Sunday, May 25, 2008

A profile of Najma Ghouse

http://mikeghouseforamerica.blogspot.com/2008/05/profile-of-najma-ghouse.html


Najma Ghouse; the final journey here

Najma Ghouse Passed away on Thursday the 22nd of May 2008, and leaves behind a legacy of purposeful life, full of good will and thousands of friends who mourn her passing deeply and will miss her terribly.

Najma was born in Hyderabad, India on November 18, 1947. She was raised in Karachi, Pakistan and spent most of her adult life (35 Years) in Dallas area. She is survived by her Mother, who is 80 now, three daughters, a grand daughter, four grand sons, four brothers, three sisters and a grieving husband. A total family of 57 members, all but nine live in Carrollton Texas.

She was diagnosed for ovarian cancer on August 14, 2007. Surgery for Peritoneal Cancer was done on August 29, 2008. The Chemotherapy regimen appeared to work. A very virulent form of Cancer returned and Chemotherapy started again. On May 8th the family agreed to the in home hospice program. After two weeks at home, on Thursday, May 22nd at 7:20 PM, she peacefully took her last breath and embarked on her eternal Journey.

Najma was stoic, she had prepared for this journey, she had jettisoned the anxieties and the desires of worldly living. She was content with the purposeful life she lived, and grateful to the creator for enriching her with a full spectrum of life experiences from serene bliss to utter sadness, loneliness to being loved. No wonder she passed away with a smile on her face, as if saying, I have successfully completed my life as an individual, a woman, mother, sister, daughter, grand mother and a wife and now I need to experience the eternal life.

Najma and husband Mike have lived in Carrollton since 1999. Najma's daughter Farah lives in New York, Uzma with her husband Sultan and two kids live in Dubai and Erum and her husband Sabir live with their three kids in Lewisville. Mike's son Jeff goes to the Law school at SMU and daughter Mina will be going to UTD.

Najma's legacy – The Spirit of Volunteerism

Her dearest and last project was, developing a shelter for the disadvantaged and women in distress, particularly immigrants, who were not fully integrated in to the society. The process had just begun and she held a meeting at her house in Carrollton in March this year.

Her joy was in helping set up the free Medical clinic for the uninsured as a service of the Islamic Association of North Texas. Today the clinic opens three days a week and serves a large number of patients a month.

She was deeply involved in "Bazm-e-Urdu" a literary poets group in Dallas started by her father. She participated in 35 International "Musha-Era's" (Poetry recitation sessions) with some of the most celebrated poets in the language from across the globe.
The spirit of Volunteerism

She reveled in giving and was rewarded by that internal happiness. She served all in need, irrespective of race, color, religion or age.

She is fondly remembered for organizing nearly thirty free community health fairs.

Najma was blessed with an open mind and an open heart. She was proud to have served the Annual Spelling bee conducted by the DFW Hindu Temple, Qaid Mela's of Pakistan Society, Dinner events of Chambers of Commerce, the Lions Club, The Muslim Community Center, Red Cross, the United Way and other organizations. To her every human being deserved caring.

Najma won the hearts of thousands of Dallas émigrés from South Asia; the people from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka through her radio programs since 1996. Her program "Yadien aur Choti Choti Batien" was hugely popular. She weaved beautiful songs with life's little things that make life worth living.

She was one of the first commercial South Asian Radio co-broadcasters in Dallas; the program was called Asian News Radio in 1996 on AM Radio 1150. She also co-anchored the first Desi TV program in 1996 on TV 52 in the DFW Market.

The Golden Oldies and Golden Melodies was a memorable program that Najma and I shared with some 200 of our friends, several times in the late Nineties. It was down the memory lane, living in the imaginary yester years for a few pleasant hours.

Najma was a master of ceremonies for many of the biggest Bollywood concerts in town, especially with Lata Mangeshkar, Shahrukh Khan, Aishwariya Rai, Aamir Khan, Amit Kumar, Salman Khan, Asha Bhosle, Kumar Sanu, Sonu Nigam and just about every big star. The most cherished moment for Najma was when Lataji, the Saraswati of Indian singers praised her emceeing, her command on the language and her voice to the point that Farida Jalal, the international emcee stepped back and gave the Microphone to Najma to continue emceeing. Asha Bhosle repeatedly admired Najma's manner of speaking.

She was the master of Ceremonies at the annual thanksgiving celebrations and has presided over many of the annual events for the Pakistan Society, Muslim Community Center, Lions Club and several civic organizations.

Najma had an eternal reverence for her teacher Ms. Safia Khan at Newtown High School in Karachi, Pakistan. She credited Ms. Khan for instilling discipline and determination to serve the mankind. She must have been a great teacher and an inspirer.

Najma Ghouse was a committed Citizen. Committed to serving the community, she ran for the Carrollton City council and would have won, had some of her supporters did not assume that she will win and not go to polls.

She was a Medical technologist by profession and switched to serving the real estate industry in the last decade as it allowed her to volunteer.

She was one of the founding members of the Texas Muslim Women's Foundation; she served on the boards of Red Cross, Pakistan Society and the Muslim Community Center for human services.

She was accorded the title “Ambassador for peace” by the Inter religious and international federation for world peace. She had the honor of emceeing the Dallas event for Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon upon her 72 nation peace mission, and had the distinct honor of Garlanding the first couple Rev. Sun Myung Moon and Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon.

Najma was a big part of the Cricket scene in Dallas. She had co-sponsored several tournaments and was the co-commentator at the first largest Cricket tournament in Dallas "The MG Gold cup" in 1996. The tournament boosted Cricket in Dallas area and gave birth to North Texas Cricket Association.

She had a green thumb; the summer of 2007 provided the family with fresh Tomatoes, Okra, Egg Plants, Dill, green peppers, coriander leaves, mint, green onions, peaches, figs, beans and much more from her Garden.

She enjoyed visits to Dallas Arboretum. Visiting a running creek in Salado had become a sacred trip to us. Driving to Tyler and singing along the Golden Oldies was her way of enjoying life.

She performed Hajj, one of the duties of a Muslim, once in a life-time. She also recited the Shahadah, the pledge that God alone is worthy of worship and Prophet Muhammad was God's messenger several times during her last few days and particularly on the last day. It is considered a purifying statement by Muslims.

She let go of things and attained her freedom, Nijaat, Mukti, Moksha and Nirvana. May God bestow his mercy on her. Amen.

Najma and I shared good and bad times, sadness and happiness, nothingness to bountifulness, turbulence to serenity and above all a deep love. On Wednesday, as I was stepping out, she called my name, I turned around and looked at her; she said "I love you". That love will sustain me. Thank you Najma.

Mike Ghouse
http://www.mikeghouse.net/


COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM FRIENDS _____________________________________________________



We appreciate our friends for their personal phone calls, visits, emails and some comments;
From Santha and GK Kalyanram


Santha and I send our prayerful condolences on Najma's passing on.

I knew Najma -- she had all the gifts (obviously, except for longevity) of a wonderful human being and a thoughtful citizen. As some one who has personally confronted untimely loss of a loved one, I know that time, while not a healer (for untimely deaths), will certainly give you an opportunity to regroup your life with the acceptance of the new reality.

We know that Najma is in that "undiscovered place" (as Shakespeare would call it) -- joyous, peaceful and restful.

Najma, in her life reminded of its vitality and possibilities, and in her death Najma reminds us of its fragility and impermanence. And with that realization, we too continue to travel carrying with us a sense of appreciation and gratitude for all that Najma gave us.

As T.S. Eliot used to sing, "In the end, is my beginning." And so, I think, Najma is making a new beginning. Let us wish her all the fortunes as she starts this new journey and sing in the words of vedic hymn (as an eclectic, I know that you will appreciate and embrace this) --
Pashyema sharadashatam
(May Najma see pleasant sights for eternity)
Jiveme sharadashatam
(May Najma live for eternity)
Nanddama sharadashatam
(May Najma enjoy the pleasures of life for eternity)
Modaama sharadashatam
(May Najma enjoy the company of friends and family for eternity)
Bhavaama sharadashatam
(May Najma be illustrious for eternity)
Shrunvaama sharadashatam
(May Najma hear auspicious sounds for eternity)

With prayers.

Santha and GK
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From Dr. Ram Rao

Dear MikeI liked Najma and will miss seeing her with you, whether at Kananda gatherings or elsewhere. The last time I saw her and spoke to her and held her hands, she was hopeful though she knew the challenges she was facing. She was too young to leave us. I hope that the future will see better treatment for these dreaded diseases so that young people can live a fuller life. The days ahead will be difficult for you and your family. I can only wish you thestrength to face them. Be assured we will all remember Najma fondly.
Ramji
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From Dr. Nakadar
Dear Mike:
ASAK,
I wish I could share your grief and sorrow. May Allah (swt) grant her Magferat, an ala place in heaven and patience to you all to bear this unbearable loss. Although I had met her only couple of times, last time on TMO presentation in Dallas, I was impressed with her straightforwardness, simplicity and kindness. She was wonderful a person. Her attempt to run for the city council inspired many women in our community.



May I request you to send me Najma's photograph and couple of paragraph write up that I want to publish in The Muslim Observer under obituary?
Dr. Nakadar
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From Joe & Bishop Riah Abo El-Assal, Jerusalem
Mike,
so very sorry to hear of your loss.
I send you and your loved one feelings and thoughts of peace and healing.
Take care and keep in touch,
our hearts go out to you,
Joe & Rea
Bishop Riah Abo El-Assal
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From Cindy & Ron Branson, Mayor, City of Carrollton
Mike,
Cindy and I were very saddened to hear about Najma. I can only imagine what it feels like to loose someone that close. If we could ease your pain in any way, we would be more than happy to do so.
Blessings to your family.
Ron and Cindy Branson
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From Dr. Sayyid M Syeed, ISNA
Dear Mike,
Assalamu Alaikum,

The inevitable has come. As Allah says in the Quran, when the scheduled time for one's death comes, one can neither bring it a moment before that time, nor postpone it a moment beyond that time. This is something that is not in the hands of us mortals. Allah has taken Najma into His protection. We pray for her Maghfirah (forgiveness) and ask Allah to open the doors of Jannah ( paradise) for her.
We appreciate your heroic patience and endurance during this time of trial for you. Your total devotion to her and you single minded commitment to giving her comfort and solace at a time when she was gracefully preparing for her final departure, was highly commendable. I am sure it must be equally highly rewarding spiritually. May Allah give you patience and give you courage to continue her legacy in a positive direction.

As our Prophet advised us, to perpetuate the memory of our loved ones, we should institutionalize their legacy. We should make sure that their aspirations, ideas, dreams and commitments are translated into long lasting institutions that continue to work for those aspirations and dreams beyond their earthly existence. As a tireless activists husband, it should be your life long commitment to continue strengthen the agenda that she had held dear to herself.

