The Repair Shop of Hearts
A Sufi Dialogue صوفیانہ مکالمہ
Hide Your Struggles, Protect Your Dignity
I once read about Zahiruddin Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, who suffered a severe skin condition that caused unbearable itching. The irritation was so intense that even the slightest touch of fabric against his skin would make him scream. When his rival, Shaibani Khan, learned of this, he visited Babur under the guise of sympathy, hoping to relish his suffering.
Upon hearing of Shaibani’s arrival, Babur dressed in full royal regalia—adorned with a crown and robes from head to toe—and sat composedly in his court to greet him.
Shaibani Khan sat with Babur all day, even sharing meals, but Babur did not let a single trace of pain cross his face or voice. Eventually, Shaibani left, disappointed. The moment the guest departed, Babur tore off his royal garments. The entire court witnessed his body—raw, red, and covered in blisters. He had endured the agony silently all day.
**The Essence of This Story:**
The world cares little for our pain or struggles. Therefore:
- If you are ill, hide your sickness beneath your clothes; never let it show on your face.
- If you are poor, never let poverty reflect in your appearance.
- If you have failed, do not let defeat dim your spirit.
- If you are afraid, do not let fear tremble in your voice or eyes.
- If you lack knowledge, never let ignorance seep into your words or actions.
Believe me, life becomes easier this way. Otherwise, people will bury you alive with their judgments.
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**Key Takeaway:**
Dignity lies in resilience. Conceal your vulnerabilities, not out of shame, but to deny others the power to exploit your struggles.
In the very beginning of earth's history, this planet was a giant, red hot, roiling, boiling sea of molten rock - a magma ocean.
My mother had a habit of noticing every small thing. If she walked into my room and saw the lights on while I was away, she’d scold.