I didn't choose this life, it chose me

Today’s headline on Benazir Bhutto’s assassination came as a big shock to me outside the petrol station. I stood there staring at the screaming papers; couldn't believe what I’ve just read.

Not that I’m a political science scholar but then I do keep up with the current affairs of the world at large – political issues especially. Being a lady and all, taking on political leaders for her country really gained my admiration.

Never have I come across someone like her (maybe I have: in rhetorical speeches by our local politicians) who addresses her supporters and the people with such spirit, courage, and passion. In a country consisting of people having different ideologies running the gamut from secular to moderate to religious fundamentalism – and recent unrests involving the latter – Bhutto spoke without fear against extremism and meddling of Pakistani affairs by foreign powers.

Like all who have said it, let not democracy be killed. Even now, conspiracy theories abound but digressions aside, I could only heave a sigh each time I thought of her and her not being around anymore. Shalom.