What still works, still matters

(2 mins read)

source: unsplash

I’ve always had a habit of using things till their very end. 

A pen stays with me until the ink completely runs out. Shoes are worn until the soles give up. Clothes are used until they fade beyond color recognition or no longer fit. I use my devices (especially my phone) until they absolutely stop working, often trying to fix them before giving up. Old notebooks are filled till the last page, plastic bags are reused again and again, and sweet boxes are repurposed to store spices or small items. It’s not about being stingy; it’s more about the satisfaction that comes from fully using something that once served a purpose.

This way of living reminds me of the Arabic word Isrāf, which means wastefulness; using more than necessary, or discarding things that still have value. Islam gently teaches us to avoid this. 

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once passed by his companion Sa’d (may Allah be pleased with him), who was making ablution (wudu) using a lot of water.
The Prophet asked, “What is this extravagance, O Sa’d?”
Sa’d replied, “Can there be any extravagance in ablution?”
The Prophet said, “Yes, even if you are on the bank of a flowing river.”
(Source: Ibn Majah)

That teaching is within my core memories. Even in abundance, we are taught to be mindful, to not let our habits slip into carelessness. It’s a way of honoring what we already have and showing gratitude by not taking it for granted.

Over the years, I’ve noticed how slowing down consumption brings peace. It quiets the urge to constantly replace, and makes space for contentment. A shirt worn many times carries stories. A reused notebook feels complete. A repaired device teaches patience. And somewhere in this small practice lies a deeper truth: that living intentionally is far more fulfilling than constantly chasing the new. I’ve shared this with friends, and now with you. Maybe it’ll stay with you too. Not as advice, but as a quiet reminder, the next time you think of replacing something that still works. 

Use what you have. And use it a little longer.
Not because you have to.
But because you can.

Let’s try to live with less noise.
Let’s try to give everything we have its due.
Let’s not waste.