Last week, I had the opportunity to read “The Stories in Her Eyes”, a book of reflections from a Muslim North American woman’s point of view. Mariam Gadala, the author of the book, has beautifully woven her observations and experiences while she grew up in Vancouver as a practicing Muslim and later as a mother. While our circumstances may have been quite different, Mariam’s writing struck a special chord with me, in particular, the first part “The Teenager”. I have had many of these conversations , often in my head, while I was growing up in Canada and felt many of the emotions conveyed in Mariam’s writing. I asked Mariam to share a little bit more about herself for our readers. You can contact Mariam on Facebook (Mariam M. Gadala) or through Instagram @mariam.m.gadala.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Mariam M. Gadala; born in Detroit, USA, and brought up in Vancouver, Canada. I have a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and English Language from the University of British Columbia; and a Masters of Education in Educational Administration from Acacia University.
I taught Language Arts and History for the past decade to high school and university students in various cities around the world covering three different continents. I am a proud wife and mother of Aya, Ibrahim and Jumana.
When did you start writing?
English writing essays were my favourite, ever since high school. The nature of my education involved a lot of writing; however, I only started free verse poetry writing about 6 years ago.
What was your inspiration?
I believe writing free verse poetry began as a form of therapy and developed into empathy. I experienced unique challenges in my twenties and hope to voice some of the lessons I learned through simple and concise reflections.
What is your writing process?
When I feel a stir of emotions from a specific topic, current event or an experience, I start to jot down notes. I find that these sparks can interrupt my daily routine at anytime and anywhere. This is why there are notes on my phone, fridge or notepad. As soon as I get a peaceful moment, I light my candle, pour my tea and type my heart out. I then revise, edit, revise, edit, revise, edit… and share.
What advice do you have for others who wish to write?
Be honest and express from your heart.
Be patient and trust your writing style.
Be clear and have a meaningful vision.
*The Recipe*
Level out every cup,
Add that pinch and this dash.
Sauté before the oven,
Don’t add too much lemon.
…Voila! What a meal.
Hold on to how you feel,
After following that recipe.
So when your soul remind you,
To follow Quran and Sunnah,
In every kind of detail,
You don’t argue.
Don’t give excuse,
To not add that cup, pinch or dash.
Don’t let the world take you,
And make you forget why you are here.
If you want the same satisfaction,
You felt during devouring that meal,
Wouldn’t you say following life’s recipe,
Would be a good way to persevere?
By: Misbah Naseer
