Right after Amr and I were married, the "Are you pregnant?" questions began flooding in from everyone we ran into: family, friends, distant acquaintances (Egyptians can be especially intrusive on this issue).

Once Amr and I were out together and he ran into an old friend who asked if I was pregnant. Amr stuck out his own stomach, patted it, and said, "We've actually decided that I will carry our first child." His friend laughed nervously and never asked that question again.

That became Amr's standard response.

When I remember that day (and every day with Amr) I am always reminded of what Allah (swt) says about spouses:

"...They are your garments and you are their garments..." (2:187)

Out of love and respect for me, Amr chose to deflect the questions that he knew might bother me. He protected me like clothing protects us from the elements. He hid my faults. He shielded me. He was a source of ease and comfort for me.

Then he was suddenly gone and that garment fell away. I felt exposed and unprotected, like the whole world would be able to see right through me. My heart and my faults were out in the open for all to see. I felt like that for a long time.

Then I recently came upon this verse:

"O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness—that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember" (7:26).

Allah (swt) says that the "clothing" of taqwa is the best of all clothing. The protection, closeness, and covering of a spouse may disintegrate over time or forcefully be pulled away from us, but we will always have access to the greatest garment of all: consciousness of Allah.

Striving to attain Allah's pleasure by simultaneously hoping in His mercy, fearing His punishment, and loving Him is the greatest protection and comfort that can ever be achieved.

He will hide our faults like clothing hides the blemishes on our skin. He will beautify us like beautiful clothing enhances our appearance. He will protect us like clothing protects us from the harsh elements.

I have spent so long yearning for my garment that was forcefully pulled from me. Now I know there's a better garment to replace the one I lost. I just have to consciously put it on.

From A Temporary Gift: Reflections on Love, Loss, and Healing....!