Remembering my father on Tariq's second birthday: a journal entry by MWA's Zabrina Abu Bakar

Today, 17th Ramadan 1434 is Tariq's birthday. He turns 2 years old today, alhamdulillah.

I brought Tariq to visit his Grandpa today morning.

I remembered how happy my dad was when Tariq was born. Especially when so many said Tariq has many of his features.

Last year my dad organized Tariq's birthday's celebration by berbuka puasa (breaking fast) at an orphanage home. We all went there to treat the orphans. It was a very beautiful and memorable day.

God has given my dad 2 years with Tariq but God Willing, I will keep telling Tariq stories about his grandpa so that he'd remember my dad, his grandpa.. as if he is still alive...
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A lesson from my dad on charity: a journal entry by MWA's Zabrina Abu Bakar

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Today is both a happy and sad day for me.

Happy because a few days before turning 2 years old on 17th Ramadan, today is the historic day that Tariq first helped me allocate and organize the household products we wish to donate to the poor.

Sad because while watching him carry those items which some are as heavy as he is, I remembered my dad's words to instill and develop very early inside Tariq 2 things: One is the love for the poor and needy; and second is the spirit of volunteerism.

Dad, if you are here to watch your grandson, you'd be beaming with pride by the sheer dedication and insistent Tariq showed the whole time, alhamdulillah.

I remember what you said dad, 'It is never too early to start...'

Though I doubt you then, I agree with you now...

My dad on how to be a transporter of goodness: a journal entry by MWA's Zabrina Abu Bakar

This morning, my heart saddens as I fill up a donation brochure of one of my favourite NGOs to join their Ramadan donation drive.

I remembered years back, when I first wanted to help them out, I filled up this similar brochure and then asked my dad if he knew the location of the address as stated on the brochure. At that time, online banking was not available and I don't like posting my cheques in mails.

'Yes, I know this place. Its near to our home. Let me send it for you..' he said.