This is the end.
Or at least it may feel like it.
Yesterday we witnessed a historic day in American and world history. A day that marks the election of a man whose campaign was built upon racism, discrimination, xenophobia, sexism, misogyny, and hatred. A campaign that clearly touched the hearts and minds of a majority of Americans – rhetoric that apparently resonated with so many.
Right now, as Muslims in Canada and abroad, our community is experiencing deep emotions at the news of Donald Trump’s election and campaign success. Members of our community, alongside other communities that were targeted in his campaign, feel sadness, shock, fear, anxiety and so much more. It is absolutely expected and reasonable to feel such emotions and worry about what is to come. There Is a very real impact on our day to day lives, the lives of our children and loved ones, the futures of our families and communities. This is real.
And that, my brother and sisters, is a difficult reality to accept.
Alhamdullilah though, as Muslims, we have so much to turn to and be grateful for. Yes, this is an unfortunate and truly appalling outcome, but it is most definitely not the end of the world, nor is it a reason for us to lose hope.
Our hope is not in a leader or president, or some party. Our fear is not based on their rhetoric or threats. Our faith is not affected by their promises or platform. Allah (SWT) decides. He promises. He wills. He protects. He never ever abandons us.
So in this moment of fear, anxiety, worry, unknown, loss and sadness, let us turn to the One whose hand holds our soul. And let us reflect on this beautiful advice of the Prophet (SAW).
On the authority of Abu Abbas Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) who said:
One day I was behind the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) [riding on the same mount] and he said, “O young man, I shall teach you some words [of advice]: Be mindful of Allah and Allah will protect you. Be mindful of Allah and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, then ask Allah [alone]; and if you seek help, then seek help from Allah [alone]. And know that if the nation were to gather together to benefit you with anything, they would not benefit you except with what Allah had already prescribed for you. And if they were to gather together to harm you with anything, they would not harm you except with what Allah had already prescribed against you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried.”
So dear brothers and sisters, in this extremely difficult time, seek help from Allah (SWT) alone, find solace in your Iman – it will carry you through this. And remember, we have a whole community of fellow Muslims who are experiencing this struggle alongside us. We are not alone.
