPAIR NOT FOR THE MERCY OF ALLAAH, VERILY ALLAAH FORGIVES ALL SINS. TRULY HE IS OFT FORGIVING, MOST MERCIFUL." [Az-Zumar (39):53]Therefore, we should never lose hope or stop asking for Allaah'sforgiveness. Its importance is shown to us in a hadeeth in whichthe Prophet, Sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "O people!Turn to Allaah in repentance and seek His forgiveness, forsurely I make repentance a hundred times every day." (5)Repentance is such a great act of worship that doing it cantotally erase our sins altoghether, as the Prophet, Sallallaahu'alaihi wa sallam said: "One who repents from sin is like onewithout sin." (6)
ONLY ALLAAH CAN FORGIVE SINS Forgiveness for our sins is notsomething that comes automatically, it is something that must besought sincerely and with consciousness.
Also we should rememberthat it is only through Allaah's Mercy that anyone will everenter Paradise. The Prophet, Sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallamadvised: "Do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately, andrejoice, for no one's good deeds will put him in Paradise." TheCompanions asked, "Not even you O Messenger of Allaah?" Hereplied. "Not even me unless Allaah bestows His pardon and mercyon me." (7) Therefore in Islaam, salvation rests on faith (whichincludes), good actions and hope in Allaah's mercy, all combinedin truly unique manner which is not found in any other religionor system.
Furthermore, it is only Allaah who can forgive oursins and He is not in need of any intercessor. The proof forthis is in a du'aa (supplication) which the Prophet Sallallaahu'alaihi wa sallam taught his closest Companion Abu Bakr(8): "OAllaah, truly I have wronged myself and none can forgive sinsexcept you." (9) Therefore it is a complete waste of time askingforgiveness from the people such as "saints", pious people oreven the Prophet Sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam.
Allaah say inreply to people who do such things: "VERILY, THOSE YOU CALLUPON BESIDES ALLAAH, ARE ONLY SLAVES LIKE YOURSELVES." [a;-A'raaf (7):194]It is important that we never despair of Allaah's Mercy - no sinis too great to repent for... or too little for that matter. Asone of the salaf (Pious predecessors) said: "Do not look at theinsignifance of your sins, but consider the greatness of The Oneyou are disobeying." (10)_______________________________________________________________
Monday, August 18, 2008
A Remainder...
Asalamu alaikum :)
When you have a moment, please read this reminder:
---
When Islam came, Allaah prescribed that the manner of greeting among Muslims is ^ÓAl-salaamu alaykum,
and that this greeting should only be used among Muslims and not for other nations. The meaning of salaam (literally, peace) is harmlessness, safety and protection from evil and from faults. The name al-Salaam is a Name of Allaah, may He be exalted, so the meaning of the greeting of salaam which is required among Muslims is, "May the blessing of His Name descend upon you." The usage of the preposition 'ala in 'alaykum (upon you) indicates that the greeting is inclusive.
Ibn al-Qayyim said in Badaa'i' al-Fawaa'id (144): "Allaah, the Sovereign, the Most Holy, the Peace, prescribed that the greeting among the people of Islam should be "al-salaamu 'alaykum", which is better than all the greetings of other nations which include impossible ideas or lies, such as saying, "May you live for a thousand years," or things that are not accurate, such as "An'im sabaahan (Good morning),' or actions that are not right, such as prostrating in greeting. Thus the greeting of salaam is better than all of these, because it has the meaning of safety which is life, without which nothing else can be achieved. So this takes precedence over all other aims or objectives. A person has two main aims in life: to keep himself safe from evil, and to get something good. Keeping safe from evil takes precedence over getting something good"
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) made spreading salaam a part of faith. Al-Bukhaari (12, 28 and 6236), Muslim (39), Ahmad (2/169), Abu Dawood (5494), al-Nisaa'i, (8/107) and Ibn Hibbaan (505) narrated from Abd-Allaah ibn Umar that a man asked the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): 'What is the best thing in Islam?' He said, 'Feeding others and giving the greeting of salaam to those whom you know and those whom you do not know.'
Ibn Hajar said in al-Fath (1/56):
'i.e., do not single out anybody out of arrogance or to impress them, but do it to honour the symbols of Islam and to foster Islamic brotherhood.' Ibn Rajab said in al-Fath (1/43): 'The hadeeth makes the connection between feeding others and spreading salaam because this combines good actions in both word and deed, which is perfect good treatment (ihsaan). Indeed, this is the best thing that you can do in Islam after the obligatory duties.'
Al-Sanoosi said in Ikmaal al-Mu'allim (1/244):
'What is meant by salaam is the greeting between people, which sows seeds of love and friendship in their hearts, as does giving food. There may be some weakness in the heart of one of them, which is dispelled when he is greeted, or there may be some hostility, which is turned to friendship by the greeting.'
Al-Qaadi said in Ikmaal al-Mu'allim (1:276): 'Here the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was urging the believers to soften their hearts. The best Islamic attitude is to love one another and greet one another, and this is achieved by words and deeds. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) urged the Muslims to foster love between one another by exchanging gifts and food, and by spreading salaam, and he forbade the opposite, namely forsaking one another, turning away from one another, spying on one another, seeking out information about one another, stirring up trouble and being two faced.
Love is one of the duties of Islam and one of the pillars of the Islamic system. One should give salaams to those whom one knows and those whom one does not know, out of sincerity towards Allaah; one should not try to impress other people by giving salaams only to those whom one knows and no-one else. This also entails an attitude of humility and spreading the symbols of this ummah through the word of salaam.'
Thus the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) explained that this salaam spreads love and brotherhood. Muslim (54), Ahmad (2/391), and al-Tirmidhi (2513) narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
'You will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I not tell you about something which, if you do it, you will love one another? Spread salaam amongst yourselves.'
Al-Qaadi Ayaad said in al-Ikmaal (1/304):
'This is urging us to spread salaam, as mentioned above, among those whom we know and those whom we do not know. Salaam is the first level of righteousness and the first quality of brotherhood, and it is the key to creating love. By spreading salaam the Muslims love for one another grows stronger and they demonstrate their distinctive symbols and spread a feeling of security amongst themselves. This is the meaning of Islam.'
