The Cry of a Child
Early in the morning I rise.
To seek livelihood because my father died
I am eight years going on nine
I work my bones and body tired
At night I silently cry
Oh Allah, send your help
Hear the cry of this humble orphan child.

by: Khadijah Muhammad

Attending Jumu’ah, we see the bright and playful faces of the little children of our communities. All that seems to be on their minds are thoughts to feel loved, give love and have a playfully good time. On the adults’ faces, we see reflexive, unconscious smiles at the children’s theatrics as they run haphazardly from one adult to the next. It would never occur to us that this scene of happy children can play out any other way or we would be horrified and race to protect them, Insha Allah.

I would like to introduce to you a child who is just eight years old and would soon be nine. This child has been forced into the role of provider for his family of four since the death of his father. Gone from his face is the blissful smile of carefree happiness that is part and parcel of the personality of eight year olds. His is replaced by stress and strain as his tiny body is worked hard to provide for his family. His young undeveloped body is forced to develop chest muscles to compensate for the load it must carry. It is heart breaking to watch this child work as an adult. He should be running around getting scraped knees, riding a bike, playing kick ball, or wrestling with his siblings or friends. Our beloved Prophet (S.A.W) adored children. He taught us that good and sincere actions towards children (especially the orphans), will earn us Jannah, and so let us do our part for it will benefit us greatly in the end. AH has already reached out to this child at our feast and through our distribution of food project, but much more has to be done to save this child and his family. Now, you have heard one child’s story , but if you can see him, you will be shocked to see such a young child rising to the role that life’s circumstances carved out for him. I would like to leave with you the words of this poem created especially for this child. May Allah reward you for all the help you may provide, Insha Allah.