As 2015 comes to an end, I decided to ask a few people in Saudi Arabia about what changes they would like to see in the coming year in our society with respect to daily living. While many of them hoped for peace and tranquility around the world, some pointed to the following which they felt were important issues in the Kingdom. Robbery on roads: A difficult problem is robbery, especially on the street which is increasing rapidly day by day. Robbers grab handbags, snatch purses and pick the pockets of those walking along the streets of our cities. We hear of such cases almost every day. Consequently, travelers must learn how to avoid being robbed. People, especially expatriates, find it difficult to walk with freedom and relaxation on streets because of thieves targeting them and perhaps striking in a fraction of a second. An Indian expatriate said her husband was robbed when he was returning home after Isha prayer. She said a gang of four young boys took his wallet that contained a few possessions. They used a knife to threaten him. She said after this incident her family was afraid to go out. Although some action has been taken to stop such incidents, they only seem to increase in number and frequency. So I hope in the coming year we can find some way to ward off these street robbers and looters. Values for life and self-improvement: Although there are now various methods to enhance communication in our society, many complain that the bond of relationship is not so strong as it once was. Most of the time, it is a mere formality to smile and wave at friends and family members. These days, the bond of relations is not based on love, affection and care. We make phone calls or visits only when it is compulsory or when we need a favor from relatives. We should leave behind ego, hatred and anger to be grateful for life. Don't forget past years and memories when welcoming the new years ahead. Save only those memories which put a twinkle in your eye, not a wrinkle on your face. To be hale and healthy: Saudis and expatriates are enrolling in gyms and fitness centers to lose weight. The present lifestyle with long working hours and high stress causes various health problems like back pain, knee pain, hypertension, diabetes and fatigue. Nutritionists suggest that one should not skip meals and should eat the right food at the right time. An individual should try to reduce eating junk foods, fatty foods and carbonated drinks as much as possible. By having a healthy diet, we can keep ourselves fit and strong in the coming years. As the saying goes: "Health is wealth." Keeping the environment neat and clean: It is the responsibility of every living person to keep his surroundings tidy. Some people are in the habit of throwing away unwanted pieces of paper, tissues, plastic bottles, cartons, etc. Some others have the unhealthy habit of spitting everywhere, especially near mosque and shops. Spitting in public and open places is sickening to others. This habit clearly shows a lack of concern for other people. The government makes great efforts to keep our environment clean, and we need to support it. Just as charity begins at home, cleanliness is nothing but a habit that everyone must cultivate in the coming years. As a whole, let's hope that 2016 is far better than 2015 in terms of peace, happiness and universal brotherhood. Let's pray to the Almighty to protect our nation and bring an abundance of happiness to one and all.
