Amal Al-Harbi is not just a writer and a creative mind—she is a living testament to the complexities of the human experience. Known for her sharp wit and deep introspection, Amal's journey is filled with moments of vulnerability, profound realizations, and a relentless quest for authenticity. Her recent appearance on the program "Layers" offered a rare glimpse into her multifaceted personality, showcasing not only her artistic achievements but also her internal struggles and philosophical musings.
The Duality of Amal: More Than Meets the Eye
When asked the seemingly simple question, "Who are you?" Amal responded with a depth that only someone who has delved into their own psyche could. She described herself as a human being on Earth, yet this simple answer belied the complexity beneath. She often feels divided, like a waterfall that cannot settle.
Amal candidly shared that she feels like there is a "board of directors" in her mind, each voice representing a different facet of her personality. This internal dialogue is both a gift and a challenge, as she strives to align her thoughts, actions, and words. Her journey is not about finding a single definition of herself but rather learning to live harmoniously with her many layers.
Sarcasm as a Survival Mechanism
One of Amal's defining traits is her use of sarcasm, which she describes as a "peak realism." For her, sarcasm is not merely a form of humor but a lens through which she views life. It is a way to cope with the absurdities of existence, a method to express truth with a dash of levity.
Amal believes that sarcasm is the language of an observant person. It allows her to process life’s hardships and convey profound insights with a light touch. This balance of humor and seriousness is a hallmark of her writing, where every line is infused with both wisdom and wit.
The Battle with Self-Love and Respect
Amal's struggle with self-love is one of the most poignant aspects of her story. She finds the typical advice to "love yourself" to be a hollow consolation, emphasizing instead that love is a divine gift, and respect is the foundation of true self-love.
Her approach to self-respect involves setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, and avoiding situations where she feels the need to compromise her well-being to please others. Yet, she admits that reaching this ideal state is still a work in progress. She describes her discomfort with her own reflection and the disconnection she feels when looking in the mirror.
Her honesty about this journey is powerful. It normalizes the struggle many face in truly accepting themselves and highlights the importance of respect as a building block for self-love.
A Therapeutic Journey: From Rock Bottom to Self-Realization
Amal's path to self-discovery was not a straight line. She recounted a nine-month therapeutic journey that took her away from the digital world and into a space of deep reflection. This time away was both a blessing and a challenge, providing her with the clarity to realize her talent for writing at thirty-three.
Her story of hitting rock bottom is not one of defeat but of rebirth. It is a reminder that sometimes, isolation and solitude are necessary for healing. Amal's experience emphasizes that true growth often requires stepping back from the world and confronting one's inner demons.
Procrastination: The Internal Enemy
Amal openly discussed her struggle with procrastination, humorously referring to it as an "internal enemy." Whether it's putting off taking her medication or delaying tasks until the last possible moment, she battles with the habit of avoidance.
Her approach to overcoming procrastination is both practical and philosophical. She focuses on small, consistent steps forward, even if they seem insignificant. Her belief that "putting one grain of sand every day" is progress is a testament to her resilience and her understanding that success is often built on small, incremental changes.
Helping Others: The Beauty of Selfless Giving
For Amal, helping others is a natural extension of her character. She finds joy in giving without expectation, often preferring to help without the recipient even knowing. This selflessness is rooted in a deep understanding of the human condition and the burdens of reciprocation.
Her view on helping others is a profound reminder of the beauty of altruism. By giving without recognition, Amal embodies the idea that true kindness is not about gaining anything in return but about contributing positively to the lives of those around her.
Writing as a Healing Practice
Writing is more than just a creative outlet for Amal—it is a form of therapy. She uses writing to explore her thoughts, document her feelings, and gain perspective on her experiences. This process allows her to engage in self-review, offering both clarity and forgiveness.
Her writing is not only a way to express her emotions but also a method of understanding them. Amal often writes to herself, putting her thoughts on paper to see them from a distance. This practice helps her process her emotions, analyze situations, and ultimately, find a sense of peace.
A Precious Legacy: Freedom and Independence
Amal describes her greatest legacy as an "immense wealth" of freedom. She values her independence, the ability to move through life without constraints, and the freedom to make her own choices. However, this freedom also comes with challenges, such as the temptation to fall into complacency.
Her story is a reminder that true freedom is not just about external circumstances but also about the internal strength to use that freedom wisely. Amal's journey shows that independence is both a gift and a responsibility, requiring discipline and a clear sense of purpose.
Advice to the Next Generation: Build from the Ground Up
Amal's advice to future generations is rooted in humility and practicality. She encourages young people to respect where they are in life, to build a solid foundation, and to avoid the trap of entitlement. Her message is about perseverance, patience, and the importance of taking small steps towards a larger goal.
Her philosophy is a powerful reminder that success is not about grand gestures but about the consistent effort put in every day. By focusing on the present and building slowly, Amal believes that anyone can create a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Conclusion: The Many Faces of Amal Al-Harbi
Amal Al-Harbi's story is a beautiful tapestry of contradictions and truths. She is both serious and sarcastic, deeply reflective yet often playful, a giver who also struggles to receive. Her life is a journey through layers of experience, each adding depth and color to her character.
Through her writing, her candidness, and her unique perspective, Amal offers a voice of wisdom and authenticity. She is a reminder that life is not about perfection but about progress, that strength lies in vulnerability, and that the most profound insights often come from the deepest struggles.
Amal's journey is not just her own but a mirror for anyone navigating the complexities of identity, purpose, and self-love. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, the beauty of small steps, and the magic of finding oneself amid the chaos of life.