Question: When I was younger, I had a water bottle and was traveling. This little boy came up to me asking for my water, but since I wasn’t thinking at the time, I didn’t give him it. Now, I feel really guilty about it for not providing him with water that he could’ve desperately needed. I have repented many times, but I am scared that by not giving him the water, he could’ve got ill or something like that. I feel super guilty about not helping him. Will I be forgiven? What will happen to me if something bad happened to him once I didn’t give him the water, even if I didn’t mean to purposefully hurt him? I feel so bad just thinking about it, for not giving help. Please note that this was in another country, and I don’t know what to do.
ANSWER :
Bismillah hir-Rahman nir-Rahim !
If this incident occurred in your childhood, there is no need to overthink it or lose hope in Allah’s mercy. However, it is a positive sign that you feel remorse and regret. If it is no longer possible to contact or meet the boy, it is best to pray for his well-being and give charity on his behalf. In the future, whenever someone needs help, assist him to the best of your ability.
