Life Supreme — Page 65
68. LIFE SUPREME 9. SUCCESS THROUGH FAILURE "All my successes have been built on my failures". (Disraeli). The desire to progress in one way or another is embeded to a lesser or greater extent in human nature. It is a distinctive characteristic in man which differentiates him from all lower forms of creation. Today it may be true to say that the acquisition of wealth is the main avenue of progress along which man seeks to advance. . The urge to progress is a healthy one, providing it does not clash with the teachings of Islam. The Muslim who devotes his whole attention to increasing his wealth and neglects his Islamic duties is progressing in the wrong direction. . The primary concern of a Muslim should be his spiritual progress. . While advancement in worldly affairs is encouraged and commended by Islam, nevertheless, greater stress is laid on the development of the soul and progress along the path of righteousness; for God says in the Holy Quran that the most honoured in His sight are those who are the most righteous. . It is unfortunate that most men do not look beyond the grave. . They give attention only to their material progress while the man of. God does not neglect his spiritual progress. He knows that his love for God should excel his love for the things of this world. He yearns to develop within himself the attributes of God; and while he does not ignore the responsibilities of life he is ever watchful in avoiding all temptations liable to hinder his spiritual advancement. He constantly seeks the Grace and Protection of God and fully realises that his real self is not his physical body but rather his spiritual body which knows no death. God says in the Holy Quran: "And the life of this world is only a play and a sport, but surely the abode of the Hereafter is better for those who are pious. Will you not then have some sense?" (6:33) "O My people, this life of the world is but a temporary provision; and the Hereafter is certainly the home for permanent stay". (40:40). The desire to make constant spiritual progress should surge like a