THE country is passing through a critical phase in its history. In addition to the menace of terrorism, it is also facing myriad social and economic challenges, as well as an energy crisis. These issues have added to the peoples’ miseries and the only option they have is to raise their voice in protest. [Yet] unity alone can help solve these chronic problems. …[S]ome people, in their individual capacity, are making efforts [towards solutions] but these issues need concerted and collective efforts. …Opposition parties have continued their activities against the government … but the nation is not paying attention…. The nation does not want to create more crises … by playing into the hands of the opposition.

The nation should also keep in mind that cleanliness has great significance for human life…. On the surface, it is a minor issue but it has a serious impact on the future of the nation. …Cleanliness was considered important in times when there was no currency or bazaars and people of different castes used to live together like one family. Now, the importance of cleanliness is felt more because of the increase in population, industrialisation and people’s movement. Polluted environments … can cause various fatal diseases.

…It is the need of the hour to take effective steps for cleanliness…. If people from a particular area select one day a week [to ensure] cleanliness, they can save themselves from different diseases. They can also hire the services of some people in their communities. By keeping the surroundings clean one can fulfil national and moral responsibilities as well as attract other people’s appreciation. No doubt, these challenges add to the people’s miseries but mere complaints cannot help resolve these issues. The entire nation needs to join hands and make a collective effort to overcome these problems. Being responsible Pakistanis, we have to at least fulfil our own national duties to minimise the difficulties; if we are negligent, future generations will not forgive us. — (Aug 23)

Selected and translated by Ali Hazrat Bacha.