World Of Wars
71
Somewhere, in a godforsaken part of the world, a war is started. Politicians with smooth words and loud declarations, justify it. Somewhere, there are those who sit and debate it…those that condemn it….and those that support it. Words are exchanged….some heated, some dead cold: on line, off line, in drawing rooms, in offices, over drinks. Somewhere, yes….war is a headline in a newspaper….a bulletin on t.v. in the 9 o’clock news…an ‘awareness’ in the lives of civilized people leading safe civilized lives.
But how does it feel to actually walk the streets in the middle of a war zone….to sense fear beating like a second heart within you …to hear the sound of human misery reverberate in your ears…to dip your clean hands in the blood of war and feel it’s heat singe your skin?
Something within me cried......no, screamed for an answer. And so a month ago, I took this long journey into the heart of Pakistan - a country whose borders are burning with the fire of war’s hell. Suicide bombings, Taliban threat, massive refugee crisis, a sinking economy... the shadows blighting it’s future loom larger and more ominous everyday. Yet, even though it was one of the hardest experiences of my life, I found here something more meaningful and deeper than all my travels through the world.
The truth. And that is, that in between the pointing finger of blame…and the barrel of a gun, an ordinary human life stands at mercy: the common man’s - one that wants nothing to do with these wars….and even less with words and our heated discussions on it!
There is, of course, nothing ‘normal’ about people surviving in a war zone. That’s a word for lives that can be called human....where emotions have space for expression, where dreams exist...and hopes breathe. But in a country wrecked with war, it’s a purgatorial state of existence...almost as if the pain of death itself seems to have faded...and a grey numbness ensued. Devoid...that is what their lives are. Of all that moves...and aspires...and becomes. A gaping hole... left when all else recedes.
But only apparently. Scratching the surface, you find hope like a hidden jewel still lying underneath… a low muffled flame slowly yet persistently glowing… despite being bruised, torn and broken again. Life clawing at life itself. Desperately trying to survive.
And so walking along the streets of Pakistan, I sensed the mighty warm heart of a country that never sits still….and that stubbornly carries on through it all. Where were the bearded Taliban, the strange evasive enemy that the world fears? And the white-skin hating ‘maniacs’ that the average westerner had been warned against? Where were these superhuman barbarians that the whole world was sitting in terror of…who plot daily to kill and attack their nations…a threat to their very future?
The ordinary, very mundane stared back at me instead. Almost anti-climatic, after all the anticipation of threat. Simple…regular people: children running and playing in the streets, dancing to indian tunes….women buying vegetables at roadside stalls …men who’s only purpose was to earn their daily bread…and dream simple happy dreams.
Half of them had no thought beyond making it through yet another day on their meagre wages, let alone device plans to bomb nations! And one emotion was common to all: they just wanted to be left alone! Their lips were shouting the silent protest…their eyes begging all: the Taliban...Pakistani military itself... Nato forces..suicide bomers...even we who criticize and blame..to leave them some breathing space to live!
Grace under pressure is what Hemingway called it. And I saw it everywhere in those people. A strange sense of humility…that comes when basic human survival is all one can hope for…. where people were thankful for lulls between one bomb blast and another…and instead of losing hope, clung ever so ferociously to it…! How did they do this…continue in this obstinate way when all else was crumbling around them?
Yes, I learnt things here that all the books and wisdom in the world cannot teach one. Fear fell away in the face of that fearless way they carried on. I felt myself humbled by their gentle strength…amazed at their sense of contentment at small mercies of life. People who were happy for just one moment of peace, who smiled even though there was no reason to.
It must be true greatness that I saw there....lying unremarked, unknown... in such simple lives in a small part of the world. I know now no war can destroy it..... nor enslave it's spirit....and in it's presence, I inevitably lowered my eyes in wordless tears.
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War Facts:
- BBC News - Afghan civilian deaths rose 14% in 2009, says UN report
Civilian casualties in Afghanistan rose by 14% in 2009 compared with 2008, the UN reports. - Pakistan: Avoid Civilian Casualties | Human Rights Watch
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CommentsLoading...
You are beautiful. Such passion and care. This was wonderful. It is eye opening, to see how fiercly people will fight to sruvive. Makes you feel stupid for complaining about how quickly the bread became mouldy...
Art..i know...amazing the kind of things people here complain about, and yet, ironically enough I find more unhappiness here than in all the poverty/war ridden regions of the world! Anyway, thank you for always encouraging me...you are and will always remain my mentor here! A very special hug for you xx
Justine...my true friend. I so imagine us meeting up for coffee and sharing little details of our lives. I think we both have a sensitive side that we share through these words....and we can somehow sense each other through them! much love xx
I commend you on your bravery woman as well as your ability to write. You took me on a journey in such short time and I cried with you, but you neglected to even portray how hard it really was for you personally to tour the land of the oppressed. It took love and courage on your part mingled with your deep compassion and it shows. The video was only an exclamation point to what you have so eloquently brought to us. Thanks so much for this MOW. Fascism lives under the facade of fear mongering.
