Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why do they need to be read (or heard) over and over again? You're going to be intentionally stranded on an island for a year. What five books do you bring or what five songs do you bring (assume you can play them on something!!!)?"
Though I hope I am not stranded on an island alone and that too for a year. Nevertheless, below mentioned are the five books that I would not mind reading again and again. Truly inspiring and motivating.
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks – No one can do without love. The least I could do alone on the island is read a love story. One of the most touching and sincere love stories I have ever read.
Notes to myself by Hugh Prather– I would really like to start writing something like this myself. It really gives you all the support and advice and is especially easy to read as it discusses day to day feelings, apprehensions and wishes.
Roots by Alex Haley– On a serious note, this book is about American slavery. It is a very well written book with a gripping storyline which tells you about how American slaves were treated and the attitude of whites against blacks.
Atlas shrugged by Ayn Rand – This book deals with the power of mind in a person’s life. If the mind is set on one thing, success is inevitable.
Fountainhead by Ayn Rand – No compromises in life and work with an independent mind and thoughts is what this book is all about. No matter what the world says. Stand by what you want to do. Individualism is the key to success.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
A Realist about Death
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "When did you finally become a realist about something? Write about an event that changed the way you thought."
If the people we love are stolen from us, the way to have them live on is to never stop loving them. Buildings burn, people die, but real love is forever.” The Crow (1994)
Live your life as if today were the last day. There will be loads to do and loads to look forward to. You never know what’s going to happen tomorrow.
I used to think that everything ends when someone is dead. Life ends, becomes meaningless. There’s nothing left to do than mourn. Things don’t remain the same. You don’t know where to go, what to do, how to handle things. It becomes futile and worthless. But a young death in the family recently changed my views on the way I used to think about death. Rather, I became a pragmatist. Its not that I haven’t witnessed deaths of people close to me, but mostly have been at a latter stage of life – either very old or maybe we could see it coming as they were unwell. One almost died in my arms. We were prepared. But this one shook me and shook me so hard that it will stay forever. Somebody did pass away even last year, but it took me a while and I moved on. But a young death of my cousin left me motionless. She was barely 32, and she just had a slight fever and cough. Pregnant, she was admitted to a hospital to be cured. On the contrary, she came out not restored, but dead. She’s left behind a young daughter of 6-7yrs…..what do we do? How do we make her understand?
This stark reality changed me. The world for her closest ones has changed forever. But what happens to the rest of us who don’t stay with her but are mere relatives? Life goes on. Everyone who has their plans with anything else continues. You feel sad, very sad, but what do you do? Shed a few tears, feel immensely bad, be there with the people who are suffering the most in these bad times, and then what…you carry on…
I truly believe today that life is short. You don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow. And death affects only the people who are extremely close to you; maybe your parents and your spouse and children. For the rest, life goes on. For the closest, the dent remains and it remains forever. But after a few years, they learn to carry on as well. Do they have a choice – NO….I have become a realist.
A quote by Robert Frost justifies my comprehension on death and reality: In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life. It goes on.
If the people we love are stolen from us, the way to have them live on is to never stop loving them. Buildings burn, people die, but real love is forever.” The Crow (1994)
Live your life as if today were the last day. There will be loads to do and loads to look forward to. You never know what’s going to happen tomorrow.
I used to think that everything ends when someone is dead. Life ends, becomes meaningless. There’s nothing left to do than mourn. Things don’t remain the same. You don’t know where to go, what to do, how to handle things. It becomes futile and worthless. But a young death in the family recently changed my views on the way I used to think about death. Rather, I became a pragmatist. Its not that I haven’t witnessed deaths of people close to me, but mostly have been at a latter stage of life – either very old or maybe we could see it coming as they were unwell. One almost died in my arms. We were prepared. But this one shook me and shook me so hard that it will stay forever. Somebody did pass away even last year, but it took me a while and I moved on. But a young death of my cousin left me motionless. She was barely 32, and she just had a slight fever and cough. Pregnant, she was admitted to a hospital to be cured. On the contrary, she came out not restored, but dead. She’s left behind a young daughter of 6-7yrs…..what do we do? How do we make her understand?
This stark reality changed me. The world for her closest ones has changed forever. But what happens to the rest of us who don’t stay with her but are mere relatives? Life goes on. Everyone who has their plans with anything else continues. You feel sad, very sad, but what do you do? Shed a few tears, feel immensely bad, be there with the people who are suffering the most in these bad times, and then what…you carry on…
I truly believe today that life is short. You don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow. And death affects only the people who are extremely close to you; maybe your parents and your spouse and children. For the rest, life goes on. For the closest, the dent remains and it remains forever. But after a few years, they learn to carry on as well. Do they have a choice – NO….I have become a realist.
A quote by Robert Frost justifies my comprehension on death and reality: In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life. It goes on.
Monday, December 14, 2009
December 2
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
The United Nations International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is commemorated on December 2 annually to remind people about slavery and that it works against human rights.
http://www.un.org/ - This day recalls the date of adoption by General Assembly of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others (resolution 317(IV) of 2 December 1949). In 1985, to recall the convention, a UN report of the Working Group on Slavery recommended December 2 to be proclaimed as the World Day for the Abolition of Slavery. By 1995, the name of the day was changed and known as the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery.
Short History: Transatlantic slavery was abolished in 1807, but some forms exist even today. Way back, it had a huge impact on the culture and economy of the society.
The first recoded British voyage to West Africa to capture people for slavery in the Caribbean was in 1562. By 1698, the London-based trade had captured over 1,00,000 Africans to work in the sugar plantations thereby reaping great benefits. Ship building for transport, cotton production and shackle-making for imprisonment made small towns into industrial cities. 10 million out of 24 million survived the Atlantic crossing. Slaves were beaten, under-fed and worked throughout day and night. They had no legal rights and were considered as an inferior property. The Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade and The Sons of Africa (a group of Black community leaders including Olaudah Equiano) filed petitions, gathered testimonies from slaves and demanded a change in the law for the abolition of slavery. Though on March 25, 1807 slavery was abolished by law, it was only 1833 that it was completely abolished.
In America, African slaves were brought by 1607. From 1654 to 1865, slavery was considered legal in America and the conditions of the slaves was no better than in Britain. They were whipped, beaten, metal collars were used on them or placed in chains. It usually came from the plantation owner, his wife or children (white males) and by the overseer. Chattel slavery was widespread and about 12 million Africans were shipped to America from the 16th to the 19th centuries, though only about 50 -60% actually reached America. In 1780, according to the Massachusetts Constitution, a slave Quock Walker sued for his freedom, won it and slavery was abolished in Massachusetts. On December 6, 1865 due to the abolitionist movement led by William Lloyd Garrison and the American Colonization Society; under the third amendment of the United States Constitution, slavery was officially abolished in America forever.
Ground Reality: Slavery exists even today in a number of different forms such as bonded and forced labour which especially comes in the form of child labour. Over 1 million children are trafficked each year for cheap labour and sexual exploitation. Across the worlds, millions of children do extremely hazardous work in harmful conditions. Full time work at dangerous places sometimes leads to putting the children’s life at risk. They are paid very badly and there is no access to education or escape from poverty. One in 12 of the world's 5-17 year olds work in conditions subjected to psychological, verbal, physical and sexual abuse.
Hence, December 2 is celebrated throughout the world by people creating awareness in the form of opinion pieces, news, feature articles, poetry and much more. History is revised and students and people learn about the negative impacts of slavery on the society. Online, print and broadcast media hold talks and write-ups on the institution of slavery and why it should be banned.
The United Nations International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is commemorated on December 2 annually to remind people about slavery and that it works against human rights.
http://www.un.org/ - This day recalls the date of adoption by General Assembly of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others (resolution 317(IV) of 2 December 1949). In 1985, to recall the convention, a UN report of the Working Group on Slavery recommended December 2 to be proclaimed as the World Day for the Abolition of Slavery. By 1995, the name of the day was changed and known as the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery.
Short History: Transatlantic slavery was abolished in 1807, but some forms exist even today. Way back, it had a huge impact on the culture and economy of the society.
The first recoded British voyage to West Africa to capture people for slavery in the Caribbean was in 1562. By 1698, the London-based trade had captured over 1,00,000 Africans to work in the sugar plantations thereby reaping great benefits. Ship building for transport, cotton production and shackle-making for imprisonment made small towns into industrial cities. 10 million out of 24 million survived the Atlantic crossing. Slaves were beaten, under-fed and worked throughout day and night. They had no legal rights and were considered as an inferior property. The Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade and The Sons of Africa (a group of Black community leaders including Olaudah Equiano) filed petitions, gathered testimonies from slaves and demanded a change in the law for the abolition of slavery. Though on March 25, 1807 slavery was abolished by law, it was only 1833 that it was completely abolished.
In America, African slaves were brought by 1607. From 1654 to 1865, slavery was considered legal in America and the conditions of the slaves was no better than in Britain. They were whipped, beaten, metal collars were used on them or placed in chains. It usually came from the plantation owner, his wife or children (white males) and by the overseer. Chattel slavery was widespread and about 12 million Africans were shipped to America from the 16th to the 19th centuries, though only about 50 -60% actually reached America. In 1780, according to the Massachusetts Constitution, a slave Quock Walker sued for his freedom, won it and slavery was abolished in Massachusetts. On December 6, 1865 due to the abolitionist movement led by William Lloyd Garrison and the American Colonization Society; under the third amendment of the United States Constitution, slavery was officially abolished in America forever.
Ground Reality: Slavery exists even today in a number of different forms such as bonded and forced labour which especially comes in the form of child labour. Over 1 million children are trafficked each year for cheap labour and sexual exploitation. Across the worlds, millions of children do extremely hazardous work in harmful conditions. Full time work at dangerous places sometimes leads to putting the children’s life at risk. They are paid very badly and there is no access to education or escape from poverty. One in 12 of the world's 5-17 year olds work in conditions subjected to psychological, verbal, physical and sexual abuse.
Hence, December 2 is celebrated throughout the world by people creating awareness in the form of opinion pieces, news, feature articles, poetry and much more. History is revised and students and people learn about the negative impacts of slavery on the society. Online, print and broadcast media hold talks and write-ups on the institution of slavery and why it should be banned.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Importance of Breakfast
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why is it the most important meal of the day? Write something that begins and ends with eating breakfast."
A common mistake caused by most people is of skipping the breakfast, not knowing the nutritional facts about it, or simply acting oblivious to the facts. Either they are too busy or weight loss seems to be the reason in most cases.
However, it is now known that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If you wish to eat light, do so for dinner. Breakfast prepares you for the hard and tiring day at work and similarly for children at school. According to the American dietetic association, it is the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast is important for the mind and body and makes you jumpstart your day without feeling exhaustive and agitated. Breakfast is also essential as there has already been a gap of 8-10hrs before as dinner time is usually early these days. Hence, it is imperative to have breakfast and enjoy a healthier and more prolific life.
Finally for those who feel skipping breakfast can make you lose weight, think again. Breakfast is actually important for weight loss and weight management, according to dietician Gail Frank, spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association.
A combination of light foods such as whole-grain cereal, low-fat yoghurt, fruits, whole-wheat pita, eggs (not fried), lean ham sandwich, vegetable juice, rye bread, bread rolls, baked beans, orange juice, grilled vegetables, nuts and cinnamon on hot cereal etc. can be taken for breakfast giving you the entire nutrients required for the day.
