If I had a chance to recreate myself I would gladly choose to walk alongside Atatürk. The thought of witnessing him, his ideas, vision and leadership is breathtaking. I would really love to be one of his close friends. Not only would it be an honor to support his efforts in shaping modern Turkey, but it would also be a deep personal journey of growth, learning, and inspiration.
Atatürk was a man with great vision, determination and intelligence. To stand beside him would mean to be a part of a life-changing journey where ideas of modernization and equality were at the forefront. As his friend I can imagine engaging in late-night conversations and discussions on building a nation from the ashes of an empire. Having the opportunity to witness his thought process would be an extraordinary experience.
Atatürk was the masterclass of leadership in the form of resilience and strategy. Either as a soldier in a great military genius, such as that by which he won the Gallipoli campaign, or as a politician in founding the Republic, he neither proved it nor what his actions bore as testimony of his care for the people. As a friend, I would have a front-row seat to witness all these moments and learn from his inspirational example of how to lead, to persevere, and to serve.
Atatürk has been acclaimed for his political and military achievements but he was also a man with a rich personal life. He loved music, science and literature. He wrote 9 books in total, including “Grand Discourse of Atatürk” where he wrote about the War of Liberation, and read about 4.000 books in total. I imagine sharing these passions with him, perhaps listening to traditional Turkish songs or reading poetry together. These moments would create a bond beyond politics among us.
Even though Atatürk’s era had passed, his principles and revolutions remain timeless. As his imagined friend, I would carry his legacy forward, aiming to demonstrate his values of justice, equality, and progress in my own life. His story is a lead to our nation in which it reminds us that with vision and determination, we can overcome immense challenges and create a better future.