Is it permissible to describe Allah as "a thing" based on the Hadith: "Allah existed, and there was nothing with Him"? Does this Hadith mean that Allah created things out of absolute nothingness? And how can one attain the station of Ihsan, "to worship Allah as if you see Him," and what are its virtues?

Ihsan (excellence/doing good) is the essence and perfection of faith. It is based on feeling Allah's constant watchfulness (muraqabah), fearing Him, and being shy before Him, as stated in the Hadith (definition) of Jibreel: "To worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you do not see Him, then indeed He sees you." The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, also warned against those who violate Allah's prohibitions when they are alone. Among the merits of Ihsan is that it is a cause for Allah's love for His servant.