Life is delicate — a fragile thread that can shift from abundance to adversity in the blink of an eye. Today, we may stand in the warmth of prosperity, health, and stability; tomorrow, those same comforts might be taken from us. The rhythm of life reminds us that nothing here is permanent — not our wealth, not our status, not even our strength.

The phrase, “But for the grace of God, there go I,” is often attributed to the sixteenth-century reformer John Bradford, who is said to have spoken those words upon seeing prisoners being led to execution.

It was a simple acknowledgement of truth — that any one of us could find ourselves in the same position if not for divine mercy. These words carry a quiet humility that speaks across time and faiths: we are all sustained not merely by effort, but by grace.

In Islam, there is a similar reminder in the words of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh): “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 13; Sahih Muslim, 45)

This is a call to empathy — to feel the joys and sorrows of others as though they were our own. It asks us to look beyond ourselves and remember that our comfort is not a guarantee, but a trust. When others are afflicted, their suffering should awaken within us gratitude, compassion, and a desire to help.

Prosperity, too, is a test. It can so easily lead to complacency if we begin to believe that our fortune is self-made and secure. Yet the Qur’an reminds us: “And it is He who makes you successors upon the Earth and raises some of you above others in degrees, that He may test you through what He has given you.” (Koran 6:165)

Every blessing carries a responsibility — to act with humility, generosity, and awareness of those less fortunate. Wealth and comfort are not rewards to be hoarded, but opportunities to do good.

As we witness hardship around the world, our thoughts and prayers turn especially towards our neighbours in Jamaica, who have faced devastating loss and uncertainty. Their struggle reminds us how quickly life can change, and how deeply connected we all are.

In times like these, our faith calls us not only to feel compassion but to express it through action — by contributing to humane efforts, relief aid, and community rebuilding.

Whether through trusted charities, local drives, or simply lending a helping hand, our collective support can ease another’s burden and bring light to those standing in the shadow of loss. Each small act of kindness ripples outward, becoming a form of worship and gratitude in itself.

Let us never grow indifferent to the pain of others. Let our prayers be sincere, our actions kind, and our hearts soft. May we continue to stand with those who are suffering, extending support in whatever way we can.

For life’s beauty lies not in how securely we stand, but in how gently we hold one another through its storms. And so we whisper, with humility and gratitude: “But for the grace of God — there go I.”

The fragility of life is real and we must answer the call to humility and compassion wherever and whenever needed.

Let us pray:

O Allah, make us among those who help one another in goodness.

Grant us hearts full of mercy that feel the pain of others.

Let our deeds be a source of relief for the needy,

and a means of spreading compassion among Your servants on earth.

O Allah, make us brothers and sisters in humanity as we are in creation and do not let us be heedless of the struggles of others.

May we always remember too; that charity begins at home.

Ameen.

On the note that charity begins at home — this is a stark reminder that we must assist those here in Bermuda first and foremost. Let us rally behind our first Olympian medallist, our very own Clarence Hill — a renowned Bermudian who brought us our first Olympic medal, a senior citizen, and a true son of the soil. Let us make sure his remaining years are filled with dignity and stability. It is our duty — a reflection of who we are as a people.

Bermuda have a blessed week.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam