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By Mohamed Miah We live in a world where entertainment is no longer just escapism; it is a battleground of ideas, shaping perceptions, values, and even faith. Beneath the surface of billion-dollar franchises like Marvel lies a deeper, more unsettling narrative—one that subtly distorts truth and weaves doubt into the minds of millions. Take Thanos,
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Think back on your most memorable road trip. One of the most memorable road trips of my life was with my dad. We were heading to London for my cousin’s wedding, planning to meet my brother in Birmingham afterwards. He was already there having what I’d later find out was the time of his life
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What snack would you eat right now? I’m going to skip this question—of all the things you could ask, you chose “What snack would you eat right now?” Has this been taken over by a teenager on a casual date?
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Come up with a crazy business idea. When someone says, “Think of a crazy business idea,” my mind doesn’t race to billion-pound schemes or tech start-ups designed to dominate the world. Instead, I think about something a little simpler, a bit more soulful, and most importantly, something that could make a difference in people’s lives.
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Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a youth. What became of it? When I think back to my childhood and the one item I was most attached to, you might expect me to say a remote-control car—I had a Ferrari one—or maybe a games console, like my trusty Amstrad with Burnin’ Rubber
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What is your mission? Let me start by saying this—some of these blogging prompts are really testing my patience. “What is your mission?” Honestly, what sort of question is that? Are we all supposed to be secret agents with a detailed dossier on life’s objectives? It’s a bit much, isn’t it? I could ignore it
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What are your thoughts on the concept of living a very long life? It’s one of those questions that really makes you stop and think. The answer isn’t as straightforward as it seems, at least not for me. My thoughts on living a very long life really depend on a few things—how long are we
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By Mohamed Miah In an age dominated by technology, where the glow of screens seems to replace the light of reflection, the world has been drawn into a shadowy realm that many fail to recognise. Beneath the surface of digital progress lies a sinister undercurrent—one steeped in deception, and an ancient battle between good and
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Why It Will Never Be Enough By Mohamed Miah We live in an age where technology is racing ahead faster than we can keep up. Artificial intelligence is already reshaping the world, and now the talk of quantum computing is on the rise—a technology that could make today’s supercomputers look like pocket calculators. Together, quantum
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By Mohamed Miah If cats could speak, they’d probably say, “Leave our testicles alone.” It’s not much to ask, yet in Western societies, neutering has become so normalised that few stop to question it. Is it really about compassion, or is it another way to control animals, rooted in capitalist convenience? In places like Palestine,
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By Mohamed Miah From the dawn of human history, people have sought answers to life’s biggest questions. Who created us? Why are we here? What happens after we die? Across the world, through oral traditions, ancient texts, and archaeological evidence, a consistent thread emerges: the presence of messengers and guides sent to remind us of
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By Mohamed Miah Brexit wasn’t a revolution. It wasn’t about sovereignty, control, or giving power back to the people. It was a masterclass in deceit—a political con pulled off by a group of elite opportunists who saw an opening to exploit our frustrations. Let’s be real: Brexit was a betrayal of the working class, sold
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By Mohamed Miah Love is perhaps the most powerful force we experience. It’s not something we can measure or contain, and yet it shapes every aspect of our lives. Love can feel like Allah’s mercy in its purest form—a gift that binds us together and, at times, a test that leaves us exposed and vulnerable.
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By Mohamed Miah Reality as we know it has always been a subject of fascination. Scientists probe the cosmos, philosophers wrestle with existence, and theologians anchor us with the divine. Yet, the truth of it all remains elusive. Is our world purely material? Or is it governed by something deeper, something intangible that connects us
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When I was a little boy, somewhere between the ages of four and seven, my curiosity knew no bounds. Growing up in a large house in Wood Green during the holidays, was like living in a treasure trove. Every drawer, every cupboard, every hidden corner seemed to hold unknown wonders just waiting to be discovered.
