Show me the money!

No this isn't a post about the movie "Jerry Maguire" or Tom Cruise or Cuba Gooding, Jr. It's about economics at the basic level.

I've been to Jewish communities in New York, Amish communities in Pennsylvania, and Muslim communities all over the world. In all 3 cases, like minded people have come together to support one another with stores, schools, health care, and other social services. However, the Muslims seem to be lacking. Why is that?

Both the Jewish and Amish communities keep their money in their respective communities. They espouse the buy local, keep it local belief.Why do we as a community not support one another? Why don't we establish our own coffee shops instead of going to Starbucks? Why don't we have our own hospitals? I've seen Jewish and Catholic hospitals, but no Muslim hospitals. However, I've seen many Muslim doctors working in those hospitals.

I truly believe we have the intellect, manpower, the need, but lack the desire to sacrifice to establish the big picture. Since the big picture is beyond the thoughts of many, let's look are something a little easier for now.

Here are the top 10 reasons to:
Think Local - Buy Local - Be Local (http://sustainableconnections.org/thinklocal/why/)

1. Buy local, support yourself - The local seamstress buys from the local fabric shop
2. Support community groups - The local fabric shop donates to the youth archery club
3. Keep our community unique - The youth archery club competes regional and shows our uniqueness
4. Reduce environmental impact - Local employment saves on gas and auto maintenance
5. Create more good jobs - Specialty shops, not mega malls
6. Get better service - People know your name and care about you
7. Invest in community - People appreciate things they invested in (our park, our team, our children)
8. Put your taxes to good use - minimal infrastructure
9. Buy what you want, not what someone wants you to buy - Local shops cater to locals
10. Encourage local prosperity - Wanting for your brother or sister what you want for yourself

For those who do not live in a Muslim community and have no desire to move to one, at least support the community you live in. Remember,

"The Believers are but a single Brotherhood." [Al-Hujurat 49:10]

"The Believers, men and women, are protectors one of another: they enjoy the ma'roof (all of Islam), and forbid the munkar (all that is evil; kufr): they observe regular prayers, pay Zakat, and obey Allah and His Messenger. On them will Allah pour His mercy: for Allah is Exalted in power, Wise." [9:71]

Narrated Abu Musa:

The Prophet said, "A faithful believer to a faithful beliver is like the bricks of a wall, enforcing each other." While (saying that) the Prophet clasped his hands, by interlocking his fingers.