Aiman Azlan

"Do You Have Any Study Tips?"

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:17:00 PST

That is the question that I got from several people.

Alhamdulillah, I have been blessed by Allah that my studying has led me to a country like Canada. This is the first time that I have been away from Malaysia and also the furthest that I have been from my home.

Having said that, I wouldn't call myself an effective student. I don't have a plan when studying. I usually follow my mood and my greatest method of studying so far is teaching people. So when someone comes to you to ask for help, think twice before saying to your friend, "Sorry, I'm busy."

Anyway, when people ask me for study tips I really don't know what to give them. Besides, everyone studies differently. Studying is more of an art than a science.

Keeping that in mind, I did ask my teacher for study tips and this is what he gave me:

Make sure that you get at least 85% or more from every lecture. To do this, you need a very sharp mind (from a good sleep), good notes, and critical thinking.
Review the notes every day for the course that meet that day meaning if Chemistry meets on Monday, you need to review Chemistry notes before Monday ends. If something is not making sense, make a note, and ask the professor the next day.
Prioritize daily - make sure you list down five things that you need to accomplish every day, from the most important to the least important.
Before you go to sleep, do a quick evaluation of the day.
And, of course, make tons of du'a to Allah.

After reading that list, you might be overwhelmed.

But let me tell you about the teacher who gave me this. He is a Malay Muslim who took a double major in one university in America and he managed to get 95% in both of his majors. He majored in Psychology and Chemical Engineering.

I've seen this man, sat with him, chatted with him, played soccer with him, ate with him, and prayed with him, and I dare say that he is one of the most productive people I know. But he is like me and you. There is nothing intrinsically extraordinary about him that made him do those extraordinary things. What makes him extraordinary are his intention, his planning, his effort, and his determination; all of which can be done by any one of us.

Again, let me stress the fact that each student studies differently and that studying is more of an art than a science. Asking for tips is a good thing but window shopping for tips is not i.e. asking for the sake of asking. When we get these tips, we should try our best to implement them and perhaps modify them to suit us. What works for me might not work for you.

And lastly,

"If you think you can or cannot do a thing, you're right." (Henry Ford)

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 10) - The Finale

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 21:03:00 PST

Alia: You wanted to see me?

Abi: Yes. Come, sit with me for a moment.

Alia: What’s up?

Abi: What Ali’s dad said, made me think. Allah, how time flies! I could’ve sworn that you’re still a 5-year-old girl. I can’t believe that you’re getting married soon.

Alia: Abi, whether I’m 5 or 20 years old, I will always be your little girl.

Abi: (Smiles) I guess so. But Insha Allah, next month you’ll be Ali’s wife. That means that he will be your No. 1 man, not me. Not anymore. Do you understand?

Alia: Abi, why do you talk like that? You’re making me sad.

Abi: Lia...do you understand?

Alia cries.

Alia: Yes, Abi. I do. But know this...you will always be my first love.

Abi cries and embraces his daughter.

Abi: I love you so much.

*****

A month has passed. Both families are in the Masjid for the ‘aqad ceremony.

Ali: Oi, take a look at my sampin. Is it crooked?

Ahmad: You look fine. How many times do you need to ask me that?

Ali: Bro, I’m nervous! Look at all these people. I didn’t realize we have such big families man!

Ahmad: You think too much. Stop being a baby and man up!

Ali: Whoa, that’s a low blow man. Low blow. Wait till you get married and we’ll see how you’ll react!

Ahmad just smiles.

Abi: Imam, I know it’s the norm that the wali gives his waliship authority to the Imam to marry off the woman. But for my daughter, I would like to do it myself. Could you be the witness?

Imam: That’s fine, not a problem. That is your right. Did the bride put forth any conditions for the groom?

Abi: Yes.

Imam: And the groom agreed?

Ali: Yes, I have agreed to them all. All the details are in this marriage contract.

Imam: Could I have a look at the contract please? Sometimes people set conditions which are nonsensical, not to mention going against the Sharia.

Ali: No problem. It’s better that you check, just to make sure everything’s fine.

Imam reads the contract carefully.

Imam: Hmm...I don’t see any problems. Alhamdulillah, we can proceed to the 'ijab and qabul.

Abi: Bismillah...

Ali is ready.

Abi: I marry off my daughter, Alia binti Ibrahim, to you, Ali bin Abdullah, for the mahr of RM2,000.

Ali: I accept.

Abi: Alhamdulillah. Welcome to the family, son.

Abi embraces Ali.

Ali: Thank you...Abi.

*****

Walimah commences. The atmosphere is cheerful with the beating of the duff and the singing of nasheeds. Friends and relatives, from near and afar, come to celebrate the union of two families. The rich, the poor, the orphans, the ‘alim, and people from various walks of life come together. The sun is out and the wind is whistling gently. Two huge tents are seen, one for the gentlemen and the other for the ladies.

At the gents’ side…

Ahmad: Bro! You’re married now!

Ali: Alhamdulillah, I can’t believe how lucky I am. I’m married and my best friend is my brother-in-law.

Ahmad: On that note, you better watch out. If Alia is unhappy…well, let’s just say that you don’t wanna know the end of that sentence.

Ali: Whoa, relax bro! Don’t get all big brother on me now.

Dad: Ali, where did Mom put all the bunga telur? This basket is empty and needs refilling.

Ali: In the house, beside the telephone. Dad, you wait here. Lemme go get them.

Dad: No, young man. You stay put and greet the guests. Plus, your friends would wanna see you. I’ll go get the bunga telur.

Bakar: Assalamualaikum! Ali my brother, barakallah!

Ali: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Thanks bro! Make du’a for us.

Bakar: You know I will. Ahmad, assalamualaikum!

Ahmad: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah!

Bakar: Ahmad, Samad is looking for you.

Ahmad: Yeah? Where is he?

Bakar: There, chillin’ with Amin, Hakim, and Bakri.

Ahmad: Oi Ali, let’s go say hi!

Ali: One step ahead of you. O wait, where’s my phone?

Ahmad: Here. You told me to hold it for you remember?

Ali: Ops, I forgot. Gimme that.

At the ladies' side…

Alia: Anis? Is that you?

Anis: Assalamualaikum!

Alia: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah! Hey, when did you get back? I thought you’re still in university.

Anis: I took a few days off. I couldn’t miss my friend’s walimah now could I? Guess what, I brought the gang along.

Alia: Ya Rabb! Nur, Laila, Aishah! You came! I was worried that you wouldn’t come. I texted you guys but you didn’t reply.

Aishah: Mabruk Lia! Of course we’re gonna come. You gotta fulfill an invitation, especially an invitation to ma gurl’s walimah!

Nur: Congrats! We didn’t reply to your messages ‘cause we want to make a surprise.

Alia: Well, good job. I’m surprised.

Laila: Say, where are the plates? I’m starvin’.

Alia: Oh my, sorry! You’re my special guests, get inside the house and help yourself. Ummi is in there. Go on!

Nur, Laila, and Aishah walk into the house.

Alia: Anis? What are you waiting for?

Anis: Umm Lia... where’s Ahmad?

Alia: Over there, with Ali.

Anis: Oh...okay. So, that’s your husband?

Alia: Yup!

Alia’s phone rings. Ali sends a text…

Ali: Feel like a poet today.

Alia: Hehe...really?

Ali: Really.

Alia: How come?

Ali: I looked at you today and a poem was written in my head. Subhanallah, out of nowhere!

Alia smiles. She looks at her husband from the corner of her eyes. Ali catches her gaze and they lock eyes for a brief moment.

Alia: So, where’s the poem?

Ali: Seriously? You don’t expect me to text you the poem do you? How “romantic”!

Alia: Well, you’re busy with the guests. So am I. I think via SMS is okay, at least for now.

Ali: Okay, you ready?

Alia: Think you’re like Shakespeare huh? LOL!

Ali: Ouch!

Alia: I kid, I kid. The stage is yours!

Alia awaits the SMS from her husband…

Ali:
My love for you is not of this earth, but of the Heavens
Yet I know it's not possible, because Heaven is greater
And the greatest of all Heavens, is the one with you in it
For Heaven will not feel heavenly without you, my love

Suddenly Alia is struck by something. She sits down. Beads of tears slowly fall from her eyes, reaching the corner of her lips, carving a smile.

Anis: Alia? What’s wrong?

Alia: It feels…different.

Anis: What is it?

Alia: (Rubs chest) This love. A love that is blessed, it really feels different.

Anis glances at Ahmad, over at the other side...

*THE END*

Lovely SMS, by Aiman Azlan

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Sekilas di Syurga

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 19:55:00 PST

Ummi di dalam dapur.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum!

Ummi: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Nape lame sangat?

Ahmad: Sorry, Ummi. Tak jumpa minyak masak kat kedai depan tu, tokeh kedai kata dah habis. So Ahmad kena pegi kat kedai yang satu lagi. Jauh skit.

Ummi: Takpe. Bagi Ummi minyak tu.

Ahmad hulurkan minyak masak kepada Ummi.

Ahmad: Ummi, ada apa yang Ahmad boleh tolong?

Ummi: Hmm...tolong potong sayur-sayur ni. Nah, letak kat bakul kecik ni.

Ahmad: Okeh.

Mereka berdua sibuk dengan kerja masing-masing. Tiba-tiba Ahmad terdengar Ummi seakan-akan menangis. Tak kelihatan pula Ummi sedang memotong bawang.

Ahmad: Ummi? Ummi OK ke?

Ummi: Oh, takde pape. Ummi teringatkan Lia. Selalunya dia yang tolong Ummi kat dapur. Dah kahwin dah anak Ummi.

Ahmad: Ahmad ada lagi, Ummi.

Ummi mencubit pipi Ahmad. Senyuman di bibir.

Ummi: Ahmad pun tak lama lagi kan?

