It all began 12 years ago. This is my son's age. I had to take a leave when he was born. Before his birth I was teaching at the universitry of pharmacy. I loved teaching, although I wasn't quiet satisfied with the stuff I was teaching nor with the teaching methods I had to use. I was part of the system, a big system,bigger than you and me, an established organization in which I had no choice but to follow the orders and apply the rules. I did it so blindfoldedly until it became part of my nature. I guess it was part of everybody's nature, just to follow the crowd. This leave I took, although I dreaded it at the begining, forced me to pause and think. To actually give myself a break. To reconsider my path, my values, and my intentions.What do I really want to do in my life? What do I want to achieve? What do I want to be remembered for? Tens of questions were waiting for answers and here I finally had some time to think for those answers. This was my first lesson. We all need time to slow down in this fast-paced life that refuse to slow down. We need to reflect and ponder, to meditate and eveluate, to set priorities and adjust intentions.
A second thing I learnt from that leave was that aiming for greatness does not have to contradict with your responsibilities and duties. I didn't have to compromise my dream or give up my life goals. I shouldn't feel like a victim and cry for my wasted life. Not at all. It all can fit together. whenever there is a will, there is a way. My job is to find it. when I stopped feeling victimized, when I gave up helplessness and pessimism, when I strengthened my belief in my Creator and the powers and potentials He bestowed on me, I aimed for greatness and here I am, alhamdullelah (thank God), walking steadily on my path.