Value your relationships

By Barrister Olori-Aje Adm

Today, let us broaden the scope of our discussion beyond marital relationships to include our relationships with others in general.
On this blessed day of Jum‘ah, let us remind ourselves of the wisdom in valuing human relationships. In life, no one truly succeeds alone. Allah (SWT) has placed people in our paths as means of support, guidance, and connection. At every stage of our journey, it is often through another person that Allah, The Provider, opens a door or mentions our names in the right gathering, or guides us to opportunities we could never reach by ourselves.
Never underestimate anyone. The person you meet today may become the lifeline you need tomorrow. Every relationship is like a door, while you walk through some often, others may remain closed for years but, it is wise to keep the key to every door safe and accessible.
Even when differences arise in your relationship, don’t decide to leave a true relationship for few faults. Whatever you do, always pray for the ability to see your own shortcomings and never lose sight of that. Never get so carried away to be pointing fingers when you too have abscesses that needs tending.
Whenever it becomes inevitable to close the doors of relationship, endeavour to do so with gentleness and not with fire. Do not burn bridges of relationship out of anger or pride. Always remember that, nobody is perfect and in the end, affection is always greater than perfection.
Know that life is unpredictable, and the very one you turn away today may be the one Allah (SWT) will use to lift your ladder tomorrow.
Maintain goodness in your relationships because, our beloved Prophet (SAW) said:

“The most beloved of people to Allah (SWT) are those who are most beneficial to others–”
So, respect people, nurture relationships, and protect the trust Allah, The Most High has placed between your hearts because, each person you encounter in your life journey, is a potential key to your success and a test of your character.
As we attend to our Jum’ah prayers (Salat) today, may Allah, The Sustainer of everything, beautify our relationships, mend those that are broken, and keep our hearts free from pride and bitterness. May He open for us, doors of goodness through people we know and those we do not know, and may He make us, doors of khayr for others.