This is with reference to the letter “Audacity of hope” by Taheer Ahmed (Sept. 19). I do agree with the views of the writer to some extent. However, it seems that the writer stopped short of defining the term “success.” Before lecturing youth on “success” and attitude toward life, we should try to define this term. The definition of “success” is very subjective. If one goes by what Taheer Ahmed has written, one would conclude that he has a very narrow perspective or he believes that leading a successful life means achieving material success or living a life in pursuit of material gains.

I have nothing against this concept. There is no harm in striving for the best in this world but becoming obsessed with this idea is dangerous. Being Muslims, our idea of success should be crystal clear and according to the teachings of Islam. Our religion does not forbid its followers from earning money. We have to be careful that we don’t earn money from unlawful means. We should not suppress or oppress others for our personal gains. We should be mindful of the rights of others. It is un-Islamic to usurp the rights of other people or to harm other people in pursuit of selfish interests. It is perfectly Islamic to earn wealth without violating the code of conduct described in Islam.

As for the term “success,” I believe that a truly successful person is the one who is aware of the purpose of his existence in this world, who is mindful of his obligations toward Allah and His creations.

A successful person is the one who knows he will be raised after death and will be held accountable for all his actions in this world. A person is successful if and only if he submits to the will of Allah and leave for his heavenly abode in such a state that his creator is pleased with him. The root cause of many of our social problems lies in our disgusting materialist approach toward life.