It is clear that it is obligatory to say salaam and return salaams, because by doing so a Muslim is giving you safety and you have to give him safety in return. It is as if he is saying to you, 'I am giving you safety and security,' so you have to give him the same, so that he does not get suspicious or think that the one to whom he has given salaam is betraying him or ignoring him. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us that if Muslims are ignoring or forsaking one another, this will be put to an end when one of them gives salaam. Al-Bukhaari (6233) reported that Abu Ayyoob (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: 'The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 'It is not permissible for a Muslim to forsake his brother for more than three days, each of them turning away from the other if they meet. The better of them is the first one to say salaam.'
__________________________________________________
May Allah give us guidance and strengthen us in Iman and Love of one another :)
Wassalamu alaikum,
When you have a moment, please read this reminder:
---
When Islam came, Allaah prescribed that the manner of greeting among Muslims is ^ÓAl-salaamu alaykum,
and that this greeting should only be used among Muslims and not for other nations. The meaning of salaam (literally, peace) is harmlessness, safety and protection from evil and from faults. The name al-Salaam is a Name of Allaah, may He be exalted, so the meaning of the greeting of salaam which is required among Muslims is, "May the blessing of His Name descend upon you." The usage of the preposition 'ala in 'alaykum (upon you) indicates that the greeting is inclusive.
Ibn al-Qayyim said in Badaa'i' al-Fawaa'id (144): "Allaah, the Sovereign, the Most Holy, the Peace, prescribed that the greeting among the people of Islam should be "al-salaamu 'alaykum", which is better than all the greetings of other nations which include impossible ideas or lies, such as saying, "May you live for a thousand years," or things that are not accurate, such as "An'im sabaahan (Good morning),' or actions that are not right, such as prostrating in greeting. Thus the greeting of salaam is better than all of these, because it has the meaning of safety which is life, without which nothing else can be achieved. So this takes precedence over all other aims or objectives. A person has two main aims in life: to keep himself safe from evil, and to get something good. Keeping safe from evil takes precedence over getting something good"
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) made spreading salaam a part of faith. Al-Bukhaari (12, 28 and 6236), Muslim (39), Ahmad (2/169), Abu Dawood (5494), al-Nisaa'i, (8/107) and Ibn Hibbaan (505) narrated from Abd-Allaah ibn Umar that a man asked the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): 'What is the best thing in Islam?' He said, 'Feeding others and giving the greeting of salaam to those whom you know and those whom you do not know.'
Ibn Hajar said in al-Fath (1/56):
'i.e., do not single out anybody out of arrogance or to impress them, but do it to honour the symbols of Islam and to foster Islamic brotherhood.' Ibn Rajab said in al-Fath (1/43): 'The hadeeth makes the connection between feeding others and spreading salaam because this combines good actions in both word and deed, which is perfect good treatment (ihsaan). Indeed, this is the best thing that you can do in Islam after the obligatory duties.'
Al-Sanoosi said in Ikmaal al-Mu'allim (1/244):
'What is meant by salaam is the greeting between people, which sows seeds of love and friendship in their hearts, as does giving food. There may be some weakness in the heart of one of them, which is dispelled when he is greeted, or there may be some hostility, which is turned to friendship by the greeting.'
Al-Qaadi said in Ikmaal al-Mu'allim (1:276): 'Here the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was urging the believers to soften their hearts. The best Islamic attitude is to love one another and greet one another, and this is achieved by words and deeds. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) urged the Muslims to foster love between one another by exchanging gifts and food, and by spreading salaam, and he forbade the opposite, namely forsaking one another, turning away from one another, spying on one another, seeking out information about one another, stirring up trouble and being two faced.
Love is one of the duties of Islam and one of the pillars of the Islamic system. One should give salaams to those whom one knows and those whom one does not know, out of sincerity towards Allaah; one should not try to impress other people by giving salaams only to those whom one knows and no-one else. This also entails an attitude of humility and spreading the symbols of this ummah through the word of salaam.'
Thus the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) explained that this salaam spreads love and brotherhood. Muslim (54), Ahmad (2/391), and al-Tirmidhi (2513) narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
'You will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I not tell you about something which, if you do it, you will love one another? Spread salaam amongst yourselves.'
Al-Qaadi Ayaad said in al-Ikmaal (1/304):
'This is urging us to spread salaam, as mentioned above, among those whom we know and those whom we do not know. Salaam is the first level of righteousness and the first quality of brotherhood, and it is the key to creating love. By spreading salaam the Muslims love for one another grows stronger and they demonstrate their distinctive symbols and spread a feeling of security amongst themselves. This is the meaning of Islam.'
It is clear that it is obligatory to say salaam and return salaams, because by doing so a Muslim is giving you safety and you have to give him safety in return. It is as if he is saying to you, 'I am giving you safety and security,' so you have to give him the same, so that he does not get suspicious or think that the one to whom he has given salaam is betraying him or ignoring him. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us that if Muslims are ignoring or forsaking one another, this will be put to an end when one of them gives salaam. Al-Bukhaari (6233) reported that Abu Ayyoob (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: 'The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 'It is not permissible for a Muslim to forsake his brother for more than three days, each of them turning away from the other if they meet. The better of them is the first one to say salaam.'
__________________________________________________
May Allah give us guidance and strengthen us in Iman and Love of one another :)
Wassalamu alaikum,
Saturday, August 16, 2008
My Alma Mater
University of IlorinMotto:
Probitas and Doctrina
Established:
1975
Type:
Public
Vice-Chancellor:
Is-haq Olarenwaju Oloyede
Students:
20,084
Location:
Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
Campus:
Urban
The University of Ilorin (established by a decree of the Federal Military Government in 1975) is a federal government owned tertiary institution of education located in Ilorin, Kwara State, north central Nigeria. The ancient city of Ilorin (after which the institution is named), capital of Kwara State is located about 300km away from the commercial capital of Nigeria, Lagos and 500km from Abuja, the administrative capital. Initially, the university started off as a University College affiliated to the oldest university in Nigeria in 1975 under the leadership of the then principal, Dr.T.N.Tamuno. The first set of 200 students selected following an entrance examination were admitted into residence on October 23rd, 1976, while academic work started October 25th , 1976, after the Principal’s address. The University College (as it was known then) started with 3 academic faculties of Arts, Science and Education. In October 1977, the Institution attained full autonomous status with appointment of the then Principal, Prof. O.O Akinkugbe as first vice chancellor.The current vice chancellor, Prof. I.O Oloyede is the first Unilorin alumnus to occupy that position. The staff and student populations now stand at 3,040 and 20,084 respectively.
