I left my heart in Makkah

By Halimah Nassanga
For Muslims, the anticipation of making the pilgrimage to Makkah evokes a unique blend of emotions. Excitement builds, often accompanied by a growing sense of anxiety as the departure date for the holy land approaches.
As prepared for my journey, the inspiring chants of the pilgrimage – Labbayka Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Inna al-hamd wa’l-ni’mata laka wa’l-mulk, la sharika lak (Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, You have no partner) echoed in my mind, filling me with longing. I eagerly anticipated the moment I would join the throngs of faithful, invoking Allah’s name as I approached the Sacred Kaabah.
Stepping off the plane at Jeddah international airport, Saudi Arabia, I was overwhelmed by a mix emotion – excitement, nervousness, and above all, gratitude. I had long awaited this sacred journey to Makkah and Madinah, a pilgrimage I never imagined would unfold so soon in my life. Yet, it arrived precisely when I needed it most. I really felt like I had indeed been invited by Allah.
My sacred journey commenced in Madinah, the blessed city of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), where tranquility reigns supreme. It brought so much peace and comfort to my heart. This being the most peaceful and calm place I have ever been to, setting my entire life at peace.
Visiting Masjid an-Nabawi, the sacred Mosque of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), was a deeply stirring experience. I had the privilege of accessing Rawdah, a revered site known as a gateway to Paradise (Jannah). Standing there, I felt an overwhelming sense of assurance that I was among those chosen and remembered by Allah.
From Madinah, I traveled to Makkah, the city where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was born.

The majestic sound of the Adhan – the call to prayer, reverberated from Masjid al-Haram, filling the air with spiritual feeling, bringing so much peace to my heart. Then, catching my first glimpse of the Kaabah, I was overcome with an indescribable mix of emotions that I can’t express by mere words.
With each of the seven circuits around the Kaaba, my devotion grew. On the final round, I touched the sacred Black stone, my heart overflowing with devotion and humility. As I completed the rituals of Umrah, I felt a deep sense of unity with my faith. I felt the love of Allah that I had never felt before in my entire life.
Beyond the physical act of pilgrimage, my travels to Makkah and Madinah ignited a spiritual rebirth. I reassessed my life, faith, and relationships, and discovered the vital importance of embracing humility, cultivating gratitude, and compassion.
On the journey back home, I was overtaken by tawakul (trust in Allah), felt transformed, renewed, and inspired to live a life of purpose and devotion. The sacred memories of Makkah and Madinah are etched in my heart forever, a reminder of the power of faith and the beauty of Islam.
This journey was a dream come true. It reminded me of the beauty and unity of Islam and inspired me to deepen my faith and connection with Allah.