Next in the overall treatment for the heart is the importance of keeping
the company of good people, which is Allah's command: O You who
believe, fear Allah and be among the truthful ones(Quran, 9:119). It is
astonishing how people can influence others simply by being in each
other's company. The company one keeps has major effects. It may lead to
either benefit and improvement or harm and corruption,
depending on whether the company is that of pure and eminent people or
those who are immoral and evil. This effect does not appear suddenly,
but is a gradual process that unfolds with time. Good company includes
those who are in the state of gratitude; they are thankful for what
they have and do not waste time complaining. One takes on their
excellent qualities. One should befriend people who elevate one's
station. Anyone who tells you to indulge in the world is defrauding you.
When it comes to worldly possessions; it is good to associate with
people who have lesser means. The company of wealthy people opens a
person to coveting what they have. When it comes to Hereafter; it is
better to associate with people who are superior to you in their desire
for the understanding for it.
