Loving Your Parents

I know what you're thinking: "Yes, I know, we're told to respect our parents. Been there, heard that."


Islam teaches us to respect our parents, to value their opinions, their suggestions and their support.


We often forget how they stayed up all night when we didn't want to sleep, or slept in ER room chairs when we were sick or ignored their desires to buy us our essentials. At one point we could do nothing without them, now that we feel as if we are "independent", we ignore them. We hate it when they suggest things to us. We feel as if they are trying to "control our lives". We speak in tones and use words that are hurtful.


This is just a quick post to get you thinking about how you treat your parents on a daily basis. Go home today, call them, skype them (hey its the new tech era!), and give them a hug. Tell them you love them, that you appreciate what they did for you, and what they still do for you.


If they ask you why all this affection all of a sudden, tell them "To please Allah (swt)".


Below is a heart-touching video link on a father's love and a small dua that can benefit both your parents and you.


Rabbighfir lii wali-waali-dayya walil-muminii-na yauma ya-quumul hisaab.
Rabbir-hamhumaa kamaa rabba-yaani shag-hiiraa.


O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they have nourished me when I was young.

-Muslima Nurse