The words below are only my thoughts. I express my feelings into words so we can all learn from each other, grow in beautiful ways and strengthen our faith. 

I am frustrated. I am sad. I am stressed. I am anxious. 

All I see and hear these days is, ‘Coronavirus’. It’s overwhelming. It’s mentally draining. The headlines, the deaths, the confirmed cases. It’s all too much. Yet, as Muslims, as a community, as basic human beings, we have the duty to do our part in preventing the spread of the disease and to protect each other. 

This outbreak is serious and real. It’s frustrating when some people in our community don’t take it seriously. As humans, sometimes we tend to believe that we are invincible, that nothing will ever happen to us, that this won’t affect us. But did we ever think that a pandemic would literally put a hold on our lives? Never. 

In moments like these, let’s not be selfish and think about the well being of everyone around us, especially our loved ones and the most vulnerable. It’s not the time to travel for leisure, or gather in crowded places. On top of that so many speculations about the outbreak are going around and misguiding people, which is only causing greater damage. For now, put aside these theories and follow government guidelines. It’s that simple. Life will get back to normal, God willing, and we’ll be able to do what we want and go where we want. Follow the required measures. If you are sick, stay at home. Maintain proper hygiene. Don’t go outside, unless you really have to. Practice social distancing. Stay informed, but don’t overwhelm yourself. We will get through this, inshaAllah. 

In times of uncertainty, it’s completely normal to feel all the emotions I mentioned above. But alongside those, 

I am hopeful. I am faithful. I am positive. I am praying. 

Here I speak to myself. 

My faith and hope in God is what keeps me grounded. I believe and I know that this too shall pass. I do have days where it all seems depressing, but I constantly remind myself that this is not the end. This is a struggle. A struggle that will pass with sabr, tawakul (trust in Allah) and of course applying practical measures I previously mentioned. 

I also take this opportunity to learn, grow and discover my own self. It’s a time of self-reflection, self-growth and self-love. But also a moment to appreciate the beauty of life and family. To appreciate the little things that tend to go unnoticed. Focus on those small things and you will find joy. 

This might feel like isolation, but I say that we can take control of our lives in our personal ways within our own space. Transform this time as your own, take control of it, grow with it. Take care of your mental health along the way, it’s important. Our daily routines are on hold, but not our lives. And so take this opportunity to increase your knowledge, explore your creative mind, read a book, write your thoughts out, learn a new skill. Also, don’t forget to communicate, to talk and listen. Speak and listen to your family members, but also check up on your friends by calling them or even FaceTiming. Keep in touch, be kind and thoughtful. Supporting each other, we will find the strength to overcome this struggle. 

I also want to mention that the closure of mosques may create feelings of discomfort, but I do want to remind everyone that this measure is necessary to prevent the spread of the disease. We need to take steps to preserve the community from any kind of harm. As Muslims, we can create that spiritual space in our homes with our families. In these moments of uncertainty, we can take the opportunity to strengthen our relationship with God and to increase our spiritual knowledge. In connecting with and understanding Allah, we realize that it is only He who is in control of all things, including this disease. And so let’s place our trust in Him, be patient and take the required precautions. 

We will overcome this, inshaAllah. 

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My heart goes out to all the health professional workers, to the ones infected by this disease, to the cashiers, to the cleaners, and to anyone else who is battling at the forefront for all of us. 

I also pray for anyone living in toxic and abusive households who can’t leave their house or don’t have anywhere else to go because of the current situation. May Allah make it easy on them.

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Side note: Check your sources when obtaining information. Only trust reliable sources like government websites, WHO (World Health Organization) resources and local health updates.