Parenting

As individuals, when we think about our responsibilities, they often revolve around things directly related to us, like our families, jobs or our studies. But are we aware that Allah has given us another duty as well? This responsibility concerns the entire well-being of the Earth we live in.

How often is it that we find ourselves and our children to be wanting something out of a strong impulse or an urge, rather than there actually being a need for it in our lives?

Abu Hamzah Anas bin Malik narrated that the Prophet Muhammad, 

peace and blessings be upon him, said: 

"None of you will believe until you love for your brother what you love for yourself." 

(Bukhari & Muslim)

Hidden within every suffering, adversity, grief or discomfort are a myriad of spiritual bounties and blessings for the believer.

A couple of Ramadans ago I wanted to try something different with my kids. Their ages ranged from 2 to 13 years at the time, but I hoped to figure out an activity we could all benefit from. I decided to make a gratitude board using the following verse from the Quran as a theme: 

“Be grateful for your life, every detail of it, and your face will come to shine like a sun, and everyone who sees it will be made glad and peaceful.” (Rumi)

Is your teen’s idea of a good time binge-watching Netflix all day? Why not turn that habit into a teachable moment? I recommend grabbing warm blankets and popcorn and cozying up to your skittish teenager to watch AlRawabi School for Girls.