When I hear of the negative remarks that have been stated against my blessed Murshid, it offends me greatly.  A few years ago I may not have cared so much but as of Oct 22nd 2005 I have come to care a great deal.  In October of 2005 I had the opportunity to go to Pakistan to provide medical relief for the victims of the earthquake that devastated many parts of an area referred to as the Southwest territory.  I was initially excited about this trip because my medical school was allowing me to use this as an away rotation. Additionally I thought this experience would enhance the appeal of my CV (which is like a resume). Arriving in Pakistan all I could think about was what a wonderful medical experience this would be. Little did I know that by the end of the journey I would come away with so much more!  This realization started on my first meeting with my Murshid.

Upon my arrival to his house I was invited in to sit and offered fruit.  We began talking about what lied ahead for the team of doctors and nurses that had been assembled to deliver the much needed medical care to many indigent people affected by the catastrophe.  He told us to be gentle, show compassion and treat anyone who comes regardless of RELIGION, creed, or socio-economic status.  He said that taking care of people in this way means so much to Allah (SWT) and that He would be very pleased with our efforts.  I was a bit surprised because I initially thought I was going to help primarily other Muslims.

Needless to say I warmed to him very quickly and over the course of our 6 week journey, I listened to all that he said.  I was so impressed at his degree of compassion and level of commitment in helping all of mankind!  Although I was raised Muslim my entire life, being around him I learned the true beauty of Islam for the first time!  I cannot impress upon you the change that being in his presence has caused, but I will say that I DO KNOW that I DO NOT want to return to the person that I was before I met him.  A person who constantly fell into the traps and temptations of the accursed Shaitan!  I can only hope that the lessons he taught me last me the rest of my life!

I went there to help people but realized that the main person I helped was myself. I want to leave anyone reading this with one last thing.  You can never really know a person until you have made their acquaintance and at least had a conversation with them. I PROMISE that if you ever have the opportunity to do so, you WILL find it IMPOSSIBLE to say a negative thing about this truly wonderful human being!!!!