"يمكنك إدارة ظهرك لشخص، ولكن لا تدير ظهرك لمخدر، خاصةً عندما يلوح بسكين صيد حاد في عينك."

This quote paints a vivid picture of the dangers of addiction. At its core, it’s saying that while you might be able to walk away from another person, you can’t just ignore the threat posed by drugs, especially when they have the potential to cause real harm.

Historically, this was likely said in contexts where the consequences of drug abuse were painfully clear. Picture the late 20th century, amidst the crack epidemic in the US. Communities were ravaged, and the destructive power of addiction was in full display. It’s like someone was warning you that drugs are not just a casual threat—they're actively dangerous.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Think about the story of someone who got hooked on opioids after a surgery. They started with a legal prescription for pain relief. Over time, they became dependent. They might have thought they could control it—just a few pills here and there. But soon, the drug starts demanding more and more. Bills pile up, relationships crumble, the job’s at risk. It’s as if the opioid is holding a knife to their life, and it won’t back down until it has taken everything.

Now, how do you apply this wisdom? First and foremost, recognize that addiction is a formidable opponent. If you or someone you know is dealing with it, don’t dismiss it as something that can be easily managed or ignored. Seek professional help early. Whether it’s therapy, support groups, or medical intervention, get a plan in place. And stay vigilant—relapses can happen, and it’s crucial to have a support system.

Imagine your friend Jake. He’s always been the life of the party, but somewhere along the way, he started using harder substances. At first, it was just a weekend thing. But you start noticing the changes—he’s late to work, seems more secretive, and his mood swings are wild. You want to help but aren’t sure how. Remember the quote: you can’t just turn your back on this. You need to approach Jake with compassion but firmness. Let him know you’re there for him, but also encourage him to seek the help he needs. Maybe you even go with him to his first support group meeting—showing that he isn’t alone in this fight.

In essence, the quote is a raw, unflinching look at the peril of addiction. It’s a call to action to take it seriously. So next time you hear about someone struggling, think of that knife—they need all the help they can get to disarm it. And if it's you, don’t be afraid to reach out. The first step away from addiction’s blade is the hardest, but it's also the most crucial.