HAVE A MEANINGFUL AIDIL FITRI 2023

 

We have many “KEM BINA SEMANGAT”, but what we really need is “KEM BINA TABIAT”

An individual, a community or a nation who is constantly dependent on, in need of, or worse, yearns for extrinsic motivation to make things happen, can never be successful.

Yes, having a positive attitude is important and we spend a lot of resources to motivate people. But it is crucial to have a clear distinction between attitude and behavior. Attitude is a mental state, behavior is about actual practice. Attitude focuses on intentions; behavior pays attention to outcomes and performance.

To put it simply, “we do not have to like our boss, colleagues or subordinates”, but we still have to be professional, do our best to work with them and deliver results. Ditto our jobs. We do not need to like or love 100% of our tasks, but we must still deliver.

Failing to define this distinction clearly, we have created a new generation who are undoubtedly positive in their outlook, having grand visions, declaring lofty dreams to change the world, but failing to wake up early in the morning to take simple doable actions to make things happen. A generation who constantly needs a pat on the back for accomplishing the usual.

The belief that we continually need to feel positive, be encouraged and happy to get things done and make things happen, is a sickness. It is a flawed belief system and a myth.

What about the practice of delayed gratification? What about discipline – the inner ability to do what needs to be done? What about the sense of duty and responsibility? To do things because it is the right thing to do, not because you feel good doing it?

In short, we have failed to create a generation who is happy because they are performing. Who knows that a difficult journey makes the outcome worthwhile and gives true joy.

“I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.” - Muhammad Ali

Success does not depend on moods; it rests on action and deeds. Not just on attitude, but more importantly, on behavior.

HAVE A MEANINGFUL AIDIL FITRI

Peace, anas

HAVE A MEANINGFUL VAISAKHI - Why we need INTERFAITH ACTION

Interfaith dialogue is good, but INTERFAITH ACTION is better.

What Malaysia needs is INTERFAITH ACTION. What is Interfaith Action?

It is Malaysians from different faiths coming together to take action for the good of the nation. Each one of us finding the motivation, energy and spirit from our own faith and unleashing pious fervor to do great work, make things right and correct wrongs.

Interfaith Action does not require us to visit each other’s places of worship nor share each other’s rituals or prayers. There is no need to worry about someone trying to proselytize another. If there is any change of heart, it would be because of the attraction to that someone’s good deeds, authentic values and fantastic moral character.

Interfaith Action seeks to harness our combined talents, cross-fertilize our creative energy and diversity, set free our artificial boundaries and germinate our potential. It takes place not in mosques, churches, temples, or any houses of worship. It directs us to where our interfaith togetherness and unity really count - the real world. To go where the poor and have-nots live. At the frontline against injustice and frauds. And, the forefront of new solutions and innovations that can bring us forward. Interfaith action focuses on real issues, not just lofty goals and the exchanging of pleasantries.

We can come together to tackle corruption, misuse of power, hypocrisy, homelessness, hunger, health issues, poor education, care for the elderly, pollution, unsafe neighborhoods and so on. Movements like the #RasuahBusters is a good example of Interfaith Action.

At work, Interfaith Action pulls us together to have good work ethics, integrity, to work hard and work smart. We stop each other from being lazy and tardy, curi tulang and not fulfil our job requirements. We encourage each other to be both efficient and effective and go the extra mile.

It is with Interfaith Action that we can truly share our common values – in deeds. We work together towards a common goal and create positive outcomes – through our faith, no matter which religion we profess.

We need INTERFAITH ACTION.

HAVE A MEANINGFUL VAISAKHI

“ With your hands carve out your own destiny”, Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539)

Peace, anas