I woke up with a start, my heart pounding loudly in my chest. Beads of sweat formed on my forehead as I tried to catch my breath. It had been a while since I had that nightmare, but tonight it felt vivid and haunting as ever. The memories of that fateful day came rushing back to me, as if time had not dulled the pain.
It was the year 2005. I was just a young girl, full of dreams and aspirations, living a carefree life with my loving parents. My father, a kind and gentle man, and my mother, a strong and nurturing woman, were my pillars of support and love. We were a close-knit family, and every moment we spent together felt like a gift from above.
But that day, fate dealt us a cruel hand. I can still hear the screeching tires, the deafening crash, and the sound of my heart shattering into a million pieces. In the blink of an eye, my parents were taken away from me, leaving me with an emptiness that could never be filled.
I sat up in bed, wiping away the tears that had escaped from my eyes. The nightmare had felt so real, as if I was reliving that tragic moment all over again. But I knew I had to be strong. I had to remember that they were in a better place, looking down on me from heaven, and guiding me through life's journey.
With a deep breath, I got out of bed and walked over to the window. The night sky was adorned with stars, their soft glow offering me a sense of comfort. I whispered a prayer for my parents, asking Allah to bless their souls and grant them eternal peace.
As I stood there, lost in thought, a gentle knock on my bedroom door pulled me back to the present. It was my Auntie Mairo, the woman who had lovingly taken me in after my parents' passing. She was like a mother to me, always there to offer her support and love.
"Fatima, are you alright, my dear?" she asked, concern evident in her eyes.
I managed a faint smile and nodded. "I'm fine, Auntie Mairo. Just had a bad dream."
She came closer and enveloped me in a warm hug. "I know it must be hard for you, my child. Losing your parents at such a young age is a heavy burden to bear. But always remember that you are not alone. We are family, and we will always be here for you."
Tears welled up in my eyes again, but this time, they were tears of gratitude. I was blessed to have Auntie Mairo and my extended family by my side, supporting me through every step of my life's journey.
"Thank you, Auntie," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion.
She gently brushed a stray hair from my face and smiled. "Now, try to get some rest, my dear. Tomorrow is a new day, and I know you have a lot on your plate with your NYSC and everything. Allah will guide you and give you strength."
I nodded, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. Auntie Mairo was right. I had to be strong and face whatever challenges life threw my way. With the love and support of my family, I knew I could overcome anything.
As I settled back into bed, I closed my eyes and whispered a final prayer for my parents. I knew Allah was watching over me, guiding me through life's ups and downs. And with that comforting thought, I drifted off to sleep once again, ready to face whatever tomorrow had in store for me.
January 2010
As the weeks passed, Ahmed and I continued to exchange emails and phone calls, keeping the flame of our love burning bright across the distance. We shared our daily experiences, dreams, and aspirations, finding solace in the knowledge that we were walking this journey together, even if physically apart.
Subject: A Dream Fulfilled
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
Today marked the end of my NYSC program, and I can't believe how quickly time has flown. Your unwavering support and encouragement throughout this period have been my guiding light. I am grateful to Allah for granting me such a loving partner.
With love and gratitude,
Fatima Ayn
Subject: Re: A Dream Fulfilled
From: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
To: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
Fatima,
Congratulations on completing your NYSC program! Your dedication and hard work never cease to amaze me. I am proud to be by your side as you achieve your dreams. Together, we will overcome any obstacles that come our way.
With love and pride,
Ahmed Kabir
As my NYSC program concluded, I looked forward to starting the next phase of my life, teaching chemistry at a secondary school. The enthusiasm and curiosity of my students were infectious, and I felt a sense of purpose and fulfillment in imparting knowledge to the younger generation.
During my free time, I would meet up with my close friends, Samira, Aisha and Halima. We would gather at a local café, sharing laughter, stories, and dreams. It was refreshing to have their unwavering support and encouragement as I navigated this new chapter in my life.
Subject: The Joys of Teaching
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
Teaching these young minds fills my heart with joy and purpose. They are so eager to learn, and their enthusiasm is contagious. I can't wait to share this experience with you someday, in sha Allah.
