What are footprints? Footprints are steps imprinted into the ground leaving a memorable mark behind. There are excellent marks, awful marks, and there are also questionable ones that are left behind.

Some societies have attempted to leave a positive mark around the world; however, they end up sometimes leaving behind a questionable one. When the Americans invaded Iraq, for example, the atrocities committed at the Abu Ghraib prison have left behind a questionable footprint for them. Adolph Hitler and other leaders such as Idi Amin have left awful footprints around the world. Islamic Terrorists, such as Osama Bin Laden, have also left extreme marks.

On the other hand, people such as Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King, and His Highness the Aga Khan have either all left or continue to leave positive marks around the world. Mother Theresa left an excellent mark behind by loving and caring for people in India who nobody was prepared to look after. Martin Luther King left behind an incredible footprint in his fight for freedom for African Americans. His Highness the Aga Khan today is all over the world leaving behind innumerable footprints through his Aga Khan Development Network which helps people in developing countries by providing them with educational and health institutions and opportunities to be self-reliant.

Positive marks are ones that will have the most impact on improving the quality of life for people everywhere. As I walk through this world, I too would hope to be remembered for the positive footprints I may leave behind!

Zaakir Jiwa