Ahmad: Don't worry, Ummi. Ahmad ni tak la laku sangat. Takda pompuan yang nak. Nampak gayanya Ahmad kena tinggal ngan Ummi sampai tua la.

Ummi: Ish, budak ni!

Mereka ketawa. Kemudian mereka sambung dengan kerja masing-masing. Ahmad perasan yang Ummi masih lagi dalam kesedihan. Ahmad terfikirkan satu idea.

Ahmad: Ummi?

Ummi: Yes?

Ahmad: Ahmad terasa macam nak pegi syurga kejap la.

Ummi: Bagus la tu....eh? Nak pegi syurga "kejap"?

Ahmad: Ye, kejap je. Pastu Ahmad nak datang sini balik. You know what, Ahmad nak pegi skang la.

Ummi: Hah? Buang tebia......

Lalu Ahmad memeluk Ummi. Ummi terkesima.

Ahmad: I changed my mind la. Nak stay lama skit boleh?

Ummi senyum.

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 9)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:16:00 PST

Ahmad sends Alia a text…

Ahmad: Yo, where’s ma cookie? I’m starvin’ here!

Alia: JUST WAIT!

Alia walks to the living room with refreshments for the guests: Ali and his parents.

Mom: Oh, so this is Alia?

Ummi: The one and only.

Mom: My, my, she’s pretty!

Alia can only smile. Ahmad is holding back his laughter.

Abi: Ali told me that you work as the principal in the school right by the traffic light.

Dad: Yes, that is correct. But not for long though. Insha Allah I’ll be retiring in 2 years. It’s about time that my only child here got married.

Abi: I hope everything goes well until your retirement, Insha Allah. Finally got this one off your shoulders eh?

Dad: (Laughs) That’s right. So Ali, do you have a date in mind for the wedding?

Ali: Well that depends on you Dad, and on uncle too of course. For me, I prefer not to prolong the wedding.

Abi: How about next month?

Dad: Sounds good.

Mom: Are you okay with that, Ali?

Ali: (Nods) Yup.

Abi: We’ll do the ‘aqad on Friday at the Masjid across the road near our house, after Juma prayer. After that, we’ll do the walimah until just before Maghrib.

Dad: Speaking of walimah, since we live so close with each other I figured it’s enough to do just one walimah, for both sides. What do you think?

Abi: No problem. We’ll split the cost.

Dad: No need for that my friend. Let us handle the walimah. You don’t have to spend anything on your end. I mean, you’re giving your daughter away to my son. To me, that is a sacrifice you can’t put a price on.

Abi: When I think about it, it is difficult to let her go. But I feel uncomfortable if I don’t do anything to help ease the burden. At least let me handle the invitations. Please, I insist.

Dad: Well if that is how you feel, then I can't say no. By the way, what about the mahr?

Abi looks at Alia.

Alia: I asked for a ring as the mahr.

Ali: Well, I do have the ring that uncle gave me last week.

Abi: Actually, that ring was given by me to my wife. It’s her ring.

Ummi: It was a gift uncle gave me when we got married. I wish to pass it down to Alia.

Abi: As for the mahr, I have something else in mind.

Alia: Huh?

Abi: Don't worry Lia. As the wali, I can decide what the mahr will be. Ali, I want to ask for an amount of money as the mahr; RM2,000.

Mom and Dad look at Ali. He seems worried for some reason.

Abi: You must be wondering why I asked for money right? A ring is a modest mahr, no doubt. But did you know that the Prophet once gave Aisha an amount of gold as the mahr? He gave about 500 dirhams.

Ali: Really? That’s news to me.

Abi: I do take into consideration that you’re a student and I also take into consideration the value of mahr befitting a woman like Alia. I figured RM2,000 won’t be a problem to you, am I right?

Ali: Yes. I am able to fulfill that mahr.

The discussion continues for almost 2 hours. Now it’s time for the guests to go home.

Abi: Thank you for coming.

Dad: Thank you for hosting us so kindly.

Mom: I’ll take my leave now.

Ummi: Do come again will you?

Ali and his parents left.

Ummi: Lia, would you follow me to my room please?

Alia: Okay.

In the room…

Ummi: Take this.

Alia: What’s this?

Ummi: This is the dress that I wore on my wedding day. I kept it in one piece, waiting for the day that I may give it to you.

Alia: Are you sure this will fit me?

Ummi: I beg your pardon, young lady? I was skinnier than you when I was your age. Insha Allah, it’ll fit.

Alia: (Laughs) Thank you, Ummi. Love you.

Ummi: This baju kurung might be a bit outdated. But don’t worry, we’ll decorate it together to make it prettier

Alia: Alright, we’ll do that. But, I won’t mind wearing it as it is. I’m happy to wear exactly the same dress you wore. I can't imagine a prettier dress.

Ahmad knocks on the door.

Ummi: Come in.

Ahmad: Whoa, whose dress is that?

Alia: This is the dress Ummi wore when she married Abi.

Ahmad: Get out of here! That dress is legendary!

Alia: Jealous much?

Ahmad: You wish. Yo Lia, Abi wants to have a word with you. He’s downstairs.

Alia: Oh? Alright.

Alia left.

Ahmad: Umm…Ummi?

Ummi: Yes?

Ahmad: By any chance, does Abi still have his wedding dress?

Ummi: Hmm...I think so. Why do you ask?

Ahmad: Just curious. Okay, I’m gonna go clean up the living room.

Ahmad walks to the door.

Ummi: Ahmad?

Ahmad: Yes?

Ummi: How’s Anis doing?

Ahmad: ...

Episode 8 | Episode 10 - The Finale

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 8)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:05:00 PST

Abi: Ali...I don't think this is going to work out.

Ali exhales heavily, but the sadness inside is still there. Helpless.

[Flashback starts]

Ali knocks on his parents’ bedroom door.

Ali: Assalamualaikum.

Dad: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Come in.

Ali sits with his parents.

Ali: So...how was the meeting with the Ustadh? What do you guys think?

Mom: Hmm...we understood and agreed with what he said.

Ali: But?

Dad: But it’s easier said than done.

Ali: I’ve known it all along that there will be unpleasant remarks about how I want my walimah to be like. And, I know that those remarks will cause you emotional pain.

Ali senses the uneasiness in his parents.

Ali: But if we keep on going with what the people want, then when will it end? Someone has to start the change, and I want to be that someone.

Dad: What about Alia?

Ali: She and I are on the same boat. She wants a simple wedding.

Dad: Her parents?

Ali: I don’t know about them. I’ve never met them. I do hope that they have the same views as Alia. So, are you guys okay with this?

Dad: I believe that you’re mature enough to know what marriage is all about. If you’re ready for it, then you have my blessing.

Ali: Mom? You seem awfully quiet.

Mom: I can predict what my friends will say about your wedding.

Ali: Mom, free your mind of them. Fill it with Allah. If the whole world is unhappy with my wedding except Allah, that is more than enough. Their painful words will go away eventually. We just have to endure as long as they linger, but they will go away. Trust me. There is nothing more painful to a child than to see his parents sad.

Ali received a text...

Ahmad: Salam bro. My parents want to see you. Alone. Reply ASAP.

Ali: Ya Allah!

Mom: What’s wrong?

Ali: Look! Her parents want to see me, me alone.

Mom: Well, in that case, you will have my blessing if you get theirs. Go and meet them.

Ali: Are you serious? I’ve never done this before. Man, I think I’m having a heart attack. This is worse than the interview I went to for my scholarship. Any advice?

Dad: Don’t pee your pants, son.

Ali: ...

[Flashback ends]

Abi: Ali...I don't think this is going to work out.

Ali: I understand. If her wali says so, then that is the final say. I have no right to object. Thank you for having me in your lovely home. I think I’ll…I think I’ll take my leave now.

Alia is in the verge of tears as she watches Ali walks slowly towards the door.

Ali: Uncle, auntie…assalamualaikum.

As he steps out…

Abi: Ali...

Ali stops. Abi approaches him. Puzzled looks on Ahmad and Alia’s faces.

Abi: You came a long way. Take this as a gift.

Abi places something in Ali’s hand.

Ali: A ring?

Abi: For Alia. Well done, you passed!

Ali: Huh?

Abi: If I was to marry my daughter off to any man, I’d better make sure that he is the best for her.

Ahmad and Alia: SAY WHAT?!

Ummi smiles.

Episode 7 | Episode 9

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Read the original Malay version here.

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17 Again

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:46:00 PST

Bismillah.

Today was the first class of my Expressive Writing course. The professor began the class by simply telling us to take out a piece of paper and a pen, put away all electronic devices, and - as he eloquently put it - "make a mess".

The simplest of instructions: "make a mess" i.e. write about anything.

At first, I was stuck. I didn't know what to write. I looked around and I saw people writing and writing. How disturbing! What are they writing about? I was so worried about writing an awesome story that it took me a while to begin. At last, I picked a topic and just went with it.

As soon as my pen started dancing on the paper, it won't stop. Ideas were flowing. In my head, words were coming out so fast that I couldn't keep up to write all of them down. I just kept going and going.

And then he said, "Stop!"

I was like, "What?! I'm on a roll here!" Of course, I didn't say that out loud. I didn't want to disrespect a teacher so I put my pen down. But in my mind the story kept on going and going. Then, he started talking.

He asked, "What just happened?"

*****

Interesting question. What just happened? Little did I know that I was reliving a moment in my life that I have forgotten. A moment when I was so deeply lost in my writing that I was in my own world. Everything was at the tip of my pen.

I was 17 again.

I remember when the teacher would give us open ended essay questions. I remember when the essay question was as simple as a word.

"Snow."

That's it. That was the question! How beautiful such a question was. I feel like there are no limitations to what I can write. Snow could be a name. Snow could be an incident. Snow could be a virus. Snow could be my pet. Snow could be snow. It was awesome!

I miss writing such stories, where it's less about grades and more about creating a masterpiece. Comparing and sharing your masterpiece with others. Enjoying their work of art as they enjoy yours.

