I visited my cousins in Kaduna during the holiday. I also had the opportunity to visit my friend Bilkisu’s house. She promised to take me around town to prove to me just how exciting Kaduna is compared to Minna. I hate to admit that it was already convinced even before we went out. Bee invited me for her cousins’ wedding that was scheduled to take place while I was still in town. The most interesting event I attended was the picnic. I chose the word ‘interesting’ because it is an experience that I just might never forget. The venue for the picnic was a spot in the outskirts of Kaduna. I heard from my cousin Khadijah, that it was a thirty minute drive from the main city. Khadijah dropped me off at Bee’s house from where we proceeded to her cousins. The bride was getting her makeup done when we arrived at 4.30 pm. The program was scheduled for 5.00pm but ‘African time’ ruined everything. The people that were to convey us to the venue arrived few minutes past five. There was a sort of chaos as the bride was running very late so the cars started conveying people so as to save time. In the whole midst of the chaos, Bee got me into a car because she had to stay back with the bride. I had no problem with that and I got into the back of the red 406 without a second thought. The moment the cars got on the road, I lost my calm. The cars drove in a convoy. I really thought the drivers would be as responsible as they looked despite their young appearance. It was the most dangerously reckless ride of my life! The other passengers in the car with me seemed to have been enjoying the ride. I still wonder if they care about their lives or maybe they were robots. I don’t know how any normal person could smile through that ride. The car kept swerving in between the other cars on the road. Luckily, I do not know much people in Kaduna because it would have been embarrassing if someone I knew saw me in that car. I exhausted every single prayer I know by heart in less than ten minutes. While I was busy begging for mercy, an awful smell caught my attention. The insanely reckless driver was smoking something I don’t know on the highway at top speed! I never knew I would make it out of that car alive until I saw the sign board of the park. Words cannot describe the relief that ran through my veins as the car pulled over. The so called thirty minutes’ drive took us only fifteen minutes. It took a few minutes before I took in the well decorated space. The park was not very big but the decorations highlighted the place. The chairs were arranged in a circle around the stage. The chairs were covered in a white cloth with a red ribbon. Bilkisu arrived a few minutes later in the same car as the bride.
Bee came to find me immediately after they arrived. ”Haneem, I am so so sorry, I did not know that the drivers were reckless”
“Come on, it’s not your fault. I’m just glad we arrived safely.”
“I promise you a careful driver when we will return and we will ride together.”
“That is such a relief!”
The program started at seven after Maghrib prayer. The Bride wore a white flowing gown with a red head gear and clutch. The groom wore a blue shirt on white jeans. The event turned out to be very interesting. The bride and groom danced. Their friends and family joined them. There were series of games played based on how well the couple knew each other. Everything was going well until a noticed a group of people behind the chairs. That type of dangerous looking youths that are obviously on drugs. They had formed another circle behind the chairs, some in groups of twos or threes each puffing a cigarette. Bee came right at that moment and sat next to me.
“Hanini, have you eaten?”
“Yes, Bee look at those people behind us.”
“Oh my God! I cannot believe it,” Bee exclaimed.
“Wallahi, they are scaring the crap out of me,” I said.
“I’m so sorry about this Haneem. It doesn’t seem like they are going to round up the program anytime soon, but I have an idea.”
“What idea?”
“I’ll find you a body guard”
“What?”
“Hold on.” Bee dialed a number on her phone.
“Who was that?” I eyed her suspiciously.
She replied with a smile. A few minutes later a tall dark skinned guy appeared before us. I could not help but shake my head.
“What’s up?” the guy said in a deep voice.
“Meet my friend, Haneem.” Bee said with a smile.
“I cant believe this,” I whispered.
“Hi Haneem, I’m Muktar”
Ive heard Bilkisu mention Muktar several times although ive never met him. He is her immediate older brother and her favorite.
“Hello, it’s nice to meet you!”
“Please keep my friend company; those guys are starting to scare her.”
Muktar looked behind the chairs before replying. “It’s the least I can do; it’s hard to keep the bad boys away from such events.”
“Thanks bro!” Bee said cheerfully. She got up and gestured to him to sit next to me.
“You can kill me later,” she whispered in to my ears before walking away.
“She’s trying to put you in an awkward situation,” Muktar said immediately after sitting down.
“It’s obvious isn’t it?”
“Maybe or maybe I just know her really well but guess what.”
“What?”
“The best revenge is not to get in to an awkward situation”
“That’s a great idea!” I replied but I was wondering how I could do that.
“I can tell you’re very uncomfortable being here so here is the deal. I will try my very best to distract you from them until I can get you out of here, is that okay?”
“That is so kind of you!”
The twenty minute conversation was the best part of my day. It was the most random conversation ever but Muktar successfully distracted me. We talked about; Kaduna, Books, School and a lot more. Frankly most of it was playing back in my head while we drove back to town.
“So what do you think of my friend?” Bee asked. She was seated at the passenger seat next to her Muktar. We left the venue twenty five minutes after nine. I was so glad that the drive back to town was a whole lot more safe.
“Try that prank with someone who doesn’t know you well enough,” Muktar replied.
It was so amusing seeing how well he knew Bee and her tricks. It had been a long day and adventurous day although it was not all that bad; I was so relieved when the car pulled over at my cousins’ house.
Sunday, 13 December 2015
Monday, 9 November 2015
INSPIRATIONAL MONDAY
‘Someone else is praying for the things you take for granted.’
In our daily busy minds, we find ourselves so caught up in getting more that we forget to appreciate that which we already have. Most of us, me included take the important things for granted. We complain, make a fuss and even do unspeakable things in our quest to get more. Ambition is good really but ambition if not controlled can have devastating aftermaths. We must find time in our busy minds to be grateful for the little big things. Someone out there is dying to have half of what you already have. Maybe most of us are not opportune to meet people like that but believe me they do exist. While you are at war with your parents over their refusal to get you an iphone 6 someone out there just wants a roof over their heads. While you are planning to buy a new shade of lipstick, someone somewhere just wants water to quench their thirst. Next time you are blinded by your heart to throw a fit over unimportant things, do well to remind yourself that you have the basic comfort in life; you have all and more of another child’s dream. Be grateful, raise up your hands and say a thankful prayer.
However, I am not discouraging you from wanting things, no. It is very normal for us to want things. I am just reminding you not to be blinded by that want and remember to see the beauty in simple things. Have a wonderful day! xx
In our daily busy minds, we find ourselves so caught up in getting more that we forget to appreciate that which we already have. Most of us, me included take the important things for granted. We complain, make a fuss and even do unspeakable things in our quest to get more. Ambition is good really but ambition if not controlled can have devastating aftermaths. We must find time in our busy minds to be grateful for the little big things. Someone out there is dying to have half of what you already have. Maybe most of us are not opportune to meet people like that but believe me they do exist. While you are at war with your parents over their refusal to get you an iphone 6 someone out there just wants a roof over their heads. While you are planning to buy a new shade of lipstick, someone somewhere just wants water to quench their thirst. Next time you are blinded by your heart to throw a fit over unimportant things, do well to remind yourself that you have the basic comfort in life; you have all and more of another child’s dream. Be grateful, raise up your hands and say a thankful prayer.
However, I am not discouraging you from wanting things, no. It is very normal for us to want things. I am just reminding you not to be blinded by that want and remember to see the beauty in simple things. Have a wonderful day! xx
Sunday, 8 November 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #12: A beautiful life
The exams hit fast. Time passed by so quickly that I had written five out of all the six courses I offer. I hate exams! I’ve always hated it. I can manage the stress from school but exams put me through a different kind of stress. I spend my days and nights reading. The more I read the more I feel like my brain is empty. Thankfully my last paper was only few days away. I desperately wanted to get away from school and relax for a while. I suggested it to my friends but they all had an excuse, I decided to go to the park alone. I hate going out alone but perhaps it was better considering how drained I was feeling.
The closest thing we have to a park in Minna is the ‘Independence garden.’ The garden is way too small and mostly crowded. It’s the only option I have whenever I need nature’s healing. As much as I really hate the limited getaway options Minna (mx) offers me, I do love my birth city!
Luckily the garden was not as crowded as usual. I found my spot-I had discovered it a few years ago- unoccupied. There were people mostly in groups scattered around the small space. The fresh air and the scent of fresh flowers convinced me that I had made the right choice. I sat on the wooden chair in the shade under a big tree. The scents from the flowers immediately worked their magic on me. It was like every little sweet scent took away a fraction of my stress. A much more pleasant thing brought me back from my reverie. A couple were having a picnic under a tree similar to the one I was under. It was such a sight to behold even from a distance. The man dressed simply in a white kaftan while his date wore a beautiful black abaya. They both looked so young and very much in love. My hopeless romantic side saw much more than the basket of fruits on their mats. Alas! My new found entertainment was short lived. The couples started packing up and before I knew it they were up on their feet. It felt kind of disappointing although I was not actually going to stare at them all day. I shifted my attention back to tree under which I sat and immediately drifted off in another one of my endless reveries. I was dreaming about a bed made of roses each with its unique and healing scent, located in the middle of large room with walls that looked like forest vegetation
Assalamu alaikum!” a small voice said.
I looked away from the tree only to see someone I least expected. A tall black beauty looked much more beautiful at close range.
“Wa alaikumu salam,” I replied.
“Is it okay if I take a seat near you?” she asked courteously.
“Yes please,” I beckoned her to seat. She replied with the most beautiful smile revealing two adorable dimples.
“You seemed so carried away when I approached you or are you just that fascinated by the trees?”
“You could say that, but it’s more of a stress reliever right now,” I answered.
“Let me guess,” she said eagerly. “Exam stress?”
“Yes!”
“I knew it! I’m so sorry dear, how are you holding up?” she asked kindly.
“Honestly its killing me!” I conceded.
“Oww! Do the trees help?”
“It actually helps a lot. Mother nature is my best stress reliever.”
“I’m so sorry I interrupted you!” she said apologetically.
“Oh no please don’t apologize! It’s a whole lot more relaxing with company. I’m Haneem by the way and you are?”
“All that noise without introducing myself,” she whispered. “I’m Fawza. Are you a student of FUT?” she inquired.
“Yes, second year, I’m studying microbiology.”
“Ah! I studied sociology in Base University Abuja,” she responded.
“You’re done already?”
“Yes! A lot of people give me that response when I tell them. I finished last year,” Fawza explained.
“It’s just that you look so young. It’s rather impressive!” I acknowledged.
“So do you! Trust me you’ll be done before you know it,” Fawza said cheerfully.
“How old are you Haneem?” Fawza inquired.
“I’ll be nineteen in a few days,” I answered excitedly.
“Really? Well I got married when I was your age. I will be twenty-one in November,” she announced.
“O my God! You’re married!”
“Ah yes! I’m familiar with that reaction also! Don’t tell me you think I’m too young for marriage!” Fawza joked.
“No,not at all! I think it’s beautiful!”
“Aww! That is so nice of you to say!” Fawza beamed.
“I noticed you earlier but I though it was just a date. I had no idea you were married. Most married couples I know don’t really go on dates,” I said.
She smiled. “Here comes the shocker... I gave birth six months ago!” she said excitedly as she showed me a picture on her iphone.
It was a picture of two identical newborn babies each covered in fluffy pink skirt on a pure white blanket. They looked so adorable.
“Ya salam! Fawza you had twins! They are so cute Masha Allah!” I said ecstatically.
“Aww! Thank you dear! Saima and Suhaima really appreciate it. You are such a nice person; I would love to be your friend!” Fawza declared.
“Are you kidding me? I would really like that!” I stated. “Your life looks so perfect to me!” I added.
“Don’t be deceived. There are good days and bad days but Alhamdulillah! Fuad is a wonderful husband and my mother-in-law is so sweet, she does things like taking care of the twins while I go on a picnic,” Fawza grinned.
“Waw!”
“Well, we sort of snuck out!” Fawza said with a wink.
Fawza got a call on her phone. It sounded like she was about to leave.
“I have to leave now,” she said with a frown.”Fuad is waiting for me outside the park. I had a super great time with you Haneem!” Fawza stated with a smile.
We exchanged numbers and said our final good bye as she headed towards the gate. It really wasn’t a mistake coming to the park that day. Mother Nature plus Fawza did me a whole lot of good.
P.S: I would love to hear from you, please do drop your comments. You can also send your suggestions and contributions to meenahtu99@gmail.com. Thank you!
The closest thing we have to a park in Minna is the ‘Independence garden.’ The garden is way too small and mostly crowded. It’s the only option I have whenever I need nature’s healing. As much as I really hate the limited getaway options Minna (mx) offers me, I do love my birth city!
Luckily the garden was not as crowded as usual. I found my spot-I had discovered it a few years ago- unoccupied. There were people mostly in groups scattered around the small space. The fresh air and the scent of fresh flowers convinced me that I had made the right choice. I sat on the wooden chair in the shade under a big tree. The scents from the flowers immediately worked their magic on me. It was like every little sweet scent took away a fraction of my stress. A much more pleasant thing brought me back from my reverie. A couple were having a picnic under a tree similar to the one I was under. It was such a sight to behold even from a distance. The man dressed simply in a white kaftan while his date wore a beautiful black abaya. They both looked so young and very much in love. My hopeless romantic side saw much more than the basket of fruits on their mats. Alas! My new found entertainment was short lived. The couples started packing up and before I knew it they were up on their feet. It felt kind of disappointing although I was not actually going to stare at them all day. I shifted my attention back to tree under which I sat and immediately drifted off in another one of my endless reveries. I was dreaming about a bed made of roses each with its unique and healing scent, located in the middle of large room with walls that looked like forest vegetation
Assalamu alaikum!” a small voice said.
I looked away from the tree only to see someone I least expected. A tall black beauty looked much more beautiful at close range.
“Wa alaikumu salam,” I replied.
“Is it okay if I take a seat near you?” she asked courteously.
“Yes please,” I beckoned her to seat. She replied with the most beautiful smile revealing two adorable dimples.
“You seemed so carried away when I approached you or are you just that fascinated by the trees?”
“You could say that, but it’s more of a stress reliever right now,” I answered.
“Let me guess,” she said eagerly. “Exam stress?”
“Yes!”
“I knew it! I’m so sorry dear, how are you holding up?” she asked kindly.
“Honestly its killing me!” I conceded.
“Oww! Do the trees help?”
“It actually helps a lot. Mother nature is my best stress reliever.”
“I’m so sorry I interrupted you!” she said apologetically.
“Oh no please don’t apologize! It’s a whole lot more relaxing with company. I’m Haneem by the way and you are?”
“All that noise without introducing myself,” she whispered. “I’m Fawza. Are you a student of FUT?” she inquired.
“Yes, second year, I’m studying microbiology.”
“Ah! I studied sociology in Base University Abuja,” she responded.
“You’re done already?”
“Yes! A lot of people give me that response when I tell them. I finished last year,” Fawza explained.
“It’s just that you look so young. It’s rather impressive!” I acknowledged.
“So do you! Trust me you’ll be done before you know it,” Fawza said cheerfully.
“How old are you Haneem?” Fawza inquired.
“I’ll be nineteen in a few days,” I answered excitedly.
“Really? Well I got married when I was your age. I will be twenty-one in November,” she announced.
“O my God! You’re married!”
“Ah yes! I’m familiar with that reaction also! Don’t tell me you think I’m too young for marriage!” Fawza joked.
“No,not at all! I think it’s beautiful!”
“Aww! That is so nice of you to say!” Fawza beamed.
“I noticed you earlier but I though it was just a date. I had no idea you were married. Most married couples I know don’t really go on dates,” I said.
She smiled. “Here comes the shocker... I gave birth six months ago!” she said excitedly as she showed me a picture on her iphone.
It was a picture of two identical newborn babies each covered in fluffy pink skirt on a pure white blanket. They looked so adorable.
“Ya salam! Fawza you had twins! They are so cute Masha Allah!” I said ecstatically.
“Aww! Thank you dear! Saima and Suhaima really appreciate it. You are such a nice person; I would love to be your friend!” Fawza declared.
“Are you kidding me? I would really like that!” I stated. “Your life looks so perfect to me!” I added.
“Don’t be deceived. There are good days and bad days but Alhamdulillah! Fuad is a wonderful husband and my mother-in-law is so sweet, she does things like taking care of the twins while I go on a picnic,” Fawza grinned.
“Waw!”
“Well, we sort of snuck out!” Fawza said with a wink.
Fawza got a call on her phone. It sounded like she was about to leave.
“I have to leave now,” she said with a frown.”Fuad is waiting for me outside the park. I had a super great time with you Haneem!” Fawza stated with a smile.
We exchanged numbers and said our final good bye as she headed towards the gate. It really wasn’t a mistake coming to the park that day. Mother Nature plus Fawza did me a whole lot of good.
P.S: I would love to hear from you, please do drop your comments. You can also send your suggestions and contributions to meenahtu99@gmail.com. Thank you!
Sunday, 1 November 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #11: The lady in red 2
I went for a tutorial in my neighbour’s room right opposite or hostel. Haneefah was a natural organic chemistry ‘guru’. She made everything a whole lot simpler, so I turned to her when it all started to get complicated. We were in the middle of the tutorial when she decided to change show me a textbook that made it much easy to comprehend all that she has been explaining.
My eyes unconsciously followed Haneefah as she opened the door to her locker, a circular shaped glassy object caught my attention. I had definitely sen it before. It was not one of those things you could easily forget. Haneefah froze when she realized that I had seen the shiny thing. She quickly shut the door tight.
“I am sorry to ask but is that what I think it is?” I asked full of surprise. The expression on her face relaxed, she let out a light breath that suggested that she had been holding it for a while.
“I guess I owe you an explanation now since you’ve seen it,” Haneefah said in a low voice.
“I really did not mean to pry it just caught my attention.”
“It’s okay Haneem it’s not like I can hide it forever. It’s the NALISS best dressed award”
I could not believe what I had heard. How did the award get into her locker? Maybe she knows the lady in red or maybe...I refused to let myself believe that Haneefah could have been the one. She is way too ‘Haneefah’ to have been the one. Don’t misunderstand me though because she is breathtakingly beautiful and elegant but even from the little I know of her, she is not in the category of people to attend the awards; and actually showed up so dressed up and wearing layers of makeup. No way! I’m sure she was helping the owner hide it.
“You know ‘the lady in red?’ I carefully questioned.
She smiled that beautiful smile of hers revealing a set of well-arranged white teeth. “I know her because I am her,” Haneefah replied confidently.
It had been a while I cleaned my ears so I thought the ear wax might have started affecting my hearing. I could not hide my surprise anymore.
“I don’t understand” I stuttered. “You are not among the people I expected to be there!” I stated.
“I know,” she said with a smile. But I went there for to prove something.
“You looked so gorgeous in hijab there is no denying that!” I automatically assumed that was her reason.
Yes I wanted to prove that you can still be beautiful and modest but there is another reason behind it. It’s a kind of provocation. I suddenly felt like I need to prove myself.
“To whom?” I asked in shock.
“It’s a long story!” she said with a sigh. “Most of my friends tend to look down on me because of my quietness. At first I just ignored them but it became so unbearable. I knew from then that I had to leave my shell and prove myself.”
“Do they know that you were the lady in red?” I queried.
“Oh no! not yet. I will do the grand reveal later tonight” Haneefah said with a wink.
“I admire your method of proving yourself! Although I think you need to check those you call your ‘friends’. It’s absolutely unfair to look down on you. I mean even if the whole world is to look down on you they should be the ones to stand by you,” I stated.
“You are right my dear. I really do admire you and your friends, its obviously a healthy friendship,” she said in admiration.
“Too healthy!” I replied jokingly.
“Is it okay if I tell my friends ‘the lady in red’ is you?” I asked anxiously.
“yes it’s okay, I can’t hide the truth forever; but just your friends at least for now, let people keep guessing!”
“Good idea!”
Later that day, my friends and I coincidentally met in Afraah’s room. “Ladies guess what!”
“What?” they all chorused in unison.
“I have the hottest, latest gist that everyone has been waiting to hear” I announced cheerfully. But the looks on their faces was not the kind I had expected. It was more like they had heard something unrealistic.
“The latest gist from you!” Bee said as if she had been given a puzzle that had no answer. “Am I the only one who can’t see the connection between the two?” she asked Zahra and Afraah.
“it’s not just you my dear, I don’t know which stunt Haneem is trying to pull but it’s obviously not going to work.” Zahra replied
“O! So you all think I’m playing right?” I queried.
“Dearest Haneem, I intend no offense but you’re usually the last person to hear of any such thing and I’m sure you don’t care for campus gossip,” Afraah said politely.
“Well as God would have it, if have reliable news from reloadable source for the first time in my life!”
“Spill it!” Afraah said anxiously.
“ I know who the lady in red is!” I said and their eyes brightened.
“Are you serious?” Bee asked.
“Who is it?” Zahra asked impatiently.
“Guess!” I requested in an attempt to poke their curiosity.
“Don’t you dare!” Afraah warned.
“Alright! I’m not really good at the suspense game anyway. You will not believe that the glamorous ‘lady in red’ is Haneefah!
They exchanged questioning glances once again.
“Who is Haneefah?” Zahra blurted.
“ our next door neighbour of course”
“I knew that this conversation was a waste of time,” Zahra said dryly.
“Wait...I’m dead serious, its really not a joke know it’s hard to believe but she is the one!” I said defensively.
“If she’s ‘the lady in red’ then I’m snow white and my seven dwarfs will be here any moment from now!” Zahra replied sarcastically.
A part of me knew something like that might happen so I took a picture of the award before leaving Haneefah’s room.
“How did I get a picture of this then” if said I showed them the picture. Bee snatched the phone from me.
“Ya salam! Afraah exclaimed.
“Oh my God! I can’t believe this” Zarah shrieked.
I told them about her reasons for doing the carpet and they were all as amazed as I was earlier.
“I have always thought that Haneefah is cool but this makes her look a hundred times more stunning to me” Afraah said.
“Me too,” Bee added. “She definitely surprised me in a good way” Bee said enthusiastically.
“She is going to be my new BFF, what is she doing with those girls anyway? Stunning ladies should stick together,” Zarah said feigning seriousness.
"Gerrarahia my friend!"I said with a smile.
My eyes unconsciously followed Haneefah as she opened the door to her locker, a circular shaped glassy object caught my attention. I had definitely sen it before. It was not one of those things you could easily forget. Haneefah froze when she realized that I had seen the shiny thing. She quickly shut the door tight.
“I am sorry to ask but is that what I think it is?” I asked full of surprise. The expression on her face relaxed, she let out a light breath that suggested that she had been holding it for a while.
“I guess I owe you an explanation now since you’ve seen it,” Haneefah said in a low voice.
“I really did not mean to pry it just caught my attention.”
“It’s okay Haneem it’s not like I can hide it forever. It’s the NALISS best dressed award”
I could not believe what I had heard. How did the award get into her locker? Maybe she knows the lady in red or maybe...I refused to let myself believe that Haneefah could have been the one. She is way too ‘Haneefah’ to have been the one. Don’t misunderstand me though because she is breathtakingly beautiful and elegant but even from the little I know of her, she is not in the category of people to attend the awards; and actually showed up so dressed up and wearing layers of makeup. No way! I’m sure she was helping the owner hide it.
“You know ‘the lady in red?’ I carefully questioned.
She smiled that beautiful smile of hers revealing a set of well-arranged white teeth. “I know her because I am her,” Haneefah replied confidently.
It had been a while I cleaned my ears so I thought the ear wax might have started affecting my hearing. I could not hide my surprise anymore.
“I don’t understand” I stuttered. “You are not among the people I expected to be there!” I stated.
“I know,” she said with a smile. But I went there for to prove something.
“You looked so gorgeous in hijab there is no denying that!” I automatically assumed that was her reason.
Yes I wanted to prove that you can still be beautiful and modest but there is another reason behind it. It’s a kind of provocation. I suddenly felt like I need to prove myself.
“To whom?” I asked in shock.
“It’s a long story!” she said with a sigh. “Most of my friends tend to look down on me because of my quietness. At first I just ignored them but it became so unbearable. I knew from then that I had to leave my shell and prove myself.”
“Do they know that you were the lady in red?” I queried.
“Oh no! not yet. I will do the grand reveal later tonight” Haneefah said with a wink.
“I admire your method of proving yourself! Although I think you need to check those you call your ‘friends’. It’s absolutely unfair to look down on you. I mean even if the whole world is to look down on you they should be the ones to stand by you,” I stated.
“You are right my dear. I really do admire you and your friends, its obviously a healthy friendship,” she said in admiration.
“Too healthy!” I replied jokingly.
“Is it okay if I tell my friends ‘the lady in red’ is you?” I asked anxiously.
“yes it’s okay, I can’t hide the truth forever; but just your friends at least for now, let people keep guessing!”
“Good idea!”
Later that day, my friends and I coincidentally met in Afraah’s room. “Ladies guess what!”
“What?” they all chorused in unison.
“I have the hottest, latest gist that everyone has been waiting to hear” I announced cheerfully. But the looks on their faces was not the kind I had expected. It was more like they had heard something unrealistic.
“The latest gist from you!” Bee said as if she had been given a puzzle that had no answer. “Am I the only one who can’t see the connection between the two?” she asked Zahra and Afraah.
“it’s not just you my dear, I don’t know which stunt Haneem is trying to pull but it’s obviously not going to work.” Zahra replied
“O! So you all think I’m playing right?” I queried.
“Dearest Haneem, I intend no offense but you’re usually the last person to hear of any such thing and I’m sure you don’t care for campus gossip,” Afraah said politely.
“Well as God would have it, if have reliable news from reloadable source for the first time in my life!”
“Spill it!” Afraah said anxiously.
“ I know who the lady in red is!” I said and their eyes brightened.
“Are you serious?” Bee asked.
“Who is it?” Zahra asked impatiently.
“Guess!” I requested in an attempt to poke their curiosity.
“Don’t you dare!” Afraah warned.
“Alright! I’m not really good at the suspense game anyway. You will not believe that the glamorous ‘lady in red’ is Haneefah!
They exchanged questioning glances once again.
“Who is Haneefah?” Zahra blurted.
“ our next door neighbour of course”
“I knew that this conversation was a waste of time,” Zahra said dryly.
“Wait...I’m dead serious, its really not a joke know it’s hard to believe but she is the one!” I said defensively.
“If she’s ‘the lady in red’ then I’m snow white and my seven dwarfs will be here any moment from now!” Zahra replied sarcastically.
A part of me knew something like that might happen so I took a picture of the award before leaving Haneefah’s room.
“How did I get a picture of this then” if said I showed them the picture. Bee snatched the phone from me.
“Ya salam! Afraah exclaimed.
“Oh my God! I can’t believe this” Zarah shrieked.
I told them about her reasons for doing the carpet and they were all as amazed as I was earlier.
“I have always thought that Haneefah is cool but this makes her look a hundred times more stunning to me” Afraah said.
“Me too,” Bee added. “She definitely surprised me in a good way” Bee said enthusiastically.
“She is going to be my new BFF, what is she doing with those girls anyway? Stunning ladies should stick together,” Zarah said feigning seriousness.
"Gerrarahia my friend!"I said with a smile.
Monday, 12 October 2015
Birthday diary
Twelfth October has always felt special for as long as I can remember. It has never felt so challenging. I feel like I’m at crossroads this year. A few days ago, I wished I could slow down time. I guess I made eighteen a sort of safe haven and I wanted to stay there. Birthdays are special days, with the cakes and all the colours but something feels different to me this year, I guess it’s that wave of adulthood coming at me with top speed. I hate the idea of being an adult but I’m taking it step by step, gradually learning to embrace it.
I’ve always seen so much beauty in ‘nineteen’ and I still do. It’s such a young and beautiful age to start living your dreams. I’ve watched people open businesses and win awards at nineteen and some even before it. Although many people believe it is too young, I’ve seen ladies willingly marry at nineteen and thought, “Wow, that’s such a young and good age-IN MY OPINION- to start your life”. There was a ruckus recently on the internet because of an eighteen year olds marriage. It’s actually ironical, in this era where immorality is viewed as normal, moral values are starting to appear immoral which just plain absurd to the northern Nigerian. Anyway that is not the point I’m trying to make here. This new age has always felt so unique to me and now that it’s here feel conflicted.
I’ve celebrated most of my birthdays with cakes and lots of pictures. However this year it’s different. I’m celebrating it with a thousand thoughts running through my mind, a thousand things going on in my mind. I almost can’t believe the figure! There were quite a number of things I thought I would’ve achieved by now. I guess I procrastinated my way here. Once upon a time I did not understand what it meant to be ‘finding oneself’. Now today, those words are the best ones I can possibly think of. I would describe myself as a young lady finding herself, trying to make a name for herself. The older I got the more I’ve wanted to be my own person, to be described by not just other peoples achievements but by my own too. A good example is people saying,”Hey, that’s Amina, the daughter of the chairman” I would prefer to hear “That’s Amina; the chairman’s daughter and she’s a photographer”. Most people won’t even get the difference in the sentences but I guess that’s what makes us different and unique. Some people live their whole lives dreamless, there is nothing they want to achieve, nothing they want to be, they just want to earn a living and that’s all. Infact if you bother them with your dreams they will just think you are being childish or jobless or both. I wonder if it’s the society we live in that kills our ability to dream. A great number of people have failed to achieve their dreams; I’ve personally witnessed many people’s dreams get shattered by JAMB. Maybe our society is filled with heartbroken people who have given up mom dreams. I can’t say I blame them though...but I’m a dreamer, all I do is dream cant not dream, it’ll kill my soul. After all my dreams are growing alongside my age. My eyes have opened to things I did not see before; my thoughts have reached the less privileged, the sick people, the sickle cell warriors, and the internally displaced persons. These are people suffering silently while most of us go about our lives peacefully. We even complain about the nothing and take the easy things for granted. The things we think are easy that are not actually easy to come by for others; peace of mind, a home, good health.
Today; right here right now, I’m still dreaming. I am dreaming of becoming a better person while chasing my dreams at a steady slow pace. I came across some unfinished manuscripts of mine a week ago. I had actually forgotten about most of them. I’ve been trying to write a book since I was nine; so far I have made seven attempts. I’m about to start my eighth attempt which will be more than just an attempt in shaa Allah (God willing). I have a wide range of interests; maybe it’s responsible for the constant chaos in my head. I wonder if its normal, most of them I picked interest in along the way.
I recently fell in love with freezing time; capturing memories, moments, the smiles, the tears and so much more.