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What are your biggest challenges? Life isn’t easy, is it? Some days feel like a constant battle to stay grounded, to hold onto faith, and to do the right thing despite everything pulling you in different directions. When I think about my biggest challenges, a few things come to mind—some personal, some tied to the
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What makes you feel nostalgic? Nostalgia is a strange thing. It creeps up on you when you least expect it, often triggered by the smallest things. For me, it’s usually smells that bring memories rushing back, transporting me to moments I thought I’d left behind. A whiff of Aramis or Kouros, and suddenly, I’m reminded
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What relationships have a positive impact on you? When I think about the relationships that have had the most positive impact on my life, the answer is simple, my family. Every bond I’ve had with them has taught me something valuable, and those lessons have shaped who I am today. My Dad A Lesson in
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By Mohamed Miah Cinema, at its best, is a reflection of our shared humanity—its beauty, struggles, and contradictions. But today, the silver screen has become a distorted mirror, bent to serve the interests of the powerful. Hollywood and Bollywood, once champions of storytelling and cultural diplomacy, now feel like tools of propaganda, feeding audiences narratives
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By Mohamed Miah We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” It’s a simple proverb, one your parents might’ve thrown at you when you were making risky choices. But for immigrants in the West, it’s more than a cliché—it’s survival advice. Because if you’ve migrated here, leaving behind everything in
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If you started a sports team, what would the colors and mascot be? If I ever ventured into the exciting world of starting my own sports team, the process would be deeply personal and reflective of who I am. After all, what is a sports team if not a symbol of its creator’s values, aspirations,
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How have your political views changed over time? Politics is a deeply personal journey, shaped by our experiences, values, and the ever-changing landscape of the world around us. My own political views have evolved significantly over the years, shaped by hope, disappointment, and a burning desire for fairness and justice. Let me take you through
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By Mohamed Miah When most people hear the word “communism,” they shudder, imagining authoritarian regimes, gulags, or Big Brother-style surveillance. But what if I told you that the essence of communism is far closer to the values you hold dear—community, fairness, and equality—than the media and capitalist propaganda would have you believe? The truth is,
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You get to build your perfect space for reading and writing. What’s it like? When it comes to designing a perfect space for reading and writing, most people might lean towards a quiet, secluded corner, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But me? I’d prefer a room that’s alive with energy,
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What is your all time favorite automobile? When someone asks me, “What’s your all-time favourite car?” I wish I had a quick answer—a specific model, a sleek design, or a nostalgic memory tied to a beloved vehicle. But the truth is, I don’t. I can’t. My relationship with cars isn’t a straightforward love affair; it’s
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How are you creative? When I think about creativity, I don’t picture myself standing in front of an easel painting some grand masterpiece. For me, creativity is something much simpler but just as heartfelt—it’s in the way I think, solve problems, and connect with the world around me. It’s not always about making something perfect;
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Who are the biggest influences in your life? There comes a point in life where you realise that the concept of “influence” changes. For me, I’m at an age now where there are no influencers in my life. Not in the way there used to be. I’ve been influenced in the past, shaped by those
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Share what you know about the year you were born. I wasn’t exactly keeping a diary in 1983—being a newborn, but there’s something fascinating about diving into the year you were born. It’s like exploring the backdrop of a story you didn’t know you were part of. So, here’s my take on 1983—a year that
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Are you a good judge of character? Growing up, I always watched people closely. Maybe it was a defence mechanism, a way of protecting myself by understanding those around me. I’ve always studied people—their words, their actions, their silences—and it’s given me a decent instinct for reading character. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned,
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By Mohamed Miah The world is vast, stretching across continents that dwarf Europe in size, population, and resources. Yet for centuries, this tiny cluster of nations has dominated the global stage, dictating the terms of progress, trade, and politics. How? By leaning into a “little man syndrome”—a tendency to overcompensate for its physical and geographical
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By Mohamed Miah In 1980, during routine construction work in East Talpiot, Jerusalem, a rock-cut tomb was unearthed. At the time, it was just another ancient burial site in a region steeped in history. Fast forward to 2007, and this forgotten discovery became the centre of controversy thanks to The Lost Tomb of Jesus, a
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By Mohamed Miah When you think of prayer, what comes to mind? For most, it’s a quiet affair—hands clasped, heads bowed, sitting silently in pews, or whispering softly into the void. But here’s the truth: this isn’t how the prophets prayed. Not Abraham, not Moses, not Jesus. The prophets didn’t just speak their prayers—they moved.