The University started off on a portion of the temporary campus of the Kwara State Polytechnic known as the mini campus. The mini campus was the site of academic programmes in the Faculties of Arts, Science, Education, Engineering & Technology, Business and Social Sciences, and basic clinical sciences of the Health Sciences Faculty. This was the only campus of the university until January 1982 when the movement of over 1000 students studying science was commenced following completion of new Faculty blocks and Residencies for Natural Sciences and Engineering on the permanent campus site. From 1983,the law programme was started as a department in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences. Following a 6-year hiatus, it was re-established in 1993 as a full fledged Faculty. The university now has 9 faculties-Arts, Agriculture, Business and Social Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology,Law and Science; a College of Health Sciences(with 2 Faculties-Basic Medical and Clinical Sciences); 2 institutes-Institute of Education and Unilorin Sugar Research Institute; and the Postgraduate School. These faculties have 60 academic departments in total. Undergraduate degree programmes are run for 3-5, or 6 years, depending on entry qualifications and discipline.
[edit] External links
University of Ilorin - official website.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Promises, Promises...
Promises, Promises...
by Rajee Ola 'Abdallah
No two words can invoke as much hope and confidence as, "I promise." As children we are taught that promises are unbreakable pledges which cannot be defaulted on under any circumstances. But, as we grow older, the old adage of, "promises were meant to be broken," more often justifies the lack of commitment and follow-through placed behind these two words. Sometimes we forget that a promise, is like a pledge or a vow, and that it should be given only if we are absolutely sure that we can fulfill it.
As Muslims, our word should be our bond, and if we make promises, then we should also make sure that we keep them, for Allah says,
"...surely every promise shall be questioned about." [17:39]
How many times have we heard brothers and sisters who have just gotten married talk of the promises they have made to each other? She promises that she will always look her best when he's at home, that the house will be immaculate at all times and that she will be the model of obedience. He promises that he will help her maintain their home, help her with the children and that he will practically be the poster boy for "Great Husbands Inc."
If we revisit these very couples six-to-eight months later, we find a much different picture than the one painted only a few short months ago. We often find neither of them living up to the promises that they made, and this is usually the cause of much conflict and tension in many new marriages. Brothers and sisters, we must be careful to guard the promises we make to each other for Allah says, "whoever fulfills his promise and guards (against evil), surely Allah loves those who guard (against evil)." [3:76]
Broken promises in a marital relationship can lead to many problems.
When promises are broken, it breaks down the fragile walls of trust and confidence that must be maintained in order for the relationship to flourish. Sisters, if you promised that the dinner would be ready by the time he got home, then make sure that it is. Brothers, if you promised to cut the grass, then make sure you do that, before you go off to do something else. What may seem like a little thing to you, may be something quite big to someone else. By guarding our promises, we also guard the integrity of our relationships. This in turn fosters a more secure sense of reliability, trust and confidence, and serves to diffuse tensions and conflicts.
Allah says,
"They fulfill vows and fear a day the evil of which shall be spreading far and wide." [76:7]
Let us fulfill our vows with this fear in mind. Let us not forget that even though we are neglectful, our scribe angels are not. If a brother comes to you in the mosque and asks a favor of you, and you say yes, just because you said inshaAllah, that does not give you permission to break that verbal agreement. So many of us use inshaAllah, as a way to get out of implicit or explicit verbal agreements we have made with each other. Many of us use inshaAllah to say yes, when in our hearts we actually mean no. As Muslims, we are honour-bound to be truthful with each other, and we should always say what we mean, and mean what we say.
To no other group of individuals are broken promises more devastating, than to children. Children are like elephants, they almost never forget. If you promise a child something, they will remember that promise, even though they may not verbalize it to you. When a child knows that you are a person of your word, then it comes to trust and depend on you in a secure way. But, when a child finds out that you are not a person of your word, this can leave numerous hidden scars that can lead to a number of behavioral and disciplinary problems.
Abdullah said, " Lies are of no use in either seriousness or jest. Also, it is not right for someone to promise something to his/her child/children and then fail to fulfill that promise." Related by Abu Dawood.
By keeping our promises to our children, we are also teaching them the importance of honour and commitment. By keeping our word to them, they will in turn learn to keep promises made to us and to their peers. As parents, we must always remember that the old saying, "do as I say, not as I do," does not work. Children model themselves after behavior, and they will always do what they see their parents doing. By keeping our promises to our children, we also reinforce in them a sense of importance and belonging, and a knowledge that their feelings count too.
Allah says,
"And whatever alms you give or (whatever) vow you vow, surely Allah knows and the unjust shall have no helper." [2:270]
So, let us then not be among the unjust. Let us be always mindful of the vows and promises we make to each other, so that through them we can tighten the bonds that hold us together.
by Rajee Ola 'Abdallah
No two words can invoke as much hope and confidence as, "I promise." As children we are taught that promises are unbreakable pledges which cannot be defaulted on under any circumstances. But, as we grow older, the old adage of, "promises were meant to be broken," more often justifies the lack of commitment and follow-through placed behind these two words. Sometimes we forget that a promise, is like a pledge or a vow, and that it should be given only if we are absolutely sure that we can fulfill it.
As Muslims, our word should be our bond, and if we make promises, then we should also make sure that we keep them, for Allah says,
"...surely every promise shall be questioned about." [17:39]
How many times have we heard brothers and sisters who have just gotten married talk of the promises they have made to each other? She promises that she will always look her best when he's at home, that the house will be immaculate at all times and that she will be the model of obedience. He promises that he will help her maintain their home, help her with the children and that he will practically be the poster boy for "Great Husbands Inc."
If we revisit these very couples six-to-eight months later, we find a much different picture than the one painted only a few short months ago. We often find neither of them living up to the promises that they made, and this is usually the cause of much conflict and tension in many new marriages. Brothers and sisters, we must be careful to guard the promises we make to each other for Allah says, "whoever fulfills his promise and guards (against evil), surely Allah loves those who guard (against evil)." [3:76]
Broken promises in a marital relationship can lead to many problems.
When promises are broken, it breaks down the fragile walls of trust and confidence that must be maintained in order for the relationship to flourish. Sisters, if you promised that the dinner would be ready by the time he got home, then make sure that it is. Brothers, if you promised to cut the grass, then make sure you do that, before you go off to do something else. What may seem like a little thing to you, may be something quite big to someone else. By guarding our promises, we also guard the integrity of our relationships. This in turn fosters a more secure sense of reliability, trust and confidence, and serves to diffuse tensions and conflicts.
