@fromsialkot

Bethlehem — A Short History
Bethlehem is a small city with a very long story. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited
cities in the world, with a history of more than 3,000 years. The city is located about six miles
south of Jerusalem, in what is today the West Bank.
In ancient times, Bethlehem was known as Beit Lahmu, a Canaanite settlement. Over time, it
became famous in the Hebrew Bible as the birthplace of King David, one of the most important
figures in Jewish history. Because of this, Bethlehem gained lasting significance in religious
tradition.
Bethlehem later became sacred to Christians as the believed birthplace of Jesus Christ. In the
year 326 CE, Roman Emperor Constantine ordered the construction of the Church of the
Nativity over the cave traditionally believed to be the site of Jesus’s birth. This church is among
the oldest continuously used Christian churches in the world.
In the 7th century, Bethlehem came under Muslim rule during the time of Caliph Umar ibn
al-Khattab. Christian holy sites were protected, and the Mosque of Umar, located near the
Church of the Nativity, still stands as a symbol of coexistence between faiths.
During the Middle Ages, the city was controlled by the Crusaders, who rebuilt parts of the
Church of the Nativity. From 1517 to 1917, Bethlehem was part of the Ottoman Empire, a long
period marked by stability but also migration, especially among Christian families.
After World War I, Bethlehem came under British rule. Following the 1948 Arab–Israeli war, it
was administered by Jordan. Since 1995, after the Oslo Accords, Bethlehem has been
governed by the Palestinian Authority.
Today, Bethlehem remains a center of Palestinian culture, religion, and tourism. Despite political
challenges, it continues to hold deep meaning for Christians, Muslims, and Jews alike—a city
that represents faith, history, and resilience across centuries.

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

@fromsialkot

"For the first time in the history of Sialkot, women have been appointed as Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioners in all four tehsils."

Deputy Commissioner Sialkot: Saba Asghar Ali

Assistant Commissioner Pasrur: Sidra Sattar

Assistant Commissioner Daska: Sadia Jaffar

Assistant Commissioner Sialkot: Anam Babar

Assistant Commissioner Sambrial: Ghulam Fatima

6 months ago | [YT] | 0

@fromsialkot

Eligibility Under U.S. Immigration Law

If you:
• Legally entered the U.S. (even if your visa later expired),
• Are currently married to a U.S. citizen,
• And have no serious criminal or immigration violations (like a fake marriage, misrepresentation, or past deportation),

Then you are generally eligible to apply for a green card while staying in the U.S.

⸻

Process to Apply (Marriage-Based Adjustment of Status)
1. Form I-130 – Petition for Alien Relative (filed by the U.S. citizen spouse).
2. Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (filed by the non-citizen spouse).
3. Form I-864 – Affidavit of Support (proves your spouse can financially support you).
4. Form I-693 – Medical exam and vaccination record.
5. Biometrics Appointment – You’ll be scheduled for fingerprinting.
6. Green Card Interview – With both spouses, to confirm the marriage is genuine.
7. Approval – If everything checks out, you’ll receive a green card.

⸻

Work & Travel While Waiting

You can also file for:
• Form I-765 – Work permit (EAD).
• Form I-131 – Advance parole (travel permission).

These are optional but useful while your green card is processing (typically 12–18 months, sometimes less).

⸻

Important Notes
• Overstaying a visa is forgiven in marriage to a U.S. citizen (if you entered legally).
• Entering illegally (e.g., crossing the border without inspection) complicates things and often requires a waiver or consular processing.

8 months ago | [YT] | 0

@fromsialkot

Pakistan cricket continues to be a story of inconsistency—brilliant one day, disastrous the next. Lacking mental toughness, stability, and game awareness, they crumble under pressure. Talent alone won’t win matches; mindset, discipline, and leadership do. Until then, expect more heartbreaks.

10 months ago | [YT] | 1

@fromsialkot

Remembering Choudary Sallahuddin on His 12th Death Anniversary

Today marks the 12th death anniversary of my dear friend Choudary Sallahuddin, who passed away on February 5, 2013, at the age of 49. He was born on September 28, 1964, and left behind memories that will always stay in our hearts.

Sallahuddin was more than just a friend; he was a true party man, always bringing people together and creating unity among friends. I first met him in 1984, and we shared many unforgettable moments. We were roommates in an apartment on Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn, where five of us lived together with just one bathroom! It was always a struggle—one friend sitting on the toilet while another took a shower. Oh my God, what a time!

