Reflecting on our childhood, we come to understand the reasons behind our mother’s actions. At the time, their strictness and discipline often felt like a burden, making them seem like the harshest mother’s in the world. The punishments and restrictions felt unjust, as if they wanted to deprive us of joy while our friends seemed to have more freedom.
However, now that we are mothers ourselves, we see things differently. We recognize that our mother’s were motivated by love and a deep desire to protect us from the challenges and temptations of this dunya (world).
The teachings of our faith emphasize the importance of guiding our children towards righteousness.
As mothers, we understand that following a path of discipline and instilling values in our children is essential. We want to shield them from fitna (trials and distractions) and ensure they grow up to be responsible, kind, steadfast and faithful individuals. This responsibility is not easy, but it is a duty that connects us with the wisdom of our own mothers and the teachings of our faith.
In the end, we realize that our mother’s strictness was rooted in their love and their hope for our success in this life and the Hereafter.
As our mothers grow older, it becomes our duty to care for them with the same tenderness and attention we gave to our babies. Just as we would rush to their aid when they are hurting or unwell, let us support them with compassion and dedication in their time of need. We should shower them with unconditional love, recognizing that the sacrifices they made for us deserve our gratitude and respect.
In Islam, the relationship between a mother and her child is profoundly significant. The Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam emphasized this bond in many teachings. One such hadith states: “He (the Prophet) was asked, ‘O Messenger of Allah! Who is most deserving of my good company?’ The Prophet Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam replied, ‘Your mother.’ The man said, ‘Then who?’ The Prophet Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam said, ‘Your mother.’ The man further asked, ‘Then who?’ The Prophet Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam said again, ‘Your mother.’ The man asked once more, ‘Then who?’ The Prophet Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam replied, ‘Then your father.'” This highlights the unparalleled status of mothers in our lives.
Moreover, a mother’s duas (supplications) for her child hold immense weight in the eyes of Allah Ta’ala. It is said that when a mother prays for her child, her prayers are readily accepted. This underscores the importance of nurturing our relationship with our mothers, not only by caring for them but also by honoring their wisdom and learning from their experiences.
As we reflect on the love and sacrifices of our mothers, let us commit to being there for them as they were for us, embracing them with affection and ensuring that their golden years are filled with joy and comfort.
