ppl have different opinions on what will eventually happen. only time will tell. i personally think that like most things in the universe, the state of things in nepal is cyclical. i guess we had a period of relative peace and prosperity, and now we are going through a civil war that threatens to tear the fabric of our country apart. what i am optimistic about are a) social factors. even thouhg there are remnants of teh caste system, it is not that significant. i for one can say that within my socio-economic group, ppl have respect for one another. also, all of us have a sense of patriotism, and if given the chance most of us would unite do our little bit. b) economic factors. our region is going thru an unprecendeted growth phase right now. china and india's economic growth can only mean good things can happen. regional trade alone can bring growth rate back up significantly. even though nepal is in dire straits right now, growth is around 2-3%. i am sure things are going to get worse politically, but in the long run, one has to be hopeful. i guess there is no other option. what are you gonna do?