The text reflects on the passing year 2024, contrasting personal disappointments with global events. It critiques the persistent socio-economic challenges and political failures in Pakistan, comparing the country unfavorably to India. The author expresses hope for positive change in 2025, while acknowledging skepticism rooted in past experiences. The piece also notes the deaths of prominent figures like Jimmy Carter and Manmohan Singh, and anticipates potential shifts in global politics, particularly in Syria and US-Pakistan relations. Finally, the author calls for improved foreign policy and reduced internal conflict.

Source Material Review: Reflections on Time, Change, and Global Events

Quiz

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

1. According to the author, what is the inherent nature of the world in terms of happiness and sorrow?
2. What is the author’s personal reflection on the year 2024?
3. How does the author describe the state of Pakistan at the end of 2024?
4. What economic policy does the author suggest for Pakistan, and why?
5. What is the author’s view of Pakistan’s political leadership in the context of past promises and actions?
6. According to the author, what is the significance of the deaths of Jimmy Carter and Man Mohan Singh?
7. What major global event does the author see as a sign of change at the end of 2024?
8. What is the author’s perspective on the role of the newly elected US President Donald Trump?
9. How does the author characterize the relationship between Pakistan and India and what change does the author hope for?
10. What is the overall mood or sentiment of the author as they look toward the new year?

Quiz Answer Key

1. The author believes the world is a mixture of both happiness and sorrow, with the latter being more temporary. The world constantly changes, and life is a cycle of ups and downs.
2. The author personally experienced the year 2024 as a “common sorrow,” but despite this, the author has developed new hopes for the coming year 2025.
3. The author sees Pakistan as experiencing continued public suffering and deprivation with persistent poverty, inflation, unemployment, and unfulfilled promises from leaders.
4. The author suggests reducing taxes from ten to fifteen percent in order to reduce theft and improve capacity, and therefore bring prosperity.
5. The author is skeptical of Pakistan’s political leadership, noting that they continue to make false promises, and their track record demonstrates that they are on crutches.
6. The author views the deaths of Jimmy Carter and Man Mohan Singh as significant losses, as they were both ideal, long-lived individuals. Carter is honored for his human rights leadership, and Singh was respected for his policies that led to Indian prosperity.
7. The author sees the end of dictatorship in Syria as a sign of great revolution and change, and a possible new era for that country.
8. The author notes that there are high expectations for peace and development, and the opposition party is presenting him as a rescue mission.
9. The author characterizes the relationship as one of hostility and believes that the leaders have not been able to control their hatred of India. The author hopes for positive changes in foreign policy.
10. The author expresses a mix of weariness and hope, acknowledging past disappointments while still expressing a desire for a better future, both personally and globally.

Essay Questions

Instructions: Write a well-developed essay addressing each of the following prompts. Be sure to cite evidence from the source material.

1. Analyze the author’s view on the cyclical nature of life, as it relates to both personal experience and global events.
2. Discuss the author’s critique of Pakistan’s political and economic situation, including suggested remedies.
3. Evaluate the author’s perspective on leadership, drawing examples from Jimmy Carter, Man Mohan Singh, and the current leaders of Pakistan.
4. Explore the author’s view of global change, paying particular attention to Syria, and the roles of leaders like Donald Trump.
5. Synthesize the author’s attitude towards the past, present and future, and what it reflects about the author’s overall perspective.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Darwish: A term often used to describe a Sufi mystic or a humble person who is detached from worldly desires. The author uses this term to describe themselves.
• Khwas/Elite Class: Refers to the privileged or upper-class segment of society.
• Taxistan: A derogatory term to indicate that taxes are too high and the system is corrupt and failing.
• Aran Pakistan: (Likely) A colloquial term used in Pakistan signifying that a new plan or new promises are being introduced, especially in government or national contexts. In this document, it’s used to highlight the pattern of false promises.
• Chipqalis: (Likely) A reference to political or social unrest, crisis or conflicts. The term references a time of turbulence.
• Barmala: A colloquial term used in Pakistan, often indicating the political leadership has no power or influence.
• Milji and Mawa: (Likely) Terms used to describe someone who is a savior or rescuer in a political or social context. It is being used by the opposition party in Pakistan in the article.
• Choli Daman: A common saying in Hindi and Urdu to describe something or people that are inseparable, or always go together. In the article, it is used to illustrate the relationship of sorrow and happiness.

