 Covid-19 has us all thinking about our own mortality, families are thinking about what happens to my family if I die too soon. Unfortunately, most families only own life insurance through their employer, yet we cannot depend on life insurance on our jobs because our jobs are not guaranteed and, usually they will not provide enough life insurance coverage to: leave your family the ability to pay all the expenses that you were covering for them while alive and leave them a legacy. In the Holy Quran, Surah Baqarah 2:240 states that, “husbands that die with a wife left behind to bequest maintenance for at least 1 year”. We must make sure our family can sustain whether we are living or returned back to Allah, it’s our duty. Life insurance is the best way to do that because it provides an instant estate for your heirs, think about it, when most people want to leave their families houses, why not leave them MONEY, which will pay for the homes and other items. Term life insurance is the best way to accomplish this, it’s low cost which makes it easier to purchase larger amounts to be able to leave generational wealth, it’s pure insurance and works like your car/home insurance because you’re only paying for protection. I always say, “Death is the only Guarantee in life and Life insurance is the cheapest insurance you can buy, because you get to name your own price”. Let’s make sure we are gifting from the grave as our family is gifting us with dua’a from earth. My Salaams Helena ClemonsHelena Clemons is a native of Brooklyn, NY; where she has resided in Atlanta, GA for the past 15 years; and has been state licensed in Life & Health insurance and a Financial Coach for 20 years. She’s been happily married for 25 years and has 4 adult children. Helena and her family also run a family business MBGW GLOBAL LLC of which she is the CEO/CFO: their focus is business development, real estate, health initiatives and novelties that make a statement. She dedicates her time educating families about business, wealth generation and credit repair, as she truly believes in group economics and community empowerment.
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 Its important to recognize that this pandemic has been a trial that Allah has placed on us during this time. As such marriages will be tested. Tests can make a relationship stronger or no longer. The quality of the pre-pandemic relationship can be the determining factor of how a marriage will sustain itself while we shelter in place. The couples who have a healthy loving relationship during normal times will not have any difficulty spending quality time with their mates during these times. Many who marry take the ayat from Allah to heart where he stated "They (your wives) are a clothing (covering) for you and you too are a clothing (covering) for them." (Surah 2, Verse187) I view this ayat from the perspective that clothing serves as a protection for us against the elements, similarly marriage serves as a protection from many psychological, physical, and spiritual elements. We must be protective of one another in normal times, and especially so during this pandemic. We do not know how long the world will be in this present state of pandemia. Just as sickness is a means of expiation of sins we have to view the sickness that has enveloped the planet as a means of purification for the planet. With this in mind we have to practice patience with ourselves and with each other. How does the pandemic impact marriages? If we don’t manage our stress and anger it can cause toxicity to be present in the household. "And one of His signs is that He has created for you, spouses from amongst yourselves so that you might take comfort in them and He has placed between you, love and mercy. In this there is surely evidence (of the truth) for the people who carefully think." (Surah 30, Verse 21) We must work to dwell with our mates as Allah ordained in these ayats. We must work to identify means of maintaining tranquility during these times. Here are some suggestions that make weathering this pandemic bearable, and more pleasant: - Pray and fast, and study together more often. - Daily Communications with your spouse that includes active listening. - Allow the relationship to breathe. Take time for yourself, and spend time together. - Establish an exercise regiment individually or as a couple. (Ex. walks, meditation, working out.) - Date safely( Drive-In or movie night @ home, dining out at restaurants that observe pandemic protocols, board games, etc. Above all remember the five love languages as you interact with each other, and know each other’s love language. ( http://www.5lovelanguages.com). The pandemic can be an opportunity to strengthen your bond with your mate. Use the time that Allah has given us wisely; so that when it is lifted our love cups will be overflowing. “ The Best Of You Are Those Who Are Best To Their Women.” Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) Imam Nadim Sulaiman Ali, LPC,MAC Nadimali.com 01/05/1442 A.H.- 08/24/2020 C.E. Nadim Ali LPC, MACBorn in Chester, Pa. Married father of 5. Imam of the Community Masjid of Atlanta since 2005. Former convener for the Majlis Ash-Shura of Atlanta. Founding member of MANA(Muslim Alliance Of North America) & current member of the MANA Diwan. Co- Founder of the Da’wah Ensemble Spoken Word Acappella Group. MA in Counseling Psychology, Georgia School Of Professional Psychology. Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC) & Master Addiction Counselor in private practice.  Bismillah Twenty plus years ago, when we first got married, we sat down to write out our goals. Knowledge and experience was a thread all our goals had in common. We wanted to learn from and experience life, and we wanted the same for our children. Farming and homesteading wasn't forefront in our minds but we both came from families where farming/gardening/homestead type activities were just a part of living (even in the city). We’ve had a garden wherever we’ve lived (California, Sudan, Kuwait, Qatar, & Mexico). We’ve always educated our children at home and this allowed us to try and teach them some practical life skills/Sunnah along the way, while encouraging them to pursue and practice their own interest (woodworking, horseback riding, fiber arts, leatherworking, animal husbandry, mechanics, cooking, etc). We currently live in Oregon and moved here so that we could live on a larger property where our seven children could have space to grow, meet our needs via the land, and have enough to share with the community. We’ve yet to find that balance where we can have land and community. We are the only Muslims in our town. We realize as our children mature that being near a Muslim community is very important. We cannot teach them everything. It’s not easy to have a full time job and try and homestead. We do most things here by hand (milking the cow, harvesting hay, digging ponds, building, etc.) which we enjoy but also know that it’s labor intensive. It’s helped us all appreciate hard work and not take things for granted. When we slaughter our own meat, it’s an animal we’ve raised from birth and loved. It brings an appreciation for that meat that we’d never get from buying it, and it means that we eat a lot less meat! As a Black and Mexican family we are blessed to own our own property and have the opportunity and knowledge to farm and homeschool our children. We get to see a lot of things come full circle here. Even with all our trial and error it’s nice to know how much grass we need to scythe to have enough hay for the winter. It is comforting to know that the hard work of canning and dehydrating in the summer can feed us through the cold months. We feel that, through this lifestyle, we continue to gain knowledge and experience that keep us grounded. Homesteading has included a lot of trail and error, and we learned an immense amount from that. We’ve built, torn down, and moved many gardens, fences and structures. We’ve learned to be a lot more flexible with our vision and timetable. Sometimes we’ve had to slow down or stop when major things happen (like births or moving). We’ve also tried to decolonize our homesteading practices, which includes studying the knowledge of our ancestors who were caretakers of the earth. We want to revitalize the earth, not deplete it. Roots 'n Earth Family FarmRoots n Earth is our family farm. We’re a big Mexican-Jamaican Muslim family living in Oregon. We practice sustainable, ancestral gardening and love doing things with our hands like crafting and woodworking.  I am Muti’ah Lennora Joyce Pierrot, as a native of St. Lucia with an ambitious mother coupled with an innovative father. I have always seen opportunity and have always been surrounded by service at an early age. I was, raised in a rural area of St. Lucia, in the town of Bexon. My grandparents were farmers and business owners, which instilled in me a hard work ethic. Becoming Muslim at the age of nineteen was my introduction to the vastness of Africa as a continent. I studied Midwifery in the countries of Senegal and South Africa, specifically in the cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria. During the completion of Hajj, the pilgrimage at the Kaaba in Madina, Saudia Arabia, was the catalyst to assist me in understanding my purpose. My current role as Founder and CEO of BABI-BIBS AND BLANKETS INTERNATIONAL along with Manager of the Special Collections at The Ford Motor Company Library/LRC at Tuskegee University, helped catalyze me stepping in the political race for the position of The City Tuskegee District 1 Council member. The life-long learning skills and knowledge that I have gained throughout my didactic progression continues to be the motivating factor for me to become proficient in the field of preserving the history and the legacy of the Global Village. As an educator and business owner who looks at life experience as the building block to empathy. Starting at the grass-root, local level within my district for councilperson was what came to my soul. I stepped out on faith and ran alongside two respected elder candidates who both are rooted in the community, the message that there are younger candidates that needs mentorship as our Village is growing into a new future of constant uncertain changes. I offered myself for service to my community and asked for endorsements on behalf of being the youngest political candidates for my district and the need to support our youth in all areas. My platform was based on the fundamental needs of our community
