Contributors
Aasem Bakhshi
An Electrical Engineer by profession who always wanted to be a sociologist or a college teacher. Always wishing to be a book-a-day bibliophile, he is seldom successful in prioritizing things in life. He is good at nothing except escapism and meaningless meandering in cyber-sphere. His interests include religion, philosophy and subcontinental studies. Non Skeptical Essays is his personal blog. He is also a co-editor of PTH.
Aisha Fayyazi Sarwari is a new media professional who writes to create awareness of gender related issues in Pakistan
D. Asghar
D. Asghar is a Pakistani American, physically away from Pakistan but mentally always roaming around the Sohni Dharti. A Mortgage Banker by profession, loves to write. To him writing is almost equivalent to breathing.
A writer, blogger and journalist who currently makes his living as a technical writer. He edited several magazines and newsletters, in Pakistan and in the US. Amongst recent publishing credits are “Spider,” Pakistan’s Internet magazine and a cover story for the Siliconeer. He blogs at iFaqeer, WadiWallah, and Rickshaw and contributes extensively at Urdu-ke-Naam; and PakistanFutures.
Dr Ahmed is a professor of political science and a visiting senior research fellow at the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS), National University of Singapore.
In a world beset by internecine violence, this not so angry/young man has chosen to bury himself in the cheesy cultural smorgasbord that is Dubai. Following a lifetime spent mainlining faux western culture, he believes that he is now in a position to comment, from the safety and security of his dubious domicile, on things he knows little or nothing about, including the trials and tribulations of our good-for-taking godforsaken Land Of The Puritanical. He has been known to strut his stuff at mine kampf is your campfire and Poetry in Notion.
He has little to offer the world, save for a few bits of wisdom stolen from jum’a khutbas. In the meantime, Mozaffar is trying to purge himself of the assorted variety of Nifaq-nuggets he keeps finding in his system. Otherwise, he is completing a doctorate in Islamic Intellectual History. Mozaffar’s Moments is the personal blog of this contributor.
A pukka Karachi-ite who blogs on Zindagi-ki-Diary that is a compilation of tales from everyday life while trying to connect the two worlds he is trying to naviagte!
Raza Rumi
A writer and blogger from Lahore, Pakistan: He maintains ahis personal blog Jahane Rumi , edits Pak Tea House and manages Lahore Nama and Development Industry blogzines. He is also a regular writer at the Pakistani weekly Friday Times, a weekly Pakistani publication and contributes to Pakistani publications such as The News, DAWN, and to Himal Southasia. His day job entails working as a policy adviser and development practitioner. As a policy expert, Raza works with international development institutions, government agencies and leading Pakistani NGOs. He is an adviser to an Asia Pacific governance network and also on the editorial board of Journal of Administration and Governance; and contributes to various publications in Pakistan and abroad.
Raza is the founder and chief editor of Pak Tea House.
Raza Habib Raja
RHR is an economist and currently is working for a leading development finance institution. He has been writing regularly for various internet publications including PTH. His interests include Pakistan affairs, reformation of religon and development disciplines. His believes in a tolerant and democratic Pakistan. He is also a co-editor at PTH.
Soniah Kamal is an established creative writer. At college she received the Susan Irene Roberts award for her thesis based on Vikram Seth’s acclaimed ‘A Suitable Boy’. Since then, her short stories have appeared in various literary journals. She blogs at the blogger and Desilit, reviews books at ReadySteadyBook; and publishes a newsletter Peaks ‘n’ Peeves.
Yasser is a lawyer based in Lahore who is interested in writing, blogging and advocacy on the ground. Yasser believes in the secular and democratic vision of the Quaide Azam and strives to join citizens’ movements to fight obscurantism and absolutism. He is a co-editor at PTH.
Zia Ahmad
Zia Ahmad has until now sold his soul to advertising, sitcoms, offshore call centers, and cold, heartless retail chains. Along the way he redeemed himself with an MA in Film from Kingston University. He is prejudicially fond of films, listens to music that radio stations play late at night and has read all of Kurt Vonnegut. Zia is currently stationed in London.
Farahnaz Zahidi Moazzam
Farahnaz Zahidi Moazzam is a freelance writer and editor with a passion for writing. Her focus is human rights, gender issues and reproductive health. She loves blogging, traveling, is a chaai person and a wannabe photographer. Her pet peeve is marginalization on any grounds. She lives in Karachi & blogs here.
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Sunrise at the Arabian Sea, Charna Island
24 Dec 2011
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Working hard to become a human being !
interesting blog, great list of contributors. but where are the ladies?
A great idea! And a list of contributors impressive enough for someone like me to visit the tea house again and again courtesy my desire to have some rich sips of enlightenment about the pakistani political and social scene.
sounds a gr8 idea. keep it up the good work.
emulsification personified!
Good work,my father was a regular visitor of PAK TEA HOUSE since early 1950′s till its closure few years back,and was on the front line for the restoration of PTH.He would love this website.
