Mindful Minutes

Mindful Minutes

Zoha Qureshi, OK

As human beings, we often struggle with how others perceive us. We may worry about whether people like us, whether they think we are kind, attractive, or “cool.” When others say something hurtful or unkind, many of us respond with anger or sadness. In moments of sadness, we may find ourselves dwelling on the words that were said, becoming preoccupied and overanalyzing the situation and questioning why those words were spoken.

In contrast, when we react with anger, we may retaliate by insulting the person who hurt us. We may harbor resentment, even though our deen teaches us that those who remain silent in the face of insults are defended by the angels.

Some individuals may not resonate with this experience, perhaps they feel a moment of sadness but are quickly able to move on. If that’s the case, Alhamdulillah, that is a wonderful trait to have. However, if you find yourself struggling with these reactions, it’s important to reflect on why that is. Why are we so concerned with the perceptions and opinions of others? 

As Muslims, our primary concern should be how Allah (SWT) sees us. If we are truly focused on seeking His approval, the opinions of others become secondary. There is a Brazilian saying, “Even birds talk,” meaning that everyone will have something to say. Yet, the only opinion that truly matters is that of Allah (SWT).

May Allah (SWT) guide us all to be people who strive to please Him, and who are concerned only with His opinion. Ameen.

As human beings, we often struggle with how others perceive us. We may worry about whether people like us, whether they think we are kind, attractive, or “cool.” When others say something hurtful or unkind, many of us respond with anger or sadness. In moments of sadness, we may find ourselves dwelling on the words that were said, becoming preoccupied and overanalyzing the situation and questioning why those words were spoken.

In contrast, when we react with anger, we may retaliate by insulting the person who hurt us. We may harbor resentment, even though our deen teaches us that those who remain silent in the face of insults are defended by the angels.

Some individuals may not resonate with this experience, perhaps they feel a moment of sadness but are quickly able to move on. If that’s the case, Alhamdulillah, that is a wonderful trait to have. However, if you find yourself struggling with these reactions, it’s important to reflect on why that is. Why are we so concerned with the perceptions and opinions of others? 

As Muslims, our primary concern should be how Allah (SWT) sees us. If we are truly focused on seeking His approval, the opinions of others become secondary. There is a Brazilian saying, “Even birds talk,” meaning that everyone will have something to say. Yet, the only opinion that truly matters is that of Allah (SWT).

May Allah (SWT) guide us all to be people who strive to please Him, and who are concerned only with His opinion. Ameen.