Rising to the Challenge

Rising to the Challenge

1986 2 February 11 Rising to the Challenge (366) In the jungle, one set of animals perpetually goes in fear of another set. That is why they are always on the alert, this being necessary for their very survival. In this way their natural potential is developed and there is no danger of their faculties atrophying or going into a decline. It is because of this that the great parks meant as animal sanctuaries provide artificially for danger. For example, a cat will be kept in the rabbit park or in the deer park a tiger or a wolf will be allowed to enter, so that the dear retain the alertness they need for survival. In this way they are always kept active and lively, and retain their natural vivacity.

The same is true of man. Man has infinite potential, but it remains hidden under normal circumstances, and is awakened only in the face of challenge. This phenomenon is observable everywhere. Families who have access to every comfort and luxury become dull and lifeless. On the other hand, those families who are beset with difficulties are more geared to making use of their potential.

Present day Muslims have a feeling of insecurity in their environment. But they forget the fact that, in the initial period of Islam, the Muslims of Mecca and Medina had a far greater sense of insecurity in comparison. Had this been an evil, the Prophet of God and his companions were certainly more deserving than anyone of being shielded from this. But God did not protect them. They were continuously kept in insecure circumstances. Throughout their lives they ware unable to live in peace. It is in the hard school of life that man receives the best of training and learns perseverance. Often fighting against oppression results in gain for him. The alertness which emerges from insecure conditions is one of the most valuable qualities of the human personality.

History shows that those who have achieved the heights of success are the ones who have really had to face the pressure of circumstances. This law of nature applies equally to individuals as well as to nations.

No two things are more appropriately linked than gentleness with learning, and forgiveness with prayer.