ASKING FOR THE IMPOSSIBLE

Like a savage, it is not prepared to admit that anything can come between its desire and the realization of its desire. We must understand the difference between what is practicable and what is not. We should learn to demand only what is practicable. What is the point of demanding something, which has been proven impracticable? So far as the spoken words are concerned, we must show patience (74:10), for the damage done by the spoken word is purely psychological. But so far as actions are concerned, we should apply restraint, for actions are largely aimed at physical harm. Whenever slogan-raising is likely to become an issue, we should ask the administration only to ensure that the participants in a procession do not engage in any violent activities. If we could but adopt this policy, we would have found a way of putting an end to communal riots forever. Demand the possible in this world, and you will meet with success. Why expect the impossible? o The best way to win over a person is to be better than him in politeness. —Umar bin Al-Khattab