Dr.Daniyal Nagi
Excellent little digital cafe u guys got going here
how does one contribute to this??
What a nice, variegated, clean, well written blog!
do you guys ever meet up in person…if so, i’d like to meet you…
<——brain draining in lahore
Really nice, I want you all know that I too have a group blog and I Invite you There…Futurebells Dot Com , its all related to Pakistan and Politics.
Nice to know u guys,its great some one do remember
pak tea house!!!!!
a really great effort for the rememberance of our old heritage..pak tea house .lahorites have really lost something which can never be replaced..
I am with you when you say that pakteahouse was our old heritage.But why we like to moan the things soooo much?Why does not somebody replace them.On the first place I never found out why it was abolished?And why it is so impossible to open a new Teahouse anywhere in lahore and make a new tradition.I live in europe and even I think that I shall open the one here when I get a chance.And yes I too have as little resources as all the other people on this website.I mean the noraml mortgage and other small loans that shall be paid in next 15/20 years.I can’t accept the notion that traditions belong to the past and not the present.All of us who are here in the honour of pakteahouse are enough to prove that tradition continues.So let us continue it by opening a new teahouse in Lahore or somewhere else in the world.Continue it by forming literary groups or at least having discussions with the people around us.Is it that difficult.
For me closing of the pakteahouse to literature as It was Benazir’s assasination to Pakistan.
Any effort towards establishing a platform for all those persons who wants to share his thoughts about our society…..our issues,the prejudices and conflicts among the people is welcomed…..Inshallah we will try to take part in such efforts
Following Shahid Masood’s Foot Prints
Politics in Pakistan always has been a game of opportunities like other developing countries in the world where political institutions are still on early stages and lack the ideological directions, but interestingly there are many examples where people were successful in creating opportunities for themselves, a notorious example is former Chairman of NAB, Mr. Saif u Rehman, who played vital role not only bringing down Nawaz Sharif government but also the political process and Rehman Malik, advisor for Interior in present Pakistan government is believed to be latest version of Saif ur Rehman. These so called ‘non-political people get access to political leaders through their brilliant ideas, courage and convection for wellbeing of public, in name of human rights and sacrifices for national interests and sometimes by blackmail through different means including ‘character assassination campaigns’ in name of criticism and free speech until the government through a bone, slowly they gain the confidence of decision makers and then share the powers and themselves become ‘kings’, once in power they would commit such heinous and unprecedented crimes while the actual leaders would bear the responsibility for these jugglers actions.
The latest addition in Pakistani politics is Dr. Shahid Masood, who was successful in winning the post of Chairman Pakistan Television, a state owned TV channel, by his lengthy and twisted political analysis program on a private channel, severely criticizing the government and her policies but was ever ready to accept the top slot on state run TV in the same government, after his appointment, many stories has been surfacing about his lavish spending from public funds and his unlimited desire for luxury and physical pleasure, he was also a strong critic of former dictator Pervez Musharraff and MQM however as soon as he became the Chairman of state TV, he not only accepted a dinner in his honor by MQM governor but on this eve when Pervez Musharraff unexpectedly arrived in the dinner, he was offered the ‘Chief Guests” seat by Shahid Masood, might be Musharraff was no more a dictator if you watch him from lenses of Chairman PTV.
The success story of medical doctor turned political analyst has grown hopes in many other fortune seekers and now many people are switching their professions to become future’s Shahid Masood, the easiest way is to get under civil society’s umbrella, not only criticize the political leadership but run a regular character assassination campaign against them until one is in lime light or taken notice of and government through a bone to keep him busy sucking the juice. Even some people in main stream Pakistani media are actively working on ‘Shahid Masood’ model, they give a colour of news to their personal desires and push themselves in a queue to be noticed by government, waiting for a ‘bone’, it might be a plot in government housing, a scholarship for son or daughter or a government post for themselves. Obviously this is professional dishonesty but as our national media is on its evolutionary stages, such ‘madaris’ are not only pocketing rewards from political rival groups but also gain public affection.
The Shahid Masood ‘syndrome’ is not limited to main stream media but almost in every field in various forms but goals are similar, most of these jugglers forget the fact that Shahid Masood was a close friend of Benazir and Zardari and also played his cards wisely, interesting though now many ‘Bloggers’ are also working on same model, the one who make me surprised is a ….. political analyst and a blogger who took shelter under umbrella of civil society movement and criticized Pervez Musharraff, un-noticed and unsuccessful, he turned his guns towards PPP and its Chairman Asif Ali Zardair and even yet unnoticed and frustrated has openly announced a full scale war against Asif Ali Zardari, above settled ethics of blogging and fair criticism of governments actions Zardari, the mysteriously educated ‘The next step into further character assassination, that the least we can do, is to genuinely question his education’, proudly writes the so called … political analyst, this development is extremely dangerous and may ultimately damage the very political process for which media and civil society has sacrificed a lot, in case such personal agendas are furthered in name of fair criticism.
