This year we should think hard how to make Pakistan a prosperous, progressive
ISLAMABAD: In 45 BC, it was the first time in history that New Year’s Day was celebrated and the day was dedicated to Janus, the god of gateways and beginnings. The first month of the year is also dedicated to him, hence being named January. A year consists of 365 days and the New Year marks the day the earth has completed one whole cycle around the sun. Most countries across the world follow the Gregorian calendar as it has become the universal form of keeping track of time. Some other countries follow their own calendars. They have different ways of celebrating at different times around the year. In Pakistan, many people celebrate the New Year by arranging enormous parties and fireworks. They party all night and have an amazing time. On the other hand, many people celebrate the New Year with fasting and prayers. The New Year signifies the start of a new leap with wishes and pledges. So, celebrate this occasion warm heartedly and learn to love each other. This new year we all should unite towards a singular goal — for peace and prosperity in Pakistan. This should be the first and most important resolution for everyone.
This year we should think hard how to make Pakistan a prosperous, progressive, well educated nation where the rule of law prevails, where people are well behaved and police personnel do not need to carry firearms, where merit is given importance and nepotism and favouritism have no place, where there is no gap between what one preaches and what one does, where elders are respected. We should all pray to make our country where knowledge is free and where there is freedom and people walk with their heads held high.
Maria Khattak
Published in The Express Tribune, January 1st, 2020.
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