It is amazing how people of the same community respond to crises and urgent matters. Some people run into their homes and lock the doors behind them, while others go out in the open checking what is going on and see how they can help. We as human beings must be aware that to live, we must cooperate, because each one of us relies on the person next to him!
Can someone build a structure without a plan? Is it not necessary to see an engineer to calculate everything big and small with regards to erecting a building and making it habitable? Do you not need a farmer to cultivate your vegetables and fruits, and raise your animals that you rely on for sustenance? Do you not need someone to stitch your shirts and pants so you can cover your body and look your best?
Don’t you need a baker to prepare your bread that you place at the dinner table, and other needs, every day? Don’t you need a doctor to see what is bothering you health-wise? Don’t you need a mechanic to repair your car when it breaks down? The list can go on and on, yet I will remind you that the majority of those who we need every day became idle all of a sudden when COVID-19 struck.
The government’s measures were urgently needed and necessary to fend off the virus and most of us remained home most of the time, including those who were making their living on a daily basis, and their source of daily income dried up and made them worried and anxious.
It was necessary to find something to help. There were those who gave food - both individuals and charity organizations - along with government agencies. We all should be together, and if necessary share with each other, and that is what altruism is.
There is nothing wrong about making sure that my neighbor will not sleep on an empty stomach whenever I can. Mind you there are those who do not express their needs out of shyness and dignity, though sometimes it can be noticed.
Allow me to tell you what happened recently with a person in an Arab country. The man went to six or seven ATMs, and found long lines under the heat of the sun, so he reluctantly decided to wait at one machine. There he saw a man in his mid-50s, who seemed very tired. After finishing their business at the bank, our friend took this man to hospital then gave him a ride home.
The man said the landlord gave him a deadline of today that if he did not pay the rent, he will kick him out. Our friend, who is well-to-do, called the landlord and paid him a full year’s rent, making the man very happy and relaxed, before thanking the man for his generosity and kindness.
It is encouraged that members of societies be cooperative and care for each other, as much as they depend on each other.
Finally: Allah Almighty said in the Holy Quran: “And [also for] those who were settled in al-Madinah and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul – it is those who will be the successful”. [59:9]