By Madeehah Nazneen Bt Md Najib
“Feeding the Homeless” or “Feeding the Needy” are among the efforts that are no longer foreign or something new to all of us. Most of us are quite aware and concern with peripheral especially involving the less fortunate. Today, there are various forms of activities or programmes in place to reach out to these groups to ensure that their lives are protected and looked after.
To be honest, I am very much motivated, impressed and inspired by the presence of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and volunteers who are committed to devote whatever they have, whatever they can by all means. Indeed, these unsung heroes are such an inspiration to all of us.
Looking at this from another angle, this programme will not only help the less fortunate but basically, efforts like these actually help, educate and touch more hearts of the people who are involved in volunteering job. Honestly, without that much experience that I have, the vast efforts like these actually help to fill ourselves with the spiritual values ‹‹like gratitude, thankfulness, love and most importantly fill our hearts with sincere feelings and gratitude.
When it comes to charity work, we might only think about money and material donations. But the fact is that, the charity may be in various forms, as well as the time and energy we share and contribute. Sometimes, when we approach them more closely, it will leave a deep impression and feelings for those who receive it, even with just a simple question as œmak cik sihat?
I believe all religions teach us to do good things. Similarly in Islam, every good deed is charity even how small and simple it might be. Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet SAW said, œEvery Muslim has to give in sadaqah (charity). The people asked, œO, Allahs Messenger SAW, if someone has nothing to give, what will we do? He said, œHe should work with his hands and benefit himself and also give in charity (from what he earns). œThe people further asked, œIf he cannot do even that? He replied, œThen he should help the needy who appeal for help. Then the people asked, œIf he cannot do that? He replied, œThen he should perform all that is good and keep away from all that is evil and this will be regarded as charitable deeds.
Sometimes we tend to forget that everything Allah SWT lends to us is meant to be shared with others. May be today, they are tested with the hard times but in the future we never know that it could be our turn. Indeed, everything that is good also known as sadaqah, and also such a therapy for the hearts and souls.
Let’s start with a smile and greet every person we meet tomorrow. It’s part of charity.***
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