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By Mohamed Miah Sometimes, the more we look at the world around us, the more we realise how much of it we can’t see. Gravity, dark matter, consciousness—these invisible forces bind existence together in ways that feel miraculous, and yet, they happen so effortlessly that we don’t even notice. It’s like zooming into the smallest
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When are you most happy? When am I most happy? Honestly, I’ve thought about this a lot, and it always brings me back to one thing, my connection with Allah. Everything in life, the good and the not-so-good, flows from Him. It’s when I take a moment to reflect, to pray, or to simply sit
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What was the last thing you did for play or fun? You know, when I first tried to answer this question—“What was the last thing you did for play or fun?”—I drew a blank. That’s how you know it’s been far too long! My first instinct was to say writing, but that’s evolved into something
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List your top 5 grocery store items. Grocery shopping. It’s one of those things we all need to do, yet it says a lot about who we probably are. There’s the practical side of it – stocking up on the essentials to keep the house running smoothly – but then there’s the part I enjoy,
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Describe a man who has positively impacted your life. A Tribute to My Suto Bhai There are many men who have had a positive impact on my life. From my father and grandfather to uncles on both sides of the family, cousin brothers, and even my brothers-in-law, the list is long and deeply meaningful. But
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Is your life today what you pictured a year ago? Let’s be honest for a minute. A year ago, we all had some kind of picture in our heads about where we’d be today. Maybe it was a detailed vision—stronger, healthier, richer, happier—or maybe it was a vague hope that things would “just be better.”
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What skills or lessons have you learned recently? They say every day is a school day, and I couldn’t agree more. As we grow older, we realise that life is less about reaching some imagined destination and more about learning, adapting, and finding peace along the way. Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the skills and
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What cities do you want to visit? There’s something magical about cities. Each one has its own rhythm, flavour, and story to tell. Some dazzle with their iconic landmarks, others charm with their culture and history. For me, the idea of exploring these vibrant hubs around the world sparks an unshakeable wanderlust. So, here’s my
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Tell us one thing you hope people say about you. When life slows down, and I find myself reflecting on the moments that truly matter, one thought often lingers, What will people remember about me? We all leave behind impressions, big or small, on those we cross paths with. But if I could choose one
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Tell us about your first day at something — school, work, as a parent, etc. First days have always been a bit of a rollercoaster for me. Whether it was moving up to the next year in school with the same classmates or starting a new chapter entirely, the nerves never failed to show up.
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Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech? When I think about the first time I ever gave a public speech, I’d be lying if I said it didn’t terrify me. There’s something inherently nerve-wracking about stepping into the spotlight, where all eyes and ears are tuned to you, waiting to hear what
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What are your favorite physical activities or exercises? https://the-narratives.com/2024/12/10/josh-shapiro-and-usa-hypocrites-give-virtue-signaling-speech/
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By Mohamed Miah Virtue-signaling speeches have become a staple in modern political discourse, where lofty ideals and moral condemnations are often used to mask glaring hypocrisies. The recent comments by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, condemning violence as a means of addressing political differences in the wake of the Luigi Mangione case, highlight this contradiction with
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What is something others do that sparks your admiration? It’s often said that admiration is a reflection of what we aspire to be, and I find this to be true in my own life. When I think about the qualities I admire most in others, two stand out vividly: their discipline in physical exercise and
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What’s your favorite cartoon? There’s something magical about cartoons. They’re a world where imagination runs wild, where robots can have feelings, lions can be kings, and a group of ragtag heroes can save the day. For me, cartoons aren’t just about nostalgia, they’re about storytelling that transcends age, blending creativity, emotion, and adventure in a
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What could you do less of? We live in a world that thrives on excess. More productivity, more possessions, more screen time, more commitments. It’s as if life itself is shouting, “More is better!” But when was the last time you stopped to consider what you could do less of? For me, this question cuts
