Do not treat me as a brother in Allah... please!

Do not treat me as a brother in Allah... please!

We often observe an unfortunate phenomenon in our dealings; while some show the utmost discipline, professionalism, and strict commitment to deadlines when dealing with a foreigner or a non-religious official, a radical shift occurs as soon as the other party is a "brother in Allah". In this case, the person unconsciously slips into what can be called the "ease pattern" or "relaxed mode": Their performance declines, they are late for appointments, leave messages unanswered for days, promise to complete a task and then disappear... Why does this contradiction happen? I fear it often stems from a hidden feeling of "inferiority" toward the stranger, especially the foreigner, which pushes the person to prove their worth to them. On the other hand, the concept of "brotherhood" is misused, as the Muslim brother is expected to accept these shortcomings and tolerate indifference under the guise of affection and forgiveness! Treating your Muslim brother with such laxity does not reflect the strength of the relationship but rather sends a message of disinterest and undermines the value of our shared Islamic identity. True brotherhood requires excellence and fulfilling commitments, not exploiting the bond to justify chaos and indifference! Therefore, if brotherhood for you means wasting my time, delaying my rights, and then expecting me to forgive every shortcoming in the name of affection, do not treat me as a brother in Allah, please! Treat me as you would a stranger: with respect, clarity, and commitment! Let us correct this flaw, for our respect for our brothers is the true reflection of our respect for our identity.