Yasmeen ran a flower shop. She spent her days tying jasmine into delicate bouquets, arranging roses, and weaving marigold garlands.
She was pious. Five times a day, she poured her heart out to Allah, having been raised on the principle that Allah alone is the best provider. Yet, life had been unforgiving. Business was slow; debts loomed large.
Each evening, Yasmeen would count her earnings, barely enough to scrape by.
Her faith began to waver as more time passed. The light of hope disappeared from her once shiny eyes. “Allah, why is nothing working out for me?” she questioned often with tears streaming down her face.
At last, just as she was at her wit’s end, a wealthy, old woman stumbled into her shop, having been misled while searching for another florist. The woman was organizing her daughter’s wedding and needed an entire floral arrangement, and she instantly liked Yasmeen’s designs, forgetting about the one she was searching for.
Yasmeen gladly took the commission, worked tirelessly through the night, and created a masterpiece. To her surprise, the woman was so impressed that she not only paid Yasmeen handsomely but also recommended her to others. Yasmeen was able to pay off her debts.
Yasmeen’s shop flourished gradually. As she prostrated in gratitude during her nightly prayer, she whispered, “Truly, Allah delays but never denies.”
Thus, one should always remain hopeful. Sometimes, when we feel like it is the end, Allah has something amazing prepared for us right around the corner. In fact, Allah says in Surah At-Talaq (65:3):
“And He will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah– then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose…”
When you feel lost, remind yourself that Allah’s wisdom is beyond your understanding. Maybe the delay is saving you from something you cannot see or preparing you for something you’re not yet ready for. Then, ask yourself, “Am I trusting in His plan, or am I questioning His timing? Have I truly done my part? Have I relied on Him fully, or am I holding on to fear instead of faith?”