‘Mood and Food’, a report commissioned by LURPAK into British breakfast suggests the importance of a nutritionally balanced breakfast diet. According to this report, breakfast cereals provide the complete vitamins and minerals required for the body, and fruit juices provide the vitamin C. Foods such as porridge, granary breads and wholegrain cereals contain low or moderate GI (Glycaemic Index), unlike carbohydrates which contain a high GI. A high GI can give rise to blood glucose levels and make you feel hungrier. Thus, it is advisable to eat foods with a low GI.
So get up 10 minutes early to make time for your morning meal. Your body and mind will certainly be pleased.
A common mistake caused by most people is of skipping the breakfast, not knowing the nutritional facts about it, or simply acting oblivious to the facts. Either they are too busy or weight loss seems to be the reason in most cases.
However, it is now known that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If you wish to eat light, do so for dinner. Breakfast prepares you for the hard and tiring day at work and similarly for children at school. According to the American dietetic association, it is the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast is important for the mind and body and makes you jumpstart your day without feeling exhaustive and agitated. Breakfast is also essential as there has already been a gap of 8-10hrs before as dinner time is usually early these days. Hence, it is imperative to have breakfast and enjoy a healthier and more prolific life.
Finally for those who feel skipping breakfast can make you lose weight, think again. Breakfast is actually important for weight loss and weight management, according to dietician Gail Frank, spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association.
A combination of light foods such as whole-grain cereal, low-fat yoghurt, fruits, whole-wheat pita, eggs (not fried), lean ham sandwich, vegetable juice, rye bread, bread rolls, baked beans, orange juice, grilled vegetables, nuts and cinnamon on hot cereal etc. can be taken for breakfast giving you the entire nutrients required for the day.
‘Mood and Food’, a report commissioned by LURPAK into British breakfast suggests the importance of a nutritionally balanced breakfast diet. According to this report, breakfast cereals provide the complete vitamins and minerals required for the body, and fruit juices provide the vitamin C. Foods such as porridge, granary breads and wholegrain cereals contain low or moderate GI (Glycaemic Index), unlike carbohydrates which contain a high GI. A high GI can give rise to blood glucose levels and make you feel hungrier. Thus, it is advisable to eat foods with a low GI.
So get up 10 minutes early to make time for your morning meal. Your body and mind will certainly be pleased.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Evil Twin
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "How would you greet yourself? Write about your alter ego, your long-lost clone, or your evil twin as if he/she was a person you could meet on the street."
Instead of writing about my evil twin, I am going to write about a meeting with my mother’s evil twin.
This is a very old story, about 25 years back. I still remember I was very small, around 4-5 years old. The impact of the meeting was so strong that till date I shudder when I remember it.
It was evening time and the mothers were as usual catching up on the daily gossip, while the children played in the park. I was accompanied by my servant that day as my mother was busy with household chores. While playing, I ran off to a spot, away from my friends. Maybe that was just a part of the game, I don’t remember now. I saw a lady who looked like my mother. She was calling me. She looked so much like my mom, I went to her without telling my servant. The only best thing that happened to me that day was that I could still see my house from where I was standing. As I went closer to my mom’s evil twin, and I am rightly saying evil, I realized she was doing something funny. She was rotating her hands round and round like the movement of a wheel. I found that funny, though it could have been a way to hypnotize me. Ironically, she was wearing a saree which was very similar to a print my mom had. This was also one of the reasons that I had actually walked towards her. I began to say something, but she was saying only one thing – COME! As if she was trying to pull me towards her. By God’s grace, I heard someone call me. I looked the other way and saw my mom calling out to come back home. I was perplexed. Not knowing what was truly happening at that time, I turned around and simply ran to my real-life mom and hugged her tightly. I told her about the other lady. But when she looked out, there was no one there. Considering that I was small, she thought it was just something else I might have seen, and she left the topic.
Till date, when I think about it, I wonder who she was. Was she someone with just another face like my mom’s as they say that there are 7 people in the world who have the same face (don’t ask me who is they, I have probably heard it somewhere); or was she a witch (though I know there are no witches), who was trying to hypnotize me and take me to a place unknown. But I know for sure that she had the same face like my mom but with a starkly different personality. I thank God whenever I think about this experience. For these reasons, it is always explained to kids to just not walk off with anyone unknown. A good lesson learnt the bad way.
Instead of writing about my evil twin, I am going to write about a meeting with my mother’s evil twin.
This is a very old story, about 25 years back. I still remember I was very small, around 4-5 years old. The impact of the meeting was so strong that till date I shudder when I remember it.
It was evening time and the mothers were as usual catching up on the daily gossip, while the children played in the park. I was accompanied by my servant that day as my mother was busy with household chores. While playing, I ran off to a spot, away from my friends. Maybe that was just a part of the game, I don’t remember now. I saw a lady who looked like my mother. She was calling me. She looked so much like my mom, I went to her without telling my servant. The only best thing that happened to me that day was that I could still see my house from where I was standing. As I went closer to my mom’s evil twin, and I am rightly saying evil, I realized she was doing something funny. She was rotating her hands round and round like the movement of a wheel. I found that funny, though it could have been a way to hypnotize me. Ironically, she was wearing a saree which was very similar to a print my mom had. This was also one of the reasons that I had actually walked towards her. I began to say something, but she was saying only one thing – COME! As if she was trying to pull me towards her. By God’s grace, I heard someone call me. I looked the other way and saw my mom calling out to come back home. I was perplexed. Not knowing what was truly happening at that time, I turned around and simply ran to my real-life mom and hugged her tightly. I told her about the other lady. But when she looked out, there was no one there. Considering that I was small, she thought it was just something else I might have seen, and she left the topic.
Till date, when I think about it, I wonder who she was. Was she someone with just another face like my mom’s as they say that there are 7 people in the world who have the same face (don’t ask me who is they, I have probably heard it somewhere); or was she a witch (though I know there are no witches), who was trying to hypnotize me and take me to a place unknown. But I know for sure that she had the same face like my mom but with a starkly different personality. I thank God whenever I think about this experience. For these reasons, it is always explained to kids to just not walk off with anyone unknown. A good lesson learnt the bad way.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Unused and forgotten
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why do we store it then? Write about something kept in a pantry that is almost never eaten or used."
I had bought corn and chilli sauce to make vegetable fried rice and noodles…though I did make them once in a while, but suddenly no one wanted to eat them. Everyone at home had stopped liking it for some reason, still unknown to me; hence I had to stop making them. It has been quite some time but the two ingredients bought for the dishes have since then never been used. They have been just lying in the fridge ever since. I don’t feel like throwing it away. Its expiry date is still far off. These things can last very long if kept properly. And I am still keeping them with the hope that maybe someday, my family decides to eat the two dishes and I will need the two ingredients. It’s at a lot of times that we end up spending money on things which we hardly or almost never use. It’s always a good idea to keep a check on the items bought especially for the kitchen; else one will keep stacking and then throwing…
I had bought corn and chilli sauce to make vegetable fried rice and noodles…though I did make them once in a while, but suddenly no one wanted to eat them. Everyone at home had stopped liking it for some reason, still unknown to me; hence I had to stop making them. It has been quite some time but the two ingredients bought for the dishes have since then never been used. They have been just lying in the fridge ever since. I don’t feel like throwing it away. Its expiry date is still far off. These things can last very long if kept properly. And I am still keeping them with the hope that maybe someday, my family decides to eat the two dishes and I will need the two ingredients. It’s at a lot of times that we end up spending money on things which we hardly or almost never use. It’s always a good idea to keep a check on the items bought especially for the kitchen; else one will keep stacking and then throwing…
Monday, November 16, 2009
November 25
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Since 1981, the day of anti violence against women has been marked on November 25 by women activists. By resolution 54/134 of 17 December 1999, the General Assembly designated this day as the “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women” in commemoration of the three sisters of the Dominican Republic who were assassinated in 1960 on orders of their Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo. This day also marks the beginning of the 16 days of activism against gender violence which is December 10, known as International Human Rights Day.
Background of the three sisters: Patria Mercedes Mirabal (February 27, 1924 – November 25, 1960), María Argentina Minerva Mirabal (March 12, 1926 – November 25, 1960) and Antonia María Teresa Mirabal (October 15, 1935 – November 25, 1960) were three sisters who were citizens of the Dominican Republic. They ardently opposed the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo as they believed that Trujillo would send their country into an economic turmoil. This was true in a way as even though the economy was getting better, there was no freedom and most of the money was getting into the pocket of the Trujillo family. The family lost all their fortune as well when Trujillo came to power. Hence, the sisters opposed Trujillo’s rule by forming a group known as “Movement of the Fourteenth of June”, in which they were known as "The Butterflies"; and fought to end his dictatorship. After numerous incarcerations and torture, when the sisters did not stop their anti political activities, the dictator decided to get rid of them. On November 25, 1960, his men executed the three sisters and their driver, and threw their car off of the mountain La Cumbre, between the cities of Santiago and Puerto Plata. The only sister alive today is Bélgica Adela "Dedé" Mirabal-Reyes (March 1, 1925 – present) who lives to tell the stories of her sisters.
Violence against women has been prevalent since centuries. It gives rise to gender inequality and denies women their basic human rights, such as health and freedom. It also undermines the social and economic development, and fractures communities and the country as a whole.
70% of women around the world are subject to rape or domestic violence especially from their husbands or someone they know. These issues are often hidden and cause more death and disability than any other disease.
Governments, international organizations and NGOs regularly organize activities every year to raise public awareness of the problem. It is high time that “SAY NO TO VIOLENCE” is not only spoken out but also implemented throughout the society and the world.
Since 1981, the day of anti violence against women has been marked on November 25 by women activists. By resolution 54/134 of 17 December 1999, the General Assembly designated this day as the “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women” in commemoration of the three sisters of the Dominican Republic who were assassinated in 1960 on orders of their Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo. This day also marks the beginning of the 16 days of activism against gender violence which is December 10, known as International Human Rights Day.
Background of the three sisters: Patria Mercedes Mirabal (February 27, 1924 – November 25, 1960), María Argentina Minerva Mirabal (March 12, 1926 – November 25, 1960) and Antonia María Teresa Mirabal (October 15, 1935 – November 25, 1960) were three sisters who were citizens of the Dominican Republic. They ardently opposed the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo as they believed that Trujillo would send their country into an economic turmoil. This was true in a way as even though the economy was getting better, there was no freedom and most of the money was getting into the pocket of the Trujillo family. The family lost all their fortune as well when Trujillo came to power. Hence, the sisters opposed Trujillo’s rule by forming a group known as “Movement of the Fourteenth of June”, in which they were known as "The Butterflies"; and fought to end his dictatorship. After numerous incarcerations and torture, when the sisters did not stop their anti political activities, the dictator decided to get rid of them. On November 25, 1960, his men executed the three sisters and their driver, and threw their car off of the mountain La Cumbre, between the cities of Santiago and Puerto Plata. The only sister alive today is Bélgica Adela "Dedé" Mirabal-Reyes (March 1, 1925 – present) who lives to tell the stories of her sisters.
Violence against women has been prevalent since centuries. It gives rise to gender inequality and denies women their basic human rights, such as health and freedom. It also undermines the social and economic development, and fractures communities and the country as a whole.
