Keeping alive the Islamic tradition of scholarship, insight, and purification...one day at a time.

Tuesday, July 26, 2005

LESSON OF THE DAY 270

Ayah of the Day: As for those who believed and went into exile, and struggled in the cause of God with their possessions and their persons, and those who provided shelter and assistance, they are friends to one another. As for those who believed but did not go into exile, you owe them no protection until they go into exile. But if they ask for help in religion, you are obliged to help them, except against people with whom you have a treaty. And God sees what you do. [8: 72]

Hadith of the Day: All of you are shepherds and are responsible for your flocks: A ruler is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock; a man is the shepherd and is responsible for his flock; a slave is the shepherd of his master's possessions and is responsible for them. So, listen! All of you are shepherds and all of you are responsible for your flocks. [Bukhari & Muslim]

Wise Quote of the Day:There is no good in wealth without generosity; there is no good in brotherhood without caring for one another; there is no good in a blessing that is short lived; and there is no good in supplication without sincerity. [Ali radi Allah anhu]

Guidance of the Day: Communicating well emotionally requires more than saying the right words; we also need to send and receive nonverbal messages accurately. The ability to discover shared meanings in our lives leads to greater stability in our relationships with friends, family, and coworkers. It helps people settle conflicts and collectively pursue the goals that really matter to them--goals like raising a healthy child, building a successful business, or helping an elderly relative die peacefully at home.

When two people find meaning, they're willing to support each other's dreams, even when there's little to gain personally from doing so. All of this is very good for relationships. The same thing happens in positive environments and healthy families. When people agree that their relationships lend meaning to their lives, they keep coming together, turning toward one another, and strengthening those relationships--even in the face of conflict. [The Relationship Cure]

Food for Thought: Happiness is the bud, the blossom, and the fruit of good actions. It must be earned. There are spiritual laws governing happiness, just as there are laws governing the universe. Happiness is through overcoming our weaknesses, performing our duties, losing our self centeredness, and putting ourselves in harmony with eternal laws.