Q & A: Difficult to be Good Consistently
Question
Assalam alaikum Sull Kaak.
Can you please make a video on how to stay motivated on the right path when everything and everyone is dragging us down. It took me a lot of effort to recover my faith. Seeing the people and mess around I get suicidal. I ask myself why should I be the only person who has to bear the brunt of honesty, sensibility and patience. Everyone else seems to take advantage of whatever I have learnt from you. At times I feel I am a the verge of collapse and I fear becoming someone I don’t want to be. The question is how should we keep ourself intact in this maddening crowd. Why should I choose to work hard and be a good doc when everyone is studying to pass and earn money. Why should I choose to read books when people can just copy paste others opinions, and still receive the large support of masses even if they are wrong. Why should I be good to my parents when now and then they make me feel like hanging myself.
Wa alaikum assalam,
To start with I want you to know that you’re not alone in the chaos that the modern world presents. Staying motivated on the right path when everything and everyone feels against you requires huge strength. This strength in these testing times cannot merely be human but must be connected to the divine. The pressure that all of us feel is most of the times a manifestation of the modern world’s clash with the natural disposition of our being. The world today is soaked in materialism, skepticism, and a pursuit of fleeting pleasures, these influences strip away the cultural and religious foundations that once gave life meaning. This erosion results in a deep sense of isolation and disorientation, especially for those among us, who seek truth and strive to live by it.
The world often appears to reward the dishonest and opportunistic, making you question why you should hold on to truth, integrity, and faith when others seem to thrive without these. The Quran offers clarity here, our struggle is not just about this life; it’s about aligning with an eternal purpose that transcends temporary worldly gains. This world is a test, and your patience and steadfastness are your avenues to a reward far greater than the comfort others might gain by compromising their integrity.
The crisis you and many others who talk to me are experiencing is a crisis of purpose that comes from external influences or “minuscule injections”—gradual shifts away from spiritual meanings towards purely materialistic goals. To counter this, one must remind himself, constantly and consistently, of one’s true purpose. The Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) consistently emphasize that our life’s purpose is to worship Allah, and strive for the Hereafter. We seek not our pleasure but God’s. We seek nearness and love of our Prophet (saw) and the awliya of Allah. Once this becomes the center of your existence, the material successes of others will seem insignificant because they are temporary, while your efforts, no matter how unnoticed they may seem, are building eternal treasure.
The culture we live in has weakened our intellectual defenses. It’s essential to build your understanding through the revival of the religious sciences. Deepen your understanding of Islamic principles and the realities of life through the lens of faith. Our tradition provides not just spiritual solace but also intellectual tools to counter doubts and nihilism. Building a strong base in these sciences helps you see beyond the superficial success others might be achieving. It strengthens your heart against the cynicism that the modern world tries to impose.
Suicidal thoughts and feelings of collapse often arise when our hearts feel disconnected from their source. Salah, dhikr, and sincere dua are your anchors in this storm. Allah’s Prophet Muhammad (saw) faced immense hardship, yet he found strength and solace in worship. God says in Quran, “Ya ayyuha allazeena amanooistaeenoo bissabri wassalati innallaha ma assabireen”. The believers have been asked to get their strength from Sabr and Salah. Remember, you are not alone in your struggles; the Prophets, the righteous, and countless believers before you have endured and overcome. The Prophet Yusuf (AS) was abandoned, falsely accused, and imprisoned, yet his reliance on Allah never wavered. The Prophet (saw), when he was about to be burdened by bigger responsibilities, was asked by Allah to perform night vigils while praying the Tahajjud.
Being a good doctor, a reader, or a devoted son isn’t about gaining worldly acknowledgment; it’s about embodying the excellence (ihsan) that Islam demands. Your work and effort become an act of worship when done sincerely for Allah’s sake. Hazrat Yusuf (as), despite all odds, he maintained his integrity and did not let the corruption around him change his noble character. It’s about rising above the environment, not succumbing to its vices. Allah sees your patience and honesty, and there is a reward waiting for you that the world cannot match. In all of this we may falter at times but God is forgiving and it might at times seem overwhelming, however with difficulty comes ease and God is the ultimate source of strength. Remember when winter comes, spring is not far behind. Remember that the environment around you might not change immediately, but your inner environment can be a fortress. Be selective about what you expose your heart and mind to. Engage with works that uplift your spirit, whether it’s the Quran, the seerah of the Prophet, or other inspiring Islamic literature or just being in the company of the righteous or places of peace like masajid or dargah of awliya. Limit exposure to influences that sow doubt or promote a materialistic worldview. Your inner sanctuary must be guarded, for it is the source of your spiritual strength.
The company of the righteous is of utmost importance. It is crucial that one is supported by individuals who share your values in tough times like these. “akh te akh gayi kaah”. Being part of a group that reflects the radiance that God puts in righteous peoples’ hearts can alleviate the loneliness you feel and provide strength. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The example of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever.” Surround yourself with those who lift you, not drag you down.
The journey we are may not turn out to be an easy one all the time, but it is the most noble one. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) assured us that this world is a prison for the believer and a paradise for the disbeliever. This means your struggle is expected, but so too is your eventual release and reward, inshaAllah. Stay steadfast, and may Allah grant you the strength, peace, and clarity needed to navigate this world while holding firm to your faith.
May Allah protect you, ease your heart, and guide you always.
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