For Pak Fauj and FC kay Jawan - Bushra Hassan

KHARAN: Pak Army Soldier Stands alert during operation against militants. PHOTO by Sultan Dogar

As I look around me, I’m surprised to see that very few of us realize the gravity of the situation we’re in. We are a country at war. Not with Talibans, not with Islamic fundamentalists, but in fact with foreign funded militants who under the guise of Islam have been creating havoc, and destabilizing an already fragile country. In a time of war, when millions are homeless, countless dead, we all have succumbed to - what the media has only further reiterated – irresponsible banter and opinion making. We raise questions undermining the integrity of others; we belittle our official strategies and view points. But what is disappointing in all these questions is that none of these are aimed at our selves. What have we personally been doing about our understanding of the Taliban? What are we doing to support the Army operation?

I’m not a fan of the Pakistan Army. Correction: I’m not a fan of the Pakistan’s Generals. Most, if not all of them. The arrogance, attitude and the absence of accountability within the armed forces. However, does this make me question this institution in a time of war? Never! I have two choices. One to sit back and criticize; and secondly, to take proactive measures that will instill a sense of nationhood not just for those around me, but even within myself. I need to feel connected to something positive, to something larger than me.

"I have two choices. One to sit back and criticize; and secondly, to take proactive measures that will instill a sense of nationhood not just for those around me, but even within myself. I need to feel connected to something positive, to something larger than me."

I have realized since the Operations began that it is okay, if our political leadership sucks, because our Armed Forces are not failing us. They have reminded me that I am one of 16 million. My one action will be added with 16 million other singular actions. Big, small, financial, or moral. I am a part of a wave that will raise this nation higher than ever before. I will stand behind the fauji jawan, the young man who is fighting the militants at the moment. Fighting them for us. Doing what we have been wanting him to do for ages. He is fighting my war for me, and I will stand behind him. I pray for him, I support him and I appreciate him. This is the least I can do. The least I can do is not criticize. The least I can do is say a prayer. The least I can do is become worthy of him fighting with his life to protect me.

This is my vow to our jawans: I will become worthy of this country. I will become worthy of this fight. I will become worthy of your sacrifice.

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Bushra Hassan is an Oxford University Graduate and more importantly, A PATRIOT!