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and Abu Talib was poor, but like his father, he loved his nephew dearly, and
there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for him. Many a night the young Muhammad
would be found snuggled up to his uncle in bed, sleeping peacefully until the light
of the morning.

During the day the young Muhammad would go with him wherever he might go
and when he was old enough Abu Talib entrusted him with the responsibility of
shepherding his flock of sheep which was a vital source of food and income for
his family.

Unfortunately, some people tried to imply that Abu Talib made his nephew look
after his sheep in order to demean him -- indeed, this is not the case. It was a
position of great trust and one must remember that most of the prophets, peace
be upon them, were shepherds at one time or another during their life.

Drought had stricken Mecca and its neighboring settlements in the valley yet
again. It was a hard time for everyone both old and young alike. Abu Talib was
highly respected in his tribe and in times of need, such as this, they would often
turn to him for help and advice.