Honorable Mention - Ayesha Thasneem Nagoor Hanifa

That day was a normal day, however, an adventure was awaiting me. I woke up in the morning, prayed Fajr, and did my usual routine. I quickly brushed my hair, slipped on my clothes and headscarf, and climbed down the stairs. 

“Assalmualaikum Mumma!” I said cheerfully to my mother. She was the one that always  cheered me up, even when I was feeling extremely grouchy in the morning. I decided to return the feeling to her at least today Insha Allah. I wanted to grow up to be like her; compassionate. 

“Walaikumassalam Fatinah dear! I sure do wish you woke up well!”

“Yes Mumma, Insha Allah today I can learn new things at school!”

I hurried and finished my breakfast as my little sister walked out of her bedroom. 

“Asamkullah…” she murmured.

My little sister, Yusra, still couldn’t talk properly. I started to respond but my father interrupted me.

“Fatinah, you’re getting late!” Father called. 

“Okay, I’m coming!”

I took my bag and started walking toward the bus stop where I found my best friend, Disha.

“17

I was shocked at this sudden question. Luckily, I had some answers up my sleeve.

“This is a long list you know? It could take a really long time…”

“I’m ready,” Disha said. “It’s not like the bus is coming anytime soon…” 

I giggled at her facial expression and started down the road of answers.

“Did you know that Muhammad (pbuh) was known as the truthful even before he became a prophet?”

“Really, I’ve always thought everything happened after he became one!” 

“The prophet was known as the truthful before because he was the one everyone would give their belongings to. They did this because they knew that he would keep the object safe and return it to the people properly. He gained trust also by giving his money to the poor even when he did not have much.”

“Wow, I really didn't know that!” 

“I know, it’s really inspiring to hear about him! However, I still have a few more things to tell you!”

“The prophet was unlettered; meaning that he could not read or write. Even still, he was the one who delivered the Quran’s message to the people and read it to them.”

“Wow!”

“ I know! One more thing, Prophet Muhammad would do his own chores. Back then, many men would just make the slaves to do the chores. However, he would do his own chores.”

“Tell me more!” Disha exclaimed.

“O-, the bus is here! That’s a story for another day!” 

“Ok, let’s go!”