in Shawwal, and he consummated the marriage with me in Shawwal as well. She would then remark, “Which of you enjoys greater favor with him than I?” There is no doubt that ʿĀʾishah was the wife he loved most after marrying her, yet in spite of that he concluded the marriage contract with her in Shawwal and consummated it in Shawwal, while the Arabs—out of ignorance and triviality—used to say, “Whoever marries in Shawwal will never prosper.” Even today we see people marrying in Shawwal and finding nothing but good.

The important thing, therefore, is to erase every trace of tatayyur (superstitious pessimism) from your heart. Be ever optimistic. Picture the world before you as wide, the road ahead as always open. The Messenger ﷺ detested evil omens but was pleased with a good, hopeful word, so keep yourself constantly expectant of good. Whatever Allah wills will come to pass, but meet it with cheer and joy. The world lies broad before you and the path is clear—remain optimistic, keep your heart expansive, for that is true goodness. As for pessimism, constriction, and worrying about every little thing, they will only make life seem tight and suffocating.