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Monday, 31 March 2025

Prompt Builder Template

Task Overview:

What do you want to create or do?

Target Audience:

Who is this for? (age, role, industry, knowledge level, etc.)

Goal / Purpose:

What do you want this to achieve?

Tone / Style:

How should it sound? (professional, casual, persuasive, witty, etc.)

Output Format:

What kind of output do you need? (blog post, tweet, email, bullet list, slide outline, etc.)

Length / Depth:

How long or detailed should it be?

Key Points to Include:

Any must-have ideas, data, or specific messages?

Sources or Input Materials:

Paste or link any data, references, text, or files to base the output on

Constraints or Exclusions:

Anything to avoid? (jargon, clichés, brand rules, etc.)

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 31, 2025, ,

 Twitter   to   X   to   xAI    :  What next?

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Saturday, March 29, 2025, ,

Ya Allah, I beg for Sakoon-e-Qalb - سکون قلب - a beautiful Urdu phrase that translates to "Peace of the Heart" or "Tranquility of the Soul" in English. Sakoon-e-Qalb refers to a state of inner peace, calmness, and serenity that comes from faith, spiritual connection, and surrender to Allah's will.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Friday, March 28, 2025, ,

Forts of Potohar
Thursday, 27 March 2025

Unveiling the Hidden Histories of Pakistan's Ancient Strongholds

As someone who hails from the Potohar region and whose childhood memories are intertwined with its landscapes, I vividly recall picking kokno ber (red barriers) from the Salt Range – I approached 'Forts of Potohar' with a deep sense of personal connection. What I found within its pages was a truly mesmerizing journey through the region's untamed beauty and the silent stories held within twenty ancient strongholds.


Naeema Arshad and Arshad Awan (author of Soulful Symphony Wayfarer) have crafted more than just a historical account; they have breathed life into these often-overlooked structures. Through what appears to be meticulous research (“Our journeys to and from the forts were a real 'tire'-ing experience – the rough terrain took a toll on our car tires, causing them to 'tear' us away from our comfort zone,” says Naeema), the authors unveil tales of valor, deception, survival, and the enduring legacy of Potohar. From the haunting beauty they likely capture in Rawat Fort to the formidable presence of Rohtas Fort, each documented structure resonates with the weight of centuries.

Potohar, the strategic land nestled between the Indus and Jhelum rivers, emerges in their narrative as a significant crucible of civilizations. Its forts stand as silent witnesses to countless battles, the ebb and flow of imperial ambitions, and the constant shifting of allegiances that have shaped this land. What truly distinguishes 'Forts of Potohar' is its skillful fusion of factual historical accounts with the rich tapestry of local folklore and tradition. This approach allows the authors to paint a vibrant picture of the socio-cultural evolution of the region, making history feel both accessible and deeply engaging. Their evident passion for storytelling and unwavering dedication to preserving Pakistan's often-untold cultural heritage resonate powerfully throughout the book.

More than just a historical record or a travel guide, 'Forts of Potohar' offers an immersive experience, transporting the reader to a bygone era of ancient civilizations and grand ambitions. It is a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the deeper layers of Pakistan's history and culture, particularly the often-hidden stories etched in stone across the Potohar landscape.


Published by Lahore School of Economics, the book's impact is amplified by Naeema Arshad's stunning photography. Her evocative images transcend mere documentation, capturing the inherent majesty and often stark beauty of these forts. They effectively transport the reader to the rugged terrains and ancient structures, adding a crucial visual dimension that enriches the narrative. Indeed, the photography stands out as a significant strength of 'Forts of Potohar', making it a valuable addition for history enthusiasts, photography aficionados, and anyone who appreciates the profound beauty of Pakistan's cultural inheritance.

WhatsApp at 0300-8410966 to get a copy signed by the authors.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Thursday, March 27, 2025, ,

Human being are cognitive misers and heuristic thinkers...

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Tuesday, March 25, 2025, ,

Hilal – publication where I started writing



Pakistan Armed Forces Monthly Hilal is a very popular magazine read by every one from Jawan to Gernail. My association with this esteemed publication started in 1977 when I was commissioned as a second lieutenant and posted to an artillery regiment (Sheerni) in Lahore. Our commanding office Lt Col Ghafoor was to open our tree plantation drive by planting a sapling in the unit ground. He desired the event to be covered for Hilal. I was the ‘baby of the unit’ so I was asked to do what was needed. That is when I asked about Hilal. Our unit head clerk gave me a complete file of previous issues of Hilal to read and familiarize myself with the then-weekly magazine.
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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Tuesday, March 25, 2025, ,

Ya Allah, soften my heart and grant me the courage to forgive those who have wronged me. Forgive my own mistakes and weaknesses, and envelop me in Your infinite mercy and compassion. ❤️ ❤️

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Saturday, March 22, 2025, ,

Mishri Mor
Tuesday, 18 March 2025

I have been passing from Mishri Mor (called 8 RD) all my life while going and coming home. This time Husain Qazi explored the hinterland and passed through Mishri Mor and he rang me from there. That is what reminded me of this, hence this post. Husain! this is in your name.


While traveling off the beaten track, not only do you travel in soot free and serene environment but you explore new vistas too. Interesting things come in the way, which normally remains hidden from common commuters in the area. The journey on the byways embraces you with lovely colors, atmosphere, people, and bits and pieces of history. And, there is no hassle anywhere in the way.
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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Tuesday, March 18, 2025, ,

This may happen anywhere
Monday, 17 March 2025

Mukhtar Masood, author of Awaz-e-Dost, Safar Naseeb, and Loh-e-Ayyam, writes that the northwestern part of Persia was called Media and comprised small regions in 350 B.C. Keqabad was ruler in one of the constituencies. He was famous for his fairness, so much so that people from other districts used to bring their feuds to him. He used to hear the cases and decide notwithstanding where the parties belonged.

