Cherished Memories of Africa — Page 130
112 but he persevered with hid decision. His father tried all possible tactics but in vain. He then disinherited him. Mr Dibba was engaged but not married by then. The father brought about the annullment of the engagement. However, all this oppression and undue hardship, instead of dispiriting him, increased his faith. After this improper treatment by the family and disinheritance, he picked up an axe and went to the nearby forest. A lot of area in the suburbs of Farafeni was a forest then. He started clearing the forest from one end. According to the then laws of the land, any farmer could clear a part of the forest for his needs and farm therein. That piece of the land became his personal property and he could use it as long as he wanted to but could sell it. He was young, well-built, strong and determined. After a short period, with his continuous hard work, he cleared a sizeable piece of land for his farming. That surprised all the villagers. Islamic Brotherhood : One day, he declared in the mosque that if any Ahmadi brother needed a piece of land he could take a part of the land prepared by him. Divine Bounties : He started farming on his own and never held a begging bowl to anyone. Witnessing all that the family realised their fault and reconciled with him but did not join the jama’at. Because of his family’s political influence and his personal nobilty and good character he acquired respect in the whole town. He always remained an important member of the town’s central social welfare committee. Because of his nobility and honesty, everybody respected him.