70% of women around the world are subject to rape or domestic violence especially from their husbands or someone they know. These issues are often hidden and cause more death and disability than any other disease.
Governments, international organizations and NGOs regularly organize activities every year to raise public awareness of the problem. It is high time that “SAY NO TO VIOLENCE” is not only spoken out but also implemented throughout the society and the world.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Recipe for Happiness
Prompt: The Daily Topic: What are you cooking up in your head? Write a personal recipe for happiness or some other pleasant emotion, or write a recipe of your day. List the ingredients, then creatively explain how you'd make the dish."
When one door of happiness closes, another opens but often we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us. ~ Anonymous
Everyone wants to be happy. They tend to look for happiness all over when actually happiness is right within them. Some also tend to feel that it’s either money, expensive things or anything else materialistic which will make them happy. They don’t realize that true happiness lies within their family, their friends, their small successes and achievements. And go hunting for happiness without ever truly finding it. Of course there can be and will be subtractions and additions of happiness in life, but the happiest people just make the most of everything they have rather than complaining all the time for something they don’t. Inner peace is a path to happiness and it always does not have to be a by-product of money.
In my view, a recipe for happiness which serves all:
It should start as soon as you are awake and should never end. Mix 2 cups of smile and patience, a heart of gold showering love, 2 handfuls of a helpful attitude, dashes of laughter, sprinkled with charity and kindness, plenty of trust and understanding, and a touch of care.
After all, Happiness is a journey all through life, not the end of any goal.
When one door of happiness closes, another opens but often we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us. ~ Anonymous
Everyone wants to be happy. They tend to look for happiness all over when actually happiness is right within them. Some also tend to feel that it’s either money, expensive things or anything else materialistic which will make them happy. They don’t realize that true happiness lies within their family, their friends, their small successes and achievements. And go hunting for happiness without ever truly finding it. Of course there can be and will be subtractions and additions of happiness in life, but the happiest people just make the most of everything they have rather than complaining all the time for something they don’t. Inner peace is a path to happiness and it always does not have to be a by-product of money.
In my view, a recipe for happiness which serves all:
It should start as soon as you are awake and should never end. Mix 2 cups of smile and patience, a heart of gold showering love, 2 handfuls of a helpful attitude, dashes of laughter, sprinkled with charity and kindness, plenty of trust and understanding, and a touch of care.
After all, Happiness is a journey all through life, not the end of any goal.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Osteoporosis
Common symptoms, diagnosis and cure of Osteoporosis
Anna had been experiencing slight pain in her shoulders and lower back for sometime. Assuming that it was due to fatigue as a part of old age, she overlooked the symptoms. Little did she know that it was osteoporosis, the ‘silent disease’ creeping into her body making her bones fragile.
Very often, the patient having osteoporosis does not feel sick; hence the problem is not diagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage. As osteoporosis progresses, its symptoms start becoming evident in the form of severe back pain, or hampering the daily routine activities which begin to get extremely tiring. Osteoporosis weakens the bones leading to thinning of bone tissue and loss of bone density; a common factor being age, found mostly in women over the age of 50. The hip, spine and wrist are especially vulnerable to fractures even from minor injuries.
Common symptoms occurring late in the disease are:
- Back pain slowly leading to a bent back, called a dowager's hump (kyphosis) as the bones of the spine gradually collapse.
- Cramps in the legs
- Shoulder and Neck pain
- Loss of height
- Tooth loss due to a weaker jawbone structure.
- Fatigue
- Knee pain indicating other health problems such as arthritis.
- Pain in the bones or muscles, particularly of the back.
As the symptoms don’t appear early, it is often difficult to get treatment at the right time. However, a few tests are available to detect the stage of osteoporosis in the patient and the corresponding treatment provided.
Diagnosis methods:
- Bone density tests: Specialized tests which measure the bone density in various parts of the body. They measure the rate at which the patient is more susceptible to fractures and the rate at which the bone loss is occurring in the body.
- Blood tests
- Spine X-ray
- Spine CT
The bone mineral density tests deals with a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The results are measured by a T-score. If the T-score is -2.5 or lower, the diagnosis is osteoporosis. If the T-score is between -1.0 and -2.5, the patient is considered to show osteopenia (a reduction in bone mass, not as severe as osteoporosis).
Treatments:
There are a number of treatments available which bring relief to a person dealing with osteoporosis. Initially, the doctor recommends healthy fruits and vegetables especially ones containing Vitamin C. Calcium supplements are also given along with to increase the calcium content in the bones. If osteoporosis is at a very advanced stage, treatments such as physiotherapy or estrogen replacement therapy are given.
Little did Anna realize that she was facing an acute problem. She underwent blood tests and bone density tests. She has been advised to take calcium supplements all her life and regular physiotherapy sessions for at least two months. Though she has regained health, she firmly believes in visiting a doctor before the pain gets excruciating and intolerable. As they say, prevention is the best cure.
Anna had been experiencing slight pain in her shoulders and lower back for sometime. Assuming that it was due to fatigue as a part of old age, she overlooked the symptoms. Little did she know that it was osteoporosis, the ‘silent disease’ creeping into her body making her bones fragile.
Very often, the patient having osteoporosis does not feel sick; hence the problem is not diagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage. As osteoporosis progresses, its symptoms start becoming evident in the form of severe back pain, or hampering the daily routine activities which begin to get extremely tiring. Osteoporosis weakens the bones leading to thinning of bone tissue and loss of bone density; a common factor being age, found mostly in women over the age of 50. The hip, spine and wrist are especially vulnerable to fractures even from minor injuries.
Common symptoms occurring late in the disease are:
- Back pain slowly leading to a bent back, called a dowager's hump (kyphosis) as the bones of the spine gradually collapse.
- Cramps in the legs
- Shoulder and Neck pain
- Loss of height
- Tooth loss due to a weaker jawbone structure.
- Fatigue
- Knee pain indicating other health problems such as arthritis.
- Pain in the bones or muscles, particularly of the back.
As the symptoms don’t appear early, it is often difficult to get treatment at the right time. However, a few tests are available to detect the stage of osteoporosis in the patient and the corresponding treatment provided.
Diagnosis methods:
- Bone density tests: Specialized tests which measure the bone density in various parts of the body. They measure the rate at which the patient is more susceptible to fractures and the rate at which the bone loss is occurring in the body.
- Blood tests
- Spine X-ray
- Spine CT
The bone mineral density tests deals with a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The results are measured by a T-score. If the T-score is -2.5 or lower, the diagnosis is osteoporosis. If the T-score is between -1.0 and -2.5, the patient is considered to show osteopenia (a reduction in bone mass, not as severe as osteoporosis).
Treatments:
There are a number of treatments available which bring relief to a person dealing with osteoporosis. Initially, the doctor recommends healthy fruits and vegetables especially ones containing Vitamin C. Calcium supplements are also given along with to increase the calcium content in the bones. If osteoporosis is at a very advanced stage, treatments such as physiotherapy or estrogen replacement therapy are given.
Little did Anna realize that she was facing an acute problem. She underwent blood tests and bone density tests. She has been advised to take calcium supplements all her life and regular physiotherapy sessions for at least two months. Though she has regained health, she firmly believes in visiting a doctor before the pain gets excruciating and intolerable. As they say, prevention is the best cure.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Alpha
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "How did it become yours? Write a story about the first pet you remember owning."
My first pet came as a birthday gift from my parents. A cute, small, roly-poly, furry white Pomeranian dog. We named her Alpha. She was the smallest thing I had ever seen or owned. Being in a hostel I got only a few months to be with her. But the attachment grew like no one else. When I left for school, she didn’t eat for days. Slowly she began getting attached to my mother. She was such a friendly and lovable dog. She used to caress my mom’s hair and my mom would go off to sleep. She never used to bother anyone with her barks. Just a small pet with loving eyes and a golden heart. She used to play with the ball or have fun while bathing and splashing water on us. I remember shampooing her hair and she would smell great. I would feel like hugging her even more. I still remember her first photograph taken with a doll: to this day one still feels looking at that photograph that there is a stuff toy sitting near a doll…
We had to let her go to a village where she could have fresh air. We used to live in small flats and Alpha was growing old and needed space to just sit and relax the whole day. The parting was painful, more for my mom than me. She still lives in our hearts and fond memories of hers keep coming back to this day. She had grown so attached to all of us. She had become truly ours…
My first pet came as a birthday gift from my parents. A cute, small, roly-poly, furry white Pomeranian dog. We named her Alpha. She was the smallest thing I had ever seen or owned. Being in a hostel I got only a few months to be with her. But the attachment grew like no one else. When I left for school, she didn’t eat for days. Slowly she began getting attached to my mother. She was such a friendly and lovable dog. She used to caress my mom’s hair and my mom would go off to sleep. She never used to bother anyone with her barks. Just a small pet with loving eyes and a golden heart. She used to play with the ball or have fun while bathing and splashing water on us. I remember shampooing her hair and she would smell great. I would feel like hugging her even more. I still remember her first photograph taken with a doll: to this day one still feels looking at that photograph that there is a stuff toy sitting near a doll…
We had to let her go to a village where she could have fresh air. We used to live in small flats and Alpha was growing old and needed space to just sit and relax the whole day. The parting was painful, more for my mom than me. She still lives in our hearts and fond memories of hers keep coming back to this day. She had grown so attached to all of us. She had become truly ours…
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Boredom
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "What goes on in your head? To not be bored, people often do interesting stuff. Write about a 'game' you play with the world in order to 'kill' boredom."
Boredom is a state of monotony in the mind. Though people tend to blame boredom on circumstances, it is usually themselves they are bored with. It could be due to problems or one is profoundly dissatisfied with his/her life. Prolonged boredom can lead to depression or a drug addiction. Boredom can also be linked to mental fatigue or due to the same tasks being performed everyday. Techniques are available to kill boredom.
I do feel bored and weary like all human beings; due to the same monotonous activities being carried on day after day. Going out with friends or shopping is a great way to kill boredom before it becomes a parasite leading one to depression. I also kill boredom by watching a movie, reading a book or simply playing a game.
Games tend to be usually indoor games such as computer games which are available 24hrs on the internet. A few of my favourite games are the card games such as FreeCell, hearts and solitaire. Also many game sites are available which can help you get out of boredom.
It is important to get out of boredom, find a focus in life and have something to live for. Be it for family or for oneself, you can’t let your life become meaningless with boredom. A sure cure to boredom according to Ellen Parr:
The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.
Boredom is a state of monotony in the mind. Though people tend to blame boredom on circumstances, it is usually themselves they are bored with. It could be due to problems or one is profoundly dissatisfied with his/her life. Prolonged boredom can lead to depression or a drug addiction. Boredom can also be linked to mental fatigue or due to the same tasks being performed everyday. Techniques are available to kill boredom.
I do feel bored and weary like all human beings; due to the same monotonous activities being carried on day after day. Going out with friends or shopping is a great way to kill boredom before it becomes a parasite leading one to depression. I also kill boredom by watching a movie, reading a book or simply playing a game.
Games tend to be usually indoor games such as computer games which are available 24hrs on the internet. A few of my favourite games are the card games such as FreeCell, hearts and solitaire. Also many game sites are available which can help you get out of boredom.
It is important to get out of boredom, find a focus in life and have something to live for. Be it for family or for oneself, you can’t let your life become meaningless with boredom. A sure cure to boredom according to Ellen Parr:
The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Kids
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why are kids different? List five things kids do that adults usually do not. Then, work as many items from your list into a piece of writing."
