It's up to God

Morning Star

Like a star emitting its light in the darkness, Hafiz has etched his brilliant mark on Cairo. He is a colorful rainbow in the desert of academic life. With his perseverance and intelligence, he became a bright sparkle for Al Azhar University.

Like a chosen pearl in the sea of knowledge, Hafiz stepped valiantly in the path of Tafsir and 'Ulumul Qur'an. He was the proud milestone of Ushuluddin Faculty, adorning the ceiling of science with his glorious achievements. As long as four years passed with time, he had carved out a success story that would never fade.

In the saturation and challenges hidden in every corner of the campus, Hafiz remains standing firm. Like a hero in the battlefields of science, he won small battles in order to achieve his academic goals. All the struggle and sweat poured is not in vain, because behind all that, hidden precious gifts that want to be given to both parents.

In a time-spinning dance, Hafiz recounts an amazing journey. He was an eagle that flew high in the sky of hope, flapping its wings with unshakable vigor and tenacity. He knew that the gift to both his parents was not material, but rather the pride and happiness that flowed profusely in their hearts.

Now, at a new point of travel, Hafiz sighed in satisfaction. He has given his parents priceless gifts: the fruits of his labors, lightning achievements, and burning hope. Although the future brings new challenges, she knows that she has provided a strong foundation for herself and her family.

In the ongoing life story, Hafiz is a brilliant story writer. He wrote chapter after chapter with tenacity and a burning spirit. Sometimes words darken, but he knows that it is in darkness that the brightest stars shine. The star, in its glorious form, is Hafiz himself.

"Thank God, thank God, Hafiz graduated as the best student and exemplary with GPA 4, Ma, Pa," Hafiz said when connected to a video phone network to Mama and her Papa.

Seen, Nadira's eyes glazed, although unable to watch directly and hug his son in real, but the tears of Nadira already represented how proud he was with his eldest son.

"Congratulations, son. My mother was confused as to what to say to you. The point is, mama is proud of you, Hafiz," Nadira said while wiping away her flowing tears.

"Papa is also very proud of you, son," Ammar said with a thumbs up. He smiled proudly.

"Thank you, Ma, Pa. Maybe this is what is called the fruit falling not far from the tree" said Hafiz while showing the charter of appreciation received. "It's all for you, Ma, Pa, and all my family."

Not long after, Hamzah who used to be left was still a child by Hafiz, now a teenager, joined nimbrung. If Hamzah is already a teenager, it means that his twin cousins (Aisha and Aqeela) are already teenagers.

"Wow, Hamza! It has been a long time since we met. You're a teenager now, aren't you? Time really passes quickly," said Hafiz who was amazed to see his sister.

"Yes, dong, Brother Hafiz! Childhood continues," replied Hamzah with his still adorable style of speech, never changing, only his age increased. "I'm entering my teenage years now. It feels like just yesterday we were playing around in the yard of Oma's house and surrounding the grandfather's boarding school which is somehow how many hectares this, because I have not measured it," said Hamzah. It makes everyone laugh.

"It doesn't really feel like how fast time goes by. How are our twin cousins, Aisha and Aqeela? They must have been teenagers too. Very similar to you guys," said Hafiz.

"of course! Aisha and Aqeela are also in their teens. They both grew up well, getting smarter and more beautiful. The two of them often cause a stir at home with his excitement," Hamzah replied with a frenzy.

"Aisha and Aqeela have always been energetic and cheerful since childhood. I miss seeing them again. How do they live their teenage days?" asked Hafiz who was increasingly enthusiastic about listening to the development of his younger siblings' growth.

"They were both very active in school and various extracurricular activities. Aisha is interested in the art of music and often plays guitar, while Aqeela focuses more on sports activities, especially swimming. They both have different talents and interests, but still compact and support each other." Hafiz recounted shrewdly, because he understood the growth of his twin cousin. Although they rarely meet, Hafiz and the twins often exchange news.

"That's so awesome! They really have incredible passion and dedication. I wish I could spend time with them again, like we used to, even though my time in Indonesia is always a bit, but we really make the best possible use of time to get together and play together," hafiz said with a burning spirit.

"Surely they miss you a lot too, Hafiz. We talked a lot about you and your trip to Cairo. Aisha and Aqeela are so proud to have a cousin as great as you."

"Thank you, Hamzah. I also miss all the wonderful moments with you. Hopefully one day we can get together again and make new memories together."

"Surely, Brother! We will wait for that moment patiently. Until that time comes, let's keep in touch and share our stories through messages and video calls."

"Of course, we must not lose our bond despite the distance separating. I am so grateful to have a family like you. We remain one family despite being in different places."

"See you, Hamzah! Give my regards to Aisha and Aqeela. May you all always be healthy and happy" said Hafiz closing his conversation with Hamzah.

The phone was given to Hamzah's mother and father because he had scheduled to enter the class.

"Oh yeah, when are you coming back to Indonesia, son?" asked the impatient Nadira to meet, hug, and kiss his eldest son.

Ammar raised his eyebrows when he saw Hafiz's changed expression, from cheerful to moody. "You why? Is there a problem?" he asked calmly despite the sense of concern that arose.

"Ma, Pa, there's news I want to share with you. After completing S1, I have been awarded a scholarship to continue S2 at the same campus in Cairo."

"Oh, what a great news, Hafiz! We're so proud of you. But, what does this mean? Means you will stay in Cairo for a long time and rarely come back to see us and our family members in Indonesia."

"Yes, Pa. I realized that this would separate us for a longer time. But, this scholarship is an opportunity that I cannot miss. I want to continue to pursue new knowledge and experiences."

"We understand, Son. You always have a strong spirit in pursuing your goals. But, we are also worried about your cost of living there. How can you handle it?"

"Ma, I got a job while living in Cairo. Even though you guys haven't sent money for my living expenses, at least I have my own income. I will do my best to manage my finances and ensure my survival here."

"That's good news, Hafiz. We believe you can manage everything well. But don't forget that our family here has always supported you and loved you. We will miss you every day" Nadira said with a heavy sigh, but he had to stay strong when he saw his son's spirit in learning.

"Thank you, Ma, Pa. I'll miss you guys too. But this is not a goodbye forever. I will always contact you and share stories of my travels and accomplishments here."

"We will always support you, son. Do not hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Remember that family is where you go home, wherever you are."

"I'll always remember that, Ma. Thank you for all the support and love you give. I will try my best and make you even more proud of me."

"We're sure you'll make it, Hafiz. Be the light that shines in a new land. We will always pray for you and wait for your presence to come back next to your beloved family."

"Thank you, Pa. Hafiz promised to make the most of this opportunity and will continue to strive to achieve my dreams. I'm so lucky to have a family like you."

Nadira and Ammar nodded. The tears of Nadira shed endless. In addition to being moved by the success of his son, he could not resist the longing to meet Hafiz.

"Oh yeah, say hello to everyone, Ma, Pa." Hafiz ended their conversation.

In an atmosphere full of togetherness and love, Hafiz and his family strengthen each other. Despite the distance separating them, but the strength of their family bond remains unshakable. They are determined to go through this separation in the belief that Hafiz's success will be a pride and happiness for all of them.

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