Book Review: Reflections of 73 Years by zareesoul

As the breeze of the book Reflections of 73 Years blew a subtle mist into my soul, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the moments I spent beside my beloved late grandmother, listening as she shared stories and introspections from her life. It rekindled within me a longing for that missed blessing — the unique love between a granddaughter and her cherished grandmother, seated on her special chair, imparting life lessons and heartfelt teachings. The essence of a nurturing grandmother is captured from the roots, branches, and fruits revealed in every excerpt of this book.

Uncovering pearls of wisdom

faeeza nakhuda

This journey began after the author, Zareesoul, contributed some pieces to Barfi Books. She was then approached by Khadija, her publisher, who invited her to consider compiling a full book. Though hesitant at first, she eventually decided to gift some of her deepest reflections to her children.

Her focus in writing centred on life, learning, gratitude, experience, and sharing, always keeping in mind that “Each one in his and her ordinary uniqueness, is extraordinary.” Her greatest inspiration was the unwavering support and encouragement from ‘Angel K’ (Khadija) of Wilman Fikker Publishing, who became a steadfast mentor and pillar throughout her writing journey.

As though she had dipped her pen into the inkpot of memory, her thoughts began to flow freely onto the pages, weaving together cherished recollections and pivotal life moments. This book became a heartfelt way for Zareesoul to preserve precious memories while they were still fresh and vivid.

Zareesoul explains that she didn’t deliberately choose the stories; rather, she placed her trust in Allah for guidance, and the words simply flowed. “Retrospectively, there are so many other little and large significant reflections that have crossed my mind, which have not found a place in the book,” she shared when asked how she selected which memories to include.

“How does one choose which story to share, when life is so rich with human elements, each of us living to make a life? This book is a melting pot of all spices — tangy, saucy, sweet, bitter, pungent, delicious, and aromatic. Each offers its own sensational experience. My work is rooted in confidentiality and sensitivity.” Zareesoul believes Allah guided her toward the stories that would serve the purpose best. The publication is a kaleidoscope of vivid and varied narratives.

“We see life through a kaleidoscope of realities — the soaring joy of successes, the quiet pain of heartbreaks, and the resilience found in recovery.”

zareesoul

When invited to consider a pen name, Zareesoul found inspiration in her late mother, who wrote Urdu poetry under the name Aashiq. Following in her footsteps, she chose Zareesoul — a name that came to her intuitively. It also held personal significance, as both her late father and husband affectionately called her Zari, a name later adopted by others as well.

Rather than presenting them as words of wisdom, Author Zareesoul regards her writings as personal reflections. Through this book, she hopes readers will embrace their inner strengths and find balance and healing as they navigate life’s many challenges.

“The excerpt on Iddah, I’tikaaf, and Isolation is especially close to my heart,” she mentioned. “I resonate with it in a bond of sacred solitude. That time of my life taught me what I most needed. I find it difficult to truly express the experience in words.”

Another piece she holds dear reflects on the awe-inspiring marvel of the human body. “SubhanAllah, how incredible is the design of Allah’s creation — the majestic and intricate inner workings of the human body. The human intellect is a divine gift from Allah, enabling us to create tools that mimic these natural processes.”

Knowing her words may reach readers who may never know her face brings a strange yet comforting sense of mystery. She feels enveloped in a cloak of authenticity, allowing readers to meet her through her soul rather than her appearance. “Dear reader, see me through my soul as I speak to your open-hearted soul,” she affirmed.

Religion and faith have played a vital role in shaping Zareesoul’s life journey. She expresses deep gratitude for being a Muslim woman. Alhamdulillah. Growing up in a home conscious of Allah, she was encouraged to serve others by emulating the noble character of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) — a guiding light throughout her life.

“I look forward to seeing how this book will reach people. As a counsellor who has encountered countless human struggles, and having walked my own path with its stumbles, puddles, and applauses — it would bring me great joy to know that some of these reflections resonate, inspire, and offer ease and motivation to others. Insha’Allah.”

Like a precious pearl nestled in an oyster, each chapter builds layers within the reader’s heart, uncovering timeless morals and heartfelt values. Just as the depths of the ocean are filled with vibrant coral reefs, these chapters are filled with lessons, laughter, revelations, and emotional discoveries. Author Zareesoul captures these moments through the lens of an experienced heart — with each wave that crashes upon life’s shores, she sails gracefully, loving, living, and learning, while lovingly compiling the story of her 73-year journey in this treasured book.

“A dazzling pearl, peeping, shining with glee. This is for those days, when the waves throw me to and fro, And I learn to trust, and I learn to let go. Letting go of my aloneness and my loneliness, watching the coral, the pebbles and the reeds, the pearl in the oyster, so alive, so clear, protected, safe, without any fear.”

To learn more about this remarkable book, or for any queries, follow the Instagram page: @reflectionsof73years and contact the author via DM.