Assalaamu Alaikum to all.
May this wonderful month of Dhu’l Hijjah be a great source of blessings and prosperity for Mu’mineen all over the world. This month is uniquely blessed with three Eids and we are extremely grateful for these bounties. Many of us took advantage of fasting, making supplications (du’as), reciting the Holy Qur’an, and giving extra sadaqa (charity). In fact, there are numerous ahadith from the Holy Prophet and his progeny (may prayers and salutations be upon all of them) that one must give charity, however small, each and every day for especially the first nine days of this month and certainly more if one could throughout the month. There are tremendous blessings for those who give including expiation of their sins for the entire year. Fasting on the 9th day of Dhu’l Hijjah has immeasurable rewards too. So, I hope we are among the fortunate ones who took advantage of this month.
Speaking about being generous brings me to a very important point. As you may have noticed, our parking lot has been deteriorating rapidly in the last few years. With the changing weather patterns, excessive traffic in the last 3-5 years (alhumdu lillah) and its age, it is only a matter of few years when we may have to replace the entire parking lot. We received a couple quotes in the last 2 years and while it may sound outlandish, ignoring the situation has not slowed down any less. To resurface the parking lot, especially the areas that have deteriorated, will cost us a little over $70,000. But to redo the same lot will essentially cost us over $15,000 (2015 figures) and perhaps much more. Unfortunately, we do not have the funds to do this vital project in the near future. But with Allah’s help and your generous financial contributions, we want to start the resurfacing project in the next 2 months. Hopefully, in November, when many of the contractors have more time and little work on hand, we may expect some discounted bid from them. I honestly think we cannot ignore this any longer.
Insha’Allah, expect to see a few kids approaching you with donation boxes after the Eid-ul-Adha prayers. Please dig deeply in your pockets, wallets, etc and fill these boxes. Remember to bring your checkbook or drop cash because the Center’s expenses have grown over the years and it will take each and every one to pitch in. Even a small amount from a number of folks will help greatly offset our growing budget. May Allah (swt) bless each and every one and may you and your family have a joyful Eid-ul-Adha.
Eid Mubarak
Jameel Agha