Dignity of Work and the Path to True Professionalism
By: Sahil Manzoor
All living beings on Earth need food to survive. However, it’s important to remember that food is not the ultimate purpose of life—it’s merely a requirement to fuel the body’s biological processes such as growth, development, and maintaining good health.
In essence, life is a constant journey of fulfilling this basic need. Different species adopt different means to obtain food—some are herbivorous, some carnivorous, others omnivorous.
Some creatures feed on decaying matter, some consume waste, and some seek out fresh, healthy sources. This natural system forms a food chain where every being, directly or indirectly, depends on others—a cycle that began with the origin of life itself.
This dependence isn’t limited to food alone. We also rely on one another for support, love, protection, guidance, and cooperation. Since the dawn of life, this mutual dependency has shaped our existence.
Looking ahead, we must ensure that future generations inherit a world grounded in strong morals, ethics, and behaviors. True development lies not just in technological progress, but in the advancement of our character and humanity.
One must remember: we are not defined by the degrees we hold, but by the way we behave. Society remembers your kindness, humility, and how you treat others—not the certificates you display. No one is born with a degree in their hand; it is our behavior, respectfulness, and compassion that earn us a lasting place in people’s hearts.
Today, I want to focus on the concept of becoming a true professional. The dictionary defines a profession as “an occupation, trade, craft, or activity in which one has professed expertise; a job, especially one requiring a high level of skill or training.”
Every day begins with rituals and routines—Muslims go to mosques for prayer, Hindus to temples, Sikhs to gurdwaras, and Christians to churches. From morning to evening, people engage in their work—some are doctors, teachers, engineers, shopkeepers, drivers, or farmers. Society classifies professions into different ranks, but what we often forget is that every role has its importance.
Think of the many objects and conveniences around us—kitchen utensils, garden flowers, vehicles, and buildings. Behind each of these creations is human effort and skill. We often admire famous professionals like doctors, professors, or engineers. Why? Because they are loyal to their work, honest in their efforts, and committed to excellence.
Yet, certain jobs—like that of a conductor, cleaner, or cobbler—are often looked down upon. This is unfair and uninformed. Imagine life without them. Who would fulfil the needs they meet every day? Every profession deserves respect when performed with dedication and sincerity. No work is small if done with honesty and a sense of service.
If someone dreams of becoming a doctor, they should stay focused on learning and serving, not chasing fame. Let us take our work as a form of worship. Be it teaching, healing, repairing shoes, or driving a bus—perform your duties with heart and integrity. Success, recognition, and satisfaction will surely follow.
Sacrifice your distractions, stay true to your calling, and let your actions speak louder than your titles. The world remembers not just the educated, but the kind-hearted professionals who make a difference through their actions.