“The Win is in The Ability to Run”, is the foundation of my life. “Youth Guided & Elder Led” is the message of my campaign along with the message for our community. “A Change You Can See” is what we work on daily as a message of collaborative framework within our community. As I am fortunate enough to have a family that is active in supporting me, our work is getting done daily. Thank you to everyone who is a part of the growth in my Village and in all other communities. Mu'tiah Lennora PierrotA native of St. Lucia, Mu'tiah Lennora Pierrot also prides herself as being an educator and business women with a passion for History. She is the mother of nine children and a devoted wife who is currently running for office in Tuskegee Alabama.  During these past few months, there has been so many different emotions that we have been experiencing. Some of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and fear while others may be feeling higher levels of intuitiveness, reflectiveness and mindfulness. Our personal feelings are susceptible to change depending on our individual experiences, spirituality, and outlook on life. As we go through making adjustments in our daily lives whether that is with our jobs, family, social interactions, or simply going into public spaces. It is imperative that we take out moments for our personal self-reflections in order to find balance and take care of our health holistically. One of the ways that we can do this is by implementing a self-care routine into our daily lifestyles. The term has become more popular in the last few years as we find our selves being more conscious of our mental states and understanding more how mental health is a vital key to our wellness. Self-care encourages us to maintain a healthy relationships with ourselves so that you may transmit the good energy to others. Indeed self-care as is far from selfish, but rather self-care is a necessity that allows us to become the best version of ourselves for our well-being and the people around us. Paying attention to our well-being, is necessary for reinvigorating, restoring and rejuvenating ourselves. Everyone around us also benefits from the renewed energy, peacefulness, and joy that we exhibit internally. There are so many ways to engage in self-care routines some in which include meditation, reading a book, stretching, taking a nature walk, or simply soaking in the tub. I personally try to alternate in which self-care techniques that I engage in. Whichever self-care technique that we choose to engage in allow it is be an intentional catalyst for personal healing and reflection. More than ever we have to engage in these positive acts of self-love. Mecca East MPHMecca N. East is the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of Salaam Clinic, a free clinic located in Cleveland, OH. She is the Founder and CEO of Imani Wellness Institute. She is also a certified doula and community health advocate and dedicates her time promoting health education and wellness to the community. She recieved her Bachelor's degree in Biology/Pre-Medicine in 2004 from Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. In 2017, she received her Master's degree in Public Health from The George Washington University in D.C. Mecca is committed to uplifting the community in which she serves by improving health outcomes through empowering individuals and families to embrace healthy lifestyles.  “According to a 2009 study of standardized testing, homeschoolers scored in the 86th percentile. The results held true even when controlling for parents' income level, amount of education, teaching credentials, and level of state regulation. Research also suggests that homeschooled kids get into college more often and do better once they're enrolled.”(Weller, 2016) If no one has told you, you are the best teacher for your child. You are their role model, superhero, and confidant. As you raise your protege, you always want to be their biggest influence. I am here to tell you that homeschooling is one of the best decisions you can make for your family if these are your goals. Your children will only be children for a small portion of their lives, so every moment matters. Making the decision to homeschool is an investment, that if done right will have a lasting positive impact. It will give you the flexibility to have that positive influence you are seeking. Making the Decision: As a former public and private school educator, I know firsthand the impact parents have on their children's education. It tends to look something like, the more involved the more likely it is the student will be successful in school Now how would that look if the parents were the school? As a matter of fact, Chris Weller of Business Insider stated “According to leading pedagogical research, at-home instruction may just be the most relevant, responsible, and effective way to educate children in the 21st century.”(2016). This sums up exactly why YOU should be teaching YOUR child. Curriculum: One of the most intimidating things about home school is often what to teach. Tons of highly educated gurus have already laid out a map of what each student in America should be learning from birth to 12th grade. You as the purveyor of your child’s school have the authority to choose from the thousands of options available. Kaylene of Autisticmama.com recommends you consider the following when selecting a curriculum:
Don’t make this a daunting decision, you know your child better than anyone. You also know what is most important to teach and not teach your student. Choose a curriculum that best reflects your spiritual, academic, and social beliefs. This isn’t rocket science, but it could be. Our Network: Makkah International Institute would like to give you peace of mind. Homeschooling can be overwhelming, and we are here to walk you through every step of the journey. We offer mentorship to parents who are in need of guidance from professionally trained teachers and experienced homeschoolers. Additionally we have a preselected curriculum that has been tried and tested. Families that join the Makkah International Institute Homeschool Network will be able to join us for monthly outings that support the learning goals. For those parents who do not believe that they have the time or experience to research and vet homeschool curriculum, we are offering online virtual learning that families can access from the safety of their homes. Whatever it is that you are looking for in a homeschool, we are here to assist. Feel Comforted in Your Choice: When your child is grown, successful, and content, know that you did your best. You chose what was best for them and would have the best outcomes. In actuality, you only have about a solid 13-14 years to have an impactful impression on your child, afterwards they are typically set in a mold that is who they will be for a lifetime. Increased positive interactions with parents along with decreased interactions with deviant peers are main factors that predict whether children will engage in problem behaviors such as academic failure, risky sexual behavior, and substance use (Ary, Duncan, Duncan, & Hops, 1999). If this is not enough evidence to homeschool them then know that your positive modeling will instill good manners in your child. Furthermore, the Prophet (SAW) stated that the best of us is the one with the best manners (Al Bukhari). If your child does not learn a single letter sound (which they should), it is OK because what matters most is their deeds which you can influence as their first teacher. If you are interested in homeschooling, you are personally invited to join our homeschool network which gives you the option to enroll your child in virtual classes during the pandemic with highly qualified teachers. Visit http://www.makkahinstitute.org/homeschool-network.html Ary, D., Duncan, T., Duncan, S., & Hops, H. (1999, March). Adolescent problem behavior: The influence of parents and peers. Retrieved August 22, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10087640 Kaylene. (2017, June 13). 7 Simple Steps to Choosing Homeschool Curriculum. Retrieved August 19, 2020, from https://autisticmama.com/how-to-choose-the-right-homeschool-curriculum/]poiuolp;[‘ Weller, C. (2016, August 20). Homeschooling is the smartest way to teach kids in the 21st century. Retrieved August 19, 2020, from https://www.businessinsider.com/why-kids-should-get-homeschooled-2016-8 Reshelle Abdul-Malik M.A.T.Reshelle is the editor of A Message from Makkah. She is also the administrator for Makkah International Institute. Reshelle is a masters degreed educator with with over ten years experience teaching domestically and abroad.  Qadr. A simple four-letter word yet a difficult concept to grasp. One of the pillars of Imaan, to believe in fate—good or bad. I never truly understood the meaning of this as a child when I learned the pillars at Saturday and Sunday school. I have gained new insight of Qadr over time. I would like to give you a glimpse of my journey, including my struggles with grasping Qadr. During my senior year of high school, my family and I were in a motor vehicle accident. Alhamdulilah, we all survived but not without injuries. My mother broke her chest and fractured her ankle, my younger sisters suffered concussions and a sprained ankle, and I severed my spinal cord, leaving me paralyzed from mid-chest down. I distinctly remember the moment of impact. I felt excruciating pain and could not breathe. I believed I was seconds away from death. I repeated “La ilaaha ilall laah” and attempted to feel and move my legs, but to no avail. The months and years following were a challenging time for me and my family. I had several surgeries, was admitted to a rehabilitation center for extensive physical and occupational therapy, and had to learn how to navigate the world differently—being in a wheelchair. At the time, I did not understand the severity of the situation. The independence I once had was stripped from me. I thought I was being punished. I shifted away from Allah and friends and withdrew to myself. I was scared to venture out into the world differently abled. With the support of my friends and family, I was able to conquer my fears. Despite my adversities, I continued to shine a bright light in my community through the continued support. I completed coursework at the hospital to ensure I could graduate high school on time. I then moved on to college, in which