With love and excitement,
Fatima Ayn
Subject: Re: The Joys of Teaching
From: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
To: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
Fatima,
I can imagine the joy in your heart as you inspire your students with knowledge. Your passion for teaching is one of the many things that make me proud to call you mine. In sha Allah, we will create a beautiful future together.
With love and admiration,
Ahmed Kabir
As my days filled with the joy of teaching, Ahmed's master's program abroad was also drawing to a close. He shared stories of his experiences, the friends he made, and how much he looked forward to coming back home.
Subject: Anticipating Your Return
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
Your stories of your time abroad bring a smile to my face. I can't wait for the day you return, and we can embark on this journey together. The thought of being by your side fills my heart with excitement.
With love and longing,
Fatima Ayn
Subject: Re: Anticipating Your Return
From: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
To: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
Fatima,
The days are passing, and I can't wait to be reunited with you. Your presence brings comfort and joy to my life, and I eagerly await the day we will be together once again. May Allah bless our love.
With love and anticipation,
Ahmed Kabir
As our time apart neared its end, we knew that our love had grown stronger with every passing day. We cherished the moments we shared and looked forward to a future filled with love, faith, and the promise of a life united.
As the days drew closer to Ahmed's return, the excitement and anticipation in my heart reached new heights. I couldn't help but count down the moments until we would finally be together again. In the midst of my joy, I found solace in my faith, praying to Allah to bless our love and guide us on this journey.
Subject: The Days Are Drawing Near
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
The days are drawing near, and my heart feels like it's about to burst with excitement. The thought of having you back home, by my side, fills me with overwhelming happiness. In sha Allah, our love will grow even stronger with each passing moment.
With love and prayers,
Fatima Ayn
Subject: Re: The Days Are Drawing Near
From: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
To: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
Fatima,
I feel the same excitement in my heart as the days approach our reunion. Being apart has only made me cherish and appreciate you more. In sha Allah, our love will continue to blossom, guided by Allah's blessings.
With love and anticipation,
Ahmed Kabir
As Ahmed's return neared, I busied myself with preparations for his arrival as our wedding was slotted for two weeks after his return. Our matrimonial home was being decorated and I looked forward to creating beautiful memories together in it.
Subject: Preparing for Your Return
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
I can't wait to welcome you back to Nigeria. I've been preparing for our wedding. The days have felt empty without you, and I'm eager to fill them with love and laughter.
With love and excitement,
Fatima Ayn
Subject: Re: Preparing for Your Return
From: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
To: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
Fatima,
Your thoughtfulness warms my heart. I can't wait to come back to a home filled with your love and care. You are my comfort and my joy, and I'm counting down the moments until we are finally married.
With love and gratitude,
Ahmed Kabir
As the day of Ahmed's return finally arrived, I found myself at the airport once more, this time filled with anticipation and joy. Yusuf stood by my side, providing me with the support and reassurance I needed.
My heart pounded with excitement as I caught sight of Ahmed's familiar face in the crowd. Our eyes locked, and I felt an overwhelming surge of emotions. This moment was a testament to the strength of our love and the beautiful journey that had led us to this point.
"Ahmed," I greeted with a warm smile, maintaining appropriate boundaries as we exchanged respectful greetings.
"Ayn," he replied, his voice filled with love and admiration. I always love how he calls me by either fatima or Ayn. It's something so ordinary but it feels so special coming from him.
Subject: A Long-Awaited Reunion
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
You're finally back, and my heart feels like it's about to burst with happiness. Seeing you again fills me with immense joy and gratitude to Allah. I thank Him every day for bringing us together.
With love and overwhelming happiness,
Fatima Ayn
Subject: Re: A Long-Awaited Reunion
From: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
To: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
Fatima,
Being back with you feels like a dream come true. Your presence lights up my life, and I am grateful to Allah for guiding our paths to intersect. May our love continue to grow, guided by His blessings.
With love and a heart full of gratitude,
Ahmed Kabir
I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of peace and contentment. Our love had endured the test of distance, and now we were together once more, ready to embark on the next chapter of our love story.