That was one of the very few instances when I really enjoy doing schoolwork.

Thank you, Professor John Currie, for reminding me of it.

"Tap into the wildness of your brain. That's where the good stuff is." (John Currie)

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Credit to xbooshbabyx

Lovely SMS (Ep. 7)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:57:00 PST

Ali places his cup on the table.

Ummi: You’re not thinking of wearing a typical baju kurung do you?

Alia: That would be ideal to me. However, I’m not going to blindly disregard our society. Of course I will present myself as a bride, but a Muslim bride. And, I will decide how much decoration I will wear.

Ali: Sorry, I would like to add something: I am confident that a Muslimah like Alia will bear the limitations in mind. And like Alia, I’m not totally ignoring the culture. Like I said before, we just need to filter out what we can’t wear and adopt what we can wear.

Abi: Okay, if Lia wants to decide on the dress that’s fine with me. But Ummi and I have to approve of it first. Just in case you come off looking too...unfashionable.

Ahmad is taken aback by what his father just said.

Alia: Abi, it’s impossible to satisfy every single person. I am tolerating as much as I can, within limits set by our religion. Let me wear what I wanna wear, please.

Abi looks at Ummi.

Ummi: We'll think about it.

Abi: Fine then, as long as the hantaran is still on the table. Ummi, remember the walimah we went to last week? Their hantaran was about RM10,000 right?

Ali: (Hesitated) With all due respect uncle, can we not do the hantaran as well?

Abi: Ali, this is getting ridiculous.

Ali: I'm very sorry. The issue here is that I can’t afford that much money. Besides, the hantaran isn’t a condition for a valid marriage. As long as the mahr is in order.

Abi: And what might the mahr be?

Alia: I think a ring would be fine. I don’t want to complicate things. Besides we’re not doing a business, this is a marriage.

Ummi: But Ali, it’ll be weird if we skip the hantaran.

Ahmad: (Clears throat) If I may, I think we can work something out.

All eyes on Ahmad.

Ahmad: What if we make the hantaran a set of clothing? Alia will buy a set for herself and then give it to Ali. Ali will do the same. No need for expensive clothes, as long as they look nice. Then we’ll present them in a fancy way; ala hantaran. Besides, decorations don’t cost much. It’s fancy, it looks like a normal hantaran, doesn’t cost much, and the things we buy are those that they’re gonna use often. Tadaa!

Ali: I’m good with that.

Alia: I never thought I’d say this, but I agree with Ahmad.

Abi: That is a good idea. But, during the walimah people are going to ask how much does the hantaran costs. They’ll ask what’s in it too! That’s normal, people do that. I can’t tell them that all we did for hantaran was a set of cheap clothes.

Ahmad is stumped. He was so sure that his idea would solve the problem.

Ummi: We understand that religion is important, but we have to take care of our image too.

Ali: With all due respect, I believe it is better for me to invest in my marriage rather than in my wedding. If we spend until our pockets are dry or until we’re in debt, is that a good start for any marriage? Is that a blessed first step? Why not use the money for what comes after the wedding?

Ummi: Don’t make it difficult, Ali. Can’t we just go along with how everybody does it? It’s easier that way.

Ali: It is easy and easiness is tempting. But, just because it’s easy doesn’t mean it’s right.

Abi: Look, do you want to marry my daughter or not?

Ahmad sends Alia a text...

Ahmad: Lia, what to do?

Alia: No idea :(

Tension mounts. Ali closes his eyes for a moment and breathes steadily, because what he’s about to say will determine everything. He knows it. He whispers “Bismillah” inaudibly, and then says…

Ali: Wallahi, right now I desire nothing more than marriage. Just thinking about it gives me happiness, I can only imagine what it feels like if I experience it for real. On top of that, I know that Alia is the kind of woman I’ve been looking for. However…

Pin-drop silence...

Ali: If marrying Alia means that I have to “divorce” Allah and His Messenger, then I'd rather sacrifice my pleasure for the pleasure of my Lord.

Ahmad: Yo Ali, what are you saying man?

Ali: I’m saying that if we’re going to make the people our reference point, then I'm afraid I won't go on. How can I be happy on my wedding day knowing that Allah, isn’t?

Abi and Ummi lock eyes.

Abi: Ali...I don't think this is going to work out.

Ahmad and Alia looks at Abi, almost in sync. Shocked.

Episode 6 | Episode 8

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Minah Itu

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:53:00 PST

Maria: Eh Lia, ko kenal Maryam tak? Putih-putih, pakai spek, ada dimple kat pipi dia, and boleh cakap omputih sampai berhabuk.

Alia: Hmm...kenal. Nape?

Maria: Aku baru je kenal ngan dia. Baru sedar yang dia sama university ngan kita. Sama course plak tu. Aku kenal dia kat Masjid time solat Isha. Dua, tiga hari lepas.

Alia: Baik kan dia?

Maria: Memang! Baik giler. Serious syok giler cakap ngan dia. Selalu jugak dia cakap pasal Allah dan Rasulullah. Tapi aku musykil satu benda la.

Alia: Apsal?

Maria: Minah tu cakap memang macam ustazah dah, tapi kat luar aku nampak dia tak pakai tudung pun. So aku macam tak leh nak terima la. Minah tu macam buat main-main je. Cam hipokrit pun ada gak!

Alia senyum.

Alia: Maria, "minah tu" ialah saudara seagama kita. Dia baru je masuk Islam dan family dia belum tahu yang dia ni Muslim. Dia tengah tunggu masa yang sesuai. Ko boleh bayangkan tak kena reject ngan mak ko sendiri?

Maria: Oh, ye ke. Err...tak tau la pulak.

Alia: Maria, everyone has a story. Kalau kita tak tau apa cerita sebenar dia, bersangka baik je la ek.

Maria: ...

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 6)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 04:42:00 PST

Abi: Ahmad, where’s Ali?

Ahmad: No idea. Wait, lemme text him.

Ali’s phone rings.

Ahmad: Where are you?

Ali: Outside your house. Scared to death!

Ahmad walks out of the house.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum!

Ali: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah.

Ahmad: Why didn’t you call me?

Ali: I’m freaking out here man! What should I say to your dad?

Ahmad: You think too much. You'll be fine. Just get in!

Slowly, Ali walks into the house.

Ali: Assalamualaikum, uncle.

Abi: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Please, take a seat.

Ali sits down. The sofa was comfortable, but he wasn’t. Abi can tell that he’s nervous and he remains silent, deliberately. He didn’t want to start. He smiles and waits. Alia comes out with the drinks.

Alia: Please, help yourself.

Ali takes a sip, hoping that the awkwardness will subside. Clearly it’s pointless. He realizes that he needs to step up.

Ali: (Clears throat) I think…you already know why I’m here right?

Abi: Why are you here?

Ali: Oh wow, okay. How do I say this?

Ahmad texted Alia.

Ahmad: Why is he playing around? He already knew why Ali’s here.

Alia: LOL! Typical Abi. Even I’m getting nervous right now.

Ali: Actually…I came here…to ask for (Clears throat) Alia’s hand…in…in marriage.

Abi: Marriage?

Ali: Yes.

Ummi: How old are you, Ali?

Ali: I’m 21, auntie.

Ummi: Oh, I see. Still studying?

Ali: Yes.

Abi: So when are you planning on getting married?

Ali: As soon as I can I guess. I don’t wanna rush it, but at the same time I don’t wanna delay it. One of the reasons I’m here is also to discuss about when to get married.

Ali is becoming less nervous now that he gained momentum.

Abi: Financially speaking, how are you doing?

Ali: Similar to Ahmad, I have a scholarship.

Abi: How much do you get per month?

Ali: Alhamdulillah, I receive $1300 per month. That’s more than enough if one spends it well.

Abi: You know that marriage isn’t cheap right? The modest walimah that I can think of costs about RM14,000. And that amount excludes bersanding, hantaran, hiring a makeup person, the wedding dress, and so on and so forth.

Ali: Bersanding? Pelamin?

Ali looks at Ahmad. Ahmad seems confused too.

Ahmad: Abi, are we doing the bersanding? Hantaran too?

Alia: Also, I wasn’t aware that you wanted to hire a person to do my makeup. I’m not even aware that I will wear makeup ‘cause I’m not the makeup-type person. You know that right?

Ummi: Well, it is your special day.

Ali: How about if we…skip the bersanding?

Abi: Why?

Ali: I feel uncomfortable when I imagine my wife being overly decorated and being displayed on a stage for everyone to see, especially to men. Each pair of eyes that set on my wife’s beauty is like an arrow to my heart.

Ummi: It’s just for a day.

Ali: I understand. It is a special day and the newlyweds are treated like kings. But even kings need to obey the King of kings right?

Abi: Here’s the thing: if we don’t do it the normal way, then what would the neighbours say?

Ahmad and Alia don’t like where this conversation is going.

Ali: We can’t satisfy everyone, uncle. I’m not saying that we eliminate all the cultural flavours from the walimah. What I’m saying is that we consider each one of them and see if it goes against Islam or not.

Ummi: But there are so many people who do it.

Ali: I can’t really say anything about them. That is between them and Allah. Right now, it’s between us and Allah.

Abi: So, no bersanding?

Ali: Preferably not, uncle. But if we want to do it anyway, how about we have a private bersanding session in a closed room with just sisters and close male relatives of the bride. And no pictures except with our own cameras, ‘cause I fear that people might upload them on Facebook, or Flickr, or anywhere else on the net. If she wants to wear makeup at that time, that’ll be okay too.

Abi: Don’t you think that is a bit too extreme?

Ali tries his best to keep his cool and maintain his adab.

Ali: With all due respect, I think what is extreme is Alia being dressed overly fancy and parading herself in front of other men.

