Democracy: No Country for innocent

In the vast expanse of global politics, democracies are often celebrated for their ability to give voice to the people. Every citizen has the right to vote and play a role in determining the course of their nation. However, with this privilege comes a certain responsibility. The premise of democracy suggests that no one can truly be called "innocent," save for children who have yet to exercise their voting rights. Every citizen, by the very act of voting, becomes accountable for the decisions of their government. I would like to examine this premise, particularly in post-wars, where one party is labelled 'innocent' and another 'militant', drawing upon events from the past 30 years.

Shared Responsibility in Democracies: The Case of the 2003 Iraq War

The beauty of a democratic system is that it is driven by the will of its citizens. For instance, the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 was a decision made by the Bush administration, backed by significant public support at the time. As the war progressed and the initial reasons for the invasion were questioned, many Americans expressed regret or opposition. Yet, the initial support played a role in legitimizing the government's decision.

Post-war Narratives: The Yugoslav Wars and Shared Accountability

In the aftermath of wars, particularly those involving multiple factions or internal conflicts, narratives paint one party as the innocent victim and another as the militant aggressor. The Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, involving several democratic nations, showcased how intricate and layered such narratives can be. While there were clear instances of aggression, such as the Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia, labelling one side as wholly innocent becomes problematic. Citizens of the various republics, through their nationalistic fervour or passive acceptance, played roles in the trajectory of the conflict.

The Arab Spring and the Voice of the People

The Arab Spring, which began in 2010, is another testament to the power of the people in shaping their nations' futures. In countries like Egypt and Tunisia, mass protests led to the overthrow of long-standing regimes. However, the aftermath, especially in Egypt with the rise and fall of the Muslim Brotherhood, showcased how democratic decisions have lasting consequences that every citizen shares responsibility for.

Children: The Only True Innocents in the Syrian Civil War

The Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, has had devastating consequences for its population, especially children. While global powers and regional players have taken sides, leading to a complex web of alliances and enmities, innocent victims have been the children. They bear no responsibility for the actions of their government or the rebel factions, yet they have suffered the most.

The events of the past 30 years, from the Iraq War to the Syrian Civil War, underscore the immense power and responsibility that comes with the right to vote in a democracy. Every ballot cast has far-reaching implications, shaping the course of nations and the lives of their citizens. As stewards of democracy, we must recognize the weight of our choices and the shared accountability they bring. The power of the vote is not just a right; it's a duty defining the essence of democratic governance.

Life: It's All About Wanting Something

In the simplest terms, life revolves around our desires. From our earliest memories to our golden years, we're constantly yearning for something - a concept that influences our personal narrative and individual growth.

Each of us has unique dreams and aspirations. These could range from a promising career to a loving companion or inner tranquillity. Our desires become our compass, steering our decisions, moulding our lives, and creating unique experiences.

But life isn't a straight path. It’s filled with obstacles and detours. These hurdles could be external - lost opportunities or competitors, or internal - our insecurities and fears. Despite the challenges, this very pursuit, the roller coaster of victories and losses, breathes life into our existence.

The critical point is that we can sometimes get lost in the maze of others' wants and achievements. It's easy to confuse what others desire or possess with what we truly need or want. Their unique wants influence each person's path, and what works for one may not work for another. We must strive to identify and pursue our desires rather than being swayed by the aspirations of others.

Life also surprises us, presenting us with unexpected gifts. Sometimes, we end up cherishing things we never asked for. These surprises often become the most enriching parts of our journey, teaching us valuable lessons about ourselves and the world.

In essence, life is a pursuit of our wants - the ones we attain, the ones we miss, and the ones we unexpectedly discover. This constant chase crafts our unique life story and makes our journey worth the ride.

America - Land of dreams?

The tragic loss of a young girl from Hyderabad in a recent Dallas mass shooting sent shockwaves through my heart. I recall walking through that mall with my wife and daughter and realising that such a horrendous event could happen in a place we once considered safe beyond comprehension. The chilling truth is that these tragedies can now occur anywhere in the US, leaving an indelible mark on our collective psyche.

