29th of Feb is not just a leap year. It is the anniversary of the day my stoic son Shahbaz began his journey home.
The arduous trek started at dawn on the 29th of Feb 2016.
As Shahbaz was led towards the prison gates in Zabeel in Afghanistan, released from a private jail, manned and managed by the Afghan Taliban, he was uncertain as to whether he would be released or receive a bullet in his back, bringing an end to his life.
To his utter amazement this was the beginning of his journey.
Clad in borrowed torn sneakers and inadequate clothing to combat sub zero temperatures, he walked his way across the mountains to a village, where four motorcyclists were waiting to depart for Quetta, making their way across snow clad mountains and treacherous terrain.
As Mark Twain said “you never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have”.
This was a test of human endeavour and sheer resilience.
It was his positive spirit and fortitude that brought out the survival instinct, creating the energy to reach his destination in Kuch Luk Baluchistan.
I marvelled at my boy, when he told me he recalled his fathers reference to Nelson Mandela book, Long Walk to Freedom.
“As I walked out the door towards the gate that would lead to my freedom I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.”
This has carried true till today. I often talk to Shahbaz and ask if any resentment exists for the 4 years and 7 months of freedom that were stolen from him by his captors. He tells me, with great clarity that there are only lessons to be learnt from past events. His are to celebrate life, live everyday with conviction and honesty and contribute positively in any way possible.
Difficult times are a test, often helping to unlock hidden strength within us. The desire to give up can be powerful, fear can paralyse, yet an inner power can guide and give one a taste of what we are truly capable of accomplishing.
I wake up everyday to see my wonderful son enjoying his second lease on life. I thank god for giving him a second chance, after endless years of deprivation, starvation and torture…
I have learnt so much from this courageous young man, I’m proud to call my son.
The writer is the Chairman and CEO First Capital Pace Group Of Companies