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As I strolled through I-10 Markaz, Islamabad my attention was drawn to an elderly gentleman with a forlorn expression, seated alongside his trusty weighing machine. Intrigued, I approached him and initiated a conversation. At first glance, he appeared to be just an average man, but upon closer inspection of his unique weighing machine, I discovered his creativity.
Abdul Hafeez with his earning machine
During a chit-chat, Abdul Hafeez, a 65-year-old resident of Mandi More (I-11), shared his story in a blend of Pashto and Urdu accents. He mentioned that currently, he is living alone in Islamabad while his family resides in Nowshera. Hafeez revealed that he has three daughters and one son, who is married and resides in Sharjah, UAE. However, he sadly remarked that his son never supports him financially and only calls occasionally from abroad.
When asked about the stickers of Israel and USA flags on his weighing machine, Hafeez explained that it was his way of protesting against the genocide of Palestine by Israel and the support provided by the USA. He recounted how he acquired the stickers and decided to have people weigh themselves by stepping on the flags.
Abdul Hafeez
expressed that putting national flags on his weighing machine should not be
viewed as an offense, but rather as a form of peaceful protest against those
who oppress and harm innocent people, particularly women and children. He
pointed out that Israel's attacks on hospitals violate international standards
and amount to genocide, as they are intended to devastate future generations by
threatening the lives of women and infants. He called on critics of his actions
to reflect on the aggression being directed at these vulnerable groups.
Hafeez voiced his disapproval of the Government of Pakistan, the
Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the broader Islamic community
for their insufficient actions in urging major world powers and the United
Nations to step in and stop the genocide in Gaza. He pointed out that the
United States has played a role in backing Israel throughout this crisis,
driven by its own interests. In light of this situation, how can we attain
global peace, and what justification is there for considering the US a
proponent of peace?
Abdul Hafeez noted that, with the world's eyes on the escalating
situation, protests have started in the United States, where demonstrators are
challenging the rationale behind U.S. support for Israel in its conflict with
the Palestinians. "A significant number of demonstrations have taken place
at various universities across the U.S. and in several European nations. The
participants are well-informed and often show more courage than we do. While we
may partake in extensive discussions, we find it difficult to translate our
words into meaningful action, whether due to the fragility of our government or
a lack of allegiance to it," he is quoted as saying.
Admiring his idea, I inquired if there had been any objections to it, after a moment of reflection, he recounted an incident when an individual approached him and questioned why he was displaying flags of Israel and USA on his machine, suggesting he should use a Pakistani flag instead. For a moment, he admitted to feeling a surge of anger, but managed to compose himself and explain that his love for Pakistan was the reason behind his actions. He couldn't bear to see people disrespecting the Pakistani flag by stepping on it. By utilizing shoes to stamp on the Israel and USA flags, Hafeez was not only making a living but also finding contentment in his work.
Despite his meager daily earnings of Rs. 400 to 450, while a monthly rent of Rs. 4000, Hafeez expressed contentment and satisfaction with his life choices. He found solace in his everyday activities, balancing financial responsibilities and personal beliefs.
As I leisurely walked through the bustling I-10 Markaz of Islamabad city, the vibrant sounds of the marketplace enveloped me. Vendors called out to potential customers, the aroma of street food wafted through the air, and the chatter of people filled the atmosphere with life. It was a typical day in Islamabad, yet something caught my eye—a solitary figure seated beside a weighing machine, his expression forlorn and contemplative.
Intrigued, I approached the elderly gentleman, who appeared to be in his mid-sixties. His weathered face told stories of a life well-lived, marked by both joy and hardship. As I drew closer, I noticed the unique stickers plastered on his weighing machine—flags of Israel and the USA, a stark contrast to the vibrant colors of the surrounding market. I felt compelled to initiate a conversation.
“Assalamu Alaikum, Khan sb,” I greeted him, hoping to break the ice. “What brings you here today?” He looked up, his eyes reflecting a mix of surprise and warmth. “Wa Alaikum Assalam, Son,” he replied, his voice carrying a blend of Pashto and Urdu accents. “I am Abdul Hafeez. I weigh people here for a small fee.”
When questioned about the criticism he faced for displaying the flags of any nation, including Israel and the USA, he responded with conviction. "In places where innocent lives, especially children, are lost and where hospitals and schools are under attack, it becomes imperative to speak out against such atrocities. While it is primarily the state's duty to protect its citizens, the reality is that when the state fails to act,
individuals must step up. I am not taking innocent lives; rather, my use of
these flags serves as a powerful message to those influential nations. Not
every action can be measured by power and wealth; sometimes, it is our moral
compass that truly counts.
