The Laksamana

The most important shape is circle

Basic shapes come in many, well, shapes.

There are Triangle, Rectangle, Square, Oval, bla bla bla.

The most important shape is circle. Physic 'dictates' that circle and derivative of circles (circular, oval, sphere) to be the most common shapes in the universe - Blackhole, Sun, Earth, Moon, Saturn rings, craters of meteors, raindrop, our eyes, chicken eggs, certain fruits,...

Being so common means it is the most energy-efficient and stable.

There's another reason why circle is important

It puts you in your place.

Your circle is the reason where you are in life and society.

I'm not talking about your geographic location. I'm talking about who you hang out with, who you talk to everyday, who you interact with most often, what kind of enemies you made. This is what we call "circle".

Great people have great circle

The bravest Mufti in Malaysia, Dr MAZA, whom often receive visits from reputable & respected individuals, is indeed a great person himself - but what kind of circle he has? How about Tun Dr Mahathir? - I don't think he hangs out with drinkers and online gamblers. Datuk Lee Chong Wei definitely spends his time with great athletes and great opponents.

The last Prophet, Muhammad bin Abdullah, is surrounded by selfless Companions and ruthless enemies. After his death, Companions continued this circle. Some of his Companions and families became leaders of nation, spreading his teachings, and eventually sparked the Golden Age of Islam. All because of being circled by strong believers and strong enemies.

Circle is a shape that shapes you

Sit together with losers, and the topic will be about "what vegetables can be put inside anus".

Sit together with scholars, and the topic will be about "critism of RUU Mufti and sectarianism".

No matter how firm you are, peer pressure will seep through your skin, and recolor your mindset. Never underestimate the effect of circle. If your circle is full of bright, well-mannered, successful people, you will rise to their level.

If your circle is full of liars, alcoholics, small-minded and fools, you and your dignity will fall to their level.

Circle is not just about friends

Your environment is your circle (anything that borders between you and the world you interact with). What you do everyday, where you go often, what books you read, what topic you talk with your loved ones, where you work.

Although education and job title does not define our destiny, it helps with access to high-quality places and important people. Some people even took drastic approach by moving into better neighbourhood so as to surround themselves and their children with well-mannered community.

Change your circle, and your life will change.