5 things which kids do and adults don't:
Kids jump from one place to the next
Make things messy while eating
Make a mess while drawing, painting, spoiling sofas and sheets
Kids scream and screech and fight with each other while playing
Kids are very stubborn - When they want something, they want it right then, cannot wait
My daughter who is two years old firmly believes in colouring and drawing all over the house, especially on the sofa and bed sheets, but leaves the drawing book neat and clean. Though she begins to colour on the drawing book; as soon as I am out of the room, she immediately moves to places she shouldn’t. Our walls and sofas have been cleaned a 1000 times by now. She is also very stubborn. When she wants something, especially something to eat, she wants it right then. If I ask her to wait, she simply doesn’t, making me leave all my present work and attending to her first. But all kids have a similar nature. My daughter’s friends’ too are extremely stubborn. Though they all play together, screaming and fighting is a regular affair. Sometimes it gets difficult to control them.
Adults are usually different. They are not expected to do such tasks. After all, we are the ones who have to show the right path to our kids and set an example.
5 things which kids do and adults don't:
Kids jump from one place to the next
Make things messy while eating
Make a mess while drawing, painting, spoiling sofas and sheets
Kids scream and screech and fight with each other while playing
Kids are very stubborn - When they want something, they want it right then, cannot wait
My daughter who is two years old firmly believes in colouring and drawing all over the house, especially on the sofa and bed sheets, but leaves the drawing book neat and clean. Though she begins to colour on the drawing book; as soon as I am out of the room, she immediately moves to places she shouldn’t. Our walls and sofas have been cleaned a 1000 times by now. She is also very stubborn. When she wants something, especially something to eat, she wants it right then. If I ask her to wait, she simply doesn’t, making me leave all my present work and attending to her first. But all kids have a similar nature. My daughter’s friends’ too are extremely stubborn. Though they all play together, screaming and fighting is a regular affair. Sometimes it gets difficult to control them.
Adults are usually different. They are not expected to do such tasks. After all, we are the ones who have to show the right path to our kids and set an example.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Shades of Green
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Is it a primary color or a mixed one? Write about the best color to come out of a crayon box...in your opinion."
Additive Primary color – Green
Green Color – A perception of light which has a spectrum with a wavelength of 520-570 nanometres. It is created by the mixing of yellow and blue color.
Connotation to the green color can be made to numerous things, some of them being:
Green Politics – A political ideology which emphasises on environmental goals such as ecology conservation and peace movements. This is achieved through non-violence and social justice through the clique of Green movement.
Green Environment and Green Living– It is all about Living in an earth-friendly environment. With global warming increasing at an alarming rate, it is becoming increasingly important for each individual to contribute in his/her own way to keep the environment green by recycling and reusing products, planting trees, conserving energy and saving money and water.
Green Tea – Originated in China, Green tea is made solely from the plant Camellia sinensis that has undergone minimal oxidation during processing. It is becoming common in Asia, Japan and the Middle East. Green tea’s health benefits have suggested a reduction in heart diseases. Its widespread awareness has led it to replace Black Tea in the West.
Go Green – Unplug appliances when not in use, save on gas by riding or walking, eat vegetarian, use second-hand products, borrowing from libraries and not buying thereby saves money, skipping bottled water and drinking from the tap, again saving money, donate and recycle electronics, make your own cleaning supplies by using baking powder, vinegar, lemon and soap. Source: www.worldwatch.org
With ‘green’ having so many effects, isn’t it natural to be labelled as the best color coming out of the crayon box!
Additive Primary color – Green
Green Color – A perception of light which has a spectrum with a wavelength of 520-570 nanometres. It is created by the mixing of yellow and blue color.
Connotation to the green color can be made to numerous things, some of them being:
Green Politics – A political ideology which emphasises on environmental goals such as ecology conservation and peace movements. This is achieved through non-violence and social justice through the clique of Green movement.
Green Environment and Green Living– It is all about Living in an earth-friendly environment. With global warming increasing at an alarming rate, it is becoming increasingly important for each individual to contribute in his/her own way to keep the environment green by recycling and reusing products, planting trees, conserving energy and saving money and water.
Green Tea – Originated in China, Green tea is made solely from the plant Camellia sinensis that has undergone minimal oxidation during processing. It is becoming common in Asia, Japan and the Middle East. Green tea’s health benefits have suggested a reduction in heart diseases. Its widespread awareness has led it to replace Black Tea in the West.
Go Green – Unplug appliances when not in use, save on gas by riding or walking, eat vegetarian, use second-hand products, borrowing from libraries and not buying thereby saves money, skipping bottled water and drinking from the tap, again saving money, donate and recycle electronics, make your own cleaning supplies by using baking powder, vinegar, lemon and soap. Source: www.worldwatch.org
With ‘green’ having so many effects, isn’t it natural to be labelled as the best color coming out of the crayon box!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
October 10
World Mental Health Day
Started by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day is promoted to raise awareness about mental health and illnesses. Knowledge about mental health is raised through discussions, collection of funds, investments in prevention, rehabilitation programs and the treatment services.
Mental health is categorized not only by an absence of mental disorder; but also a state in which an individual is able to carry out his daily activities fruitfully and productively, leading a stress free life and contributing to the society.
Neurological and behavioural disorders are common all over the world; depression being one of the major forms. People suffering from mental problems not only suffer the physical aspect but also immense social isolation, beating, are left hungry and lead a poor quality of life. HIV/AIDS, violence and abuse are some of the behavioural health conditions leading to mental health problems. These are more prevalent in countries with low employment, less income, lack of education, gender bias and social stigma.
In developing and underdeveloped countries, resources for mental health services are extremely short. The governments and non-governmental organizations should be involved in funding programs and promoting awareness on mental health to be able to prevent disorders in childhood and adults. This can be done by a change in attitudes, increasing investments in mental health, policies and laws which improve human rights in mental health facilities, community care programs and professional organizations should come forward to help people with mental disorders.
WHO has initiated the development of human resources for mental health programs and is working with governments to promote mental health as there is no health without mental health.
Started by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day is promoted to raise awareness about mental health and illnesses. Knowledge about mental health is raised through discussions, collection of funds, investments in prevention, rehabilitation programs and the treatment services.
Mental health is categorized not only by an absence of mental disorder; but also a state in which an individual is able to carry out his daily activities fruitfully and productively, leading a stress free life and contributing to the society.
Neurological and behavioural disorders are common all over the world; depression being one of the major forms. People suffering from mental problems not only suffer the physical aspect but also immense social isolation, beating, are left hungry and lead a poor quality of life. HIV/AIDS, violence and abuse are some of the behavioural health conditions leading to mental health problems. These are more prevalent in countries with low employment, less income, lack of education, gender bias and social stigma.
In developing and underdeveloped countries, resources for mental health services are extremely short. The governments and non-governmental organizations should be involved in funding programs and promoting awareness on mental health to be able to prevent disorders in childhood and adults. This can be done by a change in attitudes, increasing investments in mental health, policies and laws which improve human rights in mental health facilities, community care programs and professional organizations should come forward to help people with mental disorders.
WHO has initiated the development of human resources for mental health programs and is working with governments to promote mental health as there is no health without mental health.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Child behaviour on Stealing
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why do kids do that? Write a poem or story (truth or fiction) about a child stealing something."
Jane was spending the day with her friend, Anna. Both had three year old daughters’ who got along very well.
Anna’s daughter Lara, took her friend Mary (Jane’s daughter), inside her room to play with toys. She showed her a toy cat which stood on a clock. A small toy though, Mary seemed to be very fascinated with it. She took the toy to play with. Finally, after a day well spent, it was time for Jane to get back home.
After a few days, Anna while dusting the house, realized that the toy cat was missing from its place. Anna searched the house high and low, but was unable to find it. She pounded over the last few days’ activities to figure out the place where she could have kept it. Then with a flash she remembered her friends’ daughter Mary playing with it. She was sure Mary had taken it with her.
Jane had told Anna about another incident of Mary stealing a pencil from a friend’s pencil box. When questioned about it, Mary had said that her friend had given it to her. When Jane had asked Mary’s friend, she said, ‘Mary has stolen my pencil. I never gave it to her.’ This was startling for Jane to digest. Mary then changed her stance to, ‘I liked it so I took it for a few days.’ Jane made Mary understand that it was wrong to take someone else’s things for even a few days. She had let it go with that without understanding the consequences of this small act.
Although Anna wanted to tell Jane about this theft so that she could make her daughter understand, Anna decided to leave the topic until touched by Jane herself.
With a few more days gone, Jane suddenly gave the toy cat to Anna, simply explaining that she had seen it in Mary’s hands, but had forgotten to tell Anna about it. It was then that Anna made Jane understand about the consequences of Mary stealing something and not being explained about not doing so. Jane understood and thanked Anna for her advice and support.
Often children tend to steal something from a friends’ house without knowing that they are not taking it to play with them, but actually stealing it. This tends to then grow into a habit of picking up anything from anybody’s house. It is a problem which needs to be addressed when a child does so the first time.
Children steal for a myriad of reasons, some of them purely unknown even to them. At the tender age of three and above, stealing takes place to either impress someone else or possess something which they don’t have based purely on impulsiveness. They steal only because they want something very badly which their friend possesses. Stealing is also possible if there is a world of mixed emotions going on in the child’s mind who wants to take control of an object which others have.
If a child is caught stealing, or is found in possession of something which does not belong to him/her, the parents should immediately:
• Show disapproval of the act performed by their child.
• Instead of whacking the child, it is important to make the child understand that it is unacceptable behaviour.
• Moral values and ethics should be explained.
• A basic attitude should be taught which is acceptable in the society; else he/she should be explained that they would be left out from the circle of friends. Kids believe in being accepted in their friends’ circle and show immense pride in the gang they belong to.
• Make the child promise and keep to his/her promise of not stealing; by making the child understand that all his/her action/behaviour are being watched upon.
• It’s important for the parents to understand if it is an ongoing behaviour or just a once/twice activity.
Jane realized her mistake of lettings things go. She was worried. But with Anna’s inputs on stealing, Jane again questioned Mary on taking the toy cat to which Mary responded, ‘I simply took it because I liked it.’ It then was that Jane made Mary understand that this was becoming an unacceptable behaviour and if done once more, Jane would not only stop talking to Mary, she would cut her pocket money as well. But she also made Mary understand that stealing was wrong. She ensured that Mary said sorry to Anna so that she would feel ashamed herself and would never do so again. Jane explained the consequences of stealing to Mary and of her friends leaving her alone. She made Mary promise that she would never do so again and her behaviour was being continuously watched.
Mary was deeply ashamed on her behaviour and since then has not stolen anything.
Jane was spending the day with her friend, Anna. Both had three year old daughters’ who got along very well.
Anna’s daughter Lara, took her friend Mary (Jane’s daughter), inside her room to play with toys. She showed her a toy cat which stood on a clock. A small toy though, Mary seemed to be very fascinated with it. She took the toy to play with. Finally, after a day well spent, it was time for Jane to get back home.
After a few days, Anna while dusting the house, realized that the toy cat was missing from its place. Anna searched the house high and low, but was unable to find it. She pounded over the last few days’ activities to figure out the place where she could have kept it. Then with a flash she remembered her friends’ daughter Mary playing with it. She was sure Mary had taken it with her.
