Certain people are faced with a state of affairs where various factors, such as employment for example, or something or other, result in the better part of their lives being spent in a state of darkness. Neither do they strive to observe the Prayer with regularity, nor do they find the opportunity to listen to the words of Allah and His Messengersa. They do not even think to ponder over the Book of Allah. When a long period of time passes in this dark state, this way of thinking becomes firm-rooted and takes on the form of a second nature. Hence, at such a time, if one does not turn one’s attention to repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah, then know that such a one is truly unfortunate. The best remedy for negligence and indolence is seeking forgiveness from Allah. Even if faced with a trial on account of their previous failings or indolence, let them wake up during the nights to fall in prostration and offer supplications, and promise to make a sincere and holy transformation in the presence of God.
(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 20-21)