Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet of God said: 'Such people will go to heaven whose hearts are like those of little birds.' (Musnad Ahmad)

Small birds possess a unique feature that is absent from all other animals. That is, the birds are free of feelings such as hatred and vengeance. All other animals have an instinct of attacking when threatened, but birds are completely free of such instinct. Looking at a little bird, you will immediately recognize that it is an embodiment of sweetness, tenderness, and innocence. That is why the dove has been universally declared a symbol of peace.

According to the above-quoted Hadith, this is the heavenly quality that every individual who is desirous of Paradise must have. A heavenly personality is one that is completely free of all negativity. A bird has this positive quality by virtue of its instincts, whereas a heavenly personality has this quality as a conscious choice.

A heavenly person is one who has moulded himself in such a way that his heart is completely devoid of feelings such as hatred and vengeance; who is able to control anger; who does not react negatively to situations; who can respond with love despite hatred from others; who can do good to people selflessly; who is able to live amongst people while considering all of them as his brothers and sisters; who averts all evil, seeking out the company of angels; who patiently bears all complaints; who carries out his duties and asks his rights from God—these are those superior qualities which will make a person deserving of entering Paradise.

Source: Spirit of Islam April 2014