Lending a helping hand

Wa ta'aawanuu 'alal birri wat-taqwaa...

"And help one another in righteousness and piety..." [Al-Maidah:2]

What does righteousness mean to you? Is it doing things the right way? Or more often we'd say, do the right things. I'd prefer, doing the right things the right way, rooted with pure intentions before actions. When we intend to help, it signifies righteousness with a true devotion to gain His blessings. It's a reward gained metaphysically - something unseen, non-material but returns in which stay for eternity.

Say, volunteerism. An act of willingness without any tangible gain. Depending on your special abilities and talents, you work the extra mile to lend a hand for the benefit of society. Doesn't matter which organization be it a Muslim or a non-Muslim one you're involved with, being a volunteer is certainly an ibadah. While others possess the abilities to lead, the fresher ones need the experience and gradually gain skills for personal development. And it's always the level of satisfaction in a successful event that causes the heart and will to continue future events for a good cause.

Most importantly, you volunteer because of the passion you have. Being forced into one defeats purpose of volunteering. Because every small act makes a difference. Because it matters. And it's been quite a hiatus. Good to be back to get a break from work commitments. A short temp mentor for the night and photographer for the whole event. A nice feeling to be working together with my dear ikhwan and akhawat again, catching up and to gain sight of unexpected discoveries from one another.

'Ukhuwwah itu indah jika bertemu dan berpisah keranaNya'

dan indah juga kerana hari itu aku singgah sebentar ke walimah sahabat yang rapat...

Remembered the times we mugged at the benches, at the BioSci building, my hostel.
A good ukhuwwah indeed.
Now, you embark on a new journey.

To Karima & Hafiz,

بارك الله لكما وجمع بينكم في خير

May Allah bless the both of you and unite you both in goodness.
Aameen.