DEFEAT IN ONE ARENA

case of Roger II of Sicily—his respect for Muslim scholars and their continued intellectual domination even after military defeat—shows that the solution to the problems of the Muslims in the modern age lies in their cultivating technological capability, and establishing dominance in the field of modern scientific knowledge. This can be achieved—not by protests and militant “fundamentalism”, but by earnest academic endeavour alone; it can be acquired by seeking to give to the world, rather than just taking from it. o Be a Super Achiever Be ambitious, but not an adventurist. Be confident, but never lose your modesty. Be clear about your target, but never try to achieve it at the cost of another person's success or peace of mind. You have to be a good planner, but keep away from any kind of corruption. It is good to be a selfmade person but not by usurping other's rights. Always remember that it is not your intention or your desire that determines the course taken by the external world. It is a wise adjustment between your desires and external realities that leads to success. It is a fact that no one can overrule your ambitions but it is also a fact that you cannot overrule the laws of nature. So always be a realist.