30 for 30: Taraweeh Reflections Day 5
On Day 5, the beloved Imam Ibrahim Sacko from the Harlem Islamic Center's khatira discussed the importance of maintaining nurturing relationships with our parents and the simple yet significant act of greeting them each day. Amid the fasting, prayers, and communal gatherings that hallmark this holy month, the essence of family bonds and the respect owed to our parents surfaced as the central theme for today's learnings.
It's been almost a week since I last spoke to my mom, and it's weighing on me. Imam Sacko's words today struck a chord. It's easy to stay connected when you live together, but it's a constant challenge when you're thousands of miles apart. The simple act of greeting our parents is often overlooked in the busyness of life (yesterday's reflection). The irony is that the main thing that I'm busy with (Work), so I have the means to give her anything she wants, is the thing that I use as an excuse for it being okay not to always be in contact with her.
Quran and Hadith are filled with verses and narrations emphasizing the significance of kindness and dutifulness towards parents. This Ramadan, I'm taking this beautiful khatira from Imam Sacko as a practical manifestation to make a conscious effort to not only greet my mom with warmth and sincerity each day moving forward but also to engage more deeply with her, to listen and to express my gratitude for her sacrifices and unconditional love because I can attest that every time we speak, like clockwork, everything always feels better afterward.
My brothers and I always stay back at the masjid after Taraweeh prayers to clean the space for Fajr. So, I get to reflect as people make their way out; that solitude energizes these daily reflections. Today, I realized that greeting our parents daily, especially during Ramadan, is more than a ritual; it is a gesture of reverence, a bridge of connection, and a means of earning divine pleasure. It is an affirmation of the values of patience, respect, and humility that Ramadan seeks to cultivate within us.
Today, I discovered a profound truth: warmly greeting our parents is a gateway to immense spiritual growth. It reminds us of our roots, our upbringing, and the pivotal role our parents play in our lives. It underscores the centrality of family in our faith and our humanity. As I move forward in this blessed month, I am reminded of the hadith:
"Abu Huraira reported that a person said: Allah's Messenger, who amongst the people is most deserving of my good treatment? He said: Your mother, again your mother, again your mother, then your father, then your nearest relatives according to the order (of nearness). - (Muslim, 2548b)"
This reflection deepens my resolve to cherish and uphold the sacred bond with my mom, recognizing that within her happiness lies a path to spiritual fulfillment and divine contentment.
As we journey through this blessed month, let us strengthen our family ties, deepen our appreciation for the blessings of parenthood, and inspire each other to greet our parents each day with love, respect, and gratitude. Ameen.
