"می پرسم آقا شبه نظامی چیست این کل مردم هستند به جز تعداد کمی از مقامات دولتی"

This quote boils down to the idea that the militia doesn't just mean a small, specialized group of soldiers or fighters. Instead, it encompasses everyone in society, with the exception of a few individuals holding public office. This concept stresses that the responsibility for defense and vigilance falls on the shoulders of all citizens, not just a select few.

Traditionally, this was said in the context of early American history. During the time of the American Revolution and the drafting of the Constitution, there was a strong belief in the need for a militia that could rise to defend the new nation. Back then, a standing army was viewed with suspicion—people feared it could be used to oppress them. Thus, the idea of a militia composed of ordinary citizens was appealing because it meant that the power to defend and, if necessary, challenge authority was in the hands of the people.

To see how this plays out in the real world, let’s take a look at the Swiss system. In Switzerland, military service is mandatory for all able-bodied men, and the country maintains a high level of preparedness despite not having a large standing army. The citizens undergo regular training and are ready to defend their homeland at a moment’s notice. This system ensures that the defense of the country is truly a collective effort—an integral part of Swiss national identity.

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our own lives? Think about the idea of collective responsibility. It’s not just about military defense but can be extended to other areas such as community safety, education, or environmental stewardship. If we all take a part in these efforts, rather than leaving it to “the professionals” or “the government,” we foster a stronger, more resilient society.

Imagine your own neighborhood for a moment. Imagine if everyone took the responsibility for its safety—watching out for each other, organizing neighborhood watches, or even just getting to know one another so strangers stand out. It would make the community safer and closer-knit. It’s the same principle: the onus isn’t just on the police or a few dedicated individuals; it’s on all of us.

Let me tell you a story to bring this to life. A friend of mine lives in a small town where, during the winter, snowfall can be heavy. One year, the town's snowplows were overwhelmed after a big storm. Instead of waiting for the town to come and dig them out, the community organized themselves. Neighbors with snowblowers and shovels went house-to-house, clearing driveways and sidewalks together. They didn’t wait for someone else to fix the problem—they became their own “militia” against the snow, so to speak.

This story is a perfect illustration of the quote. The whole community, rather than just a few public officials or workers, came together to solve a problem. It wasn’t about official titles or positions; it was about everyone taking part.

So, take this idea and run with it. In your life, don’t wait for someone else to step up when you see a need. Whether it’s community safety, helping a neighbor, or protecting the environment, remember that you’re part of the “militia”—the whole people. Let’s all do our part.