By Shamsi Ali Al-Nuyorki*
NEW YORK, MENARA62.COM – As we step into an age that’s no longer young, silence arrives, knocking on the deepest part of our hearts. In that quiet space, countless questions surface—most of which we don’t have to answer. They simply drift through the mind, while we smile and sip coffee. We keep reminding ourselves that life is worth questioning.
Henry David Thoreau painted modern humans as always chasing recognition and status. The more we pursue it, the more we become strangers to ourselves. “We’re busy every day searching for life, yet we rarely truly live,” he said.
Amid a flood of information and a tendency toward denial, we’re thrust into an instant, drama‑filled existence. Modern people crave fame but feel emptier. Our purpose seems reduced to an absurd quest for approval.
The 2025 journey just ended, wrapped in fatigue and long prayers. Every step—good or bad—is simply acceptance. It’s not just about counting the turnover of the year; it’s about opening ourselves to continual growth. 2025 may not always be kind, in fact, it’s been so cruel, but it can also make us stronger. Not everything yields tangible results, yet many lessons become more meaningful.
The zero‑kilometer mark of 2026 is around the corner, a new timeline being redrawn. How far we go depends on what we truly desire, and the quiet spaces are where we find it again. “Silence isn’t emptiness—it’s the room where we meet ourselves”, as Thoreau reminded us.
Don’t get too tangled up in life’s ups and downs. Whether we succeed or fail, are poor or rich, famous or unknown, strong or weak—just treat it as part of the ride. The day begins with morning sun and ends with dusk, and every night is followed by dawn. What matters is how we view those fluctuations in life.
If we view life through a negative, pessimistic lens, it becomes a heavy burden of anxiety and fear. But when we frame it positively and optimistically, life feels lighter and more joyful—even amid challenges. That hopeful outlook keeps us motivated to chase the dreams we’ve been promised.
Thank the Almighty for every blessing, let Allah’s presence fill every heartbeat, and seek His forgiveness for all errors and sins. Raise your hands to the heavens, humble your heart before the Creator of the heavens and earth, and ask for His guidance at every step as you walk the corridors of life.
Don’t lean on or hope in any creature- you’ll only end up disappointed. Learn to rely on the Creator, the Sovereign of the universe. With Him, hope is certain and ever‑present.
May the hush of silence reveal the true essence of life. Let go of what hurts, keep what matters, and be ready for a better version of yourself!
Jamaica Hills, January 1, 2026
