SADAF SYED

When interviews after founder announces her run for a seat at the Congress.
Of course, I had a lot more to say about how Islam empowers Muslim women but this is what made the cut. 💁🏻‍♀️
women

Just like life
My trip back home to SoCal
Has been tested with mixed emotions.
DELIGHTED to spend time with family and celebrate my birthday in the west coast after 6 years since my dads passing.
Then the rugs gets pull out from under your feet (the next day) with the news of legend Kobe Bryant and others passing away.
An hour later, someone rear ends my car, leaving me with some aches and pain.
But. That. IS. Life.
Our happiness only depends on our attitude with God. Choose your words wisely, be merciful to yourself and others, leave the judgement to God as He is the Most Merciful. Just like Kobe as a coach advices Gianna and her teammates, “Get better everyday!”
🙏🏼For some guidance and comfort, I turned to God, I cried and prayed. Next day, I paid my respect at the Staple Center. 💐 @ Staples Center

Bidding farewell to

Be still my heart ♥️

Ya Allah, you are the One who gives us strength so please strengthen me

Ya Allah, you are the one who knows the secrets of my heart so please nurture me with your Mercy

Ya Allah, you are the one who is the Best of Planners so make me the one who has complete tawwakul of you, so guide me

Allow me to bloom into something so beautiful internally from all the ups and down in my life.

Who is your beloved, ya Allah?

In what you love our hearts will find peace.

What is beloved to you is beloved to us.

Is it what completes
la illaha ilallah wa Muhammad ur RasulAllah (salal lahu alayhi wa salim)

Is it he who was born an orphan,
Whose own family turned against him
Who lost his loved ones
and had to bury his children

He who experienced tests after tests

Is it he who was sent by God as a Mercy to mankind
To save Mecca as they were drowning in sins

Indeed it IS he who will intercede for us on the day of resurrection. (God Willing)

So lets praise the one who leads us to the Most Praiseworthy One

Oh dear soul of mine stay connected to the Divine, your status and dollar bills nothing matters, by God hold onto the rope of Allah there you will find the manual of life

Be still my heart ♥️ because there is no God but God and Prophet Muhammad is his messenger.

May peace and blessings be upon him

📸 & ✍️

MUSLIMS OF CHICAGO:
Sadaf Syed is an award-winning photojournalist & author. Her book, iCover, is a coffee table book showcasing different women including surfers, bikers, dancers, boxers and other fascinating individuals who cover! Due to her success in breaking down stereotypes and inspiring her audience through photography, has been named a leading artist by the White House. She previously worked for and is a board member and official photographer at 👊🏽 In March 2019, Syed was recruited by the to photograph Muslim Chicagoans for their American Medina exhibit which is on right now! Syed often gives talks and holds book signings at schools and community centres and bookstores! Please connect with her to collaborate and swipe to see some pics!