Navigating Through Turbulent Times: Lessons from an Aviator

The other day, after the game we gathered for our usual cup of tea.. Our conversation generally remains light-hearted, focussed on the friendly but serious competition we have amongst us … As we were analysing our game of the day  an elderly gentleman happened to walk by. We greeted him and invited him to join us for a cup of tea. He graciously accepted our invitation. As he sat, he asked whats going on? We said we just had our round … No I mean what is happening in the Land, he said. We asked him his perspective ...

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