Introduction: Creating our Space

My altar is a very personal representation of me, who I am, what's made me strong, my influences, and, I was also able to include the four elements: earth, wind, fire and water. This is my altar:

• My spiritual influence and guide is my faith. I find beauty in Islam, in its recognition and respect for all the Abrahamic traditions. It is the last revelation and it honors, recognizes and embraces the teachings of all the great Prophets, may peace be upon them all.
  
• My mother is my earth. I come from her and I go back to her when I die. So significant to me is the rose shaped candle holder in the front. Hand made by my mother from the earth (clay), fired by her and holding fire. My spiritual leader, my supporter, my source of never never ending love.
• The white patterned box cover on the left is a modern-day interpretation of the art of my heritage - Islamic Art, art from India, beautiful forms, geometric shapes - all inlaid with mother of pearl - a material of the earth.
• The stone, also of the earth is a recent addition to my life. The word "belief" engraved on it, given to me by a soul sister inspiring me to believe in myself because she knew "I could". The butterflies is the connection to air, controlled in it and beautiful because of it.
  
• The water in the low wide vessel, it was the shape of the vessel and not the material that moved me. I don't know why I chose to color the water green - perhaps I'll find out on this journey.
• The statue - my strength, my fortitude. Awarded to me by an employer for exceptional performance, beyond expectations and breaking every record in the history of the company - a plastic man with a special past!
• Finally, the newest addition to my special influences - my certificate of completion for my white belt training in Nia - a movement practice that reconnected me to my body and my life.

Let the journey begin!