Irrespective of all the perks of growing up, I am looking forward to giving back to the community. I might not know how yet, but hopefully I have a lot of time to figure out how to bring smiles to the faces of others or simply giving them my smile even if it’s just for a moment. I am looking forward to making each day and each step count. I look forward to pursuing my vast dreams genuinely.
I am publicly setting goals I would love to achieve if not fully at least start to achieve within this coming year.
I have no idea what your take is on my musings; if it’s inspiring or confusing or just annoying (I hope not!) I am glad you read a little piece of the drama going on in my head. I would love to hear your comments and suggestion on this blog post and on the previous one. Please send your comments, suggestions and observations to meenahtu99@gmail.com. Thanks for reading!
I’ve always seen so much beauty in ‘nineteen’ and I still do. It’s such a young and beautiful age to start living your dreams. I’ve watched people open businesses and win awards at nineteen and some even before it. Although many people believe it is too young, I’ve seen ladies willingly marry at nineteen and thought, “Wow, that’s such a young and good age-IN MY OPINION- to start your life”. There was a ruckus recently on the internet because of an eighteen year olds marriage. It’s actually ironical, in this era where immorality is viewed as normal, moral values are starting to appear immoral which just plain absurd to the northern Nigerian. Anyway that is not the point I’m trying to make here. This new age has always felt so unique to me and now that it’s here feel conflicted.
I’ve celebrated most of my birthdays with cakes and lots of pictures. However this year it’s different. I’m celebrating it with a thousand thoughts running through my mind, a thousand things going on in my mind. I almost can’t believe the figure! There were quite a number of things I thought I would’ve achieved by now. I guess I procrastinated my way here. Once upon a time I did not understand what it meant to be ‘finding oneself’. Now today, those words are the best ones I can possibly think of. I would describe myself as a young lady finding herself, trying to make a name for herself. The older I got the more I’ve wanted to be my own person, to be described by not just other peoples achievements but by my own too. A good example is people saying,”Hey, that’s Amina, the daughter of the chairman” I would prefer to hear “That’s Amina; the chairman’s daughter and she’s a photographer”. Most people won’t even get the difference in the sentences but I guess that’s what makes us different and unique. Some people live their whole lives dreamless, there is nothing they want to achieve, nothing they want to be, they just want to earn a living and that’s all. Infact if you bother them with your dreams they will just think you are being childish or jobless or both. I wonder if it’s the society we live in that kills our ability to dream. A great number of people have failed to achieve their dreams; I’ve personally witnessed many people’s dreams get shattered by JAMB. Maybe our society is filled with heartbroken people who have given up mom dreams. I can’t say I blame them though...but I’m a dreamer, all I do is dream cant not dream, it’ll kill my soul. After all my dreams are growing alongside my age. My eyes have opened to things I did not see before; my thoughts have reached the less privileged, the sick people, the sickle cell warriors, and the internally displaced persons. These are people suffering silently while most of us go about our lives peacefully. We even complain about the nothing and take the easy things for granted. The things we think are easy that are not actually easy to come by for others; peace of mind, a home, good health.
Today; right here right now, I’m still dreaming. I am dreaming of becoming a better person while chasing my dreams at a steady slow pace. I came across some unfinished manuscripts of mine a week ago. I had actually forgotten about most of them. I’ve been trying to write a book since I was nine; so far I have made seven attempts. I’m about to start my eighth attempt which will be more than just an attempt in shaa Allah (God willing). I have a wide range of interests; maybe it’s responsible for the constant chaos in my head. I wonder if its normal, most of them I picked interest in along the way.
I recently fell in love with freezing time; capturing memories, moments, the smiles, the tears and so much more.
Irrespective of all the perks of growing up, I am looking forward to giving back to the community. I might not know how yet, but hopefully I have a lot of time to figure out how to bring smiles to the faces of others or simply giving them my smile even if it’s just for a moment. I am looking forward to making each day and each step count. I look forward to pursuing my vast dreams genuinely.
I am publicly setting goals I would love to achieve if not fully at least start to achieve within this coming year.
I have no idea what your take is on my musings; if it’s inspiring or confusing or just annoying (I hope not!) I am glad you read a little piece of the drama going on in my head. I would love to hear your comments and suggestion on this blog post and on the previous one. Please send your comments, suggestions and observations to meenahtu99@gmail.com. Thanks for reading!
Sunday, 16 August 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #10: The lady in red
"Haneem will you hurry up!" Zahra growled.
She was seated on the chair in a corner of our little room impatiently waiting for me to get dressed. She looked beautiful in her flowing gown except for the ugly look on her face.
"Zahra can I back out now? I really don't feel like going," I said as I put the final touch on my light make-up.
"Are you high? There is no such thing as backing out! Your introversion is getting you nowhere tonight so suck it up!" Zahra barked.
"If you let me skip this,I'll attend all other programmes you want ok?" I said persuasively.
An object landed on my hip-as I was buckling my heels- in response to my last plea.
" Did you bring those throw pillows to the hostel so you can hit me with them? " I snapped.
"Yes, that's the ulterior motive behind it you weirdo! You know I won't take you to just any rugged place and we also have a nomination!"
"I'm sorry Zahra,that was not what I meant," I apologized.
"Good,Now let's go!" Zahra ordered.
We met up with Afraah and Bilkisu in front of their hostel. Afraah's cousin,Amir had agreed to pick us up from the hostel to the venue which is only 10minutes drive.
We arrived the venue fifteen minutes past eight(pm). The turn out was surprising-probably to me alone- NALISS(National association of life science students) awards is the most anticipated award night this semester second only to the SUG award night.
Zahra and I skipped the red carpet while Afraah and Bilkisu signed up for it.
We bought VIP tickets and secured a table with a very good view of the stage. The show started about 15 minutes later with the red carpet models or whatever they called them.
The models each walked on the red carpet,showed off their clothes and posed for the camera before taking a seat. We cheered loudest for Afraah and Bilkisu who did the carpet together and then joined us on the table.
The next model took every ones breath away. She was dressed in red long sleeve flowing gown,embellished with swarovski crystals. She paired it with silver coloured hijab adorned with a head piece. Surprisingly, her eyes were covered by a shiny black mask. The lady was by far the most outstanding of all the red carpet models!
"Who the hell is that?" Bilkisu blurted.
"You took the words right out of my mouth!" Zahra said.
"I know this is not a masked party but the mystery spiced up the look" I said admiringly.
"You have no idea!"Afraah exclaimed.
The lady's two minute display was one of the most interesting part of the NALISS award night. It was not just her perfect look,it was the grace with which she walked and her natural yet classy pose in front of the camera.
The show went on for an hour and a half with performances from upcoming artistes and comedians before the main awards started.
"I was really hoping to win the best dressed award," Bilkisu muttered.
"Aww sweetie! You can try again next year!" Afraah replied sympathetically.
"You really look gorgeous Bee! But I have to agree with Afraah,"Zahra added.
The winners of the nominations made earlier were first announced before the red carpet participants.
I was very surprised when the MC, David(The president as the school of life science) called out our names as the winners of the best female clique! Although it felt good to win,I felt even better when the mysterious 'lady in red' won the best dressed. According to David,she had withheld her name and went by 'lady in red.'
We left the venue -with Amir- quarter after 10.
"I really want to know who the lady in red is," Afraah declared.
"We all want to know,"Bilkisu said.
"I bet we will find out sooner or later!" I added.
She was seated on the chair in a corner of our little room impatiently waiting for me to get dressed. She looked beautiful in her flowing gown except for the ugly look on her face.
"Zahra can I back out now? I really don't feel like going," I said as I put the final touch on my light make-up.
"Are you high? There is no such thing as backing out! Your introversion is getting you nowhere tonight so suck it up!" Zahra barked.
"If you let me skip this,I'll attend all other programmes you want ok?" I said persuasively.
An object landed on my hip-as I was buckling my heels- in response to my last plea.
" Did you bring those throw pillows to the hostel so you can hit me with them? " I snapped.
"Yes, that's the ulterior motive behind it you weirdo! You know I won't take you to just any rugged place and we also have a nomination!"
"I'm sorry Zahra,that was not what I meant," I apologized.
"Good,Now let's go!" Zahra ordered.
We met up with Afraah and Bilkisu in front of their hostel. Afraah's cousin,Amir had agreed to pick us up from the hostel to the venue which is only 10minutes drive.
We arrived the venue fifteen minutes past eight(pm). The turn out was surprising-probably to me alone- NALISS(National association of life science students) awards is the most anticipated award night this semester second only to the SUG award night.
Zahra and I skipped the red carpet while Afraah and Bilkisu signed up for it.
We bought VIP tickets and secured a table with a very good view of the stage. The show started about 15 minutes later with the red carpet models or whatever they called them.
The models each walked on the red carpet,showed off their clothes and posed for the camera before taking a seat. We cheered loudest for Afraah and Bilkisu who did the carpet together and then joined us on the table.
The next model took every ones breath away. She was dressed in red long sleeve flowing gown,embellished with swarovski crystals. She paired it with silver coloured hijab adorned with a head piece. Surprisingly, her eyes were covered by a shiny black mask. The lady was by far the most outstanding of all the red carpet models!
"Who the hell is that?" Bilkisu blurted.
"You took the words right out of my mouth!" Zahra said.
"I know this is not a masked party but the mystery spiced up the look" I said admiringly.
"You have no idea!"Afraah exclaimed.
The lady's two minute display was one of the most interesting part of the NALISS award night. It was not just her perfect look,it was the grace with which she walked and her natural yet classy pose in front of the camera.
The show went on for an hour and a half with performances from upcoming artistes and comedians before the main awards started.
"I was really hoping to win the best dressed award," Bilkisu muttered.
"Aww sweetie! You can try again next year!" Afraah replied sympathetically.
"You really look gorgeous Bee! But I have to agree with Afraah,"Zahra added.
The winners of the nominations made earlier were first announced before the red carpet participants.
I was very surprised when the MC, David(The president as the school of life science) called out our names as the winners of the best female clique! Although it felt good to win,I felt even better when the mysterious 'lady in red' won the best dressed. According to David,she had withheld her name and went by 'lady in red.'
We left the venue -with Amir- quarter after 10.
"I really want to know who the lady in red is," Afraah declared.
"We all want to know,"Bilkisu said.
"I bet we will find out sooner or later!" I added.
Sunday, 9 August 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #9: His grand obsession 2
"Bee you wanted to tell us about your encounter with that crazy man?" Afraah asked.
"Hmm,my dear I took nini's advice and I completely ignored him for 5 days but you won't believe how he reacted," Bilkisu replied.
"What happened?"Zahra asked.
"The road was so empty as I was coming back from the mini shop near our hostel on thursday evening,when a strong hand suddenly pulled me from behind. I was so frightened by the force and even more scared when I saw him," Bilkisu narrated.
"Are you kidding me?" Afraah asked.
"Nope. He held my wrist tightly and started uttering some angry and threatening words that I could not fully comprehend. A car pulled over close to us,I was about to scream for help when I saw Haneem in the passenger seat. Luckily, she understood what was going on and worked her magic," Bilkisu concluded with a smile.
Afraah and Zarah exchanged questioning glances.
"You were in the market around that time,how did you save the day?" Zahra queried.
"I had just got out of the car when I ran into an old friend who I had not seen in years. He..."
"Ke tsaya!(hey stop) which old friend?" Zahra inquired.
"Zayyad used to live in my neighbourhood a while ago. He offered me a ride and we caught up on the past years. He informed me that he is in the military now so when I noticed what was happening, I quickly told him what was going on," I explained.
"I wish you girls were there to see what happened. He saved me with just few words,Zayyad is a lifesaver!" Bilkisu said excitedly.
"Waw!" Afraah exclaimed. "I'm glad its over,she added."
"But are you sure he won't come back?" Zahra asked.
"Zayyad collected his number and assured me that he had further warned him to stay away,"I responded.
"That is such a relieve! But Haneem are you sure you two just 'friends'?" Zahra said with a wink.
"I doubt it!" Afraah teased with a smile.
"Hmm,my dear I took nini's advice and I completely ignored him for 5 days but you won't believe how he reacted," Bilkisu replied.
"What happened?"Zahra asked.
"The road was so empty as I was coming back from the mini shop near our hostel on thursday evening,when a strong hand suddenly pulled me from behind. I was so frightened by the force and even more scared when I saw him," Bilkisu narrated.
"Are you kidding me?" Afraah asked.
"Nope. He held my wrist tightly and started uttering some angry and threatening words that I could not fully comprehend. A car pulled over close to us,I was about to scream for help when I saw Haneem in the passenger seat. Luckily, she understood what was going on and worked her magic," Bilkisu concluded with a smile.
Afraah and Zarah exchanged questioning glances.
"You were in the market around that time,how did you save the day?" Zahra queried.
"I had just got out of the car when I ran into an old friend who I had not seen in years. He..."
"Ke tsaya!(hey stop) which old friend?" Zahra inquired.
"Zayyad used to live in my neighbourhood a while ago. He offered me a ride and we caught up on the past years. He informed me that he is in the military now so when I noticed what was happening, I quickly told him what was going on," I explained.
"I wish you girls were there to see what happened. He saved me with just few words,Zayyad is a lifesaver!" Bilkisu said excitedly.
"Waw!" Afraah exclaimed. "I'm glad its over,she added."
"But are you sure he won't come back?" Zahra asked.
"Zayyad collected his number and assured me that he had further warned him to stay away,"I responded.
"That is such a relieve! But Haneem are you sure you two just 'friends'?" Zahra said with a wink.
"I doubt it!" Afraah teased with a smile.
Monday, 3 August 2015
Stay you
Hello there! Here is another rough one encouraging you to stay true to yourself.
"Be yourself,it's the only person worth being"
That is what I tell people
But where I find myself these days,
I feel greatly tempted,
Tempted to be like the rest
To fit in,in peace
Because the constant stares
and the silent judgment
pricks my innocence
But a part of me believes
I was born to stand out
not to fit in
So,I have to stay me
Because really it's the only
me that I've ever known
It's the only me worth being
"Be yourself,it's the only person worth being"
That is what I tell people
But where I find myself these days,
I feel greatly tempted,
Tempted to be like the rest
To fit in,in peace
Because the constant stares
and the silent judgment
pricks my innocence
But a part of me believes
I was born to stand out
not to fit in
So,I have to stay me
Because really it's the only
me that I've ever known
It's the only me worth being
Saturday, 1 August 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #8: His grand obsession
"Bee have you started your ANB222 assignment?" I asked but all I got was silence.
"Bilkisu!" I called bringing her back to the present.
"Huh?" she replied absent mindedly.
"Are you okay?"
"Yup!" she whispered.
"What has you so occupied that you did not even hear me?" I queried.
"Hmmm,my dear I'm in a dilemma!" she announced.
"Subhanallah! What's going on?"
"I've been chased by a very crazy man for the past three months now," Bee confessed.
"How crazy is he?"
"Very crazy I tell you! I thought I could handle him on my own but I don't think so anymore," she conceded.
"Do you mind telling me the crazy things he has done?" I asked carefully.
"He has a wife and a kid but he claims he was forced to marry her and that he has no feelings for her or anyone at all till he met me. I explained to him several times that I'm not interested but he still persisted. At first, it looked like he was going to give up but it's gotten so much worse," Bee whined.
"Na wa o! What else did he do?" I inquired.
"Hmmm,he narrated to me how he blatantly confessed to his wife that he never wanted her and that he told her that he has finally found the one he loves!" Bee replied.