Once again, we pray for patience for you in this time of trial and pray to Allah to give you the strength to get the right lessons from this sad but great experience, and enrich you spiritually with right insights and understanding of life. Ameen

With sincere salaams,
Dr. Sayyid M. Syeed
National Director
Islamic Society of North America
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From TN Nair, Kerala Hindu's Of North America

Dear Mike,
On the behalf of KHNA Trustee Board I would like to convey my deepest condolences. We will pray for the soul of the departed.
Om Namshivaya

T.N.Nair
Chairman
Kerala Hindu's Of North America
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From Mirza A. Beg
Dear Mike
Inna Lillahi wa inna Ilaihi Rajioon To say that I am sad about Najma's passing is an understatement. These are the times that though we want to comfort, but do not find adequate words that would ease the pain.
Your best consolation is the grace, care and love that both of you bestowed on each other when the dire certainty of parting stared you in the face. The deep faith and invaluable conjoined journey you shared sustained both of you and will carry you through in these intensely sad times.
May God grant you and your family peace, and Najma his loving grace and protection! I feel fortunate to have known her. I know today you will be very busy with all the details of the last rites, and final earthly farewell. The next few days will be harder to bear.
It may make a modicum of difference to know that I share in your pain as I have known enough pain know how you much you will miss her. You know that Najma touched many lives and affected the institutions he loved. The void will be felt far and wide and for long. The best tribute we can pay is to redouble our efforts to do what we praise her for.
One can never be adequately prepared for the ultimate parting, even though in the back of our minds we all know that it is right around the corner.
Life is a gift that needs to be cherished, enjoyed and lived with grace and humility. Both of you knew that and lived every moment to its fullest. Her memory will help you continue the struggles both of you considered important that gave meaning to your lives.
With sadness, best wishes and regards,
Mirza
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From Dr Zafarul Islam Khan
Dear Br Ghouse saheb,
Assalamu 'Alaikum.
I am really sorry to learn about the sudden demise of your beloved wife. It surely is not only a personal loss to you but also a loss to the whole Indian community in the US, as Sister Najma was active in social and community service. I offer my personal and All India Muslim Majlis-e Mushawarat's sincere condolences to you and all members of your family and pray to Allah ta'ala for her maghfirath and elevation to the highest quarters of Jannat. Ameen.
With salaam and best regards
Dr Zafarul-Islam Khan
President, All India Muslim Majlis-e Mushawarat
& Editor, The Milli Gazette
New Delhi
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From Rekha & Vijay Gajaria

Mike
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the very untimely demise of Najma baaji. We knew her so very well. It bewilders our minds as to the lila of God. She will always be missed by all of us. And we pray to Lord to give you and your family strength to overcome the loss.
Bhagvad Gita. Verse 2.16
Nasato Vidyate Bhavo
Nabhavo Vidyate Satah
Ubhayor Api Drsto Ntas
Tv anayos tattva-darsibhih

Translation
Those who are the seers of the truth have concluded that of the non existent (material body)
there is no endurance and of the eternal (the soul) there is no change....

Rekha & Vijay
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From Will and Edna Cornell
Our Prayers on your behalf….Insh'Allah the best to you all
Will And Edna Cornell
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From Rohit Chopra
Dear Mike
I am so very sorry to hear about your wife. Please accept my condolences on your loss. I will be thinking about you during this difficult time.
Sincerely
Rohit
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From Salil Tripathi
Dear Mike
My sincerest condolences. Najma was full of courage, as have you been. May the memories give you the strength.
Peace;
Salil
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From John Laxmi
Dear Mike, my sincere condolences. She was lucky to have your love and attention till the end. May God give you the strength to carry on.
John
John Laxmi
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From Rashid & Habiba and Family
Indeed Mike
Inna Lilla hi o Inna Ilaihi ur rajewoon
From God we came and to God we go!
Rashid and Habiba and Family
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From Ram Narayanan
Mike:
I am so sorry to know that your beloved wife passed away.
My heartfelt condolences to you and your children.
May God give you all the strength to bear this irreparable loss!
Yours in sympathy,
Ram Narayanan
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From Bhupen & Neelu Ganatra
Mike
With a shock and irrecoverable sorrow, we accept his decision for departure of Najmaji on her eternal journey. Please accept our condolences. We pray that Lord gives courage to you and your family to bear this loss and that her soul may rest in peace.
Even though physically she is no longer with us, she will always remain with us in spirit.
I am sorry. I did not open my e-mails until just now and therefore could not be there at the Mosque for her last rights.
Mike, take care.
Bhupen and Neelu
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From Ayub Khan
Dear Br. Mike Ghouse,
Assalaam Alaikum
Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajioon. May Allah grant your departed wife the highest stations in Jannah.
I pray for her maghfirah and sabr for your entire family. Ameen.
wassalaam,
Ayub Khan
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From Atiq Khan
Dear Mike, AsA,
Amina and I were all very saddened to hear about Najma's passing away. We offer our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May Allah give you all the patience to bear this loss and may Allah give a place in Jannah to the departed.
Sincerely Yours
Atiq
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From Malik M Ahmed
Dear Mike Ghouse
I received a tragic news inallilah he wa inallilh he rajaoon, our hearts and prayers are with you in this difficult time, may Allah grant her higher place in Janna tul Firdaous.
Please except our deepest condolences on behalf of "Ahmaddiyya Muslim Community".
May Allah provide you and your family Sabr & comfort.
AMEEN
Humbly,
Malik M Ahmed
sec. propagation
chapter DFW
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From Suma Kulkarni
Dear Mike,
We are very sorry to hear about the untimely sad demise of dear Najma! Our heartfelt condolences to you and family! We pray the almighty to give you and family strength to bear the loss of dear Najma. She will be missed profoundly in the community!
Regards,
Suma
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From Imam Zia Shaikh , Irving Masjid
Assalamualaykum,
My condolences, may Allah SWT grant her a high place in Jannah.
Wassalaam
Imam Irving Masjid
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From Ashvini, Bharathi, Sindhu & Arjuna Pandit
Our heartfelt condolences. She served the noble cause.
Ashvini, Bharathi, Sindhu and Arjuna Pandit
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From Ali Rizvi
Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajioon. I pray that Late Najma Ghouse's soul rest in peace and Allah give courage to Mike Ghouse to go through this difficult time.
Ali Rizvi, Boston, MA
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From Dr. Maysoon, Singapore
Inna Lilla hi o Inna Ilaihi ur rajewoon...Allah yerhamha Ameen. Azam Allah Ajrakum wa asknaha naeem aljanah ameen ameen ya rabu alameen.
May God give you the strength to bare your great loss.
Maysoon
_____________________________________________________
From Dr. Zafar Iqbal, Washington DC
My dear Mike, As-Salaam Alaikum
I was saddened to hear the news of Najma’s passing away. Inna Lillahi wa inna Ilaihi wa rajewoon.
Our thoughts are with you and your loved ones during this difficult time of loss.
I know that your great strength will help you get through this saneha.
Remember, "Those who live in the hearts of others never die."
Sincerely,
Zafar
_____________________________________________________
From Shamim Siddiqi, New York
My Dear Br Ghouse, Assalamu Alaikum

The inevitable has happened. None of us can escape it. Those who are born have to see it. It is our destiny.
Ghouse Bhai, You now have no choice but please have SBR, do Istighfar for her, remember her legacies and try to fulfill her aspirations as the truthful embodiment of her active life. You will then never miss her. She will always be at your side, inspiring you and giving you enormous courage and stamina to face the odds of life to accomplish your joint goal to serve the humanity at large.
May Allah bless her soul, pardon her sins, if any, multiply the reward of her good deeds, place her in Jannatul Firdaous, give solace to you, your children, her relatives and the vast circle of your friends and acquaintances around the world. Amen!
I wish I could attend her funeral. However, my best prayers for her Maghfirah will always be there, Insha Allah
Shamim Siddiqi
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From Akram Syed
Dear Mike, ASAK
I am in Bangalore, Zeba just informed me that Najma Bhabi passed away. Our deepest condolences to you and family, May Allah reward her Jannah. Ameen, she was a sweet person who touched so many hearts in this world. I wish I could attend her janaza prayers, but Allah has His own plans. Insh’Allah I’ll visit you after I return, till then let us all pray for the grieving family and the Maghfirah of the deceased.
Regards,
Akram Syed
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From Happy & Sonia
Dear Mike,
We're deeply saddened to hear the news about Najma Auntie. Our prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time! May Najma Auntie rest in peace and god gives us all the strength to accept the things that we cannot change.
With deepest sympathy....
Happy and Sonia
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From Masroor Siddiqi
May ALLAH grant her eternal peace and JANAT UL FIRDOUS
and Sabr to you
Masroor
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From Azhar Azeez
Assalamu Alaikum,
On a very sad note Sister Najma Ghouse, a very dear sister from our community passed away yesterday around 7:00PM. "Inna li Allah wa inna ilayhi rajoon" ‘Surely to Allah (swt) we belong and to him we shall return. Sister Najma was a long time resident of Carrollton and a very active social and community worker. When we were buying the IAC Masjid property she was our realtor and helped us in a big way. She served on the board of MCCHS and was also very active at IANT clinic. We ask Allah (swt) to give patience to all the family members at this difficult moment. “Ajr jazil" and "Sabr Jamil". The Janaza prayer will be held today at Dallas central Mosque in Richardson after Jummah Salat at 2:30PM and burial will take place in Denton cemetery in Denton, TX. Please make dua for her maghfirath.
Jazak Allah Khair
Azhar Azeez
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From Cindy & Ron Branson, Mayor, City of Carrollton
Mike,
Cindy and I were very saddened to hear about Najma. I can only imagine what it feels like to loose someone that close. If we could ease your pain in any way, we would be more than happy to do so.
Blessings to your family.
Ron and Cindy Branson
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From Jack & Laura Stotz
Mike
Please know that we have prayed for Najma and for the entire Ghouse family during this time and we will continue to keep your family in our prayers that you may find God's comfort in knowing that Najma is now with Him
She was a blessing to all that came to know her.
Jack and Laura Stotz
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From Bhopi & Kamla Dhall
Dear Mike,
It is with great sorrow that we have learnt of the sad passing of Najma.
Her passing is a great loss to the entire community.
Please accept our heart felt condolences.
May the lord give you and the family strength to bear this irreparable loss.
Sorrowfully,
Bhopi and Kamla Dhall
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From Farooq Hemani
Inna Lilla hi o Inna Ilaihi ur rajewoon
Najma will be thoroughly missed. She was an inspiration for so many of us. May Allah grant her eternal peace.
Mike, I have a cast on my foot and not allowed to walk much, otherwise I would not miss her Namaz-e Janaza. May Allah grant you strength to overcome this great loss.
Farooq Hemani
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From Atul Khara
Dear Mike:
Please accept our deepest condolence on
passing away of Najma Ghouse.
Our prayers are with you.
Atul Khara
Plano, Texas
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From A Basit Siddiqui
Dear Mike, AA,
We were all very saddened to hear about Sr. Najma's passing away. My wife joins me in offering our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May Allah give you all the patience to bear this loss and may Allah give a place in Jannah to the departed.
A Basit Siddiqui
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From Inayat & Salma Lalani
Amin!
Inayat and Salma Lalani
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From Steve & Yoko
Dear Mike,
Our condolences to your family at this time.
We are so happy she could go with peace, and could spend her last hours with those she loved.
I regret I cannot come the prayer today, but please know that we are praying for your family.
Thank you for the suggestion of making a donation. We shall do so in loving memory of your wife.
With love
Steve and Yoko
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From Tatiana Androsov
May Najma be shine in the reflection of His Light...
Tatiana Androsov
Thanks-Giving Square
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From Gautam Kumar
I am extremely sorry to hear - this is much sooner than expected!!!
I pray for the peace of her soul - she will be dearly remembered.
Gautam Kumar
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From Praveen & Sangeeta Singh
Dear Mike,
Let her soul rest in PEACE in the feet of ALMIGHTY. Have courage to face the situation and we are all with you in sharing your irreparable loss, which no words can fill in.
We all prey god to give you the strength.
In deep Sympathy!
Praveen Singh and Sangeeta Singh
California
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From Janie Chihal

Mr. Ghouse,
I don't know you but receive your E-mails since our family lives in High Country. Please accept my sympathy on the loss of your family member.