Jane had told Anna about another incident of Mary stealing a pencil from a friend’s pencil box. When questioned about it, Mary had said that her friend had given it to her. When Jane had asked Mary’s friend, she said, ‘Mary has stolen my pencil. I never gave it to her.’ This was startling for Jane to digest. Mary then changed her stance to, ‘I liked it so I took it for a few days.’ Jane made Mary understand that it was wrong to take someone else’s things for even a few days. She had let it go with that without understanding the consequences of this small act.
Although Anna wanted to tell Jane about this theft so that she could make her daughter understand, Anna decided to leave the topic until touched by Jane herself.
With a few more days gone, Jane suddenly gave the toy cat to Anna, simply explaining that she had seen it in Mary’s hands, but had forgotten to tell Anna about it. It was then that Anna made Jane understand about the consequences of Mary stealing something and not being explained about not doing so. Jane understood and thanked Anna for her advice and support.
Often children tend to steal something from a friends’ house without knowing that they are not taking it to play with them, but actually stealing it. This tends to then grow into a habit of picking up anything from anybody’s house. It is a problem which needs to be addressed when a child does so the first time.
Children steal for a myriad of reasons, some of them purely unknown even to them. At the tender age of three and above, stealing takes place to either impress someone else or possess something which they don’t have based purely on impulsiveness. They steal only because they want something very badly which their friend possesses. Stealing is also possible if there is a world of mixed emotions going on in the child’s mind who wants to take control of an object which others have.
If a child is caught stealing, or is found in possession of something which does not belong to him/her, the parents should immediately:
• Show disapproval of the act performed by their child.
• Instead of whacking the child, it is important to make the child understand that it is unacceptable behaviour.
• Moral values and ethics should be explained.
• A basic attitude should be taught which is acceptable in the society; else he/she should be explained that they would be left out from the circle of friends. Kids believe in being accepted in their friends’ circle and show immense pride in the gang they belong to.
• Make the child promise and keep to his/her promise of not stealing; by making the child understand that all his/her action/behaviour are being watched upon.
• It’s important for the parents to understand if it is an ongoing behaviour or just a once/twice activity.
Jane realized her mistake of lettings things go. She was worried. But with Anna’s inputs on stealing, Jane again questioned Mary on taking the toy cat to which Mary responded, ‘I simply took it because I liked it.’ It then was that Jane made Mary understand that this was becoming an unacceptable behaviour and if done once more, Jane would not only stop talking to Mary, she would cut her pocket money as well. But she also made Mary understand that stealing was wrong. She ensured that Mary said sorry to Anna so that she would feel ashamed herself and would never do so again. Jane explained the consequences of stealing to Mary and of her friends leaving her alone. She made Mary promise that she would never do so again and her behaviour was being continuously watched.
Mary was deeply ashamed on her behaviour and since then has not stolen anything.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Questioning Life
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "If life was a multiple choice test, what would be the first five questions on yours? Write the questions and their multiple choice answers."
Everyone has their own share of ups and downs. And it’s the failures from which we learn our lessons. Or rather we should. Else we would keep repeating the same mistake again and again. We ought to take responsibility for our own actions and be accountable for the wrong choices we make/have made, even if what we thought then seemed to be right. Life is an ongoing journey or learning, unlearning and learning again.
If life was a multiple choice test, my first five questions would be:
Am I content with the life I am leading?
Yes
No
Average
Wish more
Am not sure
What is the one thing I would like to change?
Carefree attitude
Stubbornness and anger
Lack of hard work
All of the above
Has the purpose of my life been accomplished?
Yes
No
An ongoing task
Am not sure
Have I achieved the goals in my career?
Yes
No
On the road
An ongoing task
Not interested
Am I responsible towards the people closest to me?
Yes
No
Average
Wish I could do more
There are many more things which a person wishes from life. It’s the ability to work hard which leads the path to success. The desire to excel should show in each path we partake.
Everyone has their own share of ups and downs. And it’s the failures from which we learn our lessons. Or rather we should. Else we would keep repeating the same mistake again and again. We ought to take responsibility for our own actions and be accountable for the wrong choices we make/have made, even if what we thought then seemed to be right. Life is an ongoing journey or learning, unlearning and learning again.
If life was a multiple choice test, my first five questions would be:
Am I content with the life I am leading?
Yes
No
Average
Wish more
Am not sure
What is the one thing I would like to change?
Carefree attitude
Stubbornness and anger
Lack of hard work
All of the above
Has the purpose of my life been accomplished?
Yes
No
An ongoing task
Am not sure
Have I achieved the goals in my career?
Yes
No
On the road
An ongoing task
Not interested
Am I responsible towards the people closest to me?
Yes
No
Average
Wish I could do more
There are many more things which a person wishes from life. It’s the ability to work hard which leads the path to success. The desire to excel should show in each path we partake.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Desert
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Can you write using imagery? Without thinking too much about it, write down either the word 'hot'; or the word 'cold'; Then write down next to it either the word 'wet' or the word 'dry.' Now, write a descriptive piece that attempts to make the reader feel the two words you've written down."
Hot and Dry: Desert
Imagine standing in the midst of a desert, on a hot and dry day, where only sand dunes can be seen for miles, and plants and insects as your companion!
A desert is that stretch of land which receives very little precipitation – less than ten inches per year. One third of the earth’s surface is a desert. Hot deserts have high daytime temperature and low night time temperature. Many deserts are formed by rain shadows where the mountains block the precipitation from reaching the desert.
Deserts can be classified in four major categories:
• Hot and dry
• Semiarid
• Coastal
• Cold
Sahara desert in Northern Africa is the largest hot and dry/non-polar desert in the world covering 9 million square km and 12 countries. The largest polar desert is the Antarctica desert followed by the Arctic desert.
Sand covers about 20 percent of the earth’s desert. The remaining surfaces constitute bedrock outcrops, desert soils, desert lakes and oases. Several types of dunes such as barchan, longitudinal, seif and star dunes exist across the desert.
There are six forms of deserts:
• Mountain and basin deserts
• Hamada deserts consisting of plateau landforms
• Regs, constituting rock pavements
• Formation by sand seas called Ergs
• Intermontane Basins
• Badlands, located at the margins of arid lands comprising clay-rich soil
Soil is usually course-textured, shallow and rocky in deserts. Fauna on the desert includes kangaroo rat, lizards and rabbits, apart from other insects, snakes and birds. In the Sahara region, camels and goats are the most domesticated animals. Flora includes leaves which are replete with water-conserving characteristics. Plants are mainly ground-hugging shrubs and short woody trees which tend to be small and thick. Cactus, turpentine bush, prickly pears, sotol, ephedras are some of the plants which grow in the deserts.
The desert environment is highly unsuitable for humans. However, the most traditional human life is the nomadic tribes such as Bedouin, Tuareg and Pueblo.
Deserts contain a great amount of mineral resources. Though deserts are flat and featureless, they are being seen as sources of solar energy.
Hot and Dry: Desert
Imagine standing in the midst of a desert, on a hot and dry day, where only sand dunes can be seen for miles, and plants and insects as your companion!
A desert is that stretch of land which receives very little precipitation – less than ten inches per year. One third of the earth’s surface is a desert. Hot deserts have high daytime temperature and low night time temperature. Many deserts are formed by rain shadows where the mountains block the precipitation from reaching the desert.
Deserts can be classified in four major categories:
• Hot and dry
• Semiarid
• Coastal
• Cold
Sahara desert in Northern Africa is the largest hot and dry/non-polar desert in the world covering 9 million square km and 12 countries. The largest polar desert is the Antarctica desert followed by the Arctic desert.
Sand covers about 20 percent of the earth’s desert. The remaining surfaces constitute bedrock outcrops, desert soils, desert lakes and oases. Several types of dunes such as barchan, longitudinal, seif and star dunes exist across the desert.
There are six forms of deserts:
• Mountain and basin deserts
• Hamada deserts consisting of plateau landforms
• Regs, constituting rock pavements
• Formation by sand seas called Ergs
• Intermontane Basins
• Badlands, located at the margins of arid lands comprising clay-rich soil
Soil is usually course-textured, shallow and rocky in deserts. Fauna on the desert includes kangaroo rat, lizards and rabbits, apart from other insects, snakes and birds. In the Sahara region, camels and goats are the most domesticated animals. Flora includes leaves which are replete with water-conserving characteristics. Plants are mainly ground-hugging shrubs and short woody trees which tend to be small and thick. Cactus, turpentine bush, prickly pears, sotol, ephedras are some of the plants which grow in the deserts.
The desert environment is highly unsuitable for humans. However, the most traditional human life is the nomadic tribes such as Bedouin, Tuareg and Pueblo.
Deserts contain a great amount of mineral resources. Though deserts are flat and featureless, they are being seen as sources of solar energy.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Save the World
September 16
International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed September 16 as the International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that deplete the Ozone Layer.
This day is celebrated throughout the world by individuals, schools and organizations by promoting special programs and activities on saving the earth’s ozone layer and its significance in protecting the environment.
Background: A meeting was held in 1987 by the representatives from 24 countries in Montreal who declared that destruction of the ozone layer had to be stopped in order to protect the earth from environmental hazards; by getting rid of the substances that are a danger to the ozone layer. Hence, in 1994 the UN declared Sep. 16 (the day of the meeting) as the International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. It was first celebrated in 1995.
A few facts: The earth’s atmosphere is divided into several layers, the lowest being troposphere, and the next stratosphere. The ozone layer is the higher part of the stratosphere which absorbs the ultra violet radiation from the sun hence protecting the life on earth. Apart from natural resources like nitric oxide, hydroxyl, chlorine and bromine which can deplete the ozone layer, due to the increase in large quantities of manmade compounds [chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and bromofluorocarbons] the ozone shield is getting harmed. Continued damage shall augment lesser protection against the sun’s radiation which by reaching the earth’s surface can give rise to skin cancer, crop damage and cataracts. Hence, some countries such as US, Canada and Norway have banned CFCs containing aerosol sprays that are known to damage the ozone layer.
It is time for all countries to get together and ban substances which are a threat to life.
International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed September 16 as the International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that deplete the Ozone Layer.
This day is celebrated throughout the world by individuals, schools and organizations by promoting special programs and activities on saving the earth’s ozone layer and its significance in protecting the environment.
Background: A meeting was held in 1987 by the representatives from 24 countries in Montreal who declared that destruction of the ozone layer had to be stopped in order to protect the earth from environmental hazards; by getting rid of the substances that are a danger to the ozone layer. Hence, in 1994 the UN declared Sep. 16 (the day of the meeting) as the International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. It was first celebrated in 1995.
A few facts: The earth’s atmosphere is divided into several layers, the lowest being troposphere, and the next stratosphere. The ozone layer is the higher part of the stratosphere which absorbs the ultra violet radiation from the sun hence protecting the life on earth. Apart from natural resources like nitric oxide, hydroxyl, chlorine and bromine which can deplete the ozone layer, due to the increase in large quantities of manmade compounds [chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and bromofluorocarbons] the ozone shield is getting harmed. Continued damage shall augment lesser protection against the sun’s radiation which by reaching the earth’s surface can give rise to skin cancer, crop damage and cataracts. Hence, some countries such as US, Canada and Norway have banned CFCs containing aerosol sprays that are known to damage the ozone layer.
