Acquiring fame is a natural human instinct. As human beings, we want to become prominent among our brethren. This is basically a positive trait. However, we must be very cautious in this regard as it can easily lead to pompous behaviour and induce us to flaunt our fame.

Some suggestions may help in this regard.

Firstly, we should let fame spread naturally, just as the fragrance of a flower spreads naturally. Adopting unbecoming means of promotion and marketing our talents more often than not leads to showing off, something which tarnishes the mirror of our souls.

Secondly, we must shun spreading false fame. So strong is the will to become famous that at times we take to outright deception. We trick others to believe that we have certain traits. Needless to say, this is an extremely wrong trend. Longing for recognition must not make us cheat people.

Thirdly, the more famous a person becomes, the more humble and thankful he should become. It should not make him arrogant. A person must realize that fame is more God-given than self-earned. He should always be grateful to God for this and continue to think that he can be stripped of it, if God intends.

Fourthly, a person should use God-given fame to help people in need as far as possible. Working for charitable causes and raising funds for the under-privileged should become a part of life.

Fifthly, there is one trait in which every human being has the ability to outdo others even if he or she does not have any particular pronounced talent: righteousness. To be an upright person is a target each one of us can achieve through dedication and commitment. We do not need to have extra-ordinary traits of mind, body or soul to be virtuous.

Let us then live not only in this world as exemplary human beings but also in the hearts of people when we pass away. Let God mention our rectitude to His angels!

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