Janie Chihal
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From Gregory Gomez & Family, Apache Nation, Arizona
Mike, our prayers are there with and for you and your family.
Always,
GGG and family
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From Arshia & Arshad J Nizam
Mike:
Arshia and I are saddened to hear Najma Apa's passing away. Whole DFW community is going to miss her, she will be remembered for may generations for her selfless work. May Allah give her a place in Jannah, and give you strength and patience to bear this loss.
Warmest Regards,
Arshad J. Nizam
Financial Advisor
Guided Portfolio Manager
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From Infoworld

We were sorry to hear about your loss. May Allah bless her soul and give the family the courage and patience.
Infoworld
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From Raghu & Meena Bhardvaj
Dear Mike,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. She was a great community leader and we were waiting to see her as a Carrolton Mayer. Today we lost a sister of our community. She was a great inspiration to all the women crowd here in DFW.
May God give her eternal peace and continue to give strength to you and the family to bear this great loss.
Our prayers are with you.
Raghu and Meena Bhardvaj
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From Khurram Farooqie
Mike
I just read the shocking news of your wife’s passing. I am completely shocked and bereaved. May Allah grant her the highest order in Heaven...and may he grant you and your family peace in knowing that she is in a better place. I am so saddened by this news and even though I only met her with you a handful of times, she left a marking impression.
Please let me know if there is absolutely anything that I can do. I am out of the country right now but will be back Insh’Allah on Sunday.
Yours Truly
-Khurram
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From Anwar & Laila K Khan
Salaam,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept Anwar and mine's deepest condolences as we will pray for her and you during this difficult time.
Best Regards,
Laila K. Khan
Director of Operations
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
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From Howard Self
Dear Mike,
Our prayers are for Najma's blessed transition. God bless you for your wonderful faith and heart. With all our love,,,,,,,,, Howard Self
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From Prof. Sree Sreenivasan
Mike: Am so sorry to hear this. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If there's anything we can do, let us know.
May God give you strength in this difficult time.
Prof. Sree Sreenivasan
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From Mustafaa Carroll
As Salaamu Alaikum Mike,
On behalf of my family and I, please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of our Sr. Najma. Although we realized the situation was grave, we never gave up hope and we are deeply saddened by your loss. Inna Allahi wa inna Allahi rajaoon. From Allah we come and to Allah we return. May Allah subhana wa ta-ala forgive her sins and grant her the paradise, and give you sabr and rahma in your time of need. As Salaamu Alaikum.
Br. Mustafaa
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From Dr. Mohammad Omar Farooq
Dear Br. Ghouse,
Salaam.
Inna Lillahi wa inna Ilaihi wa rajewoon.
I am so deeply saddened at Bhabi passing away, which we all will have to encounter.
May Allah embrace her in abounding mercy and forgiveness and grant her the highest status in Jannah.
May Allah also give you and your family to bear with this loss.
Fi amanillah.
Farooq
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From Madhu Sastry
Mike,
Very sorry to hear the bad news. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. It is a great loss to our community.
Please let us know if we can assist you in anyway at this difficult time.
Thanks,
Madhu Sastry
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From Dr. Daniela
Dear Mike,
Please accept my condolences on the passing of your wife Najma.
Dr. Daniela
_____________________________________________________

From Mohamed Elibiary
May Allah make it easy on you and all Najma's family and friends. It's harder on those of us left behind but there is a blessing for the deceased. Having a janaza prayer after Jummah is a great blessing for Najma and I pray that Allah showers his rahma on her in the grave and the entire family left behind.
Salaam,
Mohamed Elibiary
President & CEO
The Freedom and Justice Foundation (F&J)
_____________________________________________________
From Naseer Tahir
Assalamu Alaikum,
May Allah bestow peace on her soul, grant His nearness in hereafter and may He give the Family and friends the strength to bear this loss.
Wassalaam
Naseer Tahir
_____________________________________________________
From Rev. Michael Hentrich
Dear Mike,
I feel your joy and sadness and your deep heart of love for your wife, whom you will join again in the future. May Allah give her peace and rest until you can join her again. Our deepest condolences and love to you and your family on her passing. Our prayers are with you all.
Rev. Michael Hentrich
_____________________________________________________
From Julie Ann Turner
Mike,
I’m sending all love and prayers to you and your family. Najma was such a powerful light in the world, and God is rejoicing in her with joy. God will be your strength.
Love and blessings,
Julie Ann
_____________________________________________________
From Darla Atchley
Mike,
She is out of her pain and suffering which will bring you and your family great peace.
Becky and I will attend the service.
Love
Darla
_____________________________________________________
From Tyler Hendricks
Dear Mr. Ghouse,
Please accept my condolences at this time of transition. To embark in peace as we depart on our eternal journey is the mark of a life well-lived.
Blessings,
Tyler Hendricks
President
Unification Theological Seminary
_____________________________________________________
From Coby
Mike,
We have been praying everyone morning and during the day for you and yours. I know we have only gotten to know each other for a short time but I value your friendship. If there is anything I can do please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Blessings,
Coby
_____________________________________________________
From Dr. Eva Latham
Dear Mr. Ghouse,
My deepest condolences to you and yours .May Najma R.I.P.
Sincerely,
Dr. Eva Latham
Human Rights Teaching International. _____________________________________________________
From Basit Siddiqi
Dear Mike, AA,
We were all very saddened to hear about Sr. Najma's passing away. My wife joins me in offering our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May Allah give you all the patience to bear this loss and may Allah give a place in Jannah to the departed.
The Book says it very candidly that "ALLAH places not burden on any soul but to the extent of his strength(2,286)" and "every soul is to taste death(3,185)". Sr. Najma, probably, could not bear the pain any longer and hence ALLAH(SWT) has bestowed HIS mercy upon her in the form of relief from this earthly pains. May ALLAH(SWT)shower His mercy and forgive the departed soul and make her enter paradise promised to all believers. 'Ameen"
" Surely, for Allah was what he took, and for him is what he gave, and with Him there is a time appointed for everyone. "
Sincerely,
Basit,
_____________________________________________________
From Praveen Singh
Mike
Our prayers and best wishes are always with you and we wish for Najmaji to feel better and better day by day. Thanks and keep faith in GOD, whatever he does, does it for good.
Thanks
Praveen
_____________________________________________________
From Sudha
Hi mike Thamma,
My prayers are with you and Najma
You are wiser than myself .
All I can say is God bless you and keep you courageous
your Akka
Sudha
_____________________________________________________

From Shadi
Dear Mike ,
This morning talking to Dr. Prasad I heard the sad news about departure of your wife to her real abode. May god give peace to her .
I do not have words to console you but I know the feelings as I lost my only love years ago and still even after almost 4 decades I miss her.
Please accept my condolences
Regards
Shadi
_____________________________________________________
From Pervaiz & Raufia Rahman
When we turn things over to Allah, knowing that everything that was humanly possible has been done, we are able to find inner peace and tranquility. Our best prayers and wishes remain with both of you and your families.
Dr. Pervaiz and Raufia Rahman
_____________________________________________________
From Arif Khairuddin
Assalamualaykum
Very sad to hear about this.
Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi ur Rajewoon.
May Allah give Sabr to Mike and his family.
Let's pray for her maghfirath.
_____________________________________________________
From Ameen
With Allah G-D Al-Mighty name the merciful benefactor, the merciful redeemer
WE PRAY THAT ALLAH HAVE MERCY ON HER SOUL,FORGIVE HER OF ALL SINS AND ADMIT HER TO HEAVEN.
AMEEN.
_____________________________________________________
From Dr. Mohsin Shamsi
Sad news.
May ALLAH BLESS HER WITH BEST OF JANNAH ameen May Allah give you Strength to bear the loss.
With U in your Sorrow
Dr. Mohsin Shamsi
Lucknow India.
_____________________________________________________
From Shafi Refai
Dear Mike:
Assalaam Alaikum,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on passing away of your wife Najma. May Allah grant her maghfirath and sabr to you and all near and dear to her.
with best,
-Shafi Refai
_____________________________________________________

From Niraj Baxi
Dear Mike:
Please accept our deep condolences on Najma's passing.
May her soul rest in peace and May you find solace in God's eternal
blessings.
Sincerely,
Niraj
_____________________________________________________

From Moazam Syed
Mike:
ASA
My condolences.
I am simply speechless!
On top of it, I could not attend as I had to stay at the Masjid. as our chairman Br. Abbasi was representing us.
I did make the announcement and our Imam said special Dua at Masjid-Al-Ibraheemi for her Maghfirath.
Your patience and handling was admirable. May Allah S.W.T give you and all the family members the strength to bear it and the divine Blessings / Reward that accompanies it.
Our prayer are will be with you.
Moazam
_____________________________________________________

From Micha’el Akiba
Bismillah
Mike, my brother
Esselamün aleyküm verahmetullahi ve berekatu HUUUU
Eyvallah
Mevlana Celaluddin Rumi says:
Our death is our wedding with eternity.
What is the secret? "God is One." (Allahu Ehad, Allahu samed).
...For he who is living in the Light of God,
The death of the carnal soul is a blessing.
I mourn with you for the loss of your beloved, Najma.
I was blessed to have met her.
I know you were blessed to have been in love with her.
I rejoice for her soul knowing that she is with Allah, er-Rahman ir-Rahim.
i will continue to make dua for her soul and for you.
Please know you can call me as you need, whenever you need.
i send you my love and the blessings and comfort of Allah.
HUUUU
your brother
Micha’e
l_____________________________________________________

From Asra Nomani

Dearest Mike, I am so sorry to you for your loss of your beloved from this earth. To know love is to know God. And I am so sorry that you will not have the physical expression of the divine beside you in the form of your dear wife Najma, but may your soul be comforted with her eternal presence inside your soul.
With love,
Asra
_____________________________________________________
From Sabeeha Kazmi
Najma's Funeral Prayers.
Mike is an admirable husband. May God Almighty protect him from evil ------ Amen.
It was very touching to me. The Congregation so full. I have never expected before.
Every one prayed for her sanctity. May peace be with all.
I really admire all the Cancer Doctors & Nurses & all care takers.
I do so much of grief counseling & give lot of sympathy to people.
I was moved today. Such a happy go lucky lady was resting in so much
peace after going through (God only knows what ?) To me it is not an
end it is a beginning & we must all start to take extra care of all of
us. We will never know what will happen in a fraction of a second.
Most difficult task is accepting death. That is the last thing we
have to do. We did it.
I have another friend her name is also Najma & she took all the
medical treatment as her son is a Doctor & then went to India &
completed the Ayer-Vedic course. She is fine. I brought her down to
this Najma for learning experience.
But this one spread like fire.
All the Hospitals & all the Specialists in Dallas could not keep Najma
Ghouse alive.
She will live for ever in the hearts of the people; who were taken
care by her. She gave life to people homes to needy & luxury to others
also.
God Almighty will reward her abundantly. For Sure.
I cannot express my regards to Mike for his dedication. & to Dr. Anil
Sood for your
kindness & care.
Regards
Sabeeha Kazmi
Chaplain - Parkland
_____________________________________________________