Allah says,
"They fulfill vows and fear a day the evil of which shall be spreading far and wide." [76:7]
Let us fulfill our vows with this fear in mind. Let us not forget that even though we are neglectful, our scribe angels are not. If a brother comes to you in the mosque and asks a favor of you, and you say yes, just because you said inshaAllah, that does not give you permission to break that verbal agreement. So many of us use inshaAllah, as a way to get out of implicit or explicit verbal agreements we have made with each other. Many of us use inshaAllah to say yes, when in our hearts we actually mean no. As Muslims, we are honour-bound to be truthful with each other, and we should always say what we mean, and mean what we say.
To no other group of individuals are broken promises more devastating, than to children. Children are like elephants, they almost never forget. If you promise a child something, they will remember that promise, even though they may not verbalize it to you. When a child knows that you are a person of your word, then it comes to trust and depend on you in a secure way. But, when a child finds out that you are not a person of your word, this can leave numerous hidden scars that can lead to a number of behavioral and disciplinary problems.
Abdullah said, " Lies are of no use in either seriousness or jest. Also, it is not right for someone to promise something to his/her child/children and then fail to fulfill that promise." Related by Abu Dawood.
By keeping our promises to our children, we are also teaching them the importance of honour and commitment. By keeping our word to them, they will in turn learn to keep promises made to us and to their peers. As parents, we must always remember that the old saying, "do as I say, not as I do," does not work. Children model themselves after behavior, and they will always do what they see their parents doing. By keeping our promises to our children, we also reinforce in them a sense of importance and belonging, and a knowledge that their feelings count too.
Allah says,
"And whatever alms you give or (whatever) vow you vow, surely Allah knows and the unjust shall have no helper." [2:270]
So, let us then not be among the unjust. Let us be always mindful of the vows and promises we make to each other, so that through them we can tighten the bonds that hold us together.
Islam at A Glance
Asalam alaykum All,
Whatever you think, Whatever you Believe In There is No Harm In Searching For The Truth And Studying Islam.
By Rajee 'Abdallah
Islam And Muslim:
Islam is an Arabic Word which means peace, purity, acceptance and commitment. The religion of Islam is the complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God ( Allah being his proper name ). i.e. surrender to the Will of God.
A Muslim is one who accepts freely and willingly the supreme power of God and strives for total reorganisation of his life according to revealed teachings of God. He also works towards the establishment of a just and equitable social order which would totally reflect the guidance of God.
Continuity of Message:
Islam is not a new religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which God revealed to all His Prophets ( May his peace be upon them all ).
"Say. We believe in God and that which was revealed to us and that which was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the tribes and that which was given to Moses and Jesus and to the Prophets from their Lord: we make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we submit. ( Holy Qu'ran ).
The message which was revealed to Muhammad ( May the Peace and blessings of God be upon him ), the Last Prophet, is Islam in it's comprehensive, complete and final form.
The 5 Pillars of Islam:
Every action which is done with the awareness that it fulfils the will of God is considered an act of worship in Islam. Nevertheless, the specific acts of Worship, termed the pillars of Islam, provide the framework of spiritual life.
They are the Following:
1. Shahada ( The declaration of Faith )
"I bear witness that there is none worthy of Worship except God, and that Muhammad is His servant and messenger"
The Prophethood of Muhammad ( SAW ) obliges the Muslims to follow his exemplary life in every way.
2. Salah ( Prayers )
Prayers are prescribed five times a day as a duty towards God. They strengthen and enliven the belief in God and inspire man to a higher morality. They purify the heart and control temptation towards wrong doing and evil. It should be stressed that while Allah does not need our prayers we cannot survive without His blessings and guidance.
"O you who believe ! Seek help with patient perseverance and prayer, for Allah is with those who patiently persevere". ( Holy Qu'ran )
3. Sawm ( Fasting )
Fasting is observed once each year during the month of Ramadan. This means abstention from food, drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset, and also from all evil intentions and desires. It teaches Love, sincerity and devotion. It develops a sound social conscience, patience, unselfishness and willpower. When we fast by choice, God remembers our sufferings. He appreciates it all :)
4. Zakat ( Charity )
Zakat payment annually of 2.5% of ones net savings as a purifying sum to be spent on the poor and needy. Zakat implies that everything man possesses belongs to God and therefore anyone in need has a share in it.
5. Pilgrimage ( Hajj ) to the Holy City of Makkah:
Once in a lifetime provided one has the means to do so. Hajj implies Man's temporary suspension of all worldly activities and his realisation of himself as a naked soul in front of God alone.
Oneness of God:
Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of God, which makes man aware of the meaningfulness of the Universe and of his place in it. This belief frees him from all fears and superstitions by making him conscious of the presence of Almighty God and of man's obligations towards Him. Belief in One God requires that we look upon all humanity as one family irrespective of colour, class, race, or territory, under the Omnipotence of God the Creator and Nourisher of all.
Islam rejects the idea of a chosen people, making faith in God and good action the only way to HEAVEN. Thus a direct relationship is established with God. Open to all alike, without any intercessor.
Man, The Free Agent:
Man is the highest creation of God and chooses his own way. Created with the highest potentialities, man is left relatively free in his will, action and choice. God has shown him the right path and the life of Prophet Muhammad ( SAW ) provides a perfect example. Man's success and salvation lies in following them. Islam teaches the sanctity of the human personality and confers equal rights upon all without any distinction of race or sex.
The Law of Allah, enunciated in the Qu'ran and exemplified in the life of the Prophet, is supreme in all cases. It applies equally to the highest and the lowest, the prince and the peasant, the ruler and the ruled.
Life After Death:
The world according to Islam, is a place of trial and man is being judged in it. Man is accountable to Allah for all that he does herein. Life on earthy will, one day, come to an end; and after that a new world will be resurrected. It will be in this Life after Death that man will be rewarded or punished for his deeds and misdeeds. God will judge man on the day of Judgement and send him either to Heaven, a stage of existence which leads to further blessings, or to Hell, a stage of suffering and punishment.
Qu'ran And Hadith:
The Qu'ran is the last revealed Word of God and as such affirms and completes the total process of revelation which has come from the Divine, for the Guidance of the Human race. The Qu'ran is the basic source of Islamic teachings and laws and deals with the bases of creeds, morality, history of humanity, worship, knowledge, wisdom, God-man relationship ( He is our Master, Creator, and Lord, we are his servants ), and human relationships in all aspects.
