A GLINT ETHOSMAGAZINE
ENGLISHANDTRANSLATION DEPARTMENT
COLLEGEOF HUMANITIES EFFAT UNIVERSITY
AUGUST2024
CONTRIBUTORS
SUPERVISOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DR. LINDA F. MALOUL LULWA ALBUAINAIN
VICE EDITOR
LAMA ALRAJHI
EDITORS
MARIAM SALEM
DEEMA ALGHAMDI
SIREEN HAMDAN
MALAK ZURAYQ
CONTRIBUTORS
ARWA ABU RUB
JINAAN JAVEED
LULWA ALBUAINAIN
ABDULLAH SALMAN
FARAH BELADEL
MARYAM ABACHA
ROFAN ALDOSSARY
SUMAYYAH YUSUF
MARAM ALSHEIKH
MARIAM SALEM
SIREEN HAMDAN
ALANOUD ALSUAD
DHAI ALGHAMDI
HANA ABBAS
ETHOS
FROM THE DEAN
Dr.LindaMaloul
College Dean & EThos Supervisor
Dear Readers,
I am thrilled to announce the release of our 20th issue, titled "A Glint of Hope." This milestone edition is a tribute to the resilience that defines our times. Inside, you'll find thoughtprovoking articles, beautiful poetry, and much more that celebrates the small but significant sparks of hope that light our way forward.
A special thank you goes out to our dedicated Editor-in-Chief, Lulwa Albuainain, the Vice editor, Lama Alrajhi, all the editors and talented contributors Your hard work, creativity, and unwavering commitment have made this issue truly exceptional It is your collective effort that continues to elevate our magazine
Thank you all for your continued support and enthusiasm Here's to many more issues filled with the same spirit of positivity and insight!
FROM THE EDITORIN-CHIEF
There exists a concept, “the Indomitable Human Spirit”, that puts to words the ceaseless perseverance of humans despite everything. We cling onto hope unlike anything because hope, while mercurial and fluctuant, clings to us, too However little we have left of it, there’s always a bit left
One after the other, personal or collective, simply inconvenient or downright paralyzing, life will not be without its hardships Nevertheless, we persist Because we are human, we persist This is what the editorial team behind Effat University’s EThos Magazine hopes to bring to light
I am honored to have been Editor-in-Chief of the 20th issue of EThos Magazine: “A Glint of Hope”, and even moreso to have worked with the editorial team: Lama Alrajhi, our incredible Vice Editor, as well as Deema Alghamdi, Malak Zurayq, Mariam Salem, and Sireen Hamdan, our hardworking editors.
I cannot begin to express my gratitude and appreciation for Dr. Linda Maloul, the Dean of Effat College of Humanities and EThos Magazine’s supervisor. Without the members of this team, and without the unrelenting hope brimming within each and every one of them, this issue would not have come to be.
Lastly, I’d love to thank each contributor who has offered to share their work with us. You are all tremendously talented. Through your poetry, prose, reflections, and art, we have attempted to illustrate the indomitable human spirit our unwavering hope that we will get through difficulty and witness the dawn of a better day; I like to think that this attempt is a successful one (thanks to you, of course)
On behalf of the EThos editorial team, we hope you enjoy this year’s issue, and that, by reading the works of your peers, you are reminded of your unshakeable resolve and the indomitability of your spirit Stay hopeful
OPINION ARTICLES
01
FINDING HOPE IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY
BYARWAABURUB
In times of hardship, it can be easy to lose sight of hope Whether we face personal challenges or witness turmoil in the world around us, it's natural to feel overwhelmed and disheartened. However, amid the darkness, there is always a glint of hope waiting to be discovered.
Hope is not just a fleeting emotion; it's a powerful force that propels us forward, even when the odds seem stacked against us It is the belief that better days are ahead, that challenges can be overcome, and that we have the strength within us to persevere.
One of the most remarkable aspects of hope is its ability to emerge from the most unlikely of places. It can be found in the resilience of communities coming together in the face of disaster, in the kindness of strangers offering support to those in need, and in the unwavering determination of individuals to create positive change
Personal experiences of hope are just as transformative. Whether it's overcoming a difficult illness, achieving a long-held goal, or finding solace in the love and support of friends and family, these moments of hope remind us of our own resilience and capacity for growth.
