CAN we discard the concept of perpetual strife in the game of life? If we do so, we resemble a ship adrift, surrendering its course to the whims of the waves. Such an approach to life is not merely unproductive, but also inherently deleterious. Life is replete with challenges and the contemporary world has grown even more exacting than in bygone eras. The pressures that the youth grapple with in today’s milieu are colossal. Life’s mechanism yields moments of both astonishments, occasionally manifesting as resounding triumphs and predominantly, as ignominious failures. The dynamic of success and failure ensnares all within its ambit. Those who exhibit resilience encounter a prosperous destiny, while those who succumb to frailty, daunted by their inability to confront failure, plunge into the profound abyss of despondency.
Our youth is navigating a period fraught with myriad challenges. They have transformed into bewildered nomads in the arid wilderness of adversity. A glimmer of hope must be kindled for them. Thus, how can our youth surmount the contemporary challenges that have rendered them beleaguered and disempowered, casting doubt upon their ability to make meaningful strides in their lives? In such times, the philosophy of Allama Iqbal offers a panacea for traversing the turbulent waters of the contemporary world. Iqbal’s philosophy places paramount importance on exhibiting steadfastness amidst the obstacles that obstruct the realization of life’s objectives. Life is a journey bereft of elation if one falters in demonstrating tenacity. Tenacity entails the sustained exertion of effort in the face of arduous moments. The crux of Iqbal’s philosophy imparts to the younger generation the notion that surmounting trying moments necessitates a distinct mindset, one that acknowledges the premise that the initial step toward success is founded on perseverance.
Furthermore, Iqbal’s philosophy extols faith as the driving force in one’s lifetime. There is a profound lesson inherent in Iqbal’s philosophy that underscores the role of faith in shaping one’s destiny. Having faith conveys the idea of having an unwavering belief in oneself, as life often places individuals in situations where their faith in their capabilities wanes. This phenomenon is intricately linked to the unfortunate reality that many gifted individuals fail to etch their mark in life due to their inability to assert themselves when their faith falters in the face of adversity. Most dishearteningly, seeking external validation often ensnares individuals in a false illusion that they lack the resilience to navigate trying phases, thereby undermining their innate abilities to surmount such daunting challenges. This is where faith steps in as a pivotal component in one’s life. Iqbal’s philosophy advocates nurturing a robust faith to navigate the dark periods of life. Presently, the youth often lack this essential element, resulting in the erosion of faith in their capabilities, consigning many gifted individuals to the abyss of failure and desolation.
Additionally, Iqbal’s philosophy underscores the significance of courage amidst life’s tribulations. In the tempest of adversity, it is courage that empowers individuals to confront the spectre of defeat and failure with a resolute countenance. Many contemporary youngsters are plagued by the fear of societal rejection should they encounter failure. It requires immense courage to accept the reality that the primary objective of existence is not to curry favor with society, but rather to ardently strive towards becoming the best versions of themselves. It demands fortitude to embark on a path fraught with hardships and the ever-present specter of failure. Those who fail to cultivate and nourish courage within themselves fall woefully short of metamorphosing their lives. Throughout the annals of history, courage has remained a pivotal factor in human survival and it is no less significant in the modern era, as life devoid of courage becomes an ordeal fraught with misery and anguish.
Iqbal’s philosophy further expounds upon the importance of sustained effort in reshaping one’s life. Persistent effort is the linchpin that distinguishes one from another. The youth of today often clamour for immediate success. However, success is a path paved with successive stages of relentless struggle. Those who disregard effort as the foundational pillar of their lives inevitably encounter failure. It is vital to internalize the notion that sustained effort does not guarantee unbroken success. The annals of human history are replete with instances of individuals who devoted their entire lifetimes to attain worldwide acclaim, ardently adhering to the principle of relentless endeavour even in the face of unremitting failure.
Lastly, Iqbal’s philosophy unequivocally asserts, “ḳhudī ko kar buland itnā k har taqdīr se pahle, ḳhudā bande se ḳhud pūchhe batā terī razā kyā hai.” This serves as a reminder to the youth that they must empower themselves sufficiently to triumph in any life’s battle. This concept necessitates endeavours to augment one’s aptitudes and skills, enabling success and fortune to favour them. It remains an undeniable truth that one reaps only what one diligently sows. Iqbal’s philosophy rests upon pillars urging all individuals to exhibit patience, demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, nurture courage and strive tirelessly for success. Today’s youth can liberate themselves from disappointment, dejection, demotivation and the fear of societal ostracism by adhering to the teachings of Allama Iqbal. His philosophy brims with invaluable lessons that can guide individuals toward success and a life imbued with purpose. Our youth must embrace these qualities to chart a transformative trajectory for their lives.
Iqbal’s theory of self embodies the seeds of success for the youth in the modern world. The message embedded in his philosophy is resounding and lucid: “Give full vent to the songs of nature, Rid it of the songs of others.” Undoubtedly, life is no cakewalk, replete with intricate complexities that demand resolution. In the present day, our youth yearns for guidance as they grapple with internal conflicts and confront an external world that often casts a sombre hue over life. The only viable course of action is to delve deep into the teachings of our national poet, Allama Iqbal, whose wisdom imparts solace amid the harsh realities of this world. Indeed, Iqbal’s philosophy serves as a panacea for the contemporary afflictions plaguing our youth.
—The writer is CSS Officer, based in Sargodha.
Email: [email protected]
views expressed are writer’s own.
