With the sudden rise of coronavirus and with it, the lockdown of many countries, I implore us to reflect upon these crucial times. The uncertainty and chaotic nature of this period has led many of us to feel overwhelmed. Yet, this pandemic can actually be a blessing in disguise, if we use it as a tool to get closer to Allah سبحانه وتعالى.
There are many gifts that Allah has blessed us with – from wealth, family, shelter to being able to breathe, walk and eat. However, sometimes we take these blessings for granted and forget that they can be taken away from us instantly. Consider situation we find ourselves in now. With the adhaan in Kuwait saying, ‘pray in your homes’ rather than ‘come to prayer’, many of us feel like a blessing that Allah has privileged us with has been stripped away from us.
This is our time to reflect. Think about the abundance of blessings Allah has given us. Have we truly been grateful for them? And have we been using these blessings in a manner that is pleasing to our Lord?
Were we grateful for being able to pray in congregation in peace without having to fear for our lives like the people in Palestine? If we’ve been blessed with health, have we used it to actively engage in our communities? Have we showed gratitude by looking after our bodies and consuming healthy food? If the answer is no, then now is our time to appreciate every blessing and reform. Being grateful not only allows us to be content but also opens doors to more blessings, just like Allah says in the Quran:
“IF YOU ARE GRATEFUL, I WILL GIVE YOU MORE.” [QURAN 14:7]
One way we can acknowledge our blessings is by keeping a gratitude journal. Try to write down three things you are grateful for every day. Let’s not focus on what we’ve lost or don’t have – there are still countless number of blessings Allah has given us.
When blessings like health, peace and security are taken away from us, we can develop empathy for the people around the world who are suffering. Consider the Uyghurs in China who are being placed in concentration camps or the people in Yemen starving as a result of the continuing conflict. Our lockdowns and food shortages are only a glimpse of their pain. They have been experiencing such tragedies for months on end.
“THE BELIEVERS IN THEIR MUTUAL KINDNESS, COMPASSION AND SYMPATHY ARE JUST LIKE ONE BODY. WHEN ONE OF THE LIMBS SUFFERS, THE WHOLE BODY RESPONDS TO IT WITH SLEEPLESSNESS AND FEVER” [SAHIH AL BUKHARI]
We must strive to support those who are experiencing hardships and become saddened by what they are experiencing. By doing this, we will be able to purify our hearts.
This feeling of empathy should also drive us to support those who are needy. In these times, we should try to look out for the most vulnerable in our society, including the old and the homeless. The homeless have no shelter nor a support system and generally, the old have weaker immune systems. Now, more than ever is our time to check on the elder generations and provide for them. Now, more than ever is our time to distribute food or hygiene products to the homeless.
We also have a lot of time to spare now. Yes, it’s upsetting that we can’t pray in the masjid anymore or attend ISoc events. But this our unique opportunity to perform acts of worships in solitude.
Now we can finally reach the goals we had; whether that be memorising surahs, serving our parents or reflecting upon Allah’s creation. We’ll also have the opportunity to evaluate ourselves. This includes asking ourselves questions like: where do I sin? What environments are detrimental for my imaan? Which company should I keep? How can I improve? Holding ourselves accountable for our deeds is vital for improving ourselves and our relationship with Allah.
“CRITICIZE AND APPRAISE YOURSELVES BEFORE YOU ARE CRITICIZED AND APPRAISED ON THE DAY OF JUDGEMENT, AND WEIGH OUT YOUR DEEDS BEFORE THEY ARE WEIGHED OUT FOR YOU.” [UMAR رضي الله عنه ]
Let’s change our perspective and focus on the blessings we can reap from this hardship. Now is the perfect opportunity for us to refurbish our lives before Ramadan.
May Allah keep us all safe and allow us to grow closer to Him through this hardship, Ameen.