But hope is not passive, it requires action It's not enough to simply wish for a better tomorrow, we must actively work towards it. This means advocating for justice, supporting those in need, and striving to make a positive impact in our communities and the world at large.
In the midst of uncertainty and hopelessness, it can be tempting to succumb to cynicism and despair However, it is precisely in these moments that we must cling to hope with all our might; for it is hope that lights the way forward, guiding us through the darkest of times and leading us towards a brighter future.
So let us embrace hope as our guiding light, even in the face of adversity. Let us believe in the possibility of a better world, and let us work tirelessly to make that vision a reality
A GLINT OF HOPE BYJINAANJAVEED
The first thing I think of when I try to explore the word ‘hope’ is that it is dangerous. It can bridge a connection between illness and health, poverty and wealth, and failure and success. However, the very foundation of the bridge is delusion. Because of a ridiculous hope, someone steps on the bridge with all their weight only for it to immediately give away and drop them into an ocean of humiliation and failure. That ocean is Reality with a capital R.
I think I, like most people, have had both negative and positive experiences with hope. It’s gifted me success, it’s gifted me embarrassment, it’s gifted me a reality beyond my expectations, it’s also gifted me the kind of failure that comes glued to guilt because I let delusion or “hope” guide me to overconfidence It can be a drug, it can be a drive
Over time, I’ve learned to choose which hopes I should build on, and which ones I should acknowledge but not do anything about until my heart grows tired of it. Hope, just like every other thing in life, must be balanced. Everything should be approached with hope and done with resilience. If we’re not careful, hope can be the loyal pet that stays glued to us for as long as life itself before suddenly disappearing as soon as we reach a dead end
And if we are careful? A drop of hope becomes a puddle of motivation, then a pond of initiation, turned into a lake of dedication and eventually, an ocean that is Reality with a capital R.
THE NATURE OF HOPE BYLULWAALBUAINAIN
I have come to believe that the nature of hope is ever flickering, yet never fading Hope does not budge; it does not waver that is neither good nor bad.
Hope is neutral. Hope is both a timeless, glistening rose to behold and a malevolent thorn in one’s side. Hope is a saint to those in their darkest hours and a haze to those in need of stark certainty
There has been a time when hope served in my demise. Hope has, indeed, been the death of me a version of me, at the very least, that brimmed with naivety and whose death was much overdue.
Much as it brought me decay, hope is the essence of my new life Reborn, now, with an unyielding resolve to press on and keep pressing on Hope fuels this version of my existence that, in my belief, will blaze her name onto this world.
I hope that is the case.
02 POETRY
BYABDULLAHSALMAN
As the heavy rain pours down on the ground, the thunder rumbles with a loud sound. As the dark clouds gather up high, the lightning illuminates the sky. As the raging winds blow, the trees fiercely shake.
As the storm rages, fear is instilled in the hearts of many. As gloominess engulfs the village, no one knows how or when they will die
But suddenly, as the rains cease, the gloominess slowly fades away. As light triumphs over darkness, the people of the village are filled with awe and hope. After the weather has become sunny, many fruits and vegetables have blossomed for harvest.
As the villagers gather at the trees and fields, they collect the yields. So, remember, no matter how dark or gloomy matters become, there is always a beacon of shining light. Never can light fully relinquish darkness, nor can darkness fully triumph over light. Even though there is sadness, no matter what, there is always happiness.
FLOWER IN THE SNOW
BYFARAHBELADEL
In the cold weather of life
A flower blooms after a period of strife
To climb the highest mountains is hard However, those who don’t spend their life in a yard.
What beauty does life have if it was easy all the time?
Despair and hope are not opposites but the same side of a coin
They often separate and then rejoin Throughout our journey of climbing to our prime.
Hope is like a flower that doesn’t easily bloom. It has to go through pain, deception and life’s gloom. But once it blossoms, more than any flower, it glows Hope is a flower that blooms in the snow
So, keep the flower alive
Keep on fighting, keep on thriving, you must survive. For snow freezes but never kills the strong. Prove to everyone, that flowers in snow belong
CAN I WASH YOUR HAIR?
