Last week some of us gathered to say farewell to Dana Jabri and Hanan Farhan, who are both leaving Chicago, if hopefully for a short time. In our tradition, we try not to overly praise people, especially in their presence for this poses spiritual dangers for them. However, it is also part of the Prophets instructions to us that we should tell the people we love that we love them. So, I wanted to share a brief message in the spirit of my own appreciation and affection for Dana and Hanan, and I know I speak on behalf of the whole UMMA family. What Dana and Hanan have each accomplished already are outstanding examples of my hopes and wishes for all the students here at DePaul. They have been leaders of UMMA who stepped up and accepted responsibility for work when others couldnt or wouldnt. They have been tremendously active not only within UMMA but in the DePaul and Chicago communities beyond UMMA. They have been committed and performed with Ihsaan (beauty, excellence) in their academic work and their commitment to Islamic learning and practice. Perhaps most importantly whenever I think of Dana and Hanan I think of the efforts they always made to create community among all the Muslims at DePaul and the ways in which they always strove to be consistent in their service to,understanding of, and connection with, others and especially all those on the margins of our society. Like all of us human beings Dana and Hanan each have had their own struggles and challenges in their time with us, but like many of those who are especially close to and beloved by God, it was often the case that those of us around them were not even aware of those struggles, as their commitment to others and perseverance in doing what is right and being grateful for what they have never wavered. It is also indicative to me of one of the things I love most about Dana and Hanan that at the little gathering we had we were joined not only by many friends but by their siblings and cousins... Dana and Hanan are both completely committed to their families and are amazing representatives of their families to the world. Wherever life takes them I hope that they know they will always be considered part of the DePaul UMMA family. (And to make sure they dont forget I will be there to relate a small fraction of their amazing accomplishments and service to the world with the #ChicagoUMMA.). Dana and Hanan, we entrust you to the protection of Allah and we ask that He guard and protect both of you, and everyone that you love, forever!
Posted on: Sat, 09 Aug 2014 17:17:14 +0000
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