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What positive events have taken place in your life over the past year? As I reflect on the past year, I find myself amazed at the whirlwind of events that have unfolded—some life-changing, some deeply personal, and others exciting. It’s been a year of hard work, cherished moments, and unexpected victories, all of which have
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Do you ever see wild animals? Living in the heart of a bustling city, wildlife sightings are rare. The urban landscape I call home is mostly a “concrete jungle” of streets, buildings, and parks that have adapted to our modern way of life. While nature might seem far away, occasionally, it sneaks up on you
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Do you have a favorite place you have visited? Where is it? When it comes to my favourite place in the world, only one name springs to mind, Bangladesh. More specifically, Moulvibazar, a serene little town nestled in Sylhet, rich with the memories and stories of my roots. For me, it’s not just a place
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Share five things you’re good at. When asked to reflect on the things I’m good at and after some thought, the five things that I feel define my strengths are as follows; 1. Connecting with People Whether it’s a quick chat with a stranger or a deep conversation with a loved one, I’ve always found
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What is one thing you would change about yourself? When asked what I’d change about myself, my answer is simple: nothing. Now, if you’d asked me the same question years ago, I probably would’ve had a long list. As a younger version of myself, I might’ve wished for more patience, less stubbornness, or even the
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Are you more of a night or morning person? I used to proudly claim the title of a night owl. Late nights felt like my sanctuary—time to play, read, or indulge in quiet activities when the world had finally gone silent. I thought it was just who I was, part of my genetic makeup. But
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What are your feelings about eating meat? When it comes to food, especially the topic of eating meat, opinions can stir up quite the conversation. For me, it’s simple—I enjoy eating meat, but with a conscious approach. I believe in ensuring that the meat I consume is ethically sourced and prepared in the halal way.
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Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when cultural pressures, family dynamics, or personal struggles weigh us down. I know what it’s like to face challenges that make you feel isolated or misunderstood. But I also know that there’s light on the other side of those moments, and with the right support, life does get
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What are your two favorite things to wear? When it comes to what I wear, I’m a firm believer that comfort and meaning go hand in hand. Fashion isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how it makes you feel. So, here are my two favourite things to wear that blend both style and substance.
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What technology would you be better off without, why? If I had to choose a piece of technology I’d be better off without, it would undoubtedly be mobile phones—more specifically, the social media apps that now dominate them. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok have transformed what was once a tool for connection
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What’s the hardest decision you’ve ever had to make? Why? “What’s the hardest decision you’ve ever had to make?” It’s a loaded question, isn’t it? At first glance, I thought of the decisions I’ve made over the years—some big, others seemingly small but just as impactful. Truth is life is a never-ending series of tough
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Do you or your family make any special dishes for the holidays? When it comes to the holidays, I believe the best moments are made in the kitchen and shared around the table. There’s something magical about the smells wafting through the house, the sound of laughter (and occasional bickering!) in the background, and the
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If you didn’t need sleep, what would you do with all the extra time? Have you ever wondered what you’d do with all the extra hours if sleep wasn’t necessary? For me, it’s an idea that sparks an endless to-do list—but not the mundane kind filled with chores or work obligations. It’s more about indulging
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Name your top three pet peeves. We all have our quirks and irritations—those little things that make our blood simmer. For me, there are three particular habits that never fail to ruffle my feathers. They’re not just annoying; they reveal something deeper about the way we treat each other and the respect we show to
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Who are your current most favorite people? As someone who enjoys reflecting on the world and its complexities, it’s an interesting challenge to pinpoint my current favourite influential people—particularly if we set aside the familiar comforts of family, friends, and colleagues. Instead, let’s venture into the broader sphere of individuals who influence and inspire through
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What are your favorite animals? When it comes to animals, I love them all. Of course, it’s easier to admire the less aggressive ones, but even those whose nature leans towards ferocity deserve respect when they’re in their natural habitat. Admiration from afar is often the wisest approach—no one wants to interrupt a lion’s lunch.
