The game of getting equal, turning personal biases, hurts and power-mongering into animosity, allegations and counter-allegations continues unabated. The culture of ‘Self before anything else’ has become pervasive. People never acknowledge their mistakes; it's always someone else's fault. This endless perfidious cycle has done little to address the root causes of our problems. Instead, it has created a society more focused on hate, vendetta, fault-finding, and escaping accountability than on finding solutions. No one admits failure; everyone claims personal success.

کام کو چھوڑ کے ہم نام کے پیچھے ہیں عطا     

وہ شجر بوۓ نہیں جن کے ثمر مانگتے ہیں

The decay is widespread, and everything is unraveling … Long List, only few below (All progressive and interconnected) :-

The First - Homes apparently have stopped churning out ‘Citizens’; early stages gone for the Candy Crush and later, opportunity allowing, ‘Crush the State Resources’. 

The Second … Our Educational Institutions, struggle with outdated curricula and inadequate resources. Product … On the display everywhere. 

Third … The Healthcare System, meant to safeguard the well-being of our citizens, is plagued by inefficiency and corruption. 

Fourth … The Planners and the Plans … Developmental and Welfare projects, which should herald progress, often become symbols of loot, mismanagement and broken promises. 

Fifth … Decades of bad governance, mismanagement, and swindling have left every Pakistani, from the newly conceived to those nearing the grave, under significant debt that may take decades to reduce and service.

These and many more are not merely failures of the State; these are collective failures that require collective responsibility.

Embracing  Reality 

The journey towards a better Pakistan starts with embracing Unity, Sincerity, State before Self mentality and Across the Board Accountability. Each of us has a role to play in this transformation. Whoever and wherever we are, our contributions matter. Instead of waiting for change to happen, we must be the change we wish to see. Let bygones be bygones and make a fresh start.

A Vision for the Future

Despite the current dismal conditions, there is hope. The potential for a prosperous and harmonious Pakistan exists within each of us. We have the talent, the resources, and the spirit to overcome adversity. However, this potential can only be realized if we shift our mindset from hate, vendetta, greed, selfishness and blame,  to action, from despair to hope, and from division to unity.

Ours is the Agro-Based State (much of the extremely fertile agricultural land though has been devoured by lemming-factor thrown Housing Societies) saving (the land), ploughing, sowing and scientific growing need of the hour.  We had a proficient Industrial base that must be revived. Our nation is rich in mineral resources, cultural heritage, natural beauty, and human capital. We are a land of diverse opportunities. By fostering a culture of positivity and resilience, we can harness these opportunities and transform them into tangible outcomes.

The Power of Positive Thinking

DREAMS DO MATERIALIZE. Somebody said, “The only place where dreams become impossible is in the thinking of the dreamer.”

This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. Our dreams for a better Pakistan are not unattainable fantasies; they are achievable goals that require dedication, optimism, and hard work. Positive thinking is not about ignoring our problems; it is about believing in our ability to solve them.

Let us move  towards a culture of accountability and positive action. Our successes and failures are our own, and it is within our power to shape the future of our nation. By dreaming big, thinking positively, and working collaboratively, (time running out fast) we can navigate through these dismal times and create a Pakistan that we are all proud to call home.

The journey will not be easy, but with determination and unity, we can turn our dreams into reality. 

Let us dream, Believe, and Achieve—Together

Akhtar N Janjua

With a thoughtful smile, he said, “I don’t have much to say, but I can share something from my younger days when I was training to become a pilot. Much of the instruction I’ve forgotten, yet one piece of advice still hovers around in my mind. We were taught that if, during a flight, we are lost, we must have recourse to the three Cs: Confess, Climb, and Communicate.”

He continued, “First, Confess that you are lost. Admitting you are in a predicament is the first step towards finding a solution. Second, Climb. Rather than descending into a pit of despair, ascend. Gain a higher perspective to increase your field of view, enabling you to spot significant landmarks or benchmarks that can guide you. Lastly, Communicate. Do not suffer in silence. Reach out and communicate your situation to others; it is vital for receiving assistance and guidance.”

One of us, moved by the simplicity and profundity of this advice, spontaneously remarked, "You’ve captured the Ocean in a Teacup." Indeed, the elderly gentleman had encapsulated a simple yet powerful analogy.

As we apply this aviation wisdom to the current socio-political landscape of Pakistan, it becomes clear that we are indeed lost. We must understand that our survival is intrinsically linked to the survival of Pakistan.

