Caring for the needy

The Islamic faith is all about caring and sharing and, as Muslims, we should take advantage of the holy month of Ramadan to share with others, particularly the poor and needy.

In fact, it has been said that when you provide someone fasting with an Ifatr (fast breaking meal) you would have the same reward like him or her, and this would reduce nothing from your own reward.

Therefore, we encourage all Muslims and even non-Muslims alike to take advantage of this unique opportunity to share their portion of wealth with those less privileged.

In fact, the month of Ramadan is full of opportunities for Muslims to receive Allah's mercy and forgiveness. Giving alms or charity during the month is one way of achieving this.

Some institutions and individuals have already started doing so here in The Gambia, and we know there are several others who can do more.

We, therefore, urge others to follow-suit to support needy Muslims in this special month.

The US Embassy, for instance, recently dished out rice, sugar, among other food items, to the communities of Sifoe and Batokunku in the Western Region.

This is a laudable initiative, and we encourage others who are able to help needy communities to consider doing similar things.

You can consider giving out rice, sugar, bread, oil, and milk, among others, since these are highly needed commodities during the month of Ramadan.

We also have a word of caution for those families who do cook more than they can consume during Ramadan, to put an end to unnecessary throwing of leftovers.

This is very bad, and you must stop the practice and adopt the culture of caring and sharing with neighbours.

Remember that the more you are good at sharing with others the more you earn.

Why not take advantage of this month, and have your sins wipe out by Allah, by caring for the poor and needy and, above all, observing the fasting month with total submission to the will of Allah.

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."

Leo F. Buscaglia