Page 80 - The Nightmare of Disbelief

to respect others, people need certain criteria, which most of
the time center on money, status and power. In the absence of
these conditions, they find no reason to respect their fellow
men. Alternatively, they lose their respect for one who is no
longer in possession of power or status.

Islamic Morals Teach Friendship in its
True Sense

In societies far removed from the values of religion, you
must certainly have heard people saying, "I have a lot of bud-
dies, but I do not have a single real friend," or "I do not trust
any of my friends." Despite having seemingly very close
friends, these people feel on a deeper level that they are friend-
less. Moreover, it is also unlikely that they will be able to find a
reliable friend. Knowing this fact, these people put no effort in-

to forming better friendships. That is simply because a true
friendship requires sacrifice and effort. In times of trouble, the
individual should be ready to make personal sacrifices for his
friends. Without any hesitation, he should readily spend his
78 time, money or whatever he deems valuable on his friends. Yet,
in societies where principles of religion do not prevail, people
find it meaningless to make sacrifices.
For instance, if someone suddenly falls sick, his friend will
most probably find it troublesome to take him to a hospital, to
pay for his treatment or to stay in the hospital with him and
look after him. It is likely that he will make up excuses to go to

work, or school, or be with his family rather than staying with
his friend who needs help. What is interesting is that everyone
considers this to be a perfectly normal attitude.
This is the main reason why people who pay no attention

THE NIGHTMARE OF DISBELIEF