I have recently been in touch with a phenomenal activist. Her words inspired me and made me wonder when are we all going to do our part to change the world into a better place, through political activism, voluntary work and lobbying. She has been actively writing and posting online despite her health issues. She is in the last days of her life; but isn’t giving up fighting for justice, freedom and humanity.
Here is what she said to me:
‘I’m disabled, so ‘copy and paste’ is what many disabled people do. I have osteoarthritis and my fingers hit the wrong keys. I have over 8 disabilities and am a dialysis patient.
My work since 1962 has been to do with human rights. I am also a disabilities advocate and work for the elderly and disabled of my city. Over the years I have advocated for people of all ethnicities, ages, cultures, colours and genders.
I went as far as I could. I had hoped to go further, but not having a business background or degree I could not go further. I don’t think people in the everyday world understand how difficult it is for me to do, what they consider simple things to accomplish.
In the early days of my illness, I could not straighten my back and a close friend told me: “I can’t walk with you if you can’t put your head up, square your shoulders. You are embarrassing me.” That’s the first time I found out how people thought and felt inside their minds. That’s when I decided to be strong and start to do things that might make a difference for people going through similar experiences. I have gone through the most extremes of experiences of life from almost 2 years of age. I lost my kidneys due physicians not watching my health and giving me wrong medications. I had a heart attack because of these medications and have ended up on dialysis for life.’
Maybe it is time for us all to reflect on our lives and see if we truly are dedicated to justice, humanity and peace.
Maybe it is time for us to look at those who are not wasting a moment of their lives, by contributing to humanity and progress.
Maybe we should start questioning our own commitment to Islam and to these important Islamic values.
When are we going to be able to muster the strength that this activist has demonstrated?
The Arab Spring has given us plenty of examples of those who have sacrificed their lives fighting tyranny and dictatorship.
Are you going to take a stance and do your part to change the world? Are you going to work for Islam, justice, peace and progress?
(www.mpacuk.org / 13.09.2011)