"O my God! I shrieked.
"It has even gotten to the point where he orders her to call me and say hello," Bee whispered.
"You have got to be kidding me!" I exclaimed
"I wish I am. I was so shocked and embarrassed when she called and introduced herself, I could hear the hurt she had tried to conceal to fulfill his wish. I felt like dying!" Bee blurted.
"La! That man is indeed crazy! How can any reasonable person do such a cruel thing to his life partner. He should have found a way to avoid the marriage," I said.
"My dear that's the plight I've found myself in. I don't know what to do," Bee cried.
"Does he come around often?" I asked.
"Yes he does but sometimes I don't meet him," she replied.
"Bee you have to stop meeting him completely! Ignore him and his wife's calls and block them both on Whatsapp," I suggested.
"You do have a point. I was bent on making him see reason," she explained.
"You can't reason with crazy people!" I blurted.
"Gaskiya(true)! I'm going to do exactly what you said!" Bee said with a hopeful smile.
"Bilkisu!" I called bringing her back to the present.
"Huh?" she replied absent mindedly.
"Are you okay?"
"Yup!" she whispered.
"What has you so occupied that you did not even hear me?" I queried.
"Hmmm,my dear I'm in a dilemma!" she announced.
"Subhanallah! What's going on?"
"I've been chased by a very crazy man for the past three months now," Bee confessed.
"How crazy is he?"
"Very crazy I tell you! I thought I could handle him on my own but I don't think so anymore," she conceded.
"Do you mind telling me the crazy things he has done?" I asked carefully.
"He has a wife and a kid but he claims he was forced to marry her and that he has no feelings for her or anyone at all till he met me. I explained to him several times that I'm not interested but he still persisted. At first, it looked like he was going to give up but it's gotten so much worse," Bee whined.
"Na wa o! What else did he do?" I inquired.
"Hmmm,he narrated to me how he blatantly confessed to his wife that he never wanted her and that he told her that he has finally found the one he loves!" Bee replied.
"O my God! I shrieked.
"It has even gotten to the point where he orders her to call me and say hello," Bee whispered.
"You have got to be kidding me!" I exclaimed
"I wish I am. I was so shocked and embarrassed when she called and introduced herself, I could hear the hurt she had tried to conceal to fulfill his wish. I felt like dying!" Bee blurted.
"La! That man is indeed crazy! How can any reasonable person do such a cruel thing to his life partner. He should have found a way to avoid the marriage," I said.
"My dear that's the plight I've found myself in. I don't know what to do," Bee cried.
"Does he come around often?" I asked.
"Yes he does but sometimes I don't meet him," she replied.
"Bee you have to stop meeting him completely! Ignore him and his wife's calls and block them both on Whatsapp," I suggested.
"You do have a point. I was bent on making him see reason," she explained.
"You can't reason with crazy people!" I blurted.
"Gaskiya(true)! I'm going to do exactly what you said!" Bee said with a hopeful smile.
Wednesday, 15 July 2015
THE BEAUTIFUL ONES
Hello there! I've been trying to work on my poetry and I assure you it hasn't been going smooth but here is something I came up with. It was inspired by a couple I saw earlier today.
I saw them for a second
Walking side by side
Just for a second
Moving stride by stride
It was just an ordinary couple
But my eyes saw more
And my heart perceived much more
There was nothing special,really
Yet I had such a beautiful feeling
There was an air of peace around them
That I could not help but admire
They were both young
Young and beautiful
They had so much chemistry
That I for a moment felt lonely
I'm sure they live a simple life
Nothing expensive,nothing extravagant
Now I'm convinced that
those who live simple lives,
live happy lives
It was just a second
Yet they made my day
Long live us!
Long live the beautiful ones!
Have a beautiful night rest!
I saw them for a second
Walking side by side
Just for a second
Moving stride by stride
It was just an ordinary couple
But my eyes saw more
And my heart perceived much more
There was nothing special,really
Yet I had such a beautiful feeling
There was an air of peace around them
That I could not help but admire
They were both young
Young and beautiful
They had so much chemistry
That I for a moment felt lonely
I'm sure they live a simple life
Nothing expensive,nothing extravagant
Now I'm convinced that
those who live simple lives,
live happy lives
It was just a second
Yet they made my day
Long live us!
Long live the beautiful ones!
Have a beautiful night rest!
Tuesday, 14 July 2015
MY PEN AND I
Hello there! Its been a while. I've thought about making this blog post for a while but I haven't been able to write. I think I'm suffering from writers block or something. I've been procrastinating a lot. I still haven't been able to figure out why, so I thought perhaps now is the right time to make this blog post. I want to inspire you and remind myself of why I write.
I started school a little bit late. I was five then. I was so interested in learning that I knew the alphabets and numbers even before I started school. Soon enough I fell in love with reading and my dad got me several story books. It was not until I saw nine years old that I started writing. The first story I wrote was about an orphan. Back then I had read a lot of stories about orphans so I guess that inspired me.
The older I got the more I fell in love with writing fiction. I would mostly write short stories but with time I wanted to do more,like to go further and write a novel. I made my first attempt at writing a novel when I was 12. It was inspired by 'Merlin',a television series about the wizard Merlin who see ed as Prince Arthur's manservant. At a point,I lost interest in it. I made another attempt when I was 14 and I was again unable to finish it. My third attempt was in 2013,which I was able to complete but I have choosen to keep it hidden because I believe its not good enough. All through my struggles,one thing remained unchanged...I still want to write,I still love it and I want to get better.
I started another story last year and I'm still battling to complete but I've been procrastinating. I made up my mind to start a blog so that I could encourage myself to write and also improve my skills. Its been a rewarding experience so far, I've been able to add more stories to 'Haneem's diary' and I'm just exploring my other interests.
I've ways been such a dreamer. My dreams,my goals and aspirations have kept me going. I dream of traveling the world and experience different cultures to experience more of nature and to meet different people.
I strongly believe that my pen can take me to wherever I want. I'm able to create characters and I'm able to live my dreams through my characters. I feel very blessed to have that. I've learned more about myself through writing; I'm able to express myself better,to be different people and to experience life better. I'm fully convinced that writing is a gift from God to me.
When I finished secondary school,I had no particular ambition probably because of the difficulties involved in gaining admission and getting your desired course. I just choose Microbiology and made up my mind to study it. Luckily,I was given the course and I'm presently in my second year! So you can say writing is my one true love.
I love reading too but its sad to admit that I haven't read many books. Its always been one thing or the other. I'm unable to do anything when school is in session,I dedicate my whole attention to school. Another problem is where I live,there is no standard bookshop where I can find the types of books I want to read.
My biggest fan and my biggest supporter is my oldest brother. He had encouraged me right about the time I started writing up to date. He is one more reason I have to keep writing-not that I was ever planning on letting it go.
I don't know if I'm boring you but I actually intend to inspire you. It doesn't have to be writing,it can be so many other things. Make wise use of your talent and let it take you places.
Lesson#1: Discover your talent and never let it go.
Blogging has been fun,I absolutely love it. The purpose I started it is to keep on writing. I've started a new adventure and I've discovered more.
Guess what? I've been blogging with my blackberry because its my only access to the internet. Its not exactly the best option and I've been having challenges but the important part is that I can share my thoughts,my story and my art with the world.
Lesson #2: Don't you dare use what you lack as an excuse,work with what you have.
Lesson#3: Keep dreaming! It helps a lot when you have a goal.
Thanks for reading! Love you all!
I started school a little bit late. I was five then. I was so interested in learning that I knew the alphabets and numbers even before I started school. Soon enough I fell in love with reading and my dad got me several story books. It was not until I saw nine years old that I started writing. The first story I wrote was about an orphan. Back then I had read a lot of stories about orphans so I guess that inspired me.
The older I got the more I fell in love with writing fiction. I would mostly write short stories but with time I wanted to do more,like to go further and write a novel. I made my first attempt at writing a novel when I was 12. It was inspired by 'Merlin',a television series about the wizard Merlin who see ed as Prince Arthur's manservant. At a point,I lost interest in it. I made another attempt when I was 14 and I was again unable to finish it. My third attempt was in 2013,which I was able to complete but I have choosen to keep it hidden because I believe its not good enough. All through my struggles,one thing remained unchanged...I still want to write,I still love it and I want to get better.
I started another story last year and I'm still battling to complete but I've been procrastinating. I made up my mind to start a blog so that I could encourage myself to write and also improve my skills. Its been a rewarding experience so far, I've been able to add more stories to 'Haneem's diary' and I'm just exploring my other interests.
I've ways been such a dreamer. My dreams,my goals and aspirations have kept me going. I dream of traveling the world and experience different cultures to experience more of nature and to meet different people.
I strongly believe that my pen can take me to wherever I want. I'm able to create characters and I'm able to live my dreams through my characters. I feel very blessed to have that. I've learned more about myself through writing; I'm able to express myself better,to be different people and to experience life better. I'm fully convinced that writing is a gift from God to me.
When I finished secondary school,I had no particular ambition probably because of the difficulties involved in gaining admission and getting your desired course. I just choose Microbiology and made up my mind to study it. Luckily,I was given the course and I'm presently in my second year! So you can say writing is my one true love.
I love reading too but its sad to admit that I haven't read many books. Its always been one thing or the other. I'm unable to do anything when school is in session,I dedicate my whole attention to school. Another problem is where I live,there is no standard bookshop where I can find the types of books I want to read.
My biggest fan and my biggest supporter is my oldest brother. He had encouraged me right about the time I started writing up to date. He is one more reason I have to keep writing-not that I was ever planning on letting it go.
I don't know if I'm boring you but I actually intend to inspire you. It doesn't have to be writing,it can be so many other things. Make wise use of your talent and let it take you places.
Lesson#1: Discover your talent and never let it go.
Blogging has been fun,I absolutely love it. The purpose I started it is to keep on writing. I've started a new adventure and I've discovered more.
Guess what? I've been blogging with my blackberry because its my only access to the internet. Its not exactly the best option and I've been having challenges but the important part is that I can share my thoughts,my story and my art with the world.
Lesson #2: Don't you dare use what you lack as an excuse,work with what you have.
Lesson#3: Keep dreaming! It helps a lot when you have a goal.
Thanks for reading! Love you all!
Sunday, 12 July 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #7 :Her calm defense
"Salamu Alaikum!" Afraah said as she walked up to us. She had her phone in one hand and her ear piece in the other.
We were all on a big praying mat outside the masjid(mosque) in a spot we had managed to make ours. We spent most of our time-during Ramadan- there doing religious activities.
"Wa alaikumu salaam," we chorused.
"What's with the long face?" Bilkisu said.
"You have no idea what I just went through!" She said as she sat down
"What could it possibly be?" Zahra said absent mindedly.
"Hmm...I just got scolded!"
"Like seriously?" Zahra blurted.
"Where? How? From who?" I asked.
"On my way here, I had my ear piece plugged in my ears as I quietly strolled here."
"Ehen...then what?" Bee asked eagerly.
"Ali,one of the ustaz from our department came up behind me and said the salam so I removed my ear piece to say a respond to him properly."
"I've been meaning to have a talk with you Afraah" he announced.
"Toh,Today is your lucky day" I said cheerfully. "what is it about?"
"Afraah your way of dressing and manner of conducting yourself is unislamic!"
"Unislamic? How?" I was shocked.
"Even in this holy month,you still hardly wear the hijab and you are still listening to music!" he said sternly.
"All I could do was shake my head!"
"Don't tell me you didn't defend yourself!”I fired.
"I was so shocked that I almost didn't but I know that it would've been foolish so I questioned him"
"Brother Ali,what does the hijab mean to you?"I asked.
"The hijab is a cover for your body to protect your chastity and dignity from the eyes of men" he replied confidently.
"Good! Now tell me where it specifically mentioned that I have to use the traditional hijab most people use?"
"But that is the be..."
"Hold on..."I interrupted. "My veil is obviously not transparent,my clothing is not at all tight and the music...how certain are you that its music?' I queried.
"Most of you young girls who go around using that thing are mostly listening to music!" he accused.
"Ali, I am fasting!" I announced.
"Of course you shoul.."
"Hold on..I AM FASTING," I warned.
It seems like he got the message and he suddenly froze.
"The music you accused me of listening to is Sheiqh Ali Al Huthaify. Its actually amazing how well you've noticed the way I dress and the things I do. Shouldn't you be lowering your gaze?" I paused to get an answer but he remained mute.
"Brother Ali,not every hijabi is a devout muslim,not every one who doesn't wear the traditional hijab is not a hijabi. If you don't understand my hijab that's okay,after all its between me and God,it has nothing to do with you!" I concluded and walked away leaving him there.
"Allahu Akbar! (God is great) our Afraah is becoming tough,If someone else had narrated this to me I would never have believed it!" Zahra said mockingly.
We all laughed.
"I'm glad you defended yourself,some of these so called ustaz cross their boundaries most times," I said.
"I know right," Afraah crooned.
The quiet peace-loving girl was obviously drained by the conversation.
"Maybe the brother is interested in you," Bee said looking serious.
"What do you mean?" Afraah fired.
"He must have been observing you for a while before finally deciding to take a shot at indoctrination," Bee stated still maintaining her feigned serious expression.
"Bilkisu you can stop now,I've had enough of this!" Afraah announced. She reached for the Quran near Zahra and opened to the page she had book marked earlier. She was clearly done talking.
Bee winked at Zahra and I and we all smiled back.
We were all on a big praying mat outside the masjid(mosque) in a spot we had managed to make ours. We spent most of our time-during Ramadan- there doing religious activities.
"Wa alaikumu salaam," we chorused.
"What's with the long face?" Bilkisu said.
"You have no idea what I just went through!" She said as she sat down
"What could it possibly be?" Zahra said absent mindedly.
"Hmm...I just got scolded!"
"Like seriously?" Zahra blurted.
"Where? How? From who?" I asked.
"On my way here, I had my ear piece plugged in my ears as I quietly strolled here."
"Ehen...then what?" Bee asked eagerly.
"Ali,one of the ustaz from our department came up behind me and said the salam so I removed my ear piece to say a respond to him properly."
"I've been meaning to have a talk with you Afraah" he announced.
"Toh,Today is your lucky day" I said cheerfully. "what is it about?"
"Afraah your way of dressing and manner of conducting yourself is unislamic!"
"Unislamic? How?" I was shocked.
"Even in this holy month,you still hardly wear the hijab and you are still listening to music!" he said sternly.
"All I could do was shake my head!"
"Don't tell me you didn't defend yourself!”I fired.
"I was so shocked that I almost didn't but I know that it would've been foolish so I questioned him"
"Brother Ali,what does the hijab mean to you?"I asked.
"The hijab is a cover for your body to protect your chastity and dignity from the eyes of men" he replied confidently.
"Good! Now tell me where it specifically mentioned that I have to use the traditional hijab most people use?"
"But that is the be..."
"Hold on..."I interrupted. "My veil is obviously not transparent,my clothing is not at all tight and the music...how certain are you that its music?' I queried.
"Most of you young girls who go around using that thing are mostly listening to music!" he accused.
"Ali, I am fasting!" I announced.
"Of course you shoul.."
"Hold on..I AM FASTING," I warned.
It seems like he got the message and he suddenly froze.
"The music you accused me of listening to is Sheiqh Ali Al Huthaify. Its actually amazing how well you've noticed the way I dress and the things I do. Shouldn't you be lowering your gaze?" I paused to get an answer but he remained mute.
