The morning of March 24th, 2015 was difficult on me. Imam Salihohu Djabbi; Imam and founder of Masjid Imam Ali in Brooklyn, Imam at the GMDC-C73 facility at Riker’s Island Prison Complex, and Amir of the Council of African Imams of New York City died after a four year battle with ALS. I knew Imam Salihou’s passing would not be far; the last time I visited him, he didn’t look well. Watching his health deteriorate was heartbreaking, Yet throughout it all, he never lost his faith, nor his good humor.

And now, Allah called him home. He made it; and we’re still here, asleep and dreaming our dark dreams. 

Imam Salihou  was a man of great spiritual attainment. Sitting with him, one shared in his blessings, and learned some very deep lessons. He was a wise and kind man whom I learned a great deal from. I worked with him for many years at the C73 building at Riker’s Island, and I can never forget how he always went out of his way to place me in a position of honor and status (which I was always worried about how I merited this).

But one thing I fear may be lost among the statements shared about him was his great sense of humor. He was a lot of fun and would often share a good joke! Once, when I bought a sarangi, he asked me why I did that. I told him I found one for a good price. He said “Man, there must be something wrong with you!” I laughed until I could barely breath. He and I shared many light hearted moments.   He was a friend and teacher; a man of immense spiritual knowledge and authority who commanded great respect, and who was nonetheless humble, charitable, and filled with love and good humor.

I salute him, and thank Allah for his life.