Do not try to do too much with your own hands. Better the Arabs do it tolerably than that you do it perfectly. It is their war, and you are to help them, not to win it for them. Actually also, under the very odd conditions of Arabia, your practical work will not be as good as perhaps you think it is. T. E. LAWRENCE, ADVICE TO BRITISH OFFICERS, IN TWENTY-SEVEN ARTICLES, AUGUST 1917
T.E. Lawrence emphasized the importance of allowing the local population to take charge of their own struggles rather than intervening too heavily. He believed that the Arabs should engage in their own war efforts, even if their methods were less than perfect. This approach recognizes their agency and acknowledges cultural nuances that external forces might overlook. By advocating for limited involvement, Lawrence pointed to the value of empowering locals, which ultimately leads to more sustainable outcomes.
Moreover, Lawrence cautioned that despite any potential skills or intentions, foreign efforts may not yield the expected results in the unique and complex environment of Arabia. His insights remind us that effective assistance requires understanding local dynamics and respecting the capacity of the people directly involved. This perspective highlights the pitfalls of imperialistic endeavors, underscoring the significance of cooperation over domination in achieving meaningful change.
