Page 122 - Non-violence and peace-building

Discover Opportunities in Challenging Situations

drawing only negative lessons from the happenings
around them. And so, they have developed an extreme
persecution complex. If, however, they were to reflect
deeply and see things in a proper perspective, they could
make the difficult conditions they are faced with into a
positive resource. Using the capabilities that God has
given to all human beings, they can turn their ‘no’ into
a ‘yes’, the unfavourable conditions that they presently
face into favourable conditions.
This is entirely possible, but only on the condition
that Muslims think in a lofty manner. And for this to
happen, they must learn to view a basket of mud placed
on their heads as a crown of respectability. Instead of
ranting and raving against others, they must focus on
discovering their hidden potentials and possibilities.
They must shun the habit they have developed of
blaming others for the unfavourable conditions they
face. Instead, they must accept their own responsibility
for these conditions. The day this happens will
inaugurate a new and glorious chapter in their history.

121