From Amrita & Harbans Lal
Dear Mike,
I feel it is almost an intrusion to visit, call or write to you at a time like this. But then it is difficult to contain the emotions of bereavement and not express. We must share with you how saddened we are on the news of this untimely passing away of our dear friend and colleague, Najma ji.
It was a privilege to have known Najma; and her loss will be felt by many for a long time to come. We will join many of her friends, interfaith groups, and our Sikh community in the area, to pray for her in her journey to the timeless.
Amrita and I hope that time will soften the sudden sadness, and leave you and us with her cherished memories.
Amrita and Harbans Lal
_____________________________________________________
From Aamir Rafique
Dear Mike Ghouse,
We Eagles cc are deeply saddened by her death. we send our condolences to you and your family. May Allah help and guide you through this difficult time Ameen
Regards
Aamir Rafique
President of Eagles cc
_____________________________________________________
From Aziz
DEAR MIKE:
I JUST HEARD ABOUT THE SADDEST NEWS I COULD POSSSIBLY HEAR. INNA LILLAHE WA INNA ILLAIHE RAJEOON. AS WE SAY IN FARSI, SHE WAS "JANNATI" - SHE IS ALREADY IN JANNA. MAY ALLAH (SWT) GRANT US PATIENCE TO DEAL WITH SUCH A GREAT LOSS.
HAD I KNOWN SOONER, I WOULD HAVE COME TO THE JANAZA. AT THE MOMENT, I FEEL SO HELPLESS: ALL I CAN DO IS PRAY - I GUESS THAT IS ALL WE CAN DO.
PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE IS ANY THING I CAN DO.
MAY ALLAH BE WITH YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES.
AZIZ
_____________________________________________________
From Jeff Andonian
Mike,
May God bless Najma and your entire family and may He bring comfort to your hearts.
Jeff Andonian
_____________________________________________________
From Larry & Laura Hornbeck
Dear Mike,
My husband, Larry, and I send deepest condolences on Najma's passing. Thank you for remembering all your many friends at this painful time and sharing what has happened. She was/is a beautiful person who lives now in the eternal world, where we will all go in our own time. You do her great honor by your efforts to build bridges among all God's children. God bless you always.
Laura Hornbeck
_____________________________________________________

From MQM Dallas
Dear Mr. Ghouse
MQM Dallas on behalf of its office bearers and workers offers deepest condolences to you and your family on sad death of Najma Apa. She had always been a huge support for us and for our Indo Pak Solidarity Mushaira Series. We all will miss our patron, Najma Apa. May Allah rest her soul in peace and provide her highest place in Jannat.
MQM Dallas
_____________________________________________________
From Bob McCranie & Warren Sippel, Jr.
Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I have always been impressed by your work and the work of your wife. We will all miss her in Carrollton.
Bob McCranie & Warren Sippel,Jr.
_____________________________________________________
From Mark Hernandez
Dear Friends and Ambassadors for Peace,
We have been informed by our Brother Mike Ghouse that his wife and our Beloved Sister, Najma, has transitioned from her earthly existence to her eternal spiritual one. We congratulate Najma on a life well-lived, devoted to her family and the public good; a life lived well beyond herself. Let us renew our resolve to live such lives to honor hers.
You may have the time to partake in public prayers for her that will take place at the Richardson Mosque. The family requests donations to Najma's dearest cause. I just received this email this morning.
Peace,
Mark Hernandez
_____________________________________________________
From Raj & Ruby Bhandari
Mike
I am very sorry for your loss. We will always remember Najma as a happy and friendly person.
Our condolences to you and your family.
Raj & Ruby Bhandari
_____________________________________________________
From Sheila Musaji
Salaam,
I am so sorry to hear about your wife. We will remember her in our prayers.
God bless,
Sheila Musaji
_____________________________________________________
From Zulikha Hussain
Salamalikum Br. Ghouse,
I am so sorry to hear about Najma Apa, my deepest sympathy to you and your entire families. Najma Apa was a remarkable women and God always chooses his best ones to come home first. I pray God gives you and your entire families patience and strength to get through this difficult time and Grant Najma Apa the highest place in Heaven. Najma Apa will be terribly missed.
Zulikha Hussain
_____________________________________________________

From S Akhtar A Shah
May God keep her in peace and comfort here and paradise for her, if and when He decides.
with a lot of prayers.
May God grant you (Mike) patience.
S. Akhtar A. Shah, M.D.
_____________________________________________________
From Isabel Docampo
Dear Mr. Ghouse, My prayers are with you and your family as you both celebrate and grieve your wife's death.
Isabel Docampo
_____________________________________________________

From Sunnie, Chuck & Marylou
My prayers, and my husband's prayers, are with you and your family.
Sunnie and Chuck at Unity of Richardson asked I convey to you their prayers also.
Many blessings, Marylou
_____________________________________________________
From Delia Castillo
Dear Mike,
Indeed God has been accompanying you, your wife and family throughout. I did not want to email you and wanted instead to write, but I did not realize how sudden this could be. I'm sorry I did not know how serious this was when Lon asked you to join the Board, as I did not know you were carrying such a burden.
I too saw my mother go in peace not too long ago and am at peace that she is in peace with the Ultimate Peace and Beauty, though I miss her. And it seems you have the same kind of joy for your wife, Najma, that she is amidst something greater than this earthly life.
Although I did not know her, I have in common an interest in domestic violence. Knowing that that was of interest to her tells me we already rather knew each other through spirit.
My heart and prayers go to you and your family. I am grateful for having met you and your compassion. I trust that the love you & yours have will bring you some peace through your journey as well.
Love and Peace,
Delia Castillo
_____________________________________________________

From Asma Salam
Assalamu Alaikum,
May Allah give you and her family strength and courage to except this loss, and May Allah bless Sr. Najma with Paradise and keep her grave wide and bright. Ameen.
Best regards
Asma
_____________________________________________________
From Hadi Jawad
Inna Lilla hi o Inna Ilaihi ur rajewoon
May Allah give you and your family strength to bear the loss of this wonderful sister.
Ameen,
-Hadi Jawad.
_____________________________________________________
From Dalell Mohamed
Dear Mike,
Assalaamu Alaikum,
May Allah (swt) rest her soul. I knew Najma briefly from the TMWF and was so impressed by her spirit and warmth that I could not get enough of her. I recently lost my only sister and not a day goes by that I don not think of her or pick up the phone to call her. The emptiness will never go away, but knowing where she is, brings comfort and fills the void. May Allah be with you and your family and may you all live with the memory of her love, spirit, and grace.

Dalell Mohamed
_____________________________________________________
From Harold Knight
Mike,
Peace to you and your family.
Harold Knight
_____________________________________________________
From Ghulam Yusuf
My heart felt sympathies and prayers for her soul. May Allah grant
her the best place in Jannat. and peace be upon her soul. I pray that
Allah may grant you the strength to bear the loss.
Ghulam Yusuf
_____________________________________________________

From Tariq Khan Niazi
The news of Najma Ghouse sad demise was heard here with deep sense of
grief and pain. The World Foundation of overseas Pakistanis(Solidarity)
and its all the members world over express the same feelings and pray
that "May Allah Subhan ho wa taala bestow upon her His heavenly
blessing, peace and forgiveness and give cordial contentment to bear
this irreparable loss (Ameen).
The WFOP(Solidarity) also express the following verses for Najma
Ghouse nears and dear ones.
When the family chains are broken
It is never quite the same.
But God takes us one by one
And links the chain again.
A tender moment that brings a tear.
A silent wish that you were here.
Without a good-bye you went to sleep.
But precious memories are ours to keep.
A loving smile a heart of gold.
No finer person the world can not hold.
No words we write could ever say.
How much you are missed everyday.
If tears could built a stair-way.
And memories could built a lane.
We would go right upto the heaven.
And bring you home again.
As special routine of WFOP(Solidarity)a special dua-i-maghfirath for
Najma Ghouse has been offered in Harm-i-Pak and Masjid-i-Nabvi this
Friday by scores of Muslims particularly our expatriates gathered in
Harmain Al Sharifain for Jummah prayer which is the last homage to be
paid to the departed soul.
Please do let this office know about her efforts for humanity and
welfare of peoples as mentioned in the message received here.
Tariq Khan Niazi.,
Special Coordinator.,
GEO Channel,
Lahore.
Secretary General
World Foundation of Overseas Pakistanis (Solidarity).,
(WFOP has 300 chapter offices established world over with enormous
strength of our members .
_____________________________________________________



From B & N Kabani
We sincerely pray that may ALLAH grant her eternal peace and tranquility AMEEN
B.AND N.KABANI
_____________________________________________________



From Manju Shrivastava
Mike Ghouse Ji
Namaste
It break my heart after seeing your e-mail, was out of country. Dear
Loving Najma Ji is strong women. Please keep faith in GOD, and do not
give up.
Manju Shrivastava
_____________________________________________________


From Satyan Kalyandurg
Mike,
I am surprised and extremely sorry to hear about Mrs. Najma. I was shocked to hear the news from Kannada Sangha folks Friday evening.
When I saw her with you last time she was lively, positive and high spirited as always.
We all miss her especially, Plano Indian Lions Club members.
We pray that she rests in peace. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
May God bless you and your family strength to bear the loss.
Satyan
_____________________________________________________



From Asghar Vasanwala
Dear Mike,
Sorry for your loss. Qalu inna Lillahi.....
Vas Salaam,
Asghar Vasanwala
_____________________________________________________



From MKANT Committee
Dear MKANT Members,
With sadness we inform you of the demise of one of our members Mrs. Najma Ghouse.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mike Ghouse and Family.
You can read about Mrs. Najma Ghouse at http://mikeghouseforamerica.blogspot.com/2008/05/gods-grace-for-najma-ghouse.html
-- MKANT Committee
_____________________________________________________

From Tony
Mike:
Yet, another wonderful person has come into mortality, made an impact for good on her brothers and sisters and left us with more strength than we would have otherwise secured without her gentle and loving care and example. It is my hope and my prayer that you will be able to reflect on all that was good and positive about her life and her life with you in such a way so as to find only comfort in the past and strength for the future. If there is any way in which I can be of service, please, do not hesitate to call on me.
Your brother
Tony
_____________________________________________________



From Ahmad A Sbaiti & Family
My Dear Mike & Family,
I learned of Najma’s passing away from a cc of a message from AA Siddiqui to you. Please accept my family’s and my personal deepest sympathies and condolences. May Allah give her His Mercy and Bless her soul. I am out of the country, otherwise I’ll come offer my condolences in person.
Sincerely
Ahmad A. Sbaiti & Family
_____________________________________________________


From Dr. M K Sherwani
Dear Mike Ghouse Saheb Assalam Alaikum
I was really shocked to know of the sad demise of your wife. May Allah give her highest place in ' Jannatul-Firdaous'. Ameen.
Dr. M.K.Sherwani
_____________________________________________________

From Nabil Elibiary
Assalamu Alaikum
My sincere heartily condolence,
We belong to Allah, and to him we will be returned.
I will mention her contribution to IAC in my next Khutba,
and ask the people to read Fatiha, if you do not mind.
Nabil Elibiary
_____________________________________________________

From M Basheer Ahmed

Inna Lillahi wa Ina Ilaihi Rajioon.

It is with great sadness I just found out that sister Najma has passed
away. May god bless her soul and give her rest in peace in Jannah. She was a
great human being and one the most compassionate and committed volunteer I have
ever seen. Our deepest sympathies are with Mike and the family.

M.Basheer Ahmed
MCC For Human Services
_____________________________________________________

From Naresh & Indira Shah
We pray for the departed noble soul of Najma.
OM SHANTI SHANTI SHANTI
OM PEACE PEACE PEACE

Naresh & Indira Shah
Nitro, West Virginia
_____________________________________________________

From Haider & Family
We convey our heartfelt condolences on the demise of sister Najma Ghouse, 'Inna illaha wa inna ilaihay rajaun'.

she was an asset of Indian community and her work will continue inspiring all of us.

May Allah rest her soul in peace and provide her a high place in heavens.

With best wishes,
Haider & Family
_____________________________________________________

From Iftekhar Alavi

My Dear Ghouse, it is really very painful to think that Bhabi Najma is no more with you. I pray Almighty
Allah to bestow her finest place in heaven and give you patience to bear the unbearable loss of life partner.
I have all my sympathies with you and pray for you. Any service I can do for you in
Pakistan please do not hesitate to tell me.

Iftekhar Alavi
_____________________________________________________

From Kay (Kumkum) Jain

Mike,

Our deepest sympathies are with you and your family. May god grant her eternal peace.