Reflecting on the advice of the elderly aviator, here’s what we need to do:

Confess: We must collectively acknowledge that we are lost. This is not a sign of weakness but of courage. Recognizing the depth of our problems is the first step towards recovery.

Climb: As a nation, we need to rise above the petty divisions and self-destructive behaviours. By elevating our perspective, we can see beyond immediate conflicts and identify the fundamental values and goals that unite us.

Communicate: Open and honest communication is crucial. We must engage in meaningful dialogues, both within our borders and with the international community. Through transparent and sincere communication, we can build trust and forge the partnerships necessary for progress.

In my last post I wrote about the “Law of Harvest “ which tells us that we reap more than we sow. If we continue to sow division, hatred, and corruption, the harvest will be bleak. However, if we sow seeds of unity, integrity, and empathy, we will reap a bountiful harvest of peace, prosperity, and strength.

The elderly gentleman’s wisdom, shared over a simple cup of tea, serves as a powerful reminder: Confess, Climb, and Communicate. Let us take these lessons to heart and work together to navigate through these turbulent times, ensuring a brighter future for Pakistan.

AKHTAR N JANJUA

On July 19, 2024, the Land and Property Sub Committee of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Government of Pakistan undertook a visit to Fateh Jang and Bagh Sardaran Rawalpindi. The visit highlighted an often-overlooked aspect of Pakistan's potential: its incredible promise as a global tourist destination.

The visit underscored immense possibilities. The Hindu Temple adjacent to the Judicial Complex in Fateh Jang stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and grace. Similarly, the Sojaan Singh Haveli in Bagh Sardaran is an architectural marvel that also captures the essence of interfaith harmony. This historic site houses a Hindu Temple, a Sikh Gurdwara, adjacent Mosques, and a Church—a remarkable example of coexistence ...  and ... Structural Splendour.

A Land of Untapped Wonders

From the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Areas, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Kashmir to the unspoiled beauty of Balochistan, from the enchanting deserts of Sindh and Thar to the diverse landscape and vibrant culture of Punjab, Pakistan is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The country is home to spiritual heavens for Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, alongside ancient sites like Taxila, Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and many more, not forgetting the Mughal grandeur. Each of these places holds the promise of not just attracting tourists but also offering them an unparalleled spiritual and cultural experience with eternal ecstasy.

Learning from Global Examples

Reflecting on the success of other countries serves as a compelling reminder. Not far away from Pakistan, Central Asian states have, in just 25 years, restored their historical sites, transforming them into major tourist attractions visited by people from around the world. The question then arises: why can't Pakistan achieve similar success?

Overcoming Barriers to Success

To unlock this potential, several critical areas need attention:

Security and Safety: Ensuring a secure environment for tourists is paramount. Without a sense of safety, even the most beautiful sites will remain unseen.

Facilitation and Infrastructure: Developing robust infrastructure and providing facilitation arrangements will make travel and accommodation more comfortable for visitors. This includes transportation, lodging, and modern amenities.

Restoration and Preservation: Historical and religious sites require meticulous restoration and preservation. This effort needs collaboration from the government, international organizations, and philanthropists.

Promotion of Religious Tourism: ETPB should spearhead initiatives to create a welcoming environment for Hindu and Sikh religious tourism. Millions of potential tourists may be eager to visit these sites, offering significant economic benefits.

A Call to Action

The potential economic benefits of a well-organized tourism industry are immense. Many states generate billions of dollars through tourism, a feat Pakistan can undoubtedly replicate with its rich historical and cultural tapestry. The government should take initiative towards the promotion, presentation, restoration, and preservation of these wonders. Collaboration with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), tourism departments, philanthropists, and donors worldwide can be of great assistance.

Pakistan, with its rich cultural heritage and unparalleled historical sites, has the potential to become a beacon for tourists from all over the globe. It's time for all concerned to come together and realize this vision. The world is ready to embrace Pakistan; Pakistan needs to open its doors wide and welcome them.

Let's unlock Pakistan's potential and share our treasures with the world. The opportunity has been and is there to benefit from and enrich others spiritually and culturally. 

Make Pakistan a global tourism haven.

Akhtar N Janjua

http://anjanjua.blogspot.com

Pakistan has been a Land of Contrasts, a place where we have witnessed Extreme Love and Herculean Hate, Jubilations and Profound Grief, Moments of Unity and Periods of Division. From the Jubilation of Independence to the Horrors  of Wars, from the Heights of Hope to the Depths of Despair, our journey has been Anything but Smooth. We have been sliced into two, and enemies, both within and without, are working hard to Fragment us Further.

