My heart has been heavy for days. On the inside, a familiar weight has been settling in my chest, a constant reminder of conversations that veered into a territory I know too well. They often start so innocently, so justifiably.
“I have to vent about how frustrating that interaction was,” I reason.
“They need to understand the situation with so-and-so,” I justify.
In explaining, venting, and justifying, I cross a line. Out of frustration and carelessness, I’ve spoken unnecessarily about others. How do I vent my frustration without poisoning my own heart and the hearts of others against a creation of Allah?
Ya Allah Ya ‘Afuw, forgive me for the times my tongue ran ahead of my iman. Forgive me for the nonsense I have uttered in front of everyone. Guide my mind to be more alert before I speak and to repair what I have done.
ZAFIRA ZAINAL 