I used to wonder while growing up, why are so many people indifferent towards religion? Indifferent towards studying hard and doing well in school? Indifferent towards many things that I had a passion for… Only in recent years did I fully realize that these differences are necessary for the world to function. Professor Chittick once implied that not everyone was meant to be religious, or spiritual. If everyone was fascinated by religion then how will the world grow in fields and areas where religiosity or spirituality are not a prerequisite, such as technological developments in medicine and computer science? I have encountered some of the most well-mannered and sincere people in these fields, but when the topic of spirituality comes up, they are not conversant or interested. But this is fine. People will follow their callings to their respective field and role in life. And all of these roles need to be valued and respected. The lack of speech in the areas of religion and spirituality does not mean that a person’s manners and behaviors cannot exemplify the state present in the Awliyaa (friends of God).
Regarding the indifference towards studying hard in school: intelligence and knowledge are not limited to history, math, science, and literature. There are interpersonal skills and knowledge, public speaking skills, spatial understanding and physical performance skills, music, art, and more. Without music, without art, without oratory, this world would be completely devoid of beauty. A person may excel in the hard sciences but can they move an audience to tears like how an actor or a poet can? We must learn to appreciate both roles, for indeed all human skills and talents are a reflection of the Infinite Wisdom and Beauty of the Creator.