There can be no second opinion that presents PPP government and Asif Ali Zardari has miserably failed to keep the promise to restore the judges sacked by Musharraff and deviated from the promise of Benazir Bhutto of restoring judiciary, Zardari is also accused of violating the written agreements with Nawaz Sharif, his explanations are vague and unacceptable for every citizen of Pakistan and he deserved to not only be criticized by strongly condemned for this specific inaction, but at the same time, running a so-called character assassination campaign against him or any other political leader seems to be tainted with ulterior motives and dishonest and equally condemnable. Such actions in name of civil society and freedom of speech will tarnish the little left confidence of people on political institutions and when the next dictator takes over public will once again distribute sweets in streets. The civil society and every honest critic of government actions must be aware of such black sheep who are furthering their personal agenda in name of educating people.
After a long dictatorship we have got democratic process back on track, we need to strengthen the political process and built public confidence on political institution while at the same time keep check on political leadership not through organized character assassination campaigns but through fair, honest and reasonable criticism.
Organized character assignation campaigns against politicians as proudly claimed by these jugglers for personal reasons, will only damage the institutions and civil society which is still at incubation stage.
Mirbadshah
Thanks for this long comment. Following the free speech policy we are publishing it with some editing-
Thanks for visiting the PTH.
Good speech…but I think its not the right place….
What a great place to visit. I have had an idea of “Appnaiyat” here atleast. I have been blogging for a few months now and I was unable to find some really good bloggers but I guess now I have found something of great worth.
I myself have been quite perturbed too much for the present condition of Pakistani youth. Although I don’t consider myself too righteous but I do realize that we are going in very wrong direction and running after those things which are of no use. We are a lost nation yet. We yet have to build ourselves which have been mutilated by Britishers for more than 3 centuries and later by countless unworthy politicians. To understand our problems there is no harm in accepting our own flaws. So I think, if I had been blessed with this realization then I should tell other too in at least as little way as I can. I don’t have guns and I am not a politician, all I have is a pen [or a keyboard for that matter]. So I guess I am going to use it in what ever better way I can.
Once again kudos to all those who have started and now maintaining this blog.
Working hard to disgrace Pakistan, bast****
go check the stats of rapes done in USA every 2 sec there is a rape done in USA, what about Indian sex markets what about European sex markets where prostitution is legal.
How many girls you tried to help who are doing prostitution for money ?
Where are the solutions?
I found a great platform to polish my memory and learn to increase knowledge that was going to be fainted cause of unavailability of sound writings with clear words on different aspects; indeed the writers are doing a great job with hard core efforts.
Hats off to you guys.
Embedded with a passion to voice the issues effecting common man every day and put them into the appropiate frame of reality. Having immense desire to enter the field of journalism. well i m based in jeddah just graduated in commerce and i really wish if someone is there to worth my energy, diligence to work and provides me a chance that i may blossom into a journalist. If any one could guide me please let me know my email id: monarahmann@gmail.com
Nice post. I am inviting you to write for our website, pakistandesk.com so that more readers can read your write ups.
We welcome opinions from all sides: the majority, the dissenters, the contrarians.
You can contact us at pakistandesk@gmail.com
“After a long dictatorship we have got democratic process back on track, we need to strengthen the political process and built public confidence on political institution while at the same time keep check on political leadership not through organized character assassination campaigns but through fair, honest and reasonable criticism.”
You must be joking! I’m amazed how Pakistan got through the last 60 yrs. It is a vicious circle… Army then bogus democracy then Army then bogus democracy… been going around in circles for the last 60 yrs.
The Army comes in when Pakistan is on the brink of collapse; initially with good intentions. They try to clean up the politics in Pakistan and in the process become corrupted themselves. The “Kursi” can make a honest man corrupt and a crooked individual even more crooked.
When the Army leaves and civilian government returns under the banner of democracy; all the filth that the Army initially tried to get rid off also returns.
The author talks about Zadari and how he has broken his promises and other stuff. Hello! What did you expect from this character! The guy is a crook! Even the outside world knows that his name used to be Mr. 10%.
As for Nawaz Sharif… he is not fit to lead any political party; his brother is a better politician then him. After returning from Saudi he became blinded by revenge (against Musharraf) and ended up making serious mistakes.
As always the public suffers.
20 yrs down the line; the same stuff will be going on… just like 20 yrs ago the same stuff was going on.
