Anxiety

As the imam made his rounds around the mosque he noticed a young woman in the corner fidgeting nervously. She looked tired but also confused. She kept staring at her lap and he was pretty sure she was picking at her fingers. A sign of anxiety. He continued his walk, nodding and smiling at other people that were sitting or passing by him. Eventually he made his way to the girl.

“Are you alright my child?” He asks kindly.

“Oh…sorry…didn’t mean to bother you.” She said getting up.

“No, no, it’s alright. You are always welcome here.” He smiles.

“Well please don’t be insulted but I haven’t been to mosque in years…lately I’ve only gone to eid mubarak prayer with my parents. I’m not really sure what to do.” She admits.

“Dont be afraid. The mosque is a place to clear your mind and be at peace.” He says. “I am imam ahmad. ” He says holding out his hand.

“zara ariffin.” She says and shakes it. He feels warm and sturdy.

“May I sit with you Miss zara.” He asks.

“Oh yeah sure.” She nods giving him room.

“You look troubled my dear. Is something bothering you?”

“Just going through some things I guess.” She shrugs. “Just kind of feel like I’m going through the motions of things…like I’m just here so what?” She explains.

“I like to believe that everyone is here for a reason. However, I’m very much aware that not many people like hearing that.” He says truthfully.

“Yeah…sorry I’m one of them.” She admits.

“Dont be sorry. In these situations it is always best to be honest.” He encourages.

“My therapist recommended I go to mosque…since it’s something different to try. I’m not even islamic. She blushes slightly. The imam can’t help but chuckle.

“As I said you are still very welcome here ” He smiles. She lowers her head for a moment, picking at her fingers again.

“I feel like I’m helping everyone but no one helps me.” She whispers. “I just don’t know what to do right now.” The imam looks at her sadly. The world can be a cruel place for the young these days.

“I wish I could give you the right answer.” He says sincerely.

“Will…will praying help?”

“If you believe it will help you then yes.”

“But what if I don’t know how to pray?”

“There is no right or wrong way to pray. Just close your eyes and say what you want in your mind.” He explains. “Here…I will pray with you.” He gently takes her hand. She closes her eyes and squeezes his hand. He waits patiently with her. After a few minutes she opens her eyes and they’re a little watery. He smiles and he wipes her eyes.

“Thank you imam.” She says wiping her eyes.

“You’re very welcome. I would suggest that you make solah. It’s a way of empowering yourself and your prayer. ” He adds. She nods and heads over to the mosque. She carefully solah and pray for a few moments.

“Thank you imam.” She says and smile at him.

“You’re welcome.” He grunts slightly in surprise. “ if you ever need to talk I’m usually here until six most days.” He adds.

“Ok…thanks…I guess I’ll see you later.” She nods before she leaves. The imam would be happy to listen if she returned.

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