How do we judge the wealth of a nation?
We live in times where the banking system is crumbling; where nations are on the brink of being declared bankrupt; where financial gurus speak of inflation and recession in the same breath. In other words we live in economically troubled times.
So amidst all this how do we judge if our nation is wealthy or not?
Do we judge it by the amount owed or held in bank reserves, or by the number of skyscrapers that can be seen across the sunset, or by the land cultivated or left barren, or by our nations manufacturing potential? Or do we simply judge its wealth by the alarming news the media provide to us daily?
In this fast-pace advancing world we live in, all the material things that surround us are transient. Within a blink of any eye we have seen buildings topple down, jobs disappear, currencies lose value, crops disintegrate and national governing bodies crumble to the ground.
So what is it that determines stability, growth and good future for our nation? This question has to be answered in the context of current times where scientific advances, family values, political climate, illiteracy, drug abuse and job security are challenging issues.
The nation that will survive it all is that nation which firstly has people who are intelligent and creative enough to come up with solutions to help the people of country, and secondly, it has people who are able and willing to work and produce something of value.
In this fast-changing and demanding environment, nothing material can be depended on to last. The only security we have is the people of our nation. The people have to be wise and able enough to assess different situations. We have to come up with solutions, that when implemented, will resolve the issues for the greater good of all.
Then you may ask what is the ultimate guarantee of wealth for a person? We know bank balances do not alone make a person happy or wealthy. They might give a temporary sense of security. We have seen pots of money lose value over time and material wealth destroyed in seconds. Therefore relying on material things to define wealth gives a false sense of security.
The important questions to determine one’s own wealth are: Do I have the intelligence to think up ideas and develop detailed plans to help myself and my community? Am I willing to work to implement these plans? Can I produce something of value for another? On these alone depends the guaranteed wealth of an individual. He or she should be able to produce something of value for another and be intelligent enough to bring to fruition bright ideas within a changing environment.
Pakistan, as we see it, has huge potential for wealth. It has able people. There is much suffering and hopelessness around us too. There has never been a greater need than now to demonstrate this wealth, by working together to overcome the problems and issues that plague society.
Human Rights do and will continue to form the foundation of a sane civilisation. We hold in high regard those who take steps to ensure the Human Rights of others. We welcome you to work with us. Volunteer your time and let us work together to make this nation wealthy.
If our country is to rise to greater heights it will be because of the individual taking responsibility. It requires you to play your part in contributing time, money and efforts to bring Human Rights to All. Active groups are needed in every town and village. Join us and let us together create a wealthy nation.