Reports and Photos of Abid Hassan Minto addresses in UK (Bradford, Birmingham, Leicester and London)
————————————————————
It is to inform you that major newspapers coverage and photos of Progressive Intellectual and Politician of Pakistan Abid Hassan Minto’s visit to UK and addresses ad Bradford, Birmingham, Leicester and London are published by the host organisation “South Asian Peoples Forum UK” on a dedicated site for the visit. All reports and photos can be seen on the following:
http://minto.sapfonline.org
Or it can be opened through the main site of the SAPF-UK http://www.sapfonline.org
Best regards
Pervez Fateh
Co-ordinator South Asian Peoples Forum UK
http://www.sapfonline.org info@sapfonline.org
This site can serve a people severely indoctrinated by media wizards by giving the other side of the picture, breaking away from stereotypes, cliches and platitudes. I am tired of the repetitive tape, circulated by media, playing in everyone’s mind. Who said every layman is a political analyst? . There is too much prejudice against individuals and institutions in the country which is not only destroying them but also accelerating the doom scenario. I like to be an optimist and give people benefit of the doubt. Please have mercy on those trying their best to rule us in a situation which was never that bad. Never mind who is responsible. Let us get together and unite to fight the common enemy.
i am still wondering, if the writers and readers did won the case of restoring THE PAK TEA HOUSE.its been quite a long time,that i visited LAHORE(MODEL TOWN)i STILL REMEMBER THE OLD GOOD DAYS OF MY CHILDHOOD,WHEN I USED TO VISIT PAK TEA HOUSE WITH MY FATHER AND BROTHER.i am still absorbed in a feeling of self appriciation-when i realise,how calmly ,i used to sit there(at the age of eight years &onwards.CAN WE DO SOMETHING FOR THIS PLACE ??? A SYMBOL OF SELF PRESTIGE,PATIENCE,LITERARY VALUES & NOBLE MINDS.LETS JOIN HANDS .
keep up nice work
I appreciate the effort of you all guys, plz keep this up, thanks
kool forum Raza…….with all the right ingredients, i must say, and with inputs 4rm all over the broad spectrum,i.e; all the way 4rm infra reds 2 ultra violets……..keep up the outstanding work, v need more forums like this 2 continue 2 encourage healthy writing, discussion & debate, as well as the most important thing missing 4rm our polity…….Agreeing 2 disagree….Salaam Pakistan.
I have been following posts on PTH and find them interesting, intriguing, thought provoking and sometimes heavily biased. Thats freedom of speech and it must continue while keeping one thing in mind – it should serve us right in the long run rather than pleasing someone.
How does one contribute to PTH ?
Write a brilliant, incisive piece, spare no sacred cows, point out an obvious truth that people have been missing out talking about, and send it to the High Command.
If you do work out the formula, let me know.
Though is seems to be dark around, we are clouded by corruption,social unjust and disappointment at all levels. . . ..but there is always an anti climax after every climax. . .pakistan is at the verge of that climax. We are standing at a very critical turning point of the history. . .only a single step may decide our fate. . . .so watch out!! . . .. analyse the situation in a broader spectrum. . .done cant be undone. . .lets work for the better cause for peace and humanity. .. in the inner and outer world. . .
[...] Pak Tea House has already attracted a few regular contributors – Aasem Bakshi, iFaqeer, Muzaffar, Shaheryar Ali and Yasser Nisar in addition to Raza. LINK [...]
Well well! I have very recently got in touch with the PTH. It is a refined medley of intellects and a windown to catharsis of the intelligentia. I am really amused to go through it as a routine practice. Will be pleased to contribute my articles if given a green signal.
Indeed. You have a green signal. Please check the tab ‘contact’ and send me your contribution.
Hello Everyone,
A friend sent me the link to this site today, and I noticed some other familiar names as I scrolled down the list of contributors. This seems like a great place to converse, share and stay updated on issues about Pakistan.
…glad to have stopped by!
there is such a thing as sense of humour and in that scent i think that the PTH is lavish (and dotting!) on sympathy but its tea needs some equitable crossing,
My computer had been with a repair shop for several months; it secured a new leash on life yesterday which releases new lease of realization. One thing that must be straightaway opined/\hear (d) and now is that in Pakistan there is no leading law firm in existence. plenty of lead does not make anyone Leading. For thAT one must steady at Air University, Leads University, Virtual University, Superior university, or Lawhore College for Wo/men Unniversity and then prey for Syyed Iqbal Geoffrey University for Art Criticism.
ARE YOU AS A MUSLIM CERTAIN ABOUT YOUR SALVATION?
Subject: FW: THE SOURCE OF OUR JOY AS BELIEVERS IN JESUS CHRIST AND HOW TO HANDLE ADVERSITY
Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:20:53 +0000
Most people think that if heaven exists they will automatically be welcomed in. But many will be disapointed and yet surprised to learn that admission is by invitation only, an invitation that cannot be bought or earned, simply accepted.
The whole human race falls into two types of people: Sinners going to Heaven and sinners going to hell. When it comes to behaviour we are all the same, ‘For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God’-that my friend includes you and me! The difference between these two categories is very simple and yet quite profound. The person going to heaven trusts God, whereas the person going to hell refuses to. A failure to trust God separates people from their Creator, beginning with Adam & Eve and continuing with the whole human race. If that’s your position, you will feel it on the inside; a continual feeling of emptiness, a God-shaped hole.
So what’s the solution? Well, if failure to believe what God says alienates us from Him, believing what He says restores our relationship. A person who trusts God demonstrates that trust by accepting Jesus Christ as their Saviour, for God makes it very clear that ”there is no other name under heaven by which men must be saved.”
