Ashura

The good treatment of orphans is mentioned many times in the Qur'an. Generally, as a society we don't really give much thought about orphans. We tend to neglect them and that's a terrible thing but here's one of many efforts by Malaysians who want to remind us of the role we play in helping the needy. Every year in the city of Malacca the day of Ashura is "celebrated" by inviting orphans and widows to  receive gifts and donations from the community. This year 120 young orphans - from babies to elementary school students - were invited along with their families. My family and I drove down to Malacca on Saturday and took this opportunity to follow the sunnah (tradition) of Prophet Muhammad who advocated kind treatment towards orphans. He was reported to have said: "The best house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are well treated. The worst house among the Muslims is the house in which orphans are ill treated. I and the guardian of the orphan will be in the Garden like that," indicating his two fingers.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) once advised a man: "Would you like that your heart becomes soft and that you acquire what you need? Be merciful with the orphans, pat his head and feed him from what you eat." {At-Tabarani}

I saw some of the widows who came and brought their infants. Some of them couldn't hold back their tears and I was fighting hard to hold mine in. Who knows? I could be a widow someday. I pray it won't happen but I don't know my fate and what trials lie ahead.

Colourful dadih (yoghurt) donated by a generous soul and distributed to the orphans.


At night our family friends took us to Pak Putra Restaurant to have what they claimed as the best naan bread ever. And they were right. We ordered the double cheese naan and it was delectable! The tandoori chicken was also  tender and juicy. Alhamdulillah for the "little" blessings in life. We are able to enjoy a lovely dinner out with family and friends while there are people in the world who worry about bombs and drones. Crazy times. I pray relief will come soon and justice will prevail in this life and the hereafter. Ameen.

Naan bread and tandoori chicken in the making. 

Tandoori, check. Spinach gravy, check. Potato gravy, check.

Double cheese naan, check! 

If you're ever in Malacca you HAVE to go to Pak Putra Restaurant and try their yummy food. It's near Casa del Rio Hotel. I'm glad we went to Malacca this weekend. Work has been really hectic and it's nice to get out of KL for a break. I hope once I settle into the routine I'll be able to blog more often. For now weekdays are just out of the question. *sad face* 

Hope you guys like these weekend snapshots and had a great weekend yourselves.