Comprehensive teachings on which sound systems of social justice, economics, politics, legislation, jurisprudence, law and international relations can be built, are important contents of the Holy Qu'ran.
Muhammad ( SAW ) himself was an unlettered man who could not read or write. The Holy Qu'ran was revealed to him over a period of 23 years and committed to memory and writing by his followers under his supervision during his lifetime. The original and complete text of the Qu'ran is available to everybody in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed. Translations of the meaning into many languages are widely used.
Hadith, the teachings, sayings, and actions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ( SAW ), meticulously reported and collected by his devoted companions, explain and elaborate the Qu'ranic verses.
Concept of Worship:
Islam does not teach or accept mere Ritualism. It emphasises intention and action. To worship God is to know Him and Love Him, to act upon His laws in every aspect of life, to enjoin goodness and forbid evil and oppression, to practice charity and justice and to serve Him by serving mankind. Islam seeks to implant in man's heart the strongest conviction that his every thought and action are with God, Who sees him at all times and in all places.
The Qu'ran presents this concept in the following sublime manner:
"It is not righteousness that you turn your faces to the East or the West, but righteous is he who believes in God and the Last Day and the Angels and the Book and the Prophets; and gives his wealth for the love of Him to kinsfolk and to orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask, and to set slaves free; and observes proper worship and pays the Zakat. And those who keep their treaty when they make one, and are patient in tribulation and adversity and time of stress. Such are those who are sincere. Such are the God fearing". ( Holy Qu'ran )
Islamic Way of Life:
Islam provides definite guidelines for all people to follow in all walks of life. The guidance it gives is comprehensive and includes the social, economic, political, moral and spiritual aspects of life. The Qu'ran reminds man of the purpose of life on earth, and his duties and obligations towards himself, his kith and kin, his community, his fellow human beings and his Creator. Man is given fundamental guidelines about a purposeful life and then he is left with the challenge of human existence before him so that he might put these high ideals into practice.
In Islam man is a wholesome, integrated unit and not a collection of fragmented, competitive parts.
The sacred and secular are not separate parts of man; they are united in the nature of human being.
Historic Perspective:
Muhammad ( SAW ) was born in the year 570 A.C. in Makkah in Arabia. He came of a noble Arab family. As soon as he started preaching Islam, he and his followers were persecuted and had to face severe hardships. He was therefore commanded
to migrate to Medina, another city in Arabia.
During a short span of 23 years he was put to rest in the city of Medina. He left no wealth or property. He had lead a perfect life and set an example for all human beings. His Biography illustrates in real life, the meaning and implications of the Qu'ranic teachings.
Islam's Rational Appeal:
Islam is a simple, rational and practical religion. The unity of God, the Prophethood of Muhammad ( SAW ) and the concept of life after death are the basic articles of it's faith. There is no hierarchy of priests, no complicated rites, and rituals. Everybody may approach the Qu'ran directly and translate it's dictates into practice.
Islam stands for the middle path and the goal of producing a moral man in the service of a Just Society.
"Our Lord ! give us good in this world and good in the hereafter". ( Holy Qu'ran )
Islam is a guide to towards a better and complete life and Glorifying in all it's phases, God the Almighty Creator.
Status of Women:
No discrimination is made on the basis of sex. But Islam makes one realise that the spheres of potential capabilities and hence responsibilities of men and women are equally important in themselves but not exactly the same.
The roles of men and women are complementary to each other.
Marriage and Divorce:
Marriage is a very important and sacred bond of relationship between man and woman and a step towards a better purer and happier life. Islam gives both man and woman full right to divorce. Nevertheless divorce is discouraged and is allowed as the last resort.
Islam allows limited polygamy only as a remedy subject to certain conditions.
Jihad:
Jihad ( meaning Struggle ) consists in exerting oneself to the utmost in order to personally follow the teachings of Islam. A Muslim therefore, expends all the powers of body and soul, his wealth, possessions, and even life in the fight against the evil forces of the world, in order that injustice, oppression, and contumacy are annihilated and God's just order is established.
Therefore to struggle in the path of Allah with the pen; speech; and his sword is Jihad.
"What has happened to you ? why don't you fight in the way of God in support of men, women, and children, whom finding helpless, they have repressed; and who pray, "Oh God ! liberate us from this habitation which is ruled by Tyrants". ( Holy Qu'ran )
Islam has come to liberate man from the worship of man and establish the worship of God.
Islam - The Solution For Modern Problems
The BrotherHood of Man:
A major problem which modern man faces is that of racism. The materially advanced nations can send man to the moon but they cannot stop man from hating and fighting his fellow man. Islam, over the last 1400 years, has shown in practice how racism can be ended. Every year during the Hajj, the Islamic miracle of real brotherhood of all races and nations can be seen in action.
The Family:
The family which is the basic unit of civilisation is disintegrating in all western countries. Islam's family system brings into a fine equilibrium the rights of man, wife, children and relatives. Islam nourishes human unselfishness, generosity and love in a well organised family system.
Human beings live according to their view of life. The tragedy of secular societies is that they fail to connect the different aspects of life. The secular and the religious, the scientific and the spiritual seem to be in conflict. Islam puts an end to this conflict and brings harmony to man's vision of life.
Conclusion:
What is the state of the world today? Has man freed himself from all superstitions, imbecility's and absurd beliefs ? Has he discovered the man from within himself ? Has he liberated himself from the yoke of worldly tyrants indulging in the exploitation of man by man ?
If such a millennium has not been achieved despite all developments in science and technology, then Islam has still a great and glorious part to play.
By Rajee 'Abdallah
Islam And Muslim:
Islam is an Arabic Word which means peace, purity, acceptance and commitment. The religion of Islam is the complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God ( Allah being his proper name ). i.e. surrender to the Will of God.
A Muslim is one who accepts freely and willingly the supreme power of God and strives for total reorganisation of his life according to revealed teachings of God. He also works towards the establishment of a just and equitable social order which would totally reflect the guidance of God.
Continuity of Message:
Islam is not a new religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which God revealed to all His Prophets ( May his peace be upon them all ).
"Say. We believe in God and that which was revealed to us and that which was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the tribes and that which was given to Moses and Jesus and to the Prophets from their Lord: we make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we submit. ( Holy Qu'ran ).
The message which was revealed to Muhammad ( May the Peace and blessings of God be upon him ), the Last Prophet, is Islam in it's comprehensive, complete and final form.