Trusting God begins by agreeing that what He says is true. Ask Jesus to save you and He will. It’s that simple. God invites you to exercise trust in Him today. If you will, your life will never be the same!
And that is Food For Thought for you my dear brothers.
THE SOURCE OF OUR STRENGTH AND JOY AS BELIEVERS IN JESUS CHRIST AND HOW TO HANDLE ADVERSITY
——————————————————————————–
The sudden sting of disappointment — we all know the feeling. Life appears to be going well; then with little or no warning, adversity strikes. Our hearts are challenged to be strong and believe in what seems to be impossible at the moment.
Shock comes as a protector, numbing us to the immediate impact of reality. We wait for someone to shake us and tell us that what we have heard is a cruel joke or simply not true. Finally, we are forced to face our circumstances and the fact that adversity has struck. We may be tempted to think that God has left us alone to sort through the aftermath of the storm. We wonder: “He is God; couldn’t He have stopped this from happening?”
Whenever adversity comes, remember God is in it with you. He has promised never to leave or abandon you. (Hebrews 13:5b) When trials impact your life, God is standing beside you. When news of a loved one’s death reaches your ears, God has the foreknowledge of its coming. The psalmist writes: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea” (Psalm 46:1-2).
Adversity was born at the fall of man, and it will remain until God establishes a new heaven and earth. Because of this, it is important for us to understand that God is not the author of pain or suffering. We live with the natural consequences of our fallen state. But it is equally important for us to realize that God has a plan and purpose for the pain we suffer. It is in this very atmosphere that He brings victory over heartache, discouragement, and the deepest depression. Jesus has eternal power over sin, fear, and death. Satan’s poor attempt to disrupt and discourage God’s people becomes a wasted effort when we stand firm in our faith and trust God to do the impossible. In fact, this is the advantage of adversity: learning to trust God to do what we cannot do for ourselves. Therefore, in times of heartache, your greatest challenge is to remain faithfully focused on God and not your circumstances.
He allows adversity to touch our lives, and Peter tells us it is to refine our faith: “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6-7).
The sudden death of a loved one, the disappointment that comes with the loss of a job, an unexpected failure, feelings of rejection, and more, all represent the many faces of adversity. None of us is immune to adversity’s attacks, and no one enjoys its company. However, as believers we are NOT left defenseless and weak. We have a strong Advocate (1 John 2:1) who comes to our aid and stands ready to protect and defend us.
In Psalm 18, King David exalts God’s ability to provide victorious strength: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. . . . In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried to my God for help; He heard my voice . . . and my cry for help before Him came into His ears” (v. 2-3; 6).
The moment adversity comes, our vulnerability increases, and we wonder where God is. Pain, disappointment, and trial drive us to the Lord and to the Cross where we discover our personal need for a Savior, not just for our soul’s salvation but for the entire span of life. We are struck with a defining thought: We need God. We need His fellowship and His presence or we will collapse.
An older saint helps us understand the principle of adversity as he writes, “Sometimes God sends severe blasts of trial upon His children to develop their graces. Just as torches burn most brightly when swung to and fro; just as the juniper plant smells sweetest when flung into the flames; so the richest qualities of a Christian often come out under the north wind of suffering and adversity. Bruised hearts often emit the fragrance that God loveth to smell.”
What is God’s goal in adversity? His basic objective is to draw us closer to Himself. He does not initiate pain or sorrow, but He uses these to teach us about His love and faithfulness.
Later, there will be time enough to ask God to show you what you can learn from the pain you have suffered. God always has something in mind when He allows us to face difficulty. He has a plan, a purpose, and a goal not just for this situation alone but for your entire life. In times of difficulty, God is your immovable strength. (Proverbs 18:10)
What are you to do when adversity strikes? In the book of Hebrews, God encourages us by saying, “Do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised” (10:35-36).
When adversity strikes, the first thing we should do is to turn to God. The second step is to affirm our commitment to Him that we will remain focused on Him and not on our circumstances. We see both of these portrayed in the lives of the men and women of the Bible.
Joseph’s life is a study of faith, trust, and victory amid adversity. As a young man, he learned how God could take the cruelest act and turn it into a wondrous blessing. Sold into Egyptian bondage by his brothers, Joseph spent years bound and confined to a life of slavery. Even when it appeared that he would gain a reprieve from danger and heartache, adversity struck a second time as he was accused of something he did not do. Back to the dungeon he went, only this time with a stiffer sentence.
People often ask, “What is the quickest way through seasons of adversity?” Many times there just is not a quick solution to the trials we face. However, there is one sure way through the difficulties of life and that is through obedience and surrender of selfish feelings and desires.
Adversity has a way of pushing us beyond ourselves where we find God waiting to gather us in His arms. It also stirs us to pray like nothing else can. And it is in prayer that we find shelter from the storms of life. Held under the canopy of God’s presence, we discover a sense of security and hope that we thought had evaded us.
