#Steps for Salah

[digitalislamicguide]

Step-by-Step Guide to Salah: Performing Islamic Prayer Correctly

Salah, also known as Islamic prayer, is a fundamental pillar of Islam. It’s a direct connection between a Muslim and Allah (God). This guide will explain each step of performing Salah, along with its significance. Preparing for Prayer: Ensuring Purity and Focus Cleanliness (Wudu or Ghusl): Before prayer, Muslims achieve a state of ritual purity by performing either wudu (ablution) or ghusl…

[meowsalah]

[nuktaguidance]

Steps to Perform Umrah

How to Perform Umrah Steps to Perform Umrah Umrah guidance in Videos Umrah consists of four essential practices: Steps to Perform Umrah: Enter Ihram, Tawaf around Kaaba, Sa’i between Safa and Marwa, Trim hair, Exit Ihram. Ihram: Before reaching the Miqat, you change into the Ihram garments, perform two rak’ahs of salah, and make your niyyah (intention). As you approach the Miqat, you start…

[fairuzfan]

Id: A large group of kneeling people make Sujood, the kneeling posture in Salah or Prayer in Islam, on the ruins of a mosque. There are only walls to the mosque, no doors, and no roof. Some people sit at the steps leading to the entryway.

Something to note is that during Sujood, you are supposed to put your forehead and hands against the floor. But some people here are unable to fully put their forehead down, probably because of the rubble on the floor.

[samah-h]

We have reached our first goal thanks to your support!❤️

Thanks to your generosity and solidarity, we have successfully reached our first goal of raising €1,400 to secure passports. This is a significant step for our family, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed and supported us in this crucial phase. Words cannot express how much your support means to us during these difficult times. 🙏❤️

However, our journey is far from over. We now move to our second goal, which focuses on securing travel coordination and providing for the basic needs of our 6-month-old baby. Born amidst the bombing and destruction, our baby is currently suffering from a lack of infant formula, diapers, and basic healthcare. Living in tents with scarce resources and the spread of diseases, the situation is dire.

With the high cost of living in Gaza, securing these basic needs, in addition to coordinating travel, has become extremely challenging. The expenses associated with transportation and evacuation are overwhelming, and we need your continued support to help ensure our baby can escape these devastating conditions.

Our second goal is to raise €5,000 to cover :

Travel coordination and securing safe evacuation

Infant formula and diapers

Essential healthcare for our baby

Warm clothes and supplies to protect him from the cold

Covering the high cost of living and basic survival needs

Living in tents is exhausting and filled with daily challenges; we have no clean water, electricity, or proper medical care. Every day we struggle to survive amidst constant bombings and the dangers surrounding us. Your support gives us hope that we can provide a better life for our child.

VETTED BY @bilal-salah0

1605€ / 6400€

Please, share our campaign or donate whatever you can; every contribution makes a huge difference.

[monamoon8]

These are Omar(2) and Salah(5), Bilal's nephews. 8 months ago, they were enjoying the warmth of their home and being pampered by their parents and everyone in the family. The pictures below are from Omar's first birthday. Bilal told me how he was the one who prepared everything for the surprise party. He was,then, so excited to gather the whole family and give Omar a memorable first birthday and bring joy to everybody.

Now, Omar and Salah are going through hardships no child should be experiencing. They are surrounded by rubble and unsanitary conditions wherever they go; not to mention the random bombings that threaten their lives every moment of every day. Omar took his first steps while being displaced in a tent in Rafah. Imagine your baby learning to walk in a refugee camp under the constant buzzing of drones! The children and the whole family had to endure the cold winter and being drenched by rain in their flimsy tent, and now they have to go through the unbearable heat in the same inhumane circumstances. As if all this suffering wasn't enough, the occupation is currently asking everyone in Rafah to evacuate again, even the hospitals!

The survival of Omar, Salah, and the whole family in now more than ever at stake. Bilal has been in Germany for a year or so now. The thought that he might never get to see his beloved nephews again haunts him every day. He humbly asks for your support to help him keep his loved ones safe until he has the chance to reunite with them, hopefully as soon as possible. Please donate any amount you can spare and reblog this post. Every contribution can make a difference and restore the family's hope!

[farisjax]

﷽

I don't know who needs to hear this but get up and try again. If you keep falling into the same sins, repent once more. If you've been lazy with salah, start praying from now. If you've given up on making du'a, start again. It doesn't matter how many steps you've taken away from Allah, it only takes 1 step to turn back to Him. We all slip at times, but I need you to pick yourself back up. Allah sees how hard you try, your efforts are never wasted.

[corydora-writes]

My Everything

Summary: You're Bruce Wayne's wife and a plus-size model. Tonight, you are attending a Wayne Charity Gala that you tenaciously put together! Bruce can't seem to take his eyes off you, and it's apparent that other affluent guests are equally captivated by you.

Pairing: Bruce Wayne x Plus Size Female Reader.

Warnings: Minors DNI! Fluff, and smut towards the end.

Word Count: 3,627

A/N: This is my first attempt at writing smut, and it's probably going to be my last. I much prefer writing fluff. Nonetheless, enjoy! x

Life as a plus-size model and being Bruce Wayne's wife often presented unique challenges. This year, you dedicated yourself to your modeling commitments for the Winter Season while actively participating in the meticulous planning and arrangements for the prestigious end-of-the-year Wayne Charity Gala. Balancing these roles was undeniably taxing, but the anticipation of quality time with your husband, free from his responsibilities as Batman, made it all worthwhile. 

After flawlessly applying your makeup, your stylist carefully guided you in putting on the stunning dress while you were blindfolded. You eagerly anticipated the first glimpse of the dress, specifically chosen and tailored just for you.

"Okay, love," Salah exclaimed excitedly, "you can open your eyes now." 

You gazed at your reflection in the mirror, and your mouth fell open in astonishment. The stunning silk dress draped in a luxurious emerald green hue was sleeveless, allowing the delicate stretch marks on your shoulders to peek through, a part of your beauty that you cherished and never concealed with makeup. The dress elegantly cinched at your waist, enhancing your figure and accentuating your bosom. With a playful and confident air, you kicked your leg forward through the intricate slit of the dress. 

"Salah, you have outdone yourself once again," you said with genuine admiration. "Your talent is truly unparalleled." 

You turned around to inspect the dress from behind.

"I don't recall seeing this exquisite piece on the runway this season. Am I the lucky one to be adorned in your remarkable prototype?"

"That's because it wasn't on the runway," Salah added. "And not a prototype." 

You turned to look at him with an eyebrow raised in confusion. 

"Who designed it, then?" You inquired. 

"Your husband did." 

"What?"

"A few months ago, he requested a custom-designed dress exclusively for you. I brought his vision to life."

A warm and tender sensation filled your heart.

"And," Salah began, " that's not the only thing he chose." His tone was mischievous.

"What do you mean?" you asked. 

"He chose that sexy lace set you're wearing underneath." he grinned. "He's so going to unwrap you after the gala."

You coughed softly and forced a smile, hoping to conceal the hint of a blush creeping up your cheeks.

—

Bruce had just finished getting ready at his office after several lengthy meetings at Wayne Enterprises and made his way to the manor to pick you up. He couldn't help but think about the elegant dress he had carefully selected for you. Knowing it was from your favorite designer and good friend made him hope you would love it as much as he did.

He dispatched final instructions to Dick, Jason, and Damian. They had been tasked with patrolling the city until his return from the charity event.

Just take the entire night off, old man, Dick replied. 

As he was getting ready to reply, he heard the door upstairs close. He instinctively slid his phone into his pocket and made his way to the base of the staircase, where the ornate wooden railing wound up to the upper floor.

Bruce found himself in rapt fascination as he watched you come down. Your gown was a work of art, embracing every curve of your figure with an effortless grace that demanded attention. A surge of longing coursed through him as he took in the sight of you.

Extending his hand, he met you at the final step, his touch both supportive and filled with quiet intensity as he assisted you.

Bruce's breath caught in his throat as he beheld you. 

"Wow, you are breathtaking," he stammered, his voice betraying his unsteady awe at the sight of you.

You smiled mysteriously as you gracefully walked away from him, and then, with a slow and deliberate twirl, you revealed every inch of yourself, captivating his attention.

"I hope this dress meets your approval, Mr. Wayne." Your voice was sultry and seductive, causing a surge of arousal in Bruce. 

"It more than meets my approval. You look positively stunning," he said earnestly, unable to take his eyes off you. 

He gently drew you close, pulling you towards him with a soft yet firm touch. His hands found their place on your waist as you responded by tenderly wrapping your arms around his shoulders, feeling the reassuring strength in his embrace.

As he leaned in closer, his warm and tender lips made contact with your bare, delicately exposed shoulder, leaving a trail of gentle, affectionate kisses.

