The passage of time and cultural change not only shape human character but also transform our perception of the importance of maintaining human connection. In the era of Society 5.0, social media—once intended to bring people closer—has often become a space for competition, self-validation, and the reinforcement of negative stigma.

As a result, many of us begin to overlook the importance of recognizing goodness and fostering meaningful relationships, as we become increasingly consumed by overthinking and adopt antisocial tendencies to avoid unnecessary drama in our lives.

In a tausiyah (religious lecture) delivered by Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, during the Halalbihalal event and the 6th anniversary of NBO held at the auditorium of Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) in Tanjung Duren, West Jakarta, he explained that goodness exists in all things, both living and non-living. However, he emphasized that we must first believe in the existence of such goodness in order to truly appreciate it with sincerity.

“We, both inanimate and living beings, are created in goodness that consists of outward (physical) aspects—perceivable through the senses—and inward (spiritual) aspects, which encompass the mental and soulful dimensions of a being or even an object. Why do I include objects? Because goodness serves as a path not only for action but also for appreciation, even toward the things we encounter in our daily lives,” he explained.

Furthermore, he added that practicing kindness can train us to move away from egoism and materialism toward becoming more sincere individuals who devote themselves in prayer (munajat) to Allah SWT. According to him, acts of kindness function as a form of spiritual discipline, helping individuals release excessive desires and ambitions, ultimately shaping a more humane character that is not solely driven by achievement or validation.

“Sometimes, in perceiving goodness, we cannot escape our own ego, which tends to prioritize materialistic desires or the fulfillment of inner needs. Therefore, it is important to balance this through prayer and seeking guidance from Allah SWT. However, it is equally important to remember that sincere prayer must be accompanied by munajat, so that it is not contaminated by desire and ambition,” he stated.

Once we move beyond the stage of appreciation, the next phase is the ability to truly acknowledge the existence and value of everything around us, while also building meaningful connections with it. At this point, understanding is no longer superficial but evolves into a holistic awareness of meaning and contribution within our environment.

By practicing kindness, we not only strengthen human connections but also discipline ourselves to appreciate the small things in life. From the good deeds and relationships we cultivate, enduring meaning will remain—even after we are gone.

“A good heart reflects a person’s true self, as their life is accompanied by the blessings granted by Allah SWT. For those with a pure heart, even when they close their eyes, they are able to perceive light and recall the good memories in their lives,” he said.

“Human existence begins from nothingness, but it does not end in nothingness. The realm of barzakh is merely a temporary rest, where all good deeds, religious values, and relationships we have built will stand as witnesses for us in the hereafter. Indeed, Allah continues to create and nurture us, even when our chapter in this worldly life has come to an end,” he concluded.