Fundamentally, everything we own we’ve been given. Even the things that I strived to get — the things I stayed up nights working to achieve, were ultimately granted. There are many people out there that have worked just as hard, and harder, and yet have nothing to show for. To recognize that fact, and to be aware of it, is to be thankful.
This holds multiple meanings to me. For one, it means that just because someone hasn’t achieved the same level of success, it doesn’t always mean they didn’t try hard enough.
Secondly, give people a break! Especially those that are less fortunate than myself. Try to give back however you can .. I’ll try to share the blessings I’ve been given with others.
TL;DR: Give back.
Disclaimer: This is a description of my understanding of the verses in the Quran, and not the real true meaning of the verse. My understanding changes over time – I see many things differently than I did 3 years ago, and my understanding can (nay, it should) evolve with time. Think about how your understanding of the role of parents changes as you grow – first as a kid, then a teenager and later as a parent yourself. Your understanding evolves with time. The true meaning of the verses however, does not. I make absolutely no claims that this is in any way a resemblance of the true meaning of the verses. Instead, this is really just meant to be a record for me – a notebook of sorts, where I think over the meaning verses and try to glean valuable lessons with which I hope to apply to better myself.