As we began to chat, I learned that Abdul Hafeez was a resident of Mandi More, a nearby locality. He shared that he had been living alone in Islamabad while his family resided in Nowshera. “I have three daughters and one son,” he said, his voice tinged with both pride and sadness. “My son is married and lives in Sharjah, UAE. He rarely supports me financially and only calls occasionally.”
His words struck a chord within me. Here was a man who had dedicated his life to raising a family, yet found himself alone and struggling. I could sense the weight of his loneliness, compounded by the distance from his loved ones. “It must be difficult,” I said gently, trying to empathize with his situation.
“Yes, it is,” he admitted, his gaze drifting to the ground. “But I have my work. It keeps me busy.”
Curiosity piqued, I inquired about the stickers on his weighing machine. “Why the flags of Israel and the USA?” I asked, genuinely intrigued.
Abdul Hafeez’s expression shifted from melancholy to determination. “This is my way of protesting against the genocide of Palestine by Israel and the support provided by the USA,” he explained passionately. “I want people of Pakistan and State to think about the injustices happening in the world.”
He recounted how he had acquired the stickers, a mix of frustration and creativity driving him to make a statement. “I decided that if people were going to weigh themselves, they would do so by stepping on these flags. It’s a small act, but it carries a message.”
I admired his ingenuity. “Have you faced any objections to this?” I asked, curious about the reactions he received.
After a moment of reflection, Hafeez recounted an incident that had left a mark on him. “One day, a man approached me and asked why I was displaying the flags of Israel and the USA. He suggested I should use a Pakistani flag instead,” he recalled, his voice rising slightly with emotion.
“For a moment, I felt a surge of anger,” he admitted. “But then I composed myself. I explained to him that my love for Pakistan is the reason behind my actions. I cannot bear to see people disrespecting our flag by stepping on it. This is my way of showing my love for my country and my solidarity with those who suffer.”
His words resonated deeply with me. Here was a man who, despite his struggles, found a way to channel his frustrations into a form of protest that was both creative and thought-provoking.
Despite his meager daily earnings of Rs. 400 to 450, Abdul Hafeez expressed a sense of contentment with his life choices. “I pay a monthly rent of Rs. 4000 for this spot,” he explained, “but I find solace in my everyday activities. I balance my financial responsibilities with my personal beliefs.”
As we continued our conversation, I learned more about his daily routine. He would arrive at the market early in the morning, setting up his weighing machine and preparing for the day ahead. “I meet all kinds of people,” he said, a hint of pride in his voice. “Some are kind, some are indifferent, but each interaction teaches me something new.”
Hafeez’s resilience was inspiring. He had faced numerous challenges throughout his life, yet he remained steadfast in his beliefs and committed to his work. “I may not have much, but I have my dignity,” he stated firmly.
As our conversation deepened, I realized that Abdul Hafeez was not just a man with a weighing machine; he was a storyteller, a keeper of narratives that often went unheard. He shared anecdotes from his life, tales of his daughters’ marriages, and the pride he felt in their accomplishments. “They are my strength,” he said, his eyes lighting up at the mention of his children.
Yet, there was an underlying sadness in his voice when he spoke of his son. “I wish he would come back and support me,” he confessed. “But I understand that life is different for him now.”
His reflections on family and sacrifice resonated with me. It was a reminder of the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices parents often make for their children.
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| Abdul Hafeez waiting for customers |
As the day wore on, I noticed that people began to gather around Abdul Hafeez’s weighing machine. Some stepped on the scale, while others engaged him in conversation. It was clear that he had become a fixture in the community, a source of wisdom and insight for those who took the time to listen.
“People come to me not just for weighing,” he explained. “They come to share their stories, their struggles. I listen, and sometimes, that’s all they need.”
His ability to connect with others was a testament to his character. In a world often consumed by individualism, Hafeez had created a space for community and dialogue.
As I prepared to leave, I asked Abdul Hafeez what message he hoped to convey through his protest. “I want people to remember that we are all connected,” he replied thoughtfully. “The struggles of one are the struggles of many. We must stand together against injustice, no matter where it occurs.”
His words lingered in my mind as I walked away from the market. Abdul Hafeez was more than just a man with a weighing machine; he was a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling. In his own way, he was challenging the status quo and encouraging others to reflect on their beliefs and actions.
In the days that followed, I found myself thinking about my encounter with Abdul Hafeez. His story had left a profound impact on me, prompting me to reflect on my own life and the choices I made. I realized that we often take for granted the simple act of connection, the power of listening, and the importance of standing up for what we believe in.
I decided to return to I-10 Markaz to visit Hafeez again. This time, I wanted to bring along some media friends to share in the experience. I believed that his story deserved to be heard by more people, that his message of solidarity and resilience could inspire others.
When I returned to the market with my friends, Abdul Hafeez greeted us with a warm smile. “Welcome back!” he exclaimed, his eyes twinkling with joy. We gathered around his weighing machine, and I introduced him to my friends, encouraging them to engage in conversation. Few of them make a short documentary for their vlogs and others interviewed him for their News Channels.
