Martin Rooney’s Post

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow ! James 4:14 “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” King James Version

Embracing Collective Success: An Islamic and Cognitive Perspective In a world often characterized by individual pursuits and competition, the concept of success takes on a deeper meaning when viewed through the lens of Islamic teachings and cognitive insights. Rooted in the Qur'an and Hadith, as well as supported by cognitive theories, the notion emphasizes the significance of cooperation, empathy, and acknowledging the achievements of others. Islamic teachings highlight the importance of community and cooperation in achieving success. Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2) underscores the value of collaborating in righteousness and piety, emphasizing that success is not merely about individual accomplishments but also about how we interact and support each other in virtuous endeavors. The verse states: "And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression." (Quran 5:2) The Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, wherein the Prophet (peace be upon him) compares believers to a solid building, further emphasizes the necessity of unity and mutual support in achieving common goals. The Hadith states: "The believer to the believer is like a solid building, one part supporting the other." (Bukhari and Muslim) From a cognitive perspective, the concept aligns with theories such as social learning theory, which posit that individuals learn and model behavior based on observing others. Celebrating the successes of others fosters a positive and supportive environment, encouraging further achievements. This positive reinforcement not only uplifts individuals but also contributes to a culture of encouragement and motivation. In line with Oprah Winfrey's insight, success is indeed about the journey we take with others, not just the destination. In a world where competition can sometimes overshadow camaraderie, it's essential to pause and appreciate the victories of those around us. Success isn't a solitary journey but rather a collective endeavor. By making it a habit to cheer for others through applause, congratulations, or simple gestures, we cultivate a culture of encouragement that uplifts everyone. Embracing collective success promotes a sense of togetherness and garners love among individuals. It fosters unity and strengthens the bonds within communities. By actively participating in the journey of others and acknowledging their triumphs, we not only contribute to a more harmonious and prosperous society but also cultivate a culture rooted in empathy, cooperation, and love. Guided by both spiritual principles and cognitive insights, embracing collective success becomes a powerful means to promote unity and love in our communities and beyond.

It is really this simple.

IT'S THAT SIMPLE

It is that simple.

In a world that often values constant productivity and hustle, taking a break can feel like a radical act. Yet, this past year, I chose to do just that. I took a step back to focus on what truly matters to me: serving on the board of a small NGO, engaging in meaningful work, practicing yoga, and taking the time to grieve, rest, and recover. This break has allowed me to follow my joy and recharge, but it has also raised an important question: Will taking this time off be a hindrance when I’m ready to re-enter the workforce? More importantly, do I want to work for an employer who doesn’t value the necessity of taking a break when needed? Thank you 💥 Amy Kean 💥 for sharing Gabor Maté’s wisdom where he discusses the importance of taking time to rest and play. It resonated deeply with me and reinforced my belief that prioritizing our well-being is not just beneficial but essential. As I reflect on my journey and look towards the future, I am reminded of the importance of aligning with organizations that value the well-being of their employees. I believe that taking breaks, when needed, should be seen as an investment in one’s long-term productivity and creativity, rather than a hindrance. So, I invite you to join the conversation: How can we shift the narrative to recognize the importance of rest and play in our professional lives? How can we create a work culture that values and supports taking breaks for our overall well-being?

When my grandma Vicki was struck down and murdered by a 14 year old high school dropout, my world detonated. The very laws of physics came into question. Up was down. Down was up. The center of gravity no longer existed. I was faced with two existential questions: 1. Is it possible after an incident of unimaginable depravity to forgive someone who doesn’t express any remorse? 2. Will it be possible to experience joy again, knowing that time doesn’t actually heal all wounds and you will face certain tragedies (violence, suicide, death of a child, etc) that never leave you? I have lived my life pursuing in thoughts and deeds answers to these burning questions. Every ounce of labor I expend honoring Vicki’s incredible legacy brings a tenfold measure of healing. Part of what I’ve learned is expressed by this physician talking about not working so hard to justify our existence. Rather, it’s about living an examined life with playfulness, and joy in the company of friends, family and loved ones— empathetic and kind to all, no matter what they’ve done. We cannot seek harm for those who harm us or we will never know joy again. We won’t be unburdened by retribution. The obverse is true. We must practice kindness especially to those who don’t deserve it. We will live unburdened and joyful when we seek no harm under any circumstance, and offer love to all those who cross our pass. MarketScale

As you go about your careers which is constantly busy and you create a retirement plan, how about a Financial Plan which incorporates a fulfilling life before and throughout retirement so you don’t have a regret like this. Very touching video.

Please watch and listen to this, we can all learn from this.