KARACHI:
In the bustling streets of England, a culture of courtesy and gratitude has been thriving. As a newcomer from Pakistan, I have been pleasantly surprised by the warmth and politeness of the people I encounter daily. I have spent the past seven months and witnessed a profound display of courtesy that has left an enduring impression. From the polite exchanges of ‘sorry’, ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ to the ever-present smiles on their faces, courtesy permeates every aspect of daily life here.
However, it seems that this culture of courtesy is slowly fading in my homeland, Pakistan. It is time to revisit our roots and rekindle the spirit of courtesy that once defined our culture. Courtesy is not just a matter of etiquette; it is a fundamental aspect of human interaction; it is the glue that binds us together, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. When we say ‘sorry’ or ‘thank you’, we acknowledge the efforts and contributions of others, and in doing so, we create an atmosphere of gratitude and appreciation. A simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way in making someone feel valued and appreciated. This, in turn, encourages people to be more helpful and cooperative, leading to a more harmonious society.
But unfortunately, the culture of courtesy and hospitality that once defined Pakistan traditions is now on the decline. As a society, we have become more aggressive and less courteous. This has led to a breakdown in social cohesion and a general sense of discontent. To revive the spirit of courtesy in Pakistan, we must first acknowledge its importance and the role it plays in fostering a harmonious society. Let us embrace the wisdom of our ancestors and rekindle the flame of hospitality and kindness that has been a symbol of our culture for centuries. We must also make a conscious effort to be more courteous in our daily interactions. This means saying ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ more often, and being more mindful of the feelings and needs of others.
The culture of courtesy that I have observed in England has been a source of inspiration for me. It has reminded me of the importance of small acts of kindness, and the role they play in creating a harmonious society. As a Pakistani, I believe that we must revisit our roots and rekindle the spirit of courtesy that once defined our culture. By doing so, we can create a more compassionate and caring society, one that is built on the foundation of mutual respect and understanding.
Ravendar Kumar Rohra
Colchester, England
Published in The Express Tribune, May 16th, 2024.
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