A Darwish’s Reflections: Time, Politics, and Hope

Okay, here’s a briefing document summarizing the key themes and ideas from the provided text, incorporating quotes where relevant:

Briefing Document: Analysis of “Pasted Text”

Date: October 27, 2024

Subject: Analysis of a Personal Reflection on Time, Societal Issues, and Global Events

Source: Excerpts from “Pasted Text”

Overview:

This document analyzes a reflective piece that intertwines personal observations with commentary on national and global affairs. The author, who identifies as “Darwish,” uses the passage of time and the transition from 2024 to 2025 as a lens through which to examine themes of happiness, suffering, political disappointment, and the state of the world. The tone is a mixture of personal lament, social critique, and cautious optimism.

Key Themes and Ideas:

1. The Cyclical Nature of Life and the Struggle for Happiness:

• Theme: The text opens with a contemplation on the transient nature of time and the human pursuit of happiness amidst a world filled with both joy and sorrow.
• Analysis: The author suggests that life is an endless cycle of seeking “the best,” often in vain. He notes, “This world of ours is a mixture of both. ‘Sometimes there is sorrow, sometimes there is happiness, what was there now, and what is there now, the world changes just like that, this is the name of the world’ it will get spoiled.”
• Key Quote: “We live to be able to get rid of sorrows and embrace happiness or comforts, but what to do? This world of ours is a mixture of both.”
• Connection: This theme of a mixed existence ties into the broader human condition and the struggle to find meaning and peace despite hardships.

1. The Inevitability of Sorrow and the Art of Living:

• Theme: The author argues that sorrow is an unavoidable part of life and emphasizes the importance of learning to live with it.
• Analysis: The author believes that “it is not possible to get rid of sorrows”. Despite fleeting moments of happiness, the author sees that sorrow is “some spark…[that] can turn your lap into ashes”. The recommendation, therefore, is to learn “the art of living, smiling or celebrating and sharing happiness”.
• Key Quote: “flowers and thorns are accompanied by choli daman so with sorrows Learn the art of living, smiling or celebrating and sharing happiness. Even if the time of sorrows comes, live with a smile.”
• Connection: This reflects a stoic approach, advocating resilience and the ability to find joy even amidst adversity.

1. Disappointment with National Politics and Empty Promises:

• Theme: The author expresses deep disappointment and cynicism towards the political situation in his country (implied to be Pakistan), citing persistent issues like poverty, inflation, unemployment, and unchecked extremism.
• Analysis: He criticizes the government’s “false promises” and the perpetuation of suffering for ordinary citizens, noting, “Even though the years have passed, there has been no difference in public sufferings and deprivations. The same poverty, the same inflation, unemployment, the monopoly of extremism, the same strangling, the same false promises of the leaders.” The author uses the phrase “Aran Pakistan” to illustrate another empty promise from leadership.
• Key Quote: “We lived on your promises, this life is a lie. If I had trust, I wouldn’t have died of happiness.”
• Connection: This highlights the author’s frustration with the lack of progress and the disconnect between political rhetoric and reality. This is underscored by the idea that the leadership’s actions are “crutches”, meaning that they are ineffective.

1. Critique of National Policy and International Comparisons:

• Theme: The author critiques the country’s failure to adopt successful models of development and its misplaced animosity toward neighboring nations.
• Analysis: The author contrasts his country’s backwardness with India’s progress under a model he suggests is similar to one proposed by Nawaz Sharif. Similarly, he critiques “pious Muslim brothers” for believing the West’s development stemmed from Islamic doctrine while neglecting their own development.
• Key Quote: “Whereas, we ourselves did not adopt Nawaz Sharif’s model, so today we are backward… This is exactly the same situation as many of our pious Muslim brothers comparing themselves with the West. They often find themselves claiming that the West has developed so much by adopting our sacred ideology while we are. Since they did not adopt these sacred things, they are crying all over the world being humiliated and humiliated.”
• Connection: This reveals a concern over missed opportunities and the need for a shift in perspective and national strategy.