Our history is marred by Hypocritical Politics, Injudicious Interventions, and Power Games driven by Opportunism of Himalayan Proportions. We've seen Backstabbing and Soul-Selling, No-Holds_Barred Corruption and  Unbridled Nepotism, Insane Injustices and Pliant Courts, Compromised Judges, and a Voiceless, Suffering Populace. while, an Elite Class thrives like Crocodiles, indifferent to the Plight of the Poor.

When shall we realize that we are cutting down the very Tree where our Nests Rest? Our actions, driven by short-term gains and narrow interests, are undermining the very foundations of our Nation. We fail to understand that our Existence is Inextricably linked to the well-being of Pakistan. Without it, we have no future.

Consider the profound truth in the saying: "The Law of Harvest is to Reap more than you Sow." This principle, drawn from the natural world, holds a mirror to our  actions. Our collective sowing of Division, Hate, and Corruption is yielding a bitter harvest. The injustices and inequities we perpetuate are coming back to haunt us, magnified many times over.

If we continue on this path, we are sowing the seeds of our own destruction. The tree we are cutting down is not just a metaphor; it represents our Nation, our Home. Without a stable and just Pakistan, there is no future for any of us, regardless of our social standing or personal achievements.

The time has come for us to fear retribution—Divine/Eeternal may, but mostly from the consequences of our own actions. History has shown that people that fail to heed the Lessons of Justice, Equity, and Unity ultimately perish. We stand at a crossroads where we must choose between continuing our current path or making a profound change.

Our survival depends on our Ability to Change. We must move beyond petty politics, beyond self-serving agendas and vendettas, and work towards a common good. We must nurture a culture of Accountability, Justice, and Empathy. The Elite must Recognize their responsibility towards the Masses, and all Pillars of State must stand firm against corruption, manipulation, injustice and coercion. 

Let us sow seeds of Unity, Justice, and Compassion. Let us work towards a Pakistan where every Citizen, regardless of background, has a Voice and a Stake in the Future.

The Law of the Harvest assures us that if we sow these seeds, we will reap a bountiful harvest of Love, Peace, Prosperity, and National Unity ... 

The time for Reflection and Action is now. We must Change or Perish. The Law of Harvest holds true, and we shall Reap what we Sow. 

Let us choose and act wisely, for Our Future, and for the Future of Pakistan.

AKHTAR N JANJUA

My last post garnered a beautiful comment from the highly respected and affectionate elder, Gen Faiz Jilani:

“Nice sharing indeed. Empathy is an essential aspect of accomplished leadership. Pray you would keep on passing through your conduct.”

Inspired by his words, the theme I have chosen for this blog is ‘Empathy,’ particularly reflected in the following statement:

“The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy; we can all sense a mysterious connection to each other.”

Friends, in 2003, I was posted at GHQ AG’s Branch as a Director responsible for induction in the Pak Army. In early 2004, a Major joined as a grade-2 staff officer. An infantry officer and graduate of C&SC, he had been superseded in the original board and two subsequent reviews, finally marked as UNFIT. Despite this, the gentleman had a pleasant demeanor, was untiring, and always stepped up to shoulder responsibilities. He ran from one recruiting office to another throughout Pakistan for quality checks, inspections, and supervision, never showing fatigue or uttering a word of complaint.

I wondered how such an officer had not been promoted. One day, I called him in and asked what had caused his supersession. He initially said, "Sir, let's forget," but I insisted. The gist of his story was this: In 1993, while serving in a war zone (Northern Areas), he was selected for SC. As it was mandatory to attend the Mid Career Course (MCC) as a prelude to SC, he joined the Infantry School for MCC. His ACR grade for 1992 in the war zone was "Well Above Average."

After MCC, he joined SC. During the course year in September, he was asked by the MS Branch to get his Interim Report initiated from his war zone unit. He complied, but the report came back as "Low Average" and labeled him with cowardice and command failure. Shocked, he represented his case, but it was not upheld, resulting in his being marked for review, review, and eventually unfit.

I was convinced something was wrong. His CO said he was asked by the GOC to give the report based on the CG’s personal observation. The General was serving nearby (Islamabad). He was contacted and told that the officer was wronged. Graciously, he agreed to see the officer and, upon first sight, exclaimed that the officer was a victim of mistaken identity. He had observed the failures in someone else. The General wrote a letter regretting the loss incurred by the officer, stamped his signature, and sent it.

