Involvement in Community
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Question
I am currently a university student who is involved in Islamic work on campus as well as in the community. But I feel that sometimes I can get too caught up in it and rather lose focus and I guess track. There are times that I start to get really depressed as well and distant from Allah (SWT) although I really don't want to. I really think that because one might be on MSA exec or in a leadership position you are always supposed to act a certain way and that people are always criticizing you. Some say it is your responsibilty first if you know that you can help with something to do it, but others have said that its better to step away from the 'fame'. I really get depressed at times and overthink a lot whic has really started to affect my emotional state overall... is it better for me to step away from this stuff for a while? What can I do help get me on track again?
Answer
In the name of Allah the Most Merciful the Most Compassionate
May His peace and blessings be upon His messenger, his companions, and his folk.
The service that you are doing to your MSA and your Muslim community is invaluable to both you and those you are helping. However, you must take care not to forget your own health, responsibilities, and emotional stability.
When working for others has a negative effect on one's own self and one's relationship with Allah, it is a strong sign that one should step back for a little bit. When you feel stress and a lack of focus, you are not able to perform your duties properly -- not those for the people you are helping, and not those of your own.
Your priority should be to sort out your feelings, your focus, and your relationship with Allah. Only after this, consider restarting the services that you have been doing for the Muslims. InshaAllah you will come back strong, with a renewed focus and intention, and Allah will grant you success in your desire to help others.
Regarding your dilemma concerning whether to continue your work or not because of its high-profile nature, know that if your intentions are for the sake of Allah, you shouldn't be worried about what people say about you.
However, there is much wisdom in sticking to low-profile work, as it preserves the sincerity to Allah in one's actions. You can still help the Muslims without being in the spotlight. For example, instead of writing articles in a magazine, you can edit them. Or instead of being a speaker at an event, work in the behind-the-scenes organization. It is these jobs that help one realize that Allah is the only focus, as He is the only One seeing them.
May Allah grant you ease and success.
And Allah knows best.
This answer was published by SunniPath and is preserved as written. Rulings can depend on circumstances; for your own situation, consult a qualified scholar.
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