He whispered in your ear, "What you're wearing underneath is for my eyes only," his breath ghosting across your skin, "a treasure that belongs solely to me."

Your heart fluttered in your chest as you experienced a momentary pause. Bruce's possessive nature emanated from a profound depth of affection, conveying a wholesome desire to protect and adore you.

He stepped back, gazing into your eyes with a tender intensity. 

"But I'm not entirely selfish," he murmured, his voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability. "I want the entire world to be captivated by the extraordinary beauty you possess," he confessed, his words lingering in the air. "But always remember, you belong to me, now and for all eternity." With a gentle yet firm grip on your waist, he drew you closer, his touch conveying both possession and adoration. Leaning in, he pressed his lips against yours. It was a kiss filled with passion and longing that conveyed all the emotions that Bruce had felt since he first laid eyes on you at the Art Gallery. And as you both pulled away, your eyes sparkled with adoration, your love for him evident in every gesture.

But your love for each other was not without its challenges. Your marriage was unconventional, but it didn't matter to either of you. Bruce had to balance his responsibilities as Batman and as your husband constantly. He tried to keep you at arm's length, afraid of putting you in danger, but you refused to back down. You were determined to stand by his side, no matter what, even if it meant sharing him with life as the Caped Crusader. 

But you couldn't deny that the dual life made things complicated. Whenever Gotham was threatened and needed Batman's attention, he had to leave abruptly, leaving you worried and alone. You also spent countless nights alone, only seeing him in the mornings. But you never complained. You understood the importance of Bruce's mission and always remained supportive.

Each time Bruce laid eyes on you, the world seemed to fade away, leaving behind a singular focus on you. In those rare, cherished moments, he had the opportunity to give you his undivided attention, and it was as if he was experiencing the exhilaration of falling in love with you all over again.

"Something on your mind?" You asked him because you noticed that he was lost in thought. 

Bruce shook away from his reveries. 

"You," Bruce replied. "And how badly I want to explore every inch of your body and show you how much you mean to me," he said in a low and husky voice. 

You blushed and smiled shyly at him. 

"I'll be patient, Mrs. Wayne." He looked at you and smirked as if reveling in your obvious flushed face. 

Bruce couldn't help but wrap his arm around your waist, pulling you closer as you both made your way to the car. 

—

When you arrived, a relentless barrage of camera flashes greeted you. Bruce appeared at the door, extending a supportive hand to help you up and guiding you towards him. His touch was gentle yet protective as his hand settled on your waist. He made it his mission to shield you from any potential dangers, including the relentless intrusion of the paparazzi.

"Can we get photos of you both individually?" One of the photographers yelled. 

Bruce got out of the way to let your photo get taken. 

You struck a pose, your hand on your hip and your head held high, exuding elegance and grace. The photographer snapped away, capturing every angle. Your smile was radiant, and it was evident that you were genuinely enjoying yourself. As you gazed out into the crowd, you could see the positive reactions from those around you. People were clapping and cheering, admiring your beauty and confidence.

The photographer asked for a few more poses, and you happily obliged. 

You shifted your gaze to Bruce and found him looking at you with an affectionate expression, a loving gleam in his eyes, and a gentle smile gracing his face. He had a tad look of mischief, likely undressing you in his mind. You returned the smile. 

"Now you, Bruce!" One photographer yelled, interrupting the moment you were both sharing.

"Not tonight," Bruce answered and walked away with you. 

Bruce kissed your forehead and wished you luck before leaving you to do your own thing while he mingled with the partners of Wayne Enterprises. 

The night progressed with a series of speeches by prominent artists. When it was time for you to speak, your words echoed through the hushed hall, reminding everyone present why they were there: to give foster children a chance at a better life. The funds would go to build an independent living facility for children, particularly teenagers who could not find placements. You shared your experience as a former foster child who aged out of the system, and you vowed to change that reality for other foster kids.

The crowd responded with a chorus of applause. Bruce cheered you on and felt immense pride for all the hard work you had done. 

The sophisticated guests wandered through the carefully curated art gallery, sipping fine champagne and other exquisite, high-priced liquors. As you contemplated a potential art addition to your office, your attention was drawn to a group of impeccably dressed women whispering and giggling, their envious eyes fixed on you. Feeling a pang of annoyance, you rolled your eyes and massaged your temples as their conversation reached your ears. It seemed like these events always managed to attract the same types of people: the typical wealthy individuals who generously spent money for a good cause to make themselves feel good, the ones who came with the mission to find any gossip, and those who murmured opinions on how you were an unlikely match for Bruce.

"Excuse me," you said in a warm tone and gave them a friendly smile, trying not to disrupt the moment. I couldn't help but notice that all of you have been staring at me." You uttered these words cautiously, in case someone discreetly captured the moment with their camera.

The women looked at each other, caught off guard by your courage to confront them.

"Oh, we couldn't help but notice your gorgeous dress. May I ask where you found it?" one of the women inquired, attempting to divert from their earlier discussion.

You let out a light chuckle, a knowing smile spreading across your face as you realize they are being untruthful. "Thank you for your kind words," you respond, unable to resist mentioning, "but I overheard your conversation."

The women's eyes darted anxiously, repeatedly adjusting their position to avoid meeting your gaze and showing unease.

"I couldn't help but overhear you discussing my husband, Bruce Wayne, and speculating about why he chose to be with someone like me," you said in a composed and collected tone, your voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside you.

The women were visibly shocked by your unexpected confrontation. Their eyes widened, and their expressions turned to disbelief. They stood there, motionless, struggling to find the right words.

"I'm flattered…" you began.

The women gazed at each other, their brows furrowed in confusion as they exchanged perplexed looks, trying to make sense of the situation.

"You purchased a $15,000 ticket to this charity event, but instead of supporting the cause, you made my appearance the topic of conversation," you said calmly.

One of the women cleared her throat. As they sipped their drinks, a flush of crimson spread across their faces, betraying their unease.

Bruce's strong, comforting arm encircled your waist, and as he leaned down, you felt the warmth of his lips as he placed a tender and affectionate kiss on your cheek.

"Ladies," he remarked with a warm smile. "You all look lovely."

"Thank you", the women said shyly. 

"What were you all talking about, if I may?" Bruce asked.

"Love," you began. "The ladies were curious to know why you married me." 

Bruce's eyes met yours with a deep, enamored gaze.

"Yes, she is undeniably beautiful, and she's currently the most sought-after model," he said, pausing to gather his thoughts. "But my wife, she's not just outwardly stunning. Her compassionate nature, selflessness, and genuine care for others demonstrate that she possesses a heart that is truly pure and kind. She's an extraordinary mother to our children. I feel truly understood and seen for who I am in her presence."

You gazed at Bruce for a long moment, your expression tender. 

"I'm the luckiest man in the world." He leaned to press his lips against yours. 

"Mr. Wayne," someone from afar called him. 

"Excuse me, ladies." He turned to look at them. "Please enjoy the rest of your night."

Once Bruce reached a far distance, they turned to look at you. 

One of the women cleared her throat nervously before speaking with a shaky voice to apologize to you.

"Me too." The second woman said.

"So am I," the other one said. 

"If your apology is sincere, I will accept it as cash, credit, or check." You smiled and kept your tone neutral. 

Ordinarily, you wouldn't have directly addressed the situation. With age and experience, you worked diligently to develop self-love and gratitude for your body, so the pressures of society and critical gazes lost their significance eons ago. But you felt playful tonight, so you decided to leverage fatphobia to benefit the charity. 

—

The elegant gala was winding down, with most guests having departed. Bruce found himself at the bustling bar, conversing with a group of enthusiastic investors who had pledged generous donations to the charity.

Bruce excused himself from the gathering and found a quiet, secluded area. He reached for his phone and found a message from Dick: 

We're all fine. Goons being goons. Take the damn night, old man. Seriously.

Just as he was about to send a message, the murmur of the investors nearby caught his attention. Their conversation revealed their admiring remarks about your enchanting allure, casting a shadow of unease over Bruce's thoughts.

"How long do you give it until they split?" One said. 

"Trust fund kid turned CEO with a model?" one man quipped. "I give it two years at most."

"I can already imagine the tabloid headlines."

They laughed. 

"I call dibs."

Bruce's ears twitched. A flicker of anger crossed his face before he schooled his expression into one of haughty indifference. 

"Hey darling," you uttered sweetly and sat next to him. 

Bruce maintained his silence, offering no words in response.

"Bruce," you asked, your voice tinged with worry. "Are our sons okay? Did something happen to them?"

Bruce's unease dissipated as he gazed into your widened eyes, which had been filled with concern. He was filled with an overwhelming sense of guilt for causing you distress.

