Aiman Azlan

Manis (Ep. 4)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sun, 20 May 2012 22:58:00 PDT

26 Disember 2016

Ahmad pulang ke rumahnya.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum!

Anis: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullah.

Ahmad: Anis dah makan?

Anis: Dah. Si Maisarah pun dah kenyang. Terus tido. Ali apa khabar?

Ahmad berjalan lalu duduk di atas sofa. Anis menuruti dan duduk di sebelah suaminya.

Ahmad: Dia sehat, Alhamdulillah. Tapi Abang tengok dia letih skit la. Mungkin sebab dia kena jaga si anak most of the time, since Alia masih lagi sakit. Tapi selsema Alia dah kurang so Insha Allah tak lama lagi baik la tu.

Anis: Alhamdulillah.

Ahmad: Sorry la Abang balik lambat skit. Tak sangka akan lepak lama ngan Ali.

Anis: Takpe. Rancak bersembang ek?

Ahmad: Yup. Kitorang cakap pasal kenangan-kenangan lama time skolah dulu. Pasal first time Abang nampak Anis.

Anis: Oh, time kita jadi classmate ke?

Ahmad: Bukan-bukan. Tu time Form 5, tahun 2007. Time tu kita first berkenalan. Yang Abang cakap ni time kita Form 4. Abang nampak Anis time kelas Tajweed Ustazah Maryam. Ingat tak?

Anis: Eh, Abang ada dalam kelas tu?

Ahmad: Haa...tak ingat la tu. Yes, Abang ngan Ali ada time tu. Abang nampak Anis tapi kita tak bercakap pun. Abang ingat muka je.

Anis: Hoho...stalker!

Anis cubit lengan suaminya dan dia tidak mahu melepaskan cubitannya.

Ahmad: Adeh, adeh, adeh...

Anis: Ha, nyanyi lagu Negaraku! Cepat, cepat!

17 Januari 2007

Negaraku, tanah tumpahnya darahku,
Rakyat hidup, bersatu dan maju,
Rahmat Bahagia, Tuhan kurniakan,
Raja kita, selamat bertakhta.
Rahmat Bahagia, Tuhan kurniakan,
Raja kita, selamat bertakhta.

Selepas perhimpunan tamat, semua pelajar kembali ke kelas masing-masing. Ahmad melangkah masuk ke kelasnya: kelas 5 Hassan.

Ahmad: Pergh, habis basah baju aku bhai.

Ahmad buka blazernya dan sangkut blazer tersebut di atas kerusinya.

Nafizi: Ha, sape suruh ko jadik pengawas. Padan muka!

Ahmad: Peluang keemasan beb. Kena la amik. Tapi ye la, you have to pay a price. Seksa jugak pakai blazer ni time perhimpunan. Dah la mahal.

Nafizi: Kesian benor kat korang ni. Malaysia panas kot. Time mana la korang selesa pakai blazer tu.

Ahmad: Sekolah dah tetapkan macam tu. Nak wat camna kan.

Di luar kelas, seorang lelaki sedang melambai-lambai.

Nafizi: Eh Ahmad, tu sape tu? Aku rasa dia tengah lambai kat ko la.

Ahmad: Oh, tu Husaini. Kawan aku.

Ahmad berjalan untuk berjumpa dengan Husaini.

Ahmad: Assalamualaikum!

Husaini: Waalaikumussalam. Bila cikgu ko masuk?

Ahmad: Entah. Aku rasa suma cikgu ada mesyuarat kot. Selalunya cikgu dah masuk dah time ni. Ada apa bro?

Husaini: Emm...ko kenal Anis kan?

Ahmad: Anis mane?

Husaini: Bongok! Anis kelas ko la. Tu ha!

Husaini memuncungkan bibirnya ke arah Anis.

Ahmad: Oh, dia. Tak la kenal sangat. Budak tu diam-diam je aku tengok. Tak penah sembang pun ngan dia.

Husaini: Boleh tolong aku tak?

Ahmad: Apa dia?

Husaini: Tolong bagi kertas ni kat dia.

Ahmad: Apa ni?

Husaini: Takde pape. Bagi je la kat dia.

