The Art of Grateful Living
In a world that constantly makes us feel like we want more, own more, and upgrade what we already have, living with gratitude takes a moment of reflection - a choice to pause and say, “What I have is enough.” At Zikkies, we see this mindset in action every day - not just in words, but through the simple acts of giving, choosing secondhand, and caring for the community.
Gratitude in Islam is more than a feeling; it’s a way of life.
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you…”
(Qur’an 14:7)
This verse from the Quran reminds us that gratitude brings barakah (blessing). When we’re content with what we have - Allah SWT increases us not just in things, but in peace, connection, and purpose.
How Thrifting and Donating Teaches Gratitude
Thrifting encourages us to see value where others may not - to appreciate the beauty in pre-loved items and to give them a new home. It pushes back against the pressure of fast fashion and mass consumption, instead encouraging thoughtful, intentional living.
Donating, on the other hand, is an act of gratitude in motion. It says, “I have enough - more than enough - and I want to share it with someone else.” When people walk into Zikkies to drop off bags of clothing or boxes of homewares, it’s often with that thought of wanting their belongings to benefit or be of use to someone else, rather than collect dust or end up in landfill.
A Moment at Zikkies that Stood Out
There’s a woman who comes by Zikkies every few weeks, a quiet character that’s become a familiar face. She always arrives with a bag of clothes - neatly folded, outgrown by her boys - and hands it to us with a warm smile before making her way through the store.
She never rushes. Some days she finds something - a hoodie for one of her sons, a book for herself. Other days, she leaves with empty hands. But every time, without fail, she gives first - and before she leaves, she quietly gives a small money donation, saying, “Just to help keep this place going.”
Her visits remind us that grateful living is a cycle: receiving, sharing, and appreciating what we have in each season of life. It’s not just about letting go of what no longer fits - it’s about choosing to give with intention and live with gratitude.
Practicing Gratitude the Zikkies Way
Here are a few ways you can nurture gratitude in your life - with a little help from your local thrift store:
• Practice mindful shopping: Next time you visit Zikkies, pause before buying. Ask yourself - Do I love this item? Will it bring value to my life? Choosing slowly and intentionally leads to a deeper appreciation of what we own.
• Declutter with purpose: When sorting through your belongings and deciding on what to donate, give intentionally, knowing the items you are giving can benefit and bring joy to others.
• Talk to your children about giving: Encourage them to donate toys or clothes they no longer use - have them pick one item from their toy box to donate. It teaches them early on that what we have is a trust, and sharing it is part of being grateful.
At Zikkies, we believe that grateful living isn’t just about saying Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to God) - it’s about living it, choosing it, and passing it on.
So next time you thrift, or pack a bag to donate, know that you’re not just making space - you’re making a difference. And maybe, just maybe, you’re also making room for a little more barakah (blessing) in your life.
Want to practice grateful living with us? Come visit Zikkies - where every item tells a story, and every story reminds us to be thankful.