Despite so many technological advances, we can hardly understand nature’s fierce calamities that strike us almost too often. Look at how abnormally continuous rain in Pakistan has played havoc with the lives of millions of its citizens. There are sufficient “causes” for such eccentricities of nature these days. Of course, climate change due to our wrong pursuits is also to blame. It has been reported that more than 33 million people have been affected by the monstrous monsoon. The flash floods have mercilessly washed away bridges, roads, houses, livestock and people across the country. More than 1100 people have been killed so far. Just imagine their plight and how each individual is struggling to survive in these difficult hours. Practically speaking, with almost nothing to eat and nothing to drink, innumerable stranded citizens are also gasping for breath, as reported. Their lives are floating on the bubble of uncertainty. I believe each one of us should learn a lesson or two from here. We should take a cue from it and conduct ourselves in this mundane world more thoughtfully. Yes, especially those extremist terror groups who have been hurting humanity from the soil of Pakistan should now introspect about the purpose of life. Hope this catastrophic devastation will make them a little wiser to understand the inevitable reality that human life on this planet is unquestionably “impermanent and unpredictable”. Should they not repent now and lay down their arms and start serving humanity? Terror is never a way to God.
Incidentally, what has happened in our neighboring country might also happen to us. Any time our wealth, our swanky cars, our luxurious gadgets and accessories can be devastated. A similar situation was experienced by millions of people in Assam (India) a month ago. Well, our Prime Minister has conveyed his good thoughts and prayers in these difficult times for Pakistan. Yes, all should stand with the aggrieved people affected by the devastating catastrophes.
Of course, our prayers may be different in words, but the CREATOR is the same. The style of worshipping Him may be different, but the devotion is the same. So, let’s keep the Pakistani people in our thoughts and prayers now. Let’s keep aside the narrow dogmas of our religions and think for humanity. While religions may divide us, humanity will unite us, making us more humane. The compassion shown to our fellow brothers alone pleases God, not terror. Lashkar-e-Toiba, Al-Qaeda and others must take this TRUTH to heart. The world population will be able to live more peacefully.
A Shillong-based writer and researcher, Salil Gewali is best known for his research-based work entitled ‘Great Minds on India’ that has earned worldwide appreciation. Translated into thirteen languages, his book has been edited by a former NASA scientist – Dr. AV Murali of Houston, USA.
Views: 0
