Four generations

"Four generations of blood.

Oceans of sweat and tears,

Four generations of love."

Picture © Aisha Mirza March 2017

#AishaMirzaquotes

#aishamirzaphotography

International Day of Happiness

"True happiness is not what others offer us. It's found in an appreciation of the little things in life."

#internationaldayofhappiness2017

Heritage Radio

• Training complete
• mic check...
• desk check...
• drive time... here goes nothing... 

Bismillah

3 years ago today

Can't believe it was three years ago today I had my first book launch and signing. It was important for me to launch it on International Women's Day purely as a reminder that after hardship comes ease, that there is light after darkness, that even when we feel we are not good enough or tell ourselves we are not worthy or capable things can dramatically change leaving you in awe and believing that there is a greater One who watches over you always.

What once was just an idea swimming in my mind, becoming a simple story thrashed out one sunny afternoon which then grew into something so beautiful; never did I think it would happen. It did and I still find it difficult to comprehend. I'm just grateful for my journey so far; even the rough and arduous parts as it's those which have made me who I am.

In the words of Imam Shafi

“My heart is at ease knowing that what was meant for me will never miss me, and that what misses me was never meant for me.”

pictures © Aisha Mirza March 2017

Today we remember mothers

I just had the most beautiful afternoon with my favourite ladies. Not that I don't always enjoy their company, but there was something silently moving between us all. An energy which spoke.. "I stand in solidarity."

Combining some of my work with Community on Solid Ground -South Asian Women's group, and the volunteering I do for the charity Remembering Srebrenica, I delivered a creative workshop around a flower which symbolises hope, and peace.

Today we remembered mothers.

We thought about the mother who had left us. The huge sacrifices she had made, whose every breath was dedicated to someone other than herself. 

A mother, whose moments were spent nurturing, helping, supporting and guiding those under her care without a thought of what she may need. 

A mother, who smiled through the most difficult struggles, taking footsteps unknown to places unfamiliar. A mother, who committed her lifetime to her work, unwaveringly. 

A mother that challenged the narrative by doing what was right rather than what was expected. 

A mother unwilling to hide when the world told her she was not worthy, or give up when they told her she was unable. Our mothers.

We remembered the Mothers of Srebrenica, Bosnia, and their search for truth and justice. 

The mothers who lost beloved husbands, brothers and sons due to war and genocide. 

The mothers who despite the darkness they endured, chose to emit light from the heart, and from the lips only forgiveness poured.

YOU are our "sheroes" and today we stand in solidarity with you...as mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers.

#IWD2017 #BeBoldForChange

pictures © Aisha Mirza March 2017

"Sheroes"

It's that time of year again when people around the world celebrate women.

This year Women of Faith wanted to celebrate women of courage, strength and resilience from different faiths. There was a sharing of stories of women, who despite circumstances, hardships, challenges, who faced suffering, torture, or death, continued to remain steadfast in their faith, to do what was right, just and fair.

We were reminded, though we have women from history and faith who inspire us, we are in fact surrounded by "sheroes". Those who rise each time they fall, those who stand tall, even if inside they are crumbling. Those who smile even if their hearts are broken, and those who bend but refuse to break. We listened to Dudia (my “sheroe”), share her powerful story of becoming a refugee, having to leave her home, family members, and her beautiful country of Bosnia, when war broke out.

What was most beautiful was that each and every woman had a story to tell and it saddens me that this was my final event as part of the Women of Faith Project. I thank every woman I have had the pleasure of meeting on this journey. I thank you for your love, support and friendship and I thank you for sharing your light.

There is something powerful that happens when women come together; there is change, there is boldness, there is strength, and there is action, all of which is enveloped in nurturing compassion and mercy. I salute you. May we continue in strength and unity.

#IWD2017 #BeBoldforChange

World Book Day 2017

Happy World Book Day 2017.

This arrived from Amazon this morning.

After a year of it not being in distribution, I'm really pleased to share that my book is now available again on Amazon in the UK, EU, and US with the help and support of fellow writer and author Jazmin Kennedy.

I'm truly grateful to Allah for His mercy and blessings.

Please do grab a copy, share with others and leave your reviews. It would be greatly appreciated.

Jazakallahu khair to everyone who has supported me on my journey.

UK/US

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Time-Bed-Zayd-Aisha-Mirza/dp/1544150857