“The body should be preserved and tended with care since it is the frame of the heart.

As a camel is to a pilgrim, so the body is like an animal upon which the heart rides.

The pilgrim is obliged to give food and water to his camel, and to the treat it with attention, that he may read the end of his journey in safety, and by its means be successful in the object for which he travels.

But should the pilgrim be busy with his camel day and night, and should expend all his capital in feeding it, he would lose all that he possessed and would be the victim of unceasing regrets, and ruin would ensue.

Just so is it with the man in general.

If he passes all his days in attending to the preservation of the body, and spend the capital of his life in providing food and drink for the body, he will not reach the mansions of felicity but will wander in the wilderness of destruction, without capital, penniless and a naked vagabond.”

~ Imam Al-Ghazali

“The prudent one is he who puts off punishment when anger prevails, and hastens to reward the good, taking the first possible opportunity to do so.” ~ Imam Ali (‘a)

“There are 3 kinds of people who are recognized only in 3 kinds of situations: the courageous man is recognized only in times of war; the forbearing man only in times of anger, and the sincere friend only in times of need.” ~ Imam Ali (‘a)

What is wealth? True wealth. Is it Sprawling Mansions, Stately Gowns, Uber-luxurious food? Or is it having a good nights sleep, being well-nourished, being loved?

This remarkable story puts true wealth in perspective. The kind father hopes to teach the son lesson in fulfillment instead is shown a beautiful lesson in perspective and gratitude.

I can so relate to this story. You see, I am constantly learning from my beautiful children. By the simple yet profound questions they ask. Their observations and their comments.

Sometimes just a simple Why from my son or daughter, leaves me stunned and speechless. Why indeed am I doing what I’m doing? Is it purposeful and meaningful? If so, what is the purpose and meaning? Or is it purely out of blind habit? Or to have acceptance of those around me?

Thanks to my children, I am pushed to a better version of myself constantly. Just like the father is in this story.

Read on…