I have to admit that I didn't know Benazir Bhutto, nor did I know that much about her. But what I do remember was that when we faced a time when we didn't know what the future would bring, she was someone that made an effort to explain another part of the world that we only knew through our own media. The picture I had of Pakistan and the one that was shaped from seeing her was very different. It brought an understanding and calmness that reminded me that we are all people, and essentially want the same things, freedom and a chance to make our world a better place.

Since 2005, I have gotten to meet, know and work with a number of people in Pakistan. I can honestly say that they are among the finest, most honorable people I know. I also know that their sadness from the assassination of Bhutto is very real. I sense a feeling of not only loss for the person, but the loss of a symbol that represented a move in the right direction for their country. The loss of that symbol has resulted in an uncertainty among many of the people there, begging the proverbial question "what do we do now."

I can only say that the relationship I have with the individuals I am honored to call friends is the best example of what the future will bring. The problem with country policy, government, power and politicians is they seem to be out of touch with what is really going on with the people and in the minds of the people. The relationships between people is what will bring change, much more so than foreign policy or political maneuvering.

As only one small person, I can say I support the people of Pakistan and truly believe that their future is bright. Although it is hard to be patient, the world will continue to be shaped by us as people. The hardest part is trying to understand what makes some people seem so destined to destroy humankind.

Alex
United States of America
January 1, 2008