Shaitan often starts small. It is amazing what an inveterate optimist Shaitan is. 

He watches and observes people and their conditions. He constantly monitors the situation of each one of us. And he tests the waters everywhere he can.

Allah has given Shaitan considerable powers to be able to do that -- until the Day of Resurrection.

Rabbi Anzirnee Ilaa Yawumi Yub'athoon.

Paraphrase:

"Can I have until Resurrection Day 
to be able to trick and fool and mislead these wretched humans?"

That is what Shaitan said to Allah. 

And here is what Allah said to Shaitan in response to that strange and arrogant request:

Inaaka Minal Munzareen.

"Absolutely! 
Go, do what you want! 
You are free Until Resurrection Day."

And then Shaitan makes his move. 

He makes an entry wherever and whenever he finds an opening -- in our hearts, in our minds, in our souls, in our bodies, in our activities and interests, and in our lives. 

And in the circle of our friends and acquaintances and contacts. 

And in our businesses, professions and entertainment. And in all our other pursuits.

And then he builds on whatever success we are able to deliver his way. He grabs and consolidates whatever territory or aspect of our life we vacate and concede.

That is why it is important for us to monitor Shaitan, and keep abreast of his tricks and activities. And then make each other aware of his machinations. And the Satanic Goings-on around us.

And help each other to cope with them.

If we don't do this, we will be fighting a losing battle against Shaitan. Ours will at best be a rear-end action. And our defenses against Shaitan will crumble rapidly.

I have been calling the attention of Muslims, in America and elsewhere, to this important task at hand, going back all the way to the very early 1970s. But without much success.

Is anyone surprised?

END