1. The Call for Reform and Hopes for the Future:

• Theme: Despite expressing cynicism, the author maintains a glimmer of hope for change, particularly in tax reform and foreign policy.
• Analysis: The author acknowledges that current leadership is expressing helplessness, but then still hopes that “there can only be hopes of goodness, progress, or prosperity.” Additionally, he sees positive signs in other countries with the change in US leadership and developments in Syria.
• Key Quote: “If I can, I will reduce the tax from ten to fifteen percent so that theft will be reduced and capacity will be improved… Let’s hope for the new year. We will bring positive changes in our foreign policy, we will take a bold step to make India hostility as the axis of foreign policy”.
• Connection: This showcases a desire for progress and a belief that positive shifts are possible through conscious effort.

1. Tribute to Global Leaders and Reflection on Global Events:

• Theme: The author pays tribute to the late American President Jimmy Carter and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and comments on the changing global landscape.
• Analysis: The author is impressed by Jimmy Carter and Manmohan Singh’s long and “ideal” lives. He also notes the recent end of a long oppressive regime in Syria. He concludes by acknowledging that the US is a beacon of hope in the world as of the start of 2025.
• Key Quote: “Globally, the last days of 2024 have proved to be a harbinger of a great revolution or change regarding Syria. The dark night of dictatorship and oppression over more than half a century ended in Syria… The world has high expectations for peace and development from the newly elected US President Donald Trump.”
• Connection: This demonstrates the author’s awareness of global affairs and recognition of positive role models and international shifts.

Conclusion:

The “Pasted Text” offers a complex and nuanced perspective on personal experience, national struggles, and global changes. It presents a portrait of an individual grappling with the complexities of life, disappointed with political realities, but still holding onto hope for a brighter future. The document’s central themes of navigating suffering, pursuing genuine progress, and striving for a better world resonate broadly. The author’s voice, that of a “Darwish”, suggests a blend of detachment and deep concern, indicative of a thoughtful observer of both the mundane and the momentous.

Reflections on a Year of Change

FAQ: Reflections on Time, Change, and Global Events

1. The text speaks of a mix of sorrow and happiness in life, what is the main takeaway regarding how to navigate these contrasting experiences?
2. The primary takeaway is that life is inherently a mixture of joy and sorrow, much like “flowers and thorns.” While happiness may be fleeting, sorrow is an inevitable part of existence. Instead of trying to eliminate sorrow completely, the key is to learn the “art of living” with it, by smiling, celebrating moments of happiness, and sharing joy with others, even when faced with challenging times. The past year may have brought “common sorrow,” but one should still hold onto hopes for the new year.
3. What is the author’s perspective on the hopes and promises made with each new year?
4. The author is somewhat cynical about the promises and hopes associated with each new year. They observe that while people desire to transform failures into successes and gather joy instead of sorrows, these desires are often unmet. The author states “it is not possible to get rid of sorrows,” and views new year resolutions, especially in the context of political promises, with skepticism. For example, they see a new “five-year plan” as another empty promise similar to the last.
5. How does the author view the political and economic state of their own country in the provided text?
6. The author paints a bleak picture of their country’s state. They believe there has been no difference in the public’s suffering and deprivation despite the passage of years. Poverty, inflation, unemployment, extremism, and empty promises from leaders persist. The author criticizes the government, describing it as being on “crutches,” and questions their ability to bring meaningful change. They even refer to their country as “taxistan,” highlighting the burden of taxation.
7. The text compares the economic progress of India and Pakistan, what is the central point of comparison and the reason cited for the disparity?
8. The central point of comparison is the development models adopted by each country. The author mentions that India progressed by adopting a development model similar to one used by Pakistani politician Nawaz Sharif, while Pakistan failed to implement such a model and now lags behind. This highlights a missed opportunity. The same is echoed by many in their own country who compare the state of the West vs their own, claiming they are successful because they adopted their sacred ideals.
9. The author highlights two figures, Jimmy Carter and Manmohan Singh, what makes them stand out in the author’s eyes?
10. Jimmy Carter and Manmohan Singh are admired figures who led long, impactful lives. Jimmy Carter is recognized for his human rights leadership and his role in global affairs, especially during tumultuous times. Manmohan Singh, who is an Indian leader, is notable for creating effective policies, so much so that Pakistan citizens reportedly mourned his death.
11. What major global changes are highlighted at the end of 2024, and what are the author’s hopes for these changes?
12. The text mentions a potential “great revolution or change” in Syria, marking the end of a long period of dictatorship and oppression. The author hopes that this will bring an end to the violence and usher in an era of peace, security, and prosperity in the Middle East. Additionally, the author also acknowledges the high expectations for peace and development from the newly elected US President Donald Trump.
13. How does the author view their country’s foreign policy, and what is their hope for the future?
14. The author is critical of their country’s foreign policy, particularly its hostility toward India, which they describe as “incompetence and irresponsible thinking” by the policymakers. The author hopes for a positive change in the new year, including a “bold step” to reduce the animosity towards their neighbor and focus on development and cooperation.
15. What overall feeling or sentiment permeates the text?
16. The overall sentiment is a mixture of hope and cynicism. There is hope for change, especially in the new year, coupled with a deep sense of skepticism due to past failures and disappointments. The author acknowledges the inevitability of sorrow but also encourages resilience and joy. There’s a longing for better political leadership and effective policies, both domestically and internationally, as well as a call for global peace and cooperation.