We tend to think, “Poor Joseph.” But Joseph was rich in God’s presence. He understood the principle involved in adversity and knew that God had something wonderful in mind for his life. Never forget that God knows the future. He understands the advantage of adversity and how it can be used to strengthen your faith, refine your hope, and settle your heart into a place of contentment and trust. Without times of adversity, you would miss the powerful experience of God walking with you through the valley times of life.
Adversity was a tool in Joseph’s life. God used it to shape his servant for service. Joseph was placed in a key leadership role that ultimately led to the preservation of the nation of Israel. Had he escaped from prison and gone into hiding, the entire nation of Israel would have missed God’s blessing. And without the training that came as a result of severe disappointment, Joseph may have become proud and self-reliant. Instead, God used this young man’s life to change the course of history.
There is another aspect of adversity that God wants us to understand and that is that all adversity is limited. God will not take you beyond what you can bear. (1 Corinthians 10:13) Even when it seems emotionally and spiritually dark, He will be your very light. You can be sure that God will use the trials you face to shape your life so that you reflect His love and care to others.
Therefore, be determined to keep the focus of your heart on Jesus. Don’t be swayed by the negative talk of others. Stay close to the Lord in devotion and prayer. Read His Word; He will guide you through the greatest difficulty, and then you will know what it means to live in a broad place of blessing
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Are you, or someone you love, experiencing hardship at this very moment? As unforeseen trials enter our lives, it is easy to stop and wonder why God does not tell us ahead of time that rough waters are ahead.
Isaiah 55:8 explains that God’s thoughts are not our thoughts, and neither are His ways our ways. Therefore, we can presume that in His infinite love and wisdom, God has chosen not to explain to us many of the mysteries of life. Once in a while, He may give us a signal about something that is going to take place, but most of the time He doesn’t.
It is vitally important that you and I are continually growing in our Christian life so that whenever trials come our way, we’ll be ready for them. Most importantly, when we find ourselves in a situation over which we have no control, we must know where to turn, and that is to our heavenly Father. In Him is the strength we need to endure, survive, and triumph over the most difficult circumstances in life.
The apostle Paul was intimately familiar with enduring great hardships and being pushed to the limits of his strength. In his second letter to the Corinthians, he reminds his fellow believers of the hurt and suffering he endured. “For we do not want you to be unaware, brethren, of our affliction . . . that we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life; indeed we had the sentence of death within ourselves in order that we should not trust ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; who delivered us from so great a peril of death” (2 Corinthians 1:8-9).
As Paul so wisely points out, each of us will be faced with trials in life that require strength beyond our human capacity. When these situations arise, we have a choice to make: we can turn inward and direct our frustration and anger toward God, or we can reach out to Him for help. How we respond to trying circumstances is a measure of our faith and maturity in Jesus Christ.
Yet, as you look at your current situation, you may be thinking, “But I just can’t take it anymore.” Perhaps another person has wronged you again and again. Maybe you are in a work environment that is filled with temptation, or a living situation in which you are constantly criticized. Your personal trial may involve something even greater, such as physical illness or the loss of a loved one.
Should we just check out and run away because we don’t have the strength to endure these things? The answer, my friend, is no. After all, the apostle Paul could have said, “God, everywhere I turn there is conflict. I’m in constant danger. If You want me to preach the Gospel, either correct this situation or I am giving up.”
There is a basic principle for walking through life’s difficulties. Even though there will be valleys and moments of discouragement, we must relinquish “our way” and submit to God’s way, which is the only way to survive and endure without losing our peace and joy.
The Giver of Strength
When you begin to trust God in your times of need, you will soon discover that there is divine strength available to you. It expresses itself intellectually, morally, physically, and spiritually, and arises at the moment it is needed to allow you to face and overcome your obstacles. This is the strength that the apostle Paul experienced over and over again. It is the power that is available to every child of God but only through total reliance upon Him.
The tragedies of our lives can be transformed into triumphs through the source of this strength–the person of Jesus Christ. When we, by faith, received Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, He came to dwell within us in the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Essentially, all the strength to survive, the power to endure, and the ability to overcome are already abiding in you in the very presence of Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. Therefore, God doesn’t have to send something down from heaven to enable you to face your trials. His greatest gift is already in your possession. Your responsibility is to trust Him, listen to Him, and live in obedience to Him.
Why did God send the Holy Spirit to dwell within us? Because He understood our weaknesses and frailties. He knew that we could not survive on our own. For example, Jesus knew that the disciples would face great trials and tribulations relating to His death. He even knew that they would deny and betray him. Realizing the things that were to come, He told His devoted followers, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18).
Jesus’ promise involved the sending of a Helper, part of Himself, to remain with them so that they would never be alone. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you” (John 14:26).
And this promise was fulfilled when Jesus ascended to heaven. God sent the Holy Spirit so that from that moment on, every believer could be in constant communion and fellowship with Him. He indwelt in every believer enough strength and power to enable us to face every circumstance of life.
