"العمل يبقي بعيدًا ثلاث شرور عظيمة الملل والرذيلة والحاجة"

Work fundamentally serves as a strong defense against three significant negative aspects of life: boredom, immorality, and lack. It's a simple thought, but there's a lot packed into it.

Historically, this idea has roots in philosophy and literature. For instance, Voltaire, a French Enlightenment writer and philosopher, is known for promoting the value of work. He believed that engaging in productive activities prevents people from falling into destructive behaviors and idle discontent. This perspective became especially relevant during times of social upheaval, like the Industrial Revolution, when work was seen as a means to counter the widespread poverty and social unrest.

Let’s break it down with a real-life example. Think about someone you know—or maybe it’s you—who’s recently retired. They've worked for decades, their days filled with purpose and structure. But suddenly, with nothing to do, they start feeling restless. They miss the daily grind, even the parts they used to complain about. Without work, boredom creeps in. This can lead to feelings of emptiness. Some might start indulging in unhealthy habits—maybe drinking too much or other vices. And if they didn't plan well, they might even find themselves in financial trouble, feeling the pinch of need.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Staying engaged in meaningful work, whether it’s a paid job, volunteering, or even a hobby, can keep our minds sharp and our spirits high. It doesn’t have to be a traditional 9-to-5 job. Think about activities that fill your time productively and align with your interests. Teach a class, write a blog, learn a language—stay active and purposeful.

Now, let’s dive into a relatable story. Imagine Sarah, a graphic designer who loves her job. She’s passionate about creating beautiful designs and solving visual problems. But she also dreams about winning the lottery and quitting her job. One day, luck strikes—she wins big. She quits her job and spends the first few months traveling the world, indulging in luxuries, living her dream life. Eventually, though, the novelty wears off. She finds herself with nothing much to do. Shopping and lounging around gets old. She’s bored. She starts looking for excitement in risky behaviors and soon realizes she’s missing the creativity and structure her work provided. She decides to start a small design firm, not because she needs the money, but because she needs the work. It gives her days structure, keeps her mind engaged, and helps others by providing jobs.

The wisdom here is clear: work, in its many forms, is crucial to a balanced life. It’s not just about earning money; it’s about maintaining mental health and staying away from the pitfalls of boredom and vice. So, think about what you love to do, what keeps you engaged and motivated. Find ways to incorporate that into your daily routine. Whether it’s through a job, a hobby, or volunteer work, keep yourself busy with meaningful activities.

And remember, it’s okay to rest and relax. Balance is key. But when work feels like a burden, take a step back and think about the bigger picture. Work isn’t just about the paycheck—it’s about keeping those three evils at bay and leading a fulfilling life.