I participated in many clubs and continued to blossom while navigating my new lifestyle. In Fall 2018, I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Biochemistry degree in hopes to start medical school, insha’Allah. I regained that independence I believed I lost. Qadr comforts me. It is also a concept I still have difficulties with. I continue to remind myself what is written, is what will occur. Allah knows best. He knows best for me and for mankind. This grounds me and aids in my perseverance. Despite unfortunate circumstances, there is light at the end of the tunnel. If I have learned one thing, it is that your circumstances do not define who you are, but they can and do shape you. Alhamdulilah for what I have endured, will endure, and will continue to endure. Edil NourEdil Nour is a 24 year old first generation Somali American. She was born and raised in Georgia. She currently resides in Lawerenceville, GA with her family. Edil is pursuing a career in the medical field.  A food bank is a non-profit organization created for the purpose of collecting and distributing food for those who don’t have the means or it’s difficult for them to acquire it themselves. Some food banks run as “front line”, meaning they personally give food directly to the hungry. Other’s run as “warehouses”, collecting food then sending it out to smaller food banks, soup kitchens, and other front line organizations, mostly in other countries. The first food bank was St. Mary’s Food Bank, established in the USA in 1967. Over the past 50 years, thousands of food banks have been established across the country. Europe, which had little use for food banks due to they’re extensive welfare system, had food banks sprouting all over rapidly because of the global increase in the price of food in 2006, and even more especially after the financial crisis of 2007-08. With thousands of food banks around the world, there are many different models and operating systems. Since the global pandemic we are currently in this year 2020, with social distancing and sheltering in place, many people are in desperate need of food and personal care items. Here’s a few insha’Allah these will help ease the burden: *Masjids in the Greater Atlanta area: Madina Institution www.madinahfoodpantry.org 678-446-8737 461 West Crogan St Lawrenceville, GA 30046 ICNA Atlanta www.icnaatlantareliief.org 770-300-0067 6200 Memorial Dr. Stone Mountain, Ga Atlanta Masjid www.atlantamasjid.com 404-378-1600 I Have Enough Food Pantry Located inside the masjid at 560 Fayetteville Rd. S.E. Atlanta, GA. 30316 1-3pm 2x a month drive thru pick up only. Supreme Burger Is supplying frozen cooked meals for Seniors 60+ Monday 8am-3pm Email if interested secretary@ atlantamasjid.com *Food banks and pantries in Gwinnett County: Exodus Outreach, Inc. Location of center - 251 Bona Rd. Buford, Georgia 30518 Telephone number - (770) 945-9064 North Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry 70 Wiley Dr. Buford, Georgia 30518 Dial (770) 271-9793 for information and hours. Several social service and assistance programs are offered for the needy in the community. Counselors can direct people to programs to help pay bills, housing costs, and more. In addition, a food pantry and clothing closet is on site for free food, supplies such as diapers, and other aid. Duluth Cooperative Ministries - Hands of Christ Location - 3395 Fox St. Duluth, GA 30096 Call - (770) 623-9563 A bag of groceries may be passed out, or staff can help very low income residents apply for SNAP food stamps or other benefits. NEED HELP PAYING BILLS Now Faith Apostolic International Ministries Grayson, GA 30017 Dial - (770) 771-3512 Cafe Community Center at Cathedral De Fe Ministries, Inc. 675 Buford Dr. Ste. 21 Lawrenceville, Georgia 30046 Main number - (770) 236-8604 Meals and food is offered to the low income, homeless, and others. Lawrenceville Cooperative Ministry, Inc. Address: 176 Church St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Dial - (770) 339-7887 Another Gwinnett County Georgia ministry, similar services offered as the other non-profit agency listed above. New Life Fellowship, Inc. - Bread of Life Food Ministries 990 Martins Chapel Rd. Lawrenceville, GA 30045 (770) 513-1007 Meals, fresh perishable items, bread, and other free food and groceries offered. Gwinnett County Service Unit branch of Salvation Army Main office - 3455 SugarLoaf Pkwy. Lawrenceville, Georgia 30044 Telephone - (770) 724-1661 The local Salvation Army offers a wide range of assistance programs for the low income, unemployed, seniors, and needy. Some of the resources can help pay electric bills, rent, and medications. However most services provide items like access to a food pantry. Signs & Wonders, Inc. Location - 120 S. Perry St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Telephone - (770) 962-0470 Vision Academy Life Center 458 Chestnut St. Lawrenceville, GA 30045 Call - (678) 206-0688 St. Vincent de Paul of Gwinnett The church based group provides services in this county too. The low income, with a focus on families with children or senior citizens, can receive free food, perishable goods, and maybe even baby formula. Call (678) 892-6163 for hours. Lilburn Cooperative Ministry Address is 5329 