“Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim Alhamdulilah — all praise and thanks belong to Allah, the Most Merciful, Who protected us through the storm. Ameen.”

Bermuda has once again been tested by the forces of nature. Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda swept across our island with their fury, as my cousin Laverne pointed out, just how wonderful nature is; reminding us of both the beauty and the power of creation.

In the aftermath, as the winds subsided and the seas returned to their natural rhythm, we are left to reflect on what it means to endure, to rebuild, and to be grateful.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, captured this spirit best when he stated: “Bermuda has weathered many storms, and we will weather this one too. Let our strength be in our unity, our safety in our preparation, and our hope in the calm that always follows the storm.”

These words resonate deeply with a community that has faced hurricanes before and understands that survival depends not only on physical readiness but also on the collective bond that ties us together.

From an Islamic perspective, storms such as Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda are reminders of the might of Allah, the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth. The Koran tells us: “And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it.” (Surah Al-An’am 6:59). These words remind us that the unfolding of nature is never random — it is by God’s will and decree.

In moments when we stand helpless before the elements, we are reminded of our human limitations. No wealth, strength, or technology can fully shield us from the power of a hurricane. The crashing waves, the bending trees, and the howling winds show us how small we are in the face of creation. Yet within this humility lies an opportunity — to turn our hearts to God, to seek His mercy, and to pray for His protection.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) himself would supplicate during storms, seeking safety and placing trust in Allah. Likewise, in Bermuda, many humbled themselves in prayer before and during both Humberto and Imelda’s passing, asking for shelter, security, and the wellbeing of loved ones. And when the storm lifted, gratitude filled our hearts.

Prayers of thanks are due to the Almighty for sparing lives and allowing the island to emerge once more. We pray: “Alhamdulillah (all praise is due to God) for His protection, for the roof over our heads, for the neighbours who looked out for one another, and for the strength to carry on.”

However, Allah reminds us that we cannot thank Him until we have thanked the people.

With this in heart, we extend our deepest thanks to the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO), work crews, Works & Engineering, the Bermuda Police Service, Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service, and the Royal Bermuda Regiment. Their tireless efforts in preparation, standing on post, and assisting with clean-up and restoration were invaluable. May Allah bless them for their courage and dedication.

We also acknowledge the countless unseen efforts: neighbours checking in, volunteers clearing roads, and offering support. Each contribution, no matter how small, strengthened our community and reflected the spirit of service Allah loves.

Hurricanes Humberto and Almeldia have underscored two truths: the fragility of human life and the resilience of the Bermudian spirit. Together, these truths guide us forward. We prepare as best we can, but ultimately, we place our trust in God, who brings both the storm and the calm that follows.

As we clean debris, mend homes, and comfort children who feared the winds, let us also repair our bonds with one another. May our unity be stronger than the gales that threatened us, and may our prayers continue to rise, filled with gratitude for life, for mercy, and for the promise of new beginnings after every storm.

Hurricane Humberto may have been chased away, but Hurricane Imelda had the nerve to think she would make her presence known. Yet Alhamdulilah, Allah had the final say and commanded the storms away, sparing us from devastation.

The experience reminded us of both our vulnerability and our strength. It highlighted the importance of preparation, the power of human courage, and the blessings of unity and compassion. In the aftermath, the island came together, neighbours assisted neighbours, and volunteers worked alongside official crews to restore normalcy.

These storms are a reminder to pause and reflect, to thank Allah for His mercy, and to recognise those He uses as instruments of His protection. May this experience inspire continued service, strengthen community bonds, and deepen our gratitude — for the people who stepped forward, and for the divine care that surrounds us each day.

Subhanallah (glory be to God)! Allah had the final say. And may we always remember to thank the hands He guides, for in them, His mercy is made manifest.

Bermuda, continue to pray for those less fortunate than us. Pray for relief from tyranny and natural disasters around the globe; remembering always: “There but for the grace of God go I.”

Have a blessed and purposeful week.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam