During the second week of August, an unexpected wave of enthusiasm and fervour engulfs every patriotic soul. Horns blare in the distance, and conspicuous stalls adorn the streets, showcasing glistening accessories. The entire county is immersed in green, with flags flying proudly on every roof. The same crescent and star could also be seen dangling in the air or hanging loosely over twine strings, extending from one pole to the other, adding to the festive ambiance.

Youth and children painting their plump cheeks in intricate patterns, green bangles with tinkling, badges and headbands, and how can we forget the stimulating national songs all the way from our forefathers.

What’s going on? Oh yes! We are celebrating independence.

Crowding the streets, blaring music and constantly yelling, we are celebrating independence. Unity, faith and discipline are what the Quaid emphasised on. But is this wild revelry really a display of discipline?

This isn’t something the Quaid would have appreciated mature Pakistanis doing. Do we truly understand the essence of independence? It means being self-reliant and free, yet let’s ponder on it: are we truly free? We have become captives of our own devices, imprisoned by hours spent motionless, eyes locked onto screens. This isn’t the ideal Pakistan the Quaid struggled for.

We aren’t the nation for which countless of our gallant warriors shed blood. This ship was dragged out of storm for us to sail tranquilly to avoid its wreck, but what are we doing? Creating a whirlpool just for ourselves to sink and erase off in the depths of darkness?

No! This can’t be because there’s no power on earth that can undo Pakistan. There is no power on earth that can undo you if you consider yourself a part of this motherland. There has to be a solution. Yes, there are thousands. Dressing up in the green theme every year won’t make you patriotic. I know everybody has their own ways to celebrate and, of course, they should have the full right to do so. Just make sure your enjoyment doesn’t create unease for your fellow Pakistanis.

Imagine an ambulance stuck in a jam while youngsters just celebrating independence and blocking the road. Imagine someone who’s sick trying to rest, but the blaring music is not letting them do so. And what happens after the 14th of August? All the flags helplessly lying on the streets, either squelched by vehicles or stepped over by their own bearers? Isn’t this disrespectful? Who says only making your nation proud of your achievement is patriotism?

Of course, it is, but it’s not the only act. Planting a tree, showing compassion and gratitude, charity, building educational institutes for the unprivileged to brighten their future and, of course, doing your own chores counts too!

Never think you are too young, it’s not your responsibility and no one would value your opinion. A long journey always begins with a single step. Start over right now, take your time to think up of how on this Independence Day you can proudly flaunt and prove that you are independent and responsible. Believe me, you will feel as if you are celebrating the best Independence Day ever.

Enthusiasm, determination and resilience were always part of a Pakistani’s personality and I hope it will always be. All you have to do is lend a hand in building Pakistan, a nation our forefathers laid the foundation of by giving numerous sacrifices. Compared to them, what we need to do is easier.

You can form a club, include your friends, classmates, cousins, neighbours or anyone else, and begin working for the well-being of our homeland. Engaging in more social interactions can boost your confidence, and by listening and considering everyone’s opinions, you will learn to cooperate and tolerate. This process of learning from each other fosters a sense of brotherhood, or more specifically, unity. Believe in yourself and remember that you have the responsibility of Pakistan on your shoulders.

This is how we should truly celebrate 76 years of independence in 2023. Let’s take an oath of loyalty to our Quaid, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and this land, Pakistan, always keeping in mind that we are here to serve this nation. Don’t limit yourself; celebrate with your friends and family, spread happiness and be a true patriotic Pakistani whose acts bring improvement in the nation!

Published in Dawn, Young World, Aug 12th, 2023