Freedom Seekers

Photo; Sameer- Mohamed Ali Mosque Cairo

In the collective memories of people there are unforgettable days and in the lives of us humans there are undeniable moments outside of time. 

Almost an year ago we all sat down in front of TVs to follow what is happening in Egypt, the epicenter of the Arab world. We saw on television Egyptian youth flock to Tahrir Square; hundreds and then thousands, then tens of thousands of Egypt's youth of all ages. It was a scene of wonderful discipline, commitment and progress. Police surrounded the young processions who were chanting for the most basic of human wants; freedom and a dignified life.

 Suddenly Tahrir Square turned into a mass of flame and fire and smoke and bright lights. Strange small cars hurtling in the heart of youth gatherings, tear gas, water cannon and armored vehicles and bullet shot towards young people in a random criminal acts.

Egypt’s fertile land on both sides of the mighty Nile was once called the bread basket of the Roman Empire. This fertility and the strategic location, at the meeting points of three mighty continents has been more of a burden than a blessing to the Egyptian people. Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Mark Antony and much later Napoleon, all invaded Egypt and then the British and then successions of corrupt kings ruled till 1952. The last three presidents were more close to monarchs than presidents and finally  the Egyptian people yearned to breathe a breath of freedom and fresh air!

As they say, you don’t bring revolutions, they come!

 Since 1927 Time magazines editors have been choosing a Person of the Year. A person or persons who have been most influential to us, good or ill throughout the year, whose news have affected us. Last year the editors of this esteemed magazine chose  'The Protester" as the Person of the Year 2011.

Thank You!