Let me begin by saying, Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah).

September is a month that marks alot of things for us this year so far.

• It coincided with the beginning of our new Islamic year.
• It marked the beginning of Spring here in South Africa.
• It also marked the beginning of many functions, both indoor as well as outdoors, from proposals, engagements and weddings, to fundraising initiatives and awareness workshops, etc.
• Today is World Gratitude Day!

These past weekends in particular, have highlighted the plight of so many of our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters in Syria and Lebanon, as well as in Northern Africa. It affected me in such a way, that I needed to check myself, as I seem to easily fall into a depression by feeling useless in helping to assist these men, women and children.

To this end, I have decided to begin a Gratitude Journal to express just what I’m grateful for, which will be updated from time to time. I may not always post it online, but I will definitely be writing it down in my Journal. Below are some of the entries I have written:

• Alhamdulillah, I woke up this morning.
• Alhamdulillah, I am blessed to be a Muslimah.
• Alhamdulillah, I have a comfortable home, with a roof over my head, clean running, drinkable water in the taps, food to eat, and a comfortable and cosy bed.
• Alhamdulillah, for my body having the agility and ability to move, and do all that I need to do.
• Alhamdulillah for my health.
• Alhamdulillah for my family, near and far. May Allah bless them immensely, Aameen.
• Alhamdulillah, for everything Allah has blessed me with, and for everything Allah has not blessed me with. There is wisdom is not having everything we want, no matter how much we want it.

There is so much more that I could list but for today and right now:

• I am grateful for the soft, cool breeze flowing through my home.
• I am grateful for my ears, as I listen to my favourite radio show, while hearing the doves and pigeons cooing outside.
• I am grateful for the safe environment I am in currently, during this unrestful period in Johannesburg and South Africa in particular.
• I am grateful for every breath, every touch, every laugh, every hug, every smile, every happiness and every experience that has come my way.

Have you begun your Gratitude Journal? Has it had a positive effect on you or in your life?

We’d love to hear your thoughts and opinions on journaling, so do comment below.