Excerpts: Ahmed is one of the tens of thousands of Pakistanis to be injured in the violence that has gripped the country since the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an armed anti-state group that has targeted civilians and security forces alike, was formed in 2007. His brother, Usman, was less fortunate. The 12-year-old was killed in the blast, along with at least 12 others. And it is when speaking of Usmans death that Haseebs voice becomes laced with anger. My brother was dead. I was so angry. I want to tell them that they should be ashamed of themselves, for killing innocents. , he said. This is not in Islam. God will curse them for this. ______________________________ NOTE: The time is now for real, strategic dialogue. Hopefully, the pragmatism and wisdom among some of those within the TTP will listen to the calls of the people to bring an end to the violent, needless bloodletting of brothers. Change cannot be imposed. What does faith teach us, but that we must change from within first before society can be changed. Forcing the people and imposing an agenda or will on another through the use of violence will only perpetuate divisions and increase the hatred between members of the community. How many children are left now without parents? What is their future? Look at the poverty and living conditions; what should the dreams of the children be? How many will be traumatized because of battles? Look at the refugees who fled Afghanistan and are now living in Pakistan. Listen to their stories. How many children will listen to their mothers and father sob in their sleep at night because of the horrors experienced or in remembrance of the horrors their family members experienced? Brotherhood means taking care of one another, mending the wounds, and building together the hope needed to carry the children into the future. Why not give meaning to the lives of those lost on the battlefield, across both dividing lines, by working together to build a strong and beautiful Pakistan. The world and even many among the Pakistani community believe that these talks will fail. Be the warriors of justice and prove everyone wrong, and that this time the ideas of faith, brotherhood and compassion will guide intention and the dialogue process. Recall that the principles of justice are not to be limited to the community but to all; recall the role of An-nas and the duty one holds. ~N~
Posted on: Sun, 02 Feb 2014 05:30:29 +0000
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