Day 12: 2 = 7 + 17 + 31

Guest blogger: Dr. Khala

Since Salma started the 30 days 30 deeds blog last year and the things we are grateful for this Ramadan, I have been thinking a lot about good deeds and gratitude.  The most obvious thing that comes to mind is our children and grand children. What good deeds did we do to have such amazing children, children -in-law and grand children, for whom we are so very grateful. They are smart, kind, fun, and supportive of each other.  They are doing great things in medicine, law, technology, journalism, business, sports, non profit and humanitarian causes. Each in their own way giving back and moving forward. It's a great feeling for me to be able to 'sit back relax and enjoy the flight of life'.

The recent Mateen family reunion did not go according to plan. There were deaths of two beloved members of the extended family, lightning and thunder storms, power outages, restaurant closings, flight delays, cancelled trips, and other mishaps. Nevertheless, the weekend played out the good deeds and gratitude scenario perfectly.  Certain family members opened up their home for several cousins to stay,  others got together food, contributed stories - some happy, some sad - but generally there was laughter, gratitude, and lots of hugs and kisses for the grand children who were present  -- Sabine and Harris, Naba and Azraf, Sulayman and Yusuf, Jaasim and Zayn [some not present but very much in our thoughts  - Saanya and Zayd, Nameer and Jaazil, Imraan, Aleena, and Omar, Ameer and Nabeel, Zara and Ayza, Adam, Noah and Aidan and the 9 grand children in Karachi Saudi Arabia and Derby [England.]

So the Mateen family,  starting with 2 parents 7 children 17 grand children and 31 great grand children Mashaallah are thriving!  What more could we ask for -- Allah ka shukr!

Day 12; Gratitude 12: the Mateen tribe