Don't Think Twice

I don’t know where to begin.

My thoughts can’t seem to be captured into useful bits of information—they’re tangled between despair, anger, and frustration.

I can’t say I’m alone. I call it “Western despair” —being privileged and born into comfort. Basic necessities never cross our minds as things we might be denied. Instead, we dwell on the extras: renovations, the latest fashion, losing weight because we can’t control our eating, and even throwing away leftovers without a second thought.

But what is my role now, more than ever?

This situation is a wake-up call—an alarm that cannot be ignored. A sign we cannot claim we never received.

Now, more than ever, we need to make conscious decisions to fulfil the role we make duʿā for: being a servant to our Lord and a helper to the Leader of our time.

So, what is my role in the West?

Let me share, based on my readings and experiences:

1. Gain knowledge about our leaders today and why we follow them.

Read books and articles about the decisions they make and how those decisions shape society and the world.

2. Make informed decisions and engage in informed conversations.

Base them on research and reliable resources. Study Islamic texts—don’t rely on short social media clips. Instead, find a full lecture series and take notes. Then, find another series on the same topic and compare.

3. Don’t fall for bullying traps.

When a leader’s decision or a reliable source challenges someone’s agenda, they may try to make you feel wrong or embarrassed for sharing it. Be confident. Stand by your words.

4. Engage in real community service.

It plays a vital role in building society. It’s a space to share knowledge, inspire others, and drive truth forward. Think about the skills you already have and how you can use them to contribute.

These are four simple yet significant steps to contributing meaningfully in the West. Allah (s.w.t) has granted us privilege—use it. Those in war-torn countries didn’t get a warning; instead, a bomb landed in their living room.

Don’t think twice.