From Olympics to a rickshaw

KARACHI: It was heartbreaking to read a report in your newspaper about the plight of former Olympian and cyclist Mohammad Ashiq, who was once a pride for the country, and is now reduced to earning a livelihood driving a rickshaw. His current living status should be a source of shame for every corrupt politician, lazy official and indifferent representative. But at this point, playing the blame game is not going to ease the man’s sorrow.

If we can’t value those who work hard to earn a name for our country, whose sweat and blood raises Pakistan’s name in the eyes of the rest of the world, then we need to look inwards and consider what we have become as a society. Already the word ‘Pakistan’ brings to mind all kinds of horrible images for those who live abroad. Is it not then good if we at least recognise our heroes and give them the credit and applause that they richly deserve?

At the very least, and at an individual level, I would like to do something to help Mohammad Ashiq. But I am not sure how to go about doing that. Perhaps, readers can help?

Anum Shaharyar

University of Karachi

Published in The Express Tribune, February 22^nd, 2012.