With time, justice seekers from other counties grew, and it had to be announced that only those cases would be decided in which the parties involved were from areas directly under his command. Masses were so fed up with their own rulers that they declared Keqabad the king of the entire Media.

If the rulers are incapable of delivering justice, the populace can choose new. The countries where justice is not meted out, natives may merge it with another.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 17, 2025, ,

Just @Grok it
Sunday, 16 March 2025

I don’t use Google search anymore.

Grok is my main source for information.

Just Grok it.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Sunday, March 16, 2025, ,

Fun in School
Thursday, 13 March 2025

 

Eman has always been eager to go to school. She had already been in Aly Muhammad's School, Laila Ke School Main, and in Lahore School. Now she has joined Garrison Junior Academy Lahore - one of the best schools in the city - today (25 April 2010).  Today she had an orientation. She was given a long list of books and other stationery items to bring before she was sent home. She even made some new friends. She calls them Doots. Images here show her enthusiasm and zeal, and also tell that she was happy at School. We all wish her the best in life and education.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Thursday, March 13, 2025, ,

The village boy
Wednesday, 12 March 2025

There are lessons in the first landscapes of every one's life. Mine was a vista of green paddy fields, smoking with Salt Range mist, against a setting of ribbon of River Jhelum which from distance looked like a shore of another land altogether. The rough, rugged hill range appeared uninviting against a sky withering with the morning, interrupted by the dawn's red and blue brush strokes. My first learning in life was also in the village.

People in villages still live without roads or other civic amenities of this modern age. No telephone or the Internet (now smartphone works in my villages), even electricity is a recent phenomenon; some are still without it. You see one village and you have seen all. This was the setting where I spent the first twenty years of my life savoring the freedom of adulthood. It is where I decided what (and how) I wanted to do with life. It is where my brothers and friends live. It is where I return whenever my active (and now urban) life allows me to. It is where I want to settle and spend my future.
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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Wednesday, March 12, 2025, ,

"Ammar has reached the pinnacle of his career, beyond which there is no position," Daddy.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 10, 2025, ,

Never give (unsolicited) advice.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 10, 2025, ,

Ears to ground

One evening a few months ago, Ghulam Ali Bloch, a retired bureaucrat turned progressive farmer, who has his roots in remote village Jalla Balla in the suburbs of Sargodha, was finishing up a contract negotiation for buying a piece of land for opening an Ostrich Farm when he realised that a crucial piece of information required to close the deal is missing. He needed to know who had the right to haqq-e shufah (pre-emption). He could only obtain the facts from the central registry of the revenue department.

In order to verify the legal status of a property, including business homes and personal estates, one has to go to the patwari, garedawar, tehsildar and it entails a lengthy and laborious procedure. Historically, getting the required information takes a very long time. But thanks to an old man Mir Thana Khan, a minstrel in the village Jalla Balla, the information was available in his private but very authentic record.
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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 10, 2025, ,

Shagufta Bano - Mano na Mano
Saturday, 8 March 2025

During my interpretership in Russian Language at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) in Islamabad, we had the opportunity to visit various publishing houses and government departments as part of our program. At one such visit to Press and Information Department, after an engaging presentation, we were invited for tea—a casual moment that allowed us to connect with the remarkable individuals who worked there.

While sipping tea, I struck up a conversation with Dr. Farahat Naqi, the visionary owner and driving force behind the publishing house’s success. As we spoke, the topic turned to Dr. Shagufta Bano, one of my most cherished teachers. I couldn’t help but express my admiration for her, praising her wisdom and the profound impact she’d had on me as a student. Dr. Naqi listened patiently to my enthusiastic tribute for a while, his expression unreadable. Then, with a sudden chuckle, he raised his hands and interrupted, 'Please, stop. Enough. I know her far better than you do—she’s been my wife for the past 30 years.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Saturday, March 08, 2025, ,

This sin is enough for you (that) you are always arguing.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Thursday, March 06, 2025, ,

“There are no pacts between men and lions” a quote from Homer's The Iliad. In the book, Achilles says this line to Hector.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Wednesday, March 05, 2025, ,

Pakistani Standard Time, Time Now 

posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 03, 2025, ,

The first sentence of Tolstoy's novel Anna Karenina is: “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way” (Tolstoy, 1875-1877/2001, p. 1).

posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 03, 2025, ,

Have a Blog or a Printing Press

As someone passionate about blogging, I believe everyone should have one. But, let's break it down. For marketers, PR professionals, writers, and anyone looking to share ideas or promote products/services, blogging is a no-brainer. It's easier, cheaper, and more convenient than traditional methods. However, blogging's benefits extend far beyond these groups. Anyone with experiences to share, stories to tell, or a desire to document their thoughts can benefit from blogging.

I once suggested to a diplomat that they start a blog. In today's digital age, it's surprising that more diplomats don't have blogs. After all, even presidents (like those of Iran and the USA) have blogs.

In an era where digital communication is key, I'd argue that blogs are essential for diplomats and foreign department officials. Anyone listening?

In conclusion, if you can't have a blog, you should at least have a printing press. The point is, sharing your ideas and perspectives with the world is crucial – and blogging is one of the most effective ways to do so.

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posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, March 03, 2025, ,


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