A Purpose for Our Trials
While it is comforting to know that we are not alone during our trials, many believers become confused about why we must experience hardships at all. What is their purpose in our lives? The answer can be found in Philippians 4:13, where Paul makes a familiar statement that is often quoted, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
Do you know how Paul learned the value of this statement? The discovery came through experiencing trials and being thrown into impossible situations. Therefore, we can discern a primary purpose for hardship: not until we have experienced trials firsthand, can we understand the adequacy of Christ in our lives. We can read about tragedies in the lives of others, and we can witness terrible acts on television, yet until we are in need of God’s grace and mercy, we will never understand their worth.
How can you be assured of God’s strength? Surprisingly, the answer lies in weakness–the opposite of strength. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 Paul shares a great revelation regarding his own weaknesses, “Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”
What does all this mean? Friend, it means that when we are weak, when you and I are at the end of our ropes, we can exchange our weaknesses for the glory of God’s strength. It means that to the degree you are willing to be weak, to that same degree you are willing to experience strength.
To the world this makes no sense at all. Why would someone desire to be weak? All of the messages around us say, “be strong, be beautiful, be rich” but God says, “Be poor in spirit, full of weakness and humility.” (Matthew 5:3) He says this so that you will be able to experience and understand the strength that is available to you through Him.
When you and I learn that it is in our weakest moments–when we cannot help ourselves, when we feel out of control–that God can step in and be free to do His greatest work in empowering and strengthening us, our trust in Him will begin to increase. We will realize that these are the times in which we become the most equipped and enabled to endure the toughest trials and tribulations of our lives.
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Keep adding value to the world and do not take these stupid fascist detractors among Hindus and Muslims seriously. They are enough to screw their own selves up!
i liked being here seriously … a frnd told me abt it and i am happy to see what u guys have got going on in here… nice job we need more of this in Pakistan… u guys must publicize. we need more people to talk in pakistan u know …
Please read this and either prove it wrong or accept that creation of Fraudistan
Was a British conspiracy.
The British Concept of Pakistan:
The above schemes were being hatched by the Muslims. The final decision rested with the British. When the British saw that their objectives could not be met by the schemes presented by Sikander Hayat Khan or the Muslim League Working Committee, they unilaterally rejected all the proposals submitted by the Muslims. Chaudhry Zafarullah, a member of the Viceroy’s Executive Council, was asked to submit a map of two dominions. On that subject, on 12 March 1940, Viceroy Lord Linlithgow wrote to the Secretary of Stale for India:
Upon my instruction Zafarullah wrote a memorandum on the subject. Two Dominion States. I have already sent it to your attention. I have also asked him for further clarification, which, he says, is forthcoming. He is anxious, however, that no one should find out that he has prepared this plan. He has, however, given me the right to do with it what I like, including sending a copy to you. Copies have been passed on to Jinnah, and, I think, to Sir Akbar Hydari. While he, Zafarullah, cannot admit its authorship, his document has been prepared for adoption by the Muslim League with a view to giving it the fullest publicity.
The Viceroy explains this further. Since Zafarullah was a Qadiani he had to be cautious. The Muslims would become irritated if they found that this scheme was prepared by a Qadiani. The Viceroy said that Jinnah had been given a copy to make the Muslim League adopt it and publicise its contents. Sir Akbar was given a copy because he was responsible for fund raising. The dates take on a special significance. The Viceroy’ s letter to the Secretary of State was written on 12 March 1940.
Now afterwards Jinnah secret British Agent arranged a meeting on 23rd March 1940 to ratify British Plan to create Pakistan.The creation of Pakistan was meant to DEPORT MILLIONS of muslims fromIndia on the
Same pattern of KICK OUT OF MUSLIMS from Spain. The other hidden objective was to create a BUFFER state to fight Russia, this finally happened in 1979 and Millions of innocent muslims were killed again and again from 1947 to 1971 to 1979 over 4 Millions muslims got killed
Please comment do research and accept the TRUTH
I wonder why Ishtiaq Ahmed hasn’t written anything on PTH recently. Is he hiding somewhere???
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THE FIGHT NEEDS SOME BITE.
‘Can we ball’ the needful-elite!
Carnival on-the-anvil!!
just calculate how many misprints and typos are there in the above text.
clue: no typos, no misprints or slips.
