Reflection 69 – An Ironic Feeling!

Yesterday we posted on Facebook asking for people’s prayers on the day of Arafat. Frankly, I wasn’t expecting that much interaction. To say the least, I was thrilled and overjoyed to see thousands of people interacting and wishing me and my family all the best. I was even super lucky to have some people sending me from Arafat telling me that they prayed for me! This floodgate of love and prayers and support makes me sometimes really think; what if I never had ALS? Would I have ever received all these prayers? Definitely not. I know it might sound a bit awkward, but sometimes I try to imagine how my life would have been had I not ALS?! Probably, I would have remained teaching at AUC with my effect being limited to those students I would have taught. I would be working on publishing (boring) academic papers that no one really reads except a few, but I would need to do to get promoted . Well, nothing outstanding or special! Now, let‘s look at the other (actual) scenario that took place. And it is a HUGE blessing!
Rather than being confined to the AUC premises, elhamdulellah I have a much bigger audience from all different backgrounds. Rather than having to write research papers for a very narrow audience, I am able now to write about WHATEVER topics interest me, and that also touch people’s hearts and minds. I was also able to have a direct connection with various people, who themselves are going through other difficulties whether health related or not, and who can relate to my story somehow. The issue of ALS became more known to people, who initially never heard about the disease. My hope by shedding some light on ALS that this could eventually help other ALS patients. And of course, above all of this was getting to know all of you through the virtual world which I now consider as my extended family. The amount of love, prayers, and positive vibes I get from reading your comments and interacting with some of you is beyond imagination. It is like the fuel that keeps me going! Don‘t underestimate a small comment or even an emoji . It all means a lot to me. I do my best to read each and every comment everyone writes, and it makes a big difference to me to see this kind of caring interaction. So, in some ironic way: Thank You, ALS .
Small Piece of Advice:
If you know someone going through a difficulty, don‘t underestimate a kind word that you send them. Sometimes, we need to feel we are remembered and that someone out there cares for us. In many cases, we might not have much to offer and we might feel embarrassed to talk to that person and so we simply shy away and withdraw ourselves. DON’T DO THAT. We live in tough times. Each one of us is grappling with some sort of difficulty, whether it‘s financial, health, etc. In the midst of all of this, people feel broken many times and want to hear a word of affirmation; something that boosts their self-confidence. Most of us typically have hundreds of contacts on our phones, but usually we are in touch only with a handful of people. Why not go through your contacts list, and then drop a line or two for some of them and show them that you remember and care for them. They might think you‘re crazy when they get your message after years or decades of no communication, but so what !