"Brother Ali,not every hijabi is a devout muslim,not every one who doesn't wear the traditional hijab is not a hijabi. If you don't understand my hijab that's okay,after all its between me and God,it has nothing to do with you!" I concluded and walked away leaving him there.
"Allahu Akbar! (God is great) our Afraah is becoming tough,If someone else had narrated this to me I would never have believed it!" Zahra said mockingly.
We all laughed.
"I'm glad you defended yourself,some of these so called ustaz cross their boundaries most times," I said.
"I know right," Afraah crooned.
The quiet peace-loving girl was obviously drained by the conversation.
"Maybe the brother is interested in you," Bee said looking serious.
"What do you mean?" Afraah fired.
"He must have been observing you for a while before finally deciding to take a shot at indoctrination," Bee stated still maintaining her feigned serious expression.
"Bilkisu you can stop now,I've had enough of this!" Afraah announced. She reached for the Quran near Zahra and opened to the page she had book marked earlier. She was clearly done talking.
Bee winked at Zahra and I and we all smiled back.
Monday, 29 June 2015
Inspirational Monday: Being beautiful
Beauty is all about being yourself. Set yourself free,open your heart and soul and free your mind. Do not conceal your true self because surely there is beauty in it and you must understand that not all eyes can see it. Not all minds can understand it only a few gifted ones.
You need to understand,believe and love yourself. This will help you appreciate your own beauty and uniqueness. Then people's opinion will matter less!
Monday, 18 May 2015
Motivational Monday: Happiness
Happiness is one of the most beautiful things in life. It colours life and makes it worth living. It is an important part of life,like a companion. If you carry it with you,then your whole life will never be gloomy. A happy person enjoys life to its fullest.
Most of us however, depend on other things or people for happiness. We just feel we can never be happy alone. Happiness starts from within,its born inside you and it is up to you to either nurture it or let it wither away. Then we'll end up looking for it elsewhere.
Yes there are people and things who make us happy. This is very natural but happiness resides inside you. It is up to you to set your heart to it till you achieve it. Believe me you'll start to see the beauty in things you had never ever notices before and that will trigger the happiness within you.
Its indeed painful when you lose something that gives you joy. But look around,its a versatile world. There are so many potentials that you have some you aren't even aware of. It'll surely lead you towards greater happiness. All you have to do is make an attempt,try hard to stay happy! Happiness is within you!
Sunday, 17 May 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #6: A problem shared
I was busy folding the clothes that I had washed preparing them for ironing. I had been so consumed by it that I barely noticed that the top was quiet-too quiet than usual.
She was lying quietly on the upper bunk. I paused and turned to face her.
'Zahra are u okay?,' I asked breaking the silence.
'Yeah',she replied absent minded.
'Are you sure?'
'For God's sake leave me alone Haneem', she snapped.
I got the confirmation that I needed. Something was bothering her.
'What is the problem?', I asked gently.
The spring of her bunk made noises as she turned her back on me.
'So you won't discuss it with me right?, I understand,' I said quietly feigning hurt.
'Its 'the one',she said as she turned to face me.
'The one?' My memory retrieved the little I knew of the stranger who had become her friend.
'Nini,I'm in trouble',Zahra blurted.
She dropped down to the ground in one swift move. I cleared away what was left of my clothes to make room for her to sit on my bed.
'Wow! Slowdown,how?' I asked as I sat next to her.
'I've finally met someone I'm willing to be serious about but he is a piece of work darling,I don't know where to start from,' she began.
'Bulbul speak English,its like you're talking in parables.'
Bulbul is Zahra's nickname. I rarely called her by the indian name because it sounds funny to me. I used to wonder if it was gotten from the hausa word for balloon, 'bollon-bollo'-which is impossible.
'He is such a party rider-which I can totally relate to because I used to be one- but the things he does at the party...' She nodded her head in disappointment.
'Wait...he told you the things he does?' I asked in shock.
'Yes',she replied curtly.
'Then he is the honest type but are you sure he was not pulling your legs?' I enquired.
'I'm sure!',She snapped. 'Crazy people like me are not so plenty. Its so rare to find someone who goes to parties and just sits there observing everything, Zahra burst out.
'Well that's true but...'
'Can you believe he drinks?' She interrupted with an expression of disgust on her face.
'Drinks? Drinks what?,' I really didn't want to believe it.
'Alcohol of course!,' Zahra blurted.
'Auzubillah(I seek refuge in Allah)!' I exclaimed.
'In his words, "I never get drunk,I only sip a little just to shut my friends up," she said using air quotes.
'What are his intentions over you?' I asked with keen interest.
'We've had a really good start but I'm so confused right now.' She said sadly.
'Ignore the bad habits and tell me what you think of him as a person,' I questioned.
'I think he is very friendly,caring,thoughtful and you won't believe how educated he is islamically. I think that he is around bad influence,that's why he is struggling,' she confided.
'Bulbul,fix him!' I blurted.
'Fix who? Please Nini,where do I start from? I can't do it,' she announced.
'Yes you can! You're the best person for the job. You've helped me clear most of my confusions,this should be easy!'
'No its not!'
'Yes it is! You just need to remind him. He knows what's right and wrong, a little reminder is all he needs.'
'Haneem,why are you here? Why the hell are you studying MCB(Microbiology)?'
'Why is that suddenly a problem?' I asked confused.
'You should be a psychotherapist,you'll be super good!' Zahra suggested jokingly.
'Oh please...!' I sighed.
'Thank you so much darling!' She said as she hugged me.
'What are friends for?'
She was lying quietly on the upper bunk. I paused and turned to face her.
'Zahra are u okay?,' I asked breaking the silence.
'Yeah',she replied absent minded.
'Are you sure?'
'For God's sake leave me alone Haneem', she snapped.
I got the confirmation that I needed. Something was bothering her.
'What is the problem?', I asked gently.
The spring of her bunk made noises as she turned her back on me.
'So you won't discuss it with me right?, I understand,' I said quietly feigning hurt.
'Its 'the one',she said as she turned to face me.
'The one?' My memory retrieved the little I knew of the stranger who had become her friend.
'Nini,I'm in trouble',Zahra blurted.
She dropped down to the ground in one swift move. I cleared away what was left of my clothes to make room for her to sit on my bed.
'Wow! Slowdown,how?' I asked as I sat next to her.
'I've finally met someone I'm willing to be serious about but he is a piece of work darling,I don't know where to start from,' she began.
'Bulbul speak English,its like you're talking in parables.'
Bulbul is Zahra's nickname. I rarely called her by the indian name because it sounds funny to me. I used to wonder if it was gotten from the hausa word for balloon, 'bollon-bollo'-which is impossible.
'He is such a party rider-which I can totally relate to because I used to be one- but the things he does at the party...' She nodded her head in disappointment.
'Wait...he told you the things he does?' I asked in shock.
'Yes',she replied curtly.
'Then he is the honest type but are you sure he was not pulling your legs?' I enquired.
'I'm sure!',She snapped. 'Crazy people like me are not so plenty. Its so rare to find someone who goes to parties and just sits there observing everything, Zahra burst out.
'Well that's true but...'
'Can you believe he drinks?' She interrupted with an expression of disgust on her face.
'Drinks? Drinks what?,' I really didn't want to believe it.
'Alcohol of course!,' Zahra blurted.
'Auzubillah(I seek refuge in Allah)!' I exclaimed.
'In his words, "I never get drunk,I only sip a little just to shut my friends up," she said using air quotes.
'What are his intentions over you?' I asked with keen interest.
'We've had a really good start but I'm so confused right now.' She said sadly.
'Ignore the bad habits and tell me what you think of him as a person,' I questioned.
'I think he is very friendly,caring,thoughtful and you won't believe how educated he is islamically. I think that he is around bad influence,that's why he is struggling,' she confided.
'Bulbul,fix him!' I blurted.
'Fix who? Please Nini,where do I start from? I can't do it,' she announced.
'Yes you can! You're the best person for the job. You've helped me clear most of my confusions,this should be easy!'
'No its not!'
'Yes it is! You just need to remind him. He knows what's right and wrong, a little reminder is all he needs.'
'Haneem,why are you here? Why the hell are you studying MCB(Microbiology)?'
'Why is that suddenly a problem?' I asked confused.
'You should be a psychotherapist,you'll be super good!' Zahra suggested jokingly.
'Oh please...!' I sighed.
'Thank you so much darling!' She said as she hugged me.
'What are friends for?'
Thursday, 14 May 2015
Letter to the whirlwind.
Dear Whirlwind,
I have come to admire you. The way you go about swiftly and elegantly. I am in need of a friend,one who will just listen to me. So far I have found none,until I came across you. As you elegantly make your entourage dance around me,take my words with you. Take them to your far away home.
The arms I used to run to have become the weapon of my most dreaded monster...a monster of my own making.
The most loving man I had ever known turned cold. He became a different person. I guess he ran out of patience;All the anger he had kept locked up inside came out in the form of a merciless animal. I dare not even call his name. I've lost that right.
The arms that once held me lovingly now turned into claws that would scratch my delicate skin. The melodious voice that pacified me turned into an audacious roar that would bark orders at me. The very sound of his roars sent shivers down my spine. I could never have imagined this side of him.
He had made me so happy and so comfortable. He gave me every thing I had wanted and made all my dreams come true. He pampered me do much that I became too proud. I felt so big and I trampled on his heart. I grew wings-fake wings- and I flied around proudly and trampled on the people precious to me. I lost myself and my sense of direction. I got so high on an illusion. The nostalgia of those days keep me alive. I got so high on an illusion.
I realized my mistakes perhaps too late;I ignored the warnings of my loved ones and my wings failed me at the time I needed them most. The moment that I needed to fly high up in the sky and shout out my remorseful apology to him in the presence of the whole world. My wings broke off and then I realized that they were never really there.
No! He is not a monster. I'm the real monster. I'm the devil because a turned an angel into a cold blooded man. I took away his happiness and I left him filled with anger and pain. Little did I know that I was hurting myself by hurting him.
I'm in excruciating pain seeing him this way. He has lost his smile,that light in his eyes is no longer there. I can feel how unhappy he is. Even in his anger,I see his love and It breaks my heart time and again.
All I have is him. He is everything and I'm nothing without him. He is my home,the place my heart resides. I will stick to him,no matter how hard he tries to shake me off, I will stick to him like my whole life depends on it...because it does depend on him.
P.S: Its a fictional short story. Hope you like it?
I have come to admire you. The way you go about swiftly and elegantly. I am in need of a friend,one who will just listen to me. So far I have found none,until I came across you. As you elegantly make your entourage dance around me,take my words with you. Take them to your far away home.
The arms I used to run to have become the weapon of my most dreaded monster...a monster of my own making.
The most loving man I had ever known turned cold. He became a different person. I guess he ran out of patience;All the anger he had kept locked up inside came out in the form of a merciless animal. I dare not even call his name. I've lost that right.
The arms that once held me lovingly now turned into claws that would scratch my delicate skin. The melodious voice that pacified me turned into an audacious roar that would bark orders at me. The very sound of his roars sent shivers down my spine. I could never have imagined this side of him.
He had made me so happy and so comfortable. He gave me every thing I had wanted and made all my dreams come true. He pampered me do much that I became too proud. I felt so big and I trampled on his heart. I grew wings-fake wings- and I flied around proudly and trampled on the people precious to me. I lost myself and my sense of direction. I got so high on an illusion. The nostalgia of those days keep me alive. I got so high on an illusion.
I realized my mistakes perhaps too late;I ignored the warnings of my loved ones and my wings failed me at the time I needed them most. The moment that I needed to fly high up in the sky and shout out my remorseful apology to him in the presence of the whole world. My wings broke off and then I realized that they were never really there.
No! He is not a monster. I'm the real monster. I'm the devil because a turned an angel into a cold blooded man. I took away his happiness and I left him filled with anger and pain. Little did I know that I was hurting myself by hurting him.
I'm in excruciating pain seeing him this way. He has lost his smile,that light in his eyes is no longer there. I can feel how unhappy he is. Even in his anger,I see his love and It breaks my heart time and again.
All I have is him. He is everything and I'm nothing without him. He is my home,the place my heart resides. I will stick to him,no matter how hard he tries to shake me off, I will stick to him like my whole life depends on it...because it does depend on him.
P.S: Its a fictional short story. Hope you like it?
Friday, 27 March 2015
Nigeria decides 2015
But before you vote; Don't get carried away by the petty campaign gifts you receive,Will it last you four years? Will it keep you safe? Will it put a roof over your head? Will it bring back our girls?
Dear Nigerians,think long and hard before you cast your votes. Who do you believe can restore our peace? Who do you feel will help us fight the corruption that has eaten deep in to our roots? Who do you feel will improve our agricultural sector? Who do you believe has the best interest of Nigeria in his heart?
Ponder over these questions and find their answers tonight before casting your votes tomorrow. The fate of Nigeria is in your hands. You have been given the power to decide.
Do not sell your only power to decide,no matter how bad things are,at least you still are entitled to your vote. You still have a say.
Do not be deceived by material things. Our Nigeria is worth more than that! We as Nigerians have a duty to our country. Let's not fold our hands and watch our country crumble. Go out tomorrow with confidence and hope,cast your vote for who you believe will do a better job. Your vote counts,Nigeria needs your vote!
Our beloved country will come out of this elections stronger,safer and better by the grace of God. We can have a violence-free,transparent,free and fair elections. Therefore,go out and make your vote count! God bless Nigeria! God bless Nigerians!
P.S: This is not a political campaign for or against any party. This is the sincere opinion and voice of a young Nigerian who wants the best for her country.
Saturday, 7 March 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #5:An outing gone wrong 2
I dropped Afraah and Bilkisu off at school and I was hoping that Afraah and I could talk it over but she was clearly not in the mood. She got off without a word.
We exchanged worried glances.
"I don't understand what just happened," Bee complained.
"Neither do I but i'm worried about Afraah,she might have gotten hurt from the impact," I gulped.
"Hmm,I'll go and check up on her straight away," Bee announced.
"see you girls soon,"She said before she scurried out of the car.
None of us said anything throughout the drive home. Zahra's silence scared me even more.
"Zahra why have you been so quiet?," I asked.
"Haneem,I don't get it. Tijjani,Ahmad's closest friend is a friend of mine. We talk a lot about many things but he never mentioned Ahmad's marriage."
"What if he is helping his friend cover up?" I asked.
"O please nini! Its been only 6months since Afraah met Ahmad. I've known Tijjani for longer yet he never mentioned any such thing,"Zahra hissed.
"I think we should get back to school tomorrow. I can't keep calm until this puzzle is solved," I said after a long sigh
"I agree with you,"Zahra replied.
Bilkisu called-at night-to inform us that she managed to take Afraah to the clinic and that Afraah's arm had been dislocated.
We headed straight to our room(Afraah's and mine) on sunday morning.
"Wow,you guys are back already?,"Afraah exclaimed. The fulani beauty exclaimed the moment we walked in. She was sitting on the rug still wearing her pyjamas.
Afraah looked very normal except for her bandaged arm. She had always been good at hiding her troubles.
Zahra and I dropped off our things in one corner of the small room.
"I can see through your act,"Zahra crooned.
"C'mon Zahra,don't go there,yesterday was dramatic but its history now," Afraah said rolling her eyes.
"Did you talk to Ahmad? Did he explain himself?," I asked anxiously.
