The evolution of friendships is an interesting thing. I remember hearing once that we can grow out of friendships; I imagine we can grow into friendships as well. Working to establish the Sanad Trust Foundation has been challenging, to say the least, and it remains hard. So, the support of wife, children, family and friends is meaningful and uplifting. I wanted to give a shout out to a couple of friends who have been on my mind recently. Actually, the shout out is to types of friends, because I hope many of us have them?
A shout out to the childhood friend who’s house I used to sleepover at and vice versa. Who I use to get in trouble with, laugh with, share my feelings with…and then lost touch with. But somehow, in spite of the distance and lost time, the love remained and remains. When I share my work with Sanad Trust with him he shows admiration. When I needed something for students, he not only sends the gift but a short and to-the-point note, “Salam Ree, I am glad I could help your school. I support your dream, my brother! Much Love.” It’s a note I treasure and keep in my office, in the same the frame I have my CU diploma. I do so to remind me of a voice in myself that keeps me grounded in our work at Sanad, focused, and undistracted. A voice that reminds me we are all trying to go back to that place of innocence, where we once were.
A shout out to the friend who swings by Sanad and brings lunch. It lets me know I still exist. Sure I have may have tabled many professional opportunities to grind it out for my children and establish Sanad, but I can still feel cool having lunch with friends in my “office”. Plus, getting hooked up with lunch helps my budget and the good conversation is never taken for granted by me. It may just be lunch, but it still reminds me I am relevant — that’s a human need for everyone.
Shout out to the friend that I grew up with who I never got deep with spiritually, but now is an inspiration. We never talked deen growing up, but now you’re teaching me when we speak. When you privately share your personal struggles, anxiety, and needs and ask for support and dua from me, it means so many things. It forces me to be better. It humbles me. Makes me grateful. You give me an opportunity to share good I’ve heard from my teachers and learned from my late father (Allah have mercy on them both). It reminds me that a friend should trust another friend to be able to share what’s in their heart. Not many people are able to do that for each other. I am touched that we still can.
Shout out to the childhood friend who I see in random places, but never have random conversations with. It’s like our discussions resume where they last stopped. That’s special. Not many people are able to have these types of connected conversations any more. When I opened the envelope you sent in the early days of Sanad Trust with your donation and a note that said keep this between us, it confirmed who you are.
Shout out to the friend who stands by my side in face of the monumental task of getting Sanad Trust firmly established for posterity. We can look at each other and start tearing up about the project, not because we are scared, but because of the opportunity of immeasurable good Allah has given us and our family to be a part of this work. I feel you. No words needed. We will get it done insha’Allah.
Shout to the friend who can’t give much, but quietly, privately and sincerely prays for your wellbeing, strength, and success so much that you feel their dua when you’re with them. They don’t have to say a word. This is more valuable than you know. We need more of this private love. It helps me, it helps my work at Sanad, but more than anything it just helps the world. Keep it up. Lord knows I need it, Sanad Trust needs it, and the world for sure needs it. May Allah accept.
Shout out to the brother who’s a first-friend, a Haroon-Musa type of friend, unbreakable. When the world shakes they keep you steady. When challenges spin, they remain the same. When everything and everyone runs away, you know they will still be standing where you last saw them. No surprises; they’re not going anywhere.
Finally, shout to friends who bring that negative energy. I know there is barakah in you too. Sometimes it just takes a minute for me to get it, but when Allah lifts veils I can see it’s all good. You do you, I will do me. Masha’Allah.
If you’re a friend showing light and love to others, I appreciate you. Be good, do good, shine bright, life is short, walk straight, give love, be quiet, hold a hand, move forward, and…be a friend.
– rehan
PS: Shout out to 1984 hip-hop.
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