"No, the boys are fine."

He carefully observed the rhythmic rise and fall of your chest, exhaling a sigh of relief.

"Then what's wrong?" You asked again. 

"I'm..." he hesitated. "I'm jealous." 

"What of?" you asked. 

"You see those men over there at the bar?" 

You nodded. 

"Your presence tonight set their tongues wagging." 

You chuckled. Your laughter was a sweet melody to Bruce's ears. 

"I belong to you, my love." You said. "And I always will."

He gently took your hand and led you away from the crowd and into a private space, away from prying eyes and ears. 

"You're intoxicating," his eyes smoldering with desire and a hint of possessiveness. "I can't bear the thought of you belonging to anyone but me." 

You smiled, your gaze locking with his. You caressed his face, savoring the fiery moment. 

"I'm terrified of losing you," he confessed, his voice trembling with raw emotion. "I constantly feel guilt and fear that I'm holding you back from a life of normalcy, perhaps with another man."

You were fully attentive while Bruce shared his thoughts, never interrupting him. It had taken him a long time to be vulnerable with you. Your unwavering resolve since the beginning gradually chipped away at his defenses. The once stoic, reserved man of few words, shrouded in an aura of melancholy and enigma, let his facade crumble until you saw the man behind the mask. You had become a balm to his wounds. 

"Bruce," the soft hum of his name escaped your lips as you gently reached out to hold his hand. "We are anything but ordinary, and that's what I adore about us. I don't crave a conventional relationship. I want you."

Enveloping him in your embrace, your love acted as a guiding light, casting out the lingering shadows that plagued his soul.

He leaned in to place a gentle kiss on your forehead. 

"Let's go home," he said. 

_______                           

You and Bruce retreated to the privacy of the opulent Wayne Manor. As you gracefully slipped out of the designer gown, revealing your ample body, Bruce's gaze lingered on you with unabashed desire.

You made your way to him, sat on his lap, and helped remove his tie. 

"you're stunning," Bruce breathed.

His hands explored every dip and curve with a reverence that made you feel worshiped.

He marveled at the feeling of your softness against his firm touch, the contrast between you igniting a fire within him.

"As much as I love this lingerie on you, I think it would look even better on the floor," Bruce whispered in your ear. 

With a flick of his fingers, he undid the clasp of your bra, letting it fall open and reveal your breasts. He ran his hands over them, feeling the softness of your flesh, and then leaned down to take one of your nipples into his mouth. You let out a soft moan as he teased your nipple with his tongue. 

You reached down and started to undo his pants, freeing his hard, throbbing cock. You stroked it gently, feeling it twitch in your hand as he moaned with pleasure.

You kissed Bruce, his lips soft and gentle against yours. He could feel your body responding to his touch as your breath became increasingly ragged. He felt the heat between you two building, and he broke the kiss to look into your eyes.

"You're so beautiful," he reminds you again.

Then he lays you back gently, and you look up at him with desire. You help him unbutton his shirt and take it off, revealing his toned chest, and you can't help but run your hands over it, sending shivers down his spine. 

He moved down your body, his lips and tongue leaving a trail of fire in their wake. He reached to your belly, leaving trails of kisses.

'I love your body,' he murmured. 

He continued down, teasing you through the fabric of your panties. You gasped, your hips bucking as he finally slipped a finger under the fabric and into your wet heat.

He slowly fingered you, his thumb rubbing circles on your clit as you moaned and writhed beneath him. You were so wet, so ready for him. He couldn't wait any longer. He hooked his fingers under the waistband of your panties and pulled them down, throwing them aside.

He climbed back up your body, his hardness pressing against your wetness. You wrapped your legs around him, pulling him closer, urging him on. With one swift thrust, he was inside you. You cried out, your nails digging into his back as he began to fuck you with long, hard strokes.

Your bodies moved together in a rhythm, your moans and gasps of pleasure filling the room. Bruce could feel an orgasm building inside him, tightening as he slammed into you again and again.

You pushed him off of you before he climaxed and climbed on top of him, straddling his hips and grinding your pelvis against his hard cock. Bruce could feel the heat radiating from your wet pussy, and he ached to be inside you.

'I love how you feel on top of me,' he murmured, his breath hot. "I love your softness, your curves, your warmth."

You reached down and guided Bruce's cock inside your wet slit. He groaned with pleasure as you sank down onto him, taking him all the way in. You began to ride him, your hips moving in slow, deliberate circles. Your hands braced on Bruce's chest. You began to ride him harder, your hips slamming down onto his cock with force. Bruce could feel himself getting close to the edge, feeling himself tighten with pleasure.

With a final, powerful thrust, Bruce came hard inside you, his cock twitching as he filled you. You collapsed onto him, your own orgasm washing over you in waves.

"I love you,' he gasped, his breath hot against your neck. 'You are my everything."

In that intimate embrace, he held you with a fervent tenderness, a sensation he never wanted to fade from memory. His heart overflowed with a desire to immortalize this profound moment: the gentle weight of your presence in his arms, the vulnerability shining in your eyes as you yielded to the depth of his affection, and the unspoken declaration of love reflected on your radiant face.

"I love you," you whispered back, your voice choked with emotion. "I love you so much."

[taqwatawheedtales]

I don’t know who needs to hear this but, get up and try again. If you keep falling into the same sins, repent once more. If you’ve been lazy with salah, start praying from now. If you’ve given up on making du’a, start again. It doesn’t matter how many steps you’ve taken away from Allāh, it only takes 1 step to turn back to Him. We all slip at times, but I need you to pick yourself back up. Allāh sees how hard you try, your efforts are never wasted.💐✨

[dayinadream]

One incident I heard from multiple people that I met at an UNRWA school recounts the story of a woman carrying her child and walking along Salah al-Din. Her child would cry loudly as she carried him, multiple people told me, all repeating the same details and recounting the same sequence of events that would follow: a soldier, annoyed by the child’s screeching, “sniped at him” from a distance and shot him in the head as his mother carried him. The soldier then picked up his megaphone and ordered her to throw him by the side of the road and keep walking.

In utter shock, the woman wailed and cried but eventually was forced to obey the soldiers’ orders at gunpoint, who surrounded her from the side and were also perched on top of a tank. Everyone told me the same thing: that the woman was forced to set down her lifeless child and continue, screaming and crying the entire way.

**

“I was walking on crutches, and two paramedics who had fled south with us were helping me along the way,” he told Mondoweiss. “Sometimes they would carry me or allow me to lean on them as we walked.”

When they reached the Israeli military checkpoint that had been erected on Salah al-Din Street, a soldier called on him from a distance and ordered him to walk on his own and throw away his crutches before arriving at the checkpoint to be searched.

“I still wasn’t able to put my foot on the ground or to put any pressure on it,” Ayman said. “But the soldier kept ordering me to walk without it.”

“The minute I put my foot on the ground, I fell, unable to bear the pain,” he continued. “But the soldier kept insisting and told me to stand up.”

Ayman said he could not bear the humiliation the soldier was forcing on him. For a second time, he tried to get up and tried to take another step.

The plate in his leg broke. He collapsed, screaming in pain. The soldier did nothing, just ordering him to crawl past the checkpoint and go on his way. Ayman had no choice but to do as he was ordered, dragging himself until he got to the other side, where people picked him up and assisted him.

Full article here

https://mondoweiss.net/2023/11/they-shot-her-son-in-her-arms-and-forced-her-to-throw-his-body-testimonies-from-the-death-march-on-salah-al-din-street/#

[kunamaibintangitunamamu]

My WHV Timeline

I got that WHV with my name on it!

This post is going to be super long! Jadi, karena aku termasuk tipe yang suka menceritakan semua hal secara detail dan memang sudah niat juga sih, aku pengen tulis ini sebagai kenang-kenangan karena aku berhasil mendapatkan WHV!

Here’s my timeline, each moment a small but sweet step toward the dream: 12-02-2024: The day I made a quiet but powerful promise to myself—to see my name on that WHV, no matter what. 02-03-2024: Took my visa photos. Just one tiny step, but it felt like a step toward something big. 23-04-2024: Got my SKCK done at Mabes Polri. A little closer, a little more real. 22-05-2024: Took the PTE test, butterflies in my stomach, but my sights set firmly on the goal. 08-10-2024: Prepared my bank reference letter, and then—out of nowhere—the SDUWHV opening was announced! My heart raced; it was really happening. 10-10-2024: Received that precious SDUWHV letter. Holding it felt surreal, like I was holding a piece of my future. 25-10-2024: Lodged my visa application, sending off all my hopes and dreams along with it. 27-10-2024: Completed my Medical Check-Up (MCU), feeling both excitement and calm; the finish line was in sight. 12-11-2024: The day that made everything worth it—Visa granted! I felt pure joy, knowing the adventure of a lifetime was now just around the corner.

