The American novelist Ernest Hemingway was noted for his great sayings: “A man can be destroyed but not defeated” and “A man is not defeated by his opponent but by himself”. Nothing illustrates this better than the heroic stand of the Lebanese people and the defeatist attitude of some Arab regimes.
The determination of a small nation to stand its ground, while under savage attack with the most advance weaponry, is an outward display of a steadfast spirit. Such determination puts to shame those who were shaken to death with fear when no one was even considering attacking them!
Lebanon is one of the most beautiful countries of the Arab world,: it has wonderful scenery, a pleasant environment and beautiful, educated, well mannered people. It is a tragedy to see the dominant countries of the international community allowing the destruction of this country and its people.
However, Lebanon has witnessed several attempts at destruction in the last few decades but has always managed to rise from the ashes, faithful to the image of the phoenix. It symbolises a hard working nation, its love of life and its determination to carry on despite unimaginable setbacks. It was commendable to see our printers in Beirut, Raidy Printing House, working on a new design for our magazine despite the crisis.
Islamic Tourism took the initiative in raising donations for the reconstruction of Lebanon in the first week of the atrocities. We are continuing to keep Lebanon in focus by publishing news and reports in our magazine and on the website. If you wish to make a donation, please visit (www.islamictourism.com).
The present issue is marking the end of five years of publishing Islamic Tourism. I had many things to say but the events of July/August have diverted our attention. However, we have redesigned the layout of the magazine.
Secondly, I really want to thank all the people who stood by the magazine, particularly those who worked on the French, Spanish and German editions and the kind writers who supplied me with articles and photos free of charge and who have given me their full support. I would also like to thank the publisher, Mr Shakiry, for putting his trust in me and the support of two remarkable ladies, Samira Bilaidi, the secretary in our Casablanca office, and Eman Abbas, the secretary in our main office in London. I also extend my thanks and gratitude to our offices in Baghdad, Dubai, Amman, Cairo, Mainz and Casablanca. I sincerely thank you all from the bottom of my heart and wish the whole team continued success and a bright future.
Dr. Abdul-Rahim Hassan
Editor-in-Chief