| And in this endeavour to write about myself, and this wonderful
country, I have mentioned several individuals, places, events, and
situations. But I must admit my writing could not keep in pace with
the winds of change sweeping over the nation. Since the time I began
writing this book, I realise how everything is in a constant state of
flux. Individuals grew on and became much greater. Ministers took up
higher and different responsibilities. Newer leaders emerged on to the
forefront. Some events quickly simmered into insignificance. Yet others
bloomed into a brighter glory.
I had to keep writing and rewriting the titles and positions of people
I knew. Even at this very moment – as I pen this note – the Kingdom
of Bahrain had completed its second Parliamentary and Municipal
Elections. And the high and unprecedented turn out consolidates the
country’s march towards democracy. Newer leaders are being chosen
for newer positions.
So, in this constant change, I tried my best to be as accurate as possible,as of today. And inaccuracies, if any, are inadvertent. And I hope to be pardoned.
Writing this is a humbling experience. It is a beautiful experience.
These words therefore are not my own. I compose these with the
divine guidance and am grateful to God for this opportunity to share
my thoughts, comments and interpretations.
I am blessed that I have been chosen to record my experiences in this
beautiful island nation of Bahrain. I am blessed that my family and
I were able to enjoy the beauty and the hospitality of this wonderful
land. I am blessed that I have this privilege to express myself freely and
fairly, objectively and subjectively. I am blessed that I could relate to
life around me as it unfolded over the last two decades and more. I am
blessed that I could comment on the progress this Kingdom is making.
I am blessed that I am given this honour to reach out to people, in this
land that gave me a name and a home.
I am blessed.
*Shukran Bahrain .
Soman Baby
*Note: The word ‘Shukran’ is an Arabic expression of sublime gratitude,
equating to ‘Thank You’ in English. |
