Perseverance — Page 207
Concluding Thoughts 207 Last Word: After several years, I feel enriched by the interactions I’ve had with Brother Rashid and I will remember him in my prayers, as I hope you do. I am reminded of a h ad i th in S a hih Muslim, Kit a b-ul- Wa s iyyah [Book of Inheritance], narrated by Ab u Hurayrah ra : “Allah’s Messenger saw said, ‘When a man dies, [all of] his actions come to an end, except three: a s adaqah j a riyyah [ perpetual charity ], knowledge [from him] by which the people are benefitted, or a pious son who prays for him. ’” I am grateful to Allah for extending Rashid’s life – at least long enough to see his wish (i. e. , this book) come true – which to me, indicates this is a story He approves. And for this, I thank the Lord for His grace and mercy upon us – this blessed Jam a‘ ah. May He continue to shower His mercy, love, kindness and forgiveness upon Rashid Ahmad American and his family, and grant him nearness to Him in the company of the exalted and chosen ones. A m i n. And in the end we seek no praise – lest we forget our beginning and our end – for it rightfully belongs to Him, Who has no beginning nor any end. Naser-ud-Din Shams March 10, 2015