During the Friday sermon, Imams emphasised the importance of patience and understanding when caring for elderly parents. They urged children to entertain their parents’ whims and fancies with love, advising against scolding, admonishing, or intimidating them, as such actions can deeply hurt their feelings.
As individuals age, they naturally seek attention and affection from their children. The Imams highlighted that senior citizens have the right to be loved and respected, and each person should embrace their role as a guardian to the elderly, particularly those suffering from illnesses that may affect their physical health or mental capacity.
The sermon pointed out that the responsibility of caring for the elderly should not rest solely on the government. Children are encouraged to take on greater responsibility for their aging parents, viewing them not as burdens but as valued family members whose welfare should never be neglected.
The Imams also reflected on the natural progression of life, which encompasses various phases, including the stages in a mother’s womb, childhood, adulthood, and eventually aging. They reminded the congregation that as we grow older, we inevitably experience a decline in physical strength and emotional resilience compared to our youth.
Ultimately, the message was clear: compassion and care for the elderly are not just duties but moral imperatives that reflect our respect and love for our parents. – AZLAN OTHMAN