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Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? Why? When it comes to the age-old debate of beach vs. mountains, I have to admit, my answer is as simple as a cool sea breeze: the beach wins every time. Picture it—sun on my face, the gentle warmth of sand beneath my feet, and the rhythmic sound
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What are your family’s top 3 favorite meals? When it comes to food, I wish I could wave a magic wand and declare a top three that would unite my family at the dinner table in culinary harmony. Imagine the simplicity! But alas, life is rarely that straightforward. My family is full of individuals with
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If you could meet a historical figure, who would it be and why? If I could meet one historical figure, the choice is clear, unwavering, and deeply personal: Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It’s a question that makes you pause and wonder, “What would I ask him? How would I feel in his presence?” For me, the
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Do you trust your instincts? Do you trust your instincts? For me, the answer is an unwavering yes. It’s something I’ve honed since childhood, starting as a way to keep myself out of trouble and later to steer me away from danger. Over the years, I’ve come to realise just how deeply connected we are
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What’s your favorite month of the year? Why? When I was younger, December was hands down my favourite month of the year. There was something magical about the crisp chill in the air, the way it sharpened your senses and made you appreciate every cosy layer of clothing. Winter brought out the best of fashion
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What is your favorite place to go in your city? Living in my city, my favourite place to go has to be the city centre. It’s where the buzz of life meets the comforts of family time. Though we don’t do it often—because let’s face it, a day out like this can be a bit
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What’s the first impression you want to give people? When I was younger, I used to obsess over first impressions. It felt like everything hinged on the right look—the perfect outfit, pristine shoes, and just the right accessories to tie it all together. I wanted people to see someone polished, professional, and well put-together. It
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What book are you reading right now? If you asked me what book I’m reading right now, I’d have to admit with a heavy heart—I’m not. It’s not for lack of interest; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. My love for reading runs deep, rooted in a fascination with stories, ideas, and the sheer joy
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If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? If I could live anywhere in the world, the answer would be as clear as the star-studded skies of my ancestral homeland: Bangladesh. There’s something deeply grounding about the idea of going back to where my family’s roots lie, to live in a
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What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever found (and kept)? As a kid, Sundays had a special thrill for me—they were “flea market days.” We’d head out, rain or shine, to explore rows of stalls filled with people’s unwanted bits and bobs. It was more than just a market; it was a treasure hunt. You never
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What part of your routine do you always try to skip if you can? When it comes to routines, I have a bit of a split personality. On one side, I’m impulsive, free from the chains of set routines. There’s something about the spontaneity that keeps me sharp and energised – perhaps a bit of
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Who is the most famous or infamous person you have ever met? When you hear “the most famous person you’ve met,” it’s easy to picture a movie star, a sports legend, or perhaps even a figure of influence. But fame is such a loaded word these days. We’ve turned it into this idolised status where
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What is good about having a pet? When we talk about “having a pet,” we’re often missing the bigger picture. These are not just animals meant for our amusement. They are living, breathing beings with their own personalities, emotions, and needs. And as soon as we start thinking of them as more than just pets—as
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Name the most expensive personal item you’ve ever purchased (not your home or car). When someone asks about my most expensive personal purchase, my mind goes straight to my tech collection. And yes, it’s an all-Apple line-up. For me, it’s more than just individual gadgets – it’s about how these devices come together to create
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What podcasts are you listening to? I don’t really dive into podcasts regularly – I’ll admit, it’s just not my go-to for entertainment. But when I do, it’s all about two things: football and comedy. There’s something about tuning into a familiar voice talking about the beautiful game or cracking jokes that makes it feel
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What was your favorite subject in school? When I think back to school, the truth is, I don’t really remember having a favourite subject. I wasn’t the kind of student you’d find lost in books or clinging to the teacher’s every word. My mind was elsewhere—preoccupied with the world, with thoughts that felt much bigger
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How do you manage screen time for yourself? In today’s world, where screens are everywhere, managing screen time isn’t just a challenge—it’s a choice that needs discipline and awareness. For me, it’s about staying conscious of how I’m spending my time, especially when it starts to pull me away from what really matters: my family.
