When I first applied for Umrah, it was entirely spontaneous. I genuinely never expected I would actually end up performing Umrah with MSF. Looking back, this journey really started here and it reminds me that Allah SWT truly is the best of planners. What felt like a small spontaneous decision turned into the most meaningful experience of my life.
This was my first time performing umrah (and even traveling with MSF) which was both exciting and slightly intimidating. I didn’t really know what to expect and was full of questions; the full weight of the journey I was about to embark on hadn’t hit me yet. Performing umrah as an explorer was even more special. There was something incredible about performing acts of worship alongside people who you shared one thing other than your deen with: scouting. Being surrounded by my leaders and fellow explorers created a strong sense of unity and sisterhood I hadn’t experienced so intensely before. They say that you never forget the people you first went to umrah with – and I undoubtedly believe it. I made sisters for life that I knew were going to be there for me, not only during my umrah journey but for the rest of my life. We grew together learning, supporting and reminding each other along the way.
Arriving in Makkah was overwhelming in the most indescribable way. The first sight of the Ka’aba is something nothing can prepare you for. In that moment everything faded into the background and all I ever worried about felt small. I’ve never felt so deeply connected to Allah as I did when making tawaf around the Ka’aba alongside millions of Muslims around the world, all for the same purpose of worshipping Allah. Throughout the trip, I found myself contemplating quietly for longer, reflecting more and speaking less. My heart and mind settled peacefully as though I had always belonged in Makkah.
Madinah felt completely different to Makkah. Where Makkah was intense and powerful, Madinah felt like fresh air. There was a calm in the air and a gentleness to the city and it is here I found peace. Praying in the Prophet’s (SAW) Mosque and spending time in the city allowed me to slow down and everything from my life back in the UK faded to the background. Looking back, this journey shaped me in ways that go beyond comprehension and something I
believe words are unable to capture. Of course, my relationship with Allah SWT strengthened but it also reshaped how I see myself and others. As an Explorer, it reminded me of the importance of intention, patience and complete belief in Allah that I pray I will carry in my everyday life. This experience taught me the significance of a community that share the same purpose and values and that growth happens when we have trust in Allah.
Alhamdulillah.
I pray Allah SWT accepts our umrah, prayers and duas.
Yasmin Chakal (11th St Marylebone)