Kay (Kumkum) Jain
_____________________________________________________

From Shakeel Ahmad

Janab Ghouse Sb,
Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahe Wa Barakatahu. May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala accept all the good deeds of sister Najma, forgive all her mistakes, and grant her a high place in Jannat! May Allah, the Most Merciful and the Most Benevolent, bless you and all the members of your family with sabre jameel! May Allah keep us all under the umbrella of His infinite mercy and show us the path of His true deen!
_____________________________________________________

From Manoj Parikh

Namaste Mike,

I was out of town & just got back and read the sad news of demise of your beloved wife and life partner. It was shock for me about the loss of one of our community leader. Her work and help in the society will be always remembered.

May her soul rest in peace and her dedication and memories be comforting to you and family.

If we can do any thing please let me know. I am sorry that I could not visit you and attend the services.

Thanks,

Manoj Parikh
From Mahendra Mehta

Our deepest condolences to Ghouse family, friends and co-workers. We keep the great human being in our prayers. May the great soul rest in peace.

Mahendra Mehta
_____________________________________________________

From Budbeer Naraine

My condolences to you and your family.
_____________________________________________________

From Mahesh & Pushpa Vaidya

Dear Mike
Please accept our heart felt condolences, although we did not have
much interact with her. But as per sure she was a great person and
it is a big loss to the society.
May God give her eternal peace and strength to you
with regards,
Mahesh and Pushpa Vaidya
_____________________________________________________
From Gaurang Desai

Hello Mike,

Sorry to hear about sad demise of Najma.

May God give you strength to shoulder this painful loss.

May her soul rest in peace.

Gaurang
_____________________________________________________
From Ramesh Patel

Please accept our heart felt condolence. May almighty give her deserved place and you the courage to bear the loss

Ramesh (Saudi Arabia)

Best Regards,
Ramesh C. Patel, (Houston)
_____________________________________________________



From Jai & Swadesh Mutreja

Please accept my condolences to bear this loss. We will pray for her
eternal peace.

Jai & Swadesh Mutreja
_____________________________________________________



From Annie & TP Mathew

Hello Mike,

With heart felt sorrows, let me convey our condolences to you. In a way I am glad she said goodbye to all sufferings and entered in to the eternity. As the whole world knows that she believed in pluralistic society and regarded all religions. That may be the very reason that the good Lord allowed few of us comprising of three prominent religions of the world (HINDU, CHRISTIAN, MUSLIM) could stand by her bed and offered the last prayer before her last breath. I think, the end happened just few minutes after we left your home. We left your home about 7:15 PM. Hope it was pleasing to her soul, and it was clear that she was a great person. My wife Annie joins me in conveying our heartfelt condolences.

May the good Lord God of all grant her eternal peace and continue to give strength, courage and peace to you and the family to bear this great loss.
With love and regards,

T. P. Mathew.
_____________________________________________________



From Deva (Phillip) Ramsaroop

My Dear Friend Mike,

This comes as a surprise to us. We have not been aware that Najma was ill. I guess living in Florida has kept us out of the loop. We are truly sorry to hear of this news. As sad as it may appear, you rightly stated that she has embarked on her eternal Journey.

When such a dear one passes on, it is difficult for us who are left behind to understand and accept this mystery of life and death. For this reason we often cry and grieve. However, we must realize and accept, that Najma has gone to a higher plane at the will of God, and that God knows what is best for her. All we can offer now are our prayers and best wishes for her journey. We ask God to provide her a home of peace and joy. Najma's sojourn and purpose on earth has come to an end and God has called her for a higher purpose. We all have to take this journey and Najma will help to prepare the path for us when that time comes. In doing so we will meet Najma again and continue our fellowship. While we consider ourselves humans having a spiritual experience, we are indeed Spiritual beings having a human experience and our true self is oneness with God. Occasions like this tend to let us ponder on this so called mystery of life after death.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and family at this time

Sincerely,
Deva (Phillip) Ramsaroop
_____________________________________________________
From Jitendra Desai

Mike,

God grant her eternal peace and continue to give strength to you and your family to bear this great loss.

Regards,
Jitendra Desai.
_____________________________________________________


From Mahendra Yajnik & Family

Dear Mike,

Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Mahendra Yajnik & Family
_____________________________________________________



From Harshad Parekh

Mike,

I am extremely sad to hear about news of untimely departure of Najma. We pray God to give your family the strength to bear this tragic loss.

Harshad Parekh
_____________________________________________________
From Sherbanoo & Iqbal
Dear Mike
Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Sherbanoo and Iqbal
_____________________________________________________
From Iqbal, Yasmeen, Sana & Zain Kamdar

Innaa Lillahi wa Innaa Ilaihi Rajioon.
We express our heartfelt condolences on the demise.
May Allah Subhanahutallah rest the departed soul in eternal peace and place her in Jannatul Firdaous Ameen! May Allah have mercy on her and forgive her sins. Aameen!
May Allah Subhanahutallah grant family members of the deceased, courage, patience, solace and strength to bear the loss? Aameen!
Jazakallah!
IQBAL,YASMEEN,SANA AND ZAIN KAMDAR
_____________________________________________________

From Iqbal Kazmi

May Allah send Najma to Jannah and provide patience to
all her relatives!

Iqbal Kazmi
_____________________________________________________





From Aftab Siddiqui
Mike,

I am sorry to hear about the passing away of Sr. Najma. She was a person of great compassion and courage. May Allah (swt) shower His mercies on her soul and give you and other family members strength to face these difficult times. Najma will be remembered by the community for her outstanding work on different issues. We, at the MCC for Human Services will always remember her hard work and passion and will miss her immensely. Take care.

Aftab Siddiqui
_____________________________________________________
From Saeed Qureshi

May her soul rest in peace. Ameen. What a magnificent woman she was.
Saeed Qureshi
From Abdus Sattar Ghazali

Please accept my condolences on this tragedy. Allah may rest her in peace and give her bereaved family to bear this tragedy. In whatever words we phrase this tragedy but it is a very sad day.

Abdus Sattar Ghazali
_____________________________________________________
From Javed Chowdhry

This is indeed a great loss for the family and community. May Allah rest her in peace and give courage to the family to bear this loss
Wassalaam

Javed Chowdhry
_____________________________________________________



From Shamim Siddiqi

My Dear Br Ghouse, Assalamu Alaikum

The inevitable has happened. None of us can escape it. Those who are born have to see it. It is our destiny.

Ghouse Bhai, You now have no choice but please have SBR, do Istighfar for her, remember her legacies and try to fulfill her aspirations as the truthful embodiment of her active life. You will then never miss her. She will always be at your side, inspiring you and giving you enormous courage and stamina to face the odds of life to accomplish your joint goal to serve the humanity at large.

May Allah bless her soul, pardon her sins, if any, multiply the reward of her good deeds, place her in Jannatul Firdaous, give solace to you, your children, her relatives and the vast circle of your friends and acquaintances around the world. Amen!

I wish I could attend her funeral. However, my best prayers for her Maghfirah will always be there, Insha Allah

Shamim Siddiqi
_____________________________________________________




From Iftekhar Hai

I will pray for peace for her departed soul. May Allah shower blessings on her and comfort to the family members she is living behind. Amen.

Iftekhar Hai
UMA Interfaith Alliance
_____________________________________________________



From Syed Adil

My dear Mike, As Salaam Alaikum,

As much as we were braced for this eventuality, the news when it came was a great shock.

May Allah SWT grant Magferat to the departed soul and May He bless you with fortitude and patience to bear this great loss. Aameen

Allah Hafiz

Syed Adil
_____________________________________________________
From Anees Ahmad

Dear Mike Ghouse

Assalam-o-Aleyküm

Inna Lilla hi wa Inna Elehi Rajioon

Allah marhooma ki maghfirath farmaye, Jannatul Firdaous ata farmaye, aap ko aur sabhi ghar walooN ko sabr-e-jameel ata farmaye. AAMEEN

It is said in one Hadith that a person is Shaheed even if died with stomach. She was really in a big pain of the killer disease, Insh’Allah she is also in the status of Shaheed who will be having a very high status in Jannah.

Wassalaam

Anees Ahmad
_____________________________________________________

From Farzana Hassan

Mike... my heartfelt condolences. May her soul rest in peace. Would you like me to make this announcement on MCC?
Farzana
____________________________________________________

From Syed Elias

Assalaam Aleyküm, Mike
I got the news a few days earlier through Irfan Ali Sahib (of Denton) that she is in her last stages in the hospital. I wanted to call you immediately and share my thoughts, but he suggested not to. Then last night I received the news, that Sr. Najma left us, from another friend of mine in Carrollton. My heart sank. Very sad to hear about the sad news. I knew her, and her father Soofi Fazlurrahman Saheb, for a long time (almost a quarter century) when I used to live in DFW area. I knew her to be a kind, gentle, pleasant, courteous, brave, and very service minded lady. I am, at the same time, pleased that she met the maker at the right time at the first call. Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Rajioon! My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Syed Elias
Round Rock, TX 78681
_____________________________________________________

From Din Muhammad Shahed

Condolence on the Sad Demise of Mrs. Najma

Sorry to know the sad demise of Mrs. Najma. Inna Lillahi wa Inna
Elaihey Rajioon !!
May Allah rest her soul in peace in the lofty place of paradise near
to Allah Al-Mighty !!
May Allah grant solace and fortitude to Brother Ghouse, all the dear
ones, relatives and friends.
This is the decree of Allah, we have to accept it.
"BULANEY WALA HAY SAB SEY PIARA ,
USY PEH AY DIL TU JAN FIDA KAR" !

YOURS FRATERNALLY,
DIN MUHAMMAD SHAHED
Brantford, Ontario, Canada
_____________________________________________________

From Arif Khairuddin

Assalamualaykum

Very sad to hear about this.

Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi ur Rajewoon.

May Allah give Sabr to Mike and his family.

Let's pray for her maghfirath.
_____________________________________________________

From SaalaKhan

Assalaamu Alaikum:

You and your family have our condolences. Inna Lillahi wa inna Ilaihi Rajioon.

The death of a loved one, be they family or friend
is accompanied by sadness, for how we will miss them
but death is a reality that will come to us all
the acceptance of this will bring comfort to all

When seen in this light it may be viewed as a friend
for as life passes by
a new life begins.

Saalakhan
_____________________________________________________

From Imam Kamara

Mike Ghouse,
May Allah-swt make this trying time easy for you and your family, may He-swt forgive you wife hers sins and grant her home of paradise. Our prayers are with you and the family always. Allah-swt does not take anything away without giving something in its place, be patient and persevere in this difficult time, Allah-swt will lighten your load. "Innaa ma'alusrii yusraa" (Most certainly with the difficulty there's the ease). May Allah-swt help you and the family.
Imam Kamara
_____________________________________________________

From Hakim Rushdan

As Salaam Alaikum, May Allah forgive Najma her shortcomings and grant her
paradise and may he strengthen your spirit at this time of your loss.

Freedom is to move in our intellect to a greater vision
and a greater purpose.
_____________________________________________________

From Faridul Islam

Dear Br Mike,
ASAK,
Please accept our condolences.
May Allah grant her a place in the Jannah and give you the strength to
deal with this.
As Allah says in the Quran,
Inna Lillahi owa Inna Ilaihi rajewoon
From Allah we came and to Him is our journeying.
We all will have to go one day. Life in this world is but a past time.
May Allah bless us all and shower His mercy
Farid

Dr. Farid Islam
Associate Professor
Department of Finance & Economics
School of Business, BU 216, (MC 103)
Utah Valley State College
_____________________________________________________

From Asif Wafai

Dear Brother Ghouse,

Deeply saddened at her demise May Allah rest her soul in peace (Ameen) Our prayers are with you.

