Slow Realization

Assalaamu Alaikum :)

A friend of mine is going through a very tough period in her life. Her father had suffered from a stroke about a week ago. He is currently in Riyadh and she flew down there with her brother a few days ago to be with her family. Insha'Allah, her husband will be able to join her next month; he's in Ottawa. For a while her father was in a coma but she says that his level of coma is changing. He is now able to open is eyes for about a minute and he even attempted at lifting his hand. Unfortunately, he is still not fully conscious.

My heart goes out to her. My du'as go out to her father and the family. She was describing her feelings when she first saw her father in such a state and it was just unbearable. It is so difficult to see your parent that way. Especially your father. To most children, myself included, they see their father as some sort of a "superhero". Someone who can do anything and is capable of doing anything. I always think to myself, "I don't think there is anything my father can't do" and alhamdulillah, he is reaching an old age too. To be able to do so much at that age, it truly is a blessing. And then ... to see that man you have always considered to be unbreakable ... lying in a hospital bed, unable to move, speak or even keep their eyes open ... is heartbreaking. I make du'a that Allah Swt blesses her father with a full recovery where he is able to regain his mental and physical abilities. And that my friend and her family are blessed with patience so they may be able to be strong for him during this time. Ameen.

I have many posts which relate to my feelings towards parents and children because I see myself as a very family oriented person and care so deeply for them. Everyone has their ups and downs with parents but we need to remind ourselves to be patient because they reminded themselves of patience during the time they brought us up and put up with our shananigans :) (hehe I had to throw that word in there) Our treatment towards parents is always discussed within Islam and Allah Swt commands us to be kind towards them. Let us follow that very simple teaching, insha'Allah.

Her situation just got me thinking a lot ... and I feel I need to take advantage of the time I have with my parents right now. It's not like they're getting any younger. I can only pray that Allah Swt continues to bless them with good health and have them with me when I raise my own family in the future, insha'Allah. My parents would make amazing grandparents and I would like nothing more than to have my children around influences like them.

Take advantage of the time you have right now with your parents or any loved one ... you never know what tomorrow will bring.

*~* Today's Virtue *~*

Faithfulness

Faithfulness is being loyal to our beliefs, remaining firm and steadfast regardless of what happens. When our faith is tested, we stay strong, and learn from the experience. We do our work with meticulous care and excellence, faithful to its true intent. With the people we love, we are abiding and trustworthy. They know we will not abandon them or violate the sacred trust between us. Faithfulness through the changes and tests of time is a sign of lasting love. Faithful friendship is one of life's greatest treasures.