New! MCA YOUTH REFLECTIONS CORNER
written by Soha Shaikh
In a fast-paced world where youth—particularly within immigrant households—face immense pressure to conform to familial and societal expectations, personal growth is frequently sidelined. “The SoulPrint” is a 6-week interactive newsletter series designed to redefine boundaries for the local youth community. By introducing the concept of being “selectively selfish,” this initiative empowers young individuals to unapologetically prioritize their physical, academic, spiritual, and social well-being so they can actively architect their own futures.
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Week Two
The Swim Story
From Passion to Project
The Spiritual Benefit & Sadaqah Jariyah Focus: This option highlights the spiritual rewards of teaching others and the concept of continuous charity.
When I launched a youth swim camp, my goal wasn’t just to find a cool summer job; it was to take the Sunnah of physical fitness a step further. Going from a competitive swimmer to a lifeguard and business owner forced me to grow in discipline and confidence. It made me realize that the skills we cultivate for fun can become powerful tools to uplift the people around us. Teaching a child to swim is a life-saving skill, but in Islam, it’s also a form of worship.
The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us that “beneficial knowledge” is a Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity) that brings rewards long after we are gone. Every time a kid from our community splashes into the water with confidence, it fulfills the idea of building a stronger, healthier Ummah.
The next time you pick up a controller, a basketball, or a sketchbook, ask yourself: Is this just a distraction, or is this the blueprint for my future? Look at your talents and find a way to use them to serve others. Your hobbies don’t just have to be things to pass time; they can also help elevate your community.
Question: What’s a passion of yours that you could turn into a community project?
Week One
Introduction to the Series
The Art of Being “Selectively Selfish”
Hey youth! When was the last time you made a decision entirely for your own growth without feeling guilty? In our community, we are wired to serve everyone else first, but neglecting our own potential helps no one.
Welcome to The SoulPrint, a 6-week manual for protecting your time so you can excel academically, spiritually, and mentally. This isn’t about being greedy; it’s about taking charge of the unique future Allah gave you. To start this change, you have to learn to say “no” to distractions that drain your energy.
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Part of the perfection of one’s Islam is his leaving that which does not concern him.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi 2317)
Choosing to pass on distractions isn’t just a spiritual hack; it’s a mental one, too. In fact, brain research shows that every time you say “no” to a distraction, you protect your mind from the heavy mental fatigue of switching between tasks. By locking in your focus, you actually prime your brain to deeply process and remember new information.
Protect your focus, unlock your potential, and claim your growth. Click the button below to join the community board and share your thoughts.
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