Back in the days, I used to be so fond of reading that I'd even pick up random newspaper cuttings I'd found lying on the streets, being run over by several feet and tyres. I'd try to manage reading them before I get home, ending up getting myself bumped into other passers-by in the process and sometimes even putting myself on the risk of being hit by the vehicles.
Those days, our family used to be subscribed to Daily Jung for the weekends. One of those days, I was skimming through the Sunday magazine in search of something interesting enough for me to satisfy my lust of reading when I happened to read a feature about Pakistan Air Force welcoming their first batch of female Flying Officers, after the completion of their training. The term 'Flying Officer' caught my attention. I pronounced it over a couple of times. It sounded really impressive, filled with a sense of authority and accompanied by an endeavor to unleash your potential and to be able to escape into the sky, extending boundlessly overhead. That was when I knew this is what I've always meant to be. Before that, whenever I was asked about my future plans, the only answer which used to escape my lips without a second thought was "Doctor" but it was just a matter of time that I realized that all those times it wasn't me speaking, but my elders. My heart always laid somewhere else.
Soon enough, 'Flying Officer' turned from merely a word into a dream for me; a dream which will never be fulfilled. I and my parents mutually decided that I shouldn't pursue this dream of mine. I wouldn't dig into the details behind this decision.
But my dream hasn't died. On the contrary, it has continued to grow stronger. Whenever, I hear the noise of a PAF plane, I run as fast as I could, just to catch a glimpse of it. Just watching these planes soaring high, inspires me. I'm totally aware of the reality that I wouldn't be able to fly a fighter plane but I won't rest until I set sail onto the skies; one way or the other.
After all; in dreams and in love, there are no impossibilities. None.