Jadi, aku sudah mengincar program WHV ini dari tahun lalu, gara-gara orang-orang di sekitarku tiba-tiba banyak yang berangkat ke Australia. Honestly, back in 2021, aku juga sempat berandai-andai, "Asyik juga ya kalau bisa ke Melbourne," waktu itu mikirnya pengen lanjut kuliah lagi, sih. Plus, one of my bucket list items is to work abroad, dan rasanya negara yang paling potensial buat goal itu adalah Australia. Banyak orang Pontianak juga yang hijrah ke sana, jadi makin kebayang, deh. Impian itu aku pendam, sambil terus cari kesempatan dan peluang, supaya bisa mewujudkan one of my ultimate dreams.

Ternyata, di tahun 2024, aku merasakan dorongan yang kuat untuk mengejar visa ini. Aku mulai mencari tahu semua persyaratannya, dan langkah pertama yang harus diambil adalah mendapatkan surat sakti SDUWHV. Nah, untuk bisa mendapatkan SDUWHV, ternyata ada beberapa persyaratan lagi yang harus dipenuhi. Waktu itu, aku masih berpatokan pada persyaratan tahun 2023, yaitu: foto, KTP, paspor, sertifikat bahasa Inggris, SKCK, ijazah, surat keterangan bank, dan surat keabsahan dokumen. Jadi, pelan-pelan aku mulai melengkapi semua dokumen yang bisa dicicil dulu sebelum pembukaan SDUWHV.

02 Maret 2024 Sore ini, aku pergi ke studio foto untuk ambil pas foto visa. Sempat bingung karena belum pernah foto visa sebelumnya, tapi untungnya studio tersebut sudah paham ketentuannya. Mereka mengarahkan dan membantu pengambilan foto serta pencetakan sesuai kebutuhan. Aku juga sekalian print ekstra untuk bikin SKCK.

28 Maret 2024 Setelah mendaftar antre online lewat aplikasi, pagi ini aku melakukan rekam sidik jari di Polda Kalbar. Aku datang pagi-pagi sekali agar bisa mendapat antrean pertama. Staff di sana dengan cekatan membantu dan sempat bertanya, "Apa tujuannya?" Aku jawab, "Untuk ke Australia, Pak." Mereka sangat mendukung dan turut mendoakan semoga prosesku lancar hingga mendapatkan visanya.

Perekaman sidik jari ini adalah salah satu syarat untuk membuat SKCK. Awalnya, aku pikir masih bisa membuat SKCK dengan tujuan WHV di Polda Kalbar, tapi ternyata sekarang ketentuannya sudah berubah dan harus diurus di Mabes Polri. Sempat bingung juga kalau harus ke Jakarta untuk mengurus SKCK. Beruntungnya, temanku bisa pergi ke Jakarta dan mewakilkan aku untuk membuat SKCK, dan pada 23 April 2024, SKCK-ku akhirnya terbit.

22 Mei 2024 Lanjut, dokumen-dokumen yang mudah sudah berhasil aku kumpulkan. Sekarang tantangan berikutnya adalah lolos tes Bahasa Inggris. Ada beberapa pilihan tes yang bisa diambil, dan dua yang paling populer adalah IELTS dan PTE. Kebetulan di Pontianak tersedia tes PTE, jadi aku memilih PTE saja. Jadwal tesnya juga lebih fleksibel. Sebenarnya, aku sudah mulai persiapan IELTS dari awal tahun, tapi H-2 bulan ini aku mulai intens belajar untuk PTE setiap malam dari YouTube dan website PTE Study, agar skorku tidak hanya lolos, tapi juga memuaskan. Sudah lama aku tidak merasakan sensasi belajar sambil menunggu-nunggu hari ujian.

Hari itu akhirnya tiba: hari tes PTE-ku. Lokasi tes di gedung PTE Academic, Universitas Tanjungpura, persis di depan fakultas kampusku dulu—nostalgia, hehe. Jadwal tesku jam 11. Pagi itu aku terbangun dengan deg-degan, rasanya seperti menghadapi ujian akhir semester lagi. Ada skor minimal yang harus aku capai (minimal 30), dan kalau tidak lolos, berarti harus mengulang tes—yang berarti keluar biaya lagi.

Jam 8.30, aku pergi ke kafe sendirian untuk sarapan sambil mengulas tips dan trik dari setiap bagian tes. Setelah itu, aku pasrahkan semuanya pada usahaku sejauh ini. Jam 10.00 aku berangkat ke gedung ujian. Setibanya di sana, aku melakukan registrasi. Ujiannya terasa cukup formal, mungkin karena ini tes internasional. Setiap sesi hanya bisa diikuti oleh 6 orang, jadi jadwalnya memang terbatas. Aku duduk di komputer nomor 1, dan semua tes dilakukan secara komputerisasi. Jawaban kita direkam dan disimpan dalam sistem. Menurutku, bagian yang paling sulit adalah writing, haha, karena temanya tidak diketahui sebelumnya dan mendadak aku merasa blank harus menyusun kata-kata seperti apa.

Dua jam berlalu, dan tes akhirnya selesai. Kata petugasnya, hasilnya bisa keluar dalam waktu 2 jam dan akan dikirim melalui email. Setidaknya, salah satu tahapan sudah kulewati, dan aku hanya bisa berdoa semoga hasilnya sesuai harapan! Seusai ujian, aku pergi makan ramen bersama teman yang juga ikut tes. Kami sempat berandai-andai seolah-olah sudah siap berangkat ke Australia dan visa sudah di tangan—padahal waktu itu, jadwal pembukaan SDUWHV saja belum pasti.

Sore itu aku lalui dengan harap-harap cemas menunggu skor. Dan… akhirnya, malamnya, hasilnya keluar! Skorku jeng jeng jeng… 81/90! Not bad! Aku langsung merasa lega. Satu langkah lebih dekat. Salah satu dokumen penting sudah ada di tangan, dan malam itu aku bisa tidur dengan tenang.

01 Juli 2024 Jujur, di tanggal ini aku sempat deg-degan banget. Soalnya, aku pernah lihat di IG Kedubes Australia yang memposting bahwa pendaftaran program WHV tahun 2023 sudah ditutup, dan pendaftaran WHV untuk tahun 2024 akan dibuka pada 1 Juli 2024. Kupikir itu adalah hari “war” untuk SDUWHV. Ternyata, itu adalah tanggal pembukaan kembali untuk lodge visa WHV. Waktu itu aku masih belum paham, haha, jadi aku sudah ngebut mempersiapkan segalanya dari awal. Pas tanggal 1 Juli tiba, ternyata tidak ada info apa pun dari Ditjen Imigrasi.

Sebulan… dua bulan berlalu…

Tidak ada kabar dari MIDO soal pembukaan SDUWHV. Hingga akhirnya, tanggal 02 September 2024, muncul pengumuman dari MIDO yang membawa kabar gembira: pembukaan kuota SDUWHV akan segera dilaksanakan! Deg-degan makin terasa! Lalu, pada 27 September 2024, MIDO mengumumkan bahwa untuk tahun 2024 hanya akan ada satu batch SDUWHV. That means, hanya ada satu kesempatan untuk “war”—jika tidak berhasil, berarti harus coba lagi tahun depan.

Overthinking dan kalut semakin terasa. Ada ketakutan terselubung, “What if aku nggak dapat?” Pasti akan sangat kecewa, karena ini adalah impian yang sudah lama aku nantikan—satu kesempatan berharga untuk explore dunia luar, bekerja di luar negeri, dan melalang buana, melihat dunia dari perspektif yang berbeda.

08 Oktober 2024 Siang itu, aku sedang santai-santai mengurus surat keterangan bank di BCA. Ini kali ketiga aku datang ke CS untuk minta surat tersebut, sampai-sampai CS-nya masih ingat dan bilang, “Lho, Cece lagi, bikin surat referensi bank lagi ya, Ce? Kapan buka kuotanya? Btw, tadi sebelum Cece juga ada yang minta surat keterangan bank, lho.” Aku cuma bisa tertawa kecil, ini sudah ketiga kalinya aku minta surat yang sama, haha.

Di saat yang hampir bersamaan, aku melihat postingan di IG Ditjen Imigrasi yang menyatakan bahwa tanggal pembukaan kuota SDUWHV adalah 10 Oktober 2024—which is lusa ini! Hatiku langsung berdetak tidak karuan! Malam itu, aku bahkan tidak bisa tidur dengan tenang, memikirkan semua persiapan untuk “war” yang harus semaksimal mungkin. Aku cek berulang-ulang file dokumen yang perlu diunggah, membaca kembali semua ketentuan agar tidak ada informasi sekecil apa pun yang terlewat.

