In the past, our forefathers and so many today as well, work tirelessly; long daylight hours, and some even through the night, to earn a *decent* living. They do so with a purpose and an end goal in mind.
For many, the reason wasn't, and still isn't to pile up wealth, or to spend what they earn on themselves - so they can have a little extra cash for possessions they want yet, don't necessarily need, but, it was to provide for their wives and children. For their families who live without roofs over their heads, without waters in their taps, or warm garments on their bodies.
For so long, that was the main purpose of many of our breadwinners. They had a strong sense to earn, to work hard, to struggle. Why? To provide for their loved ones, whom would in turn, shower them with love after a long days work. It kept the household strong and running. The roles were kept intact, the bread on the table was appreciated - there was no craving for more, because they understood it took effort, struggle and sacrifice to get where they were today.
Today, the purpose of gathering wealth has become fuzzy. Whilst some are on one side of the spectrum, earning great amounts, but holding it tightly to themselves, others are on the opposite side, a side where fathers, and mothers too, are having to struggle to make ends meet, to pay the bills, to provide schooling and provision for children. But why?
The problem is such, because so many have lost sight of their purpose. Instead of earning wealth, they are chasing it. Instead of being careful about what and how much they buy, they are acting as spendthrifts. Instead of appreciating what they have, they are using unlawful means to gain more. Instead of giving and using the surplus Allah has blessed them with, they are holding it tightly to themselves, afraid it may leave them.
Our money should be in our hands not heart, and so should every other material gifts. The imbalance in how we view money and finances, has resulted in poverty, broken homes, spoilt children, greediness, miserliness, and lack of charity.
Even between husband's and wife, fathers and sons, and within the institution of the family; arguments are rising, quarrels are occurring - why? Because of this imbalance and the increase expense of the basic necessities of life, which has caused mothers, whose main and built-in role was to create a beautiful home for themselves, their children and most importantly, their spouse, to have to provide and work also.
But every problem has a solution, and though it may not affect our homes, our lives, or our non-existing children, now, it may one day. That's why we need to change ourselves now, with small steps that will lead to bigger transformations, so that perhaps things can be better for our generations to come and the present day Ummah.
So, how? How can we maintain a balance and attract barakah into our wealth and lives?
- Charity: Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Those who spend in causes seeking the pleasure of Allah remain in His shelter. Angels send blessings on them and pray for increase in their wealth.” [Muslim]
The more you give, the more you will get back. Charity does not decrease your wealth, it enhances it and attracts barakah, sustenance and Allah's pleasure in your life. It may be difficult to even think about giving some of your wealth in the cause of Allah, because you lack sufficient possessions to provide your families basic needs. But remember, charity is not just about giving from your wealth, but it includes, giving your time, your words, your actions, your advice, your skills, in the cause of Allah. Give, even if its but a sincere intention, and take that step, for you will find sustenance before you.
- Keep on purpose: The purpose of working is not for you to gather so much wealth, which you will keep to yourself, or splash our in buying every new, expensive thing in the market. Whilst it's good and healthy to treat yourself and buy things, remember simplicity is beautiful. How much money would we have to spend on other causes - helping others, feeding the poor, assisting refugees, if only we put others before ourselves, and hold back on our desire to possess the world and all that is in? Keep your money in your hand, not heart, and invest. Don't forget your portion of this dunya, but don't neglect the true and lasting investment of the Akhirah.
- Appreciate your loved ones: Whether its your husband who is working tirelessly to pay the bills, or your a wife who has no choice but to work to support her husband and family, then don't forget to say how much you appreciate each other. According to the book, 'Why Mars and Venus Collide', "Having a job is often no longer a choice for most women, but a necessity." So whilst its something that has to be done, don't forget to not let it come first to creating a loving home. Whether a daughter, spouse, son, or sibling don't forget appreciation, love, and mercy - all qualities that will remind you of the purpose of earning a living and providing for a family.
May Allah place barakah in our sustenance and lives and make us of those who always remain on purpose, ameen.
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