What countries do you want to visit?

From the moment I was introduced to the teachings of Islam, I’ve held a deep, visceral longing to answer the whispered stories of the Hajj and Umrah. The vibrant city of Mecca, the very heart of Islam, calls out to millions of Muslims, but I feel this call personally, echoing deep within my soul.

This isn’t just a journey across continents, but a spiritual odyssey, a voyage to deepen my understanding of faith and my bond with Allah. This isn’t just about desire or financial means; it’s a celestial summoning tied intrinsically to my destiny.

When I close my eyes, I can envision it – the sacred Kaaba, standing bold and black against the sun-drenched stones of Mecca, pulsating with the energy of countless prayers and dreams.

I imagine my family and I, hands entwined, a part of the whirling mass of pilgrims from all corners of the earth, all answering the same call.

The unity of the Ummah is breathtaking, inspiring; it’s a demonstration of humanity’s capacity to surpass cultural and socio-economic differences for a shared, divine purpose. Anticipating that moment fills me with an inexpressible emotion, a blend of humility, hope, and overwhelming gratitude.

Each prayer I utter, each day I strive and labor, brings me one step closer to making this sacred journey a reality. I yearn to touch the ‘Hajar Aswad’ of the Kaaba, to taste the freshness and blessing  of the Zamzam water, and to walk in the footsteps of Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him.

I can almost feel the profound peace that will envelop my heart as my family and I stand together on Mount Arafat, our prayers carried by the desert wind. The Hajj or Umrah isn’t just a pilgrimage; it’s a testament to my faith and love for Allah.

And when that day finally arrives, when my family and I step onto the holy grounds of Mecca, it will stand as a testament to our perseverance, faith, and the divine destiny that beckons each and every one of us.