Paradise Under Your Feet — Page 5
Chapter 1: The Role of Ahmadi Muslim Mothers 5 “ An Ahmadi woman is indeed quite capable of fulfilling the Holy Prophet Muhammad ’ s (saw) expectations, of creating an example of paradise in this world. She should be a source of such attraction and charm for her home whereby she becomes an axis and the members of her family rotate around her. They do not find comfort outside but find peace and tranquility in their homes. ” 1. 6 MOTHERS AS ROLE MODELS There is a well-known saying: “ Children are great imitators. So, give them something great to imitate. ” That is exactly what Ahmadi Muslim mothers have to do to raise righteous children. Children are always observing the elders around them. When they are toddlers they start mimicking the behavior of those around them and parents will enjoy the way a two-year-old starts to make gestures like the mother or the father. Soon people start saying to the mother, “ Your daughter talks just like you. ” Children are like sponges and they absorb everything from their surroundings. Therefore, mothers have to be mindful of their own behavior because even if children may not appear to be listening to their parents, they are sure to imitate their behavior. So, if a mother wants to raise a righteous Ahmadi Muslim child, it is essential that she has love for Allah Almighty and His Messenger (saw), is true to her Bai ’ at (oath of allegiance) to the Promised Messiah (as) and shows respect and obedience for Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih (aba) and Nizam-e-Jama ’ at (central administration of the Jama ’ at). She has to establish Salat and recitation of the Holy Qur ’ an in her home, be steadfast in her Purdah , refrain from falsehood, backbiting and gossip, show respect and love to her husband and family, and create a loving and harmonious home. Although fathers are not exempt, mothers have to be acutely aware that as they are the most important person in their children ’ s lives, all