BYLULWAALBUAINAIN
Can I wash your hair? I promise to be gentle and keep the water and suds from your eyes because I know how much it bothers you
I’ll run you a bubble bath with all your favorite toys; I’ll be there all the while, making sure you’re safe and sound
You’re just a kid, you know You’re not to blame You’re as kind as you’re taught to be You behave the way you’re encouraged to
All you needed was their love, and some patience to go along with it You’re just a kid, you know
The water scares you, the stinging of soap in your eye It hurts. It really, really hurts You don’t want to hurt
So let me wash your hair, my dear I promise to be gentle, because you’re just a kid Now I know
HOPE
BYMARYAMABACHA
In the desolate dusk where shadows creep, A glint of hope awakens from sleep. A twinkle of light from the depths below, Guiding lost souls through the ebb and flow.
Hope.
The glint, a beacon in the night's embrace, Whispers promises of hope and grace. In trials dire, it tests our might, To grasp its glow, to hold it tight.
A star!
So let it shimmer, although so far, this glint so fair, In life's tumultuous affair. In its flicker, we find our hope, To journey onward, and follow our trope.
A SWORD THAT CUTS
BYROFANALDOSSARY
Meant to endure pain enough to be reminded that choice and hope are tools either to be used to beat agony or to be abandoned, so that we may beat ourselves alongside the pain
But we grow from it If we choose to learn Hope, is a sword that cuts Through the fog of uncertainty.
TRAGEDY
BYLULWAALBUAINAIN
My anger is a crutch
I’m not yet grown enough to spare you my sympathy Instead you have become the antagonist of my story
I roil at how we left things off I rage at how it all went wrong I spit at your past sentiments that proved false; your past promises that went unfulfilled Dramatic irony riddles our memories
Everyone I know has heard your name I can’t help but curse it any chance I get I tell our story over and over with no spared dramatics They watch as I narrate the crash and burn of a promised lifetime
I am numbed by the theatrics much like a comedian who no longer laughs at their jokes
I have no more tears to shed, only a tragedy to retell of a hero struck from above; A love turned sour, daggers drawn at necks where lips were before
I will brandish my scars for as long as they hurt Your name will ever burn at the tip of my tongue You were always my muse, after all
My anger is a crutch
It is my script, my voice, my set
My heart is my stage with yet another play to play and replay and replay
Take a bow.
A FOUR-LETTER WORD
BYSUMAYYAHYUSUF
7 months
30 weeks
212 days
That is how long it has been since I smiled The world crashed around me yet people still tell me to be patient “Have hope,” they say But what is hope if not another four-letter word for lies? My people die Yet “have hope” is what the world screams at me
75 years
4 months
27,515 days since the war on my people began I grew up in a war zone I refuse to make the war a home So, I have hope I carry on.
I can’t cope So, I listen, and I hope I pray and I wait Surely there’s more I can do Instead of waiting to be a martyr I could be smarter, Fight harder
Make myself stronger, Be less of a bother
Hope, the last words I see before I'm gone
A poster my late mother hung above the chair She had hope, she was strong, yet she had gone I have hope, I'm strong, and I mourn As the bomb drops
Like raindrops
I still have hope Hope,
PAST YOU
BY LULWA ALBUAINAIN
Past you are new horizons, and stormy eves, and fresh new leaves
Past you are loves aplenty, heartbreaks galore, and so much more
Past you I’ll be content, and teary-eyed, and grinning wide
Past you I’ll find myself; once lost in you, I’m now anew
It’s past you where I’ll have to be, however tempting it is to stay I’ll shed your darkest winter nights and welcome in a summer day
Step aside, it’s time I make it past you.
03
REVIEWS
INTERSTELLAR
BYMARIAMSALEM
Interstellar is a 2014 movie directed by Christopher Nolan It is set in an apocalyptic future where sandstorms have obliterated all of Earth’s crops. The government later discovered another habitable planet on which mankind could reside. They sent out a team of astronauts who would face difficulties entering through dangerous wormholes in search of a new planet
As for the production, it leaves you on the edge of your seat as the visuals and the sound effects look completely realistic and not too far-fetched. It captures the perfect balance between nature and space The movie was long, though not uninteresting in any way; it purposely took its time gradually.
