A couple years ago, my siblings and I decided to go to Panera Bread for Iftar. This was my first time going there, so I was excited to try the food. I ordered a turkey sandwich because it looked delicious on the menu, and it came with a side of soup. It was minutes before iftar, so my mouth was watering just waiting for the order.
I took my food to-go because my siblings wanted to eat at the restaurant next door. Finally, it was time to eat. I took the biggest bite, and at first, it tasted delicious. When I went in for another bite, something tasted off. I could taste an extra ingredient, so I opened the sandwich and looked inside. Suddenly, my heart dropped. I saw BACON.
Immediately, I threw the sandwich down, and tears started flowing out of my eyes. I spit out the piece in my mouth, and I felt this huge sense of guilt. My siblings tried to calm me down by explaining to me that it was an accident and that Allah (SWT) is forgiving. They were so kind that they even offered their food to me. I was still in hysteria, and I was crying my eyes out. The thought that kept repeating in my mind was, “Not only did I eat Pork, but I ate it during Ramadan”.
After some time went by, I finally calmed down because of what my siblings kept telling me. They constantly reminded me that everyone makes mistakes and sins. I have to remember that Allah (SWT) is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful. I then wiped my tears, prayed for forgiveness, and shared another meal with my siblings.
I will never forget that day because although I did commit a sin accidently, I was reminded of how beautiful Islam is. I was reminded that “Indeed, Allah forgives all sins” (39:53). We need to repent immediately, and hope for Allah’s mercy. By seeking Allah’s forgiveness, not only are our sins forgiven, but our worldly life is filled with blessings too. Yes, I made a mistake, but it taught me to be cautious when ordering. It taught me to stay calm and not panic during these situations. Most of all, it taught me the value of forgiveness and reaching out to Allah (SWT) when we commit a sin. Whether major or minor, may we all be forgiven for our sins. Ameen.
Even if your sins are countless, Allah’s (SWT) mercy is endless. Indeed Allah (SWT) forgives all sins. (Quran 39:53)
Did you ever eat Pork accidently, share your story below and how you coped with the situation.
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What a story, and inspiration on the forgiveness part. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you!
Well unless your Panera exists outside North America, their turkeys’ aren’t Halal (zabihah), so you were basically eating two haram meats. Be mindful as you eat anywhere meat is provided to check if it was zabihah slaughtered or at least kosher (with some restrictions with those too).
Allah’s forgiveness is boundless, but it comes with conditions:
And of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil deeds until death faces one of them and he says: ‘Now I repent;’ nor of those who die while they are disbelievers. For them We have prepared a painful torment” [al-Nisaa’ 4:17-18]
Some condition of in order for forgiveness to be accepted:
And God knows best. May He guide us all to His path.