Alia: Abi, I’m with Ali on that one. I think wearing a one-time-only fancy dress is a waste of money. I’m never gonna wear something that fancy on a daily basis. If it’s expensive but suitable to wear on a normal day, then that’s different. But then again, I’m not a big fan of expensive dresses.

Ummi: But I want you to look beautiful on that day. This walimah is a one-time thing you know?

With a gentle voice, Alia says...

Alia: Ummi, in whose eyes should I look beautiful for?

Silence fills the room...

Episode 5 | Episode 7

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Cry of the Borrower

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 21:03:00 PST

This lump of flesh that I have in my chest
It beats for the One to whom it belongs to
But being an ungrateful borrower that I am
I give it away to one who deserves it not

For shame! A total disregard of the Owner!
Such a beautiful Owner, Who is still there
Even though I gave it away, more than once
He is there, willing to recover a broken item

Now, I hold on to it close. Lock it so tightly
Trying so hard not to give you the golden key
Realize this, I am merely a poor key keeper
Entrusted by the Keymaker to keep it safe

Until one day. That day. How I long for that day!
That blessed day when the keys switch hands
Please, keep mine safe! I will keep yours safer
Unlock the hearts, for His permission was earned

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Reviving the Islamic Spirit Conference 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 07:53:00 PST

Bismillah.

Alhamdulillah, I'm blessed by Allah to attend this year's RIS conference. A conference that I looked forward to attend every year and so far I've attended all 3 conferences in my 3 years (almost) of being in Canada.

This year is particularly special because it's the 10th anniversary and for the first time in 10 years, the tickets were sold out! I witnessed a massive gathering of 20,000 Muslims who came primarily from North America. Subhanallah, Islam is growing strong in the west.

Anyway, I just want to write this post to record the gems that I've gathered from the wonderful speakers.

Sheikh Tawfique Chowdhury

Where is Allah in your plan? If you live a life where Allah is not a part of it, remember what Allah says in Surah at-Taubah, Ayah 24.

If we give Zakat, poverty will not exist.

They run away from the slavery for Allah and become slaves of themselves and Shaytan.

Sheikh Tawfique Chowdhury

Imam Yassir Fazaga

It is not enough to feed your children, to give them clothes, to send them to school, etc. They need directions.

The Prophet was always available for his family.

The Masjid is like a hospital. It is a place for anyone who is not doing well. What kind of a hospital that doesn't accept a sick person?

Imam Yassir Fazaga

Ambassador Shabazz (Malcolm X's eldest daughter)

Learn the other cultures while sharing ours.

Even if you can't see a Muslim in your midst, know that there's one around.

We guide, we support, but we don't push.

Ambassador Shabazz

Sheikh Abdul Hakim Jackson

Sometimes we have to give up our own rights, for something greater.

I don't have to strive to be unforgiving.

It's harder to do good deeds than to do bad ones.

One who is silent in the face of Dzulm (injustice) is like Shaytan, who just can't speak. (Arabic proverb)

They don't run to radicalism. They're actually running away from something else, towards radicalism.

We have to realize that we're not living in a land with just Muslims on it.

The key to making a marriage work is wanting it to work.

Relationships can't be preserved through the blame game.

Sheikh Abdul Hakim Jackson

Dr. Umar Faruq

Titanic was a sign of Allah. It is a lesson. Is that lesson learned?

We may not see the problems in our lifetime, but what about our children's lifetime?

This world is the garden for the animals and the plants. We have to allow them to cultivate this garden. Our Garden is not here but in the Hereafter. We're just passing by.

We don't eat pigs but pigs are also God's creation. They glorify God.

It's not enough that the animals are killed properly, but we have to demand that they lived properly.

If we do not apply the knowledge we have, it may become a proof against us.

Subjectivity and egotism of this world will be removed in the Hereafter. Only objectivity and truth remains. All egos will be crushed.

Evil is never absolute. It's always limited and it's there for a purpose. Evil always come to an end, even though you might think it won't be.

God creates good and evil. Human beings acquire good and evil. But God is not evil, He is all good. He created evil to test us. He doesn't acquire evil but He allows us to acquire evil.

Our belief in the Hereafter must be our highest moral principle.

The best of all people are those who are keys to open up good and locks to lock down evil.

Dr. Umar Faruq

Sheikh Sulaiman Mulla

The gaze of a believer is deep and far reaching to the end result.

A system that survives on usury and interest is like feeding a person unhealthy food.

Speak the truth. Allah will amplify your voice.

I fear when everyone will value his own opinion that there's no room for other opinions.

Aspire to inspire before you expire.

It's not that obesity runs in your family, but nobody runs in your family.

Don't fear anything in this world except the consequences of your sins.

The regret of one who couldn't sin is worse than the pleasure of one who sins.

Don't attach your hopes to the creations.

Sheikh Sulaiman Mulla

Habib Ali al-Jifri

Our religion is the religion of love. Period.

Habib Ali al-Jifri

Imam Zaid Shakir

This is a great time to be a Muslim. Don't wish for another time. This is our time.

An irresponsible Muslim is an oxymoron.

Never think that you can't contribute anything positive to the society using the teachings of Islam. There are people out there who wants to listen to what you have to say as a Muslim. So start talking!

Allah Praises the builders and Dislikes the talkers.

Don't fear talented people. Unleash them!

Don't suppress the creative energy of women.

One who attaches his heart to the world is attaching his heart to something that isn't permanent.

We will never be an illuminated community until we couple faith with love.

Imam Zaid Shakir

Sheikh Hamza Yusuf

Patriotism is not the same as nationalism.

It's ridiculous to question one's patriotism just because one points out the flaws of one's country.

If you treat them like human beings, they will behave like human beings.

Never seek the pleasure of the people by displeasing God.

Do little with great love.

Not all corporations are evil, just most of them.

Commodity-backed wealth is the only sound form of wealth.

The Prophet will never betray you.

Sheikh Hamza Yusuf

Yusuf Islam (formerly known as Cat Stevens)

Between the beginning and the end is the purpose.

To ignore the existence of Satan is fatal.

There is no barrier between you and Allah.

Yusuf Islam

That is all I guess.

FYI, Muslim Matters did an excellent summary of the conference. Click here to read the article.

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 5)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 07:00:00 PST

Alia is staring at the message she got from her brother.

Ahmad: He accepted. Alhamdulillah!

Ahmad: Whatchu doin’?!

Alia: AH! You startled me you moron!

Ahmad: Ops, sorry. Counting your Eid money?

Alia: Eid has passed bro. I’m looking at the message you sent me when you went to Ali’s house not too long ago.

Ahmad: I see what’s goin’ on. You loooove him, do you?

Alia: Dude I'm gonna yank that beard off yo face! I’m thinking about marriage, not him.

Ahmad: Whoa, somebody’s in a bad mood. I’m just teasing kiddo.

Alia: Are they in the room?

Ahmad: Yup. Wanna meet them now?

Alia: I guess. Wanna come with?

Ahmad: Don’t tell me that you’re scared. C’mon, they won’t bite. I think.

Alia: Of course they won’t. But, I don’t know. I kinda feel awkward I guess. Come with me!

Ahmad: Alright, alright.

Ahmad knocks on his parents’ bedroom door.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum.

Ummi: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Come in.

Alia: Are you guys free now?

Abi: Pretty much. We’re just waiting for Isha.

Alia: I wanna discuss something with you guys, is that okay?

Ummi: Sure. But it won’t be much of a discussion if you guys just stand there at the door. Come on in.

Alia: (Chuckles) O. Yeah. Right.

Alia and Ahmad come in and sit near Ummi and Abi. Alia looks very nervous.

Alia: (Exhales) Bismillah. Actually, I...

Ahmad: SHE CAN’T WAIT TO GET MARRIED!

Alia: Oi, you’re ruining it! I’m trying to set up the mood here!

Ahmad: Who told you to invite me just now? (Laughs)

Alia throws a pillow at him. Ummi and Abi just smile.

Alia: (Clears throat) Anyway, you guys knew that last week Ali accepted my proposal. But unfortunately, we didn’t get the chance to talk about it ‘cause it’s Eid and I didn’t think it was the right time. So I just wanna pick up where we left off.

Abi: Hmm...okay. Are you, sure about Ali?

Alia: Well, I knew that he is a good person. Plus, I’ve basically “interrogated” Ahmad trying to get to know him better, especially how he is as a Muslim. Ahmad is his best friend after all. After that, I did my istikharah and I am confident about my decision. What’s left is tawakul to Allah.

Ummi: What about your studies? Won’t it be affected?

Alia: I’ve heard many times people say that marriage will negatively affect your studies. A lot of people flunked their grades because of it. But I don’t think that’s fair, because the opposite is also true. I’ve known people who excelled in their studies after marriage. But very few talk about that. Marriage is not the issue, it’s the person itself who is not ready for it.

Ummi: True. But, is there a possibility of perhaps postponing this until graduation?

Alia: I’m just afraid that I couldn’t control my heart. If the situation permits, why not do it right away right?

Abi: Are you sure you’re ready? It ain’t a walk in the park you know.

Alia: What do you think? Am I ready to be a wife?

Abi gives it a thought.

Abi: I think you would be a great wife. Like your mother.

Ahmad: Smooth.

Ummi smiles.

Alia: I realized that marriage is not easy, unlike being in a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship; easy and commitment-free. But, it lacks the blessing of Allah in it. I’d rather face the hardship, knowing that there’s blessing in it than to enjoy the ease that will displease Him.

Abi: Good answer.

Ummi: Why do you want to get married?

Alia: Wherever Allah’s pleasure is at, that’s where I’ll be.

Ahmad: O snap!

Alia: I also see this as an opportunity for da’wah. We’ve been saying time and time again to young people that coupling is haram, haram, and haram but we rarely talk about the alternative of it. On top of just talking about it, we show them an example. Hopefully we can inspire them.

Abi looks at Ummi. Ummi nods.

