3Amir and the Ten Pieces of Advice

In a small village on the edge of an oasis, Amir was loved by everyone for his energy and liveliness. Then he fell seriously ill, and his bed became his only refuge. His smile disappeared, his vitality withered, and his heart filled with despair.

One day the village sage, Sheikh Abdullah, came to visit. He stood beside the bed and said in a compassionate voice, “Amir, life is full of trials, and each of us has our share. But God does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear.”

“What you are going through now is a trial that reveals your patience and faith.”

“God does not burden a soul beyond its capacity.” (Al-Baqarah, 2:286)

His words began to melt the ice that despair had formed around Amir’s heart. Then he offered him ten pieces of advice:

Patience. Be patient and do not despair, for with hardship comes ease.

Gratitude. Thank God in every situation, and smile because you are still alive and provided for.

Remembrance. Remember God often, for in His remembrance hearts find rest.

Contentment. Don’t look at what others have; look at what is in your own hands.

Destiny. What has reached you was never going to miss you, and what has missed you was never going to reach you.

Prayer. Pray and supplicate often, for in them is relief from worry and healing for the heart.

Good character. Be generous with people, even in your hardship.

Charity. Give in charity, even a little, for charity brings blessing to health and life.

Forgiveness. Forgive those who wronged you, for forgiveness is strength and healing for the soul.

Blessings on the Prophet. Don’t forget to send blessings upon the Prophet, peace be upon him, in hard times, for in them is relief from distress.

With each piece of advice, life returned to Amir’s body little by little. The Sheikh prayed for his recovery, and urged him to stay hopeful and trust in God. In time, with faith and by living these words, his smile returned to his face.