Is what befell me—the violation of my honor as a child—and what I currently suffer from—cowardice, shyness, gloom, and negativity—a punishment from Allah for me? And why does punishment precede the sin, as long as the pen is lifted from the child?

Strengthening faith and trust in Allah, abandoning evil whispers and corrupt fantasies, and maintaining obligatory prayers while increasing good deeds—especially charity, night vigil, supplication, and remembrance—are the best aids against fear, doubt, and weak character. As for what happened to you in childhood, there is no accountability for it, because the pen is lifted from the child until he reaches puberty. Allah is All-Wise, All-Merciful, and Just in His decree and destiny. Calamities are an expiation for sins, a raising of ranks, a test for believers, or a punishment for committed sins.