The Vale of Swat

I have been reading about the Pakistani Army build-up at the start of the Vale of Swat.I am filled with sadness.A Pro-Taliban Mullah is evidently calling for a Jihad against Pakistan.When I was in Pakistan during the 60's there were place of exceptional beauty.One,the beautiful gardens of Shalimar,in Lahore.These garden were another gift of Shah Jehan to his beloved bride.The other was the narrow Vale of Swat.I can still see the smiling, friendly villagers and the cherry trees in bloom for miles along the Swat river.Sandlewood intermingled with the cherry blossoms.If I wanted to find a place of beauty and serenity to spend the last of my life,I would look no further.Today I am sad.