As we spoke, Hafeez shared more stories from his life—tales of his youth, his dreams, and the challenges he faced as a father. My friends listened intently, captivated by his words. It was a beautiful moment of connection, a reminder of the power of storytelling to bridge gaps and foster understanding.
Word of Abdul Hafeez’s unique protest began to spread through our conversations and social media. People from different walks of life started visiting him, curious about his story and eager to engage in dialogue. The once solitary figure became a beacon of hope and inspiration for many.
Hafeez welcomed each visitor with open arms, sharing his message of solidarity and resilience. He encouraged people to reflect on their own beliefs and consider how they could contribute to positive change in their communities.
As the weeks turned into months, Abdul Hafeez’s presence in I-10 Markaz grew stronger. He became a symbol of resistance against injustice, a reminder that even the smallest actions could create ripples of change. His weighing machine, adorned with the flags of Israel and the USA, became a powerful statement that resonated with many.
Through his work, Hafeez not only supported himself but also inspired others to stand up for their beliefs and rights. He encouraged people to engage in conversations about social justice, human rights, and the importance of empathy in a world often divided by differences.
My own perspective began to shift as well. I found myself more attuned to the struggles of others, more willing to listen and engage in meaningful conversations. Abdul Hafeez had taught me the value of connection, the importance of standing up for what is right, and the power of storytelling to inspire change.
Forgetting about the state responsibility, I started volunteering in my community, seeking out opportunities to support those in need. I realized that we all have a role to play in creating a more just and compassionate world- and to raise voice against atrocities anywhere including Gaza, Kashmir, Ukraine or any part of the world.
One day, as I visited Abdul Hafeez, I noticed a change in his demeanor. He seemed more vibrant, more engaged with the people around him. “I feel like my message is finally being heard,” he said, a sense of fulfillment in his voice. “People are starting to understand the importance of standing together.”
As we spoke, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in what he had accomplished. Abdul Hafeez had transformed from a solitary figure into a community leader, a voice for those who often went unheard.
As time went on, Abdul Hafeez’s story continued to inspire others. His weighing machine became a symbol of resistance, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one person could make a difference. People began to share their own stories of struggle and resilience, creating a tapestry of narratives that highlighted the strength of the human spirit.
Hafeez’s impact extended beyond the marketplace; it reached schools, community centers, and social media platforms. His message of solidarity resonated with individuals from all walks of life, encouraging them to reflect on their own beliefs and actions.
Eventually, Abdul Hafeez decided to expand his efforts. He began organizing community gatherings, inviting people to share their stories and engage in discussions about social justice and human rights. These gatherings became a safe space for individuals to connect, learn, and grow together. Abdul Hafeez had ignited a spark that would continue to burn brightly in the hearts of those he touched.
Months later, as I reflect on my journey with Abdul Hafeez, I realize that his story is not just his own; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His unwavering commitment to justice and his ability to connect with others have left an indelible mark on my life and the lives of many.
Abdul Hafeez continues to weigh people in I-10 Markaz, but now he does so with a sense of purpose that extends far beyond the scale. He has become a symbol of hope, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength in our shared humanity.
The state of Pakistan has yet to fully embrace its influential potential, leaving individuals like Abdul Hafeez to emerge as beacons of hope in the fight against injustice. While international relations often hinge on self-serving interests, where power tends to corrupt, it remains essential for superpowers to uphold a balance of power to foster peace. Without such efforts, our world risks becoming an increasingly challenging place to inhabit.
Abdul’s story is a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of human experiences. In a world often consumed by individual pursuits, he stands as a testament to the power of empathy and awareness. His life illustrates that even in solitude, one can find purpose and a voice to advocate for justice. The act of weighing, a mundane task for many, becomes a moment of reflection, prompting individuals to ponder the implications of their choices and the broader societal issues at play.
The moral of Abdul Hafeez’s story is clear. Resilience in the face of adversity can lead to profound insights and connections. It teaches us that our struggles do not diminish our capacity to inspire change; rather, they can amplify our voices. Each of us carries the weight of our beliefs and actions, and it is our responsibility to reflect on how they impact the world around us. In a society often distracted by the noise of daily life, Abdul’s message resonates: we must not only weigh our own burdens but also consider the collective weight of humanity’s challenges.
In conclusion, Abdul Hafeez’s life is a powerful narrative of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. His story encourages us to engage with the world thoughtfully, reminding us that even the simplest actions can carry profound significance. As we navigate our own lives, let us strive to be mindful of the weight we carry and the impact we can have on others, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
The writer is a journalist and a student of M.Phil, Area Study Centre for Africa, North & South America, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.
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