Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
Looking back, I can see it now.
If I'd truly remembered how short my time was, I wouldn't have wasted so much of it. I wouldn't have chased things that don't last.
Remember while you are young how precious your time is.
Fareed speaks with the honest voice of hindsight, which means seeing clearly only when you look back. Jay jaanaa mar jaa-ee-ai ghum na aa-ee-ai — if I had known I would die and not come back, I would not have ruined myself holding on to a false world.
It is someone looking back and seeing how much time went to things that did not matter. They forgot how short and precious the time was. But Fareed does not want us to sit in regret. He shares his hindsight as a gift to the young: learn it now, so you never need it later.
Think of a school year. If you remember in September how fast June comes, you use the year well. Spend your days on what lasts, and you will be so glad you did.
What would 'not wasting' your precious time look like for you?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI