THROUGH the media, we see the conditions in Pakistan and the progress other nations have made — nations which gained freedom with us or even after us like China and Malaysia.

What happened to our nation or did we ever evolve into a nation at all? Just ask anybody from any nation about their conditions. You are most likely to hear about pride and unity. Why is it that when a person who keeps his house tidy and neat throws litter all around him in a public park?

Why don’t we feel remorse on breaking a red signal or overspeeding and by breaking other laws? And why is it that we, the same people, on going to foreign countries obey their laws and follow their rules and regulations rather than breaking any!

The reason is that we take all our blessings for granted.

It is time we started acting like a responsible nation and thinking collectively like one family.

Why can’t we work for the betterment of the nation? All we have to do is work sincerely, take responsibility for our actions, and think individually for collective improvement rather than blaming the entire nation for our individual mistakes.

If we want to see Pakistan prosper, then each one of us has to analyse herself/himself only. Only then can we prosper as a nation.

Forget about politicians, diplomats, government officials and all other persons except yourself. Become an honest, hardworking person and motivate others to become likewise.

My fellow countrymen, change yourselves for the better for bringing improvement in society.

SYED MUHAMMAD QASIM Lahore