Day 1: Be Positive

INTRODUCTION

The psyche is a central force in the human mind that directs the thought and behavior of individuals. It is essential in starting any activity to determine if it will be a success or a failure. To succeed, you must begin with a positive psyche and an energized mindset. For this reason, it is established in Islam as a basic factor in carrying out all actions.

A Muslim has a positive mindset to everything he intends to accomplish. He starts with a good intention strategically mapped out and a successful end in mind. Have a determination to make this Ramadan your best ever. Start strong, keep the tempo and finish well. Set out with a positive mentality to do more in order to achieve more. Plan your activities around the daily prayers. Use every opportunity to indulge in Qur’an recitation and above all, never miss the night prayers.

INSPIRATION

It was narrated on the authority of Amirul Mu’minin, Abu Hafs 'Umar bin al-Khattab, radiyallahu ’anhu, who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu 'alayhi wasallam, say: "Actions are (judged) by intention (niyyah), so each man will have what he intended. Thus, he whose migration (hijrah) was to Allah and His

Messenger, his migration is to Allah and His Messenger; but he whose

migration was for some worldly thing he might gain, or for a wife he might

marry, his migration is to that for which he migrated."

[Al-Bukhari & Muslim]

REFLECTION

From the hadith we learnt the following:

• The intention is the most important aspect of worship. It is more important than the action we want to execute.
• Whatever we intend to do in relation to worship, it must be solely for the sake of Allah alone. This should then be done in line with the prophetic methodology.
• The end does not justify the means. The intention alone is sufficient to earn reward from Allah.

CONCLUSION

We know this is the first day of Ramadan. The masjid will be filled and we’re going to welcome the 'Ramadan Muslims’. Do not make jest of them but say words of encouragement and help develop their positive mindset too. May Allah make it a blissful one for us as we seek His forgiveness and emancipation.