It is our own thoughts that cause suffering, difficulty, trouble, sorrow, and tears. It is our own thoughts that cause our endless chatter and lack of peace. In our ignorance and lack of wisdom, we gather these things. These are the clouds that sever our connection to God. The connection between God’s truth and us is a very close connection. God is closer to us than our own life, but our mind and desire hide that connection. Our thoughts, intentions, and attachments hide this connection. Once we push these things away, how easily the connection between God and us can be realized. The world disappears and the hereafter (akhirah) opens up. Allah resplends, our heart (qalb) embraces Him, and there is bliss. There is peace!

-Bawa Muhaiyaddeen