The beginning of every year is a time to look forward to new dreams and new hopes leaving behind grievances and disappointments of the year just gone by. It is also a time to contemplate on and evaluate achievements and contributions made during the year.
Living in Nepal, I can no longer be happy with my personal gains or achievements. Each one of us today is directly impacted by the state of affairs of the country; be it students, entrepreneurs, job holders or home managers. At times, it does seem like Nepal is running on two parallel tracks, the political hullabaloo on one track and the rest of us on the other. We, as Nepalis have somehow learnt to live without a government in place. I would say that we (the general public) have behaved quite well. Imagine any other country in a situation like ours. We Nepalis have somehow learnt to disassociate ourselves from the foolhardy antics of our politicians and have been wise enough not to be fooled by their empty words. We have learnt not be disappointed on their failure to deliver.
I feel that 2014 has much to offer us in every aspect. Yes, we come across depressing data everyday; on how the number of migrant workers are on the rise, how human rights is being violated on the state of lawlessness in the country, illiteracy and inflation among others. If we recall correctly, Nepal was considered a ‘failed state’ a long time back. Somehow, we are still holding on. I believe in the law of economics that when you hit rock bottom, you have nowhere else to go but bounce back up. I want to see the year ahead as the bounce back upwards for all of us. We have ample reasons to believe that we can do so.
As Nepali citizens we have passed our verdict that we are no longer willing to bend under anarchy, threat and lawlessness. The recently concluded constituent election results proved that. We have a reason to look forward to the creation of our constitution and to the formation of a stable government. We are witnessing the slow but steady emergence of youth groups in the political arena. The importance of appreciative and inclusive approach is being adapted by groups who are fighting for equality, human/gender rights. We have learnt to appreciate and acknowledge our multi-faceted, multi-lingual and multi- cultural nation. The Nepali law has strong provisions to protect the rights of women, children and the disabled. We have reason to look forward to its implementation. The right to information bill has given each one of us the right to question issues that we feel we need answers to. Nepali people can no longer be bamboozled by government officials if we practice this right.
The business sector is becoming more sensitive and concerned about public rights. Where else have we witnessed the involvement of respected business houses and individuals in peace rallies opposing political bandhs. In sports, Nepal’s cricket team ensured its place in the ICC World Twenty 20. They deserve accolades for this immense leap in such a short span of time. Our beauty queen has brought home the prestigious title of ‘Beauty with a Purpose.’ For the first time in all these years Nepal stood tall among the top ten beauties of the world. These are but a few positive changes that have taken place in the year gone by. These examples can only be indicators of what is in store for us as a nation and as a collective force working towards a better future.
I have always been a firm believer of the fact that a positive attitude attracts positivity and this positivity helps us overcome any obstacle that may come our way. A well-received modern theory also states that the secret to success and happiness is to attract them by believing that you are so or can become so. In accordance with this theory, my wish for this year is to remain optimistic, positive and look forward to a lot of such changes at every level.
