When the morning sun rises, lighting up our homes, it’s a gentle reminder of the blessings during Ramadan that we often take for granted. Waking up healthy, safe, and with a meal to look forward to is truly a blessing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) beautifully conveyed this sentiment:

“Whoever among you wakes up physically healthy, feeling safe and secure within himself, with food for the day, it is as if he acquired the whole world.” — [Sunan Ibn Majah]

This hadith encourages us to appreciate what we have. Health, safety, and food, things we might overlook until they are at risk. During Ramadan, these blessings become even more significant as we take time to reflect and give thanks.

Understanding True Gratitude

In Islam, gratitude is more than just words. It’s a way of living. It’s about being humble and recognising that every blessing is a gift from Allah. The Quran reminds us:

“And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favour].'” — [Surah Ibrahim: 14:7]

This verse highlights that gratitude is the key to receiving more blessings during Ramadan and beyond. When we acknowledge Allah’s gifts, we invite more of His mercy into our lives. Gratitude involves sharing our blessings with those who have less.

During Ramadan, fasting allows us to experience hunger firsthand, helping us empathise with those who face it daily.

Fasting Opens Our Hearts to Those in Need

One of the impacts of fasting is how it brings empathy and compassion. As the pangs of hunger settle in, we are reminded of those who face hunger not just for a day but as a constant reality. It is through this empathy that Ramadan encourages charitable giving, as sadaqah (voluntary charity) and zakat (obligatory almsgiving) become central acts of worship.

By going without food firsthand, we become more attuned to the struggles of others. We remember the single mother who struggles to feed her children, the elderly man who can’t afford basic meals, and the countless families who view iftar not as a feast but as a reminder of scarcity.

This is why the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised feeding others as a noble act of faith:

“He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while the neighbour to his side goes hungry.” — [Sunan al-Kubra]

This hadith not only highlights the importance of community responsibility but also underscores the transformative power of sharing.

How Gratitude Transforms Our Actions

Gratitude naturally propels us into action. It inspires us to give, not out of obligation, but from a genuine desire to uplift others. Acts of giving, whether through donating money, feeding the hungry, or volunteering time, become expressions of thankfulness.

During Ramadan, even small acts of charity carry immense rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“The best charity is to provide water to drink and food to the hungry.” — [Ahmad]

This is why many Muslims choose Ramadan as a time to increase their charitable contributions. It is not only about financial donations but also about creating meaningful moments of connection and support. The simple act of sharing a meal during iftar can provide someone not only nourishment but also dignity and hope.

The Community Aspect of Giving

The act of feeding others brings people together, building community bonds and a sense of unity. When we sit together for iftar, we are reminded that food is more than sustenance, it is a means of connection.

Communities thrive when people look out for one another. When we give, we are not just alleviating physical hunger, we are also addressing emotional and spiritual needs. For many families, receiving food during Ramadan is not just about survival, it’s about feeling remembered, loved, and cared for by their community.

Extending Our Gratitude

This Ramadan, as we break our fasts with warmth and nourishment, let us be mindful of those who are not as fortunate. Our acts of kindness, no matter how small, can create ripples of hope that extend far beyond what we can see.Your kindness can help ensure families in need have a warm meal to break their fast this Ramadan. Join us in making a difference through Ramadan Iftar Donations – Iftar For All.“