What my five-year-old has taught me (so far)

In the name of God, Most Merciful, Most Kind,

* * *

In a few days, my eldest daughter will clasp my hand, and we'll head into the bright space that is her new school.

A whole world of learning unfolds before her. Or should I say 'us'. Already, I've been amazed at all the little one has taught me, including knowledge rooted in prophetic tradition, though she doesn't even realize it:

1- Give people the benefit of the doubt.

"Maybe they just didn't know," suggests my daughter, as she tilts her head to one side, eyes wide. We could be talking about anything - the garbage strewn on the street, the bad driving all 'round, the images of scantily clad moms in my parenting magazines. She'll find an excuse for one and all, reminding me of my own faults on this one, especially considering this lovely saying from Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him:

“If you hear about your brother something of which you disapprove, seek from one to seventy excuses for him. If you cannot find any, convince yourselves that it is an excuse you do not know.”Narration reported by al-Bayhaqî.


2- Be patient with li'l ones.

When the youngest of my two wants to change outfits for the fourth time in a few hours, it is my eldest who guides her back to her room to choose the clothing. She finds a way to put up with her persistent fashion needs, and I have to swallow my frustration. "Mom, she is just a baby," she says of her two-year-old sibling. Yes, sort of.

The Prophet said: 'He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our little ones and respect to our elders.' Reported in At-Tirmidhî.

3- Housework is fun.

Okay, I doubt I'll ever internalize this one, but you've got to admit, soaping up dishes isn't all bad if you really lather it up. "Mom, look how shiny this is," she'll say after spending five minutes soaping up a teaspoon. Ahh, to be young and without a care in the world. Why she wants to scrub the toilet, though, is beyond me.

"Cleanliness is half of faith," said the Prophet, according to an authentic narration.

Yeah, I know. It's the bubbles.

* * *

Speaking of learning, I was surprised to hear a recorded announcement running over the loudspeakers at our local grocery store encouraging parents to read to their kids. After complaining about the lack of commitment to reading in the Arab/ Muslim world a few posts back, I have to admit that I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions. And I'm scheduled to visit a library one of these days with a lady who's actually been inside one here. Can't wait!