Guest Post | Be Better!

In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful

I often come across a familiar phrase, “Be better,” which resonates not only in the words of others but also in the depths of my own heart. There are moments when I witness others speaking joyfully and proudly about Islam, and I can’t help but feel a sense of guilt and remorse for not measuring up. A quote from my sister, “If the shoe fits, wear it,” opened my eyes to the reality of my flaws and the need for self-improvement. The phrase “Be better” became my guiding principle, prompting me to question when I will know I have truly done my best. The truth is, this mission is endless.

There are times when I find myself slipping back into old habits, sinking into a dark pit. However, I refuse to let guilt consume me while maintaining an outward smile. Even as I write this, I am aware that I can still improve. I may not possess extensive knowledge of Islam or write articles with profound Islamic references, but I am making an effort, and Allah knows my intentions better than anyone. My advice to others is to avoid comparing their efforts to those of others, as it only leads to feelings of inadequacy and loss of motivation. I acknowledge that there are individuals who excel beyond my abilities, but I do not let that hinder my progress. Instead, I look up to scholars whose discussions about Islam and its true beauty inspire me to keep moving forward.

I recall a lecture I once listened to while driving, which described a believer as one who clings to the hand in the sky while a disbeliever wavers and eventually falls apart upon letting go. This analogy resonates deeply within me, and I strive to be the believer who wholeheartedly trusts that divine hand, regardless of the hardships I face. Every day, I endeavor to become a better Muslim, standing at the base of an endless mountain, trusting Allah. Although there may be days when my faith is not at its strongest, I am grateful for the beautiful reminders that uplift me and draw me closer to Allah.

The phrase “Be better” will always persist because none of us are perfect, and there is always room for improvement for the sake of Allah. Witnessing my own progress and being rewarded with what I have longed for only strengthens my love for my Lord. It is not to say that my love for Allah is conditional on receiving what I desire, but rather to acknowledge that my supplications are always heard and answered in the way that Allah knows is best for me. Sometimes I receive more than what I asked for, and other times I do not receive what I wished for, only to later understand why.

I have placed my complete trust in Allah and strive to become a better person because, at the end of the day, we are all fallible humans. Life now appears less vibrant than before, but that is a profound realization of the temporary nature of this world. I am determined to improve myself because I yearn to be beloved in the eyes of my Lord. Although there may be a competition to love Allah the most, I want to actively participate and give it my utmost effort, rather than being discouraged by the competition itself. I aspire to be counted among those who endeavored to be better, running the race fueled by their love for Allah. I may not win the competition, but I take pride in having participated and given it my all. Above all, I have faith that Allah sees my efforts and will never let them go to waste. So, why “Be better”? For the sake of Allah.

– Servant of Allah (Anonymous)