My parents were married for 55 years—two beautiful years together before Allah blessed them with me. Their bond has always been something I cherished deeply. My father taught me how to fish—literally and spiritually. He inspired me to become an Electrician, teaching me the value of hard work, dignity, and dedication. He ran his own successful electrical business until illness made it impossible for him to continue. When my father’s health declined severely, the weight on my mother grew heavier, and on Friday, November 21st, 2025, he returned to Allah. His loss has changed our lives forever.

My parents live in Queens while I am in Pittsburgh, caring for my own family. As their only son—and as a Muslim—I understand that in Islam, the rights of parents over their children are sacred and carry immense weight; caring for them, honoring them, and being present for them—especially in their time of need—is not just a responsibility but an act of worship that brings one closer to Allah. In addition to this, I serve as the Imam of Masjid al-Mu’min of Pittsburgh, a father, and a grandfather. However, like many Imams in smaller communities, I do not earn a salary for my service. We serve for the sake of Allah, but it requires us to work full-time jobs outside of the masjid, which is often counterproductive but necessary for survival. This recent situation with my father’s passing has made it nearly impossible for me to maintain that balance.

With my mother now alone, she needs my presence in New York to ease the transition through this unexpected event. This means leaving my family and my community behind for an indefinite time to fulfill my duty to her. This responsibility brings emotional weight and financial strain. I am reminded of these verses:

“And We have enjoined upon man (care) for his parents. His mother carried him (increasing her) in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the (final) destination. But if they endeavour to make you associate with Me that of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them, but accompany them in (this) world with appropriate kindness and follow the way of those who turn back to Me (in repentance)…”

[Qur’an 31:14-15]

I appreciate everyone who sees me as their brother and teacher because your brother and teacher needs you now more than ever.

May Allah reward you immensely on top of all the support you have already shown me and my family. Ameen