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For those of us who have been spared this harrowing situation by God, it is difficult to comprehend what it is to physically experience these conditions and to do so in many instances for generations – almost as if these people know of nothing else.
Authoritarianism in all its manifestations is appalling and horrendous. And it is directly opposed to all that Islam teaches.
But it seems to be the common fate of Muslims around the world. And the only thing that seems to vary is the degree to which it prevails throughout the Muslim world.
But no matter how much it may vary in degree, authoritarianism is still the same. And it is despicable and reprehensible.
It runs counter to the very nature as it were of what we are made of as human beings. The human mind and spirit find it difficult to cope with negative comments and criticism far less being told at every step what to do, what to think, and what you can and cannot do.
And being forced to accept whatever is given to you in-spite of the inequity and injustice and oppression that surround you from every direction.
To live a life where you have to stay quiet and conform, or be afraid for your life and that of your relatives and associates, is no life at all, regardless of the form and nature of the threats that are directed at you.
So Allah bless those in the so-called Middle East who are fighting with their lives in a real and direct way for their basic rights and freedoms. Things which we in the West take for granted.
These are rights and freedoms which we in the Western part of the world have become accustomed to and expect.
Added: Feb 27, 2011 | Read Full »
