There is as much difference between fame and arrogance as there is between self-control (authority over oneself) and political power (governing others). Self-control is given to an individual, and similarly, political power is not granted to everyone. However, the two do not agree. Self-control begins with oneself; it tames the ego, the body, and one’s desires.
On the other hand, political power certainly brings external power, but it lacks these inner virtues. Those in power live with a constant, unknown fear that their power might be stripped away. Because of this fear, lovers of power always do—and force others to do—things that are beneath human dignity. They only want to expand their rule, to the extent that they do not hesitate to gamble away themselves, their families, and humanity itself.
But when people of self-control are spiritual, humble souls (faqirs), they constantly audit and examine themselves. They fear that, God forbid, they might commit a mistake for which their Creator would strip everything away from them.
The oppressed and the devoted come to them to find solutions for their mental exhaustion and unnecessary compromises. This draws them sincerely into selfless conversations of character. Through this, they gain true mastery over their ego and conscience, and they never face regret later.
A person of true self-control possesses spiritual alchemy, a pure heart, and the secrets of divine love. In them, you will find nothing but humility. There is no artificiality, superficial cleverness, or showy glamour. They only do and encourage actions that please their Lord, who in turn grants them true self-control. They consider this divine pleasure to be their only success.
A person of political power is a prisoner to all worldly things. Even while sitting on the throne, they remain deeply terrified, never knowing when their rule will be overturned.
In contrast, those with self-control sometimes make strategic compromises regarding themselves and their situations. On the surface, these decisions might seem surprising, but in the long run, their results prove to be highly beneficial. These pure-hearted, simple people do not know how to deceive others, but they certainly know the art of guiding deceivers away from their dishonesty.
All of this is done for the betterment of society. Because they think beyond their own ego, they maintain complete control over their personal desires. Sometimes, political power also comes to these individuals in a state of innocence. However, they look at it with detachment and try to fit it into a framework of genuine empathy and care. It is true that the world may raise major questions about their methods, but if you look closely at the end results, the benefit goes to the common people, not to any single individual.
Syed Ghulam Hyder Shah Qalandri
Kunri, SIndh, Pakistan
