“We have divided among them their livelihood…” (QS. Az‑Zukhruf: 32)
Do not be envious of anyone’s life. You know what has been given to others, but you do not know what has been withheld from them.
A book cover is one thing, its contents another. Fame is a test that has caused many to fail. Power is a temptation that has blinded many, making them forget their purpose of creation. Wealth is a sorcerer that stole Qarun’s common sense. Status is a temptation that led Zulaikha to wrong a prophet Allah (Yusuf alaihis salaam).
You are exactly where you are meant to be. You do not need to compare yourself with others. Those who keep comparing themselves to others will never experience satisfaction of life and can never live in peace. May Allah guide us!
By Adham Sharqawi with slight edit and addition (Shamsi Ali Al-Nuyorki).