Tassel Turned - Embracing the Barakah of Graduation
Sarah Soleman
Assalamu Alaikum, dear graduates and future changemakers!
The final bell has rung, the tassel has been turned, and diplomas have been handed out.
Wherever your heart lies right now—joyful, nervous, exhausted, or all three—this moment is
sacred. It’s not just the end of high school. It’s a ni’mah, a blessing. And more than that, it’s
barakah—divine goodness and increase from Allah ﷻ
Let’s talk about what that really means.
For many of us, school has been our second home. We’ve balanced AP exams with fasting,
performed wudu in between passing periods, and defended who we are with strength when
others didn’t understand our headscarf or our salah. High school was never just about
textbooks—it was a training ground for resilience.
Now, as you walk away from that chapter, know that you’re not walking alone. Every late-night
dua, every ounce of patience you practiced, every small act of integrity you held onto when it
would’ve been easier to let go—Allah saw it. And He is Al-Shakoor, the Most Appreciative.
Graduation is proof that your efforts were not in vain. But the real gift? It’s the barakah that will
follow you if you continue to keep Him close.
In Surah An-Najm, Allah says:
“And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives.” (53:39)
You studied. You sacrificed. You said no to things that could’ve derailed your path. That striving
is an act of worship. And now, every door that opens—college, career, a gap year, or something
completely unexpected—is a door that Allah is unlocking because of that effort.
This is the barakah of movement. Of showing up, even when you didn’t feel like it. Allah puts
blessing in the grind. Don’t ever think your small actions didn’t count.
Graduation is often painted as a moment of freedom. But for Muslims, freedom is only beautiful
when it’s rooted in intention. As you step into the next phase—whether it’s university, work, or
exploring who you are—take a moment to ask yourself: Why am I doing this?
The Prophet ﷺ said,
“Actions are judged by intentions.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Make your next chapter not just about success, but about purpose. Maybe your purpose is to
become a doctor to serve underprivileged communities. Maybe it’s to be a writer who tells untold
stories. Maybe it’s just to be someone who carries their deen quietly and powerfully into spaces
where it’s rarely seen.
Wherever you go, carry the light of your intention with you. That’s where the barakah lies.
Lastly, as you celebrate, don’t forget to ground yourself in gratitude. Say Alhamdulillah for the
past and Bismillah for the future.
Here are a few duas to whisper in your heart as you move forward:
“Rabbi zidni ‘ilma” - “My Lord, increase me in knowledge.” (20:114)
“Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel” - “Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs.” (3:173)
“Rabbi yassir wa la tu’assir, wa tammim bil khayr” - “O my Lord, make it easy, not difficult, and bring it to a good end.”
Graduation is a time to celebrate your wins, and you should. But it’s also a time to remember
that your success is a trust. The education you’ve gained is a tool. The voice you’re finding is
powerful. Use it.
Make space for those who couldn’t graduate. For the kids in Gaza whose schools are rubble.
For the refugees whose transcripts were lost in war. For the ones who carry dreams but not
diplomas. Remember them. Make dua for them. Let your gratitude become action.
