Social psychologists advance a concept termed as ‘bystander effect.’ It is an attempt to explain an observed phenomenon in which the number of people who act to intervene in an emergency tend to be less, the more bystanders exist at a 'scene' of an occurrence.
Bystanders are therefore passive spectators who tend to be contented with watching others taking practical steps to contain an emergency.
In our communities we have many individuals who choose not to be passive bystanders. They are the first at any emergency and take it upon themselves to make the difference out of any potentially disastrous situation. Through their timely intervention, they mitigate the consequences of such situations getting out of hand.
Voluntarism is part of our faith. In fact, when one considers the many injunctions of a Muslim’s obligations towards another, one realises that it is the duty every believer to be a volunteer in more ways than one.
Just as it the case with the life of every believer, volunteers are tested by situations they find themselves in. It is therefore important for one to adopt a sacrificial spirit that is shaped by a singular intention of earning the Pleasure of the Almighty Alone.
The ultimate volunteers were none other than the Prophets themselves. Nabi Nuh Alayhis Salaam appealed to his people: "O my people! I ask of you no wealth for it, my reward is from none but Allah (Hud, 11:29).
Voluntarism cannot be some sort of extracurricular engagements at our leisure only. Rather, it has to be part of our daily lives, as a way of nurturing our hearts, so as to attain spiritual growth through service to humanity.
Perhaps some of the most notable of volunteers are those who help us in burial rites, manage traffic or serve meals at gatherings. However, there are many roles requiring services of volunteers.
For example, professionals can spare their time to mentor youth. Students can give their time in helping charities. Others can contribute in mobilising resources for the destitute, orphanages and so on.
Making our environment safe, clean and secure should also count as our own civic duty for which we should volunteer.
Humanity’s social dimension is affirmed by an individual’s need to belong. Nothing attaches an individual to his or her society more than a benevolent gesture of kindness especially in times of great need. Hence, voluntarism that reaches out, brings about a social cohesion that builds communities.
May the Almighty inspire us with a spirit of sacrifice so that we stand up and make a difference in our communities. May He bless those who are regular and frequent at selflessly serving others. Aameen.
Source:http://www.jamiat.co.za/newsletter/online_newsletter_0519.htm
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