Pakistan’s 2024-2025: A Year of Sorrow and Hope

Okay, here is a timeline and cast of characters based on the provided text:

Timeline of Events

• Pre-2024: The text establishes a general context of ongoing struggles within Pakistan: poverty, inflation, unemployment, extremism, and perceived false promises from leaders. This is framed as a cyclical pattern with no significant improvement over previous years.
• 2024: The year is described as a “common sorrow” for the author (“Darwish”). The text notes the ongoing suffering of the general public in Pakistan.
• End of 2024:Significant global events are noted: The end of the dictatorship in Syria, marking a possible turning point in that region.
• The deaths of two significant figures are mentioned: former US President Jimmy Carter and former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. These deaths were felt globally, with even Pakistanis offering prayers for Manmohan Singh.
• Beginning of 2025:The author (Darwish) expresses hope for improvement in the new year but remains skeptical due to past disappointments.
• A new “five-year plan” or “sucker” called “Aran Pakistan” is announced in Pakistan, promising development and prosperity.
• The newly elected US President Donald Trump is mentioned. There’s optimism from some quarters for peace and development under his leadership, though the opposition in Pakistan is more critical.
• There’s also hope for a change in Pakistan’s foreign policy toward India, shifting away from the current state of hostility.

Cast of Characters

• Darwish: The author and narrator of the text. He is presented as someone disillusioned with the ongoing state of affairs in Pakistan. He acknowledges the cyclical nature of suffering and hope but is hopeful that the new year will bring change. He is reflective on the nature of life, encompassing both joy and sorrow. Darwish seems to be a keen observer of both national and international events.
• Shahbaz: Referred to as “our high-flying Shahbaz,” he is likely a high-ranking political figure in Pakistan. The author is skeptical of his ability to enact meaningful change due to past experience. The implication here is of a leader who promises much but delivers little.
• Nawaz Sharif: Mentioned as the leader whose development model was used by India, and whose ideas were not implemented in Pakistan.
• Manmohan Singh: The former Indian Prime Minister. His death is marked with grief in Pakistan, and his success in leading India is admired by the author.
• Jimmy Carter: Former US President. He is remembered as a human rights leader who served during a time of significant global change. The text indicates his passing occurred near the end of 2024, and he had a long and ideal life.
• Donald Trump: Newly elected US President at the end of 2024. The text notes differing views on his election, with some seeing it as an opportunity for peace and development, while the Pakistani opposition views his election in a negative light.
• Unidentified Pakistani Policy Makers: Criticized for their “incompetence and irresponsible thinking,” particularly regarding their hostile policies toward India. They are the subject of the author’s hope for change in the new year.
• Taliban Brothers: The text references the Taliban, suggesting the group is still involved in Afghan politics, and their dealings are related to the incompetent thinking of Pakistani policy makers.

Summary of Key Themes

• Cycle of Hope and Disappointment: The text highlights the recurring pattern of hope for a better future followed by disillusionment due to the lack of real progress. This is a key point made by the author about his view of the world.
• Critique of Pakistani Leadership: The author is highly critical of Pakistani leaders, their empty promises, and their failure to address the nation’s many challenges.
• Yearning for Change: Despite skepticism, there is a strong desire for positive change, both domestically in Pakistan and in the broader international context.
• International Events and Figures: The text demonstrates an awareness of and concern for significant events happening around the world, illustrating that Pakistani concerns don’t occur in a vacuum.

Let me know if you would like any additional analysis or detail on these sources.

