Unity in catastrophe

By Alankar Khanal

People of any country may have to face Nature's wrath and a deadly strike some times without warning. This time the people of eastern Nepal have become the victims of Nature's ferocious fury. It has resulted in woeful plight of many people, individuals and families of our country. At the same time, a lot of finger-pointing and blame game has started over the issue whether this was a natural calamity or the one resulting from authorities' irresponsibility and negligence. Whatever the case may be, the fact remains that our people in the flood-affected areas are in dire straits and in need of massive aid.
But amidst the affliction, there's something to be proud of. The way Nepali people have started helping the survivors of the disaster with open arms is laudable. With each passing day we are hearing that the relief materials and necessary assistance are being received. All including Nepal Army, policemen, doctors, locals have been exerting their efforts on finding survivors, treating them, and accommodating the displaced.

These courageous and generous individuals have happily volunteered their skills and efforts in order to save as many people as possible by rescuing them and providing them with necessary assistance. Without a doubt they're doing a fantastic job of providing humanitarian assistance with dignity and respect. All seem to be united for one noble cause.

As the flood did not discriminate when it tore its way through the homes of these people dismantling everything on its way without regard for race, caste, culture, religion, age or income level, I am glad to see we are helping the victims of the flood the same way, without discrimination.

Our national unity is crucial for our national development. Therefore, I always get very agitated with issues that separate us as people of one country. I have always marveled at what it would take to create an intimate bond between all citizens of our country. I have always wondered, whether facing a national disaster or calamity could stimulate our sense of oneness and patriotism. Unfortunately, that is true. Such a bond is visible only at times of sorrow and mourning. Our national unity and nationalism has been exemplified mostly at times of grief, tragedies and catastrophes only. Rest of the times we are busy fighting for some trifling issues completely discounting the issues that are more pertinent.

I just want to put across my thought as to why such sense of humanity, unity and belongingness pops out only during times of adversity? Do we have to wait for a missile to strike us, an earthquake to shake us or a flood to sweep us to stimulate our love, affection and respect for our people or should we all stand together all the time to promote peace and love over violence and hatred and live happily in an indivisible Nepal? It's high time all Nepalis contemplated about this.