Abi: Ahmad, please invite Ali to our house tomorrow.

Ahmad: Okay, I’ll ask him and his parents to come.

Abi: Nope, just him.

Ahmad: Seriously?

Episode 4 | Episode 6

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 4)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 07:00:00 PST

Ali’s phone rings. One message received…

Ahmad: On my way.

15 minutes later, the door is knocked.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum!

Ali: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah! Come in.

Ahmad: Are your parents home?

Ali: Nope, they went out to buy food for iftar.

Ahmad: And you didn’t go with them?

Ali: Nah, I don’t feel like it. This year I wanna cut back on my trips to Ramadhan bazaars ‘cause I always step out of one with more than I need.

Ahmad: Nice.

Ali: Hey, take a seat bro.

Ahmad: Thanks. So…what's happenin' bro? It's been three weeks. When are you going to make your move?

Ali: Yeah, bout that. Recently I’ve been preoccupied with my parents, talking to them about this marriage thingy. My parents, Alhamdulillah they do have Islam, but sometimes culture can take over you know.

Ahmad: Oh, what seems to be the problem?

Ali: Well, the usual stuff I guess. My mom wants me to do a bersanding session, a big ol’ walimah, an engagement party, and the list goes on and on man. Some of this cultural stuff I don’t even know about dude!

Ahmad: What about your dad?

Ali: He’s a simple guy. He said no hantaran, mahr is enough.

Ahmad: Well, that’s good right? Hantaran is not even a requirement. Besides, people tend to go overboard with that kind of stuff.

Ali: Yeah, I guess. But he still needs convincing though.

Ahmad: Was that all that you guys discussed?

Ali: We did discuss about Alia. I briefly told them about her based on what you told me. You didn’t lie to me did you?

Ahmad: Bro, I think you had too much falafel for suhur. I wouldn’t lie to you, especially in something like this. Everything that I've told you about her is 100% true; the good and the bad. If I did lie to you, you would find out about it after marriage anyway and all hell will break loose! I wouldn't do that to you, you’re my bro.

Ali: Whoa, hey! I’m just checkin’ to make sure. No need for bromance.

Ahmad: But I gotta be honest with you. I’m a bit worried about your potential walimah, especially the whole bersanding thing. I can’t bear to see my sister looking like some Chinese opera character and being displayed to people like that.

Ali: I hear you. I keep reminding them the real reason why we do walimah in the first place and that is to publicize the marriage to people, and not to publicize how rich we are. Not only that, I told them that I want Allah’s blessing in every step of the way.

Ahmad: What do you mean?

Ali: You know, I wanna start this marriage on the right foot. If my beginning is not blessed, then what about my ending? Gotta think long term bro. That’s how we roll.

Ahmad: Masha Allah, you’re right. I hadn’t thought of that. Must’ve been hard to convince your parents.

Ali: It is. But Alhamdulillah, I noticed that their heart is opening up to how I wanna do things. It’s not that I’m against our culture. Some of them are actually very good. But you gotta filter ‘em out you know? What goes well with Islam will stay and what doesn’t will go bye bye.

Ahmad: So, what now?

Ali: Well, I’ve arranged a meeting between my parents and this one Ustadh I know. FYI, he’s cool. I think it'll be easier to get the message across if they heard it from someone their age and of religious authority, hopefully.

Ahmad: I hope everything will go well.

Ali: Ameen. Wait a minute! Don’t you have driver's ed today? Why did you come here all of a sudden?

Ahmad: I had to postpone it, pulled some strings in the process. Kinda pulled my hamstring on my way over here too. Man, I gotta fix that bike ASAP!

Ali: Still riding that bike around huh?

Ahmad: You bet! Anyway, I got something more important to do.

Ali: What’s up?

Ahmad: Lia sent me here. She wants to propose to you.

Ali: Say what?!

Episode 3 | Episode 5

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Haya'

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 20:03:00 PST

Took this photo last year during Eid. I was looking at this photo today and thought of modesty. I searched for a Hadeeth about modesty and came across this Hadeeth which is a perfect fit to the picture.

Haya': pious shyness from committing religeous indiscretions.

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 3)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:28:00 PST

3 months passed by.

Alia: Assalamualaikum!

Ahmad: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah! You’re home late.

Alia: I stayed after class because I wanted to ask the Sheikh a few questions. You wouldn’t believe how many people wanted to ask questions. There was a long queue!

Ahmad: Wow, you guys really dig the course I see.

Alia: Well, it’s a course about marriage after all. No wonder people are all excited. Alhamdulillah, the Sheikh made a Q&A session after class just for sisters. Brothers were dominating with their questions during class.

Ahmad: You learned a lot?

Alia: Subhanallah, I was blown away! I was like, “Why didn’t I learn about this before?!” Marriage is beautiful, even more beautiful if we do it Sunna-style. If I knew it before, I wouldn’t have considered even the idea of having a boyfriend.

Ahmad: So it’s safe to say that you’re ready to get married?

Alia: Well, I talked with Ummi and Abi last night. They were like okay with the idea, as long as my studies are okay.

Ahmad: Hey, jackpot!

Alia: I know right? Okay, I’m gonna go freshen up. I'm so tired, I'm starting to see your belly as a fluffy pillow.

Ahmad: Are you sure you're not just high?

Alia: Say what?!

Ahmad: Easy tiger, I'm just playin'. Well, you went from early morning till nighttime...on freakin' weekends! No wonder you're tired. Anyway, dinner is on the table. Go eat when you’re ready.

Alia: Ayte!

Ahmad’s phone vibrates. A text message from his friend…

Ali: Is she ready?

Ahmad: Yup. Your move, buddy.

Episode 2 | Episode 4

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 2)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:00:00 PST

Ahmad: Lia, c’mon! We’re leaving.

Alia: I’m not in the mood. Couldn't I just stay home?

Ahmad: Alone? I don’t think so. Besides, Abi wants everyone to go. It’s family time. What’s with the long face?

Alia didn’t respond. She keeps rubbing her phone, as if it was a magic lamp. Ahmad senses something is deeply wrong. He sits beside her.

Ahmad: Lia, what's wrong?

Alia: Remember the time when you said something about sins being cheaper? I can’t get that out of my mind ever since. So I decided to have a talk with my boyfriend.

Ahmad wasn’t pleased to hear the word “boyfriend”, but he keeps his cool and listens to his sister intently.

Alia: I told him that what we’re doing is not right. It’s not like we didn't know what is halal and what is haram. But, I don’t know. Maybe our hearts were making excuses, trying to justify this relationship and make it “halal” somehow.

Ahmad: What kind of excuses?

Alia: Well, it’s not like we were holding hands or went out on dates or anything like that. If I was to spend time with him, it’ll be in a study group. Sometimes we would grab a bit to eat with other friends, so that we won’t be alone. But deep down – deep deep down – I knew something wasn’t right. I kinda knew that I was just trying to find an excuse to spend more time with him. I kinda knew that the voice in my head was from Shaytan, who kept saying, “It’s fine! You’re doing nothing wrong.”

Ahmad: Okay, that was then. What about now?

Alia: After hearing what you said about sins and stuff, my heart started screaming; telling me to get out while I can. Pursue a halal relationship, like for real. So, we had the talk and I explained everything. But then he got mad at me. There was yelling, and stuff that shouldn't be said came out, and I started crying, and...and...

Beads of tears start falling from her eyes.

Ahmad: Let me guess...he broke up with you?

Alia nods.

Alia: Why is it hard to find a good guy? Why? I mean, I like him a lot. He cared about me. Not to mention that he went to Islamic school. I was so sure that he’s a good guy, someone that I want to marry someday.

Ahmad gently wipes her tears.

Ahmad: So, you want to marry him huh?

Alia nods.

Ahmad: And you’re sure that he’ll make a good husband?

Alia nods again.

Ahmad: The same guy that agreed to make you his girlfriend, even though he knew better that it’s not the right thing to do?

Alia didn’t nod anymore. What he said strikes a chord.

Ahmad: Are you awake yet? Rise and shine kiddo!

Alia laughs.

Ummi: Ahmad! Lia! Let’s go!

Episode 1 | Episode 3

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Unwanted

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 19:58:00 PST

"And do not approach fornication."
You've heard that line again and again
If only you'd listen, I wouldn't happen
You knew! So don't call me an accident!

Please! Please don't throw me away!
I am unwanted, I know that today
But I didn't ask to be here okay?!
Nor do I want life to end this way

Do not make one more mistake
Turn to Allah, He will surely forgive
Take me home, for Allah's sake
I came here not to die, but to live

O you who believe, let me be a lesson!
Please listen and pay close attention
Allah, in His Wisdom and Perfection
Said, "Do not approach fornication."

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Lovely SMS (Ep. 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 21:14:00 PST

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum, is Ummi here?

Alia: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Nope, she went to work. Where were you?

Ahmad: I bought nasi lemak for breakfast. Here, take one.

Alia: Put it on the table. I’ll eat it later.

Alia (Ahmad’s sister) is busy on her phone, texting someone.

Ahmad: Wow, look at you go! You’re killing that keypad sis! Who are you texting, the Prime Minister?

Alia: Nah! I’m texting a friend.

Ahmad: Friend, or boyfriend? Come on Lia, I’ve known you like the back of my hand…and the front! I can tell if you’re texting a friend or “someone else”.

Ahmad quietly takes a peep at Alia’s phone and he saw her lovey-dovey messages.

Alia: Hey, mind your own business!

Ahmad: Yeah right. The thing is, whenever you want to top up your prepaid credit you’ll come crawling to me. If this is how my money is being spent, say goodbye to future top ups kiddo.

Alia: Whoa, chill out bro! Did your PMS kick in this morning? Don’t worry, I have a good plan: 0.5 cent per text. That’s not even 1 cent!

Ahmad: Hmm...it’s different now.

Alia: What is?

Ahmad: Sins are cheaper now huh?

