“Bismillah (In the name of God)”
When we think of gratitude, we look for the big things that have happened in our life to be grateful for and sometimes, we think we need more to feel grateful, but Allah teaches us the opposite:
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you.” (14:7)
Gratitude is not just words; it is a way of seeing things and the blessings in life. When we thank Allah (God) in ease and hardship, our hearts expand and our blessings grow in ways we may not even notice or understand.
What can you be grateful for?
There are many things to be grateful for. I usually start with the things that I take for granted and then move towards the bigger things. I always start with “Oh Allah(God), thank you for my life, thank you for my eyes to see, thank you for my ears to hear, thank you for loving me, thank you for knowledge, thank you for blessings, thank you for grace, thank you for guidance, thank you for my family and so on.
Being grateful for life is very important because if Allah (God) doesn’t allow you to exist, you will not be able to get anything. The gratitude for your bodily functions are also important because if any part of the body has a problem/ health issue, your peace of mind and sometimes your finance and mobility are also in jeopardy.
We are all blessed and showers with grace from Allah (God) in every moment that we are alive. However, we do not recognize them because we take all that we see, feel, experience, share with others and learn for granted. If we can understand that we possess nothing and everything come from Allah (God) then, gratitude will become easy to experience.
How can you practice gratitude?
The best way to practice gratitude is by appreciating everything that you are and have. Also, recognize your abilities or capabilities to do anything doesn’t belong to you. See everything as a gift and say thank you to the giver who gave it to you.
Gratitude is a way of seeing things and experiencing life. Ramadan is the perfect time to shift from lack to thankfulness.
Ask Yourself
- What blessings have I overlooked?
- How can I show gratitude daily?
- Where do I need to say “Alhamdulillah (All praise be to God)or (Thanks be to God)” more often?
Prayer
O Allah (God), put gratitude in my heart, make me among your grateful servants and increase me in goodness. Ameen