Verse (Roman transliteration)
Maa Kuru Dhana Jana Yauvana Garvam,
Harati Nimeshaatkaalah Sarvam
Maayaamayam Idamakhilam Hitvaa,
Brahmapadam Tvam Pravisha Viditva
Translation
Do not take pride in wealth, followers, or youth. Time seizes all of these in a moment. Knowing that this entire world is illusion, enter the abode of Brahman.
The teaching
Three sources of human pride — money, social standing, and youth — are named and dismissed in one sweep. Time is the great equaliser. No one escapes it. Having acknowledged what time takes, Shankara points to what time cannot touch: the ground of pure being, Brahman. To "enter" it is not to go somewhere — it is to recognise what was always already here.
Living this today
Illustrative example: When a younger colleague receives recognition, notice any comparison before reacting. Offer a specific acknowledgement of their work. Their success need not settle the question of your worth.