Some relations have blood ties, whereas others flourish on shared memories, unwavering love, and many years together. One of the most cherished relationships I have ever had has always been the one between my cousin and me. My cousin has never been a mere cousin but has been my best friend and childhood mate, who has been there to make me happy in all those memorable moments of my life.
Just recently, my cousin made the most beautiful step in his entire life in the form of getting married. It warms my heart to see him start this new journey in his life. I sincerely hope that Allah blesses my cousin with happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, barakah, and success.
Childhood Memories That Time Can Never Erase
Our childhood was different from what children of today’s generation go through. We belong to a generation of people who created memories outside, instead of inside, using mobile phones. The current generation of people, called Generation Z or Generation Alpha, has grown up amidst technological gadgets.
But for us, happiness came in the simplest ways. We played the game of cricket for hours and turned every vacant ground into a stadium. Our matches were full of fun and laughter, and I still can hear the sounds of it in my head.
Another game which we loved to play is carrom. We spent many evenings playing carrom, having fun, laughing at each other’s mistakes, and praising each other’s wins.
The Playground That Built
Lifelong Memories
Our playground was our second home, where we used to play freely, imagine ourselves unlimitedly and develop everlasting bonds. We used to share our stories and laugh at petty things and live a life which we think is priceless today.
When looking back at the days gone by, I now feel that those days, which seemed so ordinary to us, were the most extraordinary days of our lives.
Growing Up, Yet Remaining Close
The passage of time inevitably led us into adulthood. We had more responsibilities, and our career paths were defined. However, after all these years, our love and respect for each other remained just the same.
Every time we meet, I am convinced that real relationships do not diminish with time but rather become stronger because of time.
Marriage: The Beginning of a
Beautiful Journey
One of the most significant events in someone’s life would be marriage. It isn’t an event but the start of a lifetime bond characterized by love, devotion, respect, and responsibility.
Two people decide to take the journey of life with each other, promising each other that they will be there when things become tough, celebrating every success, and creating a loving home together.
Marriage teaches patience in tough times, gratitude in good times, forgiveness in misunderstandings, and dedication in all circumstances.
Marriage in Islam: Completing Half
of Faith
Marriage holds an exceedingly important place in Islam. It is considered a divine union established by Allah, through which peace and mercy come into being between husband and wife.
Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) emphasized the importance of marriage, and it has been narrated that a person who gets married achieves half of his faith through marriage, and in the other half he keeps Allah in his mind.
Through this very lesson we learn that marriage is not just a worldly affair, but it is a spiritual duty as well. Husband and wife become partners in worship, and help each other achieve righteousness and establish their family on Islamic teachings.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Seeing my cousin all groomed up today, there is a flurry of memories flooding through my mind from childhood. From playing cricket till sunset, to playing carrom for hours, taking trips to the playground, and enjoying our laughter in innocence – those days can never be replicated.
But these memories will forever stay alive in our hearts, reminding us of our roots and of how wonderfully our lives have progressed since then.
From Childhood Friend to Family Man
It is hard to imagine the pace at which time has passed by. The little boy whom I used to play with now prepares himself to take on the mantle of being a husband.
It is indeed heartwarming to witness such a transition. This is because it serves as a reminder that life is an ongoing process and every end is just a beginning.
A Heartfelt Prayer for the Newlyweds
On this auspicious day, I wish that our Almighty God showers abundant love, trust, happiness, and barakah on this wonderful couple, my dear cousin and his lovely wife. Let their hearts remain forever united in love, their home always be full of peace, and may they have countless blessings in their life.
I wish that God gives them patience during trials, thankfulness during blessings, strength during hardships, and happiness at every step of their life. May He bless them with good progeny.
Congratulations on Your
New Beginning
The day that you are celebrating today is the day of your marriage; it is also the beginning of a new voyage of love and faith which you will experience throughout your life. Although I will always cherish the memories of our childhood days, the memories of today will always be the best achievement in your life.
My dear cousin, Congratulations. May God bless your married life with success and prosperity. Amen.
—The Author is a writer, social educator and researcher from District Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, India, and holds a master’s in Gender Studies and a BED. Writes on social issues, education, and gender perspectives, promoting awareness, inclusive development and positive change.
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