The Illusion of Tomorrow and the Reality of Death
Humanity’s greatest delusion is to think that the life bestowed upon them will not end, constantly postponing repentance and worship to “tomorrow.” The sweetest lullaby of Satan is the thought of “I’ll do it tomorrow,” which has led countless people to spiritual ruin. Geylani (may Allah be pleased with him) shakes believers awake from this ignorance in the following way: “My dear child, do not promise your soul that you will last until morning, and do not tell it that you will reach evening.” The time of death is unknown—when, where, and how it will come. It is not sensible for a servant who has no guarantee of living to tomorrow to postpone obedience to Allah.
Leaving the Past Behind and Living in the Present
Those devoted to Sufism are called “Ibnü’l Vakt” (the child of Time/the Present). A true believer, instead of being overwhelmed by the regrets of the past or worrying about the anxieties of the future, focuses on living the moment in accordance with Allah’s pleasure. “Yesterday has passed, and whatever was in it—good or bad—is gone there… You do not know if you will reach tomorrow. Therefore, you are a person of today. Strive to close the day well.” The wise person acts according to the principle: “Know that this day may be your last.” He performs each prayer as if it were his farewell prayer and takes each step with caution as if he were walking on the Bridge of Sirat.
The Loss of Wasting a Lifetime
Those who spend their youth, health, and time in frivolous games, entertainments, and endless worldly ambitions are deeply deceived. “You are wasting your days and months. Your lives are dwindling… Nothing remains for anyone in the world; so what will remain for you?” Looking back, a whole lifetime seems like just a dream. The cry of “I wish I had more time” when the angel of death knocks on the door will be of no benefit. Therefore, every moment that a servant breathes should be considered a bounty, they must quickly turn to Allah while the door of repentance is still open and accumulate solid capital for their eternal home.