Be more dedicated to making solid achievements than in running

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, the “Missile Man” of India and the humble philosopher of science, once offered this radiant counsel: “Be more dedicated to making solid achievements than in running after swift but synthetic happiness.” In these words lies the wisdom of one who had gazed into the heart of both success and simplicity. Dr. Kalam, who rose from the small coastal town of Rameswaram to the presidency of a nation, had tasted both the struggles of labor and the sweetness of triumph. His message is not merely about work, but about the purpose of life itself — that true joy is born not from momentary pleasure, but from meaningful achievement, from building something lasting and real.

To the impatient soul, swift happiness is tempting — it glitters, but it fades. It is the pleasure of applause without effort, the satisfaction of reward without the weight of responsibility. It is synthetic, as Kalam calls it — man-made, hollow, and fleeting. Like a mirage in the desert, it deceives the thirsty heart, offering refreshment but giving only dust. Yet the wise know that real fulfillment is not swift, and never synthetic. It is solid, built stone by stone through perseverance, sacrifice, and integrity. The road to such achievement is long and steep, but it leads to something far greater than pleasure — it leads to peace and honor.

Dr. Kalam’s own life is the embodiment of this truth. Born into poverty, he sold newspapers as a boy, studied under the flicker of a kerosene lamp, and walked miles to attend school. He did not chase after comfort or quick success. Instead, he devoted himself to discipline, to the pursuit of knowledge, and to the service of his country. Through years of tireless labor and silent struggle, he became one of India’s greatest scientists, launching satellites into the sky and dreams into the hearts of millions. His happiness was not synthetic; it was earned — the joy of one who gives his best, and whose work uplifts others.

In the ancient world, the same truth was known to philosophers and warriors alike. The Greek stoics taught that the pursuit of pleasure leads to slavery, but the pursuit of virtue leads to freedom. Marcus Aurelius, emperor of Rome, wrote, “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.” He knew, as Kalam did, that the soul grows not through comfort, but through dedication to what is just and worthwhile. The man who builds something enduring — be it knowledge, art, or kindness — stands taller than the one who chases the fleeting spark of pleasure.

Synthetic happiness is the illusion of progress — a substitute for true purpose. It is the glow of screens, the applause of crowds, the momentary thrill of praise. But once it passes, the heart feels empty again. The one who chases it becomes restless, always seeking, never satisfied. Solid achievement, on the other hand, is the joy of creation — of planting trees under whose shade others will rest. It may bring no fame, no immediate pleasure, but it nourishes the soul like deep water beneath the earth. It is built through patience, through humility, through the quiet strength of daily effort.

Kalam’s wisdom teaches that every great endeavor demands dedication — the steady devotion to a cause larger than oneself. To build something true — whether it be a nation, a family, a dream, or a character — one must endure delay, failure, and loneliness. But in the end, when the fruit ripens, it carries within it a sweetness untouched by decay. Such joy cannot be bought or borrowed; it must be earned through purpose. The world may forget the name of the seeker of pleasure, but it will always remember the builder of meaning.

So, my child of this fleeting age, take heed of this teaching: do not chase swift happiness — create lasting worth. Seek not the glow of approval, but the quiet fire of excellence. When others run after ease, choose effort; when others seek comfort, choose courage. Each day, commit yourself to building something that will outlive your years — knowledge, virtue, compassion, or faith. For happiness that is synthetic fades like smoke, but the peace born of solid achievement endures like stone. Be steady, be true, and let your life itself become the monument of your dedication. Then, and only then, will joy find you — not as a passing visitor, but as a companion for all your days.