I have been called many things: an optimist, strong, patient, tough. The truth is, what I really feel I am, is blessed. And I share this with you to remind you how very blessed you are, too -- even when it might not seem like it.

Whenever afflicted by some calamity or test, one may choose to reflect upon the story of the passing away of Ibrahim, the son of our beloved Prophet Muhammad, may peace and blessings be upon him. Anas bin Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated: "We went with Allah's Apostle to the blacksmith, Abu Saif, and he was the husband of the wet-nurse of Ibrahim. Allah's Apostle, peace and blessings be upon him, took Ibrahim and kissed him and smelled him and later we entered Abu Saif's house and at that time Ibrahim was taking his last breaths, and the eyes of Allah's Apostle started shedding tears. Abdur Rahman bin Auf said: 'O Allah's Apostle, even you are weeping!' The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, replied: 'Oh Ibn Auf, this is mercy'. Then he wept more and said, 'The eyes are shedding tears and the heart is grieved, and we will not say except what pleases our Lord. Oh Ibrahim! Indeed we are grieved by your separation'." (Sahih Al-Bukhari)