I have always been warned of malicious friendships. Growing up, I was constantly told to “choose friends wisely,” and to avoid those who are “misguided” in order to steer clear of negative influence. But how was I to know who to choose? How was I supposed to know that I
Volunteer
Camp Tamaracouta
Camping in the middle of the forest in a cabin about the size of a mobile home does not particularly sound appealing, especially not when the weather is nearly freezing. But of course, Utopia had a different perspective. Alhamdulillah, our trip to Camp Tamaracouta was filled with laughter, pure joy,
Nostalgic for Nuday
You’re walking down the street carrying groceries for the house. You see kids playing soccer, fathers at the coffeehouse and mothers telling their kids to eat some lunch. Just another normal day in the city. You have now reached your house and can see your mom looking out the window
On Being Good
I’ve always looked at my position as a mentor at Utopia as one that allowed me to teach children. Never did I look at it as an opportunity to learn from them, until a child taught me one of the most important lessons I’ve ever learned. One day, one of
What Utopia Means To Me
The first thing that pops into my head on a Monday morning is usually, “what is next Saturday’s session going to be like?” Even while I’m sitting in class, all the beautiful memories I’ve experienced as an assistant mentor constantly play in my head. I’ve found that I always learn
The Power of Duaa
Duaa. I never realized how strong it could be. For a while I didn’t feel like I belonged anywhere. No matter what Muslim organizations or institutions I joined, I never felt as though I was part of a Muslim group, never felt like I was surrounded by people I wanted
Merrowvista – A Look Back
As a new assistant mentor and gratified member of the growing passionate family of the Utopia Boston organization, I was very grateful to have the opportunity to go on my very first camping trip with everyone. Though I was undoubtedly excited about the trip, I was also a little nervous
The Experience of a Lifetime
Utopia’s fall retreat to Camp Becket at Berkshires served as a truly beautiful experience for both children and mentors and was the perfect way to start the semester. From gathering around a campfire, to canoeing on a lake, and gazing at the stars, the camp was filled with many memorable