It is time for all countries to get together and ban substances which are a threat to life.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Perseverance
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Do they really give you ten-thousand words? Look at or think about the pictures on your walls. Write about one you've never written about."
A beautiful sunrise beyond the sea, where the sun’s rays fall on the tides and the sea cliff stands tall. And it says: Perseverance…Never give up, for that is the place and the time that the tide will turn.
This picture has been in my drawing room for the past one year. I walk past it everyday, take a cursory look at it and carry on with my household chores.
But there are times, when I just stand in front of it trying to amass its beauty and let the words sink in. It gives me a feeling of immense satisfaction. I draw inspiration and begin to believe in myself yet again, “Yes, I can write. I can make a career in writing even though I am not gifted with the art. There is no word such as impossible. I only have to strive hard to achieve my goals, maybe just a bit harder than others.”
This 17 word picture says a thousand words. It helps in my trying times. It pushes to strive for the goals and try to attain them it as there will be a day when things will be better; be it in writing or life. In life one has their ups and downs. The road is full of potholes, but the end is beautiful. Maybe it is far off, but success is sure to happen; only if we persevere.
The picture says it all: Take life as a challenge and work hard in all your endeavors. You will succeed.
A beautiful sunrise beyond the sea, where the sun’s rays fall on the tides and the sea cliff stands tall. And it says: Perseverance…Never give up, for that is the place and the time that the tide will turn.
This picture has been in my drawing room for the past one year. I walk past it everyday, take a cursory look at it and carry on with my household chores.
But there are times, when I just stand in front of it trying to amass its beauty and let the words sink in. It gives me a feeling of immense satisfaction. I draw inspiration and begin to believe in myself yet again, “Yes, I can write. I can make a career in writing even though I am not gifted with the art. There is no word such as impossible. I only have to strive hard to achieve my goals, maybe just a bit harder than others.”
This 17 word picture says a thousand words. It helps in my trying times. It pushes to strive for the goals and try to attain them it as there will be a day when things will be better; be it in writing or life. In life one has their ups and downs. The road is full of potholes, but the end is beautiful. Maybe it is far off, but success is sure to happen; only if we persevere.
The picture says it all: Take life as a challenge and work hard in all your endeavors. You will succeed.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Domestic Violence against Women
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "If you could dedicate your life to one noble cause, what would it be? Explain your choice."
The Beginning of an End...
I had presumed that domestic violence against women existed in the lower strata of society, or in remote villages where the woman is not aware of her rights. But a call from a friend proved me wrong. I was stunned. Her husband has pushed her and banged her head against the wall. She had retorted but he was too strong for her frail body to stop his deeds. It had carried on for five long years and no one knew about it, until SHE decided it was enough. Counseling from family and friends was of no help and they drifted apart. Like many others, she was a victim of domestic violence.
Statistics of Domestic violence revealed a horrifying reality:
A crime against women is committed every three minutes in India, according to India's National Crime Records Bureau.
One in four women has experienced domestic violence in her life in US, according to the National Institute of Justice, Extent, Nature and Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence.
Domestic Violence is a worldwide phenomenon existing in countries such as Canada, Switzerland, Egypt, Zambia and New Zealand.
Irrespective of caste, economic status, religion or education, a woman is tortured by her husband. Rape, dowry deaths, burns, driven to suicide and wife-beating are some common forms of domestic violence. Some are treated badly only due to the submissive nature of a woman.
I strongly feel that women are to be equally blamed for this mess in society. There is no place for gender discrimination. Women need to understand this. They do not deserve abuse. Women themselves have to put an end to this cruelty. Punishments need to be implemented against those who violate domestic violence laws. But for this too, the woman needs to report this exploitation, rather than being scared and continue getting harassed.
If I could dedicate my life to one noble cause, it would be this – the abolition of domestic violence from all households across the globe. I strongly believe that no woman deserves ill-treatment. Knowledge of rights and domestic violence acts across the world is important for every woman to be able to stand up against all crimes. She is not the weaker section. A woman will continue dealing with troubled relationships and mistreatment if she does not put an end to it. She needn’t be scared of being barred from the society or from having no home for protecting herself against injustice. There are organizations which give shelter to such women. It takes courage to take that one step against violence but it HAS to be taken, else she will never be free from the syndrome of domestic violence.
A woman is her best savior.
The Beginning of an End...
I had presumed that domestic violence against women existed in the lower strata of society, or in remote villages where the woman is not aware of her rights. But a call from a friend proved me wrong. I was stunned. Her husband has pushed her and banged her head against the wall. She had retorted but he was too strong for her frail body to stop his deeds. It had carried on for five long years and no one knew about it, until SHE decided it was enough. Counseling from family and friends was of no help and they drifted apart. Like many others, she was a victim of domestic violence.
Statistics of Domestic violence revealed a horrifying reality:
A crime against women is committed every three minutes in India, according to India's National Crime Records Bureau.
One in four women has experienced domestic violence in her life in US, according to the National Institute of Justice, Extent, Nature and Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence.
Domestic Violence is a worldwide phenomenon existing in countries such as Canada, Switzerland, Egypt, Zambia and New Zealand.
Irrespective of caste, economic status, religion or education, a woman is tortured by her husband. Rape, dowry deaths, burns, driven to suicide and wife-beating are some common forms of domestic violence. Some are treated badly only due to the submissive nature of a woman.
I strongly feel that women are to be equally blamed for this mess in society. There is no place for gender discrimination. Women need to understand this. They do not deserve abuse. Women themselves have to put an end to this cruelty. Punishments need to be implemented against those who violate domestic violence laws. But for this too, the woman needs to report this exploitation, rather than being scared and continue getting harassed.
If I could dedicate my life to one noble cause, it would be this – the abolition of domestic violence from all households across the globe. I strongly believe that no woman deserves ill-treatment. Knowledge of rights and domestic violence acts across the world is important for every woman to be able to stand up against all crimes. She is not the weaker section. A woman will continue dealing with troubled relationships and mistreatment if she does not put an end to it. She needn’t be scared of being barred from the society or from having no home for protecting herself against injustice. There are organizations which give shelter to such women. It takes courage to take that one step against violence but it HAS to be taken, else she will never be free from the syndrome of domestic violence.
A woman is her best savior.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Fashion Revisited
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "At the time, did you think it was dumb or that it was cool? Write about a time you wore an outfit or costume you now realize was ridiculous."
I always thought it was highly dumb, probably the most foolish outfit I have ever worn in my life…
I had finished my schooling and entered college. As newcomers, my friends and I were always running away from getting ragged by seniors. Nevertheless, we were finally caught. The first day went off decently with only singing for them. I should say decently as singing and dancing does not consitute the term 'harassment'. After some singing, jokes and poetry sessions (about which I knew nothing) and dancing, we were left off for the day. Since it was just the beginning there was hardly any studying and the lecturers too were settling in for the term.
Finally the bell rang, and we were mighty pleased that it was the end of the day. But we didn’t know what followed. Before we left the classroom, we were told: “Guys, for tomorrow, you have a dress code – tie up your hair soaked in oil and wear a salwar kurta. But remember, the salwar, kurta and chunni should not be of the same color.” When we heard about it we thought it was ridiculous, but then probably even if one wears different colors, you can still pull it off. But that was not to be. They all had to be of colors which don’t match.
I came back home and told my mom about it. She began laughing and couldn’t stop. Finally she suggested wearing white, orange and green. Not too bad. The day arrived and I got ready. When I finished dressing, I couldn’t stop laughing and cursing the seniors. I was looking funny. Traveling to college was by public transportation – bus. But that day, I got after my dad and asked him to drop me and pick me up. Anyhow, when we all reached college, we were obviously the laughing stock by spectators who were not only other girls, but professors too. They all knew it was a part of ragging, but we were all looking so silly that we all just ran off to our class and were inside the whole day. Finally the day ended again, but this time it was different. We had made friends with our seniors who were extremely nice people. They assured us help in our class notes and otherwise if we ever needed them in college.
Ironically, the bad day ended with new formed relationships which were to last a lifetime.
I always thought it was highly dumb, probably the most foolish outfit I have ever worn in my life…
I had finished my schooling and entered college. As newcomers, my friends and I were always running away from getting ragged by seniors. Nevertheless, we were finally caught. The first day went off decently with only singing for them. I should say decently as singing and dancing does not consitute the term 'harassment'. After some singing, jokes and poetry sessions (about which I knew nothing) and dancing, we were left off for the day. Since it was just the beginning there was hardly any studying and the lecturers too were settling in for the term.
Finally the bell rang, and we were mighty pleased that it was the end of the day. But we didn’t know what followed. Before we left the classroom, we were told: “Guys, for tomorrow, you have a dress code – tie up your hair soaked in oil and wear a salwar kurta. But remember, the salwar, kurta and chunni should not be of the same color.” When we heard about it we thought it was ridiculous, but then probably even if one wears different colors, you can still pull it off. But that was not to be. They all had to be of colors which don’t match.
I came back home and told my mom about it. She began laughing and couldn’t stop. Finally she suggested wearing white, orange and green. Not too bad. The day arrived and I got ready. When I finished dressing, I couldn’t stop laughing and cursing the seniors. I was looking funny. Traveling to college was by public transportation – bus. But that day, I got after my dad and asked him to drop me and pick me up. Anyhow, when we all reached college, we were obviously the laughing stock by spectators who were not only other girls, but professors too. They all knew it was a part of ragging, but we were all looking so silly that we all just ran off to our class and were inside the whole day. Finally the day ended again, but this time it was different. We had made friends with our seniors who were extremely nice people. They assured us help in our class notes and otherwise if we ever needed them in college.
Ironically, the bad day ended with new formed relationships which were to last a lifetime.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Pet Peeves
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why wasn't it first on your list? List five or six of your pet peeves. Write about one of the later peeves on your list."
Some of my greatest annoyances (in decreasing order) are:
- Anyone digging their nose
- When I am speaking with a friend, someone else speaks in between – a friend’s perpetual problem
- Anyone who dips their biscuit in tea
- If clothes are scattered all over the house
- I arrange the drawing room, and the next minute my daughter pulls everything apart
There are times when I get exhausted doing the household chores. My last job usually is to organize things in the drawing room incase there is a visitor - usually all my daughter’s toys are all over the floor, sofa, anywhere u name it. But the minute my task is complete, my daughter invariably begins hers. She starts throwing down everything from the shelves, one by one till it is empty. She scatters everything on the floor till she believes that there is absolutely nothing left which looks good in the drawing room. All items arranged on the sofa to the center table are on the floor too. Imagine her throwing a handkerchief (if there in one by mistake) from the sofa only to make place for her to sit.
But is there anything I can do apart from either yelling or pulling my hair? NO. Because she just won’t listen. She feels it’s her duty to create a mess. After some stares at each other appears her smile. Her proud smile of satisfaction. It seems to give her immense pleasure in irritating me. But she’s a darling after all. My daughter, just two years old, is the sweetest person on earth. I guess that’s the way all parents feel about their kid. Her naughtiness, her pranks, her unintentional acts… are all so adorable, that I just can’t let myself scream at her. Her eyes look at me as if they are telling me that it’s an achievement, a feat accomplished and “see, I have helped you clean the entire drawing room and you can't even say Thanks!”
