THE Army Public School and College System as an entity is much more than an educational institution. It stands as a creed, a fraternity, a family bound together by collective experiences and values, which transcend time and place.

My aim is not to make this yet another expression of the grief each of us feel, young and old alike. Instead, I hope that by virtue of personal association, these words can help remind ourselves and the students, in particular, of the ideals that have defined and will always define a common consciousness.

Political or ideological narratives notwithstanding, perhaps an inward examination of some simple principles, inculcated by this institution, may serve in finding that sense of hope and purpose again.

With an experience that is closely aligned with the culture and ethos of the armed forces, sacrifice is deeply ingrained and almost expected of each one of us, on a familial, as well as on a personal level. In its own tragic irony, this might well be placed right at the top of what is an illustrious record of sacrifices made by the APSACS community, in the way of righteousness and humanity.

Another defining characteristic of this shared consciousness is courage: which doesn’t relate to a hard defiance of our perceived fears, but the courage to relentlessly pursue. It also relates to resilience and fortitude, to pick ourselves up after a fall, and to help those who may not be as strong.

Time heals everything. However, it may never heal the hatred we feel towards those who have brought this upon us. But hatred is the wrong ingredient with which to create dreams; for they ought to be built upon love, sincerity and a sense of purpose that lies beyond us.

May the dreams of our 149 fallen siblings and friends be that higher cause – for each of us to stand tall and keep moving forward, in the pursuit of knowledge and excellence. We will rise, shine and smile again. And yes, never forget.

Saif Ullah Khan

Toronto, Canada

Published in Dawn December 23th , 2014