BradfordToday welcomes letters to the editor at [email protected] or via the website. Please include your full name, daytime phone number and address (for verification of authorship, not publication).
As we embrace the arrival of the new year, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association would like to extend warm wishes for peace, prosperity, and harmony to all members of our community.
We belong to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, a dynamic, fast-growing international revival movement within Islam. Founded in 1889 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, whom we believe to be the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, our community is devoted to promoting peaceful coexistence, serving humanity, and reviving the true teachings of Islam.
Islam, a faith that emphasizes self-reflection and spiritual growth, provides valuable guidance on starting a new year. The Qur’an reminds us that every moment offers an opportunity for repentance and self-improvement: “And turn to Allah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed.” (Holy Qur’an, 24:32).
The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), whose life is a perfect example of moral excellence, began every year with prayers for peace, blessings, and forgiveness. He sought closeness to Allah through supplication and renewed his commitment to the service of humanity. His humility and gratitude toward the Almighty were reflected in his words and actions throughout the year.
As we embark on this journey of a new year, let us pledge to embody the values taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammad. (Peace and blessings be upon him.) Let us strive to:
- Be more kind and compassionate: Extend a helping hand to those in need, be it through charity, comforting words, or acts of service.
- Practise politeness and respect: Uphold the dignity of every individual, fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding in our interactions.
- Demonstrate generosity: Give freely of our time, wealth, and resources to improve the lives of others and bring about positive change.
- Be more forgiving: Embrace forgiveness, as it heals hearts and strengthens relationships.
The new year is not just a change in the calendar; it is an opportunity to refresh our intentions, reset our goals, and realign our actions with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can contribute to creating a society grounded in peace, justice, and compassion.
May this year bring countless blessings to everyone and be a source of progress, unity, and spiritual fulfilment.
Gul Afroz
Vice-president, Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association, Bradford (West)
