It's up to God

The Missed

Hafiz stands in the middle of Cairo, right in front of Al Azhar University, a leading educational institution in Egypt and a center for Islamic science. He wore a robe and skullcap, revealing his identity as an Al Azhar student.

Hafiz saw towering skyscrapers around him, reflecting the progress and modernity of Cairo. The scorching sunlight shone on the busy streets with vehicular traffic and the throngs of people passing by.

The atmosphere around Al Azhar University feels alive and full of energy. Students from various majors walk to and fro, discuss, or get busy with their tasks. There was a rumbling sound of sound and typical campus life, where students exchanged knowledge and ideas.

Hafiz felt a burning spirit of learning and desire within him. He is honored and fortunate to be able to study in a place that has such a rich history and tradition as Al Azhar. The institution has been a well-known center of Islamic education for centuries, making it a place full of inspiration and knowledge.

Looking at the modern buildings that stand side by side with the tradition and history surrounding Al Azhar University, Hafiz pondered about his role and responsibilities as a student. He realized that he had a responsibility to study diligently, respect tradition, and apply his knowledge in daily life.

Hafiz felt inspired by the atmosphere around him. He is determined to become an educator who is able to develop his knowledge and make a meaningful contribution to society. He knew that his educational journey at Al Azhar University would provide him with valuable provisions for his future.

With a burning spirit, Hafiz stepped forward, ready to face the challenges that lay before him. Al Azhar and Cairo universities bear witness to his intellectual journey, where Hafiz hopes to achieve personal progress and benefit religion, society and the world around him.

Today Hafiz feels happy and happy after so long without meeting his family, finally longing to be paid off as well. She longs for the warmth of home and for being with loved ones. The news of his cousin's twin sister, made him even more enthusiastic. Moreover, his mother had also given birth to her sister who was abandoned when she wandered. He immediately contacted his family to inform them that he would be coming home soon and meeting them.

After arranging the itinerary, he continued his preparations to return to his hometown.

...***...

A few days later, Hafiz arrived at his house. A joyful atmosphere welcomed his return. He was tightly embraced by his parents, brothers, and other relatives. Cheerful smiles and laughter filled the air, signaling their happiness over his return.

Hafiz soon meets his twin cousin's sister. Hafiz is proud to have two adorable twin sisters. If the word omanya (Fenny), one of them is very similar to his mother Hafiz (Nadira). She is also now a sister because her sister was born. Hafiz's sister is a man. Nadira gave birth to a baby boy one month after Yasmin. The happy news becomes complete when Hafiz can reunite with his beloved family, even though he is only one month off.

During the holidays, Hafiz spent time with his family. They gather to eat together, talk, and share stories. Hafiz felt the warmth and affection of the family that made her feel at home and at ease.

He also used his free time to invite Hamzah to play and share his experiences. They explore interesting places around the Al Fathonah boarding school, cementing their bond as brothers.

"Hey, Hamzah! Come on, let's go out for a while and explore the interesting places around the Al Fathonah boarding school. We can share our experiences and strengthen our bond as brothers as long as I get home." Hafiz took his sister with great enthusiasm.

"Sure, Brother! That sounds fun. Where are we going first?" Hamzah enthusiastically accepted his brother's offer.

"Let's start with the park located near here. There is a beautiful garden with an amazing variety of plants and flowers. We can take a walk there while enjoying the natural atmosphere."

"Good idea, brother! I love flowers and plants. I'm sure the place will be very interesting. We can learn a lot about the flora and fauna around us."

"That's fine, Hamzah. We can also take some photos there to capture our moments together. After that, how about we go to the famous history museum near here?"

"Byeh, Brother! I have always been interested in history. We can learn a lot about the important events that have happened in this area. Who knows we could find interesting facts that were not known before."

"Sure, Hamzah. The historical museum will give us a deeper understanding of the origins of this place and its cultural heritage. In addition, we can also share the knowledge gained there."

"I'm really excited to do it, brother. It will be a fun and rewarding experience for us as brothers."

"I feel the same way, Hamza. Together, we can create unforgettable memories. In addition, this activity will also strengthen our relationship as brothers. We can share stories, laugh together, and support each other."

