When we were young, we used to believe that a thief always wears a mask covering his eyes and that he usually goes out by night to steal. We also had a vision of him holding a bag with what he had stolen. This concept remained fixed in our minds until we grew up to find that such a 'worn out' thief changed to be dressed in very elegant attire, stealing in broad daylight right before our eyes, as if he was defying us to 'utter' a word of warning!

People have changed compared to the past when they used to warn each other in the diwaniya about someone who had just entered because he was a 'skilled' thief who would rob anything. Things are different nowadays because the same diwaniya visitors might whisper to each other that such a person is a 'good fellow'. Honesty is rare nowadays.

In the past, officials used to be welcome additions, honoring the posts they assume. They would work hard to develop work and satisfy everybody. They used to be keen on being up to their responsibilities. On the other hand, some of today's officials rejoice on being appointed, promising themselves to become millionaires and to make the best use of their positions before they leave. They would price every favor and take bribes accordingly.

A word of honor used to prevail and control all transactions in the past. Today, one needs an army of lawyers and piles of contracts that are still rejected by opponents who would simply tell you to 'go to court and sue me'!

A thief has become a role model for many people because they see he has made fortunes in such short periods. "Why not do like them," people say, thinking of making only one big deal that would place them amongst the elite instead of remaining with the poor having lentil soup in the central prison. Thieves now have many assistants as if they are staying in five-star hotels. They are adaptable according the surrounding circumstances and environments.

Big x-large thieves - unless you repent and stop, you have to know that your days are near and that you will held accountable before Almighty Allah because it seems that only He is mightier than you. You will have no escape then, nor will your lies help you. Life is too short and your thefts might be hidden now. However, we know that there is a 'judgment day' and you will be scandalized then and no one will dare defend you! - Translated by Kuwait Times from Al-Anbaa

By Sami Al-Khorafi