Trapped in the Love of Stepchildren
Chapter 28's

Laura sat in the living room of the boarding house, waiting for Ilham who was getting ready. They had spent this afternoon looking through the contents of the boarding school, and Ilham felt it was time to introduce Laura to her wider religion. Ilham also called Laura to participate in listening to the study she would give at the mosque pesantren cottage.

"Are you ready, Laura?" ask the Inspiration with a smile.

Laura nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, I'm ready. I'm very curious about your study. What's the topic this time?"

Ilham explained, "This time, my study will discuss about finding peace of life. We will discuss how to find peace within yourself in the midst of the hustle and bustle of a stressful life."

The two of them walked quietly in the orange rays of the afternoon sun towards the mosque of the boarding school. Laura wears a white hijab that covers her hair, while Ilham wears a black robe that makes her look charismatic.

As they entered the mosque, a quiet and solemn atmosphere greeted them. The air inside the mosque feels cool, refreshing the hot body outside. Soft pink carpets line the floors of the mosque, providing a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere. Islamic ornaments displayed on the walls beautify the room, adding to its elegance.

Ilham walked calmly towards the pulpit located in the middle of the mosque. He offered prayers in his heart so that his studies would gain the pleasure of Allah and benefit the pilgrims. Meanwhile, Laura looked for a seat among the other worshippers. He felt at peace seeing the worshippers praying, as if they were in direct communication with the Creator.

After a short prayer, Ilham began his study in a calm yet clear voice. "Bismil was bornrahmanirrahim," he said, opening the Koran prayer before him. "Allah says in the Quran Surah Al-Ra'd verse 28, 'Those who believe and their hearts are at peace with the remembrance of Allah. Remember, only by remembering God does the heart become serene.'"

The congregation listened attentively. The atmosphere was getting quieter, and their faces exuded the calmness that Ilham discussed in his study. The inspiration continued, "My question for all of us is, how do we find peace and quiet in this life? Have we tried enough to remember God in each of our steps?"

Laura sat down with a calm heart, digesting the Inspiration question. He felt the question was touching his heart and mind personally. Laura observed the worshippers around her, seeing how they were trying to ponder the questions asked. Some of the faces looked serious and focused, while others nodded their heads in response.

In a calm voice, Ilham said, "Brothers, I would like to share a few thoughts about my question.”

The pilgrims turned towards him, interested in his words. With peace of mind Ilham continued, “ Seeking tranquility and peace in this life is a long journey that never stops. Indeed, remembering God at every step is the key to achieving it, but we must also realize that life is full of trials and challenges."

"When we face difficulties, be it in the form of trials or temptations, how do we react? Do we remain steadfast in remembering God and trusting His plan, or do we feel hopeless and distant from Him? Peace and quiet can be found when we are able to keep our hearts calm and patient in the face of all the trials that He gives."

Inspiration paused for a moment, giving time for other worshippers to reflect on his words. Laura felt her heart touched by the words of the congregation. He pondered about the reactions he showed when facing difficulties in his life. Is he always able to maintain calm and remember God, or is he often carried away by the flow of emotions and despair?

Inspiration gives a question back. “Have you ever felt empty and lost your way in life? Are you looking for calm, but don't know where to start?"

The worshipers pondered for a moment after the question posed by Ilham. Among them was a young woman who looked doubtful and doubtful. He stood up slowly and took the opportunity to speak.

"In recent years, I have felt a sense of emptiness and loss of direction in my life" the young woman said in a soft voice. "I try to find peace and quiet, but sometimes it can be hard to find the first step."

The woman continued, "I feel lost and don't know where to start. However, then I realized that seeking tranquility and peace is a journey that requires patience and continuous effort."

Inspiration nodded, understanding the woman's feelings. It gives a smile and gives encouragement. "Thank you for sharing, sister. You are not alone in that feeling. Many of us have felt the same way. However, remember that in this life, God always provides a way out for every difficulty we face."

Inspiration continues, "Start by remembering God and deepening our understanding of our religion. By reading and understanding the holy verses of the Quran, we will find the guidance and wisdom given by Allah. In addition, striving to perform consistent and earnest worship, such as prayer, fasting, and dhikr, will help us draw closer to Him."

Inspiration looked at the whole congregation with excitement. "And last but not least, find a supportive environment on your journey in search of that serenity. Find a community or friend who can provide support for you. Discussing, sharing experiences, and motivating each other will provide strength and guidance in seeking tranquility and peace."

"Often we are too fixated on material achievements, popularity, or other achievements. But, in fact, true tranquility cannot be found outside of ourselves. That calmness is within, in our relationship with God and with ourselves," Ilham said passionately.

Ilham continued his study by explaining spiritual practices that can help achieve peace of life. He talked about the importance of worship and practicing religious values.

"We must create space within ourselves to communicate with God. A quiet space where we can let go of our burdens and worries. This is where true serenity can be found" said Ilham firmly.

His studies continued with question and answer and interactive discussions between Ilham and worshipers. Laura was pensive after hearing from Inspiration, she thought back to her relationship with Daniel.

Slowly Laura stood up from her seat even when the study was not finished, she left the mosque feeling uncertain.