Asif Wafai
_____________________________________________________

From Zeba Salim

Dear Mr. Ghouse,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies regarding the loss of your wife. I would appreciate it you could extend my sympathies to Sister Najma's family as well. May Allah give all of you the strength to cope with this great loss, and may she, S. Najma, be blessed with Allah's grace and mercy. Insh’Allah, Sister Najma will embark on a wonderful journey to a place in the heavens where she may find eternal peace and comfort. I was unable to make the funeral as I had a prior engagement which I could not cancel. Please again, experience condolences to the family.
Thank you,
Zeba
_____________________________________________________

From Ibrahim B Syed

Dear brother Ghouse:
Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmathullahi Wa Barakatahu,

"Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajewoon"

I pray to Allah (SWT) for Maghfirah of sister Najma. May Allah (SWT) give
her the best place in Jannatul Firdaous.

May Allah (SWT) give you and your family the patience and strength to bear this great loss in your lives.

Allah Hafiz,

Ibrahim B. Syed
From Ovais Hasan & Family

Mike Bhai,
Please accept condolences from my family, May Allah give you patience and Najma Bhabi Janet-ul-Firdous (Ameen).
-Ovais Hasan
_____________________________________________________

From Rafiq Akbany & Family

Dear Brother Mike Ghouse,

Our deepest condolences from Indonesia on the demise of Najmabai, May Allah
Grant her Jannah, and grant the family left behind the patience to bear this
great loss.

Rafiq Akbany Family-Jakarta, Indonesia
_____________________________________________________

From Farid Chaudhari

Dear Mike, AA,

Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajioon.

May God bestow His Forgiveness (Maghfirath) upon her , award her a
place in High Paradise (Jannat ul Ulia) and reward you and all the
rest of the family with Elegant Steadfastness (Sabr e Jameel).Amen.

Best Regards,

Farid.
_____________________________________________________

From Zulfi Ahmed

Mike, My deepest condolences, she was a great leader, a gentle and compassionate human being. She leaves behind many

Zulfi Ahmed
_____________________________________________________

From Tamim Saidi

WAAWRWB

May Allah have mercy on her, and grant her the highest level of paradise.
May Allah make the grave for her full of light and comfortable, and show her, her place in Jannah. May Allah grant you and her family patience, and reward w/ great thing in both lives.

Certainly, we belong to Allah to Him do we return.
ws
your brother,
Tamim
_____________________________________________________

From Syed Ubaidur Rahman

ASAK
Inna Lillahi wa inna ilaihe rajioon.
I am saddened to hear this news, that though inevitable, but very
painful for all of us.
May Allah (SWT) rest her soul in peace and give her a life of eternal
happiness and comforts in Jannah, that He has promised, ameen.
Ubaid
_____________________________________________________

From Razi Raziuddin

ASAK all,

Inna Lillahe wa Inna Ilaehe rajeeon! May Allah grant her a place in
Jannat and may Allah grant Mike Ghouse courage and sabr, to face the
tragedy.

At times like this it is simply very hard to say and/or do anything
beyond these expressions.Mike is a Godly man, and I am sure he will
have the courage and sabr to face it.

wa-as-salam,

Razi
_____________________________________________________

From Tariq Farooqi

Dear Mr. Ghouse: Please accept my heartfelt condolence on the sad
demise of your spouse as she left for her heavenly abode. While I
have never met you. your postings on this subject were so touching
and endearing. One could sense the hurt and pain you were going
through, yet you felt the graceful acceptance and courage shown by
your beloved spouse.

Your sharing of this personal pain has touched our hearts. It proves
how close the two of you were and you wanted to tell the world about
her strength and love.

May Allah grant you strength to deal with this loss, grant you peace
and solace and somehow help you cope with this loss.

Regards,

Tariq Farooqi
_____________________________________________________

From Om Mohamed

Asalama alaikum, Brother Mike.

You are so right "Inna Lilla hi o Inna Ilaihi ur rajewoon --From God
we came and to God we go." May Allah help you and your family with
ease doing these trying times. A loss of a loved one is indeed a
trying test from Allah. Brother Mike, please look upon your wife (and
the wonderful times you spent together) as a beautiful loan from
Allah, who is just come to collect. You will see her again, at a
later time, of course. But next time, insha Allah, in a much better
place...and Allah knows best.

May Allah bless you in your endeavors,
Om Mohamed
_____________________________________________________

From Adiba Ahmed

Thank you for your e-mail.
Words cannot describe my sense of sadness and loss for your family, her friends and community.

I 'll repeat respected imam's words" may Allah SWT bless her, forgive her and grant her a higher status among His best!" Ameen.
Unnecessary to say that I am praying for her and sending sawab for my salat(namaz).
I would be thinking about some 'baqiyaat us Swalehaat(ever-rewarding, good deeds) ' for her.
Salam on you!

Sister Adiba
_____________________________________________________

From Nishat Karimi

ASA,

Mike bhai, I just found out about your wife Najma passing away. I am deeply shocked and saddened by this shocking news. Pls know that my prayers are with you and your family. Akbar and I am praying for her soul to rest in peace and Allah to grant her jannat, AMIN.

Nishat Karimi
_____________________________________________________

From Anwar Heerji

Good After noon MikeIt was a very shocking news when I heard about Najma Apa who passed away on Friday.She was not only dearest to her family but, she was also an asset to the community as well. We all missed her too. I would like pray for her that God forgive all her sins, her soul may rest in eternal peace and God gives strength to you and your family.AmeenThanksAnwar Heerji & Family
_____________________________________________________

From Radha and Sury

Dear Mike:Please accept our heartfelt condolences to you and your family on Najma’s relinquishing her physical body, last Thursday night. Our sincere prayers for her noble soul to end the eternal journey and find the well deserved rest in eternal peace.
Our memory goes back a number of years when we see saw something special in both of you, an attitude of service to fellow human beings. She has been an ideal better half leading various community activities benefiting the Dallas area including Carrollton.It must be of some comfort to you that she ended her journey at an auspicious time with a smile, which is what many of us wish for.
May God give your family and all of us in the community touched by her life, the strength to bear this loss.
With kind regardsRadha and Sury
_____________________________________________________

From Venkat

Dear Friends

Ms Najma Ghouse, wife of Mike Ghouse, india-unity member, passed away on At 7:25 PM on Thursday Night, May 22nd.

Dear Mike

I am so sorry to hear the news that Najma passed away a few days back.

Please accept my heartfelt condolence to you and your family on this sad occasion. The note you had previously written on her was very touching. Her spirit of volunteerism and community service will certainly be missed. May her soul rest in peace.

Our sympathies and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult period of time. May God give the strength to you to bear the loss.

Venkat
_____________________________________________________

From Walter Fernandes

Dear Mike

Condelonces to you on the death of your wife. My prayers are with you.

Walter Fernandes
_____________________________________________________

From Bhaskar Menon

Dear Mike,
I was very sorry to hear of your loss. I am sure you have the spiritual fortitude to bear with it and carry on your very necessary work of interfaith understanding and amity.

With warm regards


Bhaskar Menon
http://undiplomatictimes.blogspot.com
_____________________________________________________

From Rabia Khan

Hi Mike;
I came to visit Najma the day before she left for heaven. She opened her eyes and looked at me when her sister said to her, '"Dr rabia is here to see you". She opened her eyes and taled tome. her sister says I was the last visitor she spoke with and squeezed my hand. I always looked up to Najma s' courage and devotion for volunteering and community work. She was a role model for all desi women, May God bless her and keep her good memories alive in your and our hearts.

With sympathy,
Rabia
_____________________________________________________

From Ayesha & Ayaz Ahmed

As-Salaam Alaikum,

Dear Br. Ghouse.

Please accept our deepest sympathy and may Allah(SWT) bestow His Mercy up on the departed soul and open the doors of Jannah Insha’Allah. May Allah(SWT) grant you the patience and help cope with the greatest loss. May Allah(SWT) accept all your efforts involved in portraying the positive image of Islam in this country.

Was-Salaam
Ayesha & Ayaz Ahmed
_____________________________________________________

Dear Mike,

I had met you and Najma ji in early 1999. Though, it was a short interaction I respected your outlook. Over the years, I've followed your work as a part of your email and felt compelled to express my thoughts and prayers during the time of your loss. I hope you acquire the courage and strength from your memories and work.

Regards.
_____________________________________________________

From Bob McCranie

Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I have always been impressed by your work and the work of your wife. We will all miss her in Carrollton.Bob McCranie & Warren Sippel,Jr.
_____________________________________________________

From Naseem Ahmed

Dear Mr. GhouseMQM Dallas on behalf of its office bearers and workers offers deepest condolences to you and your family on sad death of Najma Appa. She had always been a huge support for us and for our Indo Pak Solidarity Mushaira Series. We all will miss our patron, Najma Appa. May Allah rest her soul in peace and provide her highest place in Jannat.MQM Dallas
_____________________________________________________

From Laura Hornbeck

Dear Mike, My husband, Larry, and I send deepest condolences on Najma's passing. Thank you for remembering all your many friends at this painful time and sharing what has happened. She was/is a beautiful person who lives now in the eternal world, where we will all go in our own time. You do her great honor by your efforts to build bridges among all God's children. God bless you always.Laura Hornbeck
_____________________________________________________

From Dr. Asif Syed and family

Mike,Asalaam-alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatahu. Pleaseknow that Dr. Asif Syed & family are with you at this moment of need, and we pray that Allah’s rahmat and blessings be constantly at Najma’s side. May God bless you all and give you strength.Wasalaam-alaikum,Asif Bhai & Family
_____________________________________________________

From Mohamed Mohamed
Najma, you and your family are in our prayers.



RegardsMohamed Mohamed
_____________________________________________________

From Manju Shrivastava

Mike Ghouse JiNamasteIt break my heart after seeing your e-mail, was out of country. Dear Loving Najama Ji is strong women. Please keep faith in GOD, and do not give up.Manju Shrivastava
_____________________________________________________

Mar’sue Haffner

I am so shocked and saddened about the news of Najmas death.. I did no even know she was sick. On behalf of Grand Homes we are so sorry.

Mar'Sue
_____________________________________________________
Video's:

Enjoying the boat ride around Kuaii? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXbt2PvHv9I

An interview with Najma -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56ckOqL0A7A

Najma's Sunrise talk in Urdu/Hindi:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8BGIbo0rS0


.

Monday, May 12, 2008

God's Grace for Najma Ghouse

God has been good to us. After 9 months of good medical care and God's grace, Najma, my wife is now completely under God's care and surviving with Allah’s grace, your wishes and prayers.
.
UPDATED - May 24th
.
At 7:25 PM on Thursday Night, May 22nd, Najma took her last breath in peace and embarked on her eternal journey. Janaza (Funeral) prayers are after Friday Congregation (about 2:30 PM) in Richardson Mosque.
Inna Lilla hi o Inna Ilaihi ur rajewoon - From God we came and to God we go.

She was in peace and left this world with a gentle smile.

Those who wish to send flowers, we request them instead to support to her project - Domestic Violence. You can do so by going to the MCC's website http://www.mcc-hs.org/ and scroll down on the right side and click the button donation. It will take you directly to pay-pal. You can fill the required information and put the donation amount.
# # # #
Continued:

We are home since Thursday, 8th of May, and I have been sitting by her bedside praying for her well being ... knowing that she could go any moment is a difficult thing to do. I took some time out to share this message with you, my friends.

In the foot steps of Prophet Muhammad, as a Muslim, I draw inspiration from all faiths and share this beautiful precise expressive phrase from Jainism “ Michami Dukadam”, the essence of which is, on this day, let’s forgive and ask for forgiveness and start the next breath of life with a clean slate, free from guilt, free from anxiety, free from hate, malice, anger and all those enslaving emotions. This is also the essence of many religious festivals including Rosh Hashanah, Diwali, Paryushan and Ramadan.
.

