BEYOND BACKGROUNDS
Every human being is a master creation of the Almighty, endowed with unique potentialities, talents, capabilities, and interests. This inherent diversity is a testament to the greatness of humanity, showcasing the extraordinary abilities that can emerge from various backgrounds. However, realizing this potential requires dedication and hard work. The journey to excellence is rarely straightforward; it demands perseverance, resilience, and a strong will to overcome obstacles.
The significance of hard work cannot be overstated. Whether aspiring to excel academically, pursuing a career in medicine or engineering, or aiming for prestigious civil service positions, the path is often met with challenges. Yet, those who possess the determination to push through these hurdles are the ones who achieve remarkable success. Human willpower is a vital ingredient in this equation because without a genuine desire to accomplish something meaningful, even the most talented individuals may falter.
In today’s competitive landscape, exams serve as crucial gateways for career advancement. Young people invest countless hours preparing for challenging assessments, driven by their ambitions and dreams. Many succeed through sheer hard work, proving that perseverance can lead to triumph, regardless of one’s background. Stories about various individuals from humble beginnings, such as farmers’ children or vegetable sellers’ offspring or a tailor’s daughter who have conquered these examinations and emerged as doctors, engineers or civil servants are often stereotyped.
Unfortunately, there has been a troubling trend in recent years, particularly in regions like Kashmir, where media narratives especially social media often focus on familial backgrounds rather than individual achievements. Comments suggesting that only the elite have the right to high-profile jobs undermine the hard work and dedication of those from less privileged circumstances. This stereotype is not only unfair; it is detrimental to the very essence of meritocracy. A candidate’s worth should be evaluated based on their efforts and accomplishments, not their family lineage.
We must shift the narrative and appreciate the hard work of students and candidates for who they are and what they have achieved. Celebrating individual merit and resilience, rather than overemphasizing family background, fosters a more inclusive society. Recognizing that anyone, regardless of their origins, can excel promotes hope and ambition among young people from all walks of life.It is essential to encourage a culture that values hard work, dedication, and individual achievement. By doing so, we not only uplift those striving for success but also reinforce the idea that every person, regardless of their background, has the potential to achieve greatness. This shift in perspective is vital for creating a more equitable society where talent and effort are celebrated above all else. Together let’s advocate for a future, where every individuals journey is recognized and valued, fostering an environment where merit and determination can truly flourish.
(The writer is an independent columnist and academician and can be reached at [email protected])