The 5 Pillars of Islam:
Every action which is done with the awareness that it fulfils the will of God is considered an act of worship in Islam. Nevertheless, the specific acts of Worship, termed the pillars of Islam, provide the framework of spiritual life.
They are the Following:
1. Shahada ( The declaration of Faith )
"I bear witness that there is none worthy of Worship except God, and that Muhammad is His servant and messenger"
The Prophethood of Muhammad ( SAW ) obliges the Muslims to follow his exemplary life in every way.
2. Salah ( Prayers )
Prayers are prescribed five times a day as a duty towards God. They strengthen and enliven the belief in God and inspire man to a higher morality. They purify the heart and control temptation towards wrong doing and evil. It should be stressed that while Allah does not need our prayers we cannot survive without His blessings and guidance.
"O you who believe ! Seek help with patient perseverance and prayer, for Allah is with those who patiently persevere". ( Holy Qu'ran )
3. Sawm ( Fasting )
Fasting is observed once each year during the month of Ramadan. This means abstention from food, drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset, and also from all evil intentions and desires. It teaches Love, sincerity and devotion. It develops a sound social conscience, patience, unselfishness and willpower. When we fast by choice, God remembers our sufferings. He appreciates it all :)
4. Zakat ( Charity )
Zakat payment annually of 2.5% of ones net savings as a purifying sum to be spent on the poor and needy. Zakat implies that everything man possesses belongs to God and therefore anyone in need has a share in it.
5. Pilgrimage ( Hajj ) to the Holy City of Makkah:
Once in a lifetime provided one has the means to do so. Hajj implies Man's temporary suspension of all worldly activities and his realisation of himself as a naked soul in front of God alone.
Oneness of God:
Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of God, which makes man aware of the meaningfulness of the Universe and of his place in it. This belief frees him from all fears and superstitions by making him conscious of the presence of Almighty God and of man's obligations towards Him. Belief in One God requires that we look upon all humanity as one family irrespective of colour, class, race, or territory, under the Omnipotence of God the Creator and Nourisher of all.
Islam rejects the idea of a chosen people, making faith in God and good action the only way to HEAVEN. Thus a direct relationship is established with God. Open to all alike, without any intercessor.
Man, The Free Agent:
Man is the highest creation of God and chooses his own way. Created with the highest potentialities, man is left relatively free in his will, action and choice. God has shown him the right path and the life of Prophet Muhammad ( SAW ) provides a perfect example. Man's success and salvation lies in following them. Islam teaches the sanctity of the human personality and confers equal rights upon all without any distinction of race or sex.
The Law of Allah, enunciated in the Qu'ran and exemplified in the life of the Prophet, is supreme in all cases. It applies equally to the highest and the lowest, the prince and the peasant, the ruler and the ruled.
Life After Death:
The world according to Islam, is a place of trial and man is being judged in it. Man is accountable to Allah for all that he does herein. Life on earthy will, one day, come to an end; and after that a new world will be resurrected. It will be in this Life after Death that man will be rewarded or punished for his deeds and misdeeds. God will judge man on the day of Judgement and send him either to Heaven, a stage of existence which leads to further blessings, or to Hell, a stage of suffering and punishment.
Qu'ran And Hadith:
The Qu'ran is the last revealed Word of God and as such affirms and completes the total process of revelation which has come from the Divine, for the Guidance of the Human race. The Qu'ran is the basic source of Islamic teachings and laws and deals with the bases of creeds, morality, history of humanity, worship, knowledge, wisdom, God-man relationship ( He is our Master, Creator, and Lord, we are his servants ), and human relationships in all aspects.
Comprehensive teachings on which sound systems of social justice, economics, politics, legislation, jurisprudence, law and international relations can be built, are important contents of the Holy Qu'ran.
Muhammad ( SAW ) himself was an unlettered man who could not read or write. The Holy Qu'ran was revealed to him over a period of 23 years and committed to memory and writing by his followers under his supervision during his lifetime. The original and complete text of the Qu'ran is available to everybody in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed. Translations of the meaning into many languages are widely used.
Hadith, the teachings, sayings, and actions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ( SAW ), meticulously reported and collected by his devoted companions, explain and elaborate the Qu'ranic verses.
Concept of Worship:
Islam does not teach or accept mere Ritualism. It emphasises intention and action. To worship God is to know Him and Love Him, to act upon His laws in every aspect of life, to enjoin goodness and forbid evil and oppression, to practice charity and justice and to serve Him by serving mankind. Islam seeks to implant in man's heart the strongest conviction that his every thought and action are with God, Who sees him at all times and in all places.
The Qu'ran presents this concept in the following sublime manner:
"It is not righteousness that you turn your faces to the East or the West, but righteous is he who believes in God and the Last Day and the Angels and the Book and the Prophets; and gives his wealth for the love of Him to kinsfolk and to orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask, and to set slaves free; and observes proper worship and pays the Zakat. And those who keep their treaty when they make one, and are patient in tribulation and adversity and time of stress. Such are those who are sincere. Such are the God fearing". ( Holy Qu'ran )
Islamic Way of Life:
Islam provides definite guidelines for all people to follow in all walks of life. The guidance it gives is comprehensive and includes the social, economic, political, moral and spiritual aspects of life. The Qu'ran reminds man of the purpose of life on earth, and his duties and obligations towards himself, his kith and kin, his community, his fellow human beings and his Creator. Man is given fundamental guidelines about a purposeful life and then he is left with the challenge of human existence before him so that he might put these high ideals into practice.
In Islam man is a wholesome, integrated unit and not a collection of fragmented, competitive parts.
The sacred and secular are not separate parts of man; they are united in the nature of human being.
Historic Perspective:
Muhammad ( SAW ) was born in the year 570 A.C. in Makkah in Arabia. He came of a noble Arab family. As soon as he started preaching Islam, he and his followers were persecuted and had to face severe hardships. He was therefore commanded
to migrate to Medina, another city in Arabia.
During a short span of 23 years he was put to rest in the city of Medina. He left no wealth or property. He had lead a perfect life and set an example for all human beings. His Biography illustrates in real life, the meaning and implications of the Qu'ranic teachings.
Islam's Rational Appeal:
Islam is a simple, rational and practical religion. The unity of God, the Prophethood of Muhammad ( SAW ) and the concept of life after death are the basic articles of it's faith. There is no hierarchy of priests, no complicated rites, and rituals. Everybody may approach the Qu'ran directly and translate it's dictates into practice.
