I’m reevaluating my perspective on life’s trials. Trials are not punishment from God or Allah. Trials are not humiliation. There may be a path on a human journey to become wiser and cultivate a sense of humanity.

A few days ago, a friend told me how his life had fallen apart in recent years. His wife suffered from severe depression and was prone to public violence. He had been humiliated by her several times in front of family, friends, and neighbors. Due to her embarrassing behavior, he decided to reduce social gatherings with neighbors and focus on raising their children.

I felt sorry for him. As a man in an Eastern culture, it would have been easy for him to divorce his wife and rebuild a new life, taking his children with him. However, he rejected the idea. He didn’t want to do that. He was still considering his wife’s situation. Did he truly love her? Not really. He only felt responsible for her. She refused any treatment or medication, but he continued to accept her as she was, which made things difficult for everyone.

I reflected on his case and compared it to the trials in my own life. I’ve had a dozen serious problems or two, and I’ve been plunged into sadness. However, after overcoming those trials, I returned to my routine with renewed vigor. Although my joy was somewhat diminished (I don’t think I’ll ever feel that exuberant joy again), I felt like my life wasn’t that bad.

Of course, my trials were nothing compared to those of my friend. His circumstances were different. However, I learned from him that a sense of responsibility for our own lives and the lives of others (family) can save many lives. He sacrificed himself, but through that sacrifice, he saved the lives of his two children, his sick wife, and his in-laws, who, unfortunately, now live with him.

It takes a great soul to endure such a trial.