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Yesterday I was invited by Colours of Islam and Yorkhill Children’s Foundation to a unique and colorful ‘Children’s fashion show’ event here in Glasgow – where cultures and faiths were brought together in support of sick children at Yorkhill Hospital.  This was an excellent “good cause” extravaganza organised by the volunteers of Colours of Islam and the hospital foundation. There were activities for all the family- stalls, auction, prizes, and surprises, food, and of course the fashion show but most of all a tremendous will and morale and financial support for the sick children of Yorkhill hospital.

I was asked to speak on the concept of giving in Islam and encourage the audience to donate. There are needs everywhere. Perhaps we are guilty of overlooking the society we live in? I must admit most of my fundraising appeals are for the communities far away- in Kashmir, Pakistan, Haiti, Sudan and so on …

Although we live in a country where most basic needs are answered but certainly it is not a paradise. It is not hard to find people living under poverty and human suffering at our own door step here in Scotland/UK. A child feeling unwell in Yorkhill hospital is not feeling any different from a child feeling unwell in Kashmir or Haiti, and the mother feels the anguish and pain no less. In fact we are fortunate that we live in a country where we have proper medical facilities and resources that give greater hope of diagnosis and recovery.

The children are the future of every society. We must share common ground and demonstrate our compassion towards children, vulnerable in particular- bring smile and laughter to sick children’s faces. Distraction can alleviate a multitude of health problems even if only for a short period. Play helps children forget their illness and can provide relief from pain and distress.

I must say the volunteers behind the terrific fashion show did everything voluntarily- from organising and delivering the event, training the children, securing beautiful eastern and western costumes and putting up a truly family extravaganza for all to enjoy. Well done to everyone involved, great team effort.