Looking at this image of a paper boat, I couldn’t help but smile. It spoke volumes to me, which its description certainly couldn’t have. Words somehow limit my imagination. I can barely explore that which is beyond what’s being said.
Although I like to write, I feel moved when looking at a painting or a sculpture more than after reading a piece of writing. It’s amazing the way our mind has been created and the power it holds, and how different people respond differently to various modes of interaction, subhanAllah. There are endless possibilities to where our imagination can take us, and how intricately complex thoughts can be simplified into beautiful cohesive visuals or words by this little part of our body called the brain.
Despite knowing about the various modes of interaction, the incredible fact remains that we humans, in reality, are aware of only some of the methods of communication. Allah alone knows how many more ways He (izza wa jal) has fashioned for His creation to perceive, observe, understand, transmit and connect that might still be undiscovered by humans. After all, His creation can reach only that level of knowledge that has been allowed by the source of knowledge, Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala).
I personally feel that art is one of the most effective styles of communication not only for a seasoned artist, an amateur one or even a layperson. Unfortunately, art is either mostly confined to art galleries or the houses of the elite. I believe that it is a versatile creative language that cannot be restricted by any geographical boundaries or any specific time. It is a universal language and a blessing indeed when used in the right way to serve the right reasons.
Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) has created each one of us as a unique individual with our exclusive qualities accompanied with a drive to make use of them to do something meaningful and productive in this life regardless of where we come from. However, the drive to achieve something significant turns into a frustration when we ignore it.
There can be a million reasons for not being productive such as, lethargy, lack of support or discouragement from others, lack of confidence or low self-esteem or even lack of resources. Regardless of what your reason might be, understand that you alone, with the help of Allah, can overcome your internal fears and then combat the external obstacles but this can only happen if you resolve to identify and face your doubts in the first place. Self-improvement is the key to reclaiming your self-confidence.
First, though, you must discover your hidden talent, nurture it consistently, pursue it gradually with patience, trust Allah to help you if what you are seeking will gain you His pleasure, seek His help through dua and tawakkal and remember the basic rule of ABC; Aspire, Believe, Commit.
Perspective 