Middle of Syaaban

Last night was Malam Nisfu Syaaban. By tradition, and unique only in this part of the world i.e. the Malay Archipelago, that the night is observed with large gathering at mosques to recite the Surah Yaasin three times in between the Maghrib and Isya prayers. There have been many discussions especially in Malaysia whether such activity is a bidaah or a misguided innovation in the religion. No doubt this has been looked at by our religious authority here. My simple take is any activity that leads to help live up the atmosphere in the mosque or involves the recitation of any verses from the Holy Quran is encouraged and we should do. Only Allah knows the true significance of the night.

Later we went to a doa ceremony for a young relative who is soon going to Michigan University. Indeed our country has lot of talented 'gems', many are hidden and forever not found. This young lady went to local primary and district secondary schools, has proven that the difference is actually in the mind. No doubt if she was given the same level of opportunity and facilities she would also achieved the same. But she didn't received that. Which prove that it's all in the mind - the will power to succeed. Unless people are willing to change themselves, have the self motivation, one would not realise own potential. She excelled in her studies and is now going to a far off place that she would not have imagined before. All the best to her.