abu sufyan

one person that never struck me the way anybody else before has throughout my experience in NTU is abu sufyan. i first got acquainted with him when i was asked to help out with venatoris as a camp coordinator.

first impressions really differ from what you will eventually get to know about that person.

i remembered that day, when he spoke to us for the first time as chairperson. i did not take to his style immediately. he was assertive and aggressive, and spoke with a no holds barred attitude. he set the tone for the meetings to come, 'cos we were all new to each other, but what i got was that it was not going to be an easy ride. he seemed at that time, aloof and uncompromising.

but i never expected that to eventually bloom into a most dear friendship.

as we went along, through kembara, through the meetings that we had, and through the sharing sessions, i realise that my judgement was indeed way skewed. in fact i grew to accept him and embrace his ways as one utterly unique from that of the others i know.

abu, as a leader, made no compromise towards the quality of work of his team members. abu, as a thinker, contributed measures not conventionally taken, but just as effective or more so. abu, as a team player, ensured the welfare and undying support of his team. abu, as a muslim, realised the importance of subtlety, and worked with a special hidayah that to me, is such a valuable gift of insight from God to him. abu, as a friend, always trusted the capabilities and strengths of his peers and covered up their weaknesses. abu, as a person, knew what should be done and what had to be done, and made sure that it was done, even if it meant that in the process, some people may be slighted.

behind that facade of coolness and apparent disdain, there lay a truly noble, concerned and aware soul. one whose ways were not always accepted, and therefore misunderstood. one whose efforts and sacrifices sometimes seemed under-appreciated, and therefore feels a sense of disappointment.

but truly still, a very aware soul.

it saddens me that only now, when i leave NTU, that i begin to learn of his character. i would have loved to be with him more, and to learn of him better. i hope i still can.

i am honoured and proud that i can count him among my dearest friends. I never expected such a deep attachment to form, but i am gladdened. He will always have that place of respect and pride in my psyche.

Let his voice be heard, and guide those that need guidance back to the Middle Path. Let his heart be healed, and steeled, to face the challenges ahead of him together with his peers. Let his spirit soar, with the rest upon whom the future lies. And let them achieve success as one, and as one, blessed be.