We all have obligations

These are four areas that if we only take a closer look at, they can insha’Allah, become avenues that can help in our building of self, for the sake of Allah SWT. We don’t have to see these things as excuses to why we can’t grow. These four things are:

• Time
• Obligations
• Money
• Children

OBLIGATION

“O ye who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam”– Holy Quran al-Imran (3:102)

• Different goal

Obligation is defined as- “something that you must do because of a law, rule, promise, etc: something that you must do because it is morally right.” (Merriam-webster.com).

In dunya, obligations lead to self. Self-gratification, and ultimately, self-demise. One needs only to look and we can see what is encouraged and given honor in this world, looking out for self. In Islam, our obligations are prescriptions that lead to things that are good for the soul and for humanity. Recognizing that there is a difference between the obligations of a Muslim and a nonbeliever will help keep us from adopting the stresses and anxieties we sometimes put upon ourselves.

We often hear people bragging of how much they have done, or how far they have gone and then we look down on ourselves as if we’ve been left behind. Our obligations are different and so our destinations will be different. And because our end goal is also different so will be our check points.

As mothers, we might not have our careers as mapped out or as established as we would like but Alhamduliah we’ve managed to say our prayers on time for almost six months. We might not have the latest in designer clothes or toys for our children but Subhan’Allah, our six year old son has learned the adhan.

“It is not your wealth nor your sons, that will bring you nearer to Us in degree: but only those who believe and work righteousness - these are the ones for whom there is a multiplied Reward for their deeds, while secure they (reside) in the dwellings on high!” – Holy Quran Saba’34:37

• Different Obligations

Our obligations are different but because they are mostly things no one can see from the outside, we might disregard them as not “prestigious” as one getting a promotion or degree but indeed, they are more valuable than that. Any accomplishment we make, is only given value and importance if it is used as a way to bring us closer to Allah SWT. If we are striving towards things are going to keep us away from our Muslim obligations, then they are really paths towards failures.

I say this to myself first and then to others, do not compare your obligations to others (not even our Muslim brothers and sisters). Paying too much attention to someone’s whose iman appears to be higher might make us feel overwhelmed or discouraged in our own ability, while looking at someone whose iman appears to be weaker may encourage us to slack.

Having the confidence in our ability to be successful in whatever we do will help when someone tries and measures alongside us. It will also help when we feel bad and compare where we are or are doing in life with others, insha’Allah. We have to remember to be patient and kind to ourselves as well as others. Silencing the negative whispers instead of listening to them is not only a way to show ourselves love, but it is also empowering.

Insha’Allah we remember to appreciate the beautiful and clear way of life that is Islam and insha’Allah we keep our eye on the straight path before us instead of the distractions on the sides.

“Motives determine the value of all actions, and everyone will get what he intended.”

“It was said to the Prophet, “Who are the best people?” He replied, “The best of them are the most mindful of Allah.” B3374 – Prophet Muhammad PBUH