To Remind You

Dear Alia Nadhirah,

2nd Year is around the corner. In fact, it's closer than you think because you'll be heading back to college tomorrow and having all sorts of things to settle and attend to until Registration, a day before class begins.

2nd year would of course be tougher than 1st year. You're supposed to know things and NOT forget what you've learnt in 1st year. And sometimes when things don't seem to be entering your head, never never never give up and resort to memorizing word by word. Try to apply it, discuss it, match it to a real-life situation. This is just part of the greater journey in your life. Watch the 3 Idiots movie if you must to remind you.

Spend time wisely in studies so that you don't have to spend extra hours having to make up for the many things you didn't understand.When you get frustrated dealing with SCTLs, PBLs, OSCEs, OSPEs, exams etc, remember that each and every part of it is important in becoming a great doctor. As hard and puzzling as it may be, remember that it's the patient you are dealing with, not the disease. So don't go around just cramming everything in your head. Try to UNDERSTAND them. Read The Forgotten Art of Healing if you must to remind you.

When you're running here and there dealing with programs, projects and events, remember that you need to do it to balance with your studies. "There are many good people out there. But there are not enough people to contribute to the Ummah." Talk to Teacher Rasyidah if you must to remind you.

When you feel lazy and don't feel like doing anything, remember there's not enough TIME to be sitting around. There's still so much to accomplish! When you get tired and upset and wonder why you can't do whatever it is that you like, don't ever ever give up. Tiredness is temporary but Pahala is permanent. Talk to those who are active if you must to remind you.

Never ever neglect your loved ones. Sometimes you get so busy with studies and caught up in events. Never take for granted that "They will understand." Never have a friend say "I'm so touched that you remember me even though you're so busy." Talk to Ayah and Ummi if you must to remind you.

When personal emotions overwhelm you and you feel like your heart is torn to pieces, remember they are petty matters. Acknowledge it, put it aside and learn from it fast. Recall the painful but truthful conversation "takde masa nak layan" to remind you.

When you've done so many mistakes, and you feel like your heart is so black, remember that it is like glass and can be cleaned again. Remember back to Sheikh Tawfique's words about the heart of a Believer, where your heart quivered listening to the explanation. Recite Surah An-Nur about the Light upon Light to remind you.

When you lose track of what you want to be, remember back to the Mercy Mission presentation. About where our Ummah is standing today and what it has become. Remember that you want to build 4 characteristics: 1) Character and Vision 2) Knowledgable 3) Active and Proactive 4) Compassionate. Hold steadfast to the vision and if you are searching for a life partner, make sure that he is someone who is truly passionate and sincere about the vision of Mercy Mission because it is about reviving the Ummah. Visit www.mercymissionworld.org to remind you.

2nd Year starts in four days, Alia. Start it with all the energy you've got!:) So many aims to complete. If you're faced with problems or difficulties, remember that they are reminders that you're not doing something right. Don't be upset with the reminders you'll be getting. You need them to set your path straight. Turn to Allah all the time to remind you.

Love.