Actions are but lifeless forms whose soul is the secret of sincerity in them
Interpretation
The essence of actions lies in the sincerity behind them.
This quote emphasizes that actions alone do not hold meaning; rather, it is the sincerity and intent behind those actions that imbue them with significance. Without genuine intent, actions become mere superficial gestures devoid of true value.
In practice
During a motivational speech about the importance of genuine effort.
Whosoever is determined to seek guidance and follow a path of right conduct must search for a shaykh from amongst those who have realization, one who follows a path methodically, who has abandoned his passions, and who has firmly established his feet in the service of his Lord.
Extinction is the beginning of the path: it is traveling to God Most High. Guidance comes afterwards. What I mean by guidance is the guidance of God, as described by the Friend of God, Abraham: "Lo! I am going unto my Lord Who will guide me."
God Most High has said, "Is the reward of virtue aught save virtue?" . . . Know, O man, that the covenant of servanthood is incumbent upon you, and that the covenant of Lordship is incumbent upon His magnanimity, as He Most High has said, ". . . and fulfill your covenant, I shall fulfill My covenant."
. . . persist in that invocation until the unity of the world is subsumed for you in a single sphere, so that with the eye of your heart you will see naught in the two worlds save the One.
The most excellent of those who perform good deeds are those who most often remember God in all situations.
If you do not think well of Him because His qualities are beautiful then think well of Him because of the way He treats you.
Objectively good spaces to work rarely end up being so; in their faultlessness, quiet and well-equipped studios have a habit of rendering the fear of failure overwhelming. Original thoughts are like shy animals. We sometimes have to look the other way - towards a busy street or terminal - before they run out of their burrows.
The truly patient man neither complains of his hard lot nor desires to be pitied by others. He speaks of his sufferings in a natural, true, and sincere way, without murmuring, complaining, or exaggerating them.
since the thing perhaps is to eat flowers and not to be afraid
No great genius has ever existed without some touch of madness.
Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.
True will is quiet humility, resilience, and flexibility; the other kind of will is weakness disguised by bluster and ambition.
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