World Affairs And Beyond

In the world of games, at age just two, A child begins a cunning debut. Concealment, distraction, teasing play, Skills of deceit find an early way. Lies not rigid, but surprisingly free, Mimicking adults, yet with a child's glee. Building images of competence, so keen, Creating bonds and saving face, unseen. Complex lies, a face-saving art, At two and a half, they subtly start. Bravado, corrections, blame placed askew, In the world of children, skills accrue. Blaming toys or an implausible name, Learning from mistakes, not all the same. In conversion disorders, signals so sly, Deception plays out, catching the eye. Like birds leading predators astray, Children deceive in their own way. From silence to calling, distractions unfold, A repertoire of skills, cunning and bold. Images created, affiliative and more, Tools of deception in their little store. As they grow, those skills refine, A teenage web of deception, so fine. Falsification, concealment, exaggeration too, Mixing fact wit...

In this hurried life, why the constant tension? Are we wary of the divine's benevolent intervention? Why the need to scheme, to outshine, to outdo? Does deceit really pave the way to triumph we pursue? Why the urgency to cheat, to cunningly deceive? Do we believe success requires others to grieve? Why the impatience, the lack of self-command? Does the rush to victory obscure life's fancy strand? In this quest for more, do we lose what truly counts? Is the pursuit of success leaving us with discounted amounts? Why not pause, reflect, and grasp life's essence? Could tranquillity be the key, dispelling the tension's presence? ⒸSobia Nosheen

During my last trip to the tribal region in the north of Pakistan, I found myself once again in the company of Baba Jee before heading back to Karachi. His dwelling, a simple abode, welcomed me with a warmth that transcended its humble surroundings. As I approached, I noticed Baba Jee seated on a worn rug in his mud courtyard, soaking in the golden sunlight. "Baba Jee, it's good to see you again," I greeted him, to which he responded with a welcoming smile. "Come, sit beside me," he gestured to the rug, "and share what's on your mind." Seating myself on the rug, I began to recount various incidents from my life, seeking Baba Jee's guidance. His wise eyes listened attentively, and when I finished, he shared his insights. "My child, let me offer you a piece of advice," he began, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "Never flaunt your wealth or discuss your riches with those who may not share similar financial circumstances....

I feel profound gratitude for the nights that gracefully transformed into mornings, each moment etching itself into the canvas of my heart. Those late hours, bathed in shared laughter and intimate conversations, hold a special place in my soul. They forged connections that transcend mere friendship, evolving into bonds as resilient and comforting as family ties. In the quiet transition from darkness to dawn, I discovered the enduring beauty of relationships that blossomed beneath the soft glow of the moon. My heart swells with appreciation for friends who have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of my life, transforming into a chosen family. Together, we've weathered storms, celebrated triumphs, and stood side by side through the ebb and flow of life. These connections go beyond the superficial; they are the anchors grounding me in a world that can often feel tumultuous. The understanding, love, and unwavering support we share illuminate the profound truth that real kinship...

In a world of transactional hearts,  Where love seems to play its part,  I ponder on what's real and true,  Is there a love that's pure and new? They say to marry for love's embrace,  Yet what I see is a different case,  A romance with terms and conditions,  Leaving me with lingering suspicions. In this dance of give and take,  Is there a love that won't forsake?  I long to find a love so sincere,  One that's not fueled by wants and fear. Where can I seek this genuine flame,  Unburdened by a hidden aim?  True love, a mystery untold,  In a realm where hearts unfold. Is it found in whispered words,  Or actions that speak louder than birds?  I search for love that's not a trade,  A bond that won't easily fade. Define for me this elusive bliss,  What makes a love that's more than this?  Not just a contract, a deal, a pact,  But a connection that's hard to extract. I yearn to know where true love lies,...

In the beginning, a whisper of time, A fraction so small, a cosmic rhyme. The Universe birthed, a grand display, Inflation danced, expanding its way. Faster than light, a cosmic race, Inflation's sprint, a vast embrace. Driven by vacuum energy's might, Expanding swiftly, out of sight. A blink in time, a moment brief, From atom's cradle to stadium's relief. Inflation waltzed, a fleeting spree, Transforming cosmos for all to see. As the dance concluded, energy's shift, A cosmic script, a celestial gift. Matter emerged, a cosmic thread, A symphony played as the Universe spread. From inflation's grip to plasma's hug, A transition swift, a cosmic tug. Hot and dense, a primordial dance, The Big Bang's moment, a cosmic trance. © Sobia Nosheen

Journey through life's unpredictable twists, Discover the power of forgiving mists. In the steaming dance of time, Compassion's rhythm, a soothing rhyme. Explore the realms of hearts set free, Release the burden of enmity. A poetic tale of forgiveness' art, Healing wounds, a fresh start. Embrace the love, let grudges fade, Life's brief moments, in kindness laid. © Sobia Nosheen (13th December 2023)