A Natural Shield

The human face naturally carries an aura of authority. Just as this aura restrains animals, it restrains humans as well. A tiger is overawed by the human face and does not dare to attack it directly. A tiger attacks only when, through carelessness, a person gives the impression of weakness. The same is true between humans. In normal conditions, one person is overawed by another’s presence. This awe disappears only when some incident breaks the natural balance. A hadith says: “God created Adam in His own image” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 6227). The human face is indeed the most dignified thing in the known universe. It carries a natural greatness. God has made your face and personality an undefeated shield. You can use it whenever needed. But your success in doing so depends entirely on the image you have built in the eyes of others. If you have created the impression that you are shallow and worthless—that you only know how to fight meaningless quarrels, that you make bold claims but retreat at the first threat—then when you appear before others, your presence will carry no weight. At that time you will be like a broken shield, providing no protection. In contrast, if you have built the impression that you are serious and weighty, that your good character has won people’s respect, then the moment you appear, people’s eyes will lower before you. Your presence will have the