Next stop was the Military Secretary’s Branch, which initially called it unprecedented but then relented. The ACR would not be removed, but the officer would be given another chance for review. He came up in the Board, was discussed, and not recommended.

DESTINY and EMPATHY join hands.

We were scheduled to proceed to Lahore for the induction of doctors. The night before the interview days, there was the Walima of the late Gen Majeed Malik’s grandson, and I was invited. I requested my DG if I could join early in the morning. He nodded. I booked myself on the morning flight. Fortunately, the flight was canceled due to inclement weather and rescheduled for the evening. Instead of sitting at home, I went to the office. Suddenly, the intercom chimed—it was Adjutant General Pak Army, Gen Faiz Jilani. In his typical warm and kind way, he asked, "Bhai G, weren’t you supposed to be in Lahore?" I explained the situation, and suddenly there was a flash in my brain. "Sir, isn’t it ratification day for promotion to LTC?" He confirmed and asked why I was interested. I told him about the officer. "You mean that case of mistaken identity?" he asked. "Yes, sir," I replied. "Ok, bring him down."

Jubilant, I called the officer and we headed to the AG’s Office. There we found the AG in his element. He questioned the officer, "Whom did you elbow? Whose foot did you trample? Mistaken identity? Baloney. I have commanded battalions, brigades, divisions, and a corps. I knew the name of every officer under my command and recognized them all by face. How can a General Officer write a thing like that? I am certain your Director managed it for you. Your Director is very dear to me, but if you want help, the truth can facilitate it."

By now, the officer was about to break down. He was ‘relieved’ and I too got up to leave but was told to sit down. The AG then said to me, "What do you say?" Thoroughly embarrassed, I admitted that I shouldn’t have spoken and brought the officer there. He reassured me, saying it was deliberate. He didn’t want to give the officer hope for just an hour or two because if he didn’t make it, he would be broken. He would talk to the Chief. He picked up the intercom, connected to the Military Secretary, and said, "Remember that case of mistaken identity? I am going to open it with the President, and you will speak merit only."

He went to the President’s Camp Office, called me after an hour or so, and said, "Bhai G, congratulations, your horse has made it. Bring him down to my office exactly fifteen minutes from now." I summoned the officer, congratulated him (he almost dropped dead), and led him to AG’s office. The AG was waiting by the door with a plate of Gulab-Jamans in hand. He made the newly approved officer eat one, planted a fatherly kiss on his neck, and told him to go congratulate his family and friends. He added, "By the way, ask your Director why I did what I did to you two hours back."

Now, there is the hand of destiny and the grab of empathy. Isn’t it?

The battle was still not over as the MS Branch was not willing to give him command of a battalion since his course mates were already Brigadiers or on the verge. But he did get the command in the war zone, earning consecutive outstanding reports. By the time he completed his command, he was due for retirement. Retirement orders were issued, and he was posted to a Division HQ. His unit was selected for a UN Mission due to excellent war performance. He was recalled, put in command, and took his unit on a peace mission.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

عن عبد الله بن عمرو رضي الله عنهما أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال:
«الرَّاحِمُونَ يَرْحَمُهمُ الرَّحمنُ، ارحَمُوا أهلَ الأرضِ يَرْحْمْكُم مَن في السّماء»

“Those who show mercy to others will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One above the heavens will have mercy upon you.”

In remembrance of empathy, may we always strive to be the ones who deliver kindness, forever staying in the hearts of those we touch.

AKHTAR N JANJUA

Someone once said, “Each person who delivers kindness stays with us forever.” This post of mine echoes that theme.

Friends, one of the comments on my last blog, "Essence of Being Truly Alive," was profoundly nostalgic and transported me back five decades in time.

At the Pakistan Military Academy, just a week before Passing Out, I was caught by the Duty Officer returning to campus around 2 a.m. after an unauthorized outing. The next day, as I was about to sign my final report, my Platoon Commander looked up and asked, "Were you checked last night?" "Yes, sir," I replied. He then said, "You shall not sign your report. Your case is under consideration. You may be withdrawn or relegated. I shall let you know."

I was crestfallen but continued with my duties, practicing for the ceremonial parade and attending to other necessary tasks. There was no further communication between the Platoon Commander and me.

Then came the night when we were to become juniors (a long-standing tradition) and were at the disposal of our juniors for whatever way they wanted to rag us. Past midnight, a gentleman from the third term took me to his room and said, "Sir, why are you enduring all this ragging when you don't even know what might become of you?"

