It Was Just a Dream: The Day of Separation
**21st of March 2024: **
While preparing Suhoor, Lina's husband Ahmed shared a dream. “I had a beautiful dream,” he said. Their eldest son, Aref, eagerly asked, “Are we going to Jannah, Dad?” Ahmed recounted taking Aref, Sarah, and Abdulrahman on a journey, leaving Lina behind because he loved her so much. Though Ahmed often dreamt vividly, this dream left Lina unusually stressed out.
**24th of March 2024: **
In that day, Lina was preparing food to break their fast when Sarah approached her. “Mum, today we will travel, and we’re not taking you,” she said. Lina laughed, thinking Sarah was being playful, and hugged her, not realizing the weight of her words.
Abdulrahman, wanting to look his best, took another shower and dressed in his finest clothes. Sarah and Aref followed suit, each preparing with unusual care.
At the dinner table, Aref remarked, “Mum, I have a feeling something beautiful will happen today.” Ahmed laughed and said, “Yes, we’re going to Jannah today.”
After Maghreb prayer, Ahmed took the children to visit their grandparents while Lina stayed behind to rest. She sent cinnamon rolls with Ahmed, but Sarah insisted on leaving hers to eat with her mum later. Lina never suspected it was their final goodbye.
Within an hour, Lina received a message from Ahmed asking her to come say goodbye to his sister who was leaving Gaza. As she read the message, missiles struck. In the chaos, Lina rushed to the wreckage, where she found her family lifeless. Her husband and three children were gone.
At the hospital, Lina held and kissed her family one last time. She clung to their belongings – Ahmed’s phone, Aref’s watch, Abdulrahman’s watch, and Sarah’s earrings. These mementos, now precious beyond measure, are what she holds onto, keeping their memory alive.
Lina’s story is just one of the millions in Gaza. At Holy Land Dates, we strive to amplify these real stories as part of our commitment to supporting Palestinians. Stay tuned for our upcoming newsletter and more stories from Gaza.