Embrace Hard Work, Truth, and Sacrifice - Haneef Sam Keelson

At the recent Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya National Aamila capacity-building session, Haneef Sam Keelson, Former Naib Sadr Administration of MKA Ghana, delivered a compelling presentation inspired by the La'iha-e-'Amal guidelines. These guidelines provide office bearers and members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya with clear principles to follow, emphasizing spiritual and personal development. Keelson's message deeply resonated with the audience as he highlighted the attributes required to become a true servant of God, which span beyond physical strength into emotional, spiritual, and intellectual realms.

Keelson opened his talk by stressing the importance of tireless effort, using La'iha-e-'Amal as a framework for living a life dedicated to the service of Allah. He posed a crucial question: "Can you work tirelessly for 13 or 14 hours a day?" True commitment to God's cause, he explained, involves working with diligence, even when the work is gruelling or thankless. "If you are willing to work without expecting immediate rewards, you are on the path to achieving greatness in both this world and the next," he said. He reinforced this message by reminding the audience that no genuine service comes without sacrifice.

The importance of truthfulness was also a central theme of the session. "Can you speak the truth, no matter the circumstances?" he asked. For a person to be a true servant of God, their commitment to truth must be unwavering, even when it may lead to discomfort or conflict. He emphasized that a man of God must never tolerate lies, whether from a close friend or a stranger. "A true servant of God is defined by his honesty," he stated, which resonated with the audience, encouraging them to reflect on the value of integrity in all aspects of their lives.

The concept of humility and freedom from false pride also took center stage. "Can you walk in the streets carrying a load or perform tasks others might deem beneath you?" he challenged. A true servant of God dares to engage in acts of service without concern for personal dignity. Drawing on examples of great spiritual figures, he encouraged the youth to adopt a mindset of humility, embracing servant leadership and stepping outside their comfort zones to serve others in unexpected ways.

Keelson also touched on the importance of seclusion for reflection and spiritual growth. He explained that sitting in solitude, remembering Allah, and engaging in personal prayer are critical practices for recharging spiritually. "Can you isolate yourself in seclusion to pray and reflect? This is essential for spiritual development," he stated, emphasizing that connection with God is vital for effective leadership.

Resilience was another major theme of his talk. "Can you travel alone, carrying nothing but your own weight, facing challenges without fear?" he asked. Resilience, he explained, is key to overcoming obstacles, and it's the true test of one's character. He reminded the audience of those who sacrifice comfort and security for the sake of their mission, and the importance of staying steadfast in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Keelson called on the audience to ask themselves: "Are you willing to face the world's rejection and still say 'yes' to the mission that God has assigned to you?" True leadership, he explained, requires not shrinking away from challenges or mockery. Instead, a leader must hold their head high, knowing that their purpose is greater than any worldly setback. He referenced the unwavering commitment required to achieve success in God's eyes, emphasizing that failure comes only when one fails to put in the necessary effort.

He urged the youth in the audience to search for the qualities of a true servant of God, not just in others but within themselves. Reminding them of the words of Mirza Mehmood Ahmad, the Musleh-e-Ma'ud, who urged the youth to embody principles of selflessness and commitment, Keelson concluded, "A man of God is in search of you. But are you ready to take on the challenge and become the person God is looking for?"

The session concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the attendees, who left with a clearer understanding of the sacrifices, resilience, and commitment required to lead with integrity and dedication.