Feeling Constricted?
Walking the Pathway of Constriction
During this time, I found myself on what I’ve come to call the Pathway of Constriction—a season in life where we feel reduced, slowed down, or even stuck. It’s a path that often carries feelings of regret, loss, and uncertainty.
We live in a world that glorifies constant growth—setting bigger goals, achieving more, and always moving forward. But I’ve come to realize that true growth doesn’t always look like expansion. Sometimes, growth requires stillness, reflection, and letting go.
In His infinite wisdom, Allah is Al-Khafid—The Constrictor, The Reducer. And I’ve learned to see these moments of constriction not as setbacks but as divine blessings. They invite us to refocus on what truly matters.
Wisdom in Closing and Opening
A quote by Rumi has brought me great comfort during this time:
“Just look at your hand. Closing the fist always precedes opening it. A hand that’s always closed or open is a crippled hand. A hand that closes and opens is useful. Your heart also contracts and expands, just like a bird needs to close and open its wings to fly.”
This imagery reminds me that constriction and expansion are not opposites—they are partners. Just as a bird cannot soar without both closing and opening its wings, we, too, need moments of stillness to prepare us for flight.
Lessons from the Prophet’s Retreat
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sought solitude in the cave of Hira during times of difficulty and reflection. In his retreat, he taught us the power of introspection and reconnecting with Allah, especially during periods of constriction.
His example reminds us that these quieter, more reduced seasons of life are not failures. They are invitations to draw closer to Allah and rediscover our purpose.
Reflection for This Week
If you’re walking your own Pathway of Constriction, take this as an opportunity to:
- Draw inward. Create space for stillness and prayer.
- Set boundaries. Protect your energy and focus on what matters most.
- Trust Allah’s wisdom. Remember that reduction can be preparation for greater growth and expansion ahead.
Embracing the Blessing of Reduction
I’m learning to see this period of constriction as part of my journey—not a detour, but a destination with its own purpose. And I’m praying that through this stillness, I can reconnect with Allah and emerge stronger and more grounded.
May we all find peace in knowing that even in reduction, Allah’s blessings are present. Sometimes it’s in the closing of our hands and hearts that we prepare ourselves to open them fully once again.