Religion, Culture and Necessity

[BACK2MYROOTS]

IT'S COMMON SENSE

Here is a true story.

A few years ago, I had a friend from a very conservative country in the Middle East. He was studying for a PhD and needed some help from me now and again, having lived in the uk for years. We became good pals. So, uncharacteristically, we talked about everything and he opened up to me, as we both trusted each other.

Like most of 'them over there', keema y'goolu, the men are very much in control of all family affairs (at least in appearance, cuz their wives are not as dumb as most people think!). He used to do everything for his family, shopping, driving the children to school, taking them to the doctor/ dentist etc. He drove a large family car, almost like a van, but nicer.

When near tragedy struck ( massive heart attack with multiple by-passes) , 'the wife' sat him down for a serious talk. '' I know back home women aren't allowed to drive for cultural/religious reasons, but we are here. You are now to some extent incapacitated. Even after a full recovery, you can't risk overdoing things. Let me be a true partner and help you and our family'', she said.

Seeing that he was still unconvinced she added, '' Just think, what would happen if you were to have a sudden heart attack in the middle of a highway with your family in the car? I would want to be able to grab the wheel, save our family from disaster, and drive you safely to hospital. Wouldn't you?'', she said. It did the trick and he let go.

Very swiftly, this brave lady learnt to drive (keel-fahla!) and from that day onwards drove the children to school and both started to share chores, not just driving. His friends understood the necessity and never criticised him for his decision.

Why do people wait until a tragedy happens to change? Human nature.

Does anyone else have a similar story to share with us?

[Shotokan_Karate]

Salaam B2MR,

Just as an observation, I fail to see where proper religious practice is really involved in that story. Hint: I noticed you typed when quoting the wife:

cultural/religious reasons

[BACK2MYROOTS]

[ I fail to see where proper religious practice is really involved in that story.]

Some people 'over there' claim that it is haram for women to drive. I am not an expert on this but I don't see why this would be the case.

Sorry for the omission.

[Shotokan_Karate]

I am not an expert on this but I don't see why this would be the case.

Neither do I.


No probs akhi.

I know what people claim, that's my point.

Unfortunately, common sense is uncommon nowadays.

Some research is due I guess