Another strong element about this film is its acting. The lead actor, Matthew McConaughey, played one of the courageous astronauts who were chosen for the mission
He managed to portray a variety of different emotions throughout the movie which made it even more intriguing Other than its booming visuals and incredible screen play, Interstellar also teaches its audience about the consequences that Earth might face in the next years.
In conclusion, Christopher Nolan excellently approached this Sci-Fi movie in his direction; it was not too complex, nor unrealistic, but at the same time met the expectations of a science fiction movie perfectly.
THE LORD OF THE RINGS
BYMARAMALSHEIKH
“How could the world go back to the way it was when so much bad had happened? But in the end, it’s only a passing thing, this shadow Even darkness must pass.”
In the second part of Peter Jackson’s epic trilogy, The Lord of the Rings, the heroes of our story continue to fight the evil Dark Lord Sauron. Sam (Sean Astin) and Frodo (Elijah Wood) take on the perilous quest of carrying the evil ring to Mount Doom, where it should be destroyed. This task heavily affects the pair, especially Frodo. As Frodo starts to lose hope, his friend Sam begins to reassure him and remind him of the things in life that are worth fighting for: friendship, love, and home This adaptation of J R R Tolkien’s book series not only succeeds in bringing the fabulous tale of the One Ring to life, but also accurately depicts the pain and despair that come with war and evil. But we must always remember that “there’s some good in this world and it’s worth fighting for ”
Peter Jackson does a phenomenal job in his adaptation by appealing to the audience’s emotions and adding some of the most gripping visual effects. The Lord of The Rings trilogy went on to become one of the most commercially successful movie trilogies in film history, and it fully deserves all the recognition it received. The Lord of the Rings is a story of hope, courage, and determination
MY NAME IS KHAN
BYABDULLAHSALMAN
My Name Is Khan is a social drama film that revolves around Rizwan Khan, an Indian Muslim man with Asperger's Syndrome whose neurodivergence, encounters with islamophobia, and relationship with his loved ones proves as a remarkable tale.
Back in Mumbai, Rizwan’s struggle with social skills and sensory issues sets him apart from his peers, but despite this, he proves to be a skilled mechanic.
Years later, after his mother’s passing, Rizwan immigrates to America and begins working in his brother’s company specializing in the selling of beauty products. There, Zakir’s wife Hasina, a psychology professor at Brooklyn University, diagnoses Rizwan with Asperger’s Syndrome.
While working for his brother, Rizwan meets Mandira Rathod, a single mom and beauty specialist. Despite Zakir’s disapproval of their union, Rizwan and Mandira fall in love and marry.
Rizwan and Mandira go on to face many difficulties and hardships, yet despite everything, Rizwan undertakes each struggle with unwavering resolve and determination.
This film gave me a lot of hope, as I can relate to the main character in many ways. Like him, I am also of South Asian descent and autistic I also have lived in America as a Muslim I know what Islamophobia is like.
Due to my neurodivergence, I developed the ability to speak much later than most, but by Allah's grace, I began to speak by the age of 7 I also managed to make a few friends in my life
Rizwan also stayed back with his mother while his brother went on to live independently. My siblings, who are younger than me, are also living independently similar to Zakir
Also, similarly to Rizwan’s relationship with Zakir, my sister played a huge role in developing my social skills, supporting me in my academics, and by being a great emotional support for me whenever I was having a hard time adapting to different kinds of social scenarios. Without her, I wouldn't have been able to make this far This is by God’s grace
This is by God's grace This film showed me that it is not always the end of the world if one loses something. Patience and hard work can help along with trust in Allah. Rizwan didn't completely lose hope, working, instead, with a clear goal in mind to achieve his goals. Autism doesn't hold me back in trying to achieve my goals and pursue my passions
There is always light; it never gets entirely relinquished by darkness.
THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS
BYARWAABURUB
MIn the film The Pursuit of Happyness, directed by Gabriele Muccino, Will Smith delivers a powerful performance alongside his real-life son, Jaden Smith. Based on a true story, the movie follows the journey of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who faces numerous challenges as he strives to build a better life for himself and his son.
Set in San Francisco in the early 1980s, the film portrays Chris Gardner's journey from homelessness to success. After investing his savings into a bone density scanner device, Chris struggles to sell the product and provide for his family. As financial troubles mount, Chris and his son find themselves living on the streets, facing eviction, and navigating the challenges of homelessness.
Despite the obstacles, Chris remains determined to pursue his dream of a better life Through sheer grit and perseverance, he lands an unpaid internship at a prestigious brokerage firm. With his son by his side, Chris navigates the competitive world of finance, working tirelessly to prove himself and secure a brighter future he Pursuit of Happyness is a poignant and inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and the power of hope.
TWill Smith delivers a captivating performance, portraying Chris Gardner's struggles and triumphs with depth and authenticity. His chemistry with his son, played by Jaden Smith, adds emotional depth to the film, highlighting the importance of family and perseverance in the face of adversity
The film's portrayal of homelessness is raw and unflinching, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by those experiencing poverty. However, it also offers a message of hope, showing that with hard work, resilience, and a positive mindset, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
The Pursuit of Happyness reminds viewers that success is not defined by material wealth, but by the strength of character and the willingness to never give up Chris Gardner's journey serves as a testament to the human spirit, inspiring audiences to pursue their dreams despite the odds. It is a heartwarming and uplifting film that leaves a lasting impact. With its powerful performances, compelling storyline, and messages of resilience and hope, it is a mustwatch for anyone in need of inspiration and motivation.
PROSE 04
THE LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS
BYARWAABURUB
In the midst of a world cloaked in shadows, there was a glimmer of light that refused to be extinguished. It flickered, sometimes dimming, but never vanishing entirely. This light was hope.
Amid the chaos of uncertainty and despair, Sarah found solace in the simplest of things a warm cup of tea, a gentle breeze through her window, the laughter of children playing in the street. These small moments, though fleeting, were beacons of hope in her otherwise dark world.
One particularly gloomy day, as rain poured relentlessly outside, Sarah sat by her window, lost in thought She watched as droplets raced down the glass, blurring the world beyond It was in this moment of quiet reflection that she realized the true power of hope.
With newfound determination, Sarah set out to spread hope to those around her. She volunteered at a local shelter, offering comfort and support to those in need. She wrote letters of encouragement to friends and strangers alike, reminding them that brighter days were ahead And she shared her own story of overcoming adversity, proving that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glint of hope to guide us forward.
As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Sarah's light grew stronger. It illuminated the hearts of those she touched, inspiring them to find hope in their own lives. And though the world may still be shrouded in darkness, Sarah's light continues to shine, a beacon of hope for all who seek it
THE GLOOMY WOODS
BYSIREENHAMDAN
No one dared to step into the Gloomy Woods, but they were the subject of gossip for the people of my village, day after day. Some said an evil witch lived there, while others spoke of the god of the forest who would curse anyone who disrespected him and stepped into his borders - he would turn them into apes.
I was curious to know about these woods. Every day I thought of exploring them, but I hesitated at the warnings of people. Despite that, I embarked on a journey to the woods as I was nosey and wanted to find out the mysteries of the Gloomy Woods.
On Sunday morning, I packed my things and set off to find an answer to all of the rumors surrounding the woods. They were not that far away, only taking me half an hour to reach their border, but the moment I had reached it, many thoughts began to cross my mind and the voices of the people talking about the woods played in my ears as I stepped in. I shook my head and entered with courage.
The branches of the trees were swaying due to strong wind, the cawing of the crows was loud, and the darkness of the woods was ominous. I swallowed hard and opened my eyes wide as I saw the eerie view of the woods However, that didn't deter me from exploring even further. For me, it was a mission I had to accomplish no matter what. I started to walk deeper into the woods. My feet were heavy as if something was pulling them back, and my breathing became more difficult as if a weight was sitting upon my chest. I was tired and about to pass out, and that was when I began to regret my decision. Suddenly, my vision became blurry and I fell to the ground. I could hear someone whispering, "Are you okay?" All I saw after that was darkness I remember nothing up until I opened my eyes to see the light again. A short old man with a long beard was standing and looking at me.
