Ismat Un-Nisa

Exerpts from a letter by Ismat Un-Nisa Sheikh
to her American students:

I would strongly urge you all to continue with the Darood / Peace & Salutation that was utilised during the workshop. I humbly suggest that the following simple rules should be observed to the best of your ability:

• Little but often. It is better to undertake a daily 15 minute meditation or reading daily than a large session as it will keep you disciplined, focused and motivated.

• Shower or ritual cleanliness. Washing is the beginning of the meditation, and an excellent preparation that will quieten the mind. It is analogous to divine fuel that will power your inner space shuttle into orbit and beyond.

• Sit in a comfortable position. You will remain focused and the whole experience will be more rewarding.

• Keep a dream journal. You will discover that your dreams will become more lucid, sharper and knowledge will accrue.

• The more you meditate or recite the Darood you will become like a fruit tree that is laden heavy with love and humility. Your friends, family and colleagues will benefit from presence and eat from you.

Additionally you will become more patient, thankful and dynamically content in a worldly and other-worldly context. For example you should aim and work for 100000 dollars if you make 50000 you should be patient and continue for 100000 with a smile on your face. On the other hand if you make 150000 you should be thankful. Either way you should feel content. Thus you will correctly handle each situation you encounter with courage and learn from your mistakes.


Faisal answering an American student's questions about his mother:

• Q:How long does she meditate at a time?
  

A:I would say 15-20 minutes

• Q:How long has she been in the order?

A:20 + years

• Q:How long did she study with our Pir?

A:Study is 24 hours / 7days a week! You probably mean physical proximity- well ever since my mother joined the order when she would go to Pakistan she would spend usually a day or sometimes a night in intensive discussions. Obviously she has read all the books.

• Q:Does she ever lose her temper?

A: YES - I CAN VOUCH TO IT. I HAVE BEEN ON THE RECEIVING END MANY A TIME!!!

• Q:How many students does she teach?

A:I would say that we brothers (including you) and my sister are full time. Apart from that mom operates an open door policy. Usually women come with wordly problems, it is rare that people demand gnostic experience/growth.

• Q:How old is she?

A:Mid 50'S