Day 13: My Fellow Traveler

Guest blogger: My dear friend ShazmaI could call Shazma a dear friend, but she's definitely more like a sister.  We met over a decade ago in Houston, to discuss a mother-daughter book club for our girls. We've been discussing mothers and daughters and books, and everything else under the sun, ever since.  We've traveled to many places together, from Buenos Aires to Bhopal, but our friendship is forged through a much deeper journey -- to try and raise our families with perspective, to try and mediate tradition and conviction, to try and face life's challenges with grace -- and to have as much fun in the process!  Shazma hesitated before sending the following dua, "I'm not a writer like you," she wrote.  It couldn't be more perfect, Sis."As we drive on Highway 59 North, satiated from our meal of noodles and sizzling chicken at Banana Leaf, I catch a  glimpse of an (almost) perfectly round moon, beaming bright and clear. Half way through the month of Ramadan!!  I recollect a short poem by Mark Nepo:

“To journey without being changed is to be a nomad. To change without journeying is to be a chameleon. To journey and to be transformed by the journey is to be a pilgrim.” 

It is my prayer that wherever in the world you may be, this month replenishes your spirit, renews your hopes and strengthens your faith.  That my fellow travelers and friends find peace and blessings."

Day 13, Dua 13: Replenish