They say that both the forgiver and the forgived are blessed with the peace of mind and the freedom from negativity. It is indeed true salvation, mukti, moksha, nijaat, nirvana and other expressions to describe that freedom. The Qur'aan says that God’s favorite person is the one, who forgives and seeks forgiveness. It is also an idea central to the teachings of Jesus Christ. I want to thank every one who has participated and will participate in this heart and mind purifying process with Najma and I.
.
Please say "Michami Dukadam", it will complete the transaction.

One of the most memorable times of my life is spending time with Najma in her last moments, blessed is she, she has been reciting the article of our faith several times a day with me, “ La Ila ha Illal Lahu Muhammadur Rasool ulla” that I worship the creator God and honor his messenger Prophet Muhammad. She had asked me to read Sura Rahman, as well as reciting Sura Fateha with me. Her words come out and sink but she is not giving up the recitation. Remembering God and seeking his blessings is considered auspicious in Islam as in every faith. We have done this many times since my brother in law Hamid Hussein initiated this practice on Wednesday. May Allah be pleased with us. Najma's whole family surrounds her showering their love and affection.

Alhamdu Lillah, (praise the lord), I am pleased that she has the luxury to close the loose ends of life and continue her journey in peace, just as my Mother did. It is a beautiful way to bring closure to living a fuller life with all the gamut of emotions and experiences. I wish this happens to me, you and every one.

There is a part in me that hopes for a miracle that she would get up and say let's have a few more years of life filled with a whole spectrum of experiences of Khatta (sour), Meetha (sweet), Pheeka (unsalted), Teekha (off), Khara (spicy) and Kadva (bitter) brim with caring and lots of loving.

I want to thank the Doctors, Nurses and the medical care personnel* (listed below) who were so kind and caring, indeed that was a greater part of the caring. Then my gratitude goes to our friends who called, wrote and visited to show their support.

The biggest source of one’s serenity and joy comes from volunteerism, and to inspire and encourage the volunteer in each one of us, Insha Allah (God willing), I plan to hold a two hour evening of memories for Najma to include interfaith prayers and her dear friends sharing her passion to serve.

Thanks for your friendship.

Jazak Allah Khair
Mike Ghouse
.
Najma on the boat "Guess the song she is singing?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXbt2PvHv9I
.
We are honored and blessed with the kindness of every one, and these women and men have been angels to us, and that is every one that has come across Najma.
When the fog clears in my mind or pda is recovered....

Our Doctors:
Dr. Amer Shakil, Dr. Khalida Yasmin, Dr. Sultan Choudhary, Dr. Shobha Rao, Dr. Jalil, Dr. Holt, Dr. Munoz, Dr. Parvez Rahman, Dr. Humera Choudhry, Dr. Chabra, Dr. Botone, Dr. Subhan, Dr. Radha Cherupuri, Dr. Nasir, Dr. Tamara McGreggor, Dr. Anil Sood, Dr. Dar,.
.

The Nurses and Medical Professionals:
Crystal, Alberta, Liliana, Achamma, Mary, Suja (Insha Allah the list will be completed)
.
Zindagi aur kuch bhi nahin - hum sub ki alag alag kahani hai
.
Thanks for your comments below;

Monday, May 5, 2008

Diplomacy: Home v. Abroad

http://mikeghouseforamerica.blogspot.com/2008/05/diplomacy-home-v-abroad.html

The following article is a contrast in political maturity at home and abroad. It is good to see export of our ideas of diplomacy to other nations, but sad to see it obliterate in its own place of birth; America.

Our political process is the greatest in the world and I am delighted to see the Obama-Clinton contest continue, it shows the amount of deliberations Americans are making in chosing the right leader, especially after the rottenest period in our history of governance. Look at the slam dunk arrogant mindest within our party (Republican)and see where it has gotten us; a loss of respect in the community of nations.

“How to win friends and influence people” is the number one selling book in the World and will continue to keep its edge for millennia to come. The concept got expressed well here in America, and within a century, our leaders are set to destroy it.

The Turkish Prime Minister talks about winning friends and objectively criticizes Israel's excessess in Gaza... and look what we have; one wants to bomb and bomb Iran and other wants to obliterate it. As an immigrant American myself, I am amused to ask, where the heck these two come from?

What does our smart President say? " There are 350-million middle class people in India. They are more than the population of America. When you get wealth, you start demanding better nutrition, more food. They want to eat well so our food prices are rising," George Bush said. He once said something similar to this " we export our items to foreign countries, because they are outside of our country"

As a Pluralist and a supporter of the right of divinity of every faith, I stand against the ten commandment monument in the public square. The public space cannot be monopolized by any one. I agree with the Prime Minister Erdogan when he says “Our Government demonstrates that a religious person can protect the idea of secularism”

I could not agree with him any more “Our policy is to win friends, and not to make enemies. Because of our good relations with both Syria and Israel we were asked by both of them to effect better communications.” We need to send Mr. Bush and Mr. Omert to diplomacy 1o1 or at least a Dale Carnegie 101. Mother Teresa caps this well “ If you want to make friends, go talk with your enemies, you don’t need peace with your friends.”

Justice is the basis for peace and security,when it is obliterated, you cannot expect it to be around. I agree with the statemen like statement from the Prime Minister, “My biggest hope [for peace] is that Israel stops its excessive use of force in the West Bank. Civilians are being killed in Gaza; children and old people. We have to be just—we cannot say that it's right if one side [uses force] but condemn the other side for doing the same”

Mike Ghouse

# # #

‘We Are Not Rooted In Religion’
http://www.newsweek.com/id/135291

May 12, 2008 International Edition By Owen Matthews

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan talks to Owen Matthews about Islam, modernity and Turkey's role in Israel-Syria communications

Despite a landslide election win last summer, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's prime minister, is fighting for his political life. Turkey's Constitutional Court is considering an indictment accusing Erdogan and 70 other figures from his party, the AKP, of "seeking to undermine the secular state." Prosecutors demand that the accused be banned from politics for five years and the AKP closed down. The morning that the party submitted its defense to the court, Erdogan spoke to NEWSWEEK's Owen Matthews in Ankara. Excerpts:

Matthews: Can Islam and modernity coexist?

Erdogan: Turkey has achieved what people said could never be achieved—a balance between Islam, democracy, secularism and modernity. [Our government] demonstrates that a religious person can protect the idea of secularism. In the West the AKP is always portrayed as being "rooted in religion." This is not true. The AKP is not a party just for religiously observant people—we are the party of the average Turk. We are absolutely against ethnic nationalism, regional nationalism and religious chauvinism. Turkey, with its democracy, is a source of inspiration to the rest of the Islamic world.

You have made speeches calling for new thinking in Islam.

We as politicians cannot enter into debates about modernizing Islam. As politicians we do not have the right. Nor do Islamic scholars. But we can speak about the place of Muslims in modern society and their contribution to a modern way of life. We can speak about the place of women. For example, in Turkey today the AKP is the best way for women to take an active part in political life. We have the largest number of female M.P.s.

If you have such a liberal vision, why is it that you are being prosecuted for allegedly being too Islamist?

I cannot comment while the case is still being considered by the court.

How have religious attitudes changed in Turkey during your lifetime?

The rules of religion stay the same, but people's attitudes towards religion have changed. The urbanization of the country has brought increased wealth and a different understanding of life. In the past, people had no alternatives. Now we have given people freedom of choice. We have also enhanced the rights and freedoms of non-Muslims. For instance we have made changes to the building codes so that they do not refer to "mosque" but to "place of religious worship." We put government money into restoring the Armenian church on Lake Van. And we have changed the law to help religious foundations [regain property confiscated by the state].

But you haven't reopened the Orthodox seminary on Halki island [near Istanbul].

That is an educational problem, not a religious problem. We have to overcome some mutual problems with Greece, such as questions about the education of ethnic Turks in western Thrace. We hope to overcome these issues soon.

What is Turkey's role in facilitating recent negotiations between Israel and Syria?
For 40 years Turkey had no diplomatic relations with Syria. When [the AKP] came to power we decided to normalize these relations. Our policy is to win friends, and not to make enemies. Because of our good relations with both Syria and Israel we were asked by both of them to effect better communications. We've been speaking to the leaders of both countries. It's important for us to try to gain some ground—if we can help achieve peace in the Middle East, that will have a major positive impact on the region.
Is it your belief that Israel wishes to attack Iran?

For a politician to speak about other countries' intentions is a big mistake. But I don't want to see anything like that happen. If it did, I cannot comprehend what will happen in the Middle East. We shouldn't even think about this. My biggest hope [for peace] is that Israel stops its excessive use of force in the West Bank. Civilians are being killed in Gaza; children and old people. We have to be just—we cannot say that it's right if one side [uses force] but condemn the other side for doing the same.
© 2008

### President Bush's guffaw:

Indian politicians tell Bush to back off
http://www.ibnlive.com/news/indian-politicians-tell-bush-to-back-off/64500-3.html

New Delhi: One may dismiss it as another Bushism, but the Indian politicians aren't willing to do so.

After US President George Bush expressed concern over a prosperous Indian middle class eating so much that it is causing food to become more expensive in American supermarkets, the Indian political leaders are an angry lot.

If the Bush's brand of economics is to be believed, then India's growing middle class is responsible for food prices shooting up in the US.

"There are 350-million middle class people in India. They are more than the population of America. When you get wealth, you start demanding better nutrition, more food. They want to eat well so our food prices are rising," George Bush said.

His comment almost exactly echoed his Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice earlier this week.

But Bush's comments have not gone down well with the Indian politicians.

"We must certainly send out a message to the United States of America that we are going to look after the welfare of our own people," says Communist Party of India-Marxist Politburo member Brinda Karat.

And the Congress, accused by the Left of being soft on America, can't stomach Bush's reasoning either.

Union Minister of State for Power Jairam Ramesh and Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh says, "George Bush has never been known for his knowledge of economics. I think this just proves how comprehensively wrong he is."

Both US and India are in the threshold of elections and inflation is certainly a key factor in deciding which way the votes will swing.

Clinton stoking anti-semitism

With Friends like Clinton, Israel don't need enemies. According to a new report from the US State department, Anti-Semitism is on rise and her recent statements do nothing more than stoking those sentiments here and abroad.

Nick Mackenzie writes in the religious intelligence report. "Today, more than 60 years after the Holocaust, anti-Semitism is not just a fact of history, it is a current event," the report, presented to Congress on March 13, read. "The distinguishing feature of the new anti-Semitism is criticism of Israeli policy that whether intentionally or unintentionally has the effect of promoting prejudice against all Jews by demonizing Israel and Israelis and attributing Israel's perceived faults to its Jewish character," the report stated.

The anti-Semitic attacks continue to occur in Europe and the United States. Just recently two Jewish commuters were beaten up in the subway for wishing happy Hanukkah. A few years ago a council person referred to the other as “you people” in the Dallas City Hall referring to “Jewish people” as though they were cause of a discrepancy. What is the point in throwing in religion in a civic transaction, unless it anti-Semitism?

Every now and then I read disgusting anti-Semitic comments in stray emails I get from groups all across the world; oddly it is not from Muslims but everyone else. I continue to speak out against such acts and point out the unrighteousness of it. There is a growing perception that Israeli Lobby buys and manipulates our law makers to do things that are detrimental to American as well as the Israeli interests.

