January Reads: A Month of Grit and Grace

The Blurred Days of January

First off, let me confess something – January flew by in a blur, and if I hadn’t scribbled down all my reading, they’d probably be lost in the abyss of forgotten memories. I thought I had read more books but couldn’t remember all the titles. For instance, I have a faint recollection of delving into a book about yoga, but alas, its title remains a mystery.

Nevertheless, I managed to keep tabs on two gems that I devoured cover to cover.

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

The first book on my list was “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth. This book got me pondering about grit – that blend of passion and persistence that propels us toward our goals. As I flipped through the pages, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey.

You see, I’ve always been a bit of a dabbler, flitting from one interest to another. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of changing hobbies and pursuits, there’s one constant: writing. Since my primary school days, the ink of my pen has been dancing across countless pages, weaving stories and capturing moments. Sure, my dedication wavered in my younger years, but as I entered my thirties, something clicked. I shifted careers from a Geophysicist to a Corporate Writer. My commitment to the craft deepened, and today, I can proudly say that writing is my anchor amidst life’s ever-shifting tides.

Duckworth’s insights also sparked ideas on nurturing grit in my children. Translating theory into practice within the chaos of family life is no easy feat. Nevertheless, I’m determined to instil in them the resilience and tenacity to pursue their passions.

Talk To Allah

Now, let’s move on to book number two: “Talk To Allah: Finding Comfort by Making Du’a To Him” by Ayesha Syahira. This little treasure of a book struck a different chord with me. It felt like sitting down for a heart-to-heart chat with a dear friend, one who listens without judgment and offers solace in times of need.

During some particularly challenging weeks, this book became my refuge. Its gentle reminders nudged me to engage in frequent and sincere conversations with Allah through du’a. With each whispered prayer, I felt a profound sense of peace wash over me. It’s a comforting notion, knowing that I can turn to a higher power and express my needs and desires openly.

January was a month of introspection and inspiration, thanks to these two wonderful books. They reminded me of the power of perseverance in chasing dreams and the solace found in faith and prayer.