As the long-awaited day of our traditional Hausa wedding approached, excitement filled the air. Two weeks had passed since Ahmed's return, and we were now busy preparing for the joyous occasion that would unite us in matrimony. The wedding would be a reflection of our cultural heritage and a celebration of our love.
With all my friends and family, by my side, I adorned the intricate henna designs on my hands and feet. The rich, red patterns symbolized prosperity and happiness, a beautiful tribute to the new chapter in our lives. All my university friends including Khadija had come for my wedding. I was so happy to have all my girls by my side.
Meanwhile, Ahmed's family and friends were equally busy with their own preparations. His father, Alhaji kabir Ajuji, His uncle and waliyy, Alhaji Abubakar Ajuji, and his other male relatives took charge of the groom's attire, ensuring every detail was immaculate. The men laughed and teased each other, their joy infectious as they looked forward to welcoming me into their family.
In the days leading up to the wedding, our families came together to finalize the arrangements. Auntie Mairo and Uncle Jibril, my uncle and waliyy, exchanged warm greetings with Alhaji Abubakar Ajuji and the rest of Ahmed's family. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie, a testament to the genuine bond forming between our loved ones.
The morning of the wedding arrived, and the air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of traditional Hausa delicacies being prepared. Women bustled about, ensuring every dish was a culinary masterpiece, while the men gathered to discuss the final details of the day's events.
The Sa Lalle, the traditional pre-wedding event, took place in the afternoon. The courtyard of Auntie Mairo's house was adorned with vibrant decorations, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement. The women gathered, singing songs of love and blessings for the couple. The sound of tambourines and ululations filled the air, signifying the joyous occasion.
Subject: A Day of Unity and Love
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: HalimaSadique@gmail.com
My Dearest Halima,
Today is the day! The joy and anticipation in the air are palpable, and I am filled with excitement and nervousness.
The wedding preparations have been a whirlwind of laughter, love, and cultural festivities. My heart swells with gratitude as I witness the love and support from both our families coming together as one.
I cannot wait to begin this new chapter with Ahmed by my side. Your friendship has been a guiding light throughout this journey, and I am grateful to have you in my life.
With love and anticipation,
Fatima Ayn
As the Sa Lalle ceremony continued, the men held their own festivities, dancing and celebrating with exuberance. In the afternoon, the wankin amarya took place in uncle Jibril's house. It was such a beautiful and memorable event.
In the evening, the Wankin Ango ceremony took place. The groom, adorned in a regal attire, arrived at his grandmother's house with a procession of family and friends. The joyful celebrations continued, with the men showcasing their dance skills and showering the groom with blessings and well-wishes.
Subject: An Enchanting Celebration
From: FatimaAynMuhammad@gmail.com
To: Ahmed3kabirrr@gmail.com
Ahmed,
As I look around at the vibrant colors and smiling faces, I am reminded of the beauty of our culture and the love that binds us together. The festivities are a testament to the love and unity we have found in each other.
I am eager to stand beside you in love and commitment. Our journey has been filled with ups and downs, but I know that with you by my side, we can face anything that comes our way.
With love and anticipation,
Fatima Ayn
On the day of the Daurin Aure, the wedding ceremony, the entire community came together to witness the union of our hearts. I, the bride was adorned in a stunning, intricately embroidered dress, a symbol of my beauty and grace. As I made my entrance, escorted by my Auntie Mairo and friends, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
The ceremony took place in the mosque after Friday prayers while I was home getting ready for the reception afterwards. The moment finally arrived when I received a call that our marriage has been sealed and my dowry has been paid.
The reception that followed was a grand affair, with a lavish spread of delectable Hausa dishes and sumptuous desserts. The hall was decorated with elegant fabrics and twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance.
As the night wore on, and the stars shimmered in the sky, I felt an overwhelming sense of contentment. Our traditional Hausa wedding was not only a celebration of our love but also a testament to the strength of our cultural heritage and the unbreakable bond between our families.
As we basked in the love and joy of our loved ones, I knew that this was the beginning of a new chapter filled with love, hope, and a promise of a future together.