Life is an Open Secret 2

Sis Zabrina (more affectionately known as Bina to family and close friends) had her second book launch at KL Tower yesterday, 15^th July 2008. The title of the book is: Life is an Open Secret – You, Me and We.

Even though my schedule was hectic, I managed to be there on time – I couldn’t break my promise to Bina and I told myself I had to meet her as she couldn’t make it to my place when we had our gathering on the 21^st of June.

As expected, Bina was clad in white attire with small red floral embroidery. I was greeted with her signature smile and tight hugs – it was great to be physically in contact with someone who, especially for the past two years, has been your loyal friend at odd hours via technology (chats and sms-es).

According to Bina, 6 months after her first book was released, she was “bombarded” with questions of when her next book release would be. She had no idea herself but she soon got her inspiration from Oprah Winfrey’s words: “Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down." Minutes earlier, I had read this while skimming through the Preface of her book. However, the impact only hit me when Bina stood there, behind the rostrum, verbalizing what she had written. I cried. And I couldn’t stop crying. I could relate to those words personally – I have gone through many rounds of hardships (though still nothing compared to millions of others) and I already know friends who will ride the bus with me. Those who would stick to you no matter what – come rain or shine. They lend you a shoulder, an ear, a hand, and even offer you a piece of their hearts when you are tested, and when your feelings and Imaan are low. They are not selective of trivial or petty matters because a friend in need is a friend indeed.

One of the stories Bina related in her opening speech yesterday was about a couple who were visited by three men: Wealth, Success and Love. The ‘trick’ was that they could only choose one of the three to enter and they had to make the best decision. After conferring with one another, the couple finally decided to invite Love in. True enough, they made the right move; Love succeeded everything thus Wealth and Success were able to follow suit. Tears wet my cheeks again. It was something that has been proven true in my life.

Love comes from the heart and is pure and genuine. It can neither be forced, nor can it be bought. Love beckons good-will and generates positivism. It nurtures on simplicity and feelings of contentment. Love feeds a withering soul, a dying individual. It brings a smile and brightens a home. Love is everything.

On the other hand, Wealth and Success are both rezki - the Almighty gives them to whom He blesses. But they are both pleasures of the world: temporary and subjective.

In summary, get your copy of Life is an Open Secret - You, me and we. To those in the UK, you can place your orders here!! :)