One should not prioritize anything over self-respect in life. Even when love and self-respect are presented as alternatives to each other, one must lean towards self-respect. Determination, courage, vigor, and integrity are the ornaments that protect self-respect. Since self-respect is a substitute for existence itself, many people, even when presented with the opportunity to acquire wealth and power, have chosen to forsake it. These individuals, because they did not sell their conscience, have saved society and the state from greater harm. In the end, their respect has remained intact.
It is not right to become too close to anyone or to make oneself too easy to approach. While caring for friendship is essential, it is wrong to entangle oneself in such affection that a betrayal would emotionally shatter one. The path that destroys mental peace and threatens spiritual purity, no matter how much light it may offer, is not suitable for me.
If one falls into temptation, self-respect turns into self-surrender. A defeated person knows how many kinds of injustices can be committed when one loses their morals. At that point, one has to work according to others’ desires. When there is no personal wish or desire left, the crisis of existence becomes intense. I will do what I like, but what I dislike, no matter the cost, will never be imposed on me—this must be a firm, resolute oath. Maintaining this self-respect is crucial in life. Living with one’s head held high has a unique meaning.
Along with being simple and straightforward in life, it is also necessary to be strong. After facing a setback or failure, one must have enough resilience to rebuild oneself or stand up again. This resilience—this determination—should be within us. We must control our emotions. Since human nature involves emotions, they will inevitably arise, but they must be contained in such a way that they retain their value. We must maintain a safe distance from those who cannot appreciate our worth. Along with a heart full of affection, there must also be a strong presence of hatred for injustice and falsehood. If one cannot hate wrong or lies, they cannot maintain their personality. Without the ability to differentiate between good and bad, one will be compelled to follow others’ commands, no matter what they say! If a relationship has been tarnished by others’ faults, it is better to leave it behind without thinking. Clinging to the past and grieving only harms oneself. Oppression turns a person into an oppressor, and its consequences are dangerous.
People will bow down in respect. They will be humble in wisdom, care, and love. Those who sell their heads for alms should not be considered human by conscience. A person cannot dominate another, but they can win hearts through love. Those who wish to walk together, sacrificing their self-interest, can be companions. However, those who try to pull and hold others back, seize their rights, or dishonor them on the streets—such people must never be compromised with. Rather, we must sharpen our protests.
For everything I have received in life, I say “Alhamdulillah.” I do not regret the things I have not received. My well-being and happiness are under the grand design of the Sovereign King. I do not blame others or point fingers for any events or accidents in my life. Living life as a beggar for love has its own merit. It is more important to collect people than wealth. In the remaining days of my life, I desire nothing more than to spend time with books, learn new things, and love life, leaving suddenly without any further wishes. I will strive so that no one can say behind my back, “That person was bad.” In this effort, I must make my life a testament to good deeds. Surely, in the future, I will receive dividends for this exchange.
