Those who can’t read don’t steal, those who can, aren’t thieves.

[KitaYama]

Mohamed Aziz, born in 1948 in Rabat, Morocco, is a respected bookseller and self-taught intellectual who has devoted more than 43 years to his humble bookstore, Bouquiniste El Azizi, situated on Avenue Mohammed V.

Despite facing significant challenges early in life—losing his parents at age six and leaving school at 15 due to financial hardship—Aziz’s love for literature remained unwavering.

His journey began in 1963, selling just nine books beneath a tree. By 1967, he had established his current shop in the heart of Rabat.

Aziz spends 6 to 8 hours a day deeply engaged in reading, having completed over 5,000 books in Arabic, French, and English. His dedication to knowledge and literacy has made him a beloved figure in the community.

Remarkably, he leaves his books outside unattended, believing that “those who can’t read don’t steal books, and those who can, aren’t thieves.”

His life’s work is a testament to the transformative power of education and the lasting importance of books in nurturing both individual growth and community spirit.

via : #history #books #facts

Click any image and walk through them for a larger and better view:

 

[The_Doc_Man]

Other than the daunting issue of store layout, in which finding books of a particular topic will be quite tricky, I have to respect his intent to help his community to learn. This is a good and peaceful goal. A big "thumbs up" for this gentleman.

 

[Cotswold]

There is of course the (some may say caustic) opinion/expression that all people are thieves if they think they can get away with it.

 

[Isaac]

Remarkably, he leaves his books outside unattended, believing that “those who can’t read don’t steal books, and those who can, aren’t thieves.”

Methinks he simply can't keep count of them and therefore is blissfully unaware

 

[Isaac]

There is of course the (some may say caustic) opinion/expression that all people are thieves if they think they can get away with it.

I think that applies to a lot of bad actions people would potentially take if they thought they could get away with it.
Then there is another side though too, wherein we have a conscience (the image of God in us) that sort of makes (most of) us want (most of the time) to do the right thing (sort of at least).
Example, I could get away with lying to my wife in 100 different areas of life, but I sorta pride myself on being an honest person, therefore, I don't, even when it would be to my benefit. Usually, at least.

 

[The_Doc_Man]

I learned a long time ago that I don't have to lie as long as I don't always have to tell the complete truth. Therefore, as long as you allow for an incomplete answer, I very rarely lie. Won't say "never" - but will say "hardly ever." (And for the light-opera aficionados among you, I am NOT the captain of the Pinafore.)

 

[KitaYama]

I learned a long time ago that I don't have to lie as long as I don't always have to tell the complete truth. Therefore, as long as you allow for an incomplete answer, I very rarely lie. Won't say "never" - but will say "hardly ever." (And for the light-opera aficionados among you, I am NOT the captain of the Pinafore.)

You may not believe me, but I don't remember when was the last time I lied. Why should I lie?
I'm 63 and I don't understand the logic of lying. When someone needs or feels it's better to lie? If you ask me something, either I answer, which is what I think I believe and is the truth, or I keep my silent and don't answer.
Sometimes what I say, is not the truth. I admit it. But it mostly is because I believe it as being correct. Not that I intentionally try to hide the truth.
I don't think it's something about me. As far as I know, everyone around me is the same. I also don't remember when was the last time I was lied to.

One question that I have been fighting with for a long time.
Is bragging equal to lying?

 

[Pat Hartman]

Is bragging equal to lying?

Only if you know you are not being truthful. Trump is accused of lying all the time simply because people with TDS disagree with his opinions.

 

[Isaac]

You may not believe me, but I don't remember when was the last time I lied. Why should I lie?
I'm 63 and I don't understand the logic of lying. When someone needs or feels it's better to lie? If you ask me something, either I answer, which is what I think I believe and is the truth, or I keep my silent and don't answer.
Sometimes what I say, is not the truth. I admit it. But it mostly is because I believe it as being correct. Not that I intentionally try to hide the truth.
I don't think it's something about me. As far as I know, everyone around me is the same. I also don't remember when was the last time I was lied to.

One question that I have been fighting with for a long time.
Is bragging equal to lying?

I absolutely detest braggarts and bragging and pride in general. Is it as bad as lying? No, it's worse.