Untungnya, aku sudah membuat akun di website-nya sebelumnya, jadi tidak perlu repot di tahap ini. Banyak pengaju lain yang mengalami error karena terlalu banyak orang yang membuat akun di waktu bersamaan.

10 Oktober 2024 Hari war dimulai! Pagi ini aku bangun lebih awal dari biasanya. Jujur, semalaman aku hampir tidak bisa tidur. Yang ada di pikiranku hanya satu: aku ingin bisa melewati hari ini dengan tenang dan lega. Banyak cerita dari tahun lalu tentang war SDUWHV yang katanya menegangkan dan “hidup-mati”—hanya ada satu kesempatan, dan kalau tidak berhasil, harus menunggu batch berikutnya yang entah kapan diadakan lagi. Jadi, hari ini, no matter what, aku harus mendapatkan surat sakti itu.

Jam 9 teng war dimulai. Laptop sudah siap, Wi-Fi aman, website sudah dibuka, dan akun sudah login. Masih menunjukkan pukul 08.45, tapi hatiku sudah dag-dig-dug, dan waktu terasa lambat. Detik demi detik berlalu sampai jam 9 tiba. Aku berpikir, Pasti bisa kok, sudah doa dan yakin. Tapi… tiba-tiba website down, dan aku ter-logout sendiri. Panik! Aku coba login lagi, hasilnya nihil, hanya muncul pesan error! Semakin panik, aku baca di grup, ternyata banyak yang mengalami hal yang sama. Temanku juga mengatakan hal yang sama, semua orang kesulitan login ke website.

Jam 9.11 aku berhasil masuk. Pengaju sudah terisi 423 dari kuota 4.796. Panik lagi! Aku coba segala cara—refresh browser, buka incognito, buka berbagai jenis browser—supaya bisa klik tab permohonan. Jika tombol “Ajukan Permohonan” berwarna biru, artinya kita bisa masuk ke halaman pendaftaran. Setelah beberapa waktu, tombol itu akhirnya berwarna biru. Aku langsung bersujud syukur, segera mengisi biodata dengan cepat karena waktu yang diberikan hanya 15 menit. Halaman 1 lancar, halaman 2 lancar, tapi di halaman 3, tersendat! Panik lagi! Setiap file yang aku coba unggah gagal. Waktu semakin habis. Aku coba ganti Wi-Fi ke tethering HP, tapi tetap gagal. Hingga waktu benar-benar habis, dan permohonanku terpental. Aku pun ter-logout sendiri.

Lemas… Rasanya mau nangis.

Usahaku seketika runtuh. Aku coba login lagi ke website tapi tidak bisa!

Aku pikir itu satu-satunya kesempatan, dan kalau sudah terpental berarti kesempatan itu hangus. Dunia rasanya runtuh. Tapi aku baca di grup lagi untuk mencari solusi. Mereka bilang coba terus masuk lagi dan ulangi dari awal. Akhirnya, meskipun panik, aku tetap mencoba. Ter-logout hingga ratusan kali kualami saat itu. Sampai akhirnya aku mendapat kesempatan kedua. Cepat-cepat aku isi lagi dan cek semuanya, tapi lagi-lagi terkendala di halaman ketiga untuk unggah file. Dan kembali lagi terpental sama seperti sebelumnya. Rasanya dunia runtuh untuk kedua kalinya. Kesempatan berharga yang kedua kali terbuang begitu saja. Kupikir semesta belum berpihak padaku.

Namun, aku tetap mencoba lagi dan lagi hingga masuk kesempatan ketiga. Kuota sudah terisi 3.000-an orang. Angka terus bertambah, mungkin karena banyak peminat dari seluruh Indonesia. Di IG MIDO, banyak yang protes dan mengeluh, hingga MIDO memberi pernyataan resmi bahwa pemohon mencapai 12.000 orang, sementara kuota hanya 4.796. Tidak heran jika website down. Tapi aku tetap berdoa. Aku yakin, surat sakti itu akan ada di tanganku hari ini! Akhirnya, aku berhasil masuk untuk ketiga kalinya, dan entah keajaiban dari mana aku bisa unggah semua file dengan bantuan tetheringHP. Aku langsung submit tanpa memikirkan sisa waktu, berserah. Yang penting aku sudah berusaha maksimal dan mengikuti semua prosedur.

Ternyata, untuk tahun ini, SDUWHV akan terbit di hari yang sama sekitar 1 jam setelah pengajuan diterima dan diverifikasi. Meski sudah lega karena berhasil submit, aku masih harus menunggu terbitnya SDUWHV. Dua jam berlalu tanpa kabar, membuatku cemas. Aku selesai submit jam 11.59, seharusnya jam 1 siang sudah terbit, tapi belum juga. Jujur, aku takut kalau ada dokumen yang terverifikasi gagal atau ada halangan lain, bahkan takut ditolak. Overthinking semakin menjadi-jadi. Aku hanya bisa duduk diam di depan laptop, menunggu status berubah ke penerbitan SDUWHV.

Tidak ada mood untuk makan sejak pagi hingga jam 14.40 sore, saat surat sakti itu akhirnya terbit!

Mau nangis bahagia! Tidak tahu lagi bagaimana mengekspresikan perasaanku. Ini adalah langkah awal untuk bisa apply WHV. Saat aku buka dan baca SDUWHV itu, rasanya seperti mimpi. Dari bulan Februari aku memimpikan ini, dan ini hari dimana aku benaar-benar mendapatkan surat berharga ini. Terima kasih banyak, Tuhan!

13 Oktober 2024 Hari Minggu yang cerah, aku memutuskan untuk fokus lodge visa. Karena ini pertama kalinya aku lodge visa, rasanya cukup deg-degan. Untungnya, aku punya banyak panduan yang bisa diikuti. Tapi tetap saja, aku sempat bingung—gimana caranya lodge visa kalau aku belum MCU? Kebingungan pertamaku: apa itu HAP ID, dan gimana caranya daftar MCU? Blank total. Untungnya, temanku mengirimkan link YouTube yang menjelaskan langkah-langkahnya. Baru deh aku paham prosesnya, termasuk cara mendapatkan HAP ID dan daftar MCU.

Aku segera menghubungi rumah sakit yang khusus untuk MCU Visa Australia, yaitu RS Premier Jatinegara. Aku memilih jadwal MCU hari Minggu, 27 Oktober 2024. Awalnya, aku berencana MCU pada 20 Oktober 2024, tapi karena suatu alasan, aku mau rescheduleke RS Bintaro. Sayangnya, RS Bintaro tidak melayani MCU pada hari Minggu. Akhirnya, aku kembali ke jadwal awal di RS Jatinegara. Namun, karena aku sudah mengajukan reschedule, jadwalku tanggal 20 Oktober hangus, jadi aku harus mundur jadwal MCU-ku ke tanggal 27 Oktober 2024.

23 Oktober 2024 Karena belum MCU, aku memutuskan untuk save dulu permohonan lodgement visa-ku. Alurnya memang bisa lodge visa dulu baru MCU, tapi aku belum punya dokumen yang di-translate, jadi rasanya lebih baik MCU dulu. Aku pun mulai mencari penerjemah tersumpah untuk menerjemahkan beberapa dokumen pendukung, seperti akta lahir dan kartu keluarga. Sayangnya, jadwal penerjemah penuh! Aku jadi menyesal kenapa tidak mengurus terjemahan lebih awal. Tapi, sudahlah. Aku terus menghubungi beberapa penerjemah tersumpah yang menerima layanan express. Untungnya, aku dapat Pak Joseph yang menyediakan layanan express dengan waktu pengerjaan 2 hari kerja. Dokumenku selesai diterjemahkan pada tanggal 23 Oktober 2024.

Saat aku mengecek hasil terjemahan dokumen—FYI, aku hanya menerjemahkan akta lahir dan kartu keluarga karena dokumen lainnya sudah bilingual—aku baru sadar kalau nama orangtuaku berbeda antara akta lahir dan KK. Wah, ini bikin aku galau berat. Seharusnya, aku lebih teliti sebelumnya untuk memastikan dokumen-dokumenku tidak ada masalah kecil seperti ini yang bisa menghambat proses visaku. Sebagai tambahan kekhawatiranku, SKCK-ku juga expired tepat tanggal 23 Oktober 2024. Aku tahu, SKCK adalah dokumen opsional untuk visa ini, tapi semakin banyak dokumen pendukung yang diunggah, kemungkinan visa granted akan lebih besar. Sayangnya, aku tidak punya waktu untuk memperpanjang SKCK karena harus mengurusnya langsung di Mabes Polri.