Five Forks Trickum Rd. Lilburn, Georgia 30047 (770) 931-8333 A pantry has free food in a crisis. Other services will be formula, clothing and a low cost thrift shop for people in poverty. City of Hope and Community Outreach Ministry, Inc. Food bank location is 182 Hunter St. Norcross, GA 30071 Dial (770) 441-2948 for hours. Cafe Community Center Food pantry address is on Buford Drive in Lawrenceville Call the non-profit at (770) 236-8604 Resources administered include a free food pantry with non-perishable and perishable items such as fruits or vegetables. Norcross Cooperative Ministry Center address is - 2275 Mitchell Rd. Norcross, Georgia 30071 Dial - (770) 263-8268 A number of services are available. A food pantry will have bags of groceries in a crisis. Or contact the center for information on government aid such as SNAP food stamps. Place of Enlightenment, Inc. 2720 Centerville Hwy. Snellville, Georgia 30078 Phone number - (770) 982-8221. Dial the Main Client Number for hours and when food is distributed. Berean Christian Church Gwinnett 1465 Highpoint Rd. Snellville, GA 30078 678-240-2213 Free food boxes once a week drive thru on Friday starting at 1pm. Purpose World Church 1905 Highpoint Rd, Snellville, GA 30078 Food boxes every Wednesday 4:30-6:30 They also offer vegan food boxes and name brand natural personal hygiene products too. Your Local Farmers Market just Google your cities market to get great deals and double your purchases if using EBT/SNAP BENEFITS *ALL ORDERS ARE BEING MADE ONLINE* AMAZON You can also purchase items on Amazon using EBT/SNAP. https://www.amazon.com/snap-ebt/b?ie=UTF8&node=19097785011 ***also check out this YouTube channel that helps you figure out more ways to use your EBT/SNAP benefits www.lowincomerelief.com *Several other resources and food assistance programs operate in the Gwinnett County region. Examples of them include school meals and summer snacks for children, Meals on Wheels, and more. To get more information on local pantries or resources, dial (404) 892-9822. Kiesha and Ta-Seti JabriKiesha is a wife and mother of 7. She has been apart of the Atlanta Muslim Community for over 20yrs. And helped co- chair the Deen Media Center. Ta-Seti is a rising 10th grader, who is aspiring in the field of journalism. She has consecutively won the Gwinnett County libraries Reading program since 2016. Seti has also been a Girl Scout for 5 yrs at Al-Falah Academy.  The journey of Tariq, the Muslim beekeeper began approximately three years ago. Tariq has always been a “nature boy” for as long as he could remember. As a young boy, he was the kid that stayed outdoors. His preference would be to ride bikes or play basketball than to play video games. But when friends were not around, he passed time collecting and building vivariums (enclosures, containers, or structures adapted or prepared for keeping animals under seminatural conditions for observation). Tariq first started off building terrariums for collecting and raising toads, lizards, and snakes that he would catch around the house. He then moved to aquariums where he raised various fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and turtles. It should come to no surprise that by his senior year of high school he was well positioned to go to college and major in zoology. However, due to his father cautioning him that a zoologist would not have a financially rewarding life and the school of his choice (Morehouse) didn’t have a zoology major, he chose to major in biology instead. Although he was on a pre-med track, he opted not to pursue medical school after college. Rather his secondary passion for social activism lead him to education. Tariq never strayed far from his nature loving side; in his classrooms he raised praying mantises. Shortly after starting a career as a high school teacher, he was back in the seat of the student obtaining a master’s degree in Science Education. After about 10 years as a teacher, he transitioned into Educational Leadership. Tariq currently acts as director, educator, and wellness therapist at Makkah International Institute. After founding Makkah International Institute and beginning to homestead he has now been afforded the opportunity to rekindle his childhood passion of exploring the natural world. Among other endeavors, Makkah International Institute takes regular expeditions to provide youth with real world, culturally relevant learning experiences. Among these expeditions, we have gone snorkeling, taken college tours, visited nature centers, and various farms including that of a Muslim beekeeper. It was at this trip to visit a Muslim beekeeper in 2014 that he was first introduced to beekeeping. The beekeeper saw the enthusiasm in the faces of the summer camp youth that he decided to invest in the organization by giving the organization a beginner’s beekeeping book. Tariq flipped through it, and three years later, as his homestead was steadily growing, he was ready to buy my first batch of honeybees which he purchased from another Muslim Beekeeper. The honeybees were one of the last animals to join his homestead: after the chickens, quail, and goats. After his first year of beekeeping he attended the Young Harris Beekeeping Institute and became a certified beekeeper. He