Human Nature ...

Since man is made of clay, he can never be completely pure. Since clay is basically foul, how can humans escape their basic nature? Purity does not lie in rituals, nor can human nature be changed by effort. Those who love God and remain conscious only of their Beloved to attain purity.

-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"

Patience is a Virtue ...

Your pleas shall be answered, but wait patiently for the Lord to respond. Do not lose hope and begin to complain, "I beseeched the Lord, but He never responded."

-The Prophet Muhammad, as reported by Sahih al-Bukhari (Hadith)

Ramadan Mubarak to all ...

Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.

-Qur'an (2:185)

God is the Real Provider ....

Do not seek sustenance from people. God is the real Provider. If He wills a certain person to be the means of your livelihood, do not consider that person to be in control of your destiny. Have faith and be certain in the knowledge that your daily bread does not depend upon any mortal, but upon God who created all.

-Al-Hajwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"

Your Conduct ...

"The most upright among you are those who carry themselves with the finest conduct."

-The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), as reported by Abd'Allah bin Amr

Women in Islam ...

If anyone asks why Rabi'a is ranked equal with men, we reply that Muhammad, the chief of prophets, said, "God does not judge you by your outward forms. It is not outward form that matters, but inner intention." Moreover, since we derive much of our religion from Muhammad's wife Aisha, then it is right to take spiritual inspiration from a woman. When a woman is on the path of God, it is not appropriate to define her by her womanhood.

-Attar, "Rabi'a"

From "366 Readings From Islam," translated by Robert Van der Weyer

Two kinds of people ...

Allah exalted two kinds of people above others: those who spend in the cause of the Truth, and the judicious who impart their wisdom to others.

-The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), as reported by Nayeem bin Mas'ud