Time’s Passage: Personal, Societal, and Global Perspectives

The sources discuss the passage of time in a few different ways, often relating it to personal experience, societal changes, and global events. Here’s a breakdown:

• The fleeting nature of time: The sources emphasize how quickly time passes [1]. Days, months, and years go by rapidly, often without people realizing it, as they are caught up in their routines [1].
• The cyclical nature of time: The world is portrayed as constantly changing [1]. The author discusses how happiness and sorrow alternate [1]. The author also contrasts the failures of the past with the hopes for the future [1]. There is an expectation that new years will bring improvement, despite the cyclical nature of problems [1, 2]. There is a feeling that some problems are just continuing over the years [1].
• Time and personal experience: The author reflects on personal experiences, noting that the year 2024 was one of “common sorrow” [1]. However, there is a hope for the new year 2025, suggesting a personal experience of time moving forward and bringing with it both challenges and optimism [1].
• Time and societal change: The text discusses the lack of progress in addressing public sufferings, such as poverty, inflation, and unemployment, despite the passage of years [1]. There is a critique of leaders making false promises, with the implication that the same issues persist despite the passage of time [1]. The text describes the changes happening in Syria, highlighting the end of a dictatorship [3].
• Time and global events: The text notes the passing of prominent figures like Jimmy Carter and Man Mohan Singh, showing how time is marked by significant global events [4]. The text also mentions a time of great change in the Middle East, with shifting situations in Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan [4]. The election of a new US president, Donald Trump, is noted as a significant marker of time and a potential turning point [3].
• Time and political change: The author contrasts past and present political figures, highlighting a change in leadership and potential shifts in policies [2]. The author is looking for new leadership [2]. There is an analysis of political promises, especially the “five-year plan,” as evidence of how time can be used to manipulate public perception [1]. There is a focus on whether any real progress has been made over time [1, 2].

In summary, the sources present time as a force that is both personal and global, marked by individual experiences, societal changes, and significant historical events. The passage of time is seen as both cyclical, with recurring issues, and linear, with the hope of progress and change.

Dualities of the World

The sources present the world as having a distinct duality, characterized by the coexistence of opposing forces and experiences. Here’s a breakdown of this duality as portrayed in the sources:

• Sorrow and Happiness: The most prominent duality is the constant interplay between sorrow and happiness [1]. The world is described as a mixture of both, where neither state is permanent [1]. The sources emphasize that life involves navigating these contrasting experiences, and that happiness is often temporary while sorrow may seem to linger [1]. The author notes that people live to get rid of sorrows and embrace happiness [1].
• Hope and Disappointment: There’s a recurring theme of hope for a better future, particularly with each new year [1, 2]. People wish for the new year to bring success and joy, but there is a recognition that these hopes may not be fully realized, with the author stating that “it is not possible to get rid of sorrows” [1]. This highlights the duality between aspiration and the reality of potential disappointments [1].
• Progress and Stagnation: The sources express a duality between the desire for progress and the reality of persistent problems [1-3]. There’s a critique of the lack of change in addressing issues like poverty and unemployment [1]. Despite the passage of time and the promises of leaders, these problems seem to remain, creating a duality between the hope for development and the stagnation experienced by many [1, 3]. The author notes that “the same poverty, the same inflation, unemployment” continue year after year [1].
• Change and Continuity: The sources present a world that is constantly changing, with new events and leadership shifts [1, 2, 4]. However, there’s also a sense of continuity, with the same problems and patterns recurring [1, 3]. This creates a duality where the world is both in flux and yet, in some ways, remains the same [1].
• Individual vs. Collective Experience: The author’s personal experience of “common sorrow” in 2024 contrasts with their hope for the future [1]. This illustrates a duality between individual experiences and the broader societal or global context [1, 4]. The author notes that while 2024 was difficult, there is a hope for 2025 [1]. This emphasizes the tension between personal feelings and the larger world events.
• Idealism and Realism: The text describes the idealism of political leaders and compares it with the reality of their actions, pointing out a contradiction between promises and results [1-3]. There is a tension between the ideal of a prosperous nation and the reality of existing problems. The author also notes how some compare their country with the West or with India and the contrast between the ideal and the actual situation of their own countries.
• Positive and Negative Global Events: The text highlights both positive and negative events occurring in the world at large. The death of leaders such as Jimmy Carter and Man Mohan Singh, are contrasted with the end of dictatorship in Syria. The text notes the duality between positive and negative international events as well as the potential of the new US President, Donald Trump. [2, 4].

