There is so much I wish I could share about my experiences working in a hospital. I have held the hand of a dying man, had existential discussions with a terminally-ill agnostic, have witnessed smudging ceremonies, heard family members share the incredible and humorous memories of loved ones they've lost, have had warm conversations about the value … Continue reading Vulnerable Moments
Who Do You Love? (And Have You Told Them?)
Who do you love? Who does the heart within your chest pull you in the direction of? And by this I do not mean a “love for their good looks” or any other type of worldly love; this love is way beneath the type of love I am talking about here. Who does your heart … Continue reading Who Do You Love? (And Have You Told Them?)
Islam and Peacemaking
On Saturday, November 29, I was invited to participate alongside other faith representatives in a panel discussion on how our faith views War and Peace. Unfortunately, the event was not recorded. However, I am sharing below an excerpt from my lecture notes. I begin first in the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the … Continue reading Islam and Peacemaking
Reflection on Neediness
Our neediness of others is reflective of the reality that we are not One, while Allah (Exalted is He) is. Yet, while Allah, alone, is unique in this quality, through our lack of possessing it (that is, through our lack of being One), we may attain to other godly qualities. For example, it is through … Continue reading Reflection on Neediness
Gems from the Inspired by the Beloved ﷺ Retreat
My latest post has been published on SeekersGuidance's Blog. It includes gems and personal reflections from our Inspired by the Beloved ﷺ retreat in Toronto. Click here to read.
Mspiration Interview
Saeed Saeed, an Australian writer and journalist, interviewed me recently for his unique blog: Mspiration. I was honored to be featured on his site alongside individuals who inspire me. I also appreciated Saeed's relaxed and professional interview style and overall dedication to his site and its goals. May Allah reward him generously. Those interested in reading … Continue reading Mspiration Interview
Spiritual Care Psychotherapy?
Have you ever thought of chaplains as psychotherapists? If the answer is no, then perhaps your perspective may change; particularly if you live in Ontario, Canada. For the province of Ontario will soon be regulating the controlled act of psychotherapy, which, broadly defined below, includes aspects of spiritual care. And, like other healthcare professionals, including … Continue reading Spiritual Care Psychotherapy?
Digging My Well
Several years ago, one of my teachers related to me a metaphor that has served to shape how I approach spirituality and spiritual practice. He informed me that spiritual enlightenment, like digging a well, takes dedicated effort and digging in the same location. However, a lack of trusting the location one has starting digging at … Continue reading Digging My Well
Living the Legacy of Loved One’s Lost
A deeply personal account of my own struggle losing my mother to cancer. These brief words were offered as support to family members and friends of patients who had lost their lives due to illness and other causes. They were provided as part of a memorial service that took place at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton … Continue reading Living the Legacy of Loved One’s Lost
Can You Be Loved?
I have recently discovered how much my own self-care is related to how I understand my relationship with my Lord. Particularly, how I feel a certain sense of anxiety at times as to whether or not I am fulfilling my potential. This worry takes a toll on my physical and spiritual health. My discontent with … Continue reading Can You Be Loved?
Ibrahim J. Long 