20th Feb 2025
Ali was excited for iftar. His family had prepared delicious food, and the smell of samosas and soup filled the air. He set his plate carefully on the table, all ready for the first bite. But just before Maghrib, there was a knock at the door. Ali's eyes widened as he opened the door to an old man with a tired face. "I haven’t eaten all day," he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
Ali looked at his plate. He had only one date in front of him, shiny and sweet. He hesitated but then smiled and handed the date to the man. "Here, have this!" he said cheerfully. The man’s eyes sparkled with gratitude. "Thank you, my son," he exclaimed, and warmth filled Ali’s heart. That night, at the table, his mother surprised him with extra sweets. "When you give, Allah gives you more," she said with a loving smile. Ali knew then that a small act of kindness could bring great happiness.
The next day, Ali's family decided to invite their neighbors for iftar. Ali was thrilled to help set up the table with his favorite dishes. As he laid out the plates, he thought about the old man. Maybe, just maybe, he could bring him some food too. His mother noticed Ali's thoughtful expression and nodded. 'That's a wonderful idea, Ali,' she encouraged, wrapping up a plate with warm food for him to share.
Ali walked through the neighborhood, his heart light with anticipation. When he reached the corner where the old man usually sat, Ali's smile broadened. 'I brought you something!' he called out, holding up the plate filled with samosas and soup. The man's face lit up, and he accepted the offering gratefully, his eyes saying more than words ever could. Ali felt a tingle of happiness, knowing he had made a difference in someone’s day.
That evening, as Ali shared the story of his visit with his family, he felt a sense of belonging and joy. His father patted him on the back with pride. 'Kindness is a seed that blossoms into the most beautiful garden,' his father said, as they all gathered for a heartfelt prayer. Ali felt his heart swell with warmth, understanding that the true essence of Ramadan was not just in the fasting, but in the giving and sharing of love and compassion.
