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Dear Bernard,

Thank you for your inspiring writing. Your reflections remind us of the beautiful connection between nature and mental well-being, a theme that resonates deeply within the teachings of Islam. Just as you find solace and healing in your garden, we are taught that the natural world serves as a sign of Allah’s mercy and an avenue for reflection and tranquility.

In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of nature and its role in our lives. He said, “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird or a human or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift for him” (Bukhari). Your gardening journey exemplifies this concept of giving back to nature and the community, showing us how caring for the earth is an act of worship.

Let your therapeutic experience in the garden inspire others to reconnect with nature, fostering a love for creation that can benefit both mental health and spiritual growth. I encourage you Bernard, to share your insights with a broader audience—perhaps by starting a community garden project or writing more articles that explore the healing power of nature.

May your gardening endeavors continue to flourish and bring peace to your heart, just as Allah reminds us in the Quran: “And He it is who has made for you from the trees green, so We bring forth from it a harvest” (Quran 36:80).

Let us cultivate a greater appreciation for the world around us—imagine how many lives could be touched by the beauty of nature!

Mohamed, Ph.D

What will your next gardening experiment be? 🌱