Ral...your comments always go straight to my heart, overwhelming me. Thank you - deeply felt - is all I can say. As for my own personal struggles, they fell away infront of ones so much greater than mine...and I forgot what it was to ever be unhappy. Human suffering...ah, atleast, there is some purpose to it! Thank you for being you...xx
Hey hun, I love this hub, ignore what Craig said, how patronising of him! tut tut. Did you take any of the photos yourself? I like that arty type one with the red paint, if that was over here it would be in an art gallery as installation art!
It's ok Richieb...I actually get that alot (even in real life!)... people not taking you seriously enough because of the way you look. I sent him a private email (didn't want war to start here under my hub!) telling him how the very point of my hub was lost on him: which was not to have a political debate or blame anyone, but just to focus on the plight of the man caught in between!
Anyway, thank you for your kind words....no I didn't take that pic (cool, isn't it though?) but have taken hundreds others that I'll be publishing soon! cheers! x
Terrific hub, I hope it gets read by some of the decision makers before they start bombing the hell out of someplace else!!!!
Nothing good comes out of war. The most intelligent and compassionate people understand enough to know this and so do not do anything to make reasons for them. My heart goes out to those who've lost their lives and to those who soon will-whether foreign or domestic.
Thank you so much for writing this, MOW. Your compassion is always evident in your writing.
Dohn
Thank you Paradise for reading and appreciating! I'm afraid there will always be someone in power to justify war, and I do not foresee an end to this cruelty. Anyway, wishing you a happy new year and much love x
:) you're such a special human being Dohn! Thank you for your kind comment!
a wonderful piece. the human spirit will always carry on,will always survive. sometimes it seems the more one suffers the more they learn to live.the weak become strong. we all pray for peace and for the suffering of all humanity to cease. i have never understood how one man can kill another.peace to you
MYO as I sit in my computer chair in relative comfort. It is indeed hard for me to Imagine the horror of just surviving another day as success. Again you have written another piece that has had my attention completely.If there is one thing that I love and need to always hear about , it is the resilience of the Human spirit.
I may be an American and I like to think I am a patriotic one, the first thing I am is a Human being and like any Human being I feel compassion for those who suffer be it Haiti , Pakistan , Africa or wherever on the globe that suffering is. I hate war and I hate suffering . I just pray for a day when Ideoiligies go away and this planet can be a community. I know it is probably not possible . But I cannot help but believe that without Governments we would probably all be friends. Thanks for getting my attention again. And I am glad you are OK. Hugs to you my friend
yes, Christine....the human spirit is more resilient than we imagine. Otherwise, all the 'good' in the world would never have survived! Thank you for reading and understanding..
Tony, you put such a happy smile on my face! You are without doubt one of the most amazing people I know here. Yes, it's human suffering in any form that I cannot ignore...and just like you, I too hope that it all ends one day. Such dreamers, aren't we? I am ok...so thank you for caring! And lol...stay warm and happy in that computer chair of yours...! x
As always a very good hub. I never experienced any of the things that you did when I was in Pakistan but it is true that the people seem to be happy however badly off they are. I think it is because they do not have abnormal expectations like we do here in the West. Westerners always seem to want much more than they need for a happy life.
In Pakistan they thank God for life and treasure what is really important in life.
Many people fear Pakistan and its people as something alien but they are the most friendly and welcoming people.
Keep on writing especially about Pakistan, it has a special place in my heart.
Thank you Hummingbird for the wonderful comment! This time when I went things were much worse than before, and it tore at my heart. I have a lot of pics that I took around Lahore that I'll be publishing soon. I know you understand more, having visited the country yourself, so your appreciation means the world to me! x
I appreciate so much your continued efforts to speak so truly but so eloquently. Thank you so much
This was an amazing hub and straight to the heart of us all. To imagine such sorrow and horror is heart-breaking to say the least. Our limited reasoning takes us to places that we could do without, like war but until we finally mature I am afraid we are still going to have them. The thing we must not do is desensitize the outcome of war so that we thing twice before entering one, maybe this way we will thing twice about it. I pray one day we may finally grow up and realize the error of our ways. To this point you have presented your story brilliantly. Bless your heart for being you.
I appreciated your hub, the video and the comments also. Sometimes war seems to be necessary, but perhaps if the big instigators had to fight it, things would be different. May we always seek Peace!
Micky, thanks yet again for taking the time to read and comment! Sending much love your way...
ehern, I really respect you as a hubber and so your words are truly appreciated! Thank you for the wonderful comment!