ایک بیٹی کی فریاد
ہے کوئی محمد بن قاسم جو ہماری مدد کر سکے
میں ایک نہم جماعت کی طالبہ اور سینئر جرنلسٹ ایم اقبال انجم کی چھوٹی بیٹی ہوں جس کی میٹرک کی طالبہ بہن گزشتہ سال اللہ کو پیاری ہوگئی اور میرے داداابو دادی امی اور ایک چچا جانی بھی گزشتہ سال اللہ کو پیارے ہوگئے ہیں میرے ابوہی ہمارا واحد سہارا ہیں میرا کوئی بھائی نہ ہے میرے ابو نے انپی صحافتی سروس کے دوران ہمیشہ حق وسچ لکھا اور بولا شائع کرایا ہے انہوں نے ہمیشہ مظلوموں کا ساتھ دیا ہے میں خود بھی اپنے ابو سے صحافت سیکھ رہی ہوں میرے ابو ایم اقبال انجم نے منڈی یزمان میں اپنا میڈیا سیل قائم کیا اور وہاں پر ایمانداری سے مظلوں کا ساتھ دیتے ہوئے کرپٹ مافیاء اور انتظامیہ کے خلاف حقائق پر مبنی رپورٹنگ کی اس دوران ہی ہیڈ راجکاں کے چک نمبر36 DNB
میں ایک پانچویں جماعت کی طالبہ کے ساتھ اجتماعی زیادتی کا وقوعہ ہا جسے میرے ابو نے بین الااقوامی میڈیا پر شائع کرایا وہاں کے بااثر چوہدری اور دو نام ونہاد صحافی اسلم بھٹی اور عبیدللہ شدید مخالف ہوگئے میرے ابو نے دو سکھ جعلی حکیموں کے بارے میں بھی لکھا جن کی انکوائریاں ہورہی تھیں کے ڈی ایس پی عزیز اللہ خان سے مافیاء نے ساز باز کر لی اور ڈی ایس پی نے ہمارے گھر پر ریڈ کرادیا اور میرے ابو جانی کو گرفتار کرلیا گیا پولیس نے مجھے اور میری امی کو بھی تشدد کا نشانہ بنایا ہمیں زلیل و ورسوا کردیا دوسری بار پولیس کی بھاری نفری نے ہمارے گھر کے تالے توڑے اور میرا جہیز سونے کے زیورات نقدی ویڈیو کیمرے لاکھوں روپئے کا سامان لوٹ لیا اور میرے ابو پر جھوٹے بے بنیاد مقدمات بنادئے گئے جسے سات روز بعد عدالت نے رہائی دلائی اس دوران ہی اسلم بھٹی عبدللہ اور پولیس نے میرے ابو پر فائرنگ کردی جس سے وہ بال بال بچ گئے ہمیں یزمان چھوڑنے کا حکم دیا گیا ڈی ایس پی نے ہمیں حراساں کیا اور پولیس غنڈوں کے ذریعہ ہمیں یرغمال بنا دیا گیا ہمارے اوپر پہرے بٹھا دیئے گئےکسی کو بھی ملنے ملانے سے روک دیا گیا اور میرے ابو کو دھمکی دی گئی کہ یزمان نہ چھوڑا تو جان سے مار دیں گے میرے ابو نے ہمیں رات کو یزمان نکالا اور ہم نقل مکانی کر کے اسرانی خیرپورٹامیوالی آگئے اب بھی پولیس اور غنڈے ہمیں حراساں کر رہے ہیں ہماری جان کو شدید خطرات لاحق ہیں پولیس نے ڈکیٹی کر کے ہمارا سب کچھ لوٹ لیا ہے میں ایک طالبہ ہوں میرا تعلیمی کیرئیر تباہ کردیا گیا ہے ہم اپنی عزت بچا کر روپوش ہوچکے ہیں ظالم درندے ہماری تلاش میں ہیں پاکستان اور بہاولپور سمیت بین الاقوامی میڈیا نے ہمارے واقعہ پر لکھا ہے اور مزمت کی ہے مگر پولیس سٹیٹ ہونے کے ناطے ملزمان کو ہر قسم کی پشت پناہی حاصل ہے ان کے خلاف کاروائی نہ ہونا ایک حیران کن بات ہے میں میڈیا کے سامنے آکر اپنا بیان ریکارڈ کرانا چاہتی ہوں ہماری مالی پوزیشن کمزور ہوچکی ہے گھر میں فاقے ہیں ہم پاکستان کے اندر بے گھر اور عدم تحفظ کا شکار ہیں یہاں پر جنگل کا قانون ہے میرے ابو جو ہمیشہ حق وسچ لکھنے والے ہیں مایوسی کا شکار ہیں آج پھر سے ایک بیٹی محمد بن قاسم کی تلاش میں ہے ہے کوئی جو ہماری مدد کرسکے اور ہمیں انصاف دلاسکے کیا اس بھری دنیا میں ایک کھرے اور سچے صحافی کو انصاف نہ مل سکے گا اگر ایسا ہوا تو قیامت کے روز میں ایک بیٹی آپ سب سے جواب مانگنے کا حق رکھتی ہوں اورخدا کے دربار میں اللہ تعالیٰ سے کہوں گی کہ میں سب کو پکارا اور اپنی فریاد کی مگر کسی نے بھی میری فریاد پر میری مدد نہ کی ہے ہم حسینی ہیں اور حسینت کی راہ پر چلتے ہوئے یزدیوں سے ہار نہیں مانیں گے چاہے ہماری جان ہی کیوں نہ چلی جائے فقط مظلوم بیٹی رفعت انجم
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Indeed a very interested place to read happenings!