Do I really need all that help? Well, sometimes I wonder why I even got in that situation in the first place. Why did I have to set things right and wait for my daughter to mess it all, not once but innumerable times. But I really have no answer. I have to at least try and tidy up her favorite spot – the drawing room.
All I know is that it cannot be at the first position in the list of my pet peeves. Her innocent smile takes away all that credit. I would rather get more annoyed at other situations than this.
Some of my greatest annoyances (in decreasing order) are:
- Anyone digging their nose
- When I am speaking with a friend, someone else speaks in between – a friend’s perpetual problem
- Anyone who dips their biscuit in tea
- If clothes are scattered all over the house
- I arrange the drawing room, and the next minute my daughter pulls everything apart
There are times when I get exhausted doing the household chores. My last job usually is to organize things in the drawing room incase there is a visitor - usually all my daughter’s toys are all over the floor, sofa, anywhere u name it. But the minute my task is complete, my daughter invariably begins hers. She starts throwing down everything from the shelves, one by one till it is empty. She scatters everything on the floor till she believes that there is absolutely nothing left which looks good in the drawing room. All items arranged on the sofa to the center table are on the floor too. Imagine her throwing a handkerchief (if there in one by mistake) from the sofa only to make place for her to sit.
But is there anything I can do apart from either yelling or pulling my hair? NO. Because she just won’t listen. She feels it’s her duty to create a mess. After some stares at each other appears her smile. Her proud smile of satisfaction. It seems to give her immense pleasure in irritating me. But she’s a darling after all. My daughter, just two years old, is the sweetest person on earth. I guess that’s the way all parents feel about their kid. Her naughtiness, her pranks, her unintentional acts… are all so adorable, that I just can’t let myself scream at her. Her eyes look at me as if they are telling me that it’s an achievement, a feat accomplished and “see, I have helped you clean the entire drawing room and you can't even say Thanks!”
Do I really need all that help? Well, sometimes I wonder why I even got in that situation in the first place. Why did I have to set things right and wait for my daughter to mess it all, not once but innumerable times. But I really have no answer. I have to at least try and tidy up her favorite spot – the drawing room.
All I know is that it cannot be at the first position in the list of my pet peeves. Her innocent smile takes away all that credit. I would rather get more annoyed at other situations than this.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
August 9, 1965
Singapore National Day
The National Day of the smallest nation in South East Asia, Singapore, is celebrated on Aug. 9 every year with great gusto. National Day Parade, cultural programs and fireworks are the highlights of this day when Singapore became an independent democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations on Aug. 9, 1965. It also became a member of United Nations in the same year.
The small island of Singapore was the site of a Malay fishing village in close proximity to the Singapore River. Inhabited by a population who were mainly fishermen, this settlement had been controlled by the Portuguese and Dutch from the 16th to the 18th century. On Jan. 29, 1819, the British East India Company led by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles set foot on the island of Singapore. Due to its strategic location, Sir Thomas launched a trading post on the island, which functioned as a port along the spice route. This route became one of the most important commercial centres of the British Empire giving rise to British power in South East Asia. At this time, Singapore was controlled by a Malay Sultan – Sultan Hussein Shah. Signing of a treaty between John Crawford (the second resident of Singapore) and the Sultan and Temmenggong resulted in Singapore becoming a British colony in 1824.
During the Second World War, Singapore was occupied by the Japanese after the ‘Battle of Singapore’ which is termed as ‘Britain’s Greatest Defeat’ by Winston Churchill. However, Singapore reverted to British rule soon after the war ended in 1945. General Elections were held in 1955 which could not lead to complete self rule. Nevertheless, in the elections of 1959, the People’s Action Party won making Singapore a self governing state within the British Empire.
In August 1963, Singapore achieved its independence from Britain and merged with the Federation of Malaysia. A futile merger led to the segregation from Malaysia two years later and Singapore officially gained autonomy in 1965. The first National Day of Singapore was celebrated on August 9, 1966 in commemoration of Singapore’s independence.
The National Day of the smallest nation in South East Asia, Singapore, is celebrated on Aug. 9 every year with great gusto. National Day Parade, cultural programs and fireworks are the highlights of this day when Singapore became an independent democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations on Aug. 9, 1965. It also became a member of United Nations in the same year.
The small island of Singapore was the site of a Malay fishing village in close proximity to the Singapore River. Inhabited by a population who were mainly fishermen, this settlement had been controlled by the Portuguese and Dutch from the 16th to the 18th century. On Jan. 29, 1819, the British East India Company led by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles set foot on the island of Singapore. Due to its strategic location, Sir Thomas launched a trading post on the island, which functioned as a port along the spice route. This route became one of the most important commercial centres of the British Empire giving rise to British power in South East Asia. At this time, Singapore was controlled by a Malay Sultan – Sultan Hussein Shah. Signing of a treaty between John Crawford (the second resident of Singapore) and the Sultan and Temmenggong resulted in Singapore becoming a British colony in 1824.
During the Second World War, Singapore was occupied by the Japanese after the ‘Battle of Singapore’ which is termed as ‘Britain’s Greatest Defeat’ by Winston Churchill. However, Singapore reverted to British rule soon after the war ended in 1945. General Elections were held in 1955 which could not lead to complete self rule. Nevertheless, in the elections of 1959, the People’s Action Party won making Singapore a self governing state within the British Empire.
In August 1963, Singapore achieved its independence from Britain and merged with the Federation of Malaysia. A futile merger led to the segregation from Malaysia two years later and Singapore officially gained autonomy in 1965. The first National Day of Singapore was celebrated on August 9, 1966 in commemoration of Singapore’s independence.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Paris: A traveler’s paradise
Prompt: The Daily Topic: Where Does Real Magic Exist? Write About That Place.
An enchanting city sets a paradigm in itself. Situated on the River Seine, in northern France, this city truly captivates you with ecstasy. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world – Paris, encapsulates nobility and splendor. It is one of the world’s leading business, education, political, entertainment and fashion hub. Monuments and churches define architectural genius whereas innumerable museums showcase exquisite art and sculptures.
A few must sees in Paris:
- The Eiffel Tower: This symbol of Paris was built in 1889 for the International Exhibition of Paris; the architectural genius being Gustave Eiffel. It stands tall at 300 metres (320.75 m incl. antenna) weighing 7000 tons.
- Arc de Triomphe: This monument was completed in 1836 though was specially ordered to be made by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory in Austerlitz. It stands on 4 huge pillars showcasing 4 sculptures which commemorate The Triumph of 1810 (Cortot); Resistance, and Peace (both by Etex); and The Departure of the Volunteers or the La Marseillaise (Rude). The eternal flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the arc memorialize the dead of the two world wars.
- Notre-Dame de Paris: This grand cathedral was constructed between the years 1163 and 1345. This work of genius was conceived by Maurice de Sully during the reign of Louis VII. The ‘0 km’ mark on the square in front of the cathedral assists in computing road distances in France.
- Le Sacré Coeur: The design of this basilica by the architect Abadie, draws eternal reverence. Completed in 1914, it was sanctified only after the World War I. The interior of this church depicts Christ with outspread arms and consists of the world’s largest mosaics.
- Musée du Louvre: Walking into Louvre bestows one with bliss. This museum which was originally a fortress was constructed in the 12th century under Philip II, opened as a museum in 1793. It boasts of over 35,000 objects from the 6th century BC to the 19th century displayed in over 60,000 square meters. It is divided in 3 wings, namely Sully, Denon and Richelieu. The display of art is in eight curatorial departments consisting of paintings, prints, sculptures, Islamic art, and Egyptian, Greek, Eastern and Roman antiquities including its most prized possession: Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece - The Mona Lisa.
The list is endless. One can also visit the Palace of Versailles, Musée de Orsay, La Défense, La Sainte-Chapelle, the science museum, a shopper’s paradise: Galeries Lafayette, one of the most famous roads in the world: Champs-Élysées, Tuileries Gardens, the Bateaux Mouches or the boat rides on the river Seine which is incredibly pleasant, and many more.
Moving around is Paris is extremely easy with its well connected Metro, bus and RER syatem. Finally, don’t forget the French cuisine customarily accompanied with the famous French wine.
The aura of Paris and the desire to visit the city yet again stays in the mind of travelers for years to come.
An enchanting city sets a paradigm in itself. Situated on the River Seine, in northern France, this city truly captivates you with ecstasy. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world – Paris, encapsulates nobility and splendor. It is one of the world’s leading business, education, political, entertainment and fashion hub. Monuments and churches define architectural genius whereas innumerable museums showcase exquisite art and sculptures.
A few must sees in Paris:
- The Eiffel Tower: This symbol of Paris was built in 1889 for the International Exhibition of Paris; the architectural genius being Gustave Eiffel. It stands tall at 300 metres (320.75 m incl. antenna) weighing 7000 tons.
- Arc de Triomphe: This monument was completed in 1836 though was specially ordered to be made by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory in Austerlitz. It stands on 4 huge pillars showcasing 4 sculptures which commemorate The Triumph of 1810 (Cortot); Resistance, and Peace (both by Etex); and The Departure of the Volunteers or the La Marseillaise (Rude). The eternal flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the arc memorialize the dead of the two world wars.
- Notre-Dame de Paris: This grand cathedral was constructed between the years 1163 and 1345. This work of genius was conceived by Maurice de Sully during the reign of Louis VII. The ‘0 km’ mark on the square in front of the cathedral assists in computing road distances in France.
- Le Sacré Coeur: The design of this basilica by the architect Abadie, draws eternal reverence. Completed in 1914, it was sanctified only after the World War I. The interior of this church depicts Christ with outspread arms and consists of the world’s largest mosaics.
- Musée du Louvre: Walking into Louvre bestows one with bliss. This museum which was originally a fortress was constructed in the 12th century under Philip II, opened as a museum in 1793. It boasts of over 35,000 objects from the 6th century BC to the 19th century displayed in over 60,000 square meters. It is divided in 3 wings, namely Sully, Denon and Richelieu. The display of art is in eight curatorial departments consisting of paintings, prints, sculptures, Islamic art, and Egyptian, Greek, Eastern and Roman antiquities including its most prized possession: Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece - The Mona Lisa.
The list is endless. One can also visit the Palace of Versailles, Musée de Orsay, La Défense, La Sainte-Chapelle, the science museum, a shopper’s paradise: Galeries Lafayette, one of the most famous roads in the world: Champs-Élysées, Tuileries Gardens, the Bateaux Mouches or the boat rides on the river Seine which is incredibly pleasant, and many more.
Moving around is Paris is extremely easy with its well connected Metro, bus and RER syatem. Finally, don’t forget the French cuisine customarily accompanied with the famous French wine.
The aura of Paris and the desire to visit the city yet again stays in the mind of travelers for years to come.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
August 6, 1945
Hiroshima Day
‘Hiroshima Day’ is remembered in many parts of the world as a day of peacemaking. This day is dedicated to increase harmony and the awareness of stopping the global arms race. Peace rallies are commemorated in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the Japanese city of Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.
The end of World War II witnessed the atomic bombing of Hiroshima against Japan by the US. This attack was implemented at the orders of US President Harry S. Truman.
Hiroshima was targeted subject to the following criteria:
- A large urban area with more than 3 miles in diameter and would cause the utmost damage.
- It had not been attacked till Aug. 1945.
- It was a very important military center.
- It was an industrial area and the adjacent hills would increase the damage.
- Would cause a psychological effect on Japan.
