My Dad and Uncle were sitting at the kitchen table discussing business, but the hushed conversation seemed tense and stressed. Both looked worried. The business, both shops, was what put food on the table and roofs over our heads.

Nana and Papa began the business as two best friends with little money but a great idea. They worked to make the business a success and passed it on to their sons who have done their best to ensure that the business prospered and remained a legacy of the families.

As I watched them, I saw Mama drop his head in dismay and my Dad’s face was etched with worry. I had so many questions, but it was a conversation that was best left to the adults.

The tension in the air was palpable when my granddads walked into the kitchen and joined the younger men at the table. I thought it was best for me to leave, so they could talk freely but my mother nods at me to remain and to continue with the chopping up of vegetables.

After listening to the younger men, Papa, speaks up, “What is the worry about? It’s just one quiet month.”

“But this may last longer than a month.”, Dad says, sounding defeated.

“No behta, you have to put your trust in Allah, all your trust. When Ahmed and I started the business, we had twenty-three mouths to feed between the two of us. This was not easy as the store was just beginning and was not bringing in the amount of money as you do now.”, said Nana, his voice tinged with emotions as he remembered the times gone by.

“Oh yes, those were tough times, but we placed our trust in Allah. This is an unprecedented time but know that Allah never closes His doors to anyone when you reach out to Him.”, he said with much conviction.

“Ja, it will mean making sacrifices. We can start by looking at how we spend at home and in the business too. Luxuries can wait and in sha Allah, we will see better in the future, aameen. But remember too, that we must give in charity to those who are in need as Allah will test us if we think only of ourselves.”, Papa added shaking his head knowingly.

Nana smiles at the two younger men and adds wisely, “It will not be easy but whatever happens, is from Allah. My sons, you are worried about money, when rizq is from Allah only. We will survive if we put our faith and trust in the Almighty.” His sincere words touched us all and seemed to give strength to my Dad and uncle.

It made sense to me now why my Dad always sought advice from the elders, especially with the tough decisions that were thrown at him through life.

Nana and Papa began reminiscing about the days of Apartheid when they were young boys witnessing the hardships and oppression meted to many, but they had survived through it and it had made them stronger.

As I chopped away at the carrots, I realised that it was only in Allah that we could place all our trust and know that it would be rewarded with only the best.

Tawakkul means putting trust in Allah while also implementing the means that have been permitted. Tawaakul is a Muslim’s trust and acceptance of the divine will, which no one knows, understands, or controls except Allah.