Life is Short, Make it Count
In just over five years, my family and I have faced a profound and heart-wrenching series of losses that have completely reshaped my understanding of life, love, and the inevitable reality of death. We lost my father, my sister, and my daughter, each passing leaving an indelible mark on my soul. The grief of losing those closest to you is unlike anything else. It’s a kind of pain that settles deep within, a weight that, over time, you learn to carry but never truly shed.
Just as I was beginning to navigate this sorrow, life threw me another curveball. Recently, a dear family friend passed away unexpectedly. Their death was sudden, a stark reminder that none of us is guaranteed tomorrow. The shock of it all, especially after experiencing the losses of my loved ones, was almost too much to bear. It brought back memories of my father’s gentle wisdom, my sister’s laughter, and my daughter’s bright, hopeful spirit. These memories are both a source of comfort and a reminder of how fleeting life truly is.
The unpredictability of life’s end and the certainty of death have forced me to reflect on what I am doing with the time I have left. We all know, at some level, that life is fragile, but we often forget to live in light of that truth. The past few years have made me realize that our time here is not only precious but also limited. As Muslims, we are reminded that "Every soul shall taste death" (Qur'an 3:185), and that death is not just a distant possibility but a certainty for us all. Our journey towards the Hereafter is something that should shape the way we live every single day.
Islam teaches us to prepare for death even while we are living. It’s a concept that goes beyond merely waiting for our time to come; it urges us to make the most of every moment. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Remember often the destroyer of pleasures (death), for it will certainly make you focus on the right things." (Sunan al-Tirmidhi). This hadith serves as a poignant reminder to stay mindful of the inevitable end, but more importantly, it encourages us to live a life that is meaningful and purposeful.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned through grief is the importance of leaving behind a legacy that reflects our values, faith, and commitment to others. Islam emphasizes the importance of settling our affairs before we pass away. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) instructed us to make our wills, saying, “It is a duty upon every Muslim who has something to bequeath not to let two nights pass without writing his will.” (Sahih al-Bukhari). This simple yet profound instruction highlights the importance of preparing for death, not in a morbid sense, but as an act of responsibility and care for our loved ones.
Part of this preparation includes settling our debts. The Prophet (peace be upon him) made it clear that paying off debts is crucial, even before one’s funeral rites. He said, “The soul of a believer is held hostage by his debt until it is paid off.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi). It’s not only a matter of fulfilling an obligation, but also of ensuring that we don't burden those we leave behind with unresolved matters. It’s an act of mercy, for both ourselves and those who remain.
Additionally, Islam encourages us to live a life of service, charity, and goodness—things that outlast us. The legacy we leave is not only in material wealth but in how we impacted others’ lives. “When a person dies, his deeds come to an end, except for three: a continuous charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim). These words remind us to live with purpose: to give, to teach, and to raise those who will carry our legacy forward.
Grieving over the loss of loved ones can be a long, painful journey. But in my grief, I’ve found solace in the fact that death is not an end but a transition to something much more significant. Our deeds in this world will determine our place in the Hereafter. So, as I continue to navigate this journey of grief and remembrance, I urge you, my dear reader, to make your life count.
Prepare for the inevitable with a clear mind, a pure heart, and a commitment to living a life that honors your Creator. Write your will, settle your debts, and seek to leave behind a legacy of love, kindness, and faith. Life is short—make it count, for in the end, it is what you’ve done for others and the good you’ve instilled in the world that will remain. "Indeed, Allah has written for every soul its appointed time of death, but He has also written for us the means to prepare for it."
May we live our lives with purpose, and may we meet our Lord with a heart full of faith, ready for the next chapter of our eternal journey.
Ameen!