For the past two years, I’ve been following geopolitics more closely than ever before-particularly the situation in Gaza. What Israel is doing… it hurts. Like many, I’ve chosen a side. But this post isn’t about politics or sides.

Throughout this war-and in many similar events—whenever I witness what I perceive as injustice (because let’s face it, everyone has their own definition), I find myself deeply disappointed with world leaders and the justice system.

How can they allow this to happen-to innocent men, women, children, or anyone, really? Why aren’t they stopping it? How can someone do this and walk free? In the midst of my frustration, I often say to myself-and genuinely believe-that if I had the power, if I were in their position, I would never let such injustice happen. I would stand up for what’s right. I would punish the oppressor.

I’m sure many of you have felt the same way at times, haven’t you?

Are We Really Any Different?

In our daily lives, we wear many hats: as sons or daughters, brothers or sisters, believers in God (or a higher power), and so much more. But are we truly fulfilling our responsibilities? Or even trying our best?

If I’m honest, I can’t say that I am. And I suspect many of you might feel the same-perhaps with a few exceptions. The truth is, most of us neglect our roles, often without even trying. And if we, as ordinary individuals, aren’t living up to the responsibilities in our small circles-toward our families, our values, our faith-how can we expect those in power to deliver justice on a global scale?

In fact, if we were in their position, I think most of us would act the same-if not worse. Power doesn’t change people as much as it reveals who they already are. And if we haven’t done the inner work, the result might be just as disappointing.

Power corrupts those who are already corrupted. — Raashid Anwar

So, What’s the Real Problem?

I believe the root of the issue lies within society itself. Corruption, crime, and deceit have been normalized. We’ve seen it since childhood. We’ve grown used to it.

The leaders we criticize are not separate from us-they’re born from the same society, shaped by the same culture, and raised under the same moral compromises.

So maybe it’s unrealistic to expect them to be different… when we aren’t.

If we poison the pond to hurt others, it will harm us too—because we also have to drink from the same pond. — Raashid Anwar