Cleansing the Water-jug

 Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim said, “Deeds without sincerity are like a traveler who carries in his water-jug dirt. The carrying of it burdens him and it brings no benefit.” If we want to fill our hearts with sincerity, we must empty them of dishonesty, untrustworthiness, carelessness, deceit — all things that defile the soul. This is done step-by-step as a lifelong dedication, examining and reflecting on our beliefs, attitudes, motives, words, and actions. Yet, we never lose sight of being kind and patient with ourselves no matter how strictly we strive for discipline and rigor in our efforts to transform the self and purify the heart of everything egotistic and false.

As we correct our errors, hone our habits, and achieve our goals, faith is fortified and the elegance of sincerity is more and more manifest. The water-jug has been cleansed of all dirt and what remains is crystal clear, revitalizing water by which our own and others’ thirst for human maturity and magnanimity — a fully developed generosity and nobility of character — can be satisfied.                 — Livingeman Staff