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Do you need time? Do we really need more time? It’s a question that sits at the edge of our modern lives, where the clock is always ticking, calendars fill up fast, and days seem to blend into one another. But let’s pause for a moment. What if time itself is nothing but a social
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What will your life be like in three years? As I look ahead to the next three years, the simple truth is, only Allah knows what’s truly in store for me. I am reminded daily that He is the best of planners, and as my health isn’t quite where I’d want it to be, the
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Invent a holiday! Explain how and why everyone should celebrate. When it comes to inventing new holidays, I’m usually the first to say, “Enough is enough!” And truth be told, I believe we’ve already been given the holidays that matter most. The celebrations ordained by Allah—like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—bring meaning and purpose, connecting
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What are your favorite websites? In the fast-evolving digital world, websites are starting to feel a little like relics of the past, like dial-up internet or those chunky CRT monitors we used to hunch over. Once, websites were the gateway to everything—from news and shopping to staying connected with friends. Now? There’s an app for
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Is there an age or year of your life you would re-live? When I look back at my life, I don’t think there’s a particular age or year I’d want to re-live entirely. I’m content with the path I’ve walked and how things have unfolded. Life has been filled with lessons, good memories, and, inevitably,
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By Mohamed Miah In an era where human ingenuity seems boundless, where quantum computers promise to unlock the mysteries of the universe, we are confronted with a profound truth: no matter how far technology advances, it will never match the beauty, complexity, and infinite wisdom of God. The more we discover, the more we are
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What historical event fascinates you the most? When it comes to history, there’s something uniquely compelling about the lives of the prophets, particularly Muhammad (SAW). They weren’t just figures of faith; they were real people with lives filled with challenges, moments of profound wisdom, and lessons that continue to resonate through time. Reflecting on their
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What’s something you believe everyone should know. In a world that’s constantly buzzing, where our days are filled with endless lists, tasks, and expectations, how often do we stop and think? Not about what we have to do next, or what we’re missing, but about something deeper—something beyond ourselves. I believe everyone should take the
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What does it mean to be a kid at heart? For me, being a kid at heart isn’t about ignoring the realities of adulthood or shrugging off responsibilities; it’s about finding ways to connect with my children and go into their world, even if just for a little while. It means being able to laugh,
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You have three magic genie wishes, what are you asking for? If someone asked me what I’d wish for with a genie’s three wishes, my answer might surprise them. I don’t believe in asking a genie, a jinn, or any supernatural being for something. When I need guidance, strength, or a change in this world,
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Describe a family member. When I think of resilience, I think of my mother. A quiet woman, soft-spoken and humble, she has spent more than 40 years in the UK yet remains a stranger to the English language and the nuances of British culture. Not because she didn’t try, but because society, with its often
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What is your favorite form of physical exercise? None
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How much would you pay to go to the moon? Let’s cut to the chase: how much would I pay to go to the moon? Absolutely nothing. That’s right, zilch, nada, not even a single penny. And before you start wondering if I’ve lost my sense of adventure or if I secretly have a fear
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What alternative career paths have you considered or are interested in? In today’s world, we’re bombarded with ideas about changing careers, following your “true passion,” or becoming your own boss. But for many of us, the reality is much more grounded—changing careers after 25 isn’t easy, and once you hit 30 or 35, it becomes
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What food would you say is your specialty? If you asked me what food I’d say is my speciality, I’d probably take a moment to pause—not because I don’t know, but because it’s hard to choose just one. Cooking has always been an evolving journey for me, from my younger days of junk food indulgence
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What major historical events do you remember? There’s something strange about memory—how the bad moments tend to leave a deeper imprint than the good. It’s as if the darker chapters of our history or personal lives stick with us, etched into our minds more sharply than the victories and joys. My memories are no different;
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What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to? Taking risks is part of life—some we take on instinct, others after careful thought. And then there are those risks we dream about but, for one reason or another, never fully commit to. When I reflect on the biggest risk I’d
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What are you most proud of in your life? As I reflect on what I’m most proud of in my life, it’s not just one singular moment or achievement that stands out. It’s a collection of experiences, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped me into who I am today. And the one that rises above
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What have you been working on? It’s been a whirlwind of creativity, reflection, and research lately, and I’m excited to share what I’ve been working on. Writing has always been my outlet—a way to process my thoughts and ideas, and this time, it’s no different. Each new project I dive into opens up fresh possibilities,
The Narratives - Mohamed Miah 