While You Are Not Watching

This was the title of an email I received few days ago. Basically, it mentioned that kids learn more from what they see you do than from what you instruct them to do. When I read this email, I remembered my 12 year old son’s words, “Mama, when you grow old I’ll take good care of you like you do with Geddo (grandfather)”. My eyes filled with tears and I was thankful to Allah.

SubhanAllah!!!! I have the honor to care for my 80 year old father after he suffered a stroke. After my son’s words, I have become even more careful with what I do and say to my dad. I was suffering from calling the kids and getting no answer,so now when my dad calls me I answer right away. And while I’m not watching, my kids noticed and wala! Problem solved!!!

Every time something like this happens to me I see the greatness of our Deen. Allah swt orders us to take care of our parents and I see the reward of that in this dunia before the akhira. So mamas, treat your parents the way you want your kids to treat you now and when you grow old.

And remember that your mother in law is a mother too! 🙂

Eman A. Sayed

Eman Sayed lives in Cairo, Egypt, with her four children and is interested in religious studies, parenting, and health.