When we find ourselves suffering from just one day of fasting in hope for some reward from the Almighty, we should remember the three consecutive fasts which the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them) observed when they gave their meal to the poor, the needy, and the orphan – without seeking any reward – as cited in Sura Insaan.

When are we going to realize the true message of fasting? When will we stop complaining so that we can reap in the benefits of this month of Allah's mercy? The more we continue complaining and not doing the extra recommended spiritual acts, the more we are missing out – not Allah.

Putting the hijab on was only the beginning. I soon realized it is not just a piece of cloth on my head, but a spiritual journey to the Almighty; I could feel my love of Allah increasing daily. He soon blessed me to go on Ziyarat to visit Lady Zainab (peace be upon her), and upon my return I found within myself a strong craving to gain Islamic knowledge. I began learning what I did not know, and things I once thought I knew.

It is impossible for Allah to lead someone astray initially since this goes against His wisdom, and since nothing comes from Allah except goodness and mercy, He does not lead anyone on an incorrect path from the outset.

Does an inner divine feeling mean God exists? A baby's cries seem to be the roadmap to a mother's milk, thirst sets us off in the direction of water, and our loneliness and longing for companionship leads towards our fellow human beings and future spouses. All those urges point to something real.

The blessed month of Ramadan is our month – the month of the Ummah. It is during these few weeks that we are the guests of the Most Gracious. Taking our role into consideration, we should try to be the best of guests – after all, we do want to be worthy of being invited again!

In an Islamic context, Wilaya is the faculty of legal and moral authority, which enables a person in whom this authority is vested to exact obedience to fulfill the moral vision of Islamic revelation. The Islamic concept of Wilaya implies religious and political authorities are one and the same. Accordingly in the Qur'anic context of the divine guidance for humanity, the Prophet's role should be considered as the head of state and the founder of a religious order.

Are we using our time wisely as we await our Imam? Are we making efforts to improve ourselves to the extent that we may be worthy of helping the Master of our Age, whenever it will be that he graces us with his presence?Are we ready for his arrival?