JEDDAH, 3 January 2005 — New Year resolutions of Saudis and expatriates seem to be centered on peace, national security and justice around the world. Both groups described the year 2004 as the worst ever.
Looking back over the past year, many of them are not feeling optimistic and think that 2005 will continue what 2004 started: terrorism, war and disasters. However, some are looking to make new changes in their lives, hope to see a prosperous and developed Saudi Arabia and at the same time live in a peaceful world.
Though it has not been a tradition among Muslims to make New Year resolutions, Saeed Al-Amri, a Saudi teacher at a government school, wishes a brighter year and hopes to see a secure and safe Saudi Arabia as it has been for years.
“Last year was a really bad year for us Saudis because we have experienced so many terrorist attacks from our own people who were brainwashed by outsiders. I really hope for the country to remain as safe as it has been for long years,” he said.
Al-Amri did not seem to be very optimistic regarding the situation in Iraq and Palestine within the next few months. “I expect the situation to get worse in Iraq as killings and bombings are taking place day and night in every part of the country. I do not think it is getting better in Palestine as Israelis continue their aggression against Palestinians,” he said.
Another Saudi, Naif Al-Khaldi, wished to see his country back in its normal condition after the various terror attacks in a number of cities during 2004. He said: “I hope the Riyadh attacks are the last and Saudis and expatriates can live in peace and harmony here in the land of the Two Holy Mosques.”
Hussam Badri, a 32-year-old from Syria who has been living in the Kingdom for almost 10 years, wishes the end of sufferings for Iraqis, Palestinians, and other Muslims around the world.
“The year 2004 was not a good year for Muslims because we in the Middle East have gone through a very critical period which has changed the lives of many Muslims. I just wish it will not be repeated this year,” he said.
Ali Siddiqi, who is from Pakistan, prayed for those who lost their loved ones recently during the tsunami disaster. “The year 2004 ended with a disaster which will never be forgotten but Inshallah that will not happen again. It was a really disastrous year and if we replay the tape we would not find any happy days at all. Many people have been killed, tortured, and mistreated. Therefore, we must blame governments for the violence and miserable life,” he said.
Meanwhile, Damen Swanson from Ireland, said he never felt as a stranger here. He hoped expats’ present-day fear will go away as things get better in Saudi Arabia.
“It has been a long time and I have been sharing my life with very friendly and nice people in this part of the world. People here are from different cultures and nationalities who live in one place in harmony. So, my hope for this New Year is that the whole world live in peace and love each other,” he said.