A few years ago, on a routine flight from New York to Dallas, I conversed with a fellow traveller about the deeply ingrained gun culture in the United States. He fervently advocated for the Second Amendment and argued, "Why do we only focus on banning guns? Knives can be just as lethal!" I countered by asking, "If guns are acceptable, why not allow people to own tanks and bombs for self-defence too?" Recollecting the conversation today highlights the intense polarisation surrounding gun control in the US, emphasising the need for a more refined perspective on balancing personal freedoms with public safety concerns.

Even though it is a sad observation, In recent years, the United States has experienced a significant shift from being the land of dreams and limitless opportunities to a nation grappling with a growing epidemic of mass shootings. There have been at least 198 mass shootings in the United States in 2023 alone. The hopeful beacon that once attracted people worldwide now casts a dark, foreboding shadow, reflecting a country plagued by fear and uncertainty.

America's transformation into the land of mass shootings is a multifaceted tale, encompassing cultural, political, and economic elements that have contributed to a climate where firearms are easily accessible. At the core of this issue lies the Second Amendment, which enshrines the right to bear arms.

Originally designed to protect citizens' rights to defend themselves and their property, the Second Amendment's context has drastically changed. The emergence of advanced weaponry and its ease of acquisition have led to a volatile environment primed for violence. This precarious situation has fueled the proliferation of mass shootings, turning the land of dreams into a living nightmare.

Numerous high-profile atrocities mark the harrowing journey from dreams to mass shootings. Schools, offices, concerts, and shopping centres have all been targeted by individuals wielding firearms, transforming once-secure environments into potential battlegrounds. These horrific incidents have shaken the nation, igniting grief, anger, and contentious debates about the role of guns in American society.

Despite the recurring nature of these tragedies and the ensuing public outcry, the US has made little headway in addressing gun violence. The conversation invariably devolves into a bitter blame game, with gun control proponents and opponents refusing to compromise. Consequently, the nation remains deadlocked, and the death toll continues to mount.

This stark contrast between the dream-filled America of yesteryear and today's violence-ridden landscape raises critical questions about national values and priorities. How did a country synonymous with hope and freedom transform into a hotbed of senseless violence? And can we restore the land of dreams without infringing upon citizens' rights?

Addressing these challenging questions requires confronting American society's and culture's complexities and examining firearms' role in shaping national identity. To forge a new path and regain the mantle of the land of dreams, the US must engage in candid, empathetic dialogue about gun violence and the Second Amendment. Only through meaningful change can the nation heal and move forward.

The transition from the land of dreams to one plagued by mass shootings serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of inaction and the importance of collective responsibility. America must learn from its past to prevent this tragic narrative from becoming a permanent fixture of its national identity. The choice is clear: continue down the path of violence and fear, or reclaim the land of dreams and restore hope for future generations.

The Dynamic Duo: My Wife, My Daughter, and Our Hilarious Household Adventures

I must admit that, as a man with two women in my life—my wife and my daughter—life can occasionally feel like a sitcom. Tears, laughter, and a few quirks that only a family like ours could go through fill the house. So take some popcorn, and let me entertain you with tales of lengthy shopping trips, frequent bathroom stops, cosmetic puzzles, fashion successes, and the sporadic feminist awakening.

Imagine this:

• The sun is bright.

• The birds are chirping.

• My wife and daughter announce they are going on a "quick" shopping excursion on a Saturday morning.

I've had to learn the hard way that "quick" means at least three hours in their dictionary, with any luck. It appears they have undertaken a covert mission to independently investigate and evaluate each item in the mall. I've even pondered penning "Lost in the Aisles: A Tale of Endurance and Perseverance" as a survival manual for fathers and husbands.

Road trips, ah. The open road, breathtaking landscape, and... toilet breaks every half an hour? In fact, my wife and daughter have perfected the "urgent" pit stop. They have an internal GPS that will let them know where the closest rest station is, no matter how far away. But I must say, our travels have introduced us to some charming wayside eateries and attractions. Fortunately, my buddies.

Let's now discuss cosmetics. Because of the mini-Sephora that our bathroom has become, I cannot keep up with the rapidly changing makeup industry. Contouring? Baking? No, we're not talking about culinary arts; these, it seems, are makeup procedures. Their love-hate relationship with cosmetics is like riding a roller coaster; one day, they may find the ideal lipstick hue, but the next, they may be devastated by a discontinued item. What am I to do? While silently doubting whether I'll ever recover control of my bathroom counter, I nod and offer soothing words of support.

