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The Freedom We Crave

What does it mean to be truly free? Is it the absence of rules, or the presence of a deeper purpose?

A sister recently shared a story with me about a welcome party her department held for new students. A senior offered her an alcoholic drink, and she was surprised because her hijab clearly showed she was a Muslimah. She proudly pointed this out, reminding the senior that their religion forbids such drinks.

The senior's response was unexpected: "See, you better be free to do what you want. No one is here to restrict you. Your Parents are not here and look around, no lecturer is with us".

The rest of the story isn't the point. What matters is the temptation behind those words. Humans naturally crave freedom and will do anything to prove that we have it. This is a weakness the devils in humans use as a weapon to make us follow their whims. As Muslims, we've all probably heard similar lines: "Why do you still pray so much? You're not at home anymore".

But brothers and sisters, we must remember that Allah is always with us. His knowledge encompasses everything. Even in the darkest room, Allah sees you. Even when your parents are not with you on campus, Allah is with you and is aware of what you do.

He is As-samee' (The All-Hearing), Al-baseer (The All-Seeing), and Al-'Aleem (The All-Knowing).

This isn't meant to scare you. Instead, think of it as a source of strength when you feel weak. Remember that He can see you even when no one else can, and never give in to those who try to make you go against your Lord's command.