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“From Punishment to Brotherhood: A True Story of Unexpected Friendship”
There are moments in life when we believe we have control over hatred and enmity—but love? Love has its own way of surprising us. Sometimes, your enemy becomes your closest friend, and sometimes, hatred transforms into something much deeper—into understanding, or even affection.
Back when I was in 11th grade, I had a friend who lived in the same area as me. Near our neighborhood, there was a madrasa (Islamic school) where he used to study. During our free time in college, he would often tell me about the madrasa—its strong educational values, the discipline, and especially about a very wise and experienced teacher he admired greatly.
His stories sparked something inside me. I started to feel a desire to study there too. After talking to him, I decided to join the madrasa. The classes were only about an hour to an hour and a half every day.
Within just 15 days, I became one of the favorite students of that teacher. He appreciated my dedication and began trusting me. One day, he had to go out for some work, and before leaving, he told me, "Until I return, you’re in charge. Keep an eye on the students, and if anyone misbehaves or starts chatting or playing around, write down their names and give me the note when I come back."
