I could barely sleep the night before the first session for “Girls of Ilm”. The idea of meeting girls my own age from our community kept me awake with excitement. Next morning all the way to the venue, my thoughts were on how nervous I felt, at the same time I was looking forward to the event.
The lovely set up for Sip & Paint
When we arrived at Sister Nazha Nasmy’s house, she immediately put me at easy by greeting me with a cheerful Salam at the door. I followed her into the house and came face to face with many girls my own age. I sat down and made myself comfortable. When Sister Nazha began the session, I was instantly hooked. She explained to us the importance of the 99′ names of Allah. She kept us focused on the subject in a fun and entertaining manner. The way Sister Nazha presented the virtues of the names of Allah, made us ponder about it and we shared our opinions and knowledge. Gone were the shy girls steeling glances at each other, by now we spoke freely and had lots of fun. We couldn’t wait to get started on the canvases artfully presented on a long table big enough to accommodate all of us. Each of us produced a painting of one of the names of Allah in our own unique way. Thereafter, we learnt the significance of each name we had chosen to paint while snacking on the refreshments offered to us. The day came to end with a peaceful and calming state of mind.
With the organisers receiving positive responses we had the opportunity to gather once again at Liyana Aakyl’s house. The second session of Girls of Ilm began with sister Nazha talking to us about the importance of Zikr. She taught us the different types of Zikr and how the remembrance of Allah in our day to day life can benefit us. This time we were more easily speaking our opinions and questioning, to which sister Nazha responded and replied patiently. The presentation prepared by her was interactive and fun. The highlight of the evening apart from the delicious food prepared by the hosts as well as brought by parents was crafting prayer beads. Beading with light chatter and feasting all at the same was the most harmonious feeling in the world.
By Safaa Ashroff, Daughter of Sister Misfa.
Leave Your Comments