A scout leader writes a humanitarian epic with a lost pilgrim in the Grand Mosque of Mecca
In a scene embodying the highest ideals of humanity and dedication to serving the pilgrims, scout leader an epic tale of generosity within the precincts of the Grand Mosque in Mecca during the holy month of Ramadan. For Dr. Ismail Watra, it was more than just a routine task; it was a noble act that transcended the bounds of professional duty. He took the initiative to rescue a lost elderly man and shelter him in his own home, thus ending hours of fear and confusion, and crowning his efforts by reuniting the pilgrim with his two daughters in a heartwarming and joyous conclusion.
A long-standing legacy of serving pilgrims and Umrah performers
This stance is not surprising for the people of the Kingdom, as Saudi scouts have a long and distinguished history of serving pilgrims and Umrah performers, spanning decades. The public service camps organized by the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association in Mecca and Medina are considered a global model of volunteer work, where thousands of young people dedicate their energy to guiding the lost, assisting the elderly, and organizing the flow of pilgrims. This accumulated legacy has fostered a deeply ingrained culture within every scout leader and member of the organization, making serving pilgrims and Umrah performers an honor they strive to attain. This was clearly demonstrated in Dr. Watra's actions, as he handled the situation with a profound sense of responsibility.
Details of the search and loss journey
The story began when a scout leader signs of confusion and exhaustion on the face of an elderly pilgrim amidst the crowds at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Driven by his humanitarian and professional instincts, Dr. Watra offered assistance, only to discover that the elderly man had been separated from his family for hours and had no way of contacting them. The pilgrim stated that he lived in the Al-Khalidiyah neighborhood, prompting the leader to accompany him in his own vehicle on a grueling search through the streets of Mecca.
The shuttle tours continued until three in the morning to no avail, before the truth was revealed in a sudden turn; the pilgrim remembered that his actual place of residence was located in “Khalidiyah” of Medina and not in the holy capital, which complicated the situation and revealed the extent of the psychological suffering that the lost person was experiencing.
A scout leader embodies Saudi hospitality
Faced with this predicament, and driven by his genuine Arab sense of chivalry, Dr. Watra refused to leave the pilgrim alone in the streets or simply hand him over to official shelters. Instead, he decided to host him in his own home. He provided him with complete care and tranquility, ensuring he had food and a safe environment to rest from the distress and fear of searching. The following morning, diligent coordination with the "Lost Pilgrims of the Holy Mosque" center resulted in the discovery of the missing person report, allowing for contact with the pilgrim's family.
Human dimensions and a universal message
Such individual acts by any scout leader or volunteer carry implications that extend far beyond the event itself; they reflect the true image of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a beacon of humanity and a guardian of the pilgrims. This positive impact resonates regionally and internationally, as pilgrims share these stories with their home countries, becoming ambassadors of the tolerant values of Islam and the renowned Saudi hospitality. This story also highlights the importance of integrating official efforts with individual initiatives to enhance the pilgrims' experience and ensure their safety and peace of mind, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of enriching the pilgrims' experience.
Touching moments and family reunion
These efforts culminated in reuniting the elderly pilgrim with his two daughters, a doctor and an engineer, in a moving scene filled with tears of joy and heartfelt prayers. The scout leader didn't stop there; he also assigned a scout to accompany the pilgrim and his family to complete the Tawaf and Sa'i rituals, ensuring their comfort and safety, thus reaffirming that the scouting movement's message is one of life and continuous giving.
