During the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday at Andrew’s Primary School in Nadi, Al Hamd managing director Ashfaaq Khan emphasized the importance of kindness and respect in his address to teachers, visitors, and students. Mr. Khan, who also serves as a trustee of the school, described Prophet Muhammad as a universal role model.
In his speech, Mr. Khan reflected on the life of Prophet Muhammad, highlighting the challenges he faced from an early age. Born in Mecca, he lost his father before his birth and was orphaned at six when his mother died. Despite these hardships, he became known for his honesty and kindness, earning the moniker “Al-Amin,” which translates to “the trustworthy.”
Today, billions around the globe admire and follow his teachings, illustrating how someone from the deserts of Arabia, who encountered numerous adversities, could inspire such a vast following. Mr. Khan underlined the significance of understanding Prophet Muhammad’s character.
He pointed out that Prophet Muhammad taught us to extend kindness and respect to everyone, regardless of their background. He showed affection to children and enjoyed playing with his grandchildren, Hasan and Husayn. His guidance, “Be kind to the young ones and respect the elders,” underscores the value of these virtues.
Moreover, the Prophet was deeply concerned about the welfare of the less fortunate and consistently encouraged helping those in need. His commitment to honesty and promise-keeping serves as a vital lesson in truthfulness, and his extraordinary patience during challenging times exemplifies resilience.
Prophet Muhammad’s belief in equality, regardless of race or social status, remains a crucial lesson today. He also championed the pursuit of knowledge, a practice that enriches our understanding of the world and fosters personal growth.
Mr. Khan noted that Prophet Muhammad’s journey illustrates that anyone can reach great heights through kindness, honesty, and hard work, regardless of their beginnings. His strength and determination in the face of difficulties provide a powerful message about overcoming obstacles and making a positive impact.
In closing, Mr. Khan encouraged everyone to embody the compassion of Prophet Muhammad in their daily lives, whether through assisting friends, committing to honesty, or treating everyone with respect. These small acts, he stated, can create significant positive change.
He expressed gratitude to the head teacher, staff, and committee members for organizing the event, and thanked the attentive students, urging them to work together towards a kinder future.