Islam stands for the middle path and the goal of producing a moral man in the service of a Just Society.
"Our Lord ! give us good in this world and good in the hereafter". ( Holy Qu'ran )
Islam is a guide to towards a better and complete life and Glorifying in all it's phases, God the Almighty Creator.
Status of Women:
No discrimination is made on the basis of sex. But Islam makes one realise that the spheres of potential capabilities and hence responsibilities of men and women are equally important in themselves but not exactly the same.
The roles of men and women are complementary to each other.
Marriage and Divorce:
Marriage is a very important and sacred bond of relationship between man and woman and a step towards a better purer and happier life. Islam gives both man and woman full right to divorce. Nevertheless divorce is discouraged and is allowed as the last resort.
Islam allows limited polygamy only as a remedy subject to certain conditions.
Jihad:
Jihad ( meaning Struggle ) consists in exerting oneself to the utmost in order to personally follow the teachings of Islam. A Muslim therefore, expends all the powers of body and soul, his wealth, possessions, and even life in the fight against the evil forces of the world, in order that injustice, oppression, and contumacy are annihilated and God's just order is established.
Therefore to struggle in the path of Allah with the pen; speech; and his sword is Jihad.
"What has happened to you ? why don't you fight in the way of God in support of men, women, and children, whom finding helpless, they have repressed; and who pray, "Oh God ! liberate us from this habitation which is ruled by Tyrants". ( Holy Qu'ran )
Islam has come to liberate man from the worship of man and establish the worship of God.
Islam - The Solution For Modern Problems
The BrotherHood of Man:
A major problem which modern man faces is that of racism. The materially advanced nations can send man to the moon but they cannot stop man from hating and fighting his fellow man. Islam, over the last 1400 years, has shown in practice how racism can be ended. Every year during the Hajj, the Islamic miracle of real brotherhood of all races and nations can be seen in action.
The Family:
The family which is the basic unit of civilisation is disintegrating in all western countries. Islam's family system brings into a fine equilibrium the rights of man, wife, children and relatives. Islam nourishes human unselfishness, generosity and love in a well organised family system.
Human beings live according to their view of life. The tragedy of secular societies is that they fail to connect the different aspects of life. The secular and the religious, the scientific and the spiritual seem to be in conflict. Islam puts an end to this conflict and brings harmony to man's vision of life.
Conclusion:
What is the state of the world today? Has man freed himself from all superstitions, imbecility's and absurd beliefs ? Has he discovered the man from within himself ? Has he liberated himself from the yoke of worldly tyrants indulging in the exploitation of man by man ?
If such a millennium has not been achieved despite all developments in science and technology, then Islam has still a great and glorious part to play.
Self-Esteem and Teens
Self-Esteem and Teens
Ideally, we raise our children from the cradle to have a positive sense of self-esteem. A child that has always had a strong sense of who they are and were they want to go with their life is not as likely to dabble in drugs, alcohol, and premarital sex. A child who has a safe open dialog with at least one of their parents is not as likely to keep secrets and start sneaking around during the teenage years. A child who has been raised to set personal boundaries is not as likely to let peer pressure dictate their standards of conduct. Children who have been raised to recognize their own gifts and limitations are able to make their own choices about what is in their long-term best interest. But most teens weren’t raised perfectly and they know it, so along with the lack of self-confidence they are often carrying at least a little bit of animosity towards the authority figures that have failed them.
Teens have a double-edged sword in their hands. On the one side, they have none of the adult wisdom that comes from making their own choices and seeing for themselves what does and does not work for them. On the other side, they have serious hormone levels that by design give them the feeling of strength and immortality. You see it in boys especially. There is nothing quite like a heavy dose of testosterone to give a previously insecure boy the belief that he can tackle the opposing football team or even ask the most popular girl out on a date. Hormones foster a temporary manic form of self-esteem in teens that often gets them into more trouble then good.
They think their new can-do attitude is enough to get them through life, but the truth is, those hormone levels eventually mellow out and their original lack of self-esteem will come back. Often you will see young adults in their early to mid-twenties undergoing a depression as the reality of their limited belief systems drift back into their awareness. It’s like the tide just came back in. From this place, a lot of folks decide that nothing they do ever really matters and they resign themselves to a dull uneventful life. They put their dreams up on a shelf and most never bother to try again. Remember back in your own life, when did you give up on your dreams?
We need to educate our teens in advance that the Superman Complex will wear off and that they will go back to being normal people again. That does not make them failures; it just makes them human. It should be taught in the health curriculum along with defining the upcoming body changes, that when all of that stabilizes, they will no longer feel invincible. That would help them to not go through a withdrawal type depression later in life. “When I was young, I always dreamed of being a _____ when I grew up. Now I’m just answering phones on this customer service hotline being yelled at everyday by irate customers. This is definitely not what I had in mind when I pictured ‘happily ever after’.”
Yes, we should teach them self-esteem from the time they are born. Yes, we should teach them how to create a balance between self-obsession and caring about others’ needs. And yes, we should teach them that there is a time and a place for immediate gratification and a time and a place for delayed gratification. But what is often missed is the basic core belief that they are capable of doing anything they set their minds to. Teens should be taught that it takes hard work and determination to make the big important dreams come true. It is fun to dream of becoming an overnight success as a rock star or as an athlete, but that behind the scenes their heroes did work hard to master their craft and to become noticed by people who had the ability to promote them. Teach them that luck is something that rarely finds you, you often have to go looking for it. We have to teach our teens the nuts and bolts of how to make their dreams come true.
We have to talk to them and find out what their goals are. Then we have to help them plot a course that is exciting and adventurous. Help them understand that they can accomplish a lot towards fulfilling those goals now, but that there will come a day when nature dictates they will slow down and the fire in their belly will become a quiet ember. They need to be forewarned so they will stay focused now and can get a lot of the hard work done before hand. That is why they need to go to college as soon as possible, or train as apprentices now, or practice their craft until they can perform inside out and upside down in their sleep. They have to work hard while they have the youthful drive to do so. Encourage them to run with their dreams in a positive logical direction that will actually get them where they want to go. Show them how to look backwards over their shoulder once in a while to see just how far they have come and that they may not be at their ultimate finishing point, but they have made wonderful progress so far.
Do not let them tell you that they do not have any goals and that there is nothing they are good at anyway. Somewhere in their grumpy little hearts is a dream; make them find it. Self-esteem does not come from someone else telling us that we are capable. Self-esteem comes from fighting, scratching and digging our way towards something. It is that little voice somewhere in the back of our minds whispering, “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can…” and that cannot come from Mommy and Daddy. That comes from pushing ourselves beyond our easy comfort zones.
