A Tale for Those Struggling with Impatience

Bishr al-Hafi had left all evils behind in his youth. Not only because he was ungrateful, but also because he had forgotten the paradise within his heart. One day, a dervish who came to his village prayed in front of the entire congregation. As Bishr watched this scene, he was engulfed by a deep unease; he felt the stirrings in his soul. The first thought that crossed his mind at that moment was the desire for purification. One night in a dream, he saw that the dervish was addressing him; 'The fruit within you, when watered with patience, will bloom the most beautiful flowers.' As the memories of his old life revolved in his mind, a feeling of regret enveloped his entire being. He made a decision immediately. With the first light of dawn, he bid farewell to his loved ones and distanced himself from the village. That day, he returned to his past with prayers and began to cleanse the depths of his heart. Wherever he went afterward, he endeavored to do good while remembering Allah. Bishr would now become a name that touched not only his own heart but the hearts of everyone.