The best things a person is given

بـسـم الله والحـمـد لله والـصلاة والـسـلام عــلى رسـول الله، وبـعـد

Habeeb al-Jalaab said: It was said to Ibn al-Mubaarak رحمه الله: What is the best thing a person is given? He said: “Sound instinct (intelligence).” It was said: What if he is not given this? He said: “Good manners.” It was said: What if he is not given this (also)? He said: “A good brother from whom he seeks advice.” It was said: What if he is not given this (also)? He said: “Prolong silence.” It was said: What if he is not given this (also)? He said: “Early death (i.e. short lifespan).” [Rawdhatul `Uqalaa’ (1/4)]