We live on two railway tracks. One is worldly and the other spiritual. There is a need to strike a balance between the two. “Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion,” (Surah Hadid 57:20)
Life is not about you, it is about God. He created you and owns you: “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me,” (Surah Dhariyat 51:56).
On one occasion during sport's day, it was forgone conclusion that I would win the 100 meters, but it so happened on that occasion I did not. I wondered why. Someone said that it was one of those days when you are not up to it due to the weather, mood or health. Another said that it was due to overconfidence. And another added that it was just not meant to be. Everyone overlooked God’s presence. I am sure that everyone taking part in a marathon, secretly turns to God in his own way, seeking to win.
Let me ask you: “Are you seeking to win or hoping to win?” The answer to this is: “Either way, you are a loser!” You are a loser because God decided whether you should win or lose. You merely fulfilled your role in the race according to your capacity. You did what needs to be done. Everyone does so and we believe that the best wins!
Think again: “The best wins” is just a human conclusion based on speculated facts that appear before us. It does not represent reality as it stands with God. Do not get carried away with what appears to be reality. Every businessman looks at his progressive wealth report and assumes that based on projections, he can invests and expands his business. He then buys more property on loans believing that he will be able to pay them back based on these loans due to projected forecasts – that was until COVID came along and he went bankrupt!
If you are led by desire alone (your 'nafs'), your egoistic desires will lead you to destruction, and if you are led by only spirituality, you will end up a destitute in life. A balance needs to be struck because your righteous deeds in life ensure success in the hereafter. However, ultimately, it is your spiritual state that dominates your outlook to success in this world and in the hereafter.
Secularism offers you nothing but a
godless existence. It consists of intellectualism, self-interest, greed
and decadence. Religion is nothing but a dish on the menu and it is often
the last carriage of a train! Religion has become a tool to be manipulated to
serve political interest. Hadrat Shahidullah Faridi said that Islam today is
like an iron rod put into a furnace and then beaten out into whatever shape is
desired.
Most Muslims when traversing both these railway tracks adopt the philosophy that "oil and water" do not mix. Non-Muslims, give to "Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to the Lord what belongs to the Lord," (Bible). As a result of this attitude, they rob the land and then dish out charity, believing they have made amends for their sins and misdeeds. Do you think that God is stupid? Do you think that you can bribe Him with offerings?
Traversing both these railways tracks simultaneously is no easy task. One needs to turn to God for there are many dangers along the way. Keep focus and do not get distracted nor stop at a station too long because you may never board the train again!
UPDATE: Keep God in your heart and the world in your pocket. Whenever you speak to anyone, to avoid misunderstanding and confusion, express clearly the railway track you are using. At my age (77), I have come a long way and by God's grace managed to reach the summit. At this point, the view is majestic. You lose interest in worldly matters, forwarding messages etc. Its about reality and once you realise that God hears, sees and knows, there is nothing much to ask that He does not know off or to complain over what He has ordained. The only option left for you is to ask for forgiveness, mercy, kindness, love and affection, and servitude towards Him. That will help a great deal as a means of consideration over every predicament you face.
