The morning sun filtered through the stained glass windows of the church, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the hallway. Maria paced nervously in her room, clutching her notebook filled with notes from her conversation with Ayesha the previous night. She had been waiting for Catherine to join her so she could share her thoughts.
When Catherine finally arrived, she was carrying a small tray of tea. She placed it on the table and looked at Maria, noticing her unease.
"Maria, what's going on? You've been unusually quiet this morning," Catherine asked, sitting down and gesturing for Maria to join her.
Maria hesitated but then sat across from her. "Catherine, I've been thinking a lot about Agnes—Ambreen—and what Ayesha said. She mentioned that reburial is an option for us to honor Agnes's faith, but…" She paused, searching for the right words. "I don't know how to approach Father Robert about this."
Catherine's expression turned serious. She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "Maria, you know how rigid Father Robert can be about matters of faith. This… this would be a huge shock to him. Convincing him won't be easy. In fact, it might be impossible."
Maria nodded, her heart sinking. "But Agnes deserves to be honored for who she truly was. I feel like we failed her."
Catherine sighed deeply. "I understand how you feel, Maria, but think about it. We don't know how Father Robert will react. He might see it as a betrayal or worse. And if we don't have solid evidence, he could dismiss it entirely. This isn't just about you and me—it could bring trouble for everyone in the church."
Maria stared at her hands, her mind racing. "Then what do we do? How do we honor her memory if reburial isn't an option?"
Catherine placed a comforting hand on Maria's shoulder. "You could focus on the second option Ayesha suggested—prayers and charity work. That way, you can still honor Agnes without creating conflict. And, Maria…" She hesitated, then continued, "I'd advise you not to bring this up with Father Robert. At least, not now. It's too risky."
Maria reluctantly agreed, though her heart was heavy. "You're right. I'll focus on what I can do. But it feels like a compromise."
Catherine smiled gently. "Sometimes, compromise is necessary. You're doing this out of love and respect for Agnes. That's what matters."
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A Night of Reflection
That evening, Maria sat alone in her room, staring at her laptop. She opened her email and saw a reply from Ayesha. Without hesitation, she clicked on it.
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From: Ayesha Yousaf
To: Maria
Subject: Re: Update
Dear Maria,
I'm glad you're seeking clarity and trying to do what's best for Agnes. Please, feel free to share what's on your mind. I'll do my best to guide you.
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Maria took a deep breath and began typing.
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Maria:
Dear Ayesha,
Thank you for your patience and guidance. I spoke with my friend Catherine about the possibility of reburial, but we both feel it's too risky to bring up with Father Robert. He's not someone who easily accepts changes or challenges to his authority.
For now, I've decided to focus on prayers and charity work for Agnes. I hope that will be enough to honor her memory. But it feels incomplete, like I'm not doing enough. What does Islam say about situations like this?
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Within minutes, a new notification popped up. Ayesha had replied.
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Ayesha:
Maria, you're doing the right thing by approaching this thoughtfully. In Islam, intentions hold great value. If reburial isn't possible, focusing on prayers and charity work is a beautiful way to honor Ambreen's memory.
You can offer "duas" (supplications) for her, asking Allah to forgive her and grant her a place in paradise. Charity, or "sadaqah," in her name will also benefit her soul. Even small acts of kindness can make a difference.
As for your feelings of incompleteness, remember that Allah knows what's in your heart. He sees your efforts and your sincerity. Trust in Him and continue on this path.
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Maria read the email carefully, her eyes lingering on the words "trust in Him." She felt a sense of relief wash over her, though the weight of responsibility still lingered.
She typed another message.
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Maria:
Thank you, Ayesha. Your words bring me comfort. I'll do my best to follow your advice. I hope Agnes—Ambreen—would have approved of these efforts.
Ayesha:
I'm sure she would, Maria. And remember, you're not alone in this. If you ever need support or guidance, I'm here for you.
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Maria closed her laptop and sat back, staring at the ceiling. She whispered a silent prayer, asking for strength and wisdom.
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Moving Forward
The next morning, Maria joined Catherine in the dining hall for breakfast.
"I emailed Ayesha last night," Maria said, breaking the silence.
Catherine looked up from her plate. "What did she say?"
"She said that intentions matter most. If reburial isn't possible, prayers and charity work are enough. She also mentioned something called 'duas'—supplications for the soul. I think I'll start with that."
Catherine smiled. "That sounds like a good plan. Small steps, Maria. You're doing what you can, and that's all anyone can ask."
Maria nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. She resolved to honor Agnes's memory in every way she could, even if it meant taking small, quiet steps.
In her heart, she knew this was only the beginning of a much larger journey—a journey of faith, understanding, and love.