Hashtags aside, I feel that I miss out on a lot while on campus. Often, I stay on campus during the weekend to study for an exam. My family and extended family throw many parties over the weekend that I miss. I see pictures on Facebook the next day, and see posts by my sisters and cousins. I think, "Wow, I can't believe I missed that!" I miss out on the good news of when a cousin is getting married, having a baby, or just any general topics, and it really annoys me!
When I do go home, my sisters, cousins, and I usually hang out. We go to the mall, see a movie, or have a sleep over. Saturday comes full of errands. I go to a weekly Saturday halaqah, go to the store, and do other things. Then my dad usually drops me back off to campus Sunday mornings.
Sometimes we forget in our busy lives how important and great our parents are. They literally would sacrifice anything for us. Many of our parents immigrated from their homelands. They left their families behind in hope of a better life. We need to cherish our time with them and appreciate them. Yeah, we may not always get along with our families or agree with their views, but at the end of the day they will always be there. They will always be a constant in our life. So strengthen your family ties so that your family can always be YOUR strength! :)
-Hiba Durrani
Loyola University Chicago