Ahmad: Asal ko tak bagi je kat dia?

Husaini: Ala, jangan banyak tanya la. Bagi je!

Ahmad: OK la, OK la. Ish!

Ahmad berjalan ke arah Anis. Meja Anis terletak di hadapan kelas, di sebelah kiri. Kelihatan dia sedang bersembang dengan rakan yang duduk disebelahnya.

Ahmad: Anis.

Anis menoleh ke arah Ahmad.

Ahmad: Err...kawan aku suruh aku bagi kertas ni kat ko.

Anis: Ada apa dalam ni?

Ahmad: Entah. Aku tak bukak pun.

Ahmad beredar. Anis membuka lipatan kertas tersebut dan membaca nota yang ditulis di atasnya. Mukanya berkerut seketika, kemudian dia senyum.

Loceng berbunyi. Waktu rehat.

Husaini: Ko dah bagi kertas tu belum?

Ahmad: Dah. Apa kebenda ko tulis atas kertas tu?

Husaini: Aku interested nak jadi kawan dia. And, aku dapat tau yang ko sekelas ngan dia. So, aku tulis atas kertas tu yang aku nak jadi kawan dia and mintak ko tolong sampaikan.

Ahmad: Laaa, tu je ke.

Husaini: Dia cakap apa?

Ahmad: Don't know. Ko suruh aku bagi kertas je kan?

Husaini: Ciput tul!

Ahmad: Kalu ko nak tau apa jawapan dia, tanya la sendiri. Kehkehkeh...

Episod 3 | Episod 5

Waiting

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 05 May 2012 01:46:00 PDT

So powerful is this memory,
Keeping you so close to me,
My heart flees to you in a hurry,
Struggling I am to keep it steady.

She's not mine! She's not mine!
What is she doing in my mind?
I shall not cross that Divine line,
I'll stand waiting, tortured by time.

O Allah, my heart is aching!
Pounding on the bars it's kept in,
The leash is nothing but a string,
Hands are bloody but still holding.

You know how much I want to let go,
Unleash this flesh to the one it misses so,
But this heart of mine I worship not, no!
I bow to the One who turns it - my Lord!

Manis (Ep. 3)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:12:00 PDT

26 Disember 2016

Ahmad dan Ali sedang makan tengah hari bersama-sama.

Ali: Hahaha, aku marah betul ngan ko hari tu. Pedas je kena batang hidung.

Ahmad: Sorry sorry. Mungkin aku patut lapik skit. Tapi, kadang-kadang kena gak bagi straight to the face betul tak? Tapi, lawak la bila ko merajuk.

Ali: Aku merajuk kejap je. Actually, apa yang ko cakap tu bukan benda baru pun. Aku tahu, cuma buat-buat tak tahu. So, in a way, aku macam marah kat diri sendiri la.

Ahmad: Oh really? Tak penah plak ko bagitau aku pasal ni. Sebab tu ke ko putus ngan girlfriend ko?

Ali: Lebih kurang la. Tapi amik masa sebulan kot nak break. Bukan senang-senang je nak lepas orang yang kita sayang ye tak?

Ahmad: Betul tu. Susah. Sangat susah.

5 April 2006

Waktu rehat sudah tamat. Ahmad dan Ali kembali ke kelas mereka.

Ahmad: MATI AKU! Keja umah tak siap lagi ni! Bro, pinjam ko punya.

Ali: Pergh, lepas ko "choke slam" aku tadi, ada hati nak pinjam homework aku?

Ahmad: Ampun Tuanku! Bro, emergency ni. Tolong ar!

Ali: Sori. Naik. Lori.

Ahmad: Alaaaaa!!!

Ali: Kelas Tajwid start lepas skolah. Ko ada masa lagi. Ha, baik ko start skang.

Ahmad: Hampeh tul la. Yo, aku bagi ko pinjam kad Pokemon aku nak?

Ali: Rasuah. Itu. Haram.

Ahmad: Alaaaaa!!!

Selepas sekolah tamat pada hari itu, Ahmad dan Ali bergerak ke Kelas Tajwid. Kelas ini merupakan kelas tambahan yang diadakan oleh Panitia Pendidikan Islam. Ahmad dan Ali duduk bersebelahan. Ahmad sedang sibuk menulis.