Alia: ...

Episode 2

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Read the original Malay version here.

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Cinta SMS (Ep. 10) - Episod Terakhir

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:00:00 PST

Alia: Abi nak jumpa Lia?

Abi: Yes. Come, sit with me for a moment.

Alia: Ada apa Abi?

Abi: Ada something yang ayah Ali cakap yang buat Abi berfikir. Allah, lajunye masa berlalu! Abi masih lagi tengok Lia ni macam Lia ni umur 5 tahun. Tak sangka Lia dah nak berkahwin dah.

Alia: Abi, tak kira la umur Lia 5 tahun or 20 tahun ke, I will always be your little girl kan?

Abi: Haha...I guess so. Tapi Insha Allah, bulan depan Lia akan jadi isteri Ali. That means that he will be your No. 1 man, not me. Not anymore. Lia faham ke?

Alia: Jangan cakap camtu Abi, sedih Lia dengar.

Abi: Lia...Lia faham ke?

Alia menangis.

Alia: Ye Abi, Lia faham. But...you will always be my first love.

Abi menangis lalu memeluk Alia.

Abi: I love you so much.

*****

Sebulan berlalu. Kedua-dua keluarga berada di dalam masjid untuk majlis akad nikah.

Ali: Oit, sampin aku senget ke?

Ahmad: Dah OK la bro. Brapa kali ko nak tanya aku ni?

Ali: Nervous kot! Tak sangka ramai giler orang datang.

Ahmad: Tak payah pikir banyak sangat la. Ngada-ngada la ko ni!

Ali: Hello brader! Nanti bila ko kawen plak aku nak tengok, nervous ke tak.

Ahmad senyum sahaja.

Abi: Tok Imam, saya tahu yang kebiasaannya wali akan bagi kuasa wali kat Imam untuk langsungkan perkahwinan. Tapi untuk anak saya ni, saya nak langsungkan sendiri. Imam tolong jadi saksi la ye?

Imam: Boleh, takda masalah. Itu kan hak encik. Pihak perempuan ada tetapkan apa-apa syarat kepada pihak lelaki?

Abi: Ada.

Imam: Pihak lelaki setuju?

Ali: Ye, saya dah setuju dengan syarat-syarat tu. Semua detail ada dalam kontrak perkahwinan ni.

Imam: Biar saya check dulu kontrak ni ye? Sebab kadang-kadang orang tetapkan syarat-syarat yang tak munasabah, lebih-lebih lagi yang melanggar agama.

Ali: Takda masalah. Bagus jugak Tok Imam check dulu, just to make sure.

Imam meneliti kontrak yang diberikan.

Imam: Hmm...saya tak nampak apa-apa masalah. Alhamdulillah, tinggal ijab kabul ja la.

Abi: Bismillah...

Ali bersedia.

Abi: Aku nikahkan engkau, Ali bin Abdullah, dengan anakku, Alia binti Ibrahim, dengan mahar RM2,000.

Ali: Saya terima nikahnya.

Abi: Alhamdulillah, welcome to the family.

Abi memeluk Ali.

Ali: Terima kasih...Abi.

*****

Walimah berlangsung. Suasana meriah dengan pukulan kompang dan nyanyian nasyid. Rakan-rakan dan saudara mara datang untuk meraikan penyatuan dua keluarga ini. Mereka yang kaya, miskin, anak-anak yatim, dan mereka yang alim semua dijemput hadir. Dua khemah besar membahagikan lelaki dan perempuan.

Di khemah lelaki...

Ahmad: Bro! Ko dah jadi suami orang la skang!

Ali: Alhamdulillah, aku bertuah. Best friend aku dah jadi ipar aku.

Ahmad: On that note, ko kena jaga-jaga skit la. Kalau Alia tak bahagia, aku sekeh ko!

Ali: Rilek bro, rilek.

Ayah: Ali, mana Mak letak bunga telur yang banyak-banyak tu? Bakul ni dah kosong.

Ali: Ada kat dalam rumah, sebelah telefon. Ayah tunggu sini la, biar Ali amikkan.

Ayah: Eh eh, tak payah! Ali layan tetamu sudah. Ramai kawan nak jumpa.

Bakar: Assalamualaikum! Ali my brader, barakallah!

Ali: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Thanks bro! Mintak doa banyak-banyak tau.

Bakar: No hal, boleh aja. Ahmad, assalamualaikum!

Ahmad: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah!

Bakar: Ahmad, Samad tengah carik ko la.

Ahmad: Oh ye ke? Mana dia?

Bakar: Tu ha, dok ngan si Amin, si Hakim, and si Bakri.

Ahmad: Oi Ali, jom gi jumpa diorang!

Ali: Jom! Eh jap, mana phone aku ek?

Ahmad: Ni ha, kan tadi ko suruh aku pegang?

Ali: Ops, lupa. Bak sini phone tu.

Di khemah perempuan...

Alia: Eh...Anis?

Anis: Assalamualaikum!

Alia: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah! Bila masa ko balik? Ingatkan kat universiti lagi.

Anis: Aku amik cuti la. Takkan la nak miss walimah ko kot. Ni ha, siap bawak geng lagi.

Alia: Ya Rabbi! Nur, Laila, Aishah! Korang datang rupanya. Mati-mati aku ingat tak datang tadi. Dah la tak mesej pape pun.

Aishah: Mabruk Lia! Of course la kitorang datang. Kena la memenuhi jemputan, lebih-lebih lagi jemputan ke walimah ko.

Nur: Tahniah! Saje je tak mesej sebab nak bagi surprise.

Laila: Eh, pinggan mane ek? Aku lapar ni.

Alia: Eh sorry sorry! Korang tetamu istimewa, masuk ke dalam rumah je la. Ummi aku ada kat dalam.

Nur, Laila, dan Aishah bergerak masuk ke dalam.

Alia: Anis? Tunggu apa lagi?

Anis: Erm Lia...Ahmad mana?

Alia: Tu! Dok ngan Ali.

Anis: Oh...OK. So, tu la suami ko?

Alia: Yup!

Telefon Alia berbunyi. Ali menghantar SMS...

Ali: Tiba-tiba rasa macam sorang poet pulak hari ni.

Alia: Hihi...really?

Ali: Betul la.

Alia: How come?

Ali: I looked at you today and a poem was written in my head. Subhanallah, tetiba jek!

Alia tersenyum sendirian, sambil menjeling-jeling kepada suaminya. Ali dapat menangkap jelingan isterinya itu.

Alia: Mana poemnya?

Ali: Ala...takkan nak bagi pakai SMS je kot?

Alia: Abang sibuk layan tetamu, Lia pun sibuk layan tetamu. SMS pun kira OK la, at least for now.

Ali: Okay, you ready?

Alia: Iye. Bajet je abang ni, macam la poem dia bagus sangat.

Ali: Amboi!

Alia: Kihkih...gurau je. Silakan Mr. Poet!

Alia menunggu SMS daripada suaminya...

Ali:
My love for you is not of this earth, but of the Heavens
Yet I know it's not possible, because Heaven is greater
And the greatest of all Heavens, is the one with you in it
For Heaven will not feel heavenly without you, my love

Alia terduduk. Perlahan-lahan air matanya mengalir dan berhenti di bibirnya yang sedang mengukirkan senyuman.

Anis: Alia? Nape nangis ni?

Alia: Lain rasanya...

Anis: Apa yang lain?

Alia: Bila lafaz cinta itu halal, memang lain rasanya.

Anis memandang Ahmad di seberang sana...

*TAMAT*

Cinta SMS, karya Aiman Azlan

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My Love

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 22:40:00 PST

My love for you is not of this earth, but of the Heavens
Yet I know it's not possible, because Heaven is greater
And the greatest of all Heavens, is the one with you in it
For Heaven will not feel heavenly without you, my love

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I know that 'Ali made a lot of poems for his beloved wife, Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with them). I'm just practicing :)

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Cinta SMS (Ep. 9)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:42:00 PST

Ahmad menghantar SMS kepada adiknya...

Ahmad: Oi budak! Mana biskut ngan air? Org tgh lapar ni!

Alia: SABAR LA!

Alia berjalan ke ruang tamu dengan juadah untuk dihidangkan kepada tetamu: Ali dan ibu bapanya.

Mak: Oh, ni Alia ke?

Ummi: The one and only.

Mak: Ish...ish...lawanya!

Alia senyum malu. Ahmad pula sedang menahan ketawa.

Abi: Encik ni pengetua skolah kat sebelah traffic light tu ye?

Ayah: Ye betul. Tapi Insha Allah 2 tahun lagi retire la. It's about time la anak tunggal saya ni kahwin.

Abi: Alhamdulillah. Insha Allah cikgu.

Ayah: Ali, bila plan nak buat perkahwinan ni?

Ali: Bergantung kepada Ayah ngan pak cik la. Bagi Ali, benda ni tak elok ditangguh lama sangat.

Abi: Kalau bulan depan macam mana?

Ayah: Bagus jugak tu.

Mak: OK ke Ali?

Ali: Ali orait je Mak.

Abi: Kita buat akad nikah hari Jumaat kat masjid seberang jalan tu selepas solat Jumaat. After that, kita terus buat kenduri sampai lewat petang.

Ayah: Oh ya, cakap pasal kenduri ni kan. Since kita dok dekat-dekat je, saya fikir kita buat satu kenduri je cukup. Tak perlu la buat sampai dua kali.

Abi: Takda masalah. Kita split cost half and half la ye?

Ayah: Eh eh, tak perlu! Bab kenduri biar pihak lelaki yang handle. Pihak perempuan tak perlu belanja satu sen pun, sebab encik bakal hand over tanggungjawab encik ke atas Alia kat anak saya ni. Bagi saya, itu satu pengorbanan yang...priceless.

Abi: Bila fikir balik, memang sedih pun. Tapi saya rasa kurang senang kalau tak buat apa-apa untuk membantu. At least biar saya handle invitations. I insist.

