🌈 1340 – Monday, 21 April 2025 – 11:22

London

I’m sitting at my desk wondering where all the time went. When the Easter break started, I had one goal: spend the whole four days at the desk and get everything done. But of course, life had other plans — you still have to meet people, eat, look after yourself, and try to stay happy. I’ve at least stuck to my routine of spending a solid three hours at the desk each day, so that’s something.

It’s cloudy and a bit chilly outside, so I threw on a jumper.

Woke up around 8:20. First thing I saw was Dad’s good morning prayer message in Urdu. Then a mate texted me a video — some woman who’s been eating toilet paper for 20 years because she likes the taste. People really do have their own odd habits. I didn’t watch it right away, but I eventually did.

He sent another video shortly after and told me to watch it and call him. I said no at first — it was eight minutes long — but he insisted, and it turned out to be a good one. Someone clearly put a lot of thought into it. It spoke to people like me — seekers.

A few minutes later, he sent another one saying the Pope had passed away. Whether true or not, it made me reflect. Pope Francis — a global leader, someone who walked the earth at the same time as us. It made me think: what would it take to carry that kind of energy? That presence? To inspire millions just by being?

I got a message from my brother — Mum’s fifth day of radiation is done. Alhamdulillah, she’s heading home. It was nearly 10 a.m. here, just past noon in Hyderabad.

The weekend itself was good. On Friday, I went to Jumma at the Egyptian Bureau. Later, I met up with Tomi — he wanted to catch up on my three-month trip looking after Mum. The rest of the day was errands, cleaning, and checking in with family. Saturday was similar. Gym in the morning, then two friends came by to lift my spirits.

Sunday, a mate was planning to go to church for Easter Mass. I didn’t want him going alone, so I joined, and invited another friend too. We went to a beautiful little church in Mayfair — only three minutes from my place. It was a lovely service, very welcoming. Afterward, we hung out at mine for the rest of the afternoon.

Last night, I took a bit of time for myself — trying to balance the human need for connection and self-care. I woke up thinking maybe I should’ve done more work, but honestly, it is what it is. I’m learning not to resist where I am on the journey.

So to anyone feeling off or overwhelmed — keep going. You’re not behind. You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. There might still be more to learn, but the timing is right. Just focus on one small step that moves you forward. Don’t dwell on what you didn’t do. Let it go. Protect your peace.

Today, I’m grateful for:

• Getting some writing done and clearing mental clutter this morning.
• Feeling like I can actually manage time well today.
• This photo on my desk — a city view from a high-rise. A reminder of perspective and possibility.

And I wonder…
What would it take for us to wake up tomorrow 10x stronger, more energetic, confident, and grateful? To start the day at 5 a.m., smash a good workout, be on time, have everything okay with the people we love, and still have a peaceful, productive day?

Let’s find out.

Goodnight, good luck.
Ash Khaleem