Ali: Dah siap ke belum?

Ahmad: Sikit lagi, sikit lagi, sikit lagi, sikit lagi.

Ali: Habis la ko. Tu la, sape suruh tak buat keje umah.

Ahmad: A'uzubillah...

Ali: Ha?

Ahmad: Aku sedang meminta perlindungan Allah daripada bisikan Syaitan.

Ali: Oit! Ko cakap aku ni cam setan la ek?!

Ahmad: Sshhhhhh!!! Senyap ar. Aku gurau je la.

Ustazah masuk kelas.

Ahmad: Sikit lagi, sikit lagi, sikit lagi...yes, siap!

Ali: Ceit!

Ustazah: Assalamualaikum.

Semua: Waalaikumussalam warahmatullahi wabarakatuh, Ustazah!

26 Disember 2016

Ali: Siap jugak keje umah ko ek. Ingatkan nak torture la ko skit sebab tembak aku hari tu.

Ahmad: Aku cincai je. Asalkan siap.

Ali: Jadi selama ni ko dok ingat lagi la hari tu ek? Hari ko menjadi penyebab aku break ngan girlfriend aku.

Ahmad: Yes. And no.

Ali: Ha?

Ahmad: Ko tak perasan?

Ali: Perasan apa?

5 April 2006

Ustazah: Ingat ye, kedatangan hari ni worth 2% markah final Pendidikan Islam awak.

Ali: Ustazah, 2% je?

Ustazah: Nampak je skit, tapi 2% tu boleh jadi penentu A atau B. Sape yang tak datang hari ni, rugi la ye.

Ali membisik kepada Ahmad sesuatu.

Ali: Bro, 2% je la. Buat penat je ko buat keje umah tu.

Ahmad: Bro, aku datang sebab ilmu. Ko bajet bacaan Quran ko tu gempak ke?

Ali: Dah dah la tu tembak aku.

Ahmad senyum.

Ustazah: Ustazah akan call nama awak untuk ambil kedatangan ye...Anis!

Anis: Ade!

Episod 2 | Episod 4

Manis (Ep. 2)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 06:25:00 PDT

26 Disember 2016

Ahmad dan Ali sedang makan tengah hari bersama-sama.

Ahmad: Alia sihat?

Ali: Alhamdulillah. Selsema dia dah kurang. Kesian kat anak dia. Rindu mak.

Ahmad: Nak wat camna. Nanti berjangkit kang.

Ali: Eh jap, hari ni Maisarah genap 2 tahun kan?

Ahmad: Yup. Cepat giler membesar.

Ahmad senyum.

Ali: Yang ko tersengih-sengih ni pehal?

Ahmad: Agak lawak la bila dengar kita cakap pasal anak masing-masing. Pejam celik pejam celik, dah berkeluarga dah. Aku masih ingat lagi time kita kat skolah dulu.

Ali: Hahaha...good times kan?

Senyap seketika. Masing-masing melayan kenangan di bangku sekolah.

Ahmad: [Bisik] 5 April 2006.

Ali: Ha?

5 April 2006

Loceng berbunyi.

Ali: Oi ustaz, tunggu aku!

Ahmad: Cepat la weih, nanti kang line kantin panjang plak. Aku lapar ni!

Ali: Apa spesel ari ni?

Ahmad: Cam biasa ja. Aku nak makan cepat-cepat pastu masuk kelas. Keja umah kelas Tajwid tak siap lagi. Mati aku!

Ali: Nak pinjam aku punya?

Ahmad: Bleh gak. Thanks bro.

Mereka makan di meja yang sama. Duduk bersebelahan.

Ahmad: Oh ye, aku dengar citer dah "maju" skang.

Ali: Maju?

Ahmad: Ye la, aku usha Friendster ko semalam. Tetiba je status bertukar.

Ali: Ahaks, rajin ko meng-usha aku ek.

