During my pilgrimage to the sacred land of Iraq, I found myself deeply moved as I stood before the radiant golden shrine of Imam Ali (AS); a moment that stirred the soul and humbled the heart. Amid this spiritual immersion, I was blessed with the rare opportunity to meet Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Sistani (HA).
Surrounded by a circle of devoted students and esteemed scholars, I humbly joined their gathering. One of the students graciously introduced me, and Ayatollah Sistani turned toward me with a gaze full of wisdom and compassion. He offered me three profound pieces of advice that continue to echo in my heart:
Cling firmly to your Islamic identity, especially while living in the West, where faith is often tested.
Raise your children with moral clarity, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (AS).
Establish schools that not only educate minds but shape hearts, nurturing souls with values and purpose.