Ayah: Kalau encik rasa macam tu, ok la. Erm...maharnya pulak macam mana? Pihak perempuan mintak apa?

Abi memandang Alia.

Alia: Saya mintak sebentuk cincin saja sebagai mahar.

Ali: Oh, cincin yang pak cik bagi saya minggu lepas tu ke?

Abi: Actually, tu cincin yang pak cik bagi kat isteri pak cik.

Ummi: Pak cik hadiahkan kat mak cik time kami kahwin dulu. Skang mak cik nak bagi cincin tu kat Alia.

Abi: Sebagai mahar pula, pak cik nak mintak yang lain.

Alia: Aik?

Abi: Don't worry Lia. Sebagai wali Abi boleh tetapkan mahar. Camni Ali, pak cik nak mintak sejumlah wang sebagai mahar Alia. Wang sebanyak RM2,000. Macam mane?

Ayah dan Mak memandang Ali. Ali nampak sedikit risau.

Abi: Mungkin Ali rasa pelik kenapa pak cik mintak wang kan? Sedangkan sebentuk cincin tu nampak modest. Ali tahu tak mahar yang Rasulullah bagi kat Aishah merupakan sejumlah wang emas? Lebih kurang 500 dirham dia bagi.

Ali: Iye? Oh, saya tak tahu pulak.

Abi: Pak cik consider jugak yang Ali masih lagi belajar dan pak cik consider jugak nilai mahar yang sesuai untuk wanita seperti Alia. Pak cik fikir RM2,000 itu reasonable. Betul?

Ali: Betul. Saya mampu tunaikan mahar tu.

Perbincangan ini berterusan selama hampir 2 jam. Tibalah masa untuk Ali dan ibu bapanya pulang.

Abi: Terima kasih sebab sudi datang cikgu.

Ayah: Oh takda masalah.

Mak: Saya mintak diri dulu.

Ummi: Nanti datang la lagi ye?

Ali dan ibu bapanya beredar.

Ummi: Lia, ikut Ummi pegi bilik jap.

Alia: OK.

Dalam bilik Ummi.

Ummi: Nah.

Alia: Apa ni Ummi?

Ummi: Ni baju pengantin time Ummi kahwin ngan Abi dulu. Ummi simpan elok-elok sampai skang, menunggu masa nak bagi kat anak Ummi.

Alia: Muat ke ni Ummi?

Ummi: Hello...tolong skit! Ummi dulu slim kot. Insha Allah muat.

Alia: Hehe...terima kasih Ummi. Sayang Ummi.

Ummi: Baju kurung ni maybe outdated skit. Nanti kita sama-sama hias baju ni bagi lawa skit.

Alia: OK Ummi, kita hias sama-sama. Tapi, kalau tak dihias pun Lia dah happy dah. Sebab Lia dapat pakai baju yang exactly sama yang Ummi pakai. I can't imagine a prettier dress.

Ahmad ketuk pintu.

Ummi: Masuk.

Ahmad: Uish, baju sape tu?

Alia: Ni baju yang Ummi pakai time dia kahwin ngan Abi dulu.

Ahmad: Pergh, legendary kot baju tu!

Alia: Haha...jeles?

Ahmad: Ceit! Eh Lia, Abi nak cakap skit ngan ko.

Alia: Ye ke? Okeh, Lia datang skang.

Alia keluar.

Ahmad: Erm...Ummi?

Ummi: Ye?

Ahmad: Abi ada simpan lagi baju pengantin dia?

Ummi: Hmm...rasanya ada. Kenape?

Ahmad: I was just curious. OK la, Ahmad nak gi kemas ruang tamu jap.

Ahmad berjalan menuju pintu.

Ummi: Ahmad?

Ahmad: Ye?

Ummi: Anis apa khabar?

Ahmad: ...

Cinta SMS (Ep. 8) | Cinta SMS (Ep. 10) - Episod Terakhir

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Summer Green

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 19:24:00 PDT

Last summer, me and a couple of friends went on a short field trip to Webster Falls, Hamilton, Canada. We stopped here for a picnic. Once I saw this view, I knew I had to grab my camera.

[Click to enlarge]

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Cinta SMS (Ep. 8)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 14:57:00 PDT

Abi: Ali...I don't think this is going to work out.

Ali menghembus nafas yang berat di dada, tidak mampu berkata apa-apa.

[Flashback]

Ali mengetuk pintu bilik ibu bapanya.

Ali: Assalamualaikum.

Ayah: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Masuk la.

Ali duduk bersama-sama ibu bapanya.

Ali: So...camne meeting kita ngan ustaz tadi? What do you guys think?

Mak: Hmm...kami faham and setuju ngan apa yang ustaz cakapkan.

Ali: Tapi?

Ayah: Tapi cakap tu senang, buat tu susah.

Ali: Ali tahu yang cara Ali nak kahwin akan mendapat cemuhan orang. Ali tahu jugak yang Mak Ayah akan terima komen-komen yang mungkin boleh mengguris hati.

Ali dapat baca kerisauan di muka ibu bapanya.

Ali: Tapi kalau kita dok ikut saja ngan apa yang masyarakat nak, angguk saja ngan adat-adat yang kita tahu bercanggah ngan Islam...then when will it end? Someone has to start the change, and I want to be that someone.

Ayah: Alia pulak macam mana?

Ali: Dia sama macam Ali. Dia nak perkahwinan yang simple, tapi tak de la menolak semua adat Melayu.

Ayah: Parents dia pulak?

Ali: Tak tau la. Ali tak penah jumpa diorang lagi. Hopefully diorang sama macam Alia la. So, Mak Ayah ok la ngan keputusan Ali ek?

Ayah: Ayah rasa Ali dah cukup matang untuk tahu betapa beratnya perkahwinan ni. Kalau Ali cakap yang Ali dah ready untuk hadapi suma tu, Ayah restu je.

Ali: Mak? Mak nampak cam tengah pikir something je.

Mak: Mak boleh predict yang kawan-kawan mak akan cakap macam-macam.

Ali: Mak, pikir pasal Allah je Mak. Kalau satu dunia tak suka tapi Allah je yang suka, itu dah lebih dari cukup Mak. Percaya la, kata-kata tajam diorang tu akan hilang eventually. Cuma at the beginning je kita kena bersabar skit. Kalau boleh, Ali tak nak tengok Mak or Ayah sakit hati.

Ali terima SMS dari Ahmad...

Ahmad: Salam bro. Parents aku nak jumpa ko. Ko sorang je la. Amacam?

Ali: Ya Allah!

Mak: Kenapa ni?

Ali: Ni ha, si Ahmad hantar mesej. Katanya parents Alia nak jumpa Ali. Nak jumpa Ali sorang je.

Mak: Well, in that case Mak akan restu kalau parents Alia restu. Ali pegi la jumpa diorang.

Ali: Serius? Ali tak penah buat benda camni. Gabra nih! Lagi gabra daripada interview untuk scholarship. Ada kata-kata semangat tak?

Ayah: Jangan terkencing dalam seluar okeh?

Ali: ...

[Flashback tamat]

Abi: Ali...I don't think this is going to work out.

Ali: Saya faham. Kalau wali Alia tak restu, saya tiada hak untuk bantah. Terima kasih kerana sudi luangkan masa ngan saya. Saya...mintak diri dulu.

Alia berlinangan dengan air mata. Ali berdiri dan berjalan menuju pintu masuk.

Ali: Pak cik, mak cik...assalamualaikum.

Ali hampir melangkah keluar...

Abi: Ali...

Ali berhenti. Abi berjalan menuju Ali. Semua menumpukan perhatian kepada mereka berdua.

Abi: Jauh awak datang, ambil la ni sebagai hadiah.

Abi meletakkan sesuatu dalam tangan Ali.

Ali: Cincin?

Abi: Untuk Alia. Tahniah, awak lulus!

Ali: HA?!

Abi: Kalau saya nak kahwinkan sesape ngan Alia, saya nak make sure that he is the best for her.

Ahmad dan Alia: Laaaaaaaa.....

Ummi senyum.

Cinta SMS (Ep. 7) | Cinta SMS (Ep. 9)

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Cinta SMS (Ep. 7)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 11:27:00 PDT

Ali meletakkan cawannya ke atas meja.

Ummi: Habis takkan la Lia nak pakai baju kurung biasa je?

Alia: Itulah hasrat hati Lia. Simple. Tapi, Lia bukannya tidak mengambil kira persepsi masyarakat langsung. Of course Lia akan tampil bagi nampak seperti seorang pengantin. Cuma, perhiasan Lia tu akan terkawal dan tidak melampaui batas. So, Lia akan decide sendiri setakat mana Lia nak berhias.

Ali: Maaf, nak mencelah skit. Saya setuju ngan Alia dan yakin muslimah macam Alia ni akan tahu batas-batasnya. Saya pun takda la ignore culture totally. Macam saya cakap tadi, kita cuma kena filter out yang mana tak boleh pakai and adopt mana yang boleh.

Abi: Kejap, kalau Lia nak decide baju takda masalah. Tapi, kena bagi Ummi Abi approve dulu. Takut-takut nampak kampung sangat pulak, malu kita ngan jiran-jiran.

Ahmad terkesima dengan kata-kata Abi.

Alia: Abi, kita bukan boleh nak puaskan hati suma orang. Lia ni pun tengah bertolak ansur sebanyak mungkin, within Islamic limits. Izinkan la Lia pakai pakaian yang selesa buat Lia.

Abi pandang Ummi.

Ummi: We'll think about it.

Abi: Ok la. Janji hantaran ada. Ummi, hari tu kat kenduri minggu lepas diorang buat hantaran RM10,000 kan?

Ali: Erk pak cik, erm...boleh tak kalau kita tak buat hantaran?

Abi: Haish, jangan camtu Ali. Suma benda tak leh buat ni.

