THE SPEED OF CHANGE

A Princeton study suggests a direct correlation between economic growth and individualism[1]. Qatar was once collectivistic – exhibiting camaraderie, greater religiosity, and national pride. As Qatar grows wealthier, it is losing its community orientation. A retired pearl diver in a Doha market said,

“Those were better days. We knew each other well, neighbors were good and there were more family unions as children, parents and grandparents stayed in the same house. Everyone trusted each other. Today, if you send food to a neighbor or relative, they will ask ‘why they are sending? We are cooking here’[2].”

Read Ahmed & Maryam’s profile. Now read Khalid’s and Noora’s, and consider the differences between their lives. Read Psalm 145:4 and Proverbs 4:10-27. We pray for strong family units in Qatar. We pray that younger generations would learn from previous generations. Grant them godly role models and wisdom in their pursuits.

Tags: change, community, family, generation, history, individualism, pearl