Frogyfish, thank you for stopping by! I look forward to reading your work soon! take care...
Great writing. I enjoyed every bit of it. I joined hub pages recently and am inviting you to read my hubs.
A great, emotional read. It's amazing the lives we I guess are lucky to live while others are surrounded by so much hurt and pain.
I feel humbled, I still take so many things for granted.
Love the way you put things into perspective.
what a caring woman MOW and this is very emotional piece as usual, your words and compassion speaks a volume, forever fan of yours, thank you, Maita
A truly beautiful and moving piece. Your words really convey the intensity of your emotions as well as the pain. Coming from the same region myself I can relate to everything you say. The “common man” there is just paying for the sins of the shameless and corrupt rulers. Life seems to be the name of stumbling from one tragedy to another, something you can understand only if you live there. It brings to my mind the quote by Honore de Balzac printed at the start of “A Fine Balance” (by Rohinton Mistry) which I reproduce below:
“ Holding this book in your hand, sinking back in your soft armchair, you will say to yourself: perhaps it will amuse me. And after you have read this story of great misfortunes, you will no doubt dine well, blaming the author for your insensitivity, accusing him of wild exaggeration and flights of fancy. But rest assured: this tragedy is not a fiction. All this is true.”
Great work. Please keep writing. It reminds us how blessed we are and how much we need to do to make this world a better place.
Hussains thank you for reading and appreciating! Will definitely be reading your hubs soon!
SaToya...what a lovely comment as always! You're such a hardworking hubber yourself and yet you never fail to find time to read other's too...! Love you for that! x
Pretty Maita...my dear friend...I'm a fan of yours forever too! just a warm hug to you for your kindness and love! x
Onequietnight....your words brought tears to my eyes...I'm honored and speechless....
It's so sad that wars have ripped some parts of the world, to make them ironic that most of the victims are people who have no interests with the wars. I share opinion with people all over the world who fight for putting an end to wars.
Agusfanani, I couldn't agree more! cheers for stopping by!
There is more unhappiness in the developed world that any other part of it, you are right, people just don't appreciate the good things they have. There are no real winners in any war. All war sucks. Wars are about power and control of others. We reap what we sow. This is a great Hub, and you write so movingly too, MOW. Cheers for this!
thank you Cheeky...you're one of my favorite people on here! much love x
More ordinary people aught to go and experience life in another country especially americans. Maybe then some would develop a sense of empathy and maybe even try to make a difference even if it starts with making a change in themselves. So many don't appreciate what they have and continuously covet others possessions and places in society and life. I only wish people were more thankful for what they have instead of what they don't.
I always keep your stories until I have proper time to read and take in all the messages. Thanks for sharing this......Tammy
I agree Tammy. One of the BEST gifts my parents gave me was the love of traveling from a very young age. One learns so much about life... and the contrast in the way human beings survive in different parts of the world. Opens your eyes to the real meaning of life in a way... Anyway, thank you for that great comment! Truly appreciated! :)
i am new here and read your hub. i do agree that any war is horrific and always will have such great losses.
i do however disagree with the idea that war does not have any benefits. the freedom we won by fighting the british. the freedom won for the slaves in our civil war, and the freedom Britain and most of Europe won by defeating the Germans in both world wars. it will always be in human nature to want what is not possessed. world domination will always be the aspirations of a few who believe they are right and all others are wrong. i do not believe that any war is worth starting, but i would fight any aggressor who kills for pleasure to the death. there are those who would kill you and me for not believing in their religion, political stand or their right to own another. if left alone, their strength will grow and in the not too distant future will be at our doorstep. would anyone here die rather than kill? would anyone here watch their loved ones die without raising a hand to stop it?
Thank you conservativeboy for reading and commenting. I'm against war not for the reasons BEHIND it (and do agree that men/countries will always have them for starting wars) but the damage it wrecks, it's IMPACT that is. And it's not so much the attitude - 'we had to fight war in self defense' - that I'm writing against, but the way people so easily accept civilian deaths as a 'necessary' outcome of war.
My whole point in writing this hub was actually to avoid these very debates that I feel take away from the real issue: which is the common civilian lives lost in the middle. What does it matter what you and I believe in? we're powerless to stop children/women/men dying and the refugees displaced in the name of wars...and that is my greatest concern.
This hub isn't a political statement - it's just an expression of grief for the ordinary man on the street caught in wars, and an admiration for his humility. Let's not lose sight of that is all I'm asking.
And theoretically speaking, if someone kills your loved one, say your son, yes, you would want to avenge the killer...but to go and kill the murderer's entire family, clan, even the city he belongs to is taking that hatred to a level that will never bring back any ultimate good...only more pain and destruction. Political diplomacy, making our own borders stronger is self defense - not bombing entire countries!
Please take care....and though I'd rather not get into arguments that lead no where, really, you can contact me through my email. Regards -
Hy MOW, just thought you'd like to know I recommended this hub as a "Hubber's Hub" recommended read. You are such a good hubber - you deserve this, my friend! Best wishes to you! Keep writing and keeping it real. X
oh...cheeky! that's so wonderful of you!!! I'm at a loss for words............... a warm hug for you...thank you so very much! xx
What a powerful and beautiful Hub. You have put the situation so clearly. War is evil, no doubt about it. It is wasteful and destructive and almost never accomplishes what its proponents say are its objectives. Especially the recent wars. they have brought untold suffering to innocent people without achieving much that is positive.
Love and peace
Tony
thank you for your insightful comment tonymac....your appreciation means so much to me too! :)
Thank you for this article. I agree entirely. If war MUST be waged,(which it shouldn't, but that is an enormous issue)) then at least civilian deaths MUST be avoided at AT ALL COST. How can this not be possible in the 21st Century? So advanced in some things yet not in something so basic, as the preservance of innocent human life. It is incredible that real figures are not even available, or no one will admit to them, concerning civilian deaths in the recent war.
Myownworld, you have underlined a fundamental issue in war, an issue that must be addressed and accounted for. In legal terms I would like to know who is accountable for these deaths.
Marieryan I completely agree with you. What actually bothers me the most is that half the civilians deaths are not being reported in the international media, and it's even harder finding exact figures/facts on the lives lost, or the refugees displaced in this war! I feel so helpless really...
Anyway, thank you for reading and that great comment! cheers..!
All I come to expect and so much more. Even as a child, I've always felt that war was not the answer to differences. Personally, feel that all those that want to fight endless wars and destroy others should be placed on a remote island and "allowed to have at and may the best man or woman win":)
Unfortunately as long as there is "egotism, narcissism, and wrongdoers" there will be wars, and more wars; which is sooo sad and unnecessary! Thanks for sharing MOW and please be safe.:)
Well darling woman, you know I have my own little war, and I won another battle. I must thank you for your love and prayers and the sentiments you posted on the thread about me. Thanks hun, love CC
Such true words Money! Yes, I like the idea of that island too....! thank you my friend for your insight and understanding always! x
Ral, darling...you've won our hearts above all....and there is nothing greater than that! I wanted...I so longed to bring flowers for you...do something...convey to you somehow that you are loved by us all. That thread was alas, all we had! take care always...you're too precious to lose! xx
I read your picture painted from your pallet of vivid words that colors the canvas with the gray story of life as it is yet let to be less than inclusive civil selflessness...
As humanity meanders through time and space it may stumble on its responsibility... I have yet to see it has the slightest inclination to do such... I still hope that as writers like yourself and others paint the ill conceived plans and actions that touch the hearts of others; they might see in your vivid painting the reality they let to be and commence the process to close down this display of inhuman exclusive, evil selfishness...
Then you may show your talented brush on a brighter canvas...
Thanks for sharing...
What a wonderful comment Ioua! I was just smiling reading it...thinking how some people have such a gift for writing! Thank you....I am deeply moved by your kind words...
...Such a heartfelt hub. You seem like a very empathic, compassionate person; I bet you've cried a lot in your lifetime. Anyway, you are obviously the opposite of apathy.
Keep up the good, honest work that you do...
As usual...you bring to life so many details in your writings... What is like to visit a battlefield...and what if that battlefield is normal every day folks...just trying to live for another day? You witnessed first hand-what few actually get to see-the real face of war-the innocent ones! War is Hell...there is no getting around that fact! People suffer tremendously in war...People die in war...whole peoples histories are changed by it and families are never the same after it. This is the face of War...Some folks never have to experience it...many only have to hear about it on the news...and others...go into the very heart of War!
Thank you for bringing us all...as close as we would ever want to be...to the atrocities of a War, MOW!
Obscurely Diverse (I do love that name!)......something you said there, about how I must have cried alot in my life....just that one line alone went straight to my heart. Thank you for your beautiful words...
yes, Manly, it was heart breaking being there...watching simple people struggle on....and I think I left a part of myself behind. One learns so much really seeing these things first hand, and not just reading about them in news. You understood and felt with me, and for that I'm so grateful to you. Thank you my dear friend! always x
Excellent and touching Hub, well done! Let us pray for peace.
Thank you Tatjana for your appreciation. Yes, love and peace! x
I admire your strength and courage… to feel and to listen, to your hearts screams; to act and to seek out your hearts yearning. To trust and to follow your heart’s cry with such bravery and conviction; to go where no one else would dare to go; to submerge yourself, to a calling of vast devastation and unspeakable horrors. To walk amongst the wounded hearts, to reach out with understanding and love; to provide comfort when all sense of hope has reached insurmountable levels; To find a sense of humility so rare, yet common and admirable in the spirits of so many.
To be able to captivate meaningful insight told with such raw poignancy and deliver this message from your heart.
To remind us all what the ugly side of war will do to our souls.
Thanks for listening to your heart,
Sage
"Scratching the surface, you find hope like a hidden jewel" You are the jewel MOW and a warm, compassionate one. The answer to war lies in the gracious alternatives to rage and anger responses that we courageously choose every day. I could see you walking among the men with their weapons, smiling at them, leaving flowers in the muzzles. Make love not war. =:)
Sage Williams (the name goes well with you)..your words brought such happy tears to my eyes....that I can only sit here and smile and tear up and smile again. You don't know how much your comment meant.... and how deeply moved I am. Really... thank you....
Winsome, in such a short time, I feel I can connect with you! Yes, loud words, debates and finger pointing is what I want to run away from...'gracious alternatives' and compassion is what I'm drawn to. Thank you for your kind words...
MOW, damn you're good!!!
lol...tobey, that makes me smile big time!!! :) cheers for stopping by!
you have written this hub so beautifully.People fight in the name of religion,they have forgotten that humanity is above all the religions and no religion justify this act of brutality and the loss of precious human lives.thanks for sharing this thought provoking hub.Lets we all pray for peace.
best regards,naida
thank you Nadia for your great comment. If you're from Pakistan, you can understand this more clearly than I could ever convey! Yes, I taught English at Kinnaird for a while during my Masters there. But that life is so far away now....pleasure to meet you here! will be reading your stuff soon! Take care..
I wasn't sure which hub to comment on so i just stopped by to rate this one up! :)
cheers mate! you're such a sweetheart! x
So nice to see you here,i graduated in 1999 from kinnaird,and if i'm not wrong you were one of the counsel members,president of english club in 1995 and that was my first year in college:)it feels good to see some one from college doing good,and your writings have power and a very strong impact!
best regards,nadia
:) small world! I was the editor of the college magazine ('batch of '96), yes....but thank you Nadia for your words..you're very kind. Will definitely find time soon to read your work...!
Beautiful, poignant hub, as always, MOW. We've been killing our brothers and sisters for thousands of years, with no end in sight. I agree with Thomas Hardy's take on war: the ultimate example of man's inhumanity to man.
myownworld - again I find myself reading your words. You are quite an amazing person with such a gift. You may go by the name MOW- but you take us here to places that I dont think most of us would or could ever imagine. Once again I thank you for sharing this, you have a new follower in me.
love and light to you,
Shari
Thank you habee for your encouragement always and the great quote! Trust Hardy..! Take good care and remember to take a break...how about a spa? ;) x
Wavegirl, thank you for your kind words! Forums are just an 'escape' for me....for fun and laughter....and 'MOW' is only a very small part of who I really am. It's my writing...and the things I talk about here that are the reality. That is why it makes me truly happy when someone understands and feels with me here! thank you for reading and being a fan!
I echo Tobey100's comment.
MOW, I read your work and I feel so many emotions. Mostly, by the time I am finished, I wonder why I complained this morning that someone dinged my car! How completley meaningless when you read how others are so greateful simply to be alive.
You write with such passion and clarity.
Here's to Hope! For each of the everyday people stuck in the middle.
Here's to Hope! That we might learn how to avoid it.
Ah...Duchess.....my favorite writer here! I've been so busy with traveling and 'life' that I haven't had a chance to read much lately. Should be dropping by soon...! Thank you for that wonderful comment...yes, hope for those caught in the middle! And trust me, it's a blessing to complain of the little things in life....may we never have bigger reasons to! :) All my love x
I dont know what to say. You speak up what I really feel bout war. Great hub. Hope this can be read by a lot of people and can make our world better place.
You have a gift with expressing yourself with words. Your compassion and heart come through loud and clear in your pieces. Thanks!
Thank you wahyuJK for feeling with me...and understanding so well! Take care...
MordechaiZoltan thank you for your nice comment! Truly appreciated!
Yes I wud be up for an interview, just mail me with any questions you want, wud be an honour. Btw have ya checked the Forums, Paul Deeds has lifted my Forum Ban ; )x
Art it's so silly, but I have tears in my eyes now!!! They were soooo hard on you, but u proved to them what a great hubber you are!!! Soooo proud of you....and just so happy that you're back. Will send u my questions by next week!! Am just sitting here smiling like a fool! xx
Cheers MOW, you always believed in me and stuck by me through it all and I won't ever forget that, tis why we will make yer interview hub a really funny double act, I am lookin forward to it, loves ya to bits xx
bless you Art! that's all I can say....! I will always be your loyal fan and admirer! xx
Yes, I do agree that war is terrorism and the super-power warmongers should be liquidated on war footing...
Thank you Mistry for reading. take care :)
As usual, touching, well written, and unfortunately the horror of truth.
thank you gramarye for reading and appreciating. Much love..
War, hatred and revenge are ghastly manifestations of the satanic elements in the human psyche - the diabolically devastating part. Tolerence, kindness, compassion and belongingness are the devine elements in us - the soothing and sustaining ones.
Thank you mdlawyer for stopping by! I like the words, 'soothing and sustaining'...yes, these qualities survive in human nature through the worst, and with them hope.. :)
not cool girl - you made me cry - stop writing so beautifully, damn I am serious, fantastic and I thank you for sharing this with us. kimberly
You're a dear wonderful person Lyr....I had tears in my eyes just seeing your comment! thank you friend...I do love you! xx
You are a very good writer, my compliments.
I believe you have seen the true face of politics. Wars are never truly about faith or God or people, nor are they usually about Ideals or freedom from oppression. They are usually about Money, Power, and Control. Religion has been a tool used by the men seeking that Money, Power and Control since the begining of time.
The Revolution of the United States was about money (Taxation without representation) the Founding Fathers simply used the call for freedom to rally those that would have to fight. Saying God is on our side makes a war a cause worth dying for...Politicians have known this and used this for ever.
Thank you Mikel for your great comment...and I so agree with you. It's all about control, and politics...while the ordinary man pays the heavy price for it! Cheers for dropping by! :)
Thanks for the first hand opinion on this important issues. Good choice of pictures too.
Thank you C_pinto for reading....and becoming a fan! :)
Very well written article - I share your concern with you and I appreciate your guts to say all those things...
Thank you Mistry - your comment brought a smile on my face! :)
True journalism, if you really want to write about something important, you've got to get right up in its ugly face. Great style, very empathic, it's always a pleasure to read the work of those with the ability to see a situation through the eyes of those affected by it.
It's very easy to turn a blind eye to such suffering, as I myself so often do, it's just so difficult to think of any practical way to change things for the better. I know it would take a much bigger man than I, hmmmm, small steps I guess.
Great hub, thanks for sharing.
Lovely comment Mrv.....and I'm happy that you understood what I was so desperately trying to convey. Sometimes, I think even more than 'great' men, it's the kind ones that I admire the most...so thank you for being you...! Small...quiet steps... that walk gently without treading on others...or making too much noise....yes, I love those kind. Take care...:)
amazingly powerful.. can really feel your heart through this, thank you
keep it up :)
Thank you Se7enth for reading, commenting and becoming a fan! I look forward to reading your work too. :)
myownworld...
It hurt me, it hurt me deep. I weep in silence and frustration for there are more important things at stake than human lives,and that´s the view of politics, military,rebels. All enmeshed in a selfish battle for control, oblivious to the destruction of society, lives of children and elderly who do not understand why so much rage exhales from their pores. How can we have a peaceful planet when the same race turns against itself?
Sad but conscientious hub!
Thumbs up! Good pointers here,
warmest regards and infinite blessings,
Al
Thank you Mystique for your wonderful comment; you come across as a very deep and sensitive person yourself... take care.. :)
To write what we envision is one thing, to write what we know is another. Your writing exudes not just words, but understanding, passion and love. Very touching, thank you.
Coming from a talented writer like you parrster, it means a lot! Take care...and I hope to read more of your story soon...
A good hub. Enjoyed it. Cheers.
Thank you Kish for reading and following! :)
Myownworld, I feel so redundant telling you how wonderful your ideas and your writing is. But I just wanted to tell you any way. Not only is war such a terrible thing, but it is so often the result of having people impose their religion on others. Do they really think that God will say "you brought so much misery to this world in my name that now I want to spend the rest of eternity with you at my side!" It is just amazing how confused humans can be!
I know gramon....nothing more frightening than religious zeal, or the wars fought in it's name. God could never be as intolerant and hard as some of these religious people themselves are.....certainly, he could never create a hell to torture people. I imagine him full of love and fun loving and the most forgiving of all beings..... :) Anyway, thank you friend for your wonderful comments always... x
Another well written hub making us conscious of the pratical world around us!! Yes, we the common man never want a war .. We are waiting to bask in longterm peace which should prevail like a tranquil halo and we can work happily to develope this mother earth!!
Kudos for another great hub!!
dream...all your comments are so deep and beautifully written...! It's sheer joy just reading them... take care and thank you with all my heart! :)
Hello Myown:
This is the first of your works I've read.
it is a moving, emotional, passionately and beautifully expressed piece.
it is obvious that you are a deeply "caring" person.
Unfortunately, we humans are chronically involved in murder and mayhem.
The history of humanity, from its chronicled beginning, has never experienced a moment of peace.
Biologically/anthropologically, we are genetically programmed as predators.
There is only 1 cure that will eventually heal this deadly genetic malady. That cure is the same element that created it: TIME!
I've visited N Africa where children are dying at an incredible rate. There is no "quality" of life. People live from day to day, hand to mouth, involved in only that which keeps them alive.
I was disgusted that in a country which is so rich in natural resources, that that kind of depravity and deprivation could exist.
What you experienced in Pakistan, is not uncommon. In fact it is the norm in many countries on this planet! The rich get richer, the poor get poorer.
Every nation on this earth has had the same opportunity to realize that which the USA has in just over 200 yrs.
They have existed for thousands of years and still labor under the tyranny of despotic rulers who are interested only in power, control and their own personal interests.
We, modern, humans are heading toward even greater turbulence and catastrophe.
As human population increases, so will its problems.
You are a wonderfully gifted, passionatley inspired writer!
Thanks for sharing with us, the caring and sensitive ...YOU!
I'm deeply moved by your wonderful and kind words... and I can tell that you understand. Thank you - straight from my heart. Am truly humbled... :)
We may be resilient, but the leaders searching for status, power and money, don't think of the nightmares they inflict on the people to further their own agendas. Those kids in the pics remind me of Kosovo. They too had to live their lives, under fire. It becomes just a part of your day, wondering if you die today, or just doing what comes natural as a human. Maybe reminding them someone else got rich from their suffering would make them feel better about being targets for just existing. Emotional hub MOW. Thank you.
"...reminding them someone else got rich from their suffering would make them feel better about being targets for just existing." so beautifully put yes! I loved your comment Dev...and thank you for reading... most appreciated! :)
Not wanting anouther 9/11 does not consist of revenge. The U.N. and State Department can levy harsh and effective pressure not only on the Taliban but especially on the countries that support or even turn a blind eye on it. If the U.S. wants a military presence around the world we're going to get a militant reaction. Strategic Diplomacy is as strong as an arsenal...it just takes time.
Thank you for your insights Mentalist acer. Leaving politics aside, I only share what I saw and found with my own eyes in a war zone i.e ordinary people who want nothing with wars suffering. I only wish to give voice to their unwilling involvement in this. Anyway, thank you so much for taking the time to read and comment! Much appreciated :)
I say that the homes of all of the leaders that are in charge of sending troops to war should be leveled. Then all of those leaders shall be brought together on some barren wasteland and told to fight their war however they see fit. Something tells me that we would live in much more peaceful world.
lol NU, you made me laugh...though on a serious note, god knows if there will ever be an end to these wars and the misery created in it's name. I fear, there will always be a justification for it.... meanwhile, innocent lives, esp. children will go on suffering. Those children, god.. why does my heart never stop crying out for them...! silly me...
but never mind, just happy to see you now... :)
This post is a Master Piece, more so because you had the heart and drive to experience the suffering yourself and write about it…your articles have always be so vivid and comprehensive in expression that it gives the reader a firsthand experience in visualizing the story themselves after reading it…
War in Pakistan has bought such torment upon the people there that one could never imagine the extent of destruction, but your post has given such a detailed insight into the aftermath from ground zero…
I come across many people from Pakistan who live as expats and they do not intend to go back to their land again fearing the agony and suffering faced by people there…I pray that peace prevails across the globe and there should not be any place for hatred in anyone’s heart…
"We know more about war that we know about peace, more about killing that we know about living"
@ jamsheed. Your words and comments always put a smile on my face... more so, because you express yourself so well. Yes, I know what you mean about the way expats don't want to return to that country; I myself have roots in pakistan (and india), so I'm deeply concerned about what's happening in that region; I want to one day find more time to work there as a social worker, or atleast, do something to help it's people. But right now my work here (plus my family) takes up all my energy. And then, there is africa... sigh... no end to the places you can travel to and work for...where war is wrecking lives.
You know, once years ago, I reached a point in my life (which i know many of us do) when you question your role in this world....and life seems so meaningless...and empty. It's a strange sense of restlessness... like mechanically living from day to day, without any purpose except to eat, earn and sleep. It all changed when I saw this suffering....for Ironically enough, I think it's people witnessing it who suffer more than those who're actually going through it. In many ways, it inspires me and makes me realize that this is what I wanted to do all my life... reach out to people. It's stronger than any religion.
