Several years ago an Imam moved to London, United Kingdom. He often took the bus from his home to the downtown area. Some weeks after he arrived, he had occasion to ride the same bus. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a twenty pence (a.k.a 'tuppence') too much change
As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, you better give the twenty pence back. It would be wrong to keep it. Then he thought, "Oh, forget it, it's only tuppence. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway the bus company already gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a gift from Allah (swt) and keep quiet.
"When his stop came, the Imam paused momentarily at the door, then he handed the twenty pence back to the driver and said, "Here, you gave me too much change". The driver with a smile, replied,"Aren't you the new Imam in this area?
I have been thinking lately about going to worship at your Mosque.I just wanted to see what you would do, if I gave you too much change.
"When the Imam, stepped off the bus, his knees became weak and soft, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, and held on for support, and looked up to the heavens and cried:
"Oh Allah, I almost sold You and Islam for twenty pence!"
What we should take from this story is that as Muslims we are seen as strange but constantly we are being tested with our beautiful religion. The non-Muslims look at us and test us as well to see how Muslims really act. We should strive to humble ourselves and constantly represent Islam in the best way possible that is pleasing to Allah aza wa jal. Demonstrate kindness and peace throughout your journey with a pleasant smile and always remember Allah the All-Seeing sees everything.