In summary, the sources depict a world characterized by a constant tension between opposing forces. This duality is not just a matter of good versus evil, but a more complex interplay of joy and sorrow, progress and stagnation, change and continuity, personal experience and the wider world.

Global Political Instability

The sources suggest a significant degree of political instability, both within specific countries and on a global scale. Here’s an analysis of political instability as depicted in the sources:

• Internal Instability and Discontent: There is a strong sense of dissatisfaction with the political situation within the author’s own country [1]. The sources mention persistent problems such as “poverty, inflation, unemployment,” and the “monopoly of extremism” [1]. These issues suggest a government unable or unwilling to address the basic needs of its citizens [1]. There’s also a critique of leaders making “false promises,” which points to a lack of trust in political institutions and figures [1]. The author mentions a new five-year plan which they describe as a “sucker,” and political rhetoric about the country starting to fly towards development, indicating a distrust of government initiatives [1]. The fact that “public sufferings and deprivations” remain the same year after year highlights the instability of the political system and the lack of meaningful change [1].
• Leadership on “Crutches”: The author refers to a political leader who is “on crutches” and has no expectation of improvement [2]. This suggests a weak or ineffective leadership, unable to bring about real change [2]. The author also alludes to a new “young year candidate” who is being compared to the existing leader, implying a struggle for power and a potential for further instability [2]. The author expresses a lack of confidence in the current leadership’s ability to solve the country’s problems [2].
• Contradictory Policies: The author highlights the contradictory nature of political discourse, noting that while some leaders say they will reduce taxes, they do not follow through [2]. This inconsistency points to a lack of clarity in policy and undermines political stability. The fact that the country’s Prime Minister is expressing “helplessness” due to the “compulsion of circumstances” suggests a fragile political system [2]. There is a sense of political leaders being controlled by outside forces, implying a lack of sovereignty and contributing to instability.
• Regional and Global Instability: The sources also indicate instability beyond the author’s country. The end of dictatorship in Syria suggests a major political shift and potential for instability [3]. The mention of “major changes” in Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan indicates a volatile region [4]. The election of Donald Trump as the new US President is framed as a moment of uncertainty, with high expectations for peace and development, but with the opposition presenting him as their “milji and mawa and rescue mission,” suggesting a wide range of political viewpoints [3].
• Foreign Policy and Hostility: There is a mention of the “incompetence and irresponsible thinking” of policy makers in the author’s country, who are seen as unable to control their hatred towards neighbors like India [3]. The author hopes for “positive changes in foreign policy” and a move away from “India hostility,” which again implies that the current state of affairs is unstable and unsustainable [3].
• Political Comparisons and Contradictions: The author notes how some leaders in their country compare themselves to those in India or the West and then contradict their own arguments, highlighting the political instability and lack of cohesive ideology [2]. The author points out that while some say India has developed by adopting policies similar to those of their country, their own country has not progressed using those same policies [2]. Similarly, some people in their country believe the West has developed by adopting their ideology, even while the author’s country remains undeveloped [2]. This illustrates the lack of clarity in political thought and a contradiction between political rhetoric and reality [2].

In summary, the sources portray a world experiencing significant political instability at various levels. There’s a sense of internal turmoil within the author’s country due to unresolved problems, weak leadership, and contradictory policies. This internal instability is coupled with regional and global shifts that create an overall impression of a politically volatile world.

Global Events and Political Shifts in 2024

The sources discuss a number of significant global events, highlighting both positive changes and ongoing challenges. Here’s a breakdown of these events:

