1. In life, do not strive to please people. Please your Creator and remain true to yourself.

2. People will often misinterpret your private life. Some will call you proud, others will say you are full of yourself. Do not be distracted—rather, hold yourself accountable before Allah holds you accountable.

3. In everything you do, choose sincerity over the mere image of goodness. People may be ungrateful, but Allah rewards sincerity, and with time, people will come to see your true intentions.

4. Human beings are usually only interested in hearing what they want. Do not waste time explaining yourself unnecessarily—except when it is truly needed.

5. Do not take the role of an ustadh (teacher) with the expectation of respect or admiration from your students. They may one day turn against you, and Allah may test your patience through them. Remain steadfast.

6. Sometimes, those you sacrifice for, guide, and nurture may eventually become your enemies. Remember the two Musas: one raised under the care of Jibril yet misled others, and the other raised under Fir'awn, the enemy of Allah, yet chosen as His messenger. Likewise, those you dedicate yourself to may still oppose you—be patient and sincere, for the end will justify the means.

7. Never become an enemy to yourself. A student who does not regard you as a teacher is not truly your student—forcing it may only bring disgrace.

8. If anyone wrongs you despite your sincerity and rightful dealings with them, leave the matter to Allah. Do not over-explain yourself to people, for they will only judge to please you. Instead, wait for Allah, the Ultimate Judge, to vindicate you.