Dear Auntie Agni,
Given the current situation of the country, I am getting frustrated by the fact that the relevant stakeholders, chairpersons and representatives are not taking any action. For a moment, we all think about doing something ourselves. But what can we do? What are the possible actions that an individual, be he from a poor background or the CEO of a private company, should take in order to support the country? The public is aware that, if they do not take necessary action, the overflowing water will eventually drown them too.
A Loyal Citizen
Dear A Loyal Citizen,
At a time when most people would vote to leave, it is heartening and surprising to hear from someone who wants to support the country and help out during tough times. I wish the chairpersons and representatives you are waiting on shared your sentiment. Indeed, the country is going through a severe economic crisis and everyone is feeling the impact. In such an environment, I would hope that you and your family are able to take care of themselves and meet all your needs of food, water and shelter. If you are able to keep your head above water, be grateful for it every day.
‘What can I do to help the country?’
Whether you are a CEO or a struggling breadwinner, you can help your country. The way to do this is to start thinking about the impact of every action you take. Think beyond the products or services you are buying. So, let’s say you take Auntie’s advice of buying local products. Some people will already have made the switch, given the soaring prices of imported products. However, if you haven’t, think about how buying local will help the economy. When you buy Pakistani products, you help local businesses, which in turn helps your fellow countrymen and women to retain their jobs.
If you are lucky enough to be in a position to be able to hire people, whether it is in your company or your home, do your best to retain them and do whatever you can for them. It is very easy to start riding your high horse and feel like an emperor when you are used to people serving you. However, this is the time to realise that employer-employee relationships are a two-way street.
It is time employers tighten their belts and do more than what feels comfortable for them. If you don’t offer food to your employees, think about how you can do that. If you can, increase their salaries or give them a bonus. Small ways in which you can benefit them will go a long way in strengthening relations.
Start a business if you can. It will create jobs and could potentially create some cash flow.
If you can’t make a substantial investment, support a new local business by helping it through crowd-funding.
Beyond that, just hand money out to causes you believe in. If you believe your fellow Pakistanis need a good education, give to an educational charity you trust. If you want to help those struggling to buy food, give to a charity that is working in that area. You don’t have to give to an organisation. Give to people you know are struggling but are not asking for help. You live in this country, you know the issues. Just pick a cause that is close to your heart and give what you can.
In addition to all of the above, pay your taxes, even if you don’t love the government and think they are all crooks. Some of that amount does go back into the economy and helps the country. Hold on to your patriotism, love. That is what this country needs the most.
Published in Dawn, EOS, February 26th, 2023