- Importance of the nuclear weapon would be recognized.
The nuclear weapon or the “Little Boy” which dropped on Hiroshima killed 70,000 instantly and another 70,000 people died due to radiation burns, illness and malnutrition. Many more died in the following years from cancers which have been attributed to the radiation emitted from the atomic bombs. It instantly gave rise to fires destroying the city. "Practically all living things, human and animal, were literally seared to death," Japanese radio announcers said in a broadcast captured by Allied sources.
Japan, which had ignored the ultimatum of stopping the war, surrendered to the allied powers after a second bomb was dropped on its city of Nagasaki on Aug. 9, 1945; thereby officially ending the Pacific War and the World War II.
‘Hiroshima Day’ is remembered in many parts of the world as a day of peacemaking. This day is dedicated to increase harmony and the awareness of stopping the global arms race. Peace rallies are commemorated in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the Japanese city of Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.
The end of World War II witnessed the atomic bombing of Hiroshima against Japan by the US. This attack was implemented at the orders of US President Harry S. Truman.
Hiroshima was targeted subject to the following criteria:
- A large urban area with more than 3 miles in diameter and would cause the utmost damage.
- It had not been attacked till Aug. 1945.
- It was a very important military center.
- It was an industrial area and the adjacent hills would increase the damage.
- Would cause a psychological effect on Japan.
- Importance of the nuclear weapon would be recognized.
The nuclear weapon or the “Little Boy” which dropped on Hiroshima killed 70,000 instantly and another 70,000 people died due to radiation burns, illness and malnutrition. Many more died in the following years from cancers which have been attributed to the radiation emitted from the atomic bombs. It instantly gave rise to fires destroying the city. "Practically all living things, human and animal, were literally seared to death," Japanese radio announcers said in a broadcast captured by Allied sources.
Japan, which had ignored the ultimatum of stopping the war, surrendered to the allied powers after a second bomb was dropped on its city of Nagasaki on Aug. 9, 1945; thereby officially ending the Pacific War and the World War II.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Raison d'être
Prompt: The Daily Topic: Are You Or Aren't You Just Rationalizing? Write About The Difference Between Laziness And Writer's Block…According To You?
I had been procrastinating to write for quite some time. I thought I would pursue some courses in writing, and eventually write for magazines and newspapers. Little did I realize that writing is a skill, a craft which needs to be developed over time; by practice, by sheer concentration and dedication towards this skill.
I would certainly not call this laziness. It is a writer’s block….do I write well? Which topic, how should I begin the entire process of targeting a magazine or newspaper, what if I am rejected? Or am I just stuck with no clear objective in mind. It was nervousness and the fear of failure which prevented me from putting my thoughts on paper. The urge to write struck only when my husband reminded me that for the rest of my life I would only pursue courses and never accomplish the real task of crafting a piece, until I actually sat down to write one.
‘Laziness’ or ‘Indolence’ is the lack of inclination to perform an activity despite having the capability to do so. Motivation lacks when the need is productivity. As Henry Clay said “The time will come when winter will ask you what you were doing all summer.”
However, ‘Writer’s Block’ is the loss of morale which targets the writing professionals. Authors lose the ability to produce new work; either due to a complex task at hand or due to lack of inspiration or worse still, depression or financial problems. Some have taken years to get back to their profession or discontinued.
Both the troubles can be dealt with. Laziness can be triumphed over by figuring out the single concern which is haunting you. Ask yourself its importance in your life and convince yourself to do something about it. Decide a time, perform the task and reward yourself. Rewarding is a great incentive. Set goals and never give up.Writer’s Block too can be conquered with a few simple tasks. Schedule a time to write, irrespective of the quality of the prose and script. Join a writing group, find writing lessons, exercises, hire a mentor if necessary. As N. J. Higham said "Force yourself to write something, however clumsy it may be, for it is often easier to modify something you have written previously than to compose from scratch."
Writing cooking recipes or articles related to your field can also reconnect you with the writing world. Internet has opened millions of opportunities to new and established writers. Writing a blog can be a stepping stone, as in my case. This was backed by the need of the hour – a “writer’s CV” to compete against the many great writers in this world. Courses give you the knowledge. But writers should write!!!
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one."(Mark Twain)
I had been procrastinating to write for quite some time. I thought I would pursue some courses in writing, and eventually write for magazines and newspapers. Little did I realize that writing is a skill, a craft which needs to be developed over time; by practice, by sheer concentration and dedication towards this skill.
I would certainly not call this laziness. It is a writer’s block….do I write well? Which topic, how should I begin the entire process of targeting a magazine or newspaper, what if I am rejected? Or am I just stuck with no clear objective in mind. It was nervousness and the fear of failure which prevented me from putting my thoughts on paper. The urge to write struck only when my husband reminded me that for the rest of my life I would only pursue courses and never accomplish the real task of crafting a piece, until I actually sat down to write one.
‘Laziness’ or ‘Indolence’ is the lack of inclination to perform an activity despite having the capability to do so. Motivation lacks when the need is productivity. As Henry Clay said “The time will come when winter will ask you what you were doing all summer.”
However, ‘Writer’s Block’ is the loss of morale which targets the writing professionals. Authors lose the ability to produce new work; either due to a complex task at hand or due to lack of inspiration or worse still, depression or financial problems. Some have taken years to get back to their profession or discontinued.
Both the troubles can be dealt with. Laziness can be triumphed over by figuring out the single concern which is haunting you. Ask yourself its importance in your life and convince yourself to do something about it. Decide a time, perform the task and reward yourself. Rewarding is a great incentive. Set goals and never give up.Writer’s Block too can be conquered with a few simple tasks. Schedule a time to write, irrespective of the quality of the prose and script. Join a writing group, find writing lessons, exercises, hire a mentor if necessary. As N. J. Higham said "Force yourself to write something, however clumsy it may be, for it is often easier to modify something you have written previously than to compose from scratch."
Writing cooking recipes or articles related to your field can also reconnect you with the writing world. Internet has opened millions of opportunities to new and established writers. Writing a blog can be a stepping stone, as in my case. This was backed by the need of the hour – a “writer’s CV” to compete against the many great writers in this world. Courses give you the knowledge. But writers should write!!!
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one."(Mark Twain)
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Save Ooty
Prompt: The Daily Topic : Write About A Place In Danger Of Losing Its Wonderment.
‘Ooty’, also known as Udhagamandalam is the ‘Queen of Hill stations’ in India. This picturesque town boasts of lovely gardens, beautiful lakes and lush greenery. The terrific climate makes it all the more attractive for being a honeymooners’ paradise.
Ooty’s lakes and gardens remain an ideal spot and are flocked by tourists all through summers. However, over the years it has become highly urbanized with the population increasing at a high rate. There was a time when Ooty was absolutely pollution free but with the commercialization, a polluted atmosphere with lesser greenery encompasses Ooty. The dense forests and valleys in the surrounding areas too are drying up.
It is high time the government woke up before Ooty ends up becoming an ecological disaster.
‘Ooty’, also known as Udhagamandalam is the ‘Queen of Hill stations’ in India. This picturesque town boasts of lovely gardens, beautiful lakes and lush greenery. The terrific climate makes it all the more attractive for being a honeymooners’ paradise.
Ooty’s lakes and gardens remain an ideal spot and are flocked by tourists all through summers. However, over the years it has become highly urbanized with the population increasing at a high rate. There was a time when Ooty was absolutely pollution free but with the commercialization, a polluted atmosphere with lesser greenery encompasses Ooty. The dense forests and valleys in the surrounding areas too are drying up.
It is high time the government woke up before Ooty ends up becoming an ecological disaster.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
A Toddler's Joy Ride
Prompt: The Daily Topic: Plane, Train, Bus Or Taxi? Write About an Interesting Experience You Had On Public Transportation.
My husband and I take our 2 year old daughter for small trips in metros and buses. She enjoys them thoroughly and likes to stand on the bus seat, waving to the motorists passing by.
One day, I decided to take her out for lunch with some friends. The group comprised of 3 moms and 4 kids. It was a sunny day by the time we had started out. But during the bus ride, it began pouring heavily. The bus journey was around an hour so we weren’t too worried. In the beginning, the kids were sitting quietly and enjoying themselves. But with the pouring rain and the raindrops falling on the windowpanes began all the BAAOOOWs (synonym for WOW!), squeals and giggles. The two year olds had taken a fondness towards the rain. Something new for them each time they see it. My daughter, who had been as usual standing on the bus seat looking out, got down and began to jump. Looking at her, my friend’s daughter too joined in. And they slowly got uncontrollable. We tried to put them back on the seat, they just didn’t budge. We tried to tell them to stop jumping, as they would get hurt. That statement seemed to get in through one ear, and out of the other. It was ok till the time we were gawking at their pranks. But when they began squealing, it got embarrassing. Every two to three minutes, somebody would turn around to look at us with questioning eyes (why weren’t we being able to control our kids?). I think at least 10 people would have looked back to see as to what the chaos all about. Amidst all this commotion, we had also started screaming at the kids to stop their naughty endeavors. With some spankings, the two kids finally rested (their rest was standing on the bus seat!). Came the bus stop and we all jumped down heaving a sigh of relief that we had finally arrived for a lunch; which actually opened the doors for further mischief by the tiny tots!
My husband and I take our 2 year old daughter for small trips in metros and buses. She enjoys them thoroughly and likes to stand on the bus seat, waving to the motorists passing by.
One day, I decided to take her out for lunch with some friends. The group comprised of 3 moms and 4 kids. It was a sunny day by the time we had started out. But during the bus ride, it began pouring heavily. The bus journey was around an hour so we weren’t too worried. In the beginning, the kids were sitting quietly and enjoying themselves. But with the pouring rain and the raindrops falling on the windowpanes began all the BAAOOOWs (synonym for WOW!), squeals and giggles. The two year olds had taken a fondness towards the rain. Something new for them each time they see it. My daughter, who had been as usual standing on the bus seat looking out, got down and began to jump. Looking at her, my friend’s daughter too joined in. And they slowly got uncontrollable. We tried to put them back on the seat, they just didn’t budge. We tried to tell them to stop jumping, as they would get hurt. That statement seemed to get in through one ear, and out of the other. It was ok till the time we were gawking at their pranks. But when they began squealing, it got embarrassing. Every two to three minutes, somebody would turn around to look at us with questioning eyes (why weren’t we being able to control our kids?). I think at least 10 people would have looked back to see as to what the chaos all about. Amidst all this commotion, we had also started screaming at the kids to stop their naughty endeavors. With some spankings, the two kids finally rested (their rest was standing on the bus seat!). Came the bus stop and we all jumped down heaving a sigh of relief that we had finally arrived for a lunch; which actually opened the doors for further mischief by the tiny tots!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Introduction
Dear All,
Thank you for taking out time to visit this site.
My blog's title is "Bag of Thoughts". I will be concentrating on topics from the yahoo group called “The Daily Topic” and on "Today's Significance (Important 365 days)". I shall diversify as time progresses. This is just the beginning.
Thanks for walking with me.
Regards,
Payal
Thank you for taking out time to visit this site.
My blog's title is "Bag of Thoughts". I will be concentrating on topics from the yahoo group called “The Daily Topic” and on "Today's Significance (Important 365 days)". I shall diversify as time progresses. This is just the beginning.
Thanks for walking with me.
Regards,
Payal
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