I was born in a poor Muslim household. My father is a religious person who earns his subsistence by teaching at a Madrasa (Islamic education centre). All his life he has been serving the community and working for the betterment of the society. From my early age he has been teaching me how to focus on a proper Islamic life and serving the Almighty Allah. He often says, “Consider yourself very fortunate for everything Allah has provided you with and dedicate your life following his values. He is the ultimate truth and the only one to show you the right path of life as well after life. All the materialistic things are temporary but your deeds are permanent”.
Like he says, he is never worried about money or any other things. His beliefs towards Allah always drive him in the right way. My mother has been very supportive throughout and never complains about anything. Yes, we are poor but somehow the blessing of Allah has kept us well and sound.
I love playing sports but football is the game I love the most. We have a TV but my father can not afford a cable connection so I often visit my friend’s place to watch football. And whenever I get time I play football with my friends. My father was aware of my enthusiasm about sports and always encouraged me. I always wanted to ask him for a football and boots but could not. Last year, on the eve of Eid my father asked me what I wanted. I do not know how but the word I uttered was “A ball”. I hesitated right after I said it but my father laughed. Later in the evening he took me to a sports shop and got me a football. That was the moment which I would always remember for my whole life. I felt Eid came earlier for me, I was so happy! The whole night I could not sleep and was waiting for the sun to rise. Next morning me and my father went for our Eid prayer. Suddenly I realised he was wearing an old piece of cloth instead of a new one. Then I felt he got me the ball and sacrificed his new cloth. My heart literally broke,I cried inside and prayed to Allah, “Allah guide me such a way that I can fulfil all the requirements of my family some day”.
Even at an early age I have realised that life is not the same for everyone. Some get more, some get less, but everyone can be happy with whatever he possesses. I am happy with the little things around me, and grateful towards Allah for everything. My father said to me once, “The poor are the richest because they have the devotion and love which keep Allah on their side”.
Fabled by Shubhro Sinha
Photo by Pranto Nayan.
