Take The Treasures

This world is a field to work for the hereafter. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Ãlayhi Wasallam)'s Ummah has been sent in this world for a very great object.
The example of this world is like a king who sends a few people into his treasure room saying that shortly he will send them out, so at that time whatever they will be possessing will be their property.
Inside the treasure room, on one side there are heaps of gold and silver, on another side are lying pearls and jewels, then at another place in the room, delicious food and soft beds are arranged.
Now some people think that the king may send them out any minute. They quickly gather the gold, silver, pearls and gems. They feel they will go out from there and organize the food and beds for themselves afterwards.
There is another group of people who think that they have just arrived. They feel, 'Let us enjoy the food, then lay down to rest. After that we will take from the treasures. There is ample time.' So they eat, sleep and pass their valuable time without taking from the treasures.
Suddenly the king sends everyone out. Now those who had collected the valuables can enjoy their lives eating and sleeping while those that wasted their time and did not accumulate anything will begin to regret.

~excerpts from http://www.beautifulislam.net/halalharam/birthdays.htm