©Courtesy of Maria Dulce Leitao Reis Oh, if I could freeze time, but extraordinary amazing works are only within the reach of the Creator, despite humanity's vast advances in science and technology. If I could freeze time, I wouldn't do it now, with the world plunged into turmoil, with devastating wars with no end in sight, with unresolved discord and disputes. If I could freeze time, I would choose a calm time, when people were free from evil and helped each other without ulterior motives. If I had the power to freeze time, I would go back in time and try to find a patch of unscathed time, with people guided by kindness, compassion, cooperation and understanding, where empathy reigned clearly and strengthened the bonds of humanity. With a sparkle of happiness in my eyes, I would see human beings living in peace and harmony, and I would be in no hurry to unfreeze it. In this idyllic setting, free from evil and conflict, people would live in peace and love, sharing life's joys and burdens. What is shared becomes lighter. If this were to happen, it would be a historic milestone, a beautiful sight to behold; joy and laughter filling every space, leaving no gaps, families reunited and united in a collective spirit of goodwill. This is the timeless portrait I would cherish, encapsulating a moment when love and unity prevailed over discord. For now, it's just an imaginary sanctuary! © MARIA D. REIS Portugal