Khilafat – A Motivation For Me

Sultana Ghaffar, Birmingham

I cannot imagine my life without Khilafat. Khilafat is a link to Allah the Almighty and is a path to peace and tranquillity, not just for me but for so many. There are so many aspects of Khilafat that one can draw upon, learn from, and be inspired by. The humility and kindness of Khilafat continually has me in wonder. When you think that the same person who used to live in a remote place in Northern Ghana with limited access to water and electricity, is now the worldwide Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper) you begin to acknowledge that the traits of humility and kindness are at its centre, not only that but most importantly the trust in Allah and the conviction in Allah. It is knowing in one’s heart that Allah is the Best of helpers and will always be there for you. It states in the Holy Quran “…We are closer to him than his jugular vein” (50:17)

By the grace of God, Ahmadis are fortunate enough to follow a Khalifa who makes time for each one of us and remembers the details of things we tell him. In private audiences with my family, when the Khalifa remembers which stage of education I am at, I am so amazed and so stunned as His Holiness meets many people and yet he can make each one of us feel special. When I was younger, on such blessed occasions when my family would be granted a private audience with His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper), perhaps because I am the youngest of four, His Holiness would enquire specifically about my well-being. I recall a time when I was a child, my family and I went for an audience with His Holiness. That day I was very nervous. As I entered the room, I saw His Holiness’ loving smile and I instantly became calm. As we went to sit down, he just smiled at me as if he knew I was nervous coming in. As the meeting progressed, His Holiness asked my father about me, in response to which my father requested that His Holiness remember me in his prayers. Just as my father finished his sentence Huzoor just remarked “Don’t worry, she will be fine.” As Huzoor said this, I felt a sense of relief and assurance

I said to myself in my head if the person that I greatly respect and love is saying this about me, who am I to doubt. Even as child at the time, for me to have that opportunity and a chance to have a connection with my spiritual leader is beyond words. Only one who has been appointed by God speaks with such poise, kindness, and conviction. Since that day, I have remained motivated but also patient. This experience alone has shown me the attention and kindness His Holiness shows to all and has motivated me to pay attention to others and show kindness also.

May Allah bless His Holiness with a long and healthy life, may Allah continue to help him guide this blessed Community. Ameen.