"I'm lucky to have a sister like you. Thank you for taking me and giving me an amazing experience. Let's start our adventure now!"

"Together, Hamzah. I'm happy to be your sister and share such precious moments. Let's go and explore the interesting places around the Al Fathonah boarding school together!"

Suddenly Hamzah looked down. His spirit disappeared for a moment.

"Why are you suddenly so moody, Dek? I was wrong, right?" asked Hafiz while looking at the face of his sister who is now seven years old, but the style of speech is like an adult.

"But we will have to permission papa and mama first, sister, if you want to get out of the boarding school. Don't want to go to the museum, just want to see the twin sister, we need permission. Moreover, the rules of pesantren are also prohibited from going out, without permission from papa or grandfather."

Hamzah's words have a point, too. Hafiz thought too.

"alright. About the museum, let's forget it. Now we see the flower garden first in this pesantren," said Hafiz, smiling.

"OK, Brother! We're leaving now."

When out of the house they lived in, a house that was deliberately built by Lutfi for Ammar, long before Ammar and Nadira married, and had two sons who were very smart and wise.

"Oh yes, you mentioned the twins. I've never met them in person. How about we invite mom and dad to visit Uak Haikal's house. Go to the museum, another time." Hafiz's idea suddenly changed because he was already impatient to meet his twin sister, Aisha and Aqeela.

After being engrossed in playing and exploring and capturing the moment of togetherness of Hafiz and Hamzah, they also met his grandfather who was in his study. The room was not far from where they played.

"Assalamualaikum," said Hafiz and Hamzah simultaneously. They entered the room. There was their father talking to his grandfather.

The two approached their grandfather and father.

"Vaalaikumussalam, Hafiz, Hamzah. You guys need to be with Grandpa?" ask Lutfi.

Ammar answered the greetings of his two sons.

Hafiz and Hamzah greeted their grandfather and father.

"Yes. We need to be with Grandpa and there happens to be Papa here too" replied Hafiz.

"What do you need?" ask Lutfi.

"Yes, here. It seems very important" Ammar said.

"Emm, but we're bothering Grandpa and Papa, aren't we?" Hafiz's question made Lutfi and Ammar curious.

"It's not bothering you at all, honey. Papa's kids want to talk about what's important, anyway?" ammar asked, inviting his son to sit down. "Oh yeah, sit down, dong."

Hafiz and Hamzah sat facing their father and grandfather.

"We can play at Uak Haikal's house no? Hafiz has never met the twins." Hafiz spoke while looking down. His attitude seemed resigned to the answer that would be received from his father and grandfather.

"I also miss Aisha and Aqeela." Hamzah added to his brother's speech.

"If grandfather, how will your papa say. Personal grandfather, allow it, but the one who has the right to let you go is, papa y'all." Lutfi said wisely. He did not want to be said to be too involved in determining the life of his son's family. He knows, Ammar is a very wise man. I will make the best decision.

"By, dong. But, you can't go both, yes," said Ammar.

"Thank you, Pa, Cake." Hamzah's face was also bright. He can't wait to meet his twin cousin.

"Hafiz also thanked Grandpa very much" said Hafiz. Now changing, he hugged his grandfather.

Hafiz sat back.

"Oh yeah, by the way, what are Papa and Grandpa talking about? I saw that when we came, it seemed serious," asked Hafiz, changing the subject.

"We are talking about the improvement and development of the Al Fathonah pesantren. Grandfather was one of the senior administrators of this pesantren, so his opinions and advice were very valuable" Ammar replied.

"Yes, right. We are discussing some steps that can be taken to improve facilities and programs in the pesantren. We want to provide a better environment and wider educational opportunities for students here" Lutfi said.

"That's very nice, Cake. The Al Fathonah pesantren is a place that means a lot to us. We both also want to contribute to developing this pesantren" said Hafiz.

"Yes, Grandpa. We want to help preserve the ancestral heritage and have a positive impact on the santri here. What can we do?" ask Hamzah.

"You both have incredible talent and passion. There are many ways you can do it. For example, you can help organize social events in pesantren, or share your knowledge with other students in the field you are good at." Ammar advised wisely.

Lutfi also added a suggestion from Ammar.

"In addition, you can also inspire and guide your younger siblings. As brothers, you have an important role to play in shaping their personality and positive values."

