True values are values that are anchored in the solid bedrock of divine revelation. These values alone can bring equilibrium and peace to one's life. Human essence is at its core attuned to the sacred melody of divine illumination. Being present in the material realm diminishes the connection of the divine-seeking human heart to the supernal fountainhead of spiritual inspiration, which it needs to replenish its innate divine light. This sacred connection can be maintained and strengthened only by virtue of observing the true human values that are concordant with the supernal realm of spirituality.
The secular world, however, has untethered its values from the bedrock of divine revelation. In its place it has introduced false measures of value that are, as all things false, susceptible to arbitrary flux. What was perceived as virtuous until yesterday may today be viewed as a vice, and vice versa. This has given rise to many an emotional and psychological malady that threatens the wellbeing of humankind at large.
In this spiritually festering environment, our little loved ones, our children, are most at risk. As times progress and the connection with divine tradition wanes, it is necessary that we take every measure possible to ensure the spiritual wellbeing of our children and to guarantee as far as possible their immunity to this spiritually deleterious environment.
THE ISLAMIC VALUES FOR LITTLE CHILDREN SERIES is a step in this direction. It aims to present a the true values that Islam embodies and cherishes, many of which are shared in common with the other genuine traditions of the world, in a manner that would appeal to and engage children, thereby assisting them in internalizing these values and hence immunizing them against the secular and materialistic disvalues so vehemently and aggressively promoted by the mainstream cultural establishment.
The book at hand--entitled Squirlette's Friends Move Out!--is the first volume in this series. The theme of this book is prayer, and it hopes to teach children how to pray to God and to educate them about how God responds to their prayers. This is achieved of course in a very subtle, smooth, and natural manner so as not to feel oppressively imposing. The message is conveyed in the context of a very inviting story about a little playful squirrel who feels lonely and so turns to God to find a solution to her problem.
We hope that you will find this book and the following volumes in this series effective in helping you teach your little loved ones about the timeless values of Islam.
