When I think of Baraka, my mind does not brim with memories or noise. The places visited, the meals shared and the trials faced are recallable, but are not at the forefront. Instead, I sense the presence of Baraka. This brings with it a sense of stillness, a quiet calm, and a trusting submission to something more powerful.

Beyond personality, if penetratable, we discover a person’s character and there we find unspoken truths and we may build unbreakable connections. We testified to this truth in the hours we witnessed and the silences we shared. These days, whenever I am blessed to think of Baraka, He bears witness to the silences we still share. May Allah grant Baraka the highest station, and shower her and her family with His mercy.