Today we are passing through a very critical phase of our history. Both within and without our borders there are challenges that have to be addressed.

We have serious upheaval in many Arab countries; a world economic crisis looming; unstable financial markets; and changing global, political and economic alliances. Within our borders we need to look to the aspiration of the young men and women who will be the key players in the nation’s future. We need to encourage debate, dialogue, tolerance and a sense of cooperation among our own people. The induction of women into all aspects of our society and enhancing their contributions to the national economy also is vital. How do we do all these things? We have another challenge along with these — that of the environment and how to preserve it and see that our resources last for future generations.

Water, electricity and natural gas are vital components of a viable growth engine. How do we do all this? We need research and development so that we tailor ideas and technology to cater to our needs. This is both a challenge and an opportunity, and we must seize this moment.

Our educational system must be revamped. We speak a lot about it, and while some reforms have been implemented, more needs to be done. We should take pride in the reforms put in place, but it is just a beginning to the transformation we need to keep our nation competitive and our people prospering.

We need to keep up the pace and very likely increase it. This needs attitude, resolve and determination, and there is no time to waste. The true expression of patriotism at this point is neither adulation nor effusive prose but rather through sincerity and hard work. All of the Saudi people need to participate in this nation building rather than expecting the government to take care of it.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has made it very clear that the country is determined to be foremost amongst the comity of nations. His determination to raise the quality of life of the Saudi people through reform measures has borne fruit.

Institutions should be created to promote participation and help guide our nation’s development. And the media can help by building bridges and sustaining an atmosphere conducive to progress. Love for one’s country is a two-way street, and both citizens and authorities should learn to respect and trust one another.

Someone asked me yesterday whether I was optimistic about the future, and I replied yes. When he asked me why, I told him I saw the determination in our young men and women to move forward and make a difference in this world of ours. They want to be part of the solution to these challenges and not mere onlookers. That in itself gives hope that we will be able to resolve these issues head on.

We all need to have that same resolve and be willing to work toward that future, which we all should know is possible only through our collective efforts. Use this Saudi National Day to consider whether you could be doing more to help advance our nation. Use the next day to do something about it.