With each passing minute, the numbness merely increased: on a day when Pakistan’s soul was snatched by terrorists, the number of children returning home in coffins merely increased. This wasn’t just a cowardly attack on a school; it was an assault on Pakistan, its freedom, and its future. From the deafening sobs of parents, the many faces and stories of innocence, to the procession of tears of fellow citizens, Pakistan has changed forever.
The more we are different, the more we are the same: schoolchildren pray for those departed |
The principal who fought till the end: Mrs Kazi (fourth from the left) gave her life up as she sought to protect every last one of her charges. |
Targets of the terrorists: those who are still learning to stand in a single file |
The ambivalence of a selfie: one picture brings unbridled joy and uncontrollable tears. These smiles are no more |
They were once saplings; they couldn’t grow up into trees |
An English literature notebook that could not be filled. No erasers can remove its stains of blood spilt. |
A constant reminder: ambulance sirens are now a throwback to the day when Pakistan’s soul was snatched |
How do we take your pain away? How do we ensure you are better? |
The heroes of our time: ordinary people who carried the hopes of our future to safety |
Despite being in the lap of safety, the trauma suffered by these children is greater than what most adults see in their lives . Will they ever return to school as mentally healthy children again? |
The pain of a parent: is my child alive? |
Turn away now, for this moment will remain forever etched in your memory. Send your children to school, for the only response to savagery is more education — APP |
Let the fire burn, let this be a beginning for the better |
Keep the flags flying, even if they are on half-mast. |
Published in Dawn, Sunday Magazine, December 21st, 2014