In Honour of Ali Faris Muhammad - Helping Orphans in Iraq

Written by his Father, Dr Faris Muhammad

"My beloved son... the light of my eyes and the joy of my heart... Ali

Ali was a flame of life that never dimmed-a presence full of love and purity. His heart was as white as snow, and his spirit as gentle as a breeze. Yes, he was a bit mischievous, but the kind of mischief that melts hearts and brings laughter to the soul. He wasn't fond of school, yet I insisted he complete his education-and, true to his nature, he rose to the challenge like the hero l always knew he was. He persevered and earned a degree in Business Administration from Hertfordshire University.

But his dreams were never confined to the ink of certificates. He turned ambition into action, building his own legacy from the ground up. He founded several companies through his own efforts-most notably a car rental company, and another in courier, among others. His success wasn't his alone-he extended a helping hand to hundreds of friends, guiding and supporting them in building their own businesses. He became a role model to many. The proof? More than 400 of his beloved friends and loyal companions gathered to bid him farewell, flooding the street in a mourning procession that felt more like a march of love. All this because his heart was truly larger than life.

Ali... my brave son...

He never hurt anyone, never lifted a weapon-yet he was taken from us by betrayal, martyred while defending his friend. He died a courageous man, like a towering mountain shielding those around him. He was a support to his parents, a refuge to his siblings-they would run to him before anyone else when they needed help or comfort.

And today, with a heart full of sorrow, I ask you all... Please recite Al-Fatiha for him, and pray for his mercy and forgiveness. He truly deserves every goodness in this life and the next-for the purity of his heart, and the beauty of his soul.

May God have mercy on you, Ali... May He forgive you and grant you the highest place in Paradise..."