Salaam Alaykum Warahmatullah!
I’ve been procrastinating writing this edition because I wanted a big comeback from the long break. I wanted this to be perfect because I know how much it means to a lot of people and how much it means to me too. But it’s time to take my own advice - Perfection is overrated, showing up is enough.
I had to take a break from writing this newsletter because I wasn’t in the right headspace. Exams stress coupled with the student version of Sapa and a sprinkle of boy problems here and there. My tired was tired. So I took a break. During this break, I was able to process a lot of weird emotions that had been affecting my work, spiritual life and my relationship with people. It was a big wave but I’m glad I kept swimming even when it seemed like I was drowning.
So here I am, trying to aspire to perspire. Your soul is wary, give it some blue love. Take a break if you need to. Cry if takes away the pain. I screamed at some point during the break. I went down to a dam and let it all out. You could try that too. I also tried yoga. It helped created the much-needed balance. Ask for help if you can’t do it alone. Do not, I repeat, do not isolate yourself. Go out with friends even if you don’t feel like it. Just show up and smile for the gram.
Your soul knows what it needs to get its fire back. Listen and take action even if you don’t feel like it.
PS: I listen to Surah Adh-dhariyat by Omar Hisham when I feel overwhelmed. You can try it out.
With love always,
Umaynah
Thank you for this piece, it hit well