The atom is the final unit of matter, just as the
individual is the final unit of society. If one
succeeds in breaking an atom one does not destroy
it; rather one converts it into a greater force, known
as atomic energy. Matter is energy in a solid form
and energy matter in a dispersed form. When the
atoms of matter are broken and converted into
atomic energy, they are transformed into a force
much more potent than in their material form.
A locomotive consumes two tons of coal in seventy
miles; a motorcar uses up a gallon of petrol every
twenty to forty miles. But when uranium weighting
just twelve pounds is converted into atomic energy,
it is able to convey a high-speed rocket on a 40,000-
mile journey into space. That’s how great the
difference is between ordinary material energy and
atomic energy.
So it is with that unit of society known as man.
When man is ‘broken,’ his horizons expand vastly.
Just as breakage does not destroy matter, so defeat
does not ruin man. Matter increases in strength
when broken up. So man, when defeated, gains
new, increased strength.
When man is beset by defeat, his inner forces are
released. His senses are aroused. His concealed
strength comes to the fore and he sets about
redressing his setback. Spurred on with new resolve
and determination, he devotes himself to the task of
regaining what has been lost. An irresistible spirit
arises within him. Nothing can arrest his advance.
Like a river flowing to the sea, he surmounts every
obstacle in relentless pursuit of his goal.
The occurrence of an atomic explosion in matter
turns it into a vastly more powerful substance. The
human personality, too, contains huge, latent
potential. This potential bursts out into the open
when there is an eruption within one’s soul. It
breaks free when some shattering disaster afflicts
one. The strings that have held one down are torn
apart and begin to vibrate to the tune of life.
Ref - The Moral Vision
- by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
