Because as soon as some people that I know hear the word Give in the Masjid, they think it’s time for donations. They link it to financials automatically.
But when you are sincere about giving, it comes from the heart. And then you feel sincerity. And then others hearts start receiving signals of sincerity, so they receive comfort.
And, Giving in my humble opinion starts with the self. Give your self your rest. Give your self your health. Give your self your attention. Give your self the acknowledgement of your worth, until you fill your self. Once you are filled, then you start overflowing…
I had learned that when you do good to someone, that someone ends up doing the same good to someone else, feeling the need to give back for what they had been given. Ultimately it’s God who allows our hearts to feel the need to give, because He is The Giver. So, He gives through us, by guiding our hearts.
Please do good to someone that you don’t have to do good for, or you don’t need to do good for. You never know what type of impact you will make in that persons life.
At times, it is important to acknowledge what you give, and to whom you are giving. Because if someone is dealing with a Tragic, or is Traumatized, (Although you may mean well), it is not appropriate to give this person a Religious Advice, or Brain knowledge.
For Example: A girl who had been raped, does not need an Advice, or brain knowledge.
She does not need Religious teachings, and well meaning critics. She needs a hug. She needs compassion. She needs your presence. She needs your attention. She simply needs you to be there. She wants to cry while you hug her. She wants to Grieve! Just Grieve! Just closure! Just be there, with sincere emotions, and good intentions!
The above is an illustrative example to present one type of Traumatic experience. There are many. Some may be known to us, and some may never be known. Because Traumatic experiences can be internal, while you have no idea, from the external view. And so, I ask you to please have wisdom while you are giving, Learn about the person, and the situation, and think of the kindest, bestest way to give, while being conscious of their feelings.
And remember how Prophet Mohammed was with people, while reading this quick short story;
The Prophet (pbuh) was aware of the details of every single companion’s social status and managed to deal with every one according to his circumstances. Once a poor man invited the Prophet and served him vinegar. The Prophet (peace be upon him) comforted him and said:
“The best condiment is vinegar.” (Muslim)
This reaction reflects the Prophet’s wisdom. He did not want to hurt the man’s feeling because of his poor condition.
Give, may Allah give you!
Mohammed. F. Alhomsi 