Life abroad in West Africa has certainly taught me that, in the West, we are spoiled. We take things for granted. I was forced to learn the true meaning of needs versus wants—to truly know what is a blessing.
“And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them.” (Quran 14:34)
Let’s start with life’s basic necessity: water. It is a common occurrence here for the water supply to be switched off, which means you have to buy water from somewhere else. Another thing we take for granted is electricity. The lights may go off at any time for no rhyme or reason. I’ve gotten in the habit of always keeping my electronic devices charged.
The main point I want to touch on is food. We eat food in season. We eat food that is local most of the time. I am not buying imported strawberries for a high price. Our meals are simple. We eat less meat and more fish.
I am often reminded of the verse:
So her Lord accepted her graciously and blessed her with a pleasant upbringing—entrusting her to the care of Zachariah. Whenever Zachariah visited her in the sanctuary, he found her supplied with provisions. He exclaimed, “O Mary! Where did this come from?” She replied, “It is from Allah. Surely Allah provides for whoever He wills without limit.” (Quran 3:36)
Maryam was given this exotic food. I feel that in the West we take for granted that we can buy and make any food we like.
Let us remember that Allah ﷻ gave us this blessing of food, of water, of electricity—the basic things in life we often forget are indeed also blessings.
“Allah is pleased with His servant who, upon eating his food, praises Him (thanks Him for the food), and upon drinking his drink, praises Him (thanks Him for the drink).” (Sahih Muslim)
Jessica Nix, Rabateer