Our home has evolved into a runway for my wife and daughter's most recent wardrobe additions, proving that fashion displays are not just limited to the runways. As a devoted husband and father, I am honoured to give my "stamp of approval" on their clothing selections. I've realized that a simple "you look great" won't do. No, no. I have to pay close attention, appreciate the intricate details of the outfit, and provide just the appropriate amount of praise to appease their fashion-obsessed souls.

Amidst these fashion exhibitions lies the ongoing battle between my first-generation (fast-becoming) British daughter and her more traditional mother. The struggle is real, my friends when it comes to mini skirts. My daughter, a modern young woman embracing her freedom of expression, finds herself clashing with her mother, who lovingly tries to preserve a sense of modesty and cultural heritage. As the peacekeeping patriarch, I see myself walking the tightrope between these two powerful forces, offering diplomatic solutions to bridge the generational and cultural gap. I remind them that it's not about the length of the skirt but about the love and respect we have for each other's perspectives and that, ultimately, family unity will always be the most fashionable choice.

Let's finally talk about the feminist fires that occasionally erupt in our house. My wife and daughter fervently believe in gender equality and are fiercely independent. I agree with their viewpoints, yet I've been surprised by a few unplanned discussions about patriarchy during what I thought was a lighthearted dinner chat. These occasional outbursts of feminism remind me how fortunate I am to live with two strong, bright women who push me to improve.

So there you have it—a peep at my dynamic duo—my wife and daughter—and their daily lives. We navigate our days with love, fun, and a good dose of humour through shopping misadventures, never-ending bathroom breaks, cosmetic disarray, fashion approvals, and feminist fervour. You fathers and spouses should value the women in your lives and never forget that being outnumbered never makes life dull!

Folks, the drama doesn't end there. When we watch movies together, my wife and daughter frequently cry and become emotional rollercoasters. As much as the next guy, I enjoy a good tearjerker, but these two take it to a new level. Tissues? Check. ?Comfort food? Check. Flood warnings? Double-check. It's like the emotional Olympics being held in our living room, with me as the official referee. It's up to me to resolve conflicts in our home theatre when they inevitably emerge over what movie to watch or which part was the most heartbreaking. I assure you that you need the patience of a saint and the diplomacy of a seasoned negotiator to navigate the sea of emotions and opinions. But in the end, when we're snuggled on the couch, exchanging smiles, tears, and priceless family moments, it's all worth it.

Happy Sad

Should I be happy that I am flying business class 

or should  I be sad that I am not attending the music performance of my daughter's class

Should I be happy that I make enough money to go anywhere and eat 

or should I be sad that my body has said no to eating sweet 

Should I be happy that I have a big house in the bay

or should I be sad that my parents are thousands of miles away 

Should I be happy to hear my daughter’s english talk 

or should I be sad that she will never witness my village’s dusty walk 

Should I be happy that I can talk to my parents on Facetime 

or should I be sad I don’t know how they feel during downtime 

Should I be happy that I drive a fancy car 

or should I feel sad that it still can’t take me to people who are far

Should I be happy that people say I am exceptional at my job 

or should I be sad that i know deep down I am no different than the rest of the mob

Into Thin Air

"Researchers have found a potentially habitable planet, located just 16 light years away". This is the headline today and it triggered a chain of thoughts in my head about how far have we reached with our mind.

We are thinking of maybe living in a planet 16 light years away. I mean, 16 years to reach there if we were to travel by the speed of light (which Einstein said was never possible) and yet, we cannot figure out how MH370 has vanished, in to thin air.

This has by a long distance been the mystery of the times times we live in. An airplane from Malaysia to China disappears and with all the technology we have, we have not found a trace of it for over 100 days and still counting. Why? How? is this possible?

Entire world has come together to find out the truth. Un precedented help has poured in from every corner of the world, putting together the best minds and most advanced equipment known. The search continues and there are very few answers.

Multiple conspiracy theories have been put forth by different people 

• Highjacking
• Shot down by military
• Cyber attack
• Black hole theories
• Bermuda Triangle

and many more will continue to be discussed as everyday goes by without answers.

One thing that comes out clearly during this entire episode is the fact that we still don't have enough answers within our planet. The vastness of this planet still surprises us and will continue to do so, for many many years to come, regardless of all the advances we make.