Seeking Guidance and Du'a in These Blessed Nights
Assalamu alaikum, everyone. During these holy nights, I just want to ask for some advice and for your prayers. I'm currently a university student. My family has been facing financial struggles for as long as I can remember, but lately, it's gotten even tougher. I feel especially responsible because I'm the most educated person in the family. My father-may Allah bless him-didn't exert much effort in the past, and we relied a lot on loans, and now it's all coming due. When we were younger, it didn't seem like a big deal, but now I worry about my siblings, and my dad still doesn't seem urgent, saying that Allah will provide. And truly, Allah does provide, but we have to hold up our bowl-meaning we must strive first and then trust in Him. Now, my uncle is suggesting we give up our house for him to rent out and move back to our home country, which is war-torn, so the rent money can support us there. I really don't want to go, and neither do my sisters. They couldn't pursue their studies because we come from a very strict and conservative background. I'm at a loss for what to do. I've tried looking for jobs, but I've had some really uncomfortable experiences in interviews, where men saw my age and desperation and made unwelcome advances. I fought hard to get into university, and now I feel helpless when my family needs me the most. My grades are good, so I'd even be happy with a full-time job, but nothing seems to work out. My dad doesn't even know I'm job hunting. I've also tried online work, like illustrating children's books, and made a little money, but then luck ran out. I've tutored kids too, but it's not making a real difference. I feel so lost. Please, keep me in your du'a and share any advice you might have.