Equally disgusting are McCain and Clinton’s comments; one wants to bomb, bomb and bomb Iran and the other wants to “obliterate it’. Give two minutes to John McCain on the TV, he shoots the Anti-Islam rhetoric. I have not seen McCain’s mouth spew out anything but hate and war. Give the same two minutes to Clinton; she wants to be the commander in Chief from day one. It sounds downright stupid to the community of nations that a Democratic America talks about Commander in Chief’s as though we are a dictatorship. Most Americans realize the cheap gimmick to gain votes.

“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” said Edmund Burke. It is time for the moderate majority of Americans of all hues to speak out and discourage the rhetoric of Clinton and McCain.

With friends like Clinton, Jews don’t need enemies. Her words fuel the anti-Semitic repressed sentiments among average Americans and certainly evoke anger in the Middle East; where as McCain’s Islamophobic attitude fuels terrorist outfits like Al-Qaeda. Do we need these two to run our nation down?

To be fair in the media, Clinton’s Obliteration and McCain’s bombing should be looped 24 hours on CNN and Fox like the Wright sound bites.

We need our President who talks and brings peace to the community of nations that is true leadership. We certainly don’t want an eager beaver to sacrifice our men and women and bent on destruction of others.

Mike Ghouse is a writer, speaker, moderator, pluralist and a peace thinker based in Dallas. The list of his Blogs and websites are listed at www.MikeGhouse.net and he can be reached at MikeGhouse@aol.com

Sunday, May 4, 2008

The road not taken

http://interjunction.org/article/the-road-not-taken/

Could the Iraq war have been prevented had the American media asked the right questions? How do conservative media commentators frame the actions of different religious communities? Does the media pay due attention to history? Mike Ghouse reflects on the political impact of mainstream media decisions.

Please visit the site: http://interjunction.org/article/the-road-not-taken/

The road not taken
By Editor on April 23, 2008 6:40 pm

Could the Iraq war have been prevented had the American media asked the right questions? How do conservative media commentators frame the actions of different religious communities? Does the media pay due attention to history? Mike Ghouse reflects on the political impact of mainstream media decisions.

INCREASINGLY FOCUSED ON competitiveness and profits, the mainstream American media is under pressure for its own survival. Indeed, it is at a critical juncture of having to choose between fulfilling its societal responsibility or succumbing to the political compulsions of our times. As a society we need to evaluate the importance of the media in our American system of governance. Does it still play the crucial role the founding fathers of our nation had envisioned for it?

Thomas Jefferson made a strong statement about the role of the media in a democracy when he noted, “If it were left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” Describing the role of the press, George A. Krimsky, the former head of news for the Associated Press’ World Services and co-author of Hold the Press, writes, “In the wake of America’s successful revolution, it was decided there should indeed be government, but only if it were accountable to the people. The people, in turn, could only hold the government accountable if they knew what it was doing and could intercede as necessary, using their ballot, for example. This role of public ‘watchdog’ was thus assumed by a citizen press, and as a consequence, the government in the United States has been kept out of the news business.”

Could one say that the government in the United States was kept out of the news business in the past, but not any more?

In the recent past, NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams told host Howard Kurtz that the Bush administration had “the right” to pay a columnist to tout its views in his column. As this article notes, Kurtz spoke of the “Pentagon planting positive stories, in some cases paying for positive stories in Iraqi newspapers.” The administration also paid journalist Armstrong Williams to promote its No Child Left Behind education policy. The Government Accountability Office, however, determined that the Bush Administration was wrong in promoting its educational policy through Armstrong’s column.

The essence of democracy is the ability to question everything in fairness and without worrying about censure against such inquiry. How many journalists from the mainstream media have failed this test in recent times? Let us examine a few situations and see the specific failures of the American media in each case.

The qualities of a commander-in-chief

As we speak, the airwaves are saturated with coverage of the presidential nominees in both parties. Why aren’t journalists questioning the rhetoric from McCain and Clinton that they are fit to be the commander-in-chief of the nation? We are a democracy, and it is not essential that our government should be run by a military expert. That was not the intent of our system.

I do not expect my president to be an expert in nuclear, biological, botanical, or other sciences and certainly not a military expert. I want a judicious person who can call on real experts as the situation demands and make the right decision in each case.

Journalists can still ask the candidates this question. Will they?

Precedent and patterns in the Rev. Wright controversy

The second week of March 2008 witnessed relentless coverage of Rev. Jeremiah Wright’s sermon, “God Damn America,” in the American media. It was all one could hear on the cable channels. The pundits were suggesting that this might indicate the end of presidential candiate Barack Obama’s political aspirations, given that Wright was Obama’s pastor.

In the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Ralph Luker pointed out that “the quotation comes not from Wright, but from the Rev Martin Luther King Jr’s first address to the Montgomery Improvement Association on December 5, 1955. Both African-American preachers have understood prophetic biblical preaching far better than those who feign shock at and condemn Wright’s words.”

“Obama’s Minister ‘Hates America’ But When My Father Said the Same Sort of Things He Became a Hero To The Republicans” wrote Frank Schaeffer in the OpEdNews. Schaeffer quoted his father, religious right leader, Francis Schaeffer, expressing similar sentiments. “Take Dad’s words” Frank Schaeffer went on to say, “and put them in the mouth of Obama’s preacher (or in the mouth of any black American preacher) and people would be accusing that preacher of treason. Yet, when we the white Religious Right denounced America, the white conservative Americans and top political leaders, called our words ‘godly’ and ‘prophetic’ and a ‘call to repentance.’”

The mainstream media largely failed to investigate if there was a precedent, if some one else had used this kind of language, if the reaction had been different, and why that might have been the case.

The burning of the US embassy in Kosovo

While driving around on Friday, February 22 earlier this year, I listened to every news channel. Our embassy was torched in Kosovo by radicals on that day. The media did not describe the violence as religiously motivated nor name any religious community as the culprit. I believe that was the right approach on the part of the media.

But I wondered: had those radicals been Muslims, what kind of demonization would mainstream conservative commentators like O’Reilly, Hannity, Beck, and Limbaugh have engaged in?

The war in Iraq

As the Bill Moyers Journal’s special edition program, “Buying the War,” compellingly demonstrated, the mainstream American media uncritically accepted the administration’s claims about Saddam Hussein’s ambition to acquire nuclear weapons and his links to Al-Qaeda. The five chapter report speaks for itself.

Had the media stood their ground, perhaps our administration would not have engaged in policies that have resulted in the deaths of over half a million Iraqis as per the figures provided by the medical journal Lancet estimate, 4,000 of our men and women, and a cost of anywhere from 1 to 2 trillion dollars.

Was their inability to ask the right questions of the administration not a colossal blunder on the part of the mainstream media?

Mike Ghouse is a writer and activist based in Dallas. He runs the blogs Foundation for Pluralism and World Muslim Congress.

### Another article one by Bill Moyers,
similar to mine, mine was published two weeks prior

Beware the Terrible Simplifiers

by Bill Moyers
I once asked a reporter back from Vietnam: "Who's telling the truth over there?"

"Everyone," he said. "Everyone sees what's happening through the lens of their own experience."

That's how people see Jeremiah Wright.

In my conversation with him and in his dramatic public appearances since, he revealed himself to be far more complex than the sound bites that propelled him onto the public stage.


More than 2,000 people have written me about him, and their opinions vary widely. Some sting: "Jeremiah Wright is nothing more than a race-hustling, American-hating radical," one of my viewers wrote. Another called him a "nut case."

Many more were sympathetic to him. Many asked for some rational explanation for Wright's transition from reasonable conversation to the shocking anger they saw at the National Press Club.

A psychologist might pull back some of the layers and see this complicated man more clearly, but I'm not a psychologist.

Many black preachers I've known—scholarly, smart, and gentle in person—uncorked fire and brimstone in the pulpit. Of course, I've known many white preachers like that, too.

But where I grew up in the South, before the civil rights movement, the pulpit was a safe place for black men to express anger for which they would have been punished anywhere else. A safe place for the fierce thunder of dignity denied, justice delayed.

I think I would have been angry if my ancestors had been transported thousands of miles in the hellish hole of a slave ship, then sold at auction, humiliated, whipped, and lynched.

Or if my great-great-great grandfather had been but three-fifths of a person in a Constitution that proclaimed: "We, the people."

Or if my own parents had been subjected to the racial vitriol of Jim Crow, Strom Thurmond, Bull Conner, and Jesse Helms.

Even so, the anger of black preachers I've known and heard and reported on was, for them, very personal and cathartic. That's not how Jeremiah Wright came across in those sound bites or in his defiant performances since my interview.

What white America is hearing in his most inflammatory words is an attack on the America they cherish and that many of their sons have died for in battle – forgetting that black Americans have fought and bled beside them, and that Wright himself has a record of honored service in the Navy.

Hardly anyone took the "chickens come home to roost" remark to convey the message that intervention in the political battles of other nations is sure to bring retaliation in some form, which is not to justify the particular savagery of 9/11 but to understand that actions have consequences.

My friend Bernard Weisberger, the historian, says, yes, people are understandably seething with indignation over Wright's absurd charge that the United States deliberately brought an HIV epidemic into being.

But it is a fact, he says, that within living memory the U.S. public health service conducted a study that deliberately deceived black men with syphilis into believing that they were being treated while actually letting them die for the sake of a scientific test.

Does this excuse Wright's anger? His exaggerations or distortions? You'll have to decide for yourself, but at least it helps me to understand the why of them.

In this multimedia age the pulpit isn't only available on Sunday mornings. There's round the clock media – the beast whose hunger is never satisfied, especially for the fast food with emotional content.

So the preacher starts with rational discussion and after much prodding throws more and more gasoline on the fire that will eventually consume everything it touches. He had help – people who, for their own reasons, set out to conflate the man in the pulpit who wasn't running for president with the man in the pew who was.

Behold the double standard: John McCain sought out the endorsement of John Hagee, the war-mongering, Catholic-bashing Texas preacher, who said the people of New Orleans got what they deserved for their sins.

But no one suggests McCain shares Hagee's delusions or thinks AIDS is God's punishment for homosexuality. Pat Robertson called for the assassination of a foreign head of state and asked God to remove Supreme Court justices, yet he remains a force in the Republican religious right.

After 9/11, Jerry Falwell said the attack was God's judgment on America for having been driven out of our schools and the public square, but when McCain goes after the endorsement of the preacher he once condemned as an agent of intolerance, the press gives him a pass.

Jon Stewart recently played tape from the Nixon White House in which Billy Graham talks in the Oval Office about how he has friends who are Jewish, but he knows in his heart that they are undermining America.

This is crazy and wrong -- white preachers are given leeway in politics that others aren't.

Which means it is all about race, isn't it?

Wright's offensive opinions and inflammatory appearances are judged differently. He doesn't fire a shot in anger, put a noose around anyone's neck, call for insurrection, or plant a bomb in a church with children in Sunday school.

What he does is to speak his mind in a language and style that unsettles some people, and says some things so outlandish and ill-advised that he finally leaves Obama no choice but to end their friendship.

We're often exposed to the corroding acid of the politics of personal destruction, but I've never seen anything like this – this wrenching break between pastor and parishioner played out right in front of our eyes.

Both men no doubt will carry the grief to their graves. All the rest of us should hang our heads in shame for letting it come to this in America, where the gluttony of the non-stop media grinder consumes us all and prevents an honest conversation on race.

It is the price we are paying for failing to heed the great historian Jacob Burckhardt, who said, "beware the terrible simplifiers."
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About author
Bill Moyers is managing editor of the weekly public affairs program Bill Moyers Journal, which airs Friday night on PBS. Check local airtimes or comment at The Moyers Blog at www.pbs.org/moyers.

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"Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocrities. The latter cannot understand it when a man does not thoughtlessly submit to hereditary prejudices but honestly and courageously uses his intelligence." -- Albert Einstein