I haven’t been sure whether I would mark out certain dates. Upon reflection however, I recognize that it’s important for me to appreciate new beginnings and all amazing and unexpected things which they have already brought with them.

Today is the first of four important dates spanning now to September 13th. Each of these days is a critical marker noting the end of a Ghost Year, beginning entirely anew a full cycle. Whomever lives inside of my heart has completed some extraordinary saging of their residence, alhamduliLah.

You know that I don’t believe in coincidences, and so it was not too much of a surprise when the following landed on my instagram feed courtesy of Maryam Hasnaa –

You have come full circle on
a cycle […]
giving you that chance
to clear it once
and for all.
To come to completion
and begin a new cycle.

Perfect, innit?

On these four days, and rather than focusing on what was, I’ll instead provide you with the a reference point, and then work to increase the opposite of what I was living on these same days in 2018. I recognized then (though ignored) how important these things are in my life, both in terms of what I bring to the table, what I expect of my partner, and the environment in which I wish to live in this dunya.

Ultimately, my intention is so that future leanings and heart placements land in the new spaces, increased.

Last year’s reference point on this day was unabashed narcissism.

Today then, the focus is to be: selflessness, and generosity.

Which are why I spent a part of my day with Cleo, and the other part with Mariam, two women who carry both of these qualities in spades. Odd thing is that I originally had a date with Mariam for tomorrow, but she shifted before I requested we do so. (I fully believe that the Universe conspires with us when our intentions are set with a clarity and honesty of vision.)

It’s also why, though I am a regular donour on any given day, I chose to donate to the Seniors’ Halal Meals-on-Wheels arm of Muslim Welfare Canada.

I have much for which I am grateful, but on these four days in particular, more so than any other time in my life prior, and inshAllah ever.

Today, I am grateful for:
1. The two grown men playing pirates in the park, with swords, bandanas, and patches. Thank you for letting me watch.
2. The violinist at 263 Flora. Your playing is exquisite, and walked me down your block. Thank you for letting me listen.
3. August and Sept of 2018. Thank you for purifying my world.

Ottawa | Day 258 | August 15, 2019

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