“He broke her heart; she broke
his iPhone 4G …… I think we all know who cried more!” Few days back I received
this sms and the first thing that came into my mind was that love is a joke now.
Similarly, yesterday I read an online status of one of my friends that was
related to love. The comments below it were ridiculing love by saying things
like it is crazy man’s job or idle person’s interest. I was like what has
happened to all? Why are they taking such an important feeling lightly? The
feeling which is an essence of life, which is as necessary as food, clothing and
shelter in human life.
But I do not mean the teenage love or opposite sex attractions by this. The love
I am talking about is the respectful, sacred relationship that can be between
Allah and his obedient servant, Prophet and his follower, husband and wife,
parent and child, friends or siblings etc. These kinds of love have strong
foundations that nurture day by day with mutual trust, respect and sincerity.
Exchange of gift is a way of expressing love and care that strengthens
relationships. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAWW laid stress on giving presents
by addressing his companions that a mo’min should give gifts to his brother so
that the love among them increases. February 14, celebrated as Valentine’s Day
is considered as a day of love when lovers send greeting cards, red roses,
chocolates and hearts to their valentines. The event has its roots in Roman
Civilization that got some changes by Christians. Somehow this ‘imported’
festival has gained public attention in our society just like other imported
products. In its latest form it is very popular in Pakistan.
The concept of love is commonly associated with feelings of teenagers as well as
adults that they have or opposite sex and or same sex in case of homosexuals
these days. However, it is not the love that has the power to nourish human
life, to give them peace of mind & body and to lead them straight to the path of
righteousness. This power comes only from the love that is pure, sinless,
non-materialistic and right in the light of teachings given by The Creator.
Allah SWT is the first one Who has the right to be loved the most. Then comes
the love of Prophet Muhammad SAWW. Further the list moves towards parents and
siblings, spouses and children, friends and relatives, hence includes animals
and nature.
After prioritizing the list of beloved loved ones, let’s decide to express our
love daily without specifying it to a day like Feb, 14. Moreover, the style of
expression can be different from spending large amount of money on useless
hearts, roses and cards. It can be financial help for needy people (neighbors
and relatives) for the love of Allah SWT, practice of Sunnah for the love of
Prophet SAWW, respect and trust for parents, a hearty smile for spouse always,
or useful presents for appreciation of siblings and friends on their
achievements. On the whole let’s move towards the true Love...