Ideally, we raise our children from the cradle to have a positive sense of self-esteem. A child that has always had a strong sense of who they are and were they want to go with their life is not as likely to dabble in drugs, alcohol, and premarital sex. A child who has a safe open dialog with at least one of their parents is not as likely to keep secrets and start sneaking around during the teenage years. A child who has been raised to set personal boundaries is not as likely to let peer pressure dictate their standards of conduct. Children who have been raised to recognize their own gifts and limitations are able to make their own choices about what is in their long-term best interest. But most teens weren’t raised perfectly and they know it, so along with the lack of self-confidence they are often carrying at least a little bit of animosity towards the authority figures that have failed them.
Teens have a double-edged sword in their hands. On the one side, they have none of the adult wisdom that comes from making their own choices and seeing for themselves what does and does not work for them. On the other side, they have serious hormone levels that by design give them the feeling of strength and immortality. You see it in boys especially. There is nothing quite like a heavy dose of testosterone to give a previously insecure boy the belief that he can tackle the opposing football team or even ask the most popular girl out on a date. Hormones foster a temporary manic form of self-esteem in teens that often gets them into more trouble then good.
They think their new can-do attitude is enough to get them through life, but the truth is, those hormone levels eventually mellow out and their original lack of self-esteem will come back. Often you will see young adults in their early to mid-twenties undergoing a depression as the reality of their limited belief systems drift back into their awareness. It’s like the tide just came back in. From this place, a lot of folks decide that nothing they do ever really matters and they resign themselves to a dull uneventful life. They put their dreams up on a shelf and most never bother to try again. Remember back in your own life, when did you give up on your dreams?
We need to educate our teens in advance that the Superman Complex will wear off and that they will go back to being normal people again. That does not make them failures; it just makes them human. It should be taught in the health curriculum along with defining the upcoming body changes, that when all of that stabilizes, they will no longer feel invincible. That would help them to not go through a withdrawal type depression later in life. “When I was young, I always dreamed of being a _____ when I grew up. Now I’m just answering phones on this customer service hotline being yelled at everyday by irate customers. This is definitely not what I had in mind when I pictured ‘happily ever after’.”
Yes, we should teach them self-esteem from the time they are born. Yes, we should teach them how to create a balance between self-obsession and caring about others’ needs. And yes, we should teach them that there is a time and a place for immediate gratification and a time and a place for delayed gratification. But what is often missed is the basic core belief that they are capable of doing anything they set their minds to. Teens should be taught that it takes hard work and determination to make the big important dreams come true. It is fun to dream of becoming an overnight success as a rock star or as an athlete, but that behind the scenes their heroes did work hard to master their craft and to become noticed by people who had the ability to promote them. Teach them that luck is something that rarely finds you, you often have to go looking for it. We have to teach our teens the nuts and bolts of how to make their dreams come true.
We have to talk to them and find out what their goals are. Then we have to help them plot a course that is exciting and adventurous. Help them understand that they can accomplish a lot towards fulfilling those goals now, but that there will come a day when nature dictates they will slow down and the fire in their belly will become a quiet ember. They need to be forewarned so they will stay focused now and can get a lot of the hard work done before hand. That is why they need to go to college as soon as possible, or train as apprentices now, or practice their craft until they can perform inside out and upside down in their sleep. They have to work hard while they have the youthful drive to do so. Encourage them to run with their dreams in a positive logical direction that will actually get them where they want to go. Show them how to look backwards over their shoulder once in a while to see just how far they have come and that they may not be at their ultimate finishing point, but they have made wonderful progress so far.
Do not let them tell you that they do not have any goals and that there is nothing they are good at anyway. Somewhere in their grumpy little hearts is a dream; make them find it. Self-esteem does not come from someone else telling us that we are capable. Self-esteem comes from fighting, scratching and digging our way towards something. It is that little voice somewhere in the back of our minds whispering, “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can…” and that cannot come from Mommy and Daddy. That comes from pushing ourselves beyond our easy comfort zones.
10 Tips For Successful Public Speaking
10 Tips For Successful Public Speaking
1.Know the room. Be familiar with the place in which you will speak. Arrive early, walk around the speaking area and practice using the microphone and any visual aids.
2.Know the audience. Greet some of the audience as they arrive. It's easier to speak to a group of friends than to a group of strangers.
3.Know your material. If you're not familiar with your material or are uncomfortable with it, your nervousness will increase. Practice your speech and revise it if necessary.
4.Relax. Ease tension by doing exercises.
5.Visualize yourself giving your speech. Imagine yourself speaking, your voice loud, clear, and assured. When you visualize yourself as successful, you will be successful.
6.Realize that people want you to succeed. Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative, and entertaining. They don't want you to fail.
7.Don't apologize. If you mention your nervousness or apologize for any problems you think you have with your speech, you may be calling the audience's attention to something they hadn't noticed. Keep silent.
8.Concentrate on the message -- not the medium. Focus your attention away from your own anxieties, and outwardly toward your message and your audience. Your nervousness will dissipate.
9.Turn nervousness into positive energy. Harness your nervous energy and transform it into vitality and enthusiasm.
10.Gain experience. Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking.
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
1.Know the room. Be familiar with the place in which you will speak. Arrive early, walk around the speaking area and practice using the microphone and any visual aids.
2.Know the audience. Greet some of the audience as they arrive. It's easier to speak to a group of friends than to a group of strangers.
3.Know your material. If you're not familiar with your material or are uncomfortable with it, your nervousness will increase. Practice your speech and revise it if necessary.
4.Relax. Ease tension by doing exercises.
5.Visualize yourself giving your speech. Imagine yourself speaking, your voice loud, clear, and assured. When you visualize yourself as successful, you will be successful.
6.Realize that people want you to succeed. Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative, and entertaining. They don't want you to fail.
7.Don't apologize. If you mention your nervousness or apologize for any problems you think you have with your speech, you may be calling the audience's attention to something they hadn't noticed. Keep silent.
8.Concentrate on the message -- not the medium. Focus your attention away from your own anxieties, and outwardly toward your message and your audience. Your nervousness will dissipate.
9.Turn nervousness into positive energy. Harness your nervous energy and transform it into vitality and enthusiasm.
10.Gain experience. Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking.
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
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