From: Shariq Qureshi
“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions” – Dalai Lama.
Happiness is a feeling we all chase. We all take different avenues to navigate ourselves toward that feeling. That treacherous terrain provides many obstacles as we chase that elusive desire to enter that state of happiness. However, there is no right answer as we have all been born unique. One may consider happiness to be based on their wealth or material goods. Another may seek happiness in friends and family. Others may seek happiness in aiding those in need.
As Prophet Muhammad, on him be peace, said, “Wealth is in the heart and poverty is in the heart. Whoever is wealthy in his heart will not be harmed no matter what happens in the world. Whoever is impoverished in his heart will not be satisfied no matter how much he has in the world. Verily, he will only be harmed by the greed of his own soul.”
It is not wrong to have material wealth, but true happiness comes from finding ways to fill the soul by helping others in any way possible. This can be done regardless of wealth. Giving back is as unique as ourselves. It does not always require volunteering or donating. Here are some ways you can give back this Giving Tuesday.
Give Time
Volunteering is a way to give something back while making a difference in the communities around you. This can mean food drives, clothing distributions, and, given the current health crisis, PPE drives. The right opportunity can bring so much inner peace. Get involved here.
Bring Awareness
With COVID-19 cases still on the rise, volunteering can be difficult for those who are at a higher risk of contracting the virus. Lend your voice as an advocate for causes and issues you care about. Use your social media, blogs, YouTube, or other platforms to express what is important to you to help make the world a better place. Make sure to follow us on our social platforms, too!
Donations
In almost every community, nonprofit organizations work tirelessly to make a difference. This Giving Tuesday, you can donate to a cause that matters to you. The Zakat Foundation of America is currently helping distribute 1 million tons of fuel sources so every child in the camps of Lebanon, Syria and Turkey can stay warm this winter. Your gift of $150 can keep a family warm.
Give Goods
Work within your community or a with a nonprofit to organize a donation drive. Whether it be for PPE, books, clothes or food, you can make an incredible difference. Make sure to work within guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or nonprofits themselves. Learn how you can give back here.
The Gift of a Smile
Kindness is a gift that keeps on giving. Whether it’s helping an elderly neighbor bring their groceries home or giving a compliment to a stranger, your little actions can be immense to someone else.
Prophet Muhammad, on him be peace said: “Smiling to your brother is an act of charity.”
So, don’t forget to keep smiling, even under your mask, and make a difference this Giving Tuesday.