Aku bertanya di grup, dan mereka memastikan bahwa SKCK tidak wajib diunggah. Tapi tetap saja, aku merasa was-was. Tidak ada jaminan pasti apakah visaku akan grantedtanpa SKCK. Di tengah drama ini, muncul lagi kabar kalau ada masalah di immiaccount—katanya banyak yang tidak bisa lodge visa karena website error. Bahkan, beberapa orang menyebarkan rumor bahwa pendaftaran visa akan ditutup sampai tahun depan. Wah, ini benar-benar bikin panik dan overthinking.

Benar saja, malam itu, setelah aku mendapatkan hasil terjemahan dokumen, aku mencoba lodge visa. Tapi ternyata, immiaccount benar-benar tidak bisa diakses. Memang, aku sudah menyimpan semua data sejak 13 Oktober 2024, tapi halaman tersebut tidak bisa dilanjutkan. Yang muncul hanya notifikasi maintenance, dan itu membuatku semakin galau karena tidak bisa memproses visaku. Padahal, aku hanya tinggal lodge dan membayar biaya permohonan visa. Rasanya frustrasi karena sudah begitu dekat, tapi masih terhalang masalah teknis.

Hari itu, pikiranku penuh dengan kekhawatiran: soal nama orangtua yang tidak sinkron, SKCK expired, masalah immiaccount, dan waktu yang terus berjalan.

Rasanya seperti drama tak berujung.

Tiap jam aku terus refresh immiaccount, berharap ada perubahan. Aku juga rajin cek grup, siapa tahu ada teman-teman yang berbagi info kalau maintenance sudah selesai. Tapi tetap saja, hasilnya nihil—selalu gagal. Mungkin karena terlalu banyak orang yang mencoba lodge WHV ini, jadi aksesnya dibatasi. Aku mulai merasa menyesal, kenapa aku tidak lebih cekatan dan mengamankan lodge visa lebih awal. Overthinking pun muncul. Bagaimana kalau benar-benar kuota tahunan ditutup dan baru dibuka tahun depan? Kalau itu terjadi, perjuangan war SDUWHV-ku jadi sia-sia. Pikiran-pikiran itu membuatku tidak bisa tidur, hati gelisah, benar-benar galau.

Sampai akhirnya, 25 Oktober 2024, sekitar jam 12 siang, aku coba login ke immiaccount lagi, dan ternyata BISA! Tanpa pikir panjang, aku langsung lodge visa dan melakukan pembayaran. Untungnya, semua dokumen sudah aku unggah dan simpan sebelumnya, jadi begitu maintenance selesai, aku tinggal klik submit. Syukurlah, pada 25 Oktober 2024, jam 12.29, visaku tersubmit dan status berubah menjadi received.

Lega banget rasanya!

Tapi, tidak lama kemudian muncul kekhawatiran baru. Aku sudah punya HAP ID yang aku request sendiri sebelumnya, tapi aku lodge visa-nya dulu sebelum MCU. Saat lodge, ada pertanyaan apakah sudah pernah MCU sebelumnya. Kalau sudah, aku tinggal memasukkan HAP ID-ku. Masalahnya, aku belum MCU, tapi HAP ID-ku sudah ada. Kalau aku tidak memasukkan HAP ID, nanti malah dapat HAP ID baru dari imigrasi, yang berarti bisa jadi double. Bingung banget! Akhirnya, aku tetap nekat lodge visa dengan menyertakan HAP ID-ku yang aku request di awal, meskipun aku belum MCU. Aku hanya bisa berdoa semoga tidak ada masalah besar karena keputusan ini.

27 Oktober 2024 Aku berangkat ke Jakarta malam Minggu, 26 Oktober 2024, dengan penerbangan sore jam 6. Pesawat sempat sedikit delay, tapi aku tetap tenang karena Sabtu sore setelah pulang kerja aku tidak perlu terburu-buru mengejar ke bandara. Untungnya, proses MCU tidak lama, jadi aku tidak perlu mengajukan cuti. Tapi tentu saja, muncul lagi kekhawatiran baru. Malam sebelum MCU, aku haid! Panik lagi, karena salah satu persyaratan MCU adalah tes urin. Kenapa ya rasanya selalu ada saja masalah bertubi-tubi?

Sabtu pagi, aku benar-benar galau. Aku langsung memastikan ke pihak RS apakah aku masih bisa lanjut MCU dengan kondisi haid. Kalau tidak, aku harus reschedule tiket pesawat dan jadwal MCU, yang mana saat ini MCU sedang penuh-penuhnya karena banyak pengaju visa yang daftar. Kebayang antrean panjang dan waktu tunggu yang makin lama, dan itu bikin aku khawatir proses visaku jadi semakin tertunda. Untungnya, pihak RS mengonfirmasi bahwa tes urin sudah tidak lagi menjadi bagian dari MCU untuk visa ini. Lega banget!!! Setidaknya, aku tidak perlu reschedule, dan proses MCU bisa tetap berjalan sesuai jadwal.

Pagi itu, aku sampai di RS Premier Jatinegara sekitar jam 6.30 pagi dan langsung menuju tempat MCU di lantai 7. Meskipun pelayanannya baru buka jam 8, sekitar jam 7 lebih aku sudah diperbolehkan masuk untuk pengisian administrasi oleh stafnya. Estimasi awal, aku dapat giliran jam 9.05, tapi karena aku datang pertama, aku langsung dapat antrean pertama.

Jam 8.30, aku dipanggil untuk cek fisik dan mata. Dokternya melakukan sedikit wawancara tentang riwayat kesehatan dan menanyakan beberapa hal seputar diri kita. Setelah itu, dilakukan pemeriksaan fisik seperti cek nafas, detak jantung, dan refleks tubuh. Kemudian, lanjut ke tes mata seperti membaca huruf-huruf pada papan optik.

Selanjutnya, aku diarahkan ke ruangan kedua untuk timbang berat badan, cek tinggi badan, dan tensi. Di sini, aku juga diberitahu bahwa hasil MCU akan dikirimkan langsung ke imigrasi Australia dalam 3 hari kerja. Hasilnya bisa mulai ditanyakan pada H+1 setelah selesai. Setelah itu, aku diarahkan ke ruangan lain untuk pengambilan darah. Sebelum tes, aku sempat disarankan untuk banyak minum air agar hasilnya lebih baik. Oh ya, seminggu sebelum MCU, aku sampai nyetok susu Bear Brand dan minum rutin karena katanya itu bagus untuk kesehatan, terutama paru-paru. Did it work? Aku nggak tahu pasti, tapi aku tetap mengikuti saran orang-orang, siapa tahu memang ada manfaatnya.

Setelah selesai di lantai 7, aku lanjut ke kasir untuk melakukan pembayaran, kemudian diarahkan ke radiologi untuk Chest X-Ray. Proses Chest X-Ray cukup cepat ternyata. Saat tes, kita diminta mengikuti arahan staf, seperti cara bernapas yang sesuai prosedur. Di ruangan ini, kita hanya diperbolehkan memakai baju luar tanpa aksesoris seperti kalung, agar tidak mengganggu hasil foto. Seluruh proses MCU telah dipenuhi. Malamnya, aku pun langsung terbang kembali ke Pontianak.

MCU selesai! Berarti, aku tinggal menunggu hasilnya di-submit oleh pihak RS dan difinalisasi oleh imigrasi Australia.

Keesokan harinya setelah MCU, status Health Assessment di immiaccount-ku berubah menjadi finalised. Artinya, hasil MCU-ku bagus, dan pihak RS juga mengonfirmasi bahwa semua hasil normal. Lega rasanya! At least, aku tidak perlu MCU ulang, dan peluangku untuk granted semakin besar.

Tapi, apakah aku bisa menunggu dengan tenang? Oh, tentu tidak!

Masih ingat kekhawatiranku sebelumnya? Soal SKCK, aku sudah tidak terlalu cemas karena membaca banyak pengalaman orang yang tetap granted meskipun tanpa SKCK. Kalau pun nanti diminta, aku pikir aku bisa memperpanjang SKCK lagi.

Namun, yang benar-benar jadi sumber overthinking setiap hari adalah perbedaan nama orang tua di akta lahir dan kartu keluarga. Tiap hari aku kepikiran, apalagi setelah membaca case di Facebook tentang orang-orang yang kena random check karena masalah data ini. Ada yang harus bikin surat pernyataan kalau nama itu mengacu pada orang yang sama, ada juga yang diminta update KK, yang jelas itu semua butuh waktu dan proses yang tidak cepat, belum lagi harus di-translate lagi. Banyak juga yang bilang kalau tahu data ada perbedaan seperti ini, jangan coba-coba unggah KK karena bisa jadi malah bikin posisi kita lebih sulit kalau terkena random check. Rasanya, setiap hari aku tidak bisa tidur tenang, hanya bisa berdoa agar prosesku berjalan mulus dan visaku tidak menemui hambatan.