Ali: Saya mintak maaf Pak Cik. Isunya ialah saya ni tidak mampu untuk sediakan duit sebegitu banyak. Lagipun hantaran ni bukannya satu syarat sah kahwin ke ape. Asalkan maharnya ada kira jalan la.

Abi: Maharnya apa?

Alia: Lia pikir sebentuk cincin pun ok la. Lagi mudah maharnya, lagi baik kan? Lagipun ni bukan urusan jual beli, ni perkahwinan.

Ummi: Tapi Ali, pelik la kalau orang tengok kita tak buat hantaran.

Ahmad: Ehem...jap. Rasanya kita boleh tolak ansur dalam bab ni.

Semua berpaling kepada Ahmad.

Ahmad: Apa kata kalau kita buat hantaran tu sebagai sepersalinan pakaian? Alia belikan untuk diri sendiri and then bagi kat Ali. Pastu Ali pun buat benda sama and then bagi kat Alia. Ye la, takut tak kena taste la kan. Tak perlu mahal-mahal, setakat mana mampu ja. Pastu balut la bagi fancy-fancy and jadikan la tu sebagai hantaran. Plus, tak membazir pun sebab beli sepersalinan pakaian yang akan digunakan everyday. Amacam?

Ali: Kalau camtu saya ok je.

Alia: Setuju.

Abi: Idea tu memang bagus, tapi nanti time kenduri tu akan ada orang datang and tanya brapa banyak hantaran yang dibuat. Tu soalan normal. Takkan la Abi nak bagitau yang kita buat hantaran pakaian saja?

Ahmad membisu. Dia begitu yakin ideanya itu akan menyelesaikan isu tersebut.

Ummi: Kami faham yang agama tu penting, tapi air muka kena jaga jugak.

Ali: With all due respect pak cik and mak cik, saya bukannya apa, cumanya saya rasa it's better for me to invest in my marriage than in my wedding. Kalau kita belanja sampai kering poket or sampai berhutang or sampai membazir, apakah tu satu permulaan yang berkat? Lebih baik saya guna duit tu untuk rumah tangga saya.

Ummi: Jangan la buat susah-susah Ali. Kan senang kalau kita buat ikut cara yang orang selalu buat?

Ali: Ye, memang senang. Tapi senang tak semestinya betul mak cik.

Abi: Awak nak kahwin ngan Alia ke tak ni?

Ahmad menghantar SMS kepada Alia...

Ahmad: Lia, camne ni?

Alia: Ntah, Lia dah buntu.

Suasana genting seketika. Ali memejam matanya seketika, mengawal nafasnya kerana apa yang bakal dia ucapkan mungkin penentu segala-galanya. Dengan lafaz Bismillah dalam hatinya...

Ali: Wallahi, hasrat saya yang menggunung tinggi sekarang ni ialah untuk berkahwin. Just imagining it gives me happiness, apatah lagi kalau saya experience it for real. Plus, saya yakin Alia ni la calon isteri yang saya cari selama ni. Tapi...

Semua menumpukan perhatian sepenuhnya kepada Ali.

Ali: Tapi kalau mengahwini Alia bermakna saya kena "ceraikan" Allah dan Rasulullah, then I'd rather sacrifice my pleasure for the pleasure of my Lord.

Ahmad: Ali, apa maksud ko?

Ali: Maksud aku, kalau kita nak teruskan jugak ikut apa yang orang cakap, aku rasa mungkin aku akan tarik diri. Sebab aku tak tergamak untuk gembira pada hari kenduri kahwin aku sedangkan Allah murka kat aku.

Abi pandang Ummi.

Abi: Ali...I don't think this is going to work out.

Ahmad dan Alia memandang Abi hampir serentak. Terkejut.

Cinta SMS (Ep. 6) | Cinta SMS (Ep. 8)

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Cinta SMS (Ep. 6)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 00:22:00 PDT

Abi: Ahmad, mana Ali?

Ahmad: Entah. Jap, Ahmad mesej dia.

Henset Ali berbunyi.

Ahmad: Dah sampai?

Ali: Aku kat luar umah ko dah. Cuak kot!

Ahmad keluar.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum!

Ali: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah.

Ahmad: La, apsal tak call aku?

Ali: Aku tengah layan fikiran la bro.

Ahmad: Ko fikir banyak sangat la. Jom masuk!

Ali berjalan perlahan-lahan masuk rumah.

Ali: Assalamualaikum pak cik.

Abi: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah. Sila la duduk.

Ummi: Alia, tolong amik air.

Ali duduk. Walaupun sofa empuk, dirinya tetap rasa kurang selesa. Abi tahu dia nervous dan dia sengaja tidak mahu memulakan perbualan. Dia hanya senyum dan tunggu.

Alia: Sila la minum.

Ali amik cawan di depannya dan minum, dengan harapan dapat mengurangkan kejanggalan situasi. Tak berkesan. Dia sedar bahawa dia harus berani.

Ali: Ehem...rasanya pak cik dah tahu kot kenapa saya datang ni kan?

Abi: Kenapa awak datang ye?

Ali: Err...camne nak cakap ek?

Ahmad menghantar SMS kepada Alia...

Ahmad: Abi ni saja buat orang gabra kan? Padahal dia tahu je kenapa Ali datang.

Alia: LOL! Lia pun gabra gak ni.

Ali: Sebenarnya...saya datang...nak menyampaikan hajat...ingin...kahwin...dengan......Alia

Abi: Kahwin?

Ali: Ye.

Ummi: Umur awak brapa tahun Ali?

Ali: Saya sekarang dah 21 tahun mak cik.

Ummi: Oh, blaja lagi la?

Ali: Ye.

Abi: Bila awak plan untuk kahwin?

Ali: Seberapa cepat yang boleh. Saya tak nak rush, tapi saya jugak tak nak tangguh. Salah satu agenda saya datang ni nak bincang pasal bila nak kahwin jugak la.

Perbualan sudah mendapat momentumnya. Ali semakin kurang nervous.

Abi: Dari segi kewangan, macam mana tu Ali?

Ali: Err...sama macam Ahmad, saya ada biasiswa.

Abi: Brapa awak dapat sebulan?

Ali: Alhamdulillah, dapat $1300 sebulan. Lebih dari cukup kalau pandai belanja.

Abi: Awak tahu kahwin ni bukan murah kan? Kenduri yang sederhana pun ada la dalam RM14,000. Tu tak termasuk pelamin, hantaran, upah mak andam, baju pengantin, dan lain-lain.

Ali: Hantaran? Pelamin?

Ali memandang Ahmad. Ahmad pun nampak keliru.

Ahmad: Abi, kita nak buat persandingan ke? Hantaran jugak?

Alia: Lagi satu, Lia tak tahu pulak Abi nak upah mak andam. Sejak bila Lia pakai mekap Abi? Gincu pun tak penah pakai. Setakat lip gloss ja.

Ummi: Well, hari tu kan hari special untuk Lia. Bukan selalu pun jadi raja sehari ni kan?

Ali: Err...pak cik, kalau kita tak buat persandingan boleh tak?

Abi: Kenapa?

Ali: Saya rasa kurang selesa bila bayangkan isteri saya berhias-hias pastu kena "display" kepada orang ramai. Mata-mata lelaki asing yang memandang tu rasa macam anak-anak panah menusuk hati saya.

Ummi: Ala, sehari je kan?

Ali: Saya faham. Hari tu hari special. Kami seakan-akan raja pada hari tu. Tapi, even raja pun harus patuh pada Raja yang sebenar iaitu Allah kan?

Abi: Kalau tak buat, nanti apa kata-kata jiran pulak?

Ahmad dan Alia kelihatan kurang selesa dengan perbualan ini.

Ali: Kita tak boleh nak puaskan hati semua orang pak cik. Saya bukan kata yang kita tak boleh nak ada adat langsung dalam perkahwinan ni. Apa yang saya nak katakan ni ialah kita tapis dulu adat-adat kita ni supaya tak langgar perintah Allah.

Ummi: Tapi ramai je yang buat.

Ali: Saya tak nak cakap apa-apapun bagi pihak mereka. Itu antara mereka dengan Allah. Dalam situasi kita ni pulak, ia antara kita dengan Allah.

Abi: Jadi tak nak bersanding la ni?

Ali: Seeloknya tak perlu la pak cik. Tapi, kalau nak dibuat jugak, kita boleh adakan sesi bersanding dengan kaum hawa dan saudara lelaki sahaja. Kaum adam yang asing tak boleh masuk. Dan kita tak benarkan sesiapa ambil gambar melainkan kamera kita sendiri. Takut-takut ada yang upload dalam Facebook ke, Flickr ke, dan entah apa lagi website yang diorang boleh upload gambar-gambar tu. Ha, kalu yang tu nak bersolek pun takpe.

Abi: Awak tak rasa ekstrim ke tu?

Ali mencuba sedaya upaya untuk mengekalkan senyuman di mukanya dan menjaga adabnya.

Ali: With all due respect, saya rasa yang ekstrimnya ialah Alia berhias berlebihan depan khalayak ramai dengan solekan yang berlebihan dan pakaian pengantin yang terlebih lawa. Kebanyakkan pakaian pengantin Muslimah tidak Muslimah pun, walaupun labelnya "Muslimah".

Alia: Lia setuju dengan Ali tu. Kalau setakat nak pakai sehari je, pastu simpan dalam almari and biar berdebu je Lia rasa macam membazir. Dah la bayar mahal. Kalau mahal tapi boleh dipakai everyday tu okay jugak.

Ummi: Ummi nak Lia nampak segak hari tu. Kenduri kahwin tu sekali je tau?

Dengan suara lembut, Alia menjawab...

Alia: Ummi, segak di mata siapa?

Suasana senyap seketika...

Cinta SMS (Ep. 5) | Cinta SMS (Ep. 7)

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