"I have no reason to listen to another woman's husband," Afraah snapped,pointing to her vibrating phone. I had noticed the lights of her phone when we came in but I didn't pay attention to it.
"You mean you didn't give him a chance to explain?" Zahra asked.
"Explain what? There's nothing to explain,"Afraah muttered.
"Afraah,there has to be an explanation for what happened. You should at least hear him out," I suggested.
Zahra picked up the phone and exclaimed "Subhanallah! 25missed calls under 30 minutes? Haba Afraah! have mercy,hear him out."
Afraah placed her bandaged hand on her head and closed her eyes shut-letting her despair show.
"Afraah please!,"I pleaded.
"Fine" Afraah conceded as she picked up her phone and stormed out of the room. She walked back in moments later and dejectedly wore her hijab.
We all knew she would be gone for long,so we all set out doing our various activities.
We met up again in our room about an hour and a half later.All three of us sat on the small matrass on the lower bunk. After exhausting all the gists we had to share,our mouths got shot by our thoughts.
Just when the silence was getting unbearable,Afraah walked in to room with an expression opposite the one she left with..
"Ladies..."she said cheerfully as she sat opposite us.
"Afraah...you're smiling," I said unconsciously.
I saw bee and Zahra exchange glances from the corner of my eyes.
"Hold on...so tell me who is married and who is the crazy lady that attacked you,"? Zahra blurted impatiently.
"Its a long story," Afraah said cheerfully and clearly trying to increase our tension.
"Cut it short!" Bee ordered.
Afraah smiled before replying. "Ahmad is not married and he has never been married!" Afraah announced.
"I knew it!" Zahra declared.
"He had once told me of ex that he even got engaged with but could not marry because her bad habits got unbearable for him. Rukkaya had trouble accepting that it was over she kept calling and texting him like before. Ahmad got fed up and told her to stop bothering him and then she ATTACKED!" Afraah narrated.
The tension in the room eased as Afraah's narration ended.
"How the HELL did she track you then?" I queried.
"It seems she stole his phone and went through his chat history...
"Stole his phone?" Zahra interrupted. "How did she pull that off?" Zahra asked suspiciously.
"Ah! I forgot to mention. She's his cousin." Afraah announced.
"Burauban chan!(an expression showing shock or announcing troubling outcomes),"Bee blurted.
"Enough of that crazy story. I'm ecstatic! I feel like celebrating!" Afraah said. "Can you believe Ahmad's Mum called to apologize?"
"What???" we all echoed.
"Now I wished I had slapped her more than once!"Zahra announced.
"You slapped her?"Afraah asked in shock.
"Anything for you!" Zahra said with a smug expression on her face.
"But are you safe?" I asked worriedly.
"Ahmad would be crazy to let her touch me again. I believe she's exhausted her strength for now," Afraah said wearing a wide smile.
"By the way don't you ever go out to see ANYONE in pyjamas ever again! I don't care if you wear a hijab over it," Bee warned.
We spent the rest of day cracking jokes about the outing gone wrong.
P.S: I am super sorry for the late update. I've been so busy with tests. Hope you enjoyed this episode?
We exchanged worried glances.
"I don't understand what just happened," Bee complained.
"Neither do I but i'm worried about Afraah,she might have gotten hurt from the impact," I gulped.
"Hmm,I'll go and check up on her straight away," Bee announced.
"see you girls soon,"She said before she scurried out of the car.
None of us said anything throughout the drive home. Zahra's silence scared me even more.
"Zahra why have you been so quiet?," I asked.
"Haneem,I don't get it. Tijjani,Ahmad's closest friend is a friend of mine. We talk a lot about many things but he never mentioned Ahmad's marriage."
"What if he is helping his friend cover up?" I asked.
"O please nini! Its been only 6months since Afraah met Ahmad. I've known Tijjani for longer yet he never mentioned any such thing,"Zahra hissed.
"I think we should get back to school tomorrow. I can't keep calm until this puzzle is solved," I said after a long sigh
"I agree with you,"Zahra replied.
Bilkisu called-at night-to inform us that she managed to take Afraah to the clinic and that Afraah's arm had been dislocated.
We headed straight to our room(Afraah's and mine) on sunday morning.
"Wow,you guys are back already?,"Afraah exclaimed. The fulani beauty exclaimed the moment we walked in. She was sitting on the rug still wearing her pyjamas.
Afraah looked very normal except for her bandaged arm. She had always been good at hiding her troubles.
Zahra and I dropped off our things in one corner of the small room.
"I can see through your act,"Zahra crooned.
"C'mon Zahra,don't go there,yesterday was dramatic but its history now," Afraah said rolling her eyes.
"Did you talk to Ahmad? Did he explain himself?," I asked anxiously.
"I have no reason to listen to another woman's husband," Afraah snapped,pointing to her vibrating phone. I had noticed the lights of her phone when we came in but I didn't pay attention to it.
"You mean you didn't give him a chance to explain?" Zahra asked.
"Explain what? There's nothing to explain,"Afraah muttered.
"Afraah,there has to be an explanation for what happened. You should at least hear him out," I suggested.
Zahra picked up the phone and exclaimed "Subhanallah! 25missed calls under 30 minutes? Haba Afraah! have mercy,hear him out."
Afraah placed her bandaged hand on her head and closed her eyes shut-letting her despair show.
"Afraah please!,"I pleaded.
"Fine" Afraah conceded as she picked up her phone and stormed out of the room. She walked back in moments later and dejectedly wore her hijab.
We all knew she would be gone for long,so we all set out doing our various activities.
We met up again in our room about an hour and a half later.All three of us sat on the small matrass on the lower bunk. After exhausting all the gists we had to share,our mouths got shot by our thoughts.
Just when the silence was getting unbearable,Afraah walked in to room with an expression opposite the one she left with..
"Ladies..."she said cheerfully as she sat opposite us.
"Afraah...you're smiling," I said unconsciously.
I saw bee and Zahra exchange glances from the corner of my eyes.
"Hold on...so tell me who is married and who is the crazy lady that attacked you,"? Zahra blurted impatiently.
"Its a long story," Afraah said cheerfully and clearly trying to increase our tension.
"Cut it short!" Bee ordered.
Afraah smiled before replying. "Ahmad is not married and he has never been married!" Afraah announced.
"I knew it!" Zahra declared.
"He had once told me of ex that he even got engaged with but could not marry because her bad habits got unbearable for him. Rukkaya had trouble accepting that it was over she kept calling and texting him like before. Ahmad got fed up and told her to stop bothering him and then she ATTACKED!" Afraah narrated.
The tension in the room eased as Afraah's narration ended.
"How the HELL did she track you then?" I queried.
"It seems she stole his phone and went through his chat history...
"Stole his phone?" Zahra interrupted. "How did she pull that off?" Zahra asked suspiciously.
"Ah! I forgot to mention. She's his cousin." Afraah announced.
"Burauban chan!(an expression showing shock or announcing troubling outcomes),"Bee blurted.
"Enough of that crazy story. I'm ecstatic! I feel like celebrating!" Afraah said. "Can you believe Ahmad's Mum called to apologize?"
"What???" we all echoed.
"Now I wished I had slapped her more than once!"Zahra announced.
"You slapped her?"Afraah asked in shock.
"Anything for you!" Zahra said with a smug expression on her face.
"But are you safe?" I asked worriedly.
"Ahmad would be crazy to let her touch me again. I believe she's exhausted her strength for now," Afraah said wearing a wide smile.
"By the way don't you ever go out to see ANYONE in pyjamas ever again! I don't care if you wear a hijab over it," Bee warned.
We spent the rest of day cracking jokes about the outing gone wrong.
P.S: I am super sorry for the late update. I've been so busy with tests. Hope you enjoyed this episode?
Saturday, 14 February 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #4: An outing gone wrong
My friends-Afraah,Zahra,Bilkisu-and I have a tradition of going out once every two weeks. We would mostly hang out at Safara( a well known eatery) or at the park. There was always a dress code. We were all wearing jeans with different hijab styles(we are all hijabies) that saturday.
Afraah is one of those warm people that you just can't hate,she is my roommate in the hostel. She is very kind,sweet and innocent. Bilkisu(Bee) is the comedian,kind of like Zahra,she is stubborn but also very careful. And Zahra...No! I'll let you figure out who she is on your own.
Zahra and I picked up the other girls-with my mum's car-from the school gate and headed to Safara.
The familiar orange and green paint welcomed us to Safara. It is quiet big and it offers a lot of dishes although we mostly went for snacks. It wasn't as full as it usually is on saturday evenings.
We settled down on an empty table and placed our orders ranging from ice cream to soft drinks.
"Girls,I have definitely met the one" Zahra bragged. "I just knew it from the moment I laid eyes on him.
"Huun un" The girls crooned in unison excluding me.
I still couldn't believe it. I've always known that Zahra was fearless but I just didn't expect what she did.
Zahra narrated everything that happened to Bee and Afraah with special emphasis on 'The one'.
Bewildered faces stared back at the ecstatic narrator.
"Haba Zahara'u!" Afraah exclaimed.
"How could you shamelessly flirt with a random stranger just because of his looks" Afraah scolded.
Zahra let out a sarcastic laugh.
"Just because? Haha...You really don't know what you're saying" Zahra said eyeing Afraah playfully.
"Anyway, I won't blame you,I would have said the same thing had I not seen him for myself" Zahra conceded.
"So tell us about this 'The one',Bee said with interest.
I sighed.
"Yauwa!,(O yes!) Bee,now you're talking."
Bee and afraah listened with full attention while
I deliberately engrossed myself with Instagram still in an attempt to show Zahra my disapproval. Although, I could hear her babbling.
The stranger's real name is Imran,A final year student of Architecture in a university London.
Zahra snatched my phone from my hands trying to get my attention.
"Enough about me,I want to hear about you girls," Zahra announced.
I rolled my eyes. The never-ending topic of relationships was always brought up by Bee but it wasn't surprising that Zahra brought it up this week.
Although as annoying as it got it was still the most fun part of going out
"Here we go again," Afraah crooned.
"Yes Afraah! So I'll start with you, How is Ahmad?' Zahra asked with excitement.
"Ahmad is fine" Afraah replied curtly. It was obviously that she had deliberately cut her answer short.
"You know you can't get away with that,Oya". she clapped her hands.
"A detailed explanation,how are you and Ahmad?"
Bee and I exchanged glances and burst out laughing.
"All of you are ganging up on me right? Fine I'll spill the beans" Afraah said feigning anger.
"No,no,no! Afraah dear,its just one of those things you know." I said winking at her.
"Sharrap and let me talk" Afraah ordered.
I kept quiet.
"Ahmad is still the same religious,caring and gentle guy. He is very supporting and encouraging too. I turn to him most times I'm down and he is really good to me."
We were all too distracted to notice a lady walk up to our table. She stood right next to Afraah.
"Afraah!" the plump fair complexioned lady called. She was wearing a long ankara gown and her veil was folded on one side of her shoulder.
Afraah unconsciously turned towards the lady in response.
The plumpy lady swiftly raised her hand towards Afraah's face. Luckily Afraah blocked the attacking hand with a puzzled expression on her face.
We were all rather shocked.
"Who are you?" Afraah queried.
"You even dare to ask who I am huh?" the lady thundered-as she freed her hand from Afraah's grip-drawing attention to our table.
We exchanged glances but not one of us could speak.
Within split seconds,the lady dragged Afraah by her shirt and sent her flying in to the next table. Afraah crashed into the empty table.
The entire restaurant became alarmed.
"Look at this shameless tiny thing" the lady announced to the restaurant.
"Toh,I am Rukkaya, Ahmad's wife,"she announced.
"Zahra,take Afraah out through the back door I'll handle this" I instructed as we all got up and rushed towards Afraah.
"Hell no! You know I can handle this better," Zahra disagreed.
"I'll take her out,"Bilkisu offered.
I helped Bilkisu get the moaning Afraah up. I did not notice that Zahra walked up to the fuming woman till I heard her voice.
"Ahmad is not married so who are you?" Zahra demanded.
Ahmad's so called wife raised her hand to slap Zahra but her attack was expertly stopped.
Just then the restaurant workers and customers came rushing towards the two and started asking questions.
I was surprised that it took that long for them to intervene. Perhaps they were all enjoying the site.
Bilkisu and Afraah had already gone out safely through the back door thanks to Zahra's distraction skills.
Rukkaya was busy lamenting to the audience. So I signaled Zahra to sneak out from the very embarrassing scene but she ignored me.
Before I could say a word,Zahra had managed to get close enough to the woman and the next thing I heard was a resounding slap.
I froze and my jaws dropped open.
Zahra quickly made her way out,took my hand and we ran outside.
I somehow managed to find the car keys,opened the car and struggled to fit it into the ignition.
I saw Rukkaya run out of safara most likely to avenge her slap.
I quickly started the car and headed towards the gate. Another car almost hit mine because he was speeding in. I instinctively turned to look at the driver and guess what? It was Ahmad.
"Subhanallah! Its Ahmad," I blurted.
"Please just get me out of this place!" Afraah said speaking for the first time since the incidence.
Ahmad signaled me to stop but I ignored him and zoomed off!
To be continued...
P.S: Haneem's diary is fictional. The characters and the stories are not real,although sometimes are inspired by real life happenings.
Afraah is one of those warm people that you just can't hate,she is my roommate in the hostel. She is very kind,sweet and innocent. Bilkisu(Bee) is the comedian,kind of like Zahra,she is stubborn but also very careful. And Zahra...No! I'll let you figure out who she is on your own.
Zahra and I picked up the other girls-with my mum's car-from the school gate and headed to Safara.
The familiar orange and green paint welcomed us to Safara. It is quiet big and it offers a lot of dishes although we mostly went for snacks. It wasn't as full as it usually is on saturday evenings.
We settled down on an empty table and placed our orders ranging from ice cream to soft drinks.
"Girls,I have definitely met the one" Zahra bragged. "I just knew it from the moment I laid eyes on him.
"Huun un" The girls crooned in unison excluding me.
I still couldn't believe it. I've always known that Zahra was fearless but I just didn't expect what she did.
Zahra narrated everything that happened to Bee and Afraah with special emphasis on 'The one'.
Bewildered faces stared back at the ecstatic narrator.
"Haba Zahara'u!" Afraah exclaimed.
"How could you shamelessly flirt with a random stranger just because of his looks" Afraah scolded.
Zahra let out a sarcastic laugh.
"Just because? Haha...You really don't know what you're saying" Zahra said eyeing Afraah playfully.
"Anyway, I won't blame you,I would have said the same thing had I not seen him for myself" Zahra conceded.
"So tell us about this 'The one',Bee said with interest.
I sighed.
"Yauwa!,(O yes!) Bee,now you're talking."
Bee and afraah listened with full attention while
I deliberately engrossed myself with Instagram still in an attempt to show Zahra my disapproval. Although, I could hear her babbling.
The stranger's real name is Imran,A final year student of Architecture in a university London.
Zahra snatched my phone from my hands trying to get my attention.
"Enough about me,I want to hear about you girls," Zahra announced.
I rolled my eyes. The never-ending topic of relationships was always brought up by Bee but it wasn't surprising that Zahra brought it up this week.
Although as annoying as it got it was still the most fun part of going out
"Here we go again," Afraah crooned.
"Yes Afraah! So I'll start with you, How is Ahmad?' Zahra asked with excitement.