12 November 2024 18 hari berlalu sejak lodge visa dan selesai MCU. Setiap hari, aku rajin login ke immiaccount, berharap status visaku berubah dari received menjadi finalised dan granted. Tapi, nihil. Aku juga cek email berkali-kali, namun tidak ada notifikasi baru. Sementara itu, di grup, banyak pejuang WHV lain yang visanya sudah granted, dan aku mulai memperhatikan polanya—ternyata waktu lodge sangat berpengaruh. Semakin cepat kita lodge, semakin cepat visanya diproses. Karena aku lodge pada 25 Oktober 2024, berarti aku harus menunggu giliran teman-teman yang lodge pada 23 Oktober 2024 selesai granted terlebih dahulu sebelum giliranku. Setiap kali ada notifikasi dari Gmail, jantungku langsung berdebar kencang, tapi selalu saja bukan email granted. Rasanya mau nangis dan kecewa setiap kali harapan itu pupus.

14.46 Sore itu, aku memutuskan untuk refresh immiaccount untuk terakhir kalinya hari itu. Aku pikir, kalau tidak ada kabar, aku akan logout dan berharap lagi keesokan harinya.

Tapi… tiba-tiba, statusnya berubah menjadi FINALISED!

Aku terdiam. Bengong. Rasanya detik itu berhenti. Tanganku gemetaran. Aku refreshlagi untuk memastikan, dan di sebelah namaku tertulis GRANTED.

Aku mengecek kembali emailku, apa ada Grant Notification-nya? Beneran ada!

Semua overthinking-ku langsung buyar. Rasanya tidak bisa diungkapkan dengan kata-kata. Aku tidak perlu lagi memikirkan perbedaan nama dokumen atau takut terkena random check. Jantungku berdegup kencang, tapi kali ini penuh dengan kebahagiaan. Hari itu, semua impianku mulai terlihat semakin nyata.

Aku baca lagi granted letter-ku, dan akhirnya aku bisa mengatakan: Yes, I got that WHV with my name on it.

Terima kasih, Tuhan! ✨

Dan di sinilah perjalanan panjang ini akhirnya sampai pada awal yang baru. Semua perjuangan, rasa cemas, overthinking, dan doa yang tak henti-hentinya kini terbayar. Surat sakti itu bukan hanya sekadar dokumen, tapi simbol dari mimpi yang selama ini aku perjuangkan. Kini, langkah pertama sudah selesai—dan petualangan sesungguhnya baru saja dimulai.

Australia, here I come! 🌏✨

[samah-h]

Hello everyone, I hope you’re doing well.

I’m reaching out today as my family and I are facing extremely difficult circumstances due to the devastating war in Gaza. My children are in danger, and the situation is worsening every day. That’s why I’m asking for your help to save my loved ones from this harsh reality.

Our first goal is to raise €1400 to secure passports as an initial step toward ensuring my family’s safety and future. Thanks to God and your generous support, we’ve already raised €1048, but we still need €352 to reach our goal.

Every donation, no matter how small, makes a big difference. I sincerely thank you for your support and contributions. You are giving us hope.

Thank you and God bless you all.

[monamoon8]

Salah waiting in line with his uncle to get some water..Please don't give up on these beautiful children. They deserve much better than this!! Every contribution is a step closer towards ensuring their safety and well-being.

Please donate and reblog 🙏

[writerfarzanatutul]

Islamic teachings that can offer strength and direction during challenging times:

Life can often feel overwhelming with its difficulties, injustices, and sufferings. However, the Qur'an and Sunnah provide practical guidance to help us navigate through these hardships. Here are some key tips rooted in Islamic teachings that can offer strength and direction during challenging times:

1. Patience (Sabr)

Patience is emphasized throughout the Qur'an, especially during times of hardship. Allah reminds us that He is with those who are patient:

"And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah]." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:45)

When people hurt you, practicing patience means controlling your immediate emotional reactions and trusting that Allah is aware of your struggles. Sabr doesn't mean you suppress your feelings, but you manage them with the awareness that your patience will be rewarded.

2. Forgiveness and Letting Go

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known for his ability to forgive, even those who wronged him terribly. Holding onto hurt or grudges weighs you down emotionally. Allah encourages us to forgive:

"The repayment of a bad action is one equivalent to it. But whoever pardons and makes reconciliation, his reward is [due] from Allah..." (Surah Ash-Shura, 42:40)

Forgiving doesn’t mean you condone their behavior, but it releases you from the emotional burden. It allows you to heal.

3. Controlling Anger

The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that true strength lies in controlling anger. He said:

“The strong man is not the one who can overpower others, but the one who controls himself when angry.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

When you feel anger building, remember this teaching. Try to step away, take a deep breath, and recite ��A'udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim" (I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed Satan). This simple act helps calm the mind and refocus.

4. Turn to Prayer and Du’a

When you feel overwhelmed, make prayer your refuge. Salah is a direct connection to Allah, and it brings peace to the heart:

"Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (Surah Ar-Ra'd, 13:28)

Du’a (supplication) is another powerful tool. When you’re feeling hurt or wronged, ask Allah for help in healing your heart and guiding your actions. You can pray for ease, guidance, and even for those who hurt you. This doesn’t mean you excuse their behavior, but it softens your own heart.

5. Seek Refuge in Allah’s Justice

It’s natural to feel hurt when others wrong you, but Allah assures us that He is the Most Just. Trust in His divine justice:

"And do not think that Allah is unaware of what the wrongdoers do. He only delays them for a Day when eyes will stare [in horror]." (Surah Ibrahim, 14:42)

This reminder can help release some of the anger or desire for revenge, knowing that justice ultimately rests with Allah.

6. Keeping Good Company

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised surrounding ourselves with good company. If you're frequently hurt by others, try to find supportive, compassionate people who will uplift you:

“A person is upon the religion of his close friend, so let one of you look at whom he befriends.” (Tirmidhi)

Good friends can help lighten your emotional load and provide comfort and advice in difficult times.

7. Practicing Gratitude (Shukr)

When hurt by others, it’s easy to focus on the negative, but Islam teaches us to practice gratitude:

“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]...” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:7)

Gratitude shifts your focus from the pain to the blessings you still have. It can be as simple as thanking Allah for your health, family, or even the strength to handle challenges.

[babblingpipit]

Struggle

Sepertinya salah satu trait aku adalah menolak untuk memilih hidup susah. Bukan berarti hidupku isinya pelangi dan unicorn semua. Tapi ketika membuat pilihan hidup, aku selalu mengambil keputusan berdasarkan hal yang memberi kebahagiaan, small joy in every step. Konsekuensi pilihan ini mungkin membuat aku ga punya duit sebanyak kalo aku mau struggle, atau ga seproduktif kalo aku mau struggle, tapi aku ga percaya sama delayed gratification, I want to be grateful in every minute I have.

Seperti sudah kuceritakan disini, akhir-akhir ini hidup lagi overwhelmed banget. Kapan hari si Adit bilang "untuk pertama kalinya sejak kita nikah aku liat kamu lupa beresin kasur, aku tau kamu overwhelmed banget ya pagi-pagi soalnya itu selimut udah dilipet tapi disampirin di crib". Yes, di hari itu aku udh mau beresin kasur, udah lipet selimut dan disingkirin, niatnya mau rapihin sprei dan tata bantal tapi entah apa yang terjadi aku terdistraksi dan ga selesai (kayanya boy nangis minta susu atau pup gitu).

Karena tau aku pagi agak susah menghandle bayi sendiri, akhirnya aku geser mandi aku dan bayi jadi malam hari sebelum tidur. Cuci botol dan siapin susu bayi juga Adit yang handle jadi alhamdulillah ngurangin to do list pagi hari dan jadi lebih chill.

Begitu juga kemaren pas bayi suatu hari bangun lebih awal, aku punya pilihan ke kantor lebih awal vs ngopi. Aku tau akan lebih happy kalo beli kopi wkwk jadinya itulah yang aku lakukan.

Memasuki tahun keEMPAT postdoc, sudah mulai harus mikir independent project untuk dilead sendiri. Jujur agak gapunya waktu untuk brainstorming. Akhirnya aku chat mentorku (yang juga perempuan dan punya dua balita) untuk curhat, bahwa aku merasa produktifitas turun banget karena harus pumping 2-3 jam sekali. Belum daycare drop off dan keribetan pagi hari. Guess what. Dia bilang "Pit, semua hal ada alternatif yang lebih mudahnya. Misal mengasihi bikin kamu overwhelmed, formula pun ga buruk loh. Kalo pagi kamu ga sempet mandiin bayi, gapapa banget loh dia ke daycare ga mandi pagi. Semisal kamu ga apply fellowship tahun ini, masih akan ada loh opportunity lain yang bisa kamu pegang. Be kinder and more gentle to yourself ya. Ga harus semua kepegang yang penting kamu masih waras dan punya semangat menjalani ini semua! Aku ingat pas di fase anak bayi pun bisa mandi aja udah bagus banget. Give credit to yourself". Haaa nangis banget. Bener semua ada alternatifnya, tinggal pilih yang sesuai dengan hal yang bikin kita bahagia dan sejalan dengan value kita.

