"sometimes the brightest lights can only be seen from the darkest of depths"

I've been reading Brother Nomad's blog, "Holding on to Allah's Rope" for a good part of the past year or so.  His stuff really is pretty profound and deep to say the least, and he's able to articulate so well what I believe are the very personal struggles that everyone goes through at some point or another in their lives.

Allhumdulilah, he's granted me permission to share his work, and specifically, there's one piece of his that really speaks to me. Some of these gem-worthy ideas:

"Firstly: sometimes the brightest lights can only be seen from the darkest of depths. We cannot appreciate what tawakkul means until we are (or see a point) far removed from it."

"Once we internalize the whole of our weakness, is when we can begin to find strength in reliance."

"Secondly: There is the rope of Allah, and then there is the chain of the shayateen (devils). A rope is generally made as a means of assistance, carrying things, and pulling them up. A chain is generally made as a means of restriction, punishment in limiting one's freedom and mobility. Interestingly, a rope can also choke whereas a chain can also give lift in times of need."

"Sometimes a chain is not evident until it is too late, and it has wrapped itself around its wielder tightly at the time of death. Thought to be a source of pride and dignity in the face of men, it would be just a cement block dragging one down to the deepest depths. Conversely, a rope can easily cause burns if it moves too fast, or become a noose should extremes be approached."

See what I mean?  He's a genius, mashAllah.

I'd encourage you to read the full post here.  Happy reading!