A massive movement of humanity is taking place this week. Not migrants seeking refuge from oppression, but two million Muslims seeking spiritual refuge at the House of God. . . .
Read moreA Random Act of Kindness
“Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness,” my son Saqib asked.. . . It was August 8, 1986. Khalid and I got stuck in Mecca. Now, Muslims never say that. To be in the holy city of Mecca is a privilege. It’s almost blasphemous to even consider oneself as being stuck. But bear with me as I set the stage.
Read moreHAJJ DAY 4: Do You Believe in Miracles
Dear son,
12:00 Noon
When I didn’t hear from you until noon today, I wondered if I should start worrying. It is 7 pm in Mecca, and by now you should have returned from the Jamaraat, after hurling stones at the devil—or rather, the pillars signifying the devil. It’s a 105 F in Mecca today and an hour’s walk to the site, and then back. I am sure you kept water, salt tablets, an umbrella for shade, and had good walking shoes. Accidents happen at that site, and I am praying that you made it back safely, with the grace of God.
2:00 p.m.
Thank you my dear for your text message.