"مواظب باش که با چنگ زدن به سایه اصل را از دست ندهی"

The quote is urging us to be cautious about what we chase in life. It's easy to be tricked by illusions or distractions that look appealing but aren't really valuable. Instead, we should focus on what's genuinely important and real.

Historically, this kind of wisdom has been around for ages. Think back to Aesop’s fable, “The Dog and the Shadow.” A dog carrying a piece of meat looks down into a pond, sees his reflection, and snaps at it, thinking it's another dog with more meat. In the process, he drops his own meal into the water and loses everything. This tale has been passed down for generations precisely because it's such a relatable and timeless lesson about understanding true value versus mere appearances.

Imagine you're working hard to impress people at work — staying late, volunteering for every project, always being on call. But in the process, you're missing out on family dinners, your kid’s soccer games, and those rare moments of just hanging out with friends. You might think you’re building a great career, but you could be sacrificing your relationships and personal happiness. By grasping at professional accolades (the shadow), you risk losing genuine connection and fulfillment (the substance).

So, how can you apply this in your daily life? First, identify what really matters to you. Is it quality time with loved ones, personal growth, or perhaps a balanced lifestyle? Once you know your priorities, make a plan to focus on those. Don't get swayed by every shiny thing that comes your way.

Think about Jane, a friend of mine. She used to be obsessed with social media. Every time we hung out, she was glued to her phone, taking pictures, checking likes, and scrolling through feeds. She was so caught up in presenting a perfect online persona that she missed out on real-life fun. One day, after she missed a crucial moment — her brother’s engagement announcement — she had a wake-up call. She realized she was losing genuine moments by chasing an online image. So she started setting boundaries for her social media use, putting her phone away during family gatherings and friend hangouts. It wasn’t easy, but she soon found she was more present, more engaged, and genuinely happier.

Here’s something you can do today: make a list of your top five priorities. Keep it somewhere visible, like your fridge or your phone's lock screen. The next time you're tempted by something flashy that isn't on that list, take a moment to reconsider. Is it really worth your time and energy? This simple practice can help keep your focus on what truly matters.

So, next time you're faced with a choice, think about the dog and his shadow. Don’t let the illusion of something better make you lose sight of what you already have. Focus on the substance, and you'll build a more fulfilling, genuine life. And hey, sometimes the simplest advice turns out to be the most profound.