It was a warm evening, and I found myself in the company of Chacha Ji. “Rashid Chacha!” I inquired, “We have an Iftar gathering at my place tomorrow, and we expect around fifty guests. I need some snacks, particularly ‘pakoras.’ How much should I pay you in advance?”
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Chacha Ji glanced at me with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes and asked, “How much can you afford?”
His question, though I had known him for a while, caught me off guard, seeming both impudent and amusing. Nevertheless, I took out more money than the actual cost and placed it in front of him. Chacha Ji picked up the money and said, “Give this to the old lady across the street, and tomorrow, bring samosas and pakoras to your Iftar gathering. Your worries are now resolved. The Iftar time was approaching, and I didn’t have enough money to cover the expenses. But now, the elderly lady had come to my rescue, freeing me from the anxiety of preparing for both Sehri and Iftar for the next few days.
A cool wave washed over me as I continued walking towards her. “Who are you?” I asked involuntarily. Chacha Ji was visibly shaken by my question. “She is my mother, daughter, and sister. You people with money, what do you know about relationships? How can you expect them to recognize bonds when they have lost their sense of humanity?” For the past three hours, she had been standing there, neither asking for help nor receiving any. You people think fasting means staying hungry, and making your well-fed relatives break their fast is a way to earn rewards. “If fasting doesn’t awaken empathy in you, it’s not fasting; it’s just hunger.”
I was walking towards the elderly woman with heavy footsteps, contemplating the weight of my faith. The money I handed to Chacha Ji was not mine; it belonged to the poor snack vendor. My money was supporting relationships. Chacha Ji’s money was going to secure Allah’s approval.
As I walked, I wondered why I couldn’t see my mother, sister, and daughter in her. I wished I could see the world through Chacha Ji’s eyes. I wished every master of relationships had those eyes. I wished endless desires followed me. 🍂
A Lesson in Humanity
Chacha Ji’s act of kindness served as a profound lesson in humanity. It is a stark reminder that we should never let the act of fasting be reduced to mere hunger. Instead, it should awaken our empathy, our sense of community, and our responsibility towards one another.
Recognizing the Value of Relationships
Chacha Ji’s wise words shed light on the true value of relationships. In a world obsessed with materialism, it’s easy to forget the importance of our bonds with family and friends. Chacha Ji’s message is clear: relationships are not built on wealth but on love, compassion, and understanding.
The Meaning of Fasting
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it’s about self-control, empathy, and spiritual growth. Chacha Ji’s words make it evident that true fasting should evoke a sense of empathy and the desire to help those in need.
The Power of Selflessness
Chacha Ji’s selfless act of giving away the money I provided for snacks was a testament to the power of selflessness. It serves as a reminder that we should extend our help to those who need it, especially during times of fasting and reflection.
A Glimpse into Chacha Ji’s Perspective
Chacha Ji’s unique perspective on relationships and humanity challenges us to see the world through different eyes. It encourages us to think beyond our own needs and desires and prioritize the welfare of others.
A Wish for a Better World
Chacha Ji’s wish for a world where everyone possesses the ability to see the value of relationships is a powerful one. It calls for a society where compassion and empathy prevail over materialism.
Conclusion
Chacha Ji’s act of kindness and his insightful words left a profound impact on my perspective. Fasting should not merely be about hunger; it should awaken our empathy and remind us of the importance of our relationships. Chacha Ji’s selflessness serves as a model for us all, urging us to help those in need and prioritize the welfare of others. Let us strive to see the world through the eyes of Chacha Ji, where compassion and empathy are valued above all else. 🍂