THE world of science fell in grief with the demise of Stephen Hawking. He was, simultaneously, a source of inspiration for both scientists and patients of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

At a very early age Hawking fell victim to the ALS disease, but he amazingly managed to dominate all excuses associated with ALS and changed practically the meaning of ALS from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis to awakened lively sleeper.

He wrestled all his life with ALS and never halted from reaching astronomical heights in his scientific career. His works continue to inspire scientists.

What is hurting is that his contribution cannot be understood other than by scientists.

People in today’s world are much concerned about the business aspect of scientific invention because it carries financial dimension. The joy of pure science has lost its grip.

Being a patient of ALS, one finds oneself in a locked box where the body cannot move and only the brain functions. However, this activity of mind is normally seen as boosting the pain of the body.

Hawking, rather than embracing the compromised passiveness, made use of his brain and embarked on a journey of decoding the universe through his gifted skill.

Kamran Irshad

Peshawar

Published in Dawn, March 17th, 2018