Life is really simple; not complicated at all, if society would only follow the simple law of etiquette. Etiquette is the established set of unwritten rules, customs, and codes of conduct governing polite behaviour within a society, social group, or professional environment. It focuses on respect, consideration, and proper manners.

Yes, in my opinion it's that simple to coexist with one other. In even simpler terms, live by the Golden Rule — simply to treat others as you would want to be treated. The Golden Rule sets a moral standard for harmonious coexistence.

In a world increasingly divided by politics, race, class, religion, and personal interest, the Golden Rule is a timeless principle that shines through every age and civilisation. It’s a simple teaching that has the power to heal families, strengthen communities, and restore humanity’s sense of moral balance.

Islam not only embraces this principle but elevates it into an act of faith. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)

This profound Hadith moves beyond politeness or social etiquette. It calls believers to genuine empathy. It asks us to desire for others the same mercy, dignity, opportunity, forgiveness, and compassion we seek for ourselves.

Imagine how different our societies would look if this principle guided our speech, our political debates, our family disputes, and even our business dealings.

We would think twice before humiliating another person, exploiting the vulnerable, spreading gossip, or withholding kindness. The Golden Rule forces us to step outside our own ego and see the humanity in others.

The Koran repeatedly calls believers towards justice, mercy, and noble character: “Indeed, Allah commands justice, excellence, and giving to relatives and forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression.” (16:90)

Justice in Islam is not reserved for friends or those who agree with us. It extends even to strangers and opponents. Another verse reminds us: “And speak to people good words.” (2:83)

These are not complicated instructions, yet they are among the hardest to consistently practise.

Human beings often want understanding without offering it, forgiveness without granting it, and respect without showing it. The Golden Rule challenges this hypocrisy by making personal accountability central to moral living.

Prophet Muhammad embodied this teaching in remarkable ways. He showed mercy to children, patience to the elderly, generosity to the poor, and dignity even towards those who insulted him. His life demonstrated that strength is not found in domination, but in character.

In today’s climate of outrage and division, many people have become quick to condemn and slow to understand. Yet Islam teaches that every act of kindness carries weight.

A smile, a gentle word, helping a neighbour, checking on the lonely, or feeding the hungry are all forms of worship when done sincerely for the sake of Allah.

The Golden Rule is ultimately about recognising our shared human condition. Every person carries struggles unseen by others. Every soul longs for peace, mercy, and acceptance.

When we treat others with the compassion we ourselves crave, we reflect something beautiful from the divine qualities Allah loves.

Perhaps the world does not need more arguments as much as it needs more people who live this principle sincerely: to give what we hope to receive, and to become for others the mercy we ourselves pray for daily.

Save the dates: May 14 to 16, as One Love Bermuda Ummah presents a powerful and uplifting weekend with Imam Shadeed Muhammad, to be held across various venues throughout the island.

The theme is “Patience and Perseverance — The Currency During Times of Trial and Turmoil”.

Indeed a timely reminder. A needed gathering. A chance to reconnect hearts — individually and collectively. We look forward to seeing you there with your family, your neighbour, your friends, your tribe. Look out for the posters across the island.

Bermuda as always, I pray you have a blessed and purposeful week. Let us continue to pray for global justice and peace for all.

Indeed, prayer is powerful.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam