“You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” ~Winston Churchill

 

Awesome! I love this quote “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” ~Winston Churchill

Engaging in voluntary activity brings me great joy. Besides CML (Columbus Metropolitan Library) and Tuttle Park Community Center (that holds a special place in my heart), the mosque/ Noor Islamic Cultural Center (NICC) is another cherished location for me. Alhamdulillah, while I chill at the mosque, waiting for the kids to learn about Islamic study, reading the Quran, memorizing it, and learn Tafsir, I had a chance to be a teacher volunteer to teach Quran reading, memorization, and help out with English lessons for refugee moms (ESL Program) and their adorable school-age kids and teens. Oh, I'm gonna miss you guys!

I've had some experiences meeting and hanging out with Muslims from all over the world - Afghanistan, Palestine, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Somalia, Sudan, Algeria, Pakistan, India, and more. The mosque and my involvement in activities at the NICC have also opened doors to engage in several international endeavors and associations, such as the ICRA (International Cultural and Relief Association), My Project America, and the International Bazaar.

And… I got the chance to do research twice at this place, I'm so grateful for it.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to my Indonesian friends who introduced me to a plethora of people and diverse activities (with special gratitude to Mbak Lenni Bakari, Brother Arif and Mba Fera), as well as my other international acquaintances (Sister Zeenath, Sister Ayesha, Sister Huda, Sister Sofia, Brother Danish, and many more). Masya Allah... I have learned immeasurable lessons from these remarkable friends. Though we initially did not intend to attend the final day of the children's graduation ceremony (due to prior commitments), but because we still wanted to see the ceremony, Alhamdulillah we were able to go to the graduation ceremony and reunite with our amazing friends. All of this is gonna be such sweet memories for our family. Ohio is a place we will always hold dear in our hearts.

PS Mbak Lenni, Thanks for the certificate and the gift. Really appreciate it 😊