Ahmad: Aku tengah tukar layout profile aku time tu. Yang lama punya dah boring. Pastu aku nampak gambar profile ko. Amboi, siap bercantum pipi lagi. Aku pikir maybe tu akak ko, tapi ko mane ade akak. Ahaks! Apa cer bro?

Ali: Hehe...aku dah berpunya dah skang.

Ahmad: Fewwit! So, bila aku bleh merasa nasi minyak bro?

Ali: Nasi minyak?

Ahmad: Ye la, nasi minyak. Sambil-sambil dengar alunan kompang gitu.

Ali: Oh...hehe, belum sampai seru lagi la bro. Awal lagi. Still nak blaja. Dah la duit takde. Lagipun, belum sedia lagi nak amik tanggungjawab tu.

Ahmad: Aik, kalu tak silap aku, tanggungjawab yang ko amik skang ni lagi la berat.

Ali: Heh? Mana ada.

Ahmad: Ye la, ko kan kena "tanggung" dosa and "jawab" ngan Allah nanti.

Ali: ...

Loceng berbunyi.

Ahmad: Alamak!

Prolog | Episod 3

Manis (Prolog)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:48:00 PDT

Kepahitan yang berselimut,
Akhirnya terserlah hakikat,
Manis gula menarik semut,
Manis Iman menarik taubat.

Episod 1 | Episod 2

The Crying Tree

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:51:00 PDT

I wish I could be,
Like the crying tree,
The love that I envy,
Towards Habibi.

My heart is empty,
Emptier than the tree,
Who cried like a baby,
Longing for his company.

The tree cried when he,
Was still in its vicinity,
Not a teardrop do I see,
When he is far from me.

I want to be like the tree,
I want to feel his company,
Though not physically,
But he is present in me.

----------

Narrated Jabir bin 'Abdullah: The Prophet used to stand by a tree or a date-palm on Friday. Then an Ansari woman or man said. "O Allah's Apostle! Shall we make a pulpit for you?" He replied, "If you wish." So they made a pulpit for him and when it was Friday, he proceeded towards the pulpit (for delivering the sermon). The date-palm cried like a child! The Prophet descended (the pulpit) and embraced it while it continued moaning like a child being quietened. The Prophet said, "It was crying for (missing) what it used to hear of religious knowledge given near to it."

[Sahih Bukhari, Volume 4, Book 56, Number 784]

The Two Boxes of Pills

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 20:24:00 PDT

Bismillah.

This happened some time ago. Maybe a few months back.

One day in my apartment building, I was in the elevator with my friend and we had a casual chit chat. He asked me how I was doing and I said I was a bit sick. I had a mild headache and fever. Nothing serious though, Alhamdulillah. I arrived on my floor, said salam to him, and went to my apartment.

I thought that was it.

But not too long after that, he came to my apartment and gave me two boxes of Advil and Tylenol for my ailment (I only needed one to be honest). I was surprised and said thank you to him. He left. Maybe he took the pills from one of my friends from another apartment.

Advil and Tylenol

I thought that was it.

But soon after, I realized that the two boxes were brand new! I realized that he actually went to the pharmacy to buy me the pills. I couldn't believe it! He was quiet about it too. I had no idea. To this day he doesn't say anything about it.

Subhanallah! Now that is the kind of friend you want to keep close.

May Allah increase him. Ameen!

Manis (Ep. 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 18:30:00 PST

26 Disember 2016

Azan Subuh berkumandang. Ahmad membuka matanya. Dia melihat Anis masih lagi tidur, sambil memeluk anak kecil mereka; Maisarah. Ahmad memandang mereka berdua seketika, mengira setiap tarikan dan hembusan nafas. Dia senyum.

Ahmad: Anis. Anis. Bangun.

Anis: Pukul brapa skarang?

Ahmad: Subuh dah masuk. Jom.

Anis: OK.

Ahmad: Careful. Takut Maisarah terjaga.

Mereka bersiap sedia lalu solat Subuh bersama-sama. Selepas solat, mereka menghadap satu sama lain. Masih lagi di atas sejadah. Ahmad mengalih pandangannya kepada Maisarah yang masih lagi nyenyak tidur di atas katil.

Ahmad: Anis, tengok anak kita tu.

