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The way we speak about our lives influences how we experience them.

Two people can have the same circumstances, yet one will find joy while the other will only see hardship.

The Prophet ﷺ taught us that gratitude isn't just about feeling thankful—it’s about expressing it.

Allah tells us in the Quran: "And proclaim the blessings of your Lord." (Quran 93:11)

Recognize the small, daily blessings—the sip of water, the warm bed, the kindness of a friend.

It’s about speaking about our lives in a way that honors the goodness Allah has given us.

A Lesson in Perspective

A friend once asked me,

“If we take a glass of water and put a big spoon of salt in it, would you be able to drink it?”

I replied, “No, it’d be hard to drink.”

“How about if I put it in a pitcher of water?”

“I think it will be a little better.”

“What if I put it in a big cauldron of water?”

“It’ll be even easier.”

“And if I put it in a lake?” he asked.

I smiled. “You wouldn’t even notice it.”

“But did the amount of salt change?”

What changed?

The water changed.

The salt represents the struggles in our lives—the hardships, disappointments, and losses.

The water represents gratitude—the awareness of everything that is already good.

The more we expand our gratitude, the less our difficulties overpower us.

Instead of letting problems consume us, we can widen our perspective, allowing gratitude to dilute life’s hardships.

The Power of Words

The Prophet ﷺ taught us:

"Look to those who have less than you, not to those who have more, for that will make you more content with what Allah has given you." (Bukhari & Muslim)

He didn’t just teach gratitude; he embodied it.

His speech reflected the blessings in every moment, even in hardship. That’s why he remained positive in the most challenging situations.

How we speak about our circumstances shapes our reality.

Gratitude is Contagious

Focusing on gratitude doesn't just change us—it transforms our relationships and interactions.

People feel drawn to those who radiate positivity.

Just as negativity spreads, so does gratitude.

The more we practice Alhamdulillah, the more our words and presence uplift those around us.

Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring hardship—it means widening our lens.

When we shift our focus, the weight of our struggles feels lighter.

The next time life feels overwhelming, remember: you can focus on the salt or expand the water.

What will you choose?