The Start to My Legacy...
Religion
Islam: the religion that I was born into, the one I have practiced my entire life, & the reason behind my principles and lifestyle.
Culture
Pakistani: the culture I have been raised in, the lifestyle I proudly embrace, and the traditions I carry on day to day.
Islam
Pakistan
What defines religion? Instead of a hijab wrapped around ones hair, a cross necklace hanging on one's chest , or a kippah cap placed on a male's head , religion is defined by principles and spiritual beliefs. Two of my favorite aspects about my life are the relationships I have with friends and family and the religion I practice. I have always looked up to the individuals who not only depict their religion with various symbols, but rather let their actions and ethics reflect their beliefs. Thanks to my parents and family members, I have not let outside influences and differing environments effect my morals. I am a strong believer that one's actions when no one is looking are the traits that define and build one's character. In this world where more people are selfish than they are altruistic, I find it necessary to be one of the few individuals who helps and does good things for others out of the trueness of my heart and with no expectations in return. Anytime I am worried, have been hurt, need more patience, or am losing hope, I return to God and blindly believe that he is the only who can create a path to fix my issues and give me the strength to make my dreams come true. I believe that God has ordered our lives' paths, but left it up to us as to which steps we are going to take to reach our destination. A few of the greatest lessons I've learned from Islam are to never expose anyone's flaws, forgive people for their actions as soon as possible, and treat every single individual with respect, regardless of their attitude or status. I'm proud to practice a religion that sees anger and grudge as a sin and forgiveness and ethics as the most rewarding and special good deeds. If I had to choose between fame, respect, money, or the the most valuable items in this life, I would choose religion. Islam has brought peace into my life and helps me make every decision easily.
What defines culture? Culture is the aspect of life that instills values, establishes norms, and teaches us traditions that we love to follow. My culture is full of joy, celebrations, colors, food, music, and family. Since I was born, I have been raised in a joint family with 4 uncles, 5 aunts, and 13 amazing cousins who are no different than my siblings and best friends. I have learned to share everything from the very basics of food and toys to our cars and homes. Living in the same house, we learned the value of respecting adults, being patient and humble, working hard to be successful, loving one another, and most importantly embracing and understanding each and every Pakistani tradition. One of my favorite aspects about Pakistani culture is hospitality; not a single person has left our house without eating or drinking at least one sip or bite. I love to see the smiles my family brings to strangers' faces when we meet them for the first time with bucket loads of love and treat them as if we've known them for years. I enjoy the meaningful wedding receptions and daily family meals we have together. My culture has taught me that blood is not the only thing that creates relationships, but affection is. The care we have towards one another, the time we give, and the support figure we become in times of need are the feelings that develop an unbreakable bond between 2 individuals. My culture has taught me to love others deeply and standby their side through happiness and through tears.
With time, the value we hold for things changes, and over the years, I have understood the meaning behind our traditions and the value of our beliefs.