We should think of ourselves as a soul with a body instead of a body with a soul. It is in our nature to know who Allah is, to know the truth but sometimes we lose our way. Principal Wadud speaks about what Allah says in 16:125 Surah An-Nahl (The Bee) “Invite all to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice, and only debate with them in the best manner. Surely your Lord alone knows best who has strayed from His Way and who is rightly guided.” If you know someone who has lost their way or needs to be reminded, do it in a way that lifts them up and does not bring them down. Allah even advised His prophet Musa to do this with Pharaoh, who was most astray as one of the worst human beings. Allah says in 20:44 Surah Taha “Speak to him gently, so perhaps he may be mindful of Me or fearful of My punishment.”
We only have one life, one chance to do things right. If someone is missing their chance we should not let them be but try to remind them, to offer sincere advice that can bring them back to their best. Offer the advice in the best way. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that our religion is sincere advice. Give advice not to make someone feel bad or make you feel better than them. Give it because you really want to help them.
Principal Wadud offers these steps to consider when someone offers a correction or advice: be open and curious; make an intention to consider the feedback; don’t judge what’s being offered and explore ways to benefit from the advice.
Principal Wadud concludes with a true story showing the rewards of patience which is among the proofs that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger of God.