Honouring Fethullah Gülen: His True Legacy is People

Hocaefendi, Fethullah Gülen, has passed away, and with his passing, the world has lost a beacon of wisdom, compassion, and understanding. As one of his proud followers, I feel an immense sense of loss but also a deep gratitude for the legacy he left behind—a legacy that continues to shape not just my life but the lives of thousands around the world.

In a world often marked by misunderstandings, conflicts, and misconceptions about faith, Hocaefendi stood as a testament to the true face of Islam—a face of peace, service, and education. He dedicated his life to showcasing the values of empathy, intellectual growth, and social harmony. He inspired countless individuals, regardless of their faith, to serve humanity through meaningful work in schools, universities, hospitals, or media organisations. He built bridges where others sought to build walls, and he opened minds where others sought to close them.

I met Hocaefendi twice in my life, and those moments have stayed with me forever. His gentle demeanour and his unwavering belief in the potential of every individual touched me deeply. It was because of him that I made the decision to become a teacher, and it is because of his influence that I continue to dedicate my life to education. He showed me that being a teacher is more than just a profession—it is a lifelong commitment to shaping the future and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

What truly stands out about Hocaefendi's legacy is not just the institutions he inspired but the countless lives he touched. The real power of his work was in the way he transformed individuals—how he gave people hope, purpose, and a sense of belonging. He made each of us believe that we had the power to make a difference, no matter how small. He showed us that the most meaningful change starts with the human heart and that the greatest service we can offer is to uplift those around us.

Hocaefendi's vision led to the creation of schools that empower young minds, hospitals that heal bodies, and initiatives that foster dialogue between cultures and beliefs. But beyond these institutions, his legacy lives on in the kindness people show one another, in the courage to stand up for what is right, and in the desire to make the world a better place. He showed us that education is a powerful tool for transformation and that service to humanity is the greatest way to express our faith.

Though he may no longer be with us physically, his spirit and his vision live on in the hearts of all of us who were touched by his life. We, his followers, remain committed to continuing his work—to serve humanity, to promote understanding, and to work tirelessly for a better world. His legacy is not about the buildings or the organisations but about the people he inspired, the lives he transformed, and the love he spread. It is now our responsibility to carry forward his message, to be the embodiment of his teachings, and to continue building the world he dreamed of—a world where love, understanding, and service are at the heart of everything we do.

His impact went far beyond any one group or community; it touched everyone who had the chance to know him, regardless of their background, faith, or belief—except perhaps those whose personal grudges or agenda prevented them from seeing the truth of his character. Hocaefendi's influence lives on every student taught, every life touched, and every bridge built in the name of understanding and peace.

May his soul rest in peace,Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un, and may his vision continue to inspire us all.