The renowned and well-respected anchor and journalist Khadija Ben Qana, hailing from Algeria and well-known in the Arab world, shared an inspiring incident from her visit to the United States. This incident beautifully captures the essence of honesty and integrity, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.
During her visit to a department store, Khadija patiently awaited her turn at the checkout counter after completing her shopping. In the midst of her wait, a veiled Muslim woman entered the store, visibly exhausted, pushing a large box that seemed to be a grass-cutting machine. Fatigue marked her face, and it was evident that she had endured a tiring ordeal.
Approaching the checkout counter, the woman engaged in a conversation with the cashier. With impeccable courtesy, she informed the cashier that she had purchased the machine the previous day, along with other items, totaling $500. However, she had forgotten to pay for the machine at that time. The cashier’s inquiry was straightforward, asking if she intended to return it. The woman’s response was a firm “No.”
The cashier further questioned whether she had seen the same machine being sold for a lower price at another store. The woman was ready with her response, explaining that while she had seen lower prices for other items, she was firm on her decision to keep the machine and pay the original amount. However, proving the difference in prices from another store was a prerequisite for the refund.
The woman’s unwavering determination caught the attention of everyone in the store, including Khadija. She was intrigued by the woman’s honesty and her refusal to compromise her principles. As the woman spoke, Khadija realized that she had purchased the same machine the day before and had made the payment using her credit card. She then transported the machine to her residence, which was nearly two hours away.
However, when she arrived home and inspected her purchase, Khadija discovered that she had forgotten to pay for the machine at the store. The realization was humbling and a testament to the woman’s integrity. Her actions stood in stark contrast to those who might have chosen to ignore the mistake or keep the product without acknowledging the oversight.
Moved by the woman’s steadfastness, the cashier left her position and walked over to the store manager. Khadija observed this interaction and deduced that the conversation was not about a routine matter. The manager soon approached the woman and the cashier with an empathetic demeanor. The store’s staff and customers began to gather, their curiosity piqued by the unfolding scene.
The staff gathered around the woman, discussing her incredible honesty and faith-driven values. Khadija stood by, her face revealing the depth of her emotions. It was apparent that the woman’s actions had touched her deeply, reflecting a set of beliefs and values that transcended cultures and religions.
The incident’s impact resonated with everyone present, emphasizing the importance of upholding values, even in challenging circumstances. The gathered staff questioned the woman about Islamic principles related to trustworthiness and honesty, and she responded with grace, providing insights from religious texts. The encounter was a testament to the power of faith and values in shaping one’s actions.
The store manager extended a gift—an offer to present the woman with the grass-cutting machine as a gesture of appreciation for her integrity. However, the woman graciously declined the offer, emphasizing that the machine’s value was secondary to the principles she held dear. She paid the remaining amount owed for the machine and left the store, leaving behind a profound impact on all those who had witnessed her unwavering honesty.
Khadija Ben Qana shared this remarkable incident, overwhelmed with pride to be a fellow Muslim and to witness such exemplary conduct. It’s a story that transcends language barriers, a testament to the power of two qualities an individual can possess: the fear of God and good character. These two traits can shape an individual’s life and leave an indelible mark, even beyond this world, carrying the potential to lead them to paradise, as is believed in Islam.