Year after year, we hear the chant: "New year, new me!" Yet, in the suspenseful countdown to midnight, as the world collectively utters "3, 2, 1," we confront the undeniable reality that change fails to reach us as the clock strikes 12:00 am on January 1st.

Here’s what you're in for ​​☕:

• New Beginnings: A guide to growth and meaningful habits. 

• Strength in Faith: A reminder from the Prophet (SAW).

• Recent Events: Organ theft, aggression near Al-Aqsa, and shifting alliances.

• Reflection: The ultimate Quran journal.

KEEPING UP

Embrace the New Year with Purpose ☪️ 🤲

During the celebration of making it to the new year, let us not forget the millions who didn't. It's a reminder of life's fragility and the importance of preparation.

How many of them were prepared for the unexpected? Are we ready for the uncertainties that lie ahead?

✨ Self Improvement ✨

As the world sets resolutions for the new year, let us, as Muslim women, remember that our journey of self-improvement is not confined to the pages of a calendar. Our goals are set daily, our commitment unwavering, and our source of strength lies in our connection with Allah.

If you recognize areas for personal growth, don't feel bad about yourself, for today is your opportunity for a fresh start. None of us are promised tomorrow, let alone the 1st of January.

Feeling off track? Redirect your focus with these meaningful pursuits:

1. Praying Salah on time 🤲: Strengthen your connection with Allah through punctuality in prayer. 

2. Reading 📚: Immerse yourself in the wisdom of the Quran and other beneficial books. 

3. Donating to charity 🤝: Extend your hand to those in need.

4. Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦: Nurture a good relationship with your parents, acknowledging the sanctity of family bonds and fostering respect. 

5. Journal 📓: Reflect on your journey, capturing the beauty of growth and self-discovery. 

6. Fasting 🌙: Did you make up your missed fasts? Don't procrastinate any longer!  

7. Taking care of your health 🏃‍♀️: Good health allows you to fulfill your responsibilities!

🚨 REMEMBER 🚨

Studies indicate that, on average, it takes approximately 66 days to solidify a habit, and this time frame can vary, ranging from 18 to 254 days. 

So, remain steadfast, and insha'Allah you will successfully cultivate these habits for a lifetime!

ISLAMIC REMINDER

Abu Huraira reported Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as saying:

The key takeaways from this hadith are:

🌟 Strong Faith: Emphasizes that a strong believer, both physically and in faith, is more beloved to Allah.

🌟 Prioritizing the Hereafter: Advises cherishing actions and choices that will benefit you in the Hereafter.

🌟 Dependency on Allah: Reminds believers to seek help from Allah, acknowledging their dependence on Him in all aspects of life.

🌟 Resilience in Challenges: Encourages believers not to lose heart in the face of difficulties, accepting that challenges are part of Allah's decree.

🌟 Avoiding Negative Thoughts: Warns against attributing events to hypothetical actions, emphasizing the importance of avoiding negative thoughts that may open the door for the devil's influence.

SNIPPETS

Since October 7th, more than 22,404 Palestinians have been killed by  Israel, with 9,000 of them being children and 6,450 women. The Palestinian death toll in 2023 marks the highest number since the 1948 Nakba.

Israel returned 80 stolen bodies back to Gaza with missing organs, and some in pieces. An examination of the bodies disturbingly revealed that there were visible changes made to them suggesting the alarming possibility of organ theft from the deceased.

Near the Al-Aqsa mosque, Israeli forces deployed "skunk water" and fired tear gas at worshippers. This marks the 12th consecutive Friday where Israeli occupation forces have escalated their military actions around the mosque.

The Biden administration bypasses congress on an emergency weapons sale to Israel. This is the second emergency determination is covering $147.5 million sale for equipment that Israel has already purchased to function. 

Philz Coffee, originally founded by Phil Jaber and his son, who are Palestinian, has undergone a change in ownership. The current ownership no longer supports Palestine and has taken a stance against employees wearing "free Palestine" pins, leading to some being sent home.

STAY ON TRACK

Quran Journal 📖✨

You know how we sometimes struggle to keep that consistent connection with the words of Allah in our daily lives? Well, I found this Quran Journal on Amazon that has been an absolute game-changer for me!

This journal isn't just a blank canvas. Here's a glimpse into the different categories inside : 

• Theme and Verse Number: Each page features the monthly theme and verse number, making it easy for you to locate and delve into the verses.

• Arabic: Sharpen your Arabic writing skills by copying down the verse, regardless of your proficiency level.

• Translation: Capture the meaning by writing down the translation that resonates most with you.

• Tafsir: Gain insights by exploring the background, context, and explanation of each verse.

• Application: Reflect on the verse's relevance to your life, connecting it to your experiences.

• Dua: Conclude your reflection with a heartfelt dua, putting what you learned into prayers.

Insha’Allah this journal can be your key to unlocking a deeper, more profound relationship with the Quran. ❤️ 

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