Try to be left the hell alone..

In our time, no compliment can be kindlier than being called a loner. As a matter of fact, it’s a confirmation of your preference to be left the hell alone, and how you wouldn’t rest your comfort and worth on society’s approval.

People take me for a weirdo when I say this, but that’s before they get played by the very people that they share private matters with - that’s the time they appreciate why I prefer to separate myself from a good number circles – be it social, relational or occupational.

For my part, progress has been healthy so far, because I don’t feel obligated to be part of any group, especially seeing how most groups end up being barely audible because of disagreeing purposes. I don’t have to worry about any rivalry, infighting, changeable characters, or about folks blowing petty things out of proportion.

I try to do what I think is proper even if I am going to be left without a friend. I don’t want to dress like anyone. In fact I wear Khaftan on Mondays and Jeans on Fridays - that way, I wouldn’t look like anyone. I don’t write or speak like anyone - I have my own accent, but that’s because I am not anyone – and when folks do their dhikr, I respect them, but I meditate alone.

If I don’t have the time, I don’t put myself under any pressure to grace any social gathering. I can always make up for the ones I need to, and I don’t care who boycotts mine. Hungry people will come anyways, even if uninvited – and i am if you think I am on an ego trip right now.

Last but not least, if I should die before y’all, and you have the time to do an epitaph for me, let it say: “In memory of Mr. 'Leave-me-the-hell-alone' RIP.”