• The Passing of Prominent Figures: The year 2024 is marked by the deaths of two notable individuals: former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former Indian Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh [1]. The text emphasizes the positive legacies of both leaders, particularly Carter’s role as a human rights advocate [1]. The text notes that Man Mohan Singh was admired in Pakistan [1]. These deaths serve as markers of time and significant global events [1].
• Political Change in Syria: The sources note a major shift in Syria, with the end of a half-century-long dictatorship [2]. This is presented as a positive development, bringing hope for a new era [2]. However, the text also suggests a need for caution and verification, as it remains to be seen whether this change will bring lasting positive results [2].
• Shifting Dynamics in the Middle East: The text points to a period of major changes in the Middle East, specifically in Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan [1]. The specific nature of these changes isn’t detailed but they are portrayed as significant. The text also mentions the Middle East generally undergoing a changing situation, suggesting a region in flux [1].
• New US President: The election of Donald Trump as the new US President is a major global event noted in the text [2]. There are high expectations for peace and development associated with his presidency. However, his election is also seen as a point of contention, with the opposition in the author’s country viewing him as a “milji and mawa and rescue mission,” suggesting divided opinions about his potential impact.
• Regional Tensions and Foreign Policy: The text highlights the issue of hostility between the author’s country and India, noting the “incompetence and irresponsible thinking” of policymakers who have failed to control this animosity [2]. There is a hope for “positive changes in our foreign policy” in the new year, which could mean a shift in regional dynamics [2]. The text criticizes the approach of the author’s country in terms of its relationships with its neighbours [2].
• Global comparisons and contradictions: The text describes how some leaders and citizens in the author’s country compare their own country to India or the West. It is noted that some believe the West has developed due to their ideology, even though their own country has not adopted it. Similarly, the text notes the idea that India developed by using policies similar to those of the author’s country, and yet the author’s country has not progressed [3]. This is an example of global comparisons that reveal internal contradictions [3].

In summary, the sources depict a world experiencing significant global events, including the passing of notable leaders, political shifts in the Middle East, and the election of a new US President. There is an emphasis on both positive changes, such as the end of dictatorship in Syria, and ongoing challenges, such as regional conflicts and internal political issues. The text notes a period of flux and change in global affairs, and the author expresses hope for a more stable and prosperous future.

Hope and Realism: A Yearning for Change

The sources express a recurring theme of hope for change, both on a personal and global level, although this hope is often tempered by a sense of realism and past disappointments. Here’s a breakdown of the hope for change as presented in the sources:

• New Year’s Aspirations: The arrival of a new year is consistently linked to the hope for positive change [1]. People wish for the new year to bring success and joy, and they hope to transform the failures of the previous year into successes [1]. This highlights a cyclical pattern of hope and renewal with the passage of time. The author notes making new pleasant hopes for 2025 despite the difficulties of the previous year [1].
• Desire for Personal Improvement: The author expresses a desire to gather as much joy as possible and move away from sorrows [1]. This personal aspiration reflects a broader hope for individual betterment and a more fulfilling life, and is connected to the idea that people live to get rid of sorrows [1]. This personal hope is also evident in the author’s desire to learn the art of living with both sorrows and happiness [1].
• Political and Social Change: There’s a strong hope for improvement in the political and social landscape of the author’s country. The text expresses a desire to move away from issues like poverty, inflation, and unemployment, as well as the “monopoly of extremism,” suggesting a hope for a more just and equitable society [1]. There is a stated wish to see an end to the “public sufferings and deprivations” that have persisted over time [1]. The author notes that the people of their country have been crying after being deprived of deprivation and they hope that the new year can change that [1].
• Expectations for New Leadership: There’s hope that new leaders and policies will bring about positive changes. The text mentions a new “young year candidate” who is being compared to the existing leader, suggesting a potential for change in leadership [2]. There is also a hope that the new five-year plan will bring development, despite skepticism of previous initiatives. The election of a new US President, Donald Trump, is also associated with high expectations for peace and development [3].
• Foreign Policy Changes: The author hopes for a shift away from “India hostility” and for more positive relations with neighboring countries [3]. This hope suggests a desire for a more peaceful and cooperative regional dynamic, indicating a belief that the country’s foreign policy can be improved.
• End to Oppression and Conflict: The end of dictatorship in Syria is presented as a harbinger of change and hope for the future [3]. This event is framed as a chance to stop the “blood of human blood flowing in the Middle East,” reflecting a hope for peace and stability in the region [3]. The text suggests a wish for new “bridges of peace, security, development and prosperity,” indicating a desire for a more positive future for the affected regions [3].
• Hope Tempered by Realism: While the sources express hope for change, there is a recognition that these hopes may not be easily realized. The author notes that “it is not possible to get rid of sorrows,” indicating a sense of realism about the challenges of life [1]. The author also expresses a lack of trust in political promises, highlighting that these hopes must be tempered with a realistic understanding of the political climate [2].

In summary, the sources depict a world where the hope for change is a recurring theme, especially with the arrival of a new year and in response to political shifts. This hope spans personal aspirations, political and social reform, and global dynamics, but is also often tempered by a realistic understanding of the challenges and past disappointments. The sources emphasize a desire for a better future, even while acknowledging the difficulties that stand in the way.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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