"Ahmad is fine" Afraah replied curtly. It was obviously that she had deliberately cut her answer short.
"You know you can't get away with that,Oya". she clapped her hands.
"A detailed explanation,how are you and Ahmad?"
Bee and I exchanged glances and burst out laughing.
"All of you are ganging up on me right? Fine I'll spill the beans" Afraah said feigning anger.
"No,no,no! Afraah dear,its just one of those things you know." I said winking at her.
"Sharrap and let me talk" Afraah ordered.
I kept quiet.
"Ahmad is still the same religious,caring and gentle guy. He is very supporting and encouraging too. I turn to him most times I'm down and he is really good to me."
We were all too distracted to notice a lady walk up to our table. She stood right next to Afraah.
"Afraah!" the plump fair complexioned lady called. She was wearing a long ankara gown and her veil was folded on one side of her shoulder.
Afraah unconsciously turned towards the lady in response.
The plumpy lady swiftly raised her hand towards Afraah's face. Luckily Afraah blocked the attacking hand with a puzzled expression on her face.
We were all rather shocked.
"Who are you?" Afraah queried.
"You even dare to ask who I am huh?" the lady thundered-as she freed her hand from Afraah's grip-drawing attention to our table.
We exchanged glances but not one of us could speak.
Within split seconds,the lady dragged Afraah by her shirt and sent her flying in to the next table. Afraah crashed into the empty table.
The entire restaurant became alarmed.
"Look at this shameless tiny thing" the lady announced to the restaurant.
"Toh,I am Rukkaya, Ahmad's wife,"she announced.
"Zahra,take Afraah out through the back door I'll handle this" I instructed as we all got up and rushed towards Afraah.
"Hell no! You know I can handle this better," Zahra disagreed.
"I'll take her out,"Bilkisu offered.
I helped Bilkisu get the moaning Afraah up. I did not notice that Zahra walked up to the fuming woman till I heard her voice.
"Ahmad is not married so who are you?" Zahra demanded.
Ahmad's so called wife raised her hand to slap Zahra but her attack was expertly stopped.
Just then the restaurant workers and customers came rushing towards the two and started asking questions.
I was surprised that it took that long for them to intervene. Perhaps they were all enjoying the site.
Bilkisu and Afraah had already gone out safely through the back door thanks to Zahra's distraction skills.
Rukkaya was busy lamenting to the audience. So I signaled Zahra to sneak out from the very embarrassing scene but she ignored me.
Before I could say a word,Zahra had managed to get close enough to the woman and the next thing I heard was a resounding slap.
I froze and my jaws dropped open.
Zahra quickly made her way out,took my hand and we ran outside.
I somehow managed to find the car keys,opened the car and struggled to fit it into the ignition.
I saw Rukkaya run out of safara most likely to avenge her slap.
I quickly started the car and headed towards the gate. Another car almost hit mine because he was speeding in. I instinctively turned to look at the driver and guess what? It was Ahmad.
"Subhanallah! Its Ahmad," I blurted.
"Please just get me out of this place!" Afraah said speaking for the first time since the incidence.
Ahmad signaled me to stop but I ignored him and zoomed off!
To be continued...
P.S: Haneem's diary is fictional. The characters and the stories are not real,although sometimes are inspired by real life happenings.
Friday, 6 February 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY #3: Her audacious move
A lecture had been fixed for us that friday at FUT's(Federal university of technology) permanent site Gidan kwanu(Gk) instead of our main campus in Bosso,Minna. The lecturer complained about the class being too large so he divided the class in to groups.
The lecture ended at 1pm in Gidan kwanu(Gk) campus. Gk is in the outskirts of minna along bida road. It would take about 30minutes to bosso-in FUT's worn out buses-but it took about fifteen minutes with a normal car.
My friend Zarah and I-my other friends were in a different group so there was only 2 of us-decided to join the jummat congregational prayer before returning home for the weekend.
Zahra and I both reside in the Bosso campus hostel. Although, I am based in minna while she is from Kaduna state. She had decided to follow me home for the weekend.
After our prayers at about 2:15pm, we headed to the bus park and behold!There was a very long queue-in the scorching sun- without even a single bus parked.
"Kai kai kai!" Zarah exclaimed.
"Hanini(that was her nickname for me) lets just head outside school and get a taxi", she added.
"Gaskiya"(that's right),I agreed without arguing.
Luckily,we were able to get a mahindra(keke napep) that dropped us off at the school gate.
It was very difficult getting a taxi. We were there for 15 good minutes before a Red Toyota camry pulled over in front of us.
I definitely didn't know anyone who drove such a car so I was kind of surprised. The front window slid open and Zahra leaned on
"Ina wuni(Good afternoon)", Zahra greeted.
The driver answered cheerfully so I assumed that she knew him from somewhere.
"Are you heading home?" he asked in a polished English tone.
"I'm heading to my friend's house" she said pointing at me. That was the moment I got a chance to greet him-whomever he was.
I could tell that he was tall from where I stood. He looked young,probably in his mid twenties. The man's face was definitely something to look at. His complexion wasn't the normal dark, it was that type of flawless black-beauty that you can't just help but admit is gorgeous. As tempting as his looks were they were just the type of looks that I hate to see in a guy. I've always believed that handsome guys are dangerous
"Just drop us at Adamawa street" Zahra added.
She got in the front passengers seat while I sat at the back.
The two immediately started a conversation from which I assumed he was a family friend she hadn't seen in a long time.
" So how is school? I hope it hasn't been too stressful?"
"it hasn't been easy, but I'm a survivor!" She bragged.
He smiled in response revealing a perfectly small and hollow depression in his cheek.
"How is mum and everyone at home?" She asked.
He smiled before replying,"They are all fine.
"my regards to them then", she said in a melodious tune, giving him that flirtatious smile she gave when she was up to something. That made me more uncomfortable.
Judging from Zahra's behavior, I assumed that he was one of her many crushes. They were so many that I could not keep up with their looks or habits.
"Your friend is awfully quiet", he observed staring back at me for a second.
"She's like that around strangers" responded. eyeing me playfully. I wanted to react but she was really right,so I maintained my quiet stand.
The car took the last turn just few seconds before the junction to my house. Finally! My uncomfortable trip was about to end.
When the car pulled over right before the sign board that read 'Adamawa Street'. The most surprising thing happened,he requested for Zahra's number-that wasn't surprising- and then he asked for her name.
Wait...What? I was going crazy.
I had actually gotten in to a total stranger's car all the way from Gk I managed to thank him before getting off the car.
"Zarah are you crazy? So you don't even know him and we got into his car? Haba!" I yelled unable to control my anger as we walked down to my house.
"Relax Haneem, we've arrived safely,that's one thing to be thankful for ok?"
"A'audzhu billahi (I seek refuge in Allah) thankful? Sure I am but WE got into a stranger's car,what if..."
"O please haneem, just let it go. I'll not get in to just any body's car,he looks responsible,he just wanted to help", Zahra replied rolling her eyeballs with an attitude.
My anger subsided as the gate of my house came in to view. It had been two weeks since I was at home last. The thought of the comfort and calmness awaiting me at home eased my anger.
When I looked at Zahra,all I did was shake my head. The Zahra I know would definitely fall for that epitome of beauty. I'm sure her mind was made up the moment the glass slid down.
P.S: Hello everyone! I'm really sorry my sketches are poor. I want to illustrate myself but I'm not really good at drawing. Hopefully I will get better in time. Thanks for reading!
The lecture ended at 1pm in Gidan kwanu(Gk) campus. Gk is in the outskirts of minna along bida road. It would take about 30minutes to bosso-in FUT's worn out buses-but it took about fifteen minutes with a normal car.
My friend Zarah and I-my other friends were in a different group so there was only 2 of us-decided to join the jummat congregational prayer before returning home for the weekend.
Zahra and I both reside in the Bosso campus hostel. Although, I am based in minna while she is from Kaduna state. She had decided to follow me home for the weekend.
After our prayers at about 2:15pm, we headed to the bus park and behold!There was a very long queue-in the scorching sun- without even a single bus parked.
"Kai kai kai!" Zarah exclaimed.
"Hanini(that was her nickname for me) lets just head outside school and get a taxi", she added.
"Gaskiya"(that's right),I agreed without arguing.
Luckily,we were able to get a mahindra(keke napep) that dropped us off at the school gate.
It was very difficult getting a taxi. We were there for 15 good minutes before a Red Toyota camry pulled over in front of us.
I definitely didn't know anyone who drove such a car so I was kind of surprised. The front window slid open and Zahra leaned on
"Ina wuni(Good afternoon)", Zahra greeted.
The driver answered cheerfully so I assumed that she knew him from somewhere.
"Are you heading home?" he asked in a polished English tone.
"I'm heading to my friend's house" she said pointing at me. That was the moment I got a chance to greet him-whomever he was.
I could tell that he was tall from where I stood. He looked young,probably in his mid twenties. The man's face was definitely something to look at. His complexion wasn't the normal dark, it was that type of flawless black-beauty that you can't just help but admit is gorgeous. As tempting as his looks were they were just the type of looks that I hate to see in a guy. I've always believed that handsome guys are dangerous
"Just drop us at Adamawa street" Zahra added.
She got in the front passengers seat while I sat at the back.
The two immediately started a conversation from which I assumed he was a family friend she hadn't seen in a long time.
" So how is school? I hope it hasn't been too stressful?"
"it hasn't been easy, but I'm a survivor!" She bragged.
He smiled in response revealing a perfectly small and hollow depression in his cheek.
"How is mum and everyone at home?" She asked.
He smiled before replying,"They are all fine.
"my regards to them then", she said in a melodious tune, giving him that flirtatious smile she gave when she was up to something. That made me more uncomfortable.
Judging from Zahra's behavior, I assumed that he was one of her many crushes. They were so many that I could not keep up with their looks or habits.
"Your friend is awfully quiet", he observed staring back at me for a second.
"She's like that around strangers" responded. eyeing me playfully. I wanted to react but she was really right,so I maintained my quiet stand.
The car took the last turn just few seconds before the junction to my house. Finally! My uncomfortable trip was about to end.
When the car pulled over right before the sign board that read 'Adamawa Street'. The most surprising thing happened,he requested for Zahra's number-that wasn't surprising- and then he asked for her name.
Wait...What? I was going crazy.
I had actually gotten in to a total stranger's car all the way from Gk I managed to thank him before getting off the car.
"Zarah are you crazy? So you don't even know him and we got into his car? Haba!" I yelled unable to control my anger as we walked down to my house.
"Relax Haneem, we've arrived safely,that's one thing to be thankful for ok?"
"A'audzhu billahi (I seek refuge in Allah) thankful? Sure I am but WE got into a stranger's car,what if..."
"O please haneem, just let it go. I'll not get in to just any body's car,he looks responsible,he just wanted to help", Zahra replied rolling her eyeballs with an attitude.
My anger subsided as the gate of my house came in to view. It had been two weeks since I was at home last. The thought of the comfort and calmness awaiting me at home eased my anger.
When I looked at Zahra,all I did was shake my head. The Zahra I know would definitely fall for that epitome of beauty. I'm sure her mind was made up the moment the glass slid down.
P.S: Hello everyone! I'm really sorry my sketches are poor. I want to illustrate myself but I'm not really good at drawing. Hopefully I will get better in time. Thanks for reading!
Sunday, 1 February 2015
World hijab day
Hey there! Have you heard of 'World hijab day?' Its an event that takes place February 1st. Its an event that encourages both muslims a d non-muslims to wear a hijab. It was first celebrated in 2013.
World hijab day is celebrated so as to show the world that the hijab is freedom and not oppression. This is a day when everyone can wear hijab and get to understand it a little bit more.
I chose to wear the traditional long hijab today. Its very different-in a good way. Its not really my she but it is definitely beautiful. It feels safe,covered,beautiful and very comfortable.
Happy World hijab day!!!
World hijab day is celebrated so as to show the world that the hijab is freedom and not oppression. This is a day when everyone can wear hijab and get to understand it a little bit more.
I chose to wear the traditional long hijab today. Its very different-in a good way. Its not really my she but it is definitely beautiful. It feels safe,covered,beautiful and very comfortable.
Happy World hijab day!!!
Saturday, 31 January 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY: For the sake of love
Ralia dissolved in to laughter as I narrated what Abba did to me. It was a week later and I was still annoyed.
I had spent almost all day at Ralia's -my cousin- house. I went with Abba but unfortunately, the little boy slept off before we left the house so I had to carry him. Ralia carried my bag-because I had complained about Abba's weight- and her mini suitcase. The sound of Ralia's laughter made him shift in his sleep.
Ralia is my favorite cousin. Although she is three years older than me,we talk like age mates. She was a final year student of Biochemistry at Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria. At the same time,the family was preparing for her wedding.
We had agreed that I will spend the day at Ralia's then she will spend the night at my house. This was a kind of tradition for us. We would take turns to sleepover at eachpthers house every once in a while.
Ralia's house was a very quiet close. There were seberal other houses there. The ground outside Ralia's house was very sandy which I did not like because the
sand kept getting in to my slippers.
We took our leave after our Isha prayer(the fifth and final prayer for the day) I have always hated going out at night and I was not so pleased with having to leave so late but Ralia had pleaded with me earlier not to take a taxi but to wait for her fiance to drop us off. We had been standing there for less than 10 minutes and the mosquitoes had already found there way in to my skirt and started to bite my legs. Ralia was safe from their attacks because she wore a long hijab and socks. At that time I wished I had at least put on my socks.
Just as Ralia finished laughing at me, I noticed a car approaching. I did not pay much attention to the car thinking it would pass. The sound of the engine got closer but It was difficult for me to see the face of the driver because of the powerful headlight. As the car got even closer I managed to observe that it was a black sienna. It pulled over in front of us.
"He is here"Ralia beamed.
I needed no further explanation. She Opened the door of the backseat for me. As I entered, I greeted the her fiance. He answered me cheerfully. I immediately believed everything I had heard about him. I balanced Abba on my laps and rested his head on my chest.
I have always hated being around couples and that situation certainly was not an exception. I engaged in my favorite past time-day dreaming. I got so distracted that something happened between the Ralia and her fiance,umar.
He turned back and flashed me a smile I found suspicious. I shifted uncomfortably. Just then, A nokia tune ringtone pierced the silence,increasing the tension in the car.
"Hello sweetheart!" Umar began.
My body stiffened. I could feel Ralia's tension from where I sat.
"I'm sorry love, I'll be with you shortly." he added.
The distance from Ralia's house to mine was less than 20minutes but I felt like it was more than two hours. It was a very quiet drive except for Ralia who was directing Umar.
Finally, the car took the last turn that was only three houses away from my house. The car pulled over in front of that familiar Brown colored gate.
I moved Abba from my laps to my shoulder as I opened the door.
"Good night" Umar said. "Its too bad we had to meet like this,I've heard a lot about you," he added.
"yeah" I murmured- accompanied with a fake smile- as I got off the car.
I waited for Ralia inside the house just by the gate. My shoulders were very much strained because of Abba's weight but I was not in a hurry to get inside the house.
When she joined me, the was an obvious sign of hurt on her face. This made me hold all the questions I had prepared to ask her. We walked inside in silence.
After we had showered and changed in to our night gowns,I could no longer hold it in.
"Ralia, what exactly are you doing?" I asked
" What do you mean?" she queried clearly pretending not to know what I meant.
" You know what I mean Ralia" I accused.
