Giving Gratitude and Being Content

Alhumdilah I got the chance to work with a talented photographer, Hannan J Wazwaz, who works with the company AltamishandHannan Photography. She did a photoshoot with me for my birthday and I asked last minute and she made time for me! She does really great work MashAllah, May Allah reward her for all she does for others! If you are located in Minnesota, definitely check her out! 

Besides these amazing photos I was also thinking about gratitude this morning and telling my friend how lately I have felt more happier and positive. I was telling her that there are things that I still would like to have and that I am praying to Allah that he helps me with what I ask for, but I know He knows when the time is best for me. What I am hoping to work is on my patience and that Allah withholds certain things so that I grow in my patience and strength and also continue to make efforts to be close to Allah.

She reminded me that it is easy to stop asking and doing good deeds and being grateful when things are easy in life, because when things are difficult we call upon Allah because we are desperate, needy and unhappy. I agreed and I said I have been trying to be more grateful and even show appreciation to my friends and family because whoever is thankful to the people is thankful to Allah.

I actually find it easier to be grateful when things are going well in life. When I am tested I definitely let my sadness and frustration take over me, but I have tried even when I am in tears and bawling, to get myself in prayer and to cry in sujood to Allah who knows my pain and can help me through it and do something about it. 

May Allah help us to be thankful in times of difficulty and in times of ease, May we recognize our blessings and not be jealous of others' blessings, May we pray no matter when and what is going on, May we be content with what Allah has given us but still ask of Allah what we desire.

Contentment with what we have is not easy either, but if we remember we are not on this Earth forever and as long as we have our basic necessities we don't have to feel frustrated with what someone else has, or if this person appears to have more fame or in terms of followers or likes on social media (which is my struggle not even going to lie). People appear happier and seem to have better lives on social media and tv, because they usually only show when things are going very well with them. So it is easy to want what someone else has because their life appears to be perfect, but we are all tested in different ways and what we struggle with and when we sin, it will not always be apparent. 

I hope no one thinks that I am perfect either, please know that Allah conceals my flaws and my sins. Trust me, I am not that great of a person, because Allah knows that I haven't been the best Muslim lately. But I continue to strive on the straight path so know that I am on the same level or a lower level than you are. I hope that I do not appear to be stuck up or think that I am better than anyone else. May we be protected from feelings of pride or showing off or hypocrisy.

Anyways being thankful and content and showing gratitude! I hope we all try our best to be these things everyday In Sha Allah!