An Error occured while processing your request. Please try again! 
'Ask them not to forget us, but pray for us'9th August, 2010 09:33 AM |
| Tweet |
As my journey out of Nowshera began on saturday, i felt that my duty towards these people had just begun. I am now reminiscing of my time and asking myself if I have given anything to these unfortunate souls. Has my presence benefited them in anyway? But the more I think, the more I realize, that I'm the one who has benefited. I'm the one who is taking something away. They have taught my value. Value of the basic amenities we all take for granted. Value of shelter, water, clean clothes, and of family. The irony of this situation tears me apart. I was here one year ago, watching the same people open their arms of generosity to the people of SWAT. Sharing their homes, their food and their water. Once they were the hosts, now the victims. A nation physically poor but rich in love. I have been taught the value patience in its true meaning. I have learned to appreciate my health care system, my access to an ambulance at the click of finger, to electricity at the flick of a switch, to heating at the turn of a knob.
Water, we forget how powerful it is. Our body can't live with out it. But when given more than needed, it becomes our enemy. It has wiped out nations before, and will do so again. We have witnessed the UK face torrential rain and floods in recent years. Even an established society struggled. If we put this into perspective, how will the people of Nowshera stand again? As i left, a humble victim said 'Ask them not to forget us, but to pray for us'. We can do more.
I feel humbled to have been given this opportunity, to feel the pain and suffering of these people. My return will aim to deliver this message, but I will never be able to fully express the reality of this situation. So I ask of you all to read this, not through your eyes, but your hearts. I want you to absorb the pain I am feeling just now and act upon it. Please go online and donate. Islamic Relief and the DEC are waiting for you.
You can make a difference.
Post Comments
 |
Tags: Pakistan , Floods , disaster |
9th August, 2010 02:54 PM
Brother Habib you are an inspiration to us all. You alone have done so much that a famous politician couldn't achieve in a lifetime. By bringing your videos on you-tube and keeping us updated and being our eyes and ears on the ground you achieved the kindness and genorosity of the British public. In fact many people abroad who see your interviews on TV and radio will most likely be moved and will donate from the bottom of their hearts.
We are all proud to have a muslim brother like you who helps all regardless of race, religion and culture.