"Haneem,believe me" she started,he is not who you think,he's just as i've always described him,he just changed recently" she reassured.
"Ralia,the wedding should not go on if he is like this. I want you to be happy,I want you to have a good man in your life" I cried.
"He is a good man sis,believe me I know it,he is just going through a phase I'm sure it'll pass" she said almost in a whisper.
"What if it doesn't?"
"Haneem,I have what many people long for,this little problems are nothing to me" Ralia went on.
"Ralia don't do this to yourself please,I'm begging you" I pleaded.
"Haneem dear,the wedding will go on In Shaa Allah(By the grace of God), I will become his wife,I'm ready to tolerate anything" Ralia ended.
As I went to sleep,my heart was filled with grief and pity for Ralia,she was determined and commited to live with daily heartbreak all for the sake of love.
Ralia dissolved in to laughter as I narrated what Abba did to me. It was a week later and I was still annoyed.
I had spent almost all day at Ralia's -my cousin- house. I went with Abba but unfortunately, the little boy slept off before we left the house so I had to carry him. Ralia carried my bag-because I had complained about Abba's weight- and her mini suitcase. The sound of Ralia's laughter made him shift in his sleep.
Ralia is my favorite cousin. Although she is three years older than me,we talk like age mates. She was a final year student of Biochemistry at Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria. At the same time,the family was preparing for her wedding.
We had agreed that I will spend the day at Ralia's then she will spend the night at my house. This was a kind of tradition for us. We would take turns to sleepover at eachpthers house every once in a while.
Ralia's house was a very quiet close. There were seberal other houses there. The ground outside Ralia's house was very sandy which I did not like because the
sand kept getting in to my slippers.
We took our leave after our Isha prayer(the fifth and final prayer for the day) I have always hated going out at night and I was not so pleased with having to leave so late but Ralia had pleaded with me earlier not to take a taxi but to wait for her fiance to drop us off. We had been standing there for less than 10 minutes and the mosquitoes had already found there way in to my skirt and started to bite my legs. Ralia was safe from their attacks because she wore a long hijab and socks. At that time I wished I had at least put on my socks.
Just as Ralia finished laughing at me, I noticed a car approaching. I did not pay much attention to the car thinking it would pass. The sound of the engine got closer but It was difficult for me to see the face of the driver because of the powerful headlight. As the car got even closer I managed to observe that it was a black sienna. It pulled over in front of us.
"He is here"Ralia beamed.
I needed no further explanation. She Opened the door of the backseat for me. As I entered, I greeted the her fiance. He answered me cheerfully. I immediately believed everything I had heard about him. I balanced Abba on my laps and rested his head on my chest.
I have always hated being around couples and that situation certainly was not an exception. I engaged in my favorite past time-day dreaming. I got so distracted that something happened between the Ralia and her fiance,umar.
He turned back and flashed me a smile I found suspicious. I shifted uncomfortably. Just then, A nokia tune ringtone pierced the silence,increasing the tension in the car.
"Hello sweetheart!" Umar began.
My body stiffened. I could feel Ralia's tension from where I sat.
"I'm sorry love, I'll be with you shortly." he added.
The distance from Ralia's house to mine was less than 20minutes but I felt like it was more than two hours. It was a very quiet drive except for Ralia who was directing Umar.
Finally, the car took the last turn that was only three houses away from my house. The car pulled over in front of that familiar Brown colored gate.
I moved Abba from my laps to my shoulder as I opened the door.
"Good night" Umar said. "Its too bad we had to meet like this,I've heard a lot about you," he added.
"yeah" I murmured- accompanied with a fake smile- as I got off the car.
I waited for Ralia inside the house just by the gate. My shoulders were very much strained because of Abba's weight but I was not in a hurry to get inside the house.
When she joined me, the was an obvious sign of hurt on her face. This made me hold all the questions I had prepared to ask her. We walked inside in silence.
After we had showered and changed in to our night gowns,I could no longer hold it in.
"Ralia, what exactly are you doing?" I asked
" What do you mean?" she queried clearly pretending not to know what I meant.
" You know what I mean Ralia" I accused.
"Haneem,believe me" she started,he is not who you think,he's just as i've always described him,he just changed recently" she reassured.
"Ralia,the wedding should not go on if he is like this. I want you to be happy,I want you to have a good man in your life" I cried.
"He is a good man sis,believe me I know it,he is just going through a phase I'm sure it'll pass" she said almost in a whisper.
"What if it doesn't?"
"Haneem,I have what many people long for,this little problems are nothing to me" Ralia went on.
"Ralia don't do this to yourself please,I'm begging you" I pleaded.
"Haneem dear,the wedding will go on In Shaa Allah(By the grace of God), I will become his wife,I'm ready to tolerate anything" Ralia ended.
As I went to sleep,my heart was filled with grief and pity for Ralia,she was determined and commited to live with daily heartbreak all for the sake of love.
I had spent almost all day at Ralia's -my cousin- house. I went with Abba but unfortunately, the little boy slept off before we left the house so I had to carry him. Ralia carried my bag-because I had complained about Abba's weight- and her mini suitcase. The sound of Ralia's laughter made him shift in his sleep.
Ralia is my favorite cousin. Although she is three years older than me,we talk like age mates. She was a final year student of Biochemistry at Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria. At the same time,the family was preparing for her wedding.
We had agreed that I will spend the day at Ralia's then she will spend the night at my house. This was a kind of tradition for us. We would take turns to sleepover at eachpthers house every once in a while.
Ralia's house was a very quiet close. There were seberal other houses there. The ground outside Ralia's house was very sandy which I did not like because the
sand kept getting in to my slippers.
We took our leave after our Isha prayer(the fifth and final prayer for the day) I have always hated going out at night and I was not so pleased with having to leave so late but Ralia had pleaded with me earlier not to take a taxi but to wait for her fiance to drop us off. We had been standing there for less than 10 minutes and the mosquitoes had already found there way in to my skirt and started to bite my legs. Ralia was safe from their attacks because she wore a long hijab and socks. At that time I wished I had at least put on my socks.
Just as Ralia finished laughing at me, I noticed a car approaching. I did not pay much attention to the car thinking it would pass. The sound of the engine got closer but It was difficult for me to see the face of the driver because of the powerful headlight. As the car got even closer I managed to observe that it was a black sienna. It pulled over in front of us.
"He is here"Ralia beamed.
I needed no further explanation. She Opened the door of the backseat for me. As I entered, I greeted the her fiance. He answered me cheerfully. I immediately believed everything I had heard about him. I balanced Abba on my laps and rested his head on my chest.
I have always hated being around couples and that situation certainly was not an exception. I engaged in my favorite past time-day dreaming. I got so distracted that something happened between the Ralia and her fiance,umar.
He turned back and flashed me a smile I found suspicious. I shifted uncomfortably. Just then, A nokia tune ringtone pierced the silence,increasing the tension in the car.
"Hello sweetheart!" Umar began.
My body stiffened. I could feel Ralia's tension from where I sat.
"I'm sorry love, I'll be with you shortly." he added.
The distance from Ralia's house to mine was less than 20minutes but I felt like it was more than two hours. It was a very quiet drive except for Ralia who was directing Umar.
Finally, the car took the last turn that was only three houses away from my house. The car pulled over in front of that familiar Brown colored gate.
I moved Abba from my laps to my shoulder as I opened the door.
"Good night" Umar said. "Its too bad we had to meet like this,I've heard a lot about you," he added.
"yeah" I murmured- accompanied with a fake smile- as I got off the car.
I waited for Ralia inside the house just by the gate. My shoulders were very much strained because of Abba's weight but I was not in a hurry to get inside the house.
When she joined me, the was an obvious sign of hurt on her face. This made me hold all the questions I had prepared to ask her. We walked inside in silence.
After we had showered and changed in to our night gowns,I could no longer hold it in.
"Ralia, what exactly are you doing?" I asked
" What do you mean?" she queried clearly pretending not to know what I meant.
" You know what I mean Ralia" I accused.
"Haneem,believe me" she started,he is not who you think,he's just as i've always described him,he just changed recently" she reassured.
"Ralia,the wedding should not go on if he is like this. I want you to be happy,I want you to have a good man in your life" I cried.
"He is a good man sis,believe me I know it,he is just going through a phase I'm sure it'll pass" she said almost in a whisper.
"What if it doesn't?"
"Haneem,I have what many people long for,this little problems are nothing to me" Ralia went on.
"Ralia don't do this to yourself please,I'm begging you" I pleaded.
"Haneem dear,the wedding will go on In Shaa Allah(By the grace of God), I will become his wife,I'm ready to tolerate anything" Ralia ended.
As I went to sleep,my heart was filled with grief and pity for Ralia,she was determined and commited to live with daily heartbreak all for the sake of love.
Ralia dissolved in to laughter as I narrated what Abba did to me. It was a week later and I was still annoyed.
I had spent almost all day at Ralia's -my cousin- house. I went with Abba but unfortunately, the little boy slept off before we left the house so I had to carry him. Ralia carried my bag-because I had complained about Abba's weight- and her mini suitcase. The sound of Ralia's laughter made him shift in his sleep.
Ralia is my favorite cousin. Although she is three years older than me,we talk like age mates. She was a final year student of Biochemistry at Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria. At the same time,the family was preparing for her wedding.
We had agreed that I will spend the day at Ralia's then she will spend the night at my house. This was a kind of tradition for us. We would take turns to sleepover at eachpthers house every once in a while.
Ralia's house was a very quiet close. There were seberal other houses there. The ground outside Ralia's house was very sandy which I did not like because the
sand kept getting in to my slippers.
We took our leave after our Isha prayer(the fifth and final prayer for the day) I have always hated going out at night and I was not so pleased with having to leave so late but Ralia had pleaded with me earlier not to take a taxi but to wait for her fiance to drop us off. We had been standing there for less than 10 minutes and the mosquitoes had already found there way in to my skirt and started to bite my legs. Ralia was safe from their attacks because she wore a long hijab and socks. At that time I wished I had at least put on my socks.
Just as Ralia finished laughing at me, I noticed a car approaching. I did not pay much attention to the car thinking it would pass. The sound of the engine got closer but It was difficult for me to see the face of the driver because of the powerful headlight. As the car got even closer I managed to observe that it was a black sienna. It pulled over in front of us.
"He is here"Ralia beamed.
I needed no further explanation. She Opened the door of the backseat for me. As I entered, I greeted the her fiance. He answered me cheerfully. I immediately believed everything I had heard about him. I balanced Abba on my laps and rested his head on my chest.
I have always hated being around couples and that situation certainly was not an exception. I engaged in my favorite past time-day dreaming. I got so distracted that something happened between the Ralia and her fiance,umar.
He turned back and flashed me a smile I found suspicious. I shifted uncomfortably. Just then, A nokia tune ringtone pierced the silence,increasing the tension in the car.
"Hello sweetheart!" Umar began.
My body stiffened. I could feel Ralia's tension from where I sat.
"I'm sorry love, I'll be with you shortly." he added.
The distance from Ralia's house to mine was less than 20minutes but I felt like it was more than two hours. It was a very quiet drive except for Ralia who was directing Umar.
Finally, the car took the last turn that was only three houses away from my house. The car pulled over in front of that familiar Brown colored gate.
I moved Abba from my laps to my shoulder as I opened the door.
"Good night" Umar said. "Its too bad we had to meet like this,I've heard a lot about you," he added.
"yeah" I murmured- accompanied with a fake smile- as I got off the car.
I waited for Ralia inside the house just by the gate. My shoulders were very much strained because of Abba's weight but I was not in a hurry to get inside the house.
When she joined me, the was an obvious sign of hurt on her face. This made me hold all the questions I had prepared to ask her. We walked inside in silence.
After we had showered and changed in to our night gowns,I could no longer hold it in.
"Ralia, what exactly are you doing?" I asked
" What do you mean?" she queried clearly pretending not to know what I meant.
" You know what I mean Ralia" I accused.
"Haneem,believe me" she started,he is not who you think,he's just as i've always described him,he just changed recently" she reassured.
"Ralia,the wedding should not go on if he is like this. I want you to be happy,I want you to have a good man in your life" I cried.
"He is a good man sis,believe me I know it,he is just going through a phase I'm sure it'll pass" she said almost in a whisper.
"What if it doesn't?"
"Haneem,I have what many people long for,this little problems are nothing to me" Ralia went on.
"Ralia don't do this to yourself please,I'm begging you" I pleaded.
"Haneem dear,the wedding will go on In Shaa Allah(By the grace of God), I will become his wife,I'm ready to tolerate anything" Ralia ended.
As I went to sleep,my heart was filled with grief and pity for Ralia,she was determined and commited to live with daily heartbreak all for the sake of love.
Thursday, 29 January 2015
Outfit of the day
Hello There! I wanted to do an outfit of the day blogpost. My outfit is chic and casual. This is one way for a hijabi to wear vests. I've had the vest for a while but I couldn't wear it out until I came across the shirt.
Also,if you look closely,you'll notice a sleeve under my shirt. I was a little bit uncomfortable with the length of the shirt's sleeve. This is the first time I tried wearing purple and pink and I liked the outcome. I hope you're inspired.
P.S:I was supposed to make this blogpost yesterday but I was unable to that because of school work.
Also,if you look closely,you'll notice a sleeve under my shirt. I was a little bit uncomfortable with the length of the shirt's sleeve. This is the first time I tried wearing purple and pink and I liked the outcome. I hope you're inspired.
P.S:I was supposed to make this blogpost yesterday but I was unable to that because of school work.
Sunday, 25 January 2015
HANEEM'S DIARY: Pest Of Nature
I stretched my legs fully so as to relax myself. The sound of dolly parton's 'coat of many colours' boomed from my ear piece. It was the perfect picture of relaxation but Alas! It did not last long.
Just as I closed my eyes and prepared to sleep,a familiar voice pierced the silence of the air around me.
'HANEEM!' the voice called.
I jumped up in fright. A petite figure appeared in front of me
"come and see what has happened,"he said.
It was my younger brother Abba;before I could say a word,he pulled my hand and dragged me outside towards the gate.
'What has happened'? I asked.
He ignored my question which made me even more nervous. I tried to think of what might have happened.
'Did someone die?','Did Mallam Audu the shop keeper get hit by a car?' 'Did...
I continued to ponder on what might have happened. I didn't care that I was bare footed or that I did not even put on a veil. My heart was pounding like a drum.
The longer we ran,the more anxious I felt. We had passed the. supermarket,the drug store even the car wash!
Finally,Abba started to reduce his speed and I felt a little bit relieved.
'I will soon find out what has happened' I thought.
'wait a minute...,' I paused. 'But this is the football field'
'yes!' he answered. I could see the excitement in his eyes. 'Well...tell me,what has happened?' I asked impatiently.
'My friend's brother has bought a new ball and he said I can play with it whenever I want!'
I could feel the anger through my veins,I was so annoyed that I felt speechless...I thought of how he dragged me from my room,the distance I ran bare footed!
'Mtsw' I hissed as I lazily walked back home.'Pest of nature!' I thought.
P.S: Haneem's diary is a fictional series based on things I witness,experience and imagine. Haneem is Meenah spelled backwards which is one of my many nicknames. I wrote 'pest of nature' two years ago. It was the first story I wrote under Haneem's diary. Since I'm starting all over again, I thought It would be best to start from the beginning. By Gods grace, Haneem's diary will have a new story up ever Saturday. Hope you enjoy it!
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