[asrisgratitudejournal]

Buku part 1

Yaampun setelah membaca tulisan terakhir cukup dramatis juga yah, tapi emang semingguan kemarin (sampai sekarang pun) bawaannya mellow terus rasanya ingin quitting, walaupun sudah diketahui alasannya adalah karena sedang pre-menstruation syndrome jadi emang bawaannya depressive mood mulu. Sekarang sudah better kok guys, makasih banyak yah doanya.

Minggu kemarin ditutup dengan ku menangis di uni-park pas pulang sore-sore gara-gara JALAN SAMBIL MAIN HANDPHONE!!! Dan emang uni-park kan jalannya gak rata yah, itu tuh kaya paved trail/footpath gitu loh jadi emang kadang ada jeglogan, kadang wavy, jadi mis-stepped aja terus kecengklak dah tu ankle kaki kanan. Betulan yang dirasakan instan adalah syok/kaget, sakitnya belum kerasa banget sih, tapi badan langsung anget naik kaya ada blood rush gitu ke kepala. Terus mikir kan. Akhirnya minggir dulu ke samping but catching breath sambil berdiri. Setelah semenit atau 2 menit berdiri menenangkan diri, berusaha jalan. Di saat berusaha jalan dan menopangkan beban tubuh ke ankle kanan itulah kerasa SAKIT BANGET. “Ok, gakbisa Non kalau lanjut jalan sekarang, harus duduk dulu dan dilakukan first aid nih ke kaki”, kata aku kepada diriku sendiri dalam hati teh. Untungnya gak jauh dari lokasi ku berdiri itu ada bench, kira-kira 50 m lah. Jalan ke situ pelan-pelan dengan menggunakan ankle kanan-ku seminimal mungkin lalu duduk. Karena habis hujan (dan mulai gerimis juga pas kejadian ini terjadi), benchnya agak basah. Tapi ya mau gimana lagi, nggak sempet banget ngelap-ngelap bench kaki lagi sakit gitu, akhirnya langsung duduk aja basah-basahan. Langsung buka tas, buka sepatu dan kaos kaki, ngeluarin Voltarol, pijet-pijet dikit, liat sebengkak apa, belom bengkak-bengkak banget sih pas kejadian, terus langsung bebat yang kenceng pake elastic band yang memang sudah siap sedia di tas (aku ngalamin sprained ankle ini bukan yang pertama kali gaes, makanya sudah punya first aid kit-nya).

Terus ditengah-tengah ngebebat nangis kenceng banget WKWKW. Itu nangisnya akumulasi dari banyak hal sih, mumpung bisa nangis di luar dan gaada orang yaudah-lah nangisin aja semuanya sekalian. Ya nangis karena sedih tulisan thesis gak maju-maju, data aneh, ngerasa ketinggalan dari teman-teman lain, ya sakit juga, dan kehujanan kebasahan, nggak punya uwang. Pokoknya semua yang lagi pengen ditangisin ditangisin dah itu semua barengan di situ. Beres ngebebat hujannya lanjut makin deras, dan aku juga posisi lagi ga bawa coat dan payung jadi yaudah harus segera move on buat lanjut jalan ke rumah. Posisi uni-park ke rumah tuh ada kali ya 1 km (sebentar cek googlemaps). Oh 1 mile persis aka 1.6 km. Yaudah jalan aja deh tuh pelan-pelan dengan kondisi kaki sudah dililit sejauh 1.6 km sambil meratapi nasib HUHU. Sesampainya di building rumah pun masih harus naik tangga lagi ke lantai 3 (atau lantai 4 kalau pake versi lantainya Indo). Sampe kamar langsung rebahan. Setelah apdet stori (wkwkw harus banget), buka bebatan compression band, ambil es, taroh plastik tik, ambil handuk kecil, langsung kompres ankle pake es.

Itu kejadian di atas terjadi Kamis sore minggu lalu, ku lagi masukkin sampel ke oven 40C overnight buat ngeringin moisture karena habis meeting sama supervisory team dan ngeliat ada data yang aneh banget (TOC aku naik ke atas di eksperimen redeposition, padahal harusnya kalau udah ke-convert jadi CH4 mah ya bisa diekstraksi pake solvent, tapi ini tuh unextractable C-nya). Jadi salah satu suspect terbesar adalah: mungkin sampel-ku kebanyakan moisture, jadinya mass pas analisi over-estimated. Tapi karena kaki begitu bentuknya, udah pasti aku gaakan bisa ke lab buat ngeluarin sampel di hari Jumat kan. Ku juga tapi bersyukur banget sih, at least aku jadi punya 3 hari buat recover: Jumat bisa WFH, Sabtu, dan Minggu tinggal gausah keluar rumah.

Sekarang hari Rabu. Kemarin Senin Selasa udah ke lab lagi udah jalan >6 km/hari lagi selama 2 hari itu. Jalannya pelan-pelan sih, tapi at least kaki udah gak yang sakit-sakit amat lah dipake jalan. Jumat sebetulnya juga jadinya gak kerja banyak-banyak amat, cuma ngeplot-ngeplot, laporan ke postdoc kalau datanya beneran (bukan artefak), terus diambil decision buat Senin nganalisis ulang. “Baiklah”, kata aku teh.

DIH jadi cerita panjang tentang kaki keseleo bukannya nulis tentang buku padahal judulnya sudah dipikirkan dan idenya tuh semalam di kasur pas mau tidur udah kepikiran, tapi semalam males ngeluarin laptop dari tas buat ngetik.

Kayanya melihat ini tulisan sudah 2 page A4, di-break dulu deh ya. Nulis tentang buku-nya dilanjut di part 2. Nggak penting sih, cuma lagi pengen ngalamin nostalgic moment reminiscing buku-buku yang aku baca dulu dan kenapa suka baca buku dan gimana hobi itu sempat hilang dan sekarang mau melanjutkan lagi. Triggernya adalah dari twitter (tentu saja, duniaku kan revolved around twitter) yang entah kenapa lagi rame bahas “seberapa penting baca buku”? Lupa awalnya teh gimana muncul ini di timeline, tapi pasti ada hubunganna sama Gibran lah-ya. OH! Yang ada video dia sama Najwa itu ditanya sukanya baca buku apa, terus dijawab di keluarganya gaada budaya membaca buku. Amit-amit YaAllah… Anyway, iya itu triggernya satu.

Terus juga ada trigger dari kemarin Senin aku habis nonton Pride and Prejudice di common room Linacre sama Oliv dan Puspa gara-gara ku-bilang aku belum pernah nonton Pride and Prejudice (awalnya kita bahas coat a la Mr. Darcy pas lagi hangout minggu lalu, terus I was like… Mr. Darcy who? Ofc, aku pernah dengar tentang Mr. Darcy tapi nggak sampe yang pernah nonton). Terus dari situ jadi bahas banyak hal kayak gimana rasanya jadi wanita di jaman itu (late 18th century, early 19th), Jane Austen dulu terutama juga pas jadi women writer yang belum common (mostly people use male pseudonym atau limited to specific genre aja karena dianggapnya dulu women ya ndak pinter dan mampu untuk menulis). Dari situ convonya evolving jadi ku mikir apakah aku lebih banyak baca cewek atau cowok? Terus pas dipikir-pikir lagi aku lebih banyak baca penulis cewek! YAH tuh kan. Ini mah jadinya udah masuk ke topik part 2. Yaudah nanti kulanjutin lagi. Tapi intinya iya, awalnya buka word tu mau nulis ini: siapa writer fav-ku, gimana genre buku yang kubaca evolve through time, secara statistika aku lebih banyak baca buku tulisan cewe apa cowo…

Untuk pembukaan, mungkin bisa dicek dulu aku habis pamer bookshelf ak di twt: https://x.com/nonioktvn/status/1836037328692723745 (terus ak senang banget dari twt itu aku bs cek qrt-nya dan menemukan orang yang se-taste sama aku bacaannya!!!)

Dah itu dulu aja. Ini mau mandi lalu otw lab sambil call sama Abi. Buh-bye! (Part 2 menyusul).

Rumah Castle Mill

12:31 18 Sept 2024