I met Rubina Nafees Fatima too late in life. My loss entirely.

The quiet dignity, steel-like strength, complete conviction in her chosen path and a value system based on faith and goodness. So many things about her that inspire me.  As I got to know her better, my intrigue only increased, along with complete awe of how she had altered her own comfortable life to such a vast degree with the sole ambition of serving those who needed attention.  

We are trustees of the privilege we receive.  We have a duty as human beings to serve beyond our immediate family.

Some words I’d often heard took new meaning as I understood Rubina more and more.  Trusteeship, service, fairness, responsibility.  The full extent of these words came to me through her. 

Rubina’s story begins and grows on the desire of a just and fair society.  It’s a story of an ordinary life making extraordinary choices.  A story that seems like any of ours to begin with, following the expected path, fulfilling societal expectations, discharging her duties to the best of her abilities.  But then it becomes a beautiful example of forging her own way, honouring her calling, pursuing her mission entirely against the norm, something very few of us have the courage for.