Anis: Dah 2 tahun dah dia, Bang. Perut Anis ni masih lagi dapat rasa kehadiran dia. Ingat lagi first time dia sepak-sepak dalam perut Anis?

Ahmad: Of course la Abang ingat. Takkan lupa sampai bila-bila. Allah, syok betul la time tu!

Anis: Time flies kan?

Ahmad menyandarkan badannya ke dinding, menghadap Anis. Di belakang Anis, Maisarah sedang nyenyak tidur di atas katil.

Ahmad: Yeah. Pejam celik pejam celik, tengok-tengok dia dah besar.

Ahmad menghembuskan nafas berat di dada.

Anis: Abang, is everything okay?

Ahmad: Huh? Oh, it's nothing. Abang tengah fikir something.

Anis: Apa dia?

Ahmad: Tak penting sangat.

Anis: Abang, dah 3 tahun dah Anis dok ngan Abang. Anis takda la expert, tapi Anis dah boleh baca muka Abang. Kalau bendanya tak penting, Abang takkan risau sampai macam tu skali.

Ahmad tersenyum.

Ahmad: Obvious sangat ek?

Anis: To me, yes.

Ahmad: Alahai, senang benor nak terkantoi ngan awak ni ye?

Anis: Come on la. I am your other half. The better half.

Ahmad: Hekeleh...

Anis tergelak kecil. Ahmad tersenyum mendengar gelak tawanya. Comel.

Ahmad: OK la. Abang bagitau. Meh sini, dok tepi Abang.

Anis duduk di tepi suaminya. Sama-sama bersandar di dinding.

Ahmad: Sejak kebelakangan ni, Abang dok fikir sesuatu. Sesuatu yang kurang menyenangkan hati.

Anis: Apa dia?

Ahmad: Akan datang harinya bila Maisarah akan tanya, macam mana kita boleh bertemu dan macam mana kita boleh bersatu.

Anis: ...

Anis meletakkan kepalanya di atas bahu Ahmad. Mereka berdua memandang Maisarah di hadapan mereka, yang masih lagi tidur. Kedengaran bunyi detikan jam di dinding.

Prolog

An Unexpected Gift

noreply@blogger.com (Aiman Azlan) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:27:00 PST

Bismillah.

After I got my test back in my Biology class, I wanted to see the professor to ask him about one of the questions in the test. I got 6 out of 15 marks on that question and I was sure that I could get more marks based on the answer scheme that we discussed in that class earlier.

The line up was long. There were about 10 students in front of me who wanted to see him too. So I waited in line patiently.

Right in front of me was a girl and when her turn came up she asked him something. I didn't hear what the question was but I listened to the answer given by the professor. He was talking about how to study for the course so I figured that was the question. And he said something remarkable:

I've met students who could memorize all the words on a page but don't have a clue what those words mean. It's like memorizing a poem without understanding what the poet is trying to say. When you study, use the approach of wanting to understand the materials. That is the only study tip I can give you. (Prof. Steven Short)

It's a simple tip really but he worded it so beautifully that I can't help but imprinting those words in my memory.

When it was my turn, I told him about the question that I should get more marks on.

Me: Excuse me sir, I've been looking at this question and I compared my answer to your answer scheme. I got 6 out of 15. I can't figure out where I lost so many marks.

Prof: Oh! This question is worth 6 marks. You got full marks on that one. You're actually looking at the total mark for the whole section which is 15 marks.

The mix-up

LOLsies!!!

Okay, that was a bit embarrassing but we had a laugh, him and I. I didn't get extra marks but I did get something else.

This...

I've met students who could memorize all the words on a page but don't have a clue what those words mean. It's like memorizing a poem without understanding what the poet is trying to say. When you study, use the approach of wanting to understand the materials. That is the only study tip I can give you. (Prof. Steven Short)

Thank you, professor!

"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 get from several people.

Bismillah.

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.

Having said that, I wouldn't call myself an effective student. I didn'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 university 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 stressed 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 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.

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

Lovely SMS (Ep. 10)

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
Read the original Malay version here.

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.

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

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

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.

Credit to xbooshbabyx

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)

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

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: ...

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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."