"Hey, are you awake? How do you feel?" He offered me a bowl of water and helped calm me down. He was surprised that someone could have ventured this far. I told him the reason for my journey and he laughed I was shocked by his reaction to my story He went on to explain everything to me.
He told me that these woods were never enchanted or anything of the sort. The reason why they were gloomy was the high-density fog that normal humans could not handle. At that moment, I felt satisfied that the mystery was finally solved, but one last thing kept me wondering: why was the old man living here? I asked him with curiosity, and he looked burdened with emotions and sadness.
"My son, " he said, "Twenty years ago, I lived in your village, a normal farmer with no special traits One day, I was wrongly accused of stealing from the mayor ' s house No one believed me, and even my wife took my 3-year-old son away and left me. During the trial, I was sentenced to exile. I walked with no hope, awaiting my fate. As I walked, I entered these woods and felt like I belonged here. I built a small cottage and settled here, where I belonged.”
I started to cry, and the old man panicked, trying to comfort me. I wanted to speak, but I could not stop crying After a while, I calmed down and was ready to share the sad truth "I am an orphan who was raised by my widowed mom, " I said. "Once I turned 15, my mom told me the story of my dad." My dad used to be a farmer, and he deeply loved us. One day, he was exiled due to a false accusation. My mom had faith that he was still alive. After my dad left the village, the thief was caught and brought to justice. However, no one could find my dad, and people thought he passed away. My poor mom lived in regret, trying to raise me to be like my dad
The old man hugged me with all his might, and we both cried together. I knew then that he was my long-lost dad. After the hug, I looked at him and said, "Welcome back, Dad."
GALLERY 05
MOZAMEL & KHARTOUM
BYALANOUDALSUAD
My name is Al-Anoud Mohammad, and I recently showcased my documentary entitled "Mozamel & Khartoum" at Hayy Jameel Cinema as well as at Effat University’s Cinematic Arts Hall. It speaks of the struggles of a Sudanese father and husband in Saudi - Mozamel - trying to help his trapped family escape the sudden declaration of war in Khartoum This is a still from a clip that did not make the final cut of the film (other angles of the same footage did). This still is where, in my film, Mozamel is finally able to contact his family again and receives the relieving news that they have made it out of Khartoum safely but are still residing in Sudan.
In my opinion, the rising of the sun and the calmness of the water symbolizes the hope for peace, both in his home country as well as his mind That, as well as the fact that he and his family's favorite pastime was to swim together, the water metaphorically binds them despite the distance, becoming another version of hope and longing to reunite again with each other.
BLOSSOMS OF HOPE
BYARWAABURUB
In this captivating image, a majestic tree stands tall, its branches adorned with a profusion of delicate blossoms in full bloom. The tree serves as a symbol of hope and resilience, its vibrant colors contrasting against the backdrop of a clear blue sky.
Beneath the tree, a person stands in awe, their face upturned toward the blossoms, their posture reflecting a sense of wonder and gratitude. In the presence of such beauty, they are reminded of the power of hope to uplift and inspire.
As viewers gaze upon this scene, they are invited to reflect on their own struggles and challenges, finding solace in the beauty of hope and the promise of better days ahead.
A WORK IN PROGRESS
The broken door frame is a powerful metaphor for progress and growth. Sometimes, like the frame under repair or waiting to be replaced, things need to be broken down before they can be rebuilt stronger and better. This signifies the necessary process of overcoming difficulties, shedding old structures or beliefs, and paving the way for new opportunities and hope
HOPEFUL HORIZONS
A GLINT OF HOPE
THE CORNICHE
BYSUMAYYAHYUSUF
“The Jeddah corniche waterfront, 6:30pm The most beautiful part of the day for me is the sunset, a symbol that the day is over and no matter what you’ve gone through that day, it ended beautifully. Hope, that if you just believe it, the next day will start just as beautiful.”
