To Patriotism

‎”Though Afridi couldn’t win the world cup, for 30 days he made this country into a nation” – Ramiz Raja.

That is probably one of the greatest remarks by a still greater man. His commentary lead us through the season with so much hope and passion. And here he says in few words, what every Pakistani wants to say to the Team that bought a small speckle of life into this once dead country.

It looms in front of my eyes like only few hours ago. The mother of all matches played in Mohali. Pakistan vs India, semi-final of ICC 2011. It was all over the media, that being the understatement. Every living human being was talking about it, whether or not they were into cricket. The pressure was building, and hands were raised to pray for a much hoped-for victory. I knew people who prayed for it more then they had ever prayed in their lives. It was like everyone had forgetten their differences and negativities to cheer on the Team that would finally bring that beacon of happiness that was so needed. Those are the things that will forever remain etched in my mind.

To be honest, i never really knew what patriotism was all about. Born and raised in Abu Dhabi, I always wondered why people were so proud to be called a part of their country. The only thing that connected me to this country was the question "Where are you from?". No idea what it all meant to be a Pakistani. Never knew i had it in me. But now, its different. Having lived in Karachi for 4 years now, I understand the worth of freedom. And this years cricket season changed me.

WE lost. But we didnt lose heart. A couple of years ago i wouldnt have cared how far our team went. This time, i knew how much this country needed it. Right now, Pakistan is all about suicide bombings, shootings, poverty and bad government decisions. Every corner is filled with distressed Pakistanis fighting for justice, for freedom, for voice. Not just in the country, but every part of the world. This win could have bought a smile to their faces, to have them remember that yes there is more to life then struggling. This wasn't just a match, it was more than that!

So Hats off,
      to that Team that took us far beyong our expectations, beating the most toughest of players on the scene,
      to the best captain that we have had in our history of amazing captains, Shahid Afridi your humbleness and true nature wins us all,
      and to the one country that set aside their differences to become one heart, one soul, one nation.

To Pakistan, we breathe by you.