When we find ourselves suffering from just one day of fasting in hope for some reward from the Almighty, we should remember the three consecutive fasts which the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them) observed when they gave their meal to the poor, the needy, and the orphan – without seeking any reward – as cited in Sura Insaan.

When are we going to realize the true message of fasting? When will we stop complaining so that we can reap in the benefits of this month of Allah's mercy? The more we continue complaining and not doing the extra recommended spiritual acts, the more we are missing out – not Allah.

Putting the hijab on was only the beginning. I soon realized it is not just a piece of cloth on my head, but a spiritual journey to the Almighty; I could feel my love of Allah increasing daily. He soon blessed me to go on Ziyarat to visit Lady Zainab (peace be upon her), and upon my return I found within myself a strong craving to gain Islamic knowledge. I began learning what I did not know, and things I once thought I knew.

The problem of modernity as seen by Martyr Ayatollah Murtadha Mutahhari in the period leading up to the Islamic Revolution in Iran may be understood by considering his reactions to the threat of Marxism, as well as his explicitly stated views regarding modernity. His attitude towards modernity is often expressed in his complex reaction to Marxism.

It is impossible for Allah to lead someone astray initially since this goes against His wisdom, and since nothing comes from Allah except goodness and mercy, He does not lead anyone on an incorrect path from the outset.

Indeed, there is a need for a physical change around us in order to allow and enhance inner change. When we are determined to stop an act of transgression against God, such as listening to the impermissible forms of music, it is not enough to simply stop – rather, we must break the CDs, delete the MP3s and format the hard drive if need be.