Edition #9, March 13th, 2021

Assalamualikum, First name / Friend!,

My name is Summer Siddiqui. My hobbies are reading, writing murder mysteries, sleeping, playing piano, and watching anime. As of writing this, it's really late at night.

Family is one of the most important things in the world. You only have one, so take good care of it. There are thousands of people that would kill to have a family. To have the opportunities you have. To be loved. So don't take what you have for granted.

“And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age (while) with you, say not to them (so much as), “uff”, and do not repel them but speak to them a noble world.”- Al-Isra : 23

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Do not ever sever your relationship with a member of your family even if he severs his relationship with you.”  Allah (swt) has provided you with the family that you have. He has placed you in it for a reason. 

Your family is not a burden on you or a responsibility; your family is a blessing and a mercy on you. Maintaining the bonds of kinship is called “sillat ur-rahm” in Arabic. Rahm means womb which is derived from raheem which means “to have mercy on”. The Prophet ﷺ said: “He who wishes that his sustenance be increased for him and his death day be delayed then he should pay attention to his kinfolk.”

It is important to stay close with your family. To communicate with them. Even if you think you don't like them, or have a disagreement. They will help you in your time of need. When no one else is there for you, your family will be by your side. 

You can help your family by taking care of your parents and elders and other relatives. Actually listen to what they say. Do chores, like taking out the trash or doing the dishes.

Do not yell at your siblings. Compromise if there is a dispute. Try sharing something. Be patient, have sabr, especially with your parents and siblings. They can really get on your nerves sometimes, but they love you, and will always be there for you.

Do stuff without being asked. Be proactive. Make sure that everyone is treated fairly. It might be difficult at times, but Allah (swt) will help and will reward you in this world and the hereafter.

Ready to take a long nap, 

Summer Siddiqui 

and all of us a part of the AlSalam Masjid Youth!

- Our Writers Squad -

Anum Tayyab - Summer Siddiqui - Abeer Abbasi - Maryam Altaf