“Pessimism is blasphemy” (Al Quran)
Pessimism as a hindrance is constant in the present generation. It seems as if our younger generation is prone to it. Today, if we analyse our society, I’m cent percent sure that everyone has become prey to this menace. This hardship is the root cause of growing disorders such as anxiety, stress and anger.
Pessimism indulges our brain and heart in a vicious cycle of absurd thoughts, which later become the ultimate cause for unrest in our body, mind and spirit. Pessimism ruthlessly exploits us and is responsible for the death of inner mirth; the sole way to gain confidence, which in turn upholds success. But unfortunately, most of us are trapped in the net of negative thinking, disrupting the condition of our body, mind and heart. Pessimism can never give us a positive life.
Pessimism makes life colourless, although one has all comforts. It is a ruthless and cruel punishment that we give ourselves for the sins we have not even committed. One cannot enjoy their life until they can overcome this serious defect. Pessimism lurks all cruelty, coldness of adults, tyranny of social decorum, confusion of sexual awakening, anguish of social alienation, humiliation of inferiority and weakness, shame suffered upon the dismissal, and mockery of psychological affliction.
All these absurd thoughts make a man sick and psychologically ill. Pessimism brings with it thoughts of fear, and fear kills man It destroys social and domestic relations. It makes a person tense, ruining family relationships. It is an evil that destroys breathtaking moments.
On the other hand, optimism is the key to mirth, confidence and success. Optimism helps a man relax and keep his calm, freshening his mind and spirit. By adopting this beautiful gift of nature, we can definitely become innovative and intellectual. In Islam, besides having various duties, we also have a duty of our own towards the body, mind and heart, which we call “Haqqoq un nafs”.
Optimism helps us keep our sight on the bright side of life, and ultimately brightens and makes our body and mind vibrant, helping us in performing our supreme duty rather than obliging for “Haqqoq un nafs”. By seeing the bright side of things, if we’re able to feel calm, vibrant and relaxed, there is no need for another tonic. It is only our selves who can liberate us from heavy chains and hindrances of pessimism.
For a happy and worthy life, optimism is necessary, just like oxygen. Nature has nurtured us with numerous capacities and abilities, but the termite of pessimism becomes a hindrance to utilise these abilities and unfortunately, we lose the battle of life.
About the author: Danish Lone is pursuing his honours degree in Economics and can be reached at danishlone397@gmail.com.