Early in the morning, the Platoon Commander wanted me to see him in his office, but I was nowhere to be found. My friends mounted a frantic search and tracked me down. I hurriedly got ready and rushed to the office compound, barging straight in. The gentleman looked up and said, "Is this the way to come into the Platoon Commander's office? Go out and ask for permission to come in." I did.

The immediate question was, "ARE YOU GETTING COMMISSION?" (I remember every word spoken in that meeting). I said, "I don't know, sir. You said you would let me know." All hell broke loose. "You are one of the most indifferent men I have ever come across. Your life, career, everything you aspired for is at stake, and you didn't even bother to check back. You don't know how I convinced the Duty Officer to shelve the report of your offence. You also don't understand how we identify ourselves with our students, how we work, wish, and long for your success.

This was all done with the purpose of teaching you that the VIOLATION OF DISCIPLINE CAN GET YOU KILLED.

Hope you didn't inform your family.
Today is off for you.
Prepare to receive your family and participate in the Passing Out Parade tomorrow. GOOD LUCK."

I graduated, went my way, and he went his. We both did the very best we could in the best profession there is—the profession of arms.

I cannot say whether I truly learned the lesson, but what I have learned, seen, done, or been doing for the last five decades is that his love and kindness stand out as a prime factor. Truly, he was a rainbow in my cloud.

I have been writing and talking for a long time and have received sweet, sour, rave, embarrassing, and reinvigorating reviews. My Platoon Commander's (I never knew that he still was following and looking after me) following lines elevate me and my views to the celestial sphere:

"I am a keen follower of your posts. I am proud of your achievements as an intellectual. May you progress in your intellectual pursuits. When you visit Lahore, give me a chance to meet you. Thanks."

Profound gratitude and best wishes for perpetual Divine Grace for my Rainbow ...

To be truly ALIVE is to live with a purpose greater than oneself. It is to embrace TRUTH even when it is inconvenient, to act with INTEGRITY even when it is challenging, and to show HUMILITY even when it is tempting to boast. Such individuals leave behind a Legacy of Goodness, inspiring those who come after them. Their lives are testimonies to the power of living authentically and selflessly. 

There have been/are/shall be millions who lived/live/shall ... conscientiously. Conscientious living is about being aware of the impact of our actions on others and the world around us. It means making choices that are Ethical and Just, considering not only our own needs but also the needs of others. It involves a commitment to Fairness, Justice, Empathy, and Respect. Conscientious individuals are aware of the interconnectedness of all life and strive to contribute positively to the collective well-being.

Conscientious living entails Honesty and Humility. These traits are the twin pillars of a life well-lived. Honesty ensures that our actions are transparent and trustworthy, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Humility keeps us grounded, reminding us that we are part of a LARGER WHOLE and that our successes are often the result of COLLECTIVE EFFORT and DIVINE GRACE. Together, these qualities enable us to navigate life with Grace and Dignity, earning the respect and admiration of others.

Those on the other side of the fence; their legacy  ???  History is replete with answers ... Their lives are nothing but the  Illusion of Life in Deceit and Greed ... and ... those who live by deceit and greed may appear to be alive, but they are merely existing. Their lives are characterized by a relentless pursuit of personal gain at the expense of others. They manipulate, exploit, and betray, leaving a trail of Harm, Distrust and Destruction. Such lives are marked by an inner emptiness, a void that no amount of material wealth or power can fill. These individuals are, as Khalil Gibran noted, DEAD IN SPIRIT LONG BEFORE THEIR PHYSICAL BODIES CEASE TO FUNCTION.

The Call ... The Choice ... Every day, we are presented with choices that determine whether we are truly ALIVE or merely existing. Choosing life means embracing values that uplift and sustain, seeking to make a positive difference in the world. It means striving to be honest, humble, and conscientious in all our dealings. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a Legacy of Goodness that transcends our Physical Existence.

It must be understood that the measure of our lives is not in the Wealth we Accumulate or the Power we Wield, but in the Integrity of our Actions and the Love we Share. So to be truly ALIVE is to Live with Purpose, to Act with Integrity, and to Leave a Legacy of Goodness. Let us strive to be among those who are truly ALIVE, whose spirits shine brightly even after their biological life has ended. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that our true legacy lies in the Fairness, Truth, Respect, Honesty, Humility, and Conscientiousness with which we live.

Akhtar N Janjua