Alhamdulillah, I have attended the UK Jalsa nearly every year since I was a little girl. However, the last seven years have been particularly special, yet, challenging as I have attended the Jalsa as a mother of three, alhamdolillah. Many other mothers reading this will probably relate to the fact that it isn’t easy! However, I wouldn’t change it as I see it as a blessing.
I feel blessed that I can allow my children to benefit and experience the Jalsa like I did as a child. They love seeing Huzoor (May Allah be his Helper) arrive in the ladies’ area, benefitting from his wisdom, waiting for him to arrive in his car, driving past and Huzoor (May Allah be his Helper) waving and smiling at us all. They love to see the other children in the children’s marquee. And if the weather is good to us, they love the puddles and playing in the mud (eyebrows raised, I know!)
They enjoy seeing children of other cultures and backgrounds. They love seeing their father on duty and accompanying him for a few minutes before they are handed back over to their mother! And don’t get me started on the Naara-e-Takbeers! Any excuse to ride on the buggies too!
Suddenly, you realize, that the three days of Jalsa – which we anticipated with such longing and energy – are over in the blink of an eye, and the yearning for the next Jalsa, the long wait, begins once again.
May Allah Ta’ala bless everyone coming to Jalsa this year and those watching at home; may He keep everyone safe; and may He make it easy for everyone, particularly for the mothers, fathers and children. Ameen.
Madiha Walker
