Waiting

Human beings need sincere relationships in life, and when these relationships are built on love and sincerity, there is no greater blessing. Yet greed and selfish motives can turn even the closest bonds into burdens. By God’s grace, Abid is an educated, employed, and responsible man. His parents had passed away, and he lived with his older siblings. Still, he was never a burden to them, as his own business was running successfully, benefiting his brother and sister-in-law as well.

Seeing his value, his sister-in-law attempted to secure a marriage proposal for her own sister, presenting it to Abid. The girl seemed suitable, and the family appeared proper, leaving no apparent reason for refusal. However, Abid discerned the underlying greed and motives behind the proposal. He understood that a relationship founded on selfishness could never succeed. Thus, he refused the proposal.

When family pressure intensified, Abid married a widow working for him. He knew her intentions were pure—she wanted to earn a living and provide for her children, not exploit his wealth. At the time of their marriage, the world seemed opposed to them. Initially, he believed that familial opposition would gradually subside, but the resistance only grew. Frustrated by constant interference, he decided to close his business and move to Karachi. Despite lingering fears, he placed his trust entirely in God.

In Karachi, he realized he had arrived in a city full of diversity—Pashtuns, Punjabis, Makrani Balochs, Saraikis, Sindhis, Kashmiris, and people from East Pakistan; Sunnis and Shias, Barelvis and Deobandis. Every language, every culture, every belief had its place. Karachi felt like the embrace of a caring mother. His business flourished, and he felt the city nurtured him, offering opportunities and support to those willing to work hard. From Mazar-e-Quaid to Mazar Abdullah Shah Ghazi, Abid experienced the city’s generosity firsthand. People respected one another, intervened only when necessary, and greeted each other with warmth.

Despite challenges and scarce resources, Abid’s determination and passion allowed him to overcome obstacles and climb the ladder of success. For a period, life seemed favorable, and he enjoyed happiness and contentment. Yet, circumstances soon turned harsh. Extortion demands began, followed by threats and harassment. Bombings, targeted killings, and random shootings became part of daily life. Fear gripped him every time he left his home.

The city that had once offered refuge and prosperity now became a place of danger. One evening, as Abid was returning home, he learned that an attempt had been made to abduct his son. His wife’s attempt to intervene led to her being shot. The challenges were far from over. Soon after, a fire consumed his factory, reducing years of hard work to ashes. Yet, despite these trials, Abid refused to despair. He knew the essence of Karachi and its people, recognizing that those who thrive in darkness are in the minority.

Abid’s unwavering faith and resilience reminded him that light will eventually prevail. The darkness may dominate for a while, but clarity and justice will return. His belief in God and the good within humanity remained his guiding force. He was confident that, Insha’Allah, the dark times in Karachi would pass, and the city’s brighter, compassionate nature would emerge once more.

Advice:

True happiness and success come from sincerity, integrity, and faith, not greed or selfish motives. Always choose relationships and paths based on honesty and character, rather than wealth or convenience. Life may test you with challenges and betrayals, but patience, hard work, and trust in God will guide you through darkness to light. hard work, and trust in God will guide you through darkness to light.