The Second Forbidden Tree

all feelings of gratitude, we risk eternal loss. And, no believer can possibly afford to adopt this counterproductive attitude. Living in God The case of Muslims in present times is that, while believing in God, they have allowed their focus upon Him to become diminished. This is the sole reason for Muslims suffering from negative thinking. This is so common in Muslims of the present day, that we can hardly find an exception, whether among men or among women. Their writing and speeches are all expressions of negative thinking. What is the reason for this negative train of thought? In actual fact, it is the result of some grievance. Every Muslim harbours some grievance against someone or the other. Some have usurped their land, others have attacked their country, yet others have made derogatory remarks on Islam, someone has denied justice to them, others try to discriminate against them, etc. Today all the Muslims give voice to such complaints. It is their grievance which has turned almost every Muslim negative. But negative thinking should be seen in the context of making something other than God one’s main concern. Finding God is to find the greatest thing. One who has discovered God becomes so highly elevated in his thinking that all else pales into insignificance. Finding or losing something material is of no consequence. He starts living by the maxim: you can take away from me whatever you want, but you cannot take away God. This attitude turns a believer into a positive thinker to the ultimate extent. He harbours not even one iota of hatred for anyone, nor does he fall a prey to despair or frustration. Do not waste time What is the reason for man coming to the world? Has he come here to establish the rule of his choice on earth? No, He has come here to develop himself according to the will of the Lord. Man has been granted a very limited period of time in this world, during which engaging in anything which is of no avail in the Hereafter is to destroy oneself forever. Only that person will be held successful after death who has developed his personality in accordance with the will of the Lord.