Seeking Allah With Every Breath

Advice from Habib Ali al-Habashi (may Allah have mercy upon him and benefit us by him)

I encourage you to organise your time to prevent a single breath (which is in reality a priceless jewel) from being wasted. Allot for yourself a portion of time in which you recite the Qur’an, a portion of time in which you remember Allah and a portion of time in which you reflect upon the immense blessings that Allah has bestowed upon you and upon His creation. If you are able to allot a time every day in which you are alone with your Lord and you take yourself to account then this is very good. The Greatest Beloved (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said: “Call yourselves to account before you are called to account.” Whoever prepares for the next life by calling themselves to account here, will have an easier reckoning there.

Apportion for yourself a time in which you read the books of Tasawwuf, a time in which you keep the company of the pious, a time in which you visit your brothers for the sake of Allah and a time in which you reflect upon your actions. Seek forgiveness from Allah for any wrong action.

Know, my brother, that in every breath and at all times there are secrets and gifts which descend from the Divine Presence to hearts that are prepared to receive them. So prepare for them by purifying your heart from all types of filth, by being constantly focused on Allah and by throwing aside everything other than Allah. The one who receives these gifts will attain everything that they could hope for. That which comes from the Divine outpouring cannot be described by words.

Rely upon your Lord and witness truly that He is the Giver and the Provider. I warn you against desiring what other people possess, for this is an incurable disease. Instead, raise your gaze to the One in Whose hand is the provision of the whole of creation.