As we got ready, we listened to music by Madonna, Lionel Richie, Cindy, and others. After that, we would take the F train to work in Manhattan, doing odd jobs to make a living. Life wasn’t easy, but we were always happy.

Friday and Saturday nights were our party nights. Sometimes we went out to Manhattan for a night of dancing and fun. It was a time filled with laughter, music, and friendship.

I also want to remember all the friends who were part of those golden days:
Naeem Vijay, Mirza Bilal Baig, Rizwan Yasdani, Mansoor, Rana Hummyow, Rana Saeed, Malik Jameel, Mohsin Zaheer, Sameer, Qadeer, Jamil, Zubair, and Pakistani Trump—and so many others.

Sallahuddin, you are missed, but your spirit lives on in our hearts. Rest in peace, my friend.

11 months ago | [YT] | 1

@fromsialkot

PML(N) USA and Pakistani-American Community Express Grief Over Los Angeles Fires

Los Angeles, CA – The PML(N) USA and the Pakistani-American community express profound sorrow over the ongoing wildfires devastating Los Angeles and its surrounding areas. The scale of destruction has deeply impacted communities, leaving families displaced and landscapes scarred.

"Our hearts go out to the residents of Los Angeles during this tragic time," said Syed Anwar Wasti, Information Secretary, PML(N) USA. "We stand in solidarity with those affected and pray for their safety and a swift recovery."

The Pakistani-American community urges everyone to prioritize safety and support relief efforts. As the fires continue to rage, they reaffirm their commitment to aiding those in need.

For those seeking ways to help, donations to local relief organizations are highly encouraged. Together, we can make a difference during this challenging time.

#StayStrongLA #PakistaniAmerican #PMLNUSA

1 year ago | [YT] | 3

@fromsialkot

Federal Minister for Aviation Khawaja Asif inaugurated the resumption of PIA flights to Paris and the European Union at Islamabad International Airport. This milestone reflects Pakistan's commitment to strengthening global connections and reclaiming its place on the international aviation map. It marks a new era of hope and progress for the national airline.

1 year ago | [YT] | 2

@fromsialkot

"On behalf of PML(N) USA, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of President Jimmy Carter. His legacy of compassion, leadership, and service to humanity will forever be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace."

1 year ago | [YT] | 2

@fromsialkot

“Travel tip: Never write in your passport! A U.S. citizen was denied entry to Poland after officials deemed her handwritten notes in the passport as defacement. Passports should only include required signatures and emergency contacts. #TravelSmart #PassportTips #PakistaniAmerican"

1 year ago | [YT] | 1

@fromsialkot

Why Do People Distance Themselves as They Grow Older?
As we grow older, our perspective on life and relationships changes significantly. With age comes wisdom, clarity, and a better understanding of what truly matters. For many, this means stepping away from shallow or exhausting connections and focusing on quality over quantity.

Distancing from people isn’t about resentment; it’s about protecting your energy and nurturing peace in your life.

1. Valuing Time
With age, we realize that time is limited. We no longer want to waste it on unnecessary drama or meaningless conversations. Every moment becomes an opportunity to invest in things that bring joy, peace, and fulfillment.

2. Protecting Energy
Relationships require emotional energy, and as we grow older, we become more careful about where we spend it. Instead of spreading ourselves thin, we focus on fewer but more meaningful connections.

3. Appreciating Solitude
Solitude stops feeling lonely and starts becoming a space for peace and self-reflection. Alone time allows us to recharge, enjoy hobbies, and find contentment without the constant pressure of social demands.

4. Embracing Authenticity
Pretending or maintaining fake relationships starts feeling exhausting. With age, we prioritize keeping people around who truly accept and support us.

5. Letting Go of Negative Relationships
Toxic relationships and unnecessary conflicts affect mental health. Many older individuals make a conscious choice to step away from negativity and embrace a life that promotes peace and happiness.

Practical Ways to Embrace This Change:
Prioritize Real Connections: Spend time with people who genuinely support and uplift you.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” to social commitments that feel draining or unnecessary.
Enjoy Solitude: Use alone time for self-care, hobbies, or simply to rest.
Stay Open to New Connections: While distancing from some people, remain open to forming meaningful relationships with like-minded individuals.
Practice Gratitude: Appreciate those who bring positivity to your life and cherish the peace that comes from living authentically.
By embracing this mindset, aging becomes less about loss and more about rediscovering what truly makes life beautiful: peace, purpose, and genuine relationships.
Syed Anwar Wasti.

1 year ago | [YT] | 3