Newcastle is a town in north-west KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on the Ncandu River. It is moderately industrial..The town was strategically placed in 1854
by the Surveyor General of the Natal Colony, Dr PC Sutherland. The town was later known as the Waterfall River Township because of the Ncandu River. A. W. Sadathullah Khan’s, “Discover Yourself” Workshop was held in this historic town. on February 29, 1 and 2 March 2008.
The participants felt a cool stream of calmness in their lives after attending the Workshop. Here, they share their experiences in their own words.
Asma: Alhamdulillah, my outlook towards life is a bit better. I have built up my self-esteem, as my self-esteem was so low that I was depressed. My temper is something I could not control, but these three days I have not lost it even once. I was in control and I am proud of myself. My daughters have found me as they say, “Mummy has really changed”. My husband praised me. I can see the change in myself after the workshop.
Ameena: My children saw the difference in me and asked what happened to me. I did not realize my error and mistakes and bad habits until pointed out to me because I thought I was right, now that I see myself as the villain I can make a difference. Jazakallah, for making a difference to my life.
Ayesha: Participating in this workshop has helped me to achieve many things which have brought peace and calmness in my heart. By forgiving and letting go of the issues which I carried with me till now, I felt so much lighter and I actually realized as to what is love. I have learnt the importance of ‘keeping to my word’ which I never realised the consequences thereof and how much this was affecting my life. This workshop has created awareness in my heart and brought me closer to my Creator.
Aamena.D: I have accomplished a lot. I understood how our mind works and why I feel sad or just not be happy? I have realised that I make my present and my future. I am learning to be patient, to stay calm not to fight back. I stopped judging people. All I can say is that I feel very lucky to attend this workshop at such a young age and now I can control my life and have peace. Thank you for having shown me how simple life is and giving me the opportunity to discover myself at a young age.
Fatima: As mother and a wife, I have benefited from your workshop. My handicap resulting from an accident was affecting me and now I learnt how to overcome anger, to be patient, positive and turn to Allah. It has taught me how to forgive. I will ‘honour my word’ and this will make me sincere and honest. I believe that my happiness is in my hands I am solely responsible for it. Now I feel rejuvenated. This workshop is good for anybody.
Munirah: You have opened my way and shown me the light! Islam has come into perspective. The workshop is fulfilling, very apt, enlightening, educational and the benefits are innumerable.
Sadia: I accomplished a lot. I now understand so much more about myself. I understand my own emotions and I can deal with it because I know that it will not get out of control and there will be no fights, arguments, but rather solutions. Jazakallah, for opening our minds and allowing me, to be my true self.
Haseena: I have just attended the last day of the workshop due to my illness. I have achieved peace of mind and contentment. My personal interaction with you has opened me and made me realise that I must face reality and I must make a decision, otherwise I will destroy myself. May Allah reward you for your great workshop.
Faysal: I have begun to look at myself in a new way. The Workshop was a wonderful experience and my family could see a considerable change.
Ismail: The Workshop gave me a better understanding of the source of my problems. Before I was always getting angry for minor issues and not thinking well before doing something. My wife was very understanding and willing to work with me to change for the better.
Sakina: By only attending the last day and listening to the first half of the seminar, it has humbled me and my thoughts, and my feelings towards those around me. All these things we know as I read many motivational books. It has softened my ways and mannerism in approaching my relatives. It has also opened my eyes to many things. Jazakallah, for your simplicity and hoping to see you soon again.
