Fighting the age

"The woman who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before." [Albert Einstein]

In the gloom of this day, while searching for a rainbow, there is a thought in the scenery of my day that often taunts me. It does not come from the degradation of nature, nor from the passing rain but it comes from the changing society, the people who are the custodians of nature. Mannerisms or etiquette (أدب) is a word that is vaguely present these days and if we are unable to honour ourselves, how will we bring out the best in others?

When I was growing up, my mother always insisted, a lady can only call herself a lady if she possessed good etiquette presented within the norms of culture. She insisted that as a lady we should always be willing, kind, soft, patient and elegant. When sitting down to dinner it is absolutely necessary that you maintain your usual seat, when serving your guest you should approach and deliver from and with the right or for that matter when sitting for salaat that you leave your pride and perfume behind;  only a smile, your heart and clean clothing is necessary.

In your courtesy, it is highly repugnant to show dislike but rather womanly to be appreciative and supportive. Yes my mother was one of those woman who insisted that even when your rage was erupting or your cheeks suffering from a lack of oxygen, that you absolutely should hold your tongue and change the topic." You are after all a woman who will one day lead a home, be supportive of a husband who will echo your ways in his reply because he is not effeminate hence adopting your balance whilst your growing ones look to you for their cultural values."

Not only is the violation of good manners inexcusable on ordinary grounds, but it is sinful. When, therefore, parents and guardians and teachers would inspire the young with a desire for the manners of good society, it is not to be thought that they are accomplishments which may be accepted or rejected. WE are all bound to observe the laws of politeness. It is the expression of good-will and kindness. It promotes both beauty in the woman who possesses it, and happiness in those who are about her. It is a religious duty, a part of our sunnah to possess good mannerisms. Those who tend to follow the grace of good hearty etiquette are far removed from the need for greediness or pomp for you see class or elegance exists to not only create a simplicity in us but to promote the purity of attitude in everything we do. 

I do so hope that while this world changes, that we may preserve such mannerisms which promote culture while fostering good deeds; and that it is those qualities that keeps us away from the evil inclinations that are so ripe in our day.

Live simply void of materialism, Love with your heart not lips, Let be what you can not have, take care of nature (it is what makes us appreciative of our creator), Give with Respect, Share & Help with Sincerity, Promote and Savour Goodness be it at home or to the next and never forget to always seek Refuge in Allah from the whisperings of Shaitan!