In the Name Of Allah the Most Gracious the Most Merciful Recap of the last issue: Volume 1 is all about consistency. Consistently delivering a newsletter every week for 50 weeks. Consistently writing on the topics of tribal families, community, planning, and group economics.
They said, "O Shu'ayb, we do not understand much of what you say, and indeed, we consider you among us as weak. And if not for your family, we would have stoned you to death; and you are not to us one respected.“ (11: 91) “We cannot enter into alliance with neighboring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides.” (Sun Tzu)
Verification before Recommendation Many important events have transpired since last week. These events have inspired some people to take actions in order to change their situation. However, I would like to ask a question. Are these actions part of a long term community strategy or are they knee-jerk reactions to a current event? The action may be the same in both cases but longevity of the cause will be based on the amount of time spent planning for it. This is a struggle for freedom. This is not the struggle of an individual but rather of a community. The community is built by networking and establishing relationships with each other. The Prophet Muhammad, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has informed us that we get to know a person in three ways: by traveling with them, by doing business with them, or by living with them. If you, the reader, are serious about building strong free communities then know that the integrity of your character will be tested. Furthermore, the people you recommend to others will be a testament to your character. If you don’t know much about a person or organization then don’t suggest them to others, it is just that simple. Honesty is the best policy. In addition, before you do business with anyone verify they are people of integrity. Community building is a mission I have devoted the rest of my life to. It is too important to waste time, energy, and resources with people who are dishonest and unreliable. How many communities and movements have suffered over the years because they trusted people who were undeserving of it. Many of these communities have never recovered. A believer is not bitten in the same whole twice. Let that sink in.