See, how I go on.... I guess, you've just hit on a sensitive chord within me. Btw. hope you'll be writing your first hub soon. You could actually write about what you've said above - the plight of people in war torn countries. Just read the 'help' section above http://hubpages.com/faq/ best of luck. :)
Hey MOW, this is Jamsheed...thank you once again for your most humble acknowledgement…I wanted to let you know that I have published my first Hub following you advise and footsteps…a BIG thanks to you for motivating me to write…it feels great…I would love to hear your comments about my hub…as my mentor, I want you to be the one to comment first about my article which I strongly believe in…thank you again...
A good hub. Enjoyed it. Cheers.
Good to see you here Jamsheed... you're most kind. Trust me, it's not me who's inspired you to write - writing just finds you itself, esp. if flows naturally from you. Will soon find some time to read your work... take care my friend :)
@ Kadmiels... nice to see you, thank you for reading and the appreciation :)
How is my favorite freedom fighter today?
:) one word and silly tears in my eyes... I'm no fighter, and perhaps that's my greatest failing. Just love peace around me too much.... maybe, you should take me into your little chipmunk world... where people are just kind and spend their days among tree tops... perhaps, in another life, I might come back as one. I'd be happy I know...
You are a fighter for all of those who cannot fight. For those who have no voice, you yell the loudest. Besides, life as a chipmunk isn't always glorious. Lumberjacks can make things quite stressful, as can tornados. Other than that, I can't complain.
Only you can do this to me - make me cry and laugh with just one comment!! It's not a bad life NU... we'll brave the storm together, I can lead your hand to those voiceless people who need us, and you can make me smile when it gets too hard... and when they take our tree away, we'll find a secluded forest on top of a far away mountain away from everyone else... Could be a life... :)
I didn't mean to make you cry. Laugh yeah, but but never cry. I mean what would people say if a chipmunk got you all wet and messy (with tears I mean)?
Perhaps I've said too much... Just don't cry again. That's how this whole mess started in the first place.
:) lol.. jokes apart, you're a loyal friend NU... and you've always been here for me, and god knows how much that's meant to me. Never change... x
btw. just submitted a 5000 word short story for a competition.... I could almost imagine turning it into a book...maybe, one day I will. Meanwhile, hope you're writing too?
Sounds good! You're a great writer, I'm sure you'll do fine. Take it as far as you can. You didn't have to sign over the rights to it for the contest did you? I've found a bunch of so-called contests that assume full rights on everything turned in.
I've been scratching out a few ideas when I get a chance. I'll keep ya posted.
Thank you NU... you're a very unique writer too, if only they'd let you write freely and not ban what you publish! Poor you... always having to keep it under check...! take care, always x
Words failed me at first, myownworld, as I let the images from this hub and imagery from your words settle in my mind - along with the comments in the latter section. Nothing heroic in the way of fighting for country/region is here (not like tv commercials for military recruiting tell us in some areas of the world), only a bunch of humans suffering from food and water scarcity, loss of homes, family, friends, pets, lifestyle, comfort, normalcy... Keep presenting this material to people, MOW.
@ mythbuster: I so value it when the point one is trying to make through a hub is not lost on the reader. Yes, there was honestly no 'glory' to war, certainly nothing heroic that I saw with my own eyes.... just ordinary human lives suffering and begging for a normal life. Thank you for understanding.... much appreciated :)
MOW,
No war is good but some wars are needed while others miss the mark-I wish i could say that all wars are bad or not needed but there is only so much that can be done thru diplomacy- "the point at which diplmacy fails is ere to close to a sabres blade" can't remember who said that but it eings true- and as we all know men do two things well or at least they try- they fight and they love and when the fight is for love- e all must be careful
Great hub-
TH
MOW
While i appreciate the beautifully written hub and your love for humanity, i would just like to say (being a Pakistani girl, myself) that you kind of exaggerated things a bit. You make it sound like all there is to our lives is war and bloodshed. Not at all. I live here in Pakistan and i have never seen a terrorist, or a bomb blast, or Taliban, or war conditions in my life. Yes i do agree that Waziristan area is in the clutches of war, and you did a good job putting their emotions to words, yet you portray Pakistan quite wrongly. We live normal lives just like you, we complain about things that average people do. We have dreams and aspirations to excel. And most of us, succeed in reaching our goals as well. You forget the youngest microsoft specialist is a Pakistani girl. The students who have world records for scoring the maximum number of A's in their O/A levels are both Pakistanis!
So, nice hub, but please don't make it sound like survival is all we do and hope to do.
TattoGuy 2 years ago
I thought you might write this when you returned and it's just a brilliant piece of insight into what we see on the news as we eat our meal in the comfort zone of our homes.
We here in the Uk and America are lucky yet we still bicker about silly bullshit as people struggle for food and clothes, a humbling hub indeed my friend.
Take care and keep writing these brilliant hubs MOW, I will pop in the odd time to see if you written more. Ciao xox