"We'll do it, Cake. We both want to set a good example for the students and help them grow and develop well in this pesantren environment" said Hafiz with a tempestuous spirit.

"That's fine, Cake. We will both work hard and try to give the best for this pesantren. We thank you for your advice and support" Hamzah said with confidence and passion.

"We are very proud of you both. With your passion and dedication, papa believes this pesantren will continue to grow and provide great benefits for many people. Let's continue to work together to achieve this goal." Ammar raised his right hand with a clenched finger.

"Alright, let us together contribute and maintain this spirit of togetherness. The Al Fathonah pesantren is home to all of us and with our collective efforts we will see its incredible growth" Lutfi said.

Hafiz and Hamzah responded and promised, "God's Insha, Cake. We'll try our best."

...***...

In the afternoon, Hafiz and Hamzah were at Haikal's house. They were escorted by the driver because Ammar still had work to do. Nadira came with her two children because she also missed the twins.

"At last we got to Uak Haikal's house. It's been a long time since we've met him, Uak Yasmin, and the twins" Nadira said.

"That's a big deal, Ma. I miss them all. It's great to be reunited with them" said Hafiz, who first set foot in Haikal's home a few years later.

The children of Haikal happened to be playing in the courtyard of their house which was as vast as a palace. Naturally, their house is magnificent, Haikal is a famous restaurant owner. So, it is very easy to build a house like a royal palace.

Nadira approaches the twins. Aisha and Aqeela welcomed her aunt and cousin with happiness. Yasmin was inside the house. Read a book while enjoying a snack.

Hearing the twins scream, Yasmin left the house.

"Eh, there's Aunt Nadira. How are you, Nad?" yasmin asked while talking to her sister-in-law.

Yasmin's eyes were fixed on a boy in black dress.

"It's Hafiz, right, huh?" yasmin asked, doubtful.

Hafiz greeted Yasmin with a smile.

"Yes, Uak. It's Hafiz."

"Gee, long time no see, your height is now like your papa. Allah Masyaa. The more handsome my nephew is," Yasmin said, praising.

Hafiz smile.

"Oh yeah, Hamzah how did he learn? His father is not afraid?" ask Yasmin.

"It's bad, not really, Uak. But papa is indeed a firm person," replied Hamzah.

"Oh yeah, go in first, yuk!" take Yasmin.

They entered and enjoyed the snacks provided by Yasmin while talking and laughing together. Although Ammar and Haikal are not there, but their togetherness makes the atmosphere warm and full of happiness.

While the kids play. Nadira and Yasmin chat.

"Oh yes, Nad. You said you were working on your third book. Where's the stage?" ask Yasmin who is also a hobby of reading books.

"Yes, Brother. Still working, here. The story is not finished. God willing, it will be finished."

During the holidays, Hafiz felt infinite happiness. She feels grateful to have a family that has always supported and loved her. Nadira was grateful, everything was as expected. Hafiz and Hamzah quickly get along. So did the twins (Aisha and Aqeela) who were immediately familiar with Hafiz.

As it was late afternoon, Nadira and her two sons returned home.

"Well, really fast, Auntie," said Aisha.

"Yes, here! Though Aqeela still want to play with Kak Hafiz and Adek Hamzah. Brother Hafiz is very good," said Aqeela.

"So we were taught to read short suras. Hafiz's sister's got a good salary." Aisha added her sister's sentence by praising Hafiz's cleverness.

"I'm sorry, honey. We'll be here again, yeah. Or, you can ask papa to take you to the boarding school" said Nadira.

"Then Aqeela wants to stay in the pesantren as well, so she can meet Kak Hafiz and Adek Hamzah every day" Aqeela said.

"Yes. Me too," said Aisha.

Nadira and Yasmin looked at each other. They seem to be one thought.

"Honey. Beautiful mom's kids. Mama's happy to hear you guys want to stay at the boarding school, but if you want to play, you don't allow it. If you want to learn with Om Ammar, the new mama agrees. I would agree with Mom." Yasmin tried to give understanding to her two daughters.

Aisha and Aqeela started thinking about her mother's sentence. Because the day was getting late, Nadira and her two sons also said goodbye.

...****...