Letter to Erin 20150913

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

From Allah is our origin, and to Allah is our return.

Can you imagine?  2 million people all in one spot.  Not housed in buildings spread over a few miles, but in one house.  The house of Allah.  One can only conjecture why Allah blew a giant storm over Mecca during the peak of the Hajj.  What can you do?  With 2 million people all crammed in one house, you have to expand.  Then comes Judgement Day.

You know something?  If I can afford to build your house, that means I can afford to do my Hajj.  And I want to do my Hajj while I still have some strength.  I don't want to get squashed.  And it's HOT.  But I don't want to leave you by yourself.  So if I'm allowed to go, then I'm taking you with me.  The Hajj isn't a romantic getaway, it's a mandatory workload for Muslims who are able and can afford the journey.  Hard work.  I would keep you very close to me at all times.  In a crowd of 2 million people, I'm going to have to keep you close to me at all times.  We would get separated at Safa' and Marwah, but don't go anywhere!  Wait for me right here while I make my round, I'll be right back.  I don't know if we would get an air conditioned hotel room with running water, but we'll try to bring the walkie talkies.  No, it's not supposed to be fun.  This is supposed to be work, and those who ask for payback in this life will have no share in the hereafter.  You are my wife, inshaAllah.  I want you to be with me.  I love you, and I need you.