is currently working on his third beehive, and plans to continue to advance in the art of beekeeping until he becomes a master beekeeper. Tariq aspires to add to the scientific research of bee related matters as well as experience being a honey judge. In addition to the personal fulfillment that beekeeping has given Tariq, children within the community have also benefitted tremendously from him being a beekeeper. Since honeybees are major pollinators, the children have gained a better interest in and understanding of agriculture and food production. Beyond honey, the children have also learned that humans collect many other useful products from bees such as wax, royal jelly, and pollen. We anticipate that we will soon have children expressing interest in going into the natural health field due to learning of the many health benefits of pollen and royal jelly. We already have children that want to make candles and cosmetic products from the wax! The youth have already gained experience in harvesting honey, this year Makkah International Institute is looking forward to producing candles and cosmetics as well! Unlike the keeping of other animals and critters, Tariq finds that beekeeping is highly connected to his religious fulfillment. The bee is mentioned in the Quran and the Prophet said that honey, black seed, and hijama are cures for all diseases and the best of all medicines. As an Islamic wellness therapist not only does Tariq perform hijama, but he also gives wellness advice on a regular basis. So quite naturally, he relays the many narrations of Prophet Muhammad that relate to wellness. If someone is sick, all too often Tariq will recommend that they take some honey. In fact, he even provides it after his hijama appointments. Which is local, fresh from the farm, and above the organic standard! After it is all said and done the number one question people ask is “how many times have you been stung”? Contrary to what most people believe, honeybees are relatively easy to manage. In his three years of beekeeping, he has only been stung about five times. Beekeeping maintenance mainly consists of opening the hive about twice a month to check the health and development of the colony. In my three years I have spent about $700 in beekeeping supplies and training. Which is about the same as a good pedigree German Shephard (without the training!). But unlike a pet dog, the honeybees find their own food. They will travel about a mile away to find the flowers they love. Makkah International Institute combines three essentials to community prosperity: service, education, and wellness. Central to our mission is the honeybee. With aw inspiring social structure and unmatched work ethic the honeybee is so central to our organization that it was chosen as our mascot. The Makkah Institute Killer Bees are steadily growing in popularity at many local basketball tournaments donning their Stealers (and honeybee) black and gold colors. Beyond summer camps and school curricula, Makkah International Institute uses beekeeping in a holistic manner to uplift our community. If anyone has any questions or need advice Tariq is always willing to lend a helping hand to the community. Till the next time, Happy Beekeeping! Tariq Abdul-Malik B.S, MAT, Ed.S, CHP Tariq Abdul-Malik is the founder and director of Makkah International Institute LLC, Makkah Institute Inc., and Makkah Farms. He is a passionate father of 9, husband, son, brother, educator, hijama practicitioner, and beekeeper. He is a staunch advocate for holistic wellness and education that balances mind, body, and spirit.  Based on what we know at this time, COVID-19 affects pregnant women no differently than non pregnant women. However, pregnant women in general are at a greater risk of getting sick from respiratory viruses than non pregnant women. Some babies have tested positive shortly after birth, but it is unknown whether the babies got the virus before, during, or after birth. There are few reports of newborns with severe illness; however, much is still unknown about the risk of COVID- 19 to newborns. We do not know if COVID-19 can be spread thru breast milk, but limited data available states that it is highly unlikely. So breastfeeding continues to be the best source of nutrition for all infants. On the day you deliver, if you are positive for COVID-19 or exhibiting symptoms you will be placed on isolation and more than likely separated from your baby at birth. Some hospitals will allow the infant to stay in your room but a 6 feet separation between mom and baby must be maintained. This is for the good of the child. Most hospitals will allow only one support person in the delivery room, and they will not allow that person to swap out with another. If you’re pregnant you should take the following precautions:
Lisa Connor APRN, MS, CNM, LCCELisa Connor earned her Masters of Science in Midwifery from SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY in 2000 launching a career in home and hospital births as a full time CNM. Lisa offers a calm reassuring presence that is a blessing to birthing families while her expertise provides a safe and holistic approach to pregnancy and women’s health. |
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