Reporting the truth.

I constantly watch the news. However, I notice that most news stories fly right by because less important topics are discussed. I'm not one to judge but sometimes I need to know everything in a nutshell but any story could be news to another.

I typically watch local news channels like ABC7 and NBC4. I find FOX5 interesting and I like the convenience at 10 p।m. especially if there is snow in the forecast.

My mom watches mostly international news received from the source directly in Pakistan via her satellite connection. In the country, there is constant violence and turmoil or else a terrible disaster like a train wreck or earthquake. Today, my mom discussed an attack on a news station by police officers armed with weapons and tear gas.

According to the PakTribune.com article, several people were manhandled and beaten and offices were destroyed. The DailyTimes.com.pk discussed how the independence of the media is being threatened by these forces. The station, GEO-TV, is known for its investigative reporting and accuracy by eliminating bias. It makes me question: How much do reporters have to sacrifice in order to supply the truth? What is the truth? According to whom?

What are the procedures to protect journalists in these situations? The CPJ also reported the story.

Pakistan is a country dealing with a lot of issues but should be portraying a better image. With a 97% Muslim population, you would think that the country would be promoting peace more. President Gen. Pervez Musharraf promised to find those responsible for the attacks but it will not be easy. I still hope for the best but I know that things need to change. It's always interesting to get another point of view especially from my mom because she was born on the day Pakistan received its independence on August 14, 1947. How crazy is that? My mom is a piece of the homeland.