About Me...

Preface

This poem, originally written as a reflection of my struggles, faith, and gratitude, has been lovingly edited and updated to reflect the fullness of my journey today. At first, it was a personal expression of loneliness and resilience, rooted in my trust in Allah and my deep appreciation for life’s blessings. Over time, it has also become a testament to the love I hold for my family.

In its earlier form, the poem mentioned my wife, Mouminah, and children, Mujahid and Marjanah, whose presence brought light and meaning into my life. Now, with the blessing of my youngest daughter Mysha, I have revised these verses so that she, too, is woven into the fabric of this legacy.

What was once a personal reflection is now also a family dedication, carrying my prayers, gratitude, and love for each of my children. This updated version is more than poetry — it is a record of faith, resilience, and the bonds that keep me moving forward.

My life feels heavy, quiet, and slow,
My family loves me, though at times it doesn’t show.
My friends may pass without a thought or call,
Many still judge me whenever I fall.

Under my heart lies a shadow of pain,
Upon their gestures, I feel the disdain.
Unspoken regrets return to my sight,
Ultimate chaos disturbs me at night.

All that I’ve done is to strive and to try,
All that I write is the truth I rely.
A Prophet beloved, I cherish his name,
Almighty Allah brings comfort the same.

My eyes, lips, and ears — blessings I know,
May these gifts guide me wherever I go.
Made as a servant, with gratitude true,
Merrily serving the faith I pursue.

Mouminah’s smile once brightened my day,
Mujahid’s birth stirred my soul in its way.
Marjanah’s love made my journey complete,
Mysha, my youngest, makes life ever sweet.

At last, I’ve spoken what’s deep in my heart,
And shared the feeling of being apart.
As this world rushes through its fleeting stage,
Anger consumes in this cyber-age.

Rabbī, I thank You for the gifts You bestow,
Rays of mercy through the children I know.
Raise them in faith, in Your guidance abide,
Reward our love, and keep us by Your side.

Originally posted in January 2008 but updated in 2025 to include Mysha, my youngest blessing.

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Dear 'Cuckoo' (This is from my heart to you, my daughter)

Preface

“Dear Cuckoo” is a father’s heartfelt letter to his daughter, written in the form of a poem. It carries the weight of separation, the ache of missing a beloved child, and the quiet pride of watching her grow.

The poem flows between tender confession and loving encouragement. It recalls the father’s own childhood loss, which deepens his fears of distance, yet his faith and devotion transform sorrow into strength. With imagery of trees in the rain and prayers carried across miles, the poem reminds us that love transcends absence.

This work is not just a personal reflection but a universal story of parenthood: the bittersweet journey of letting go while holding on, of trusting that a child will flourish even far away. It is a testimony to enduring love, a father’s voice echoing gently in his daughter’s heart.

This is from my heart to you, my daughter

Dear Cuckoo,

My heart feels heavy each time you go, 

Carrying books, dreams, and courage I know.

I wished your laughter stayed close in this place, 

But life called you forward to run your own race.

As your father, guilt sometimes speaks to me, 

For I never planned this distance to be.

I lost my own parents when I was still small, 

And I fear the same silence may cover it all.

Remember, Cuckoo, I offered another way,

A school in this town where you could stay.

But you chose the harder path, brave and bright, 

And I feel such pride in your strength and your fight.

Just like a tree that grows strong in the rain,

This journey will teach you through struggle and pain. 

Though you live apart, you are never alone,

My prayers reach you wherever you’ve gone.

Amid my sadness, a light still appears, 

Joy in your courage outshining my fears. 

You earned your place where competition is high, 

With wisdom and effort that money can’t buy. 

Never forget, Cuckoo, both joy and my care, 

I miss you deeply but I’m glad you are there. 

For distance may hurt, yet it helps you to see, 

The woman you’re shaping yourself to be.

All that I ask is you carry me near,

Not in regret, but in love that is clear.

Keep faith in your heart, keep praying each day, 

God’s strength will be with you to guide your way.

Hold fast, my Cuckoo, with courage and grace,

The world may be wide, but you’ll find your place. 

And though miles may divide, my love will still stay, 

A father’s devotion will not fade away.

With all my love, 

Abie

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