In the Name of God, the Compassionate and Infinitely Merciful

Today marks the official first day of the Hajj. We had come back to Mecca from Medina (more about that later) and did another minor Hajj or umrah upon re-entering the city. Then, we headed to the tent city of Mina, where the pilgrims stay during the Hajj. It was a little strange, having to sleep in a large tent with at least 25-50 other people. But, on the Hajj, you learn to get accustomed to situation with which you are not familiar. So, I picked a small space on the carpeted floor, took my pillow, and slept.

There was major anticipation in my heart over what was to happen next.

To be continued…