LESSON OF THE DAY 606

Ayah of the Day:
When We said to the angels, "Bow to Adam," they bowed, except Iblis; he was one of the sprites, and he disobeyed the direction of his Lord. So do you take him and his heirs for patrons instead of Me, though they are your enemies? What a wretched exchange for those in wrong! [18: 50]

Hadith of the Day:
In every generation of my nation there will be those who outrun others (in doing good). [Tirmidhi]

Wise Quote of the Day:
Generosity is doing justice without requiring justice. [Imam al Junayd]

Guidance of the Day:
Responsibilities toward children: We have different responsibilities to our children than to other adults. We are financially responsible for our children; we are responsible for providing for their material and physical needs. Our children need to be taught how to help themselves--from tying their shoes to making social plans. They need our love and guidance. They need consistent enforcement of boundaries, once we've established limits. They need a supportive, nurturing environment in which to grow. They need help learning values.

But we are not responsible for controlling our children. Contrary to popular belief, controlling doesn't work. Discipline and nurturing do -- if combined. We need to respond to our children in a responsible way and hold them accountable for their actions at an age-appropriate level. We need only do our best. Seek balance. Seek wisdom. Seek not to have control, but to own our power as people who are parents. [The Language of Letting Go]

Food for Thought:
Some tension is necessary for the soul to grow, and we can put that tension to good use. We can look for every opportunity to give and receive love, to appreciate nature, to heal our wounds and the wounds of others, to forgive, and to serve.