something rotten in the state of denmark..

2011-11-15T12:28:00.001Z

I would trade all of my technology for an afternoon with Socrates.- Steve Jobs

2011-10-12T17:58:00.001+01:00

Many of you have probably seen the phenomenal acceptance speech that Steve Jobs gave at Stanford University's 2005 Commencement. It took me three days in total to write it down ; as well as to trying to understand and relate everything into my own life. I found it inspiring. I found it a privilege of taking it down part by part. Why? For my own personal references from time to time.

( Plus, I would like to share it with you). It serves me as a form of inspiration, giving me the encouragement, strength and faith that I have lost in the bleakest times.

I hope you find it just as engaging as I did, as well as to rekindle that inner flame, or strength that you have once lost.

I’m honoured to be with you today, for your commencement from one of the finest universities in the world. Truth be told, I never graduated from college and this is the closest I’ve ever gotten to a college graduation.

Today, I want to tell you three stories from my life, that’s it. No big deal.

Just three stories.

The first story is about connecting the dots.

I dropped out of every college, after the first six months, but stayed in as another drop-in for the next eighteen months or so, before I really quit. So, why I’d drop out?

It started before I was born. My biological mother was a young, unwed graduate student, and she decided to put me up for adoption. She felt very strongly that I should be adopted by college graduates. So, everything was all set, for me to be adopted by a lawyer and his wife. Except that, when I popped out, they decided at the last minute, that they had really wanted a girl.

So, my parents were on a waiting list, got a call in the middle of the night asking, “ We’ve got an unexpected baby boy ; Do you want him? “. They said; “Of course”. My biological mother found out later that my mother had never graduated from college, and my father had never graduated from high school. She refused to sign the adoption papers. She only relented a few months later, when my parents promised that I would go to college. This was the start of my life. And, seventeen years later I did go to college. But I naively chose a college which was almost as expensive as Stanford. And, all of working class parent’s savings was being spent my college tuition. After six months, I couldn’t see the value in it. I had no idea of what I wanted to do in my life, and no idea how college was going to help me to figure it out.

And, here I was, spending all the money my parents had saved their entire life. So, I decided to drop out, and trust that it would all turn out okay. It was pretty scary at the time. But, looking back it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The minute I dropped out, I could stop taking the classes that didn’t interest me, and begin dropping in the ones that were far more interesting. It wasn’t all romantic. I didn’t have a dorm room, so I slept on the floor in a friend’s room. I returned Coke bottles for the 5 ₵ deposit s to buy food with. And I would walk the seven miles across town, every Sunday night, to get a one good meal a week from the Hare Krishna Temple. I loved it.

And much of which I stumbled into, by following my curiosity and intuition turned out to be priceless later on. Let me give you one example . The college at that time, offered probably the best calligraphy instruction in the country. Throughout the campus, every poster , every label on every drawer was beautifully hand calligraphed. Because I had dropped out, and didn’t have to take the normal classes, I decided to take up a calligraphy class to learn how to do this. I learned about serif and san serif type phases , about varying the amount of space between letter combinations, about what makes great typography great. It was beautiful. It was historical. Artistically settle in a way that science cant capture. And, I found it fascinating. None of this had even the hope of practical application in my life.

But ,ten years later when we were designing the first MacInTouch computer, it all came back to me. And, we designed it all into the Mac. It was the first computer with beautiful typography. If I had never dropped in on that simple course in college, TheMac would never have had multiple typefaces or proportionately spaced fonts. And, since Windows just copied the Macs, it’s likely that no personal computer would have them. If I had ever dropped out, I would have never dropped in that calligraphy class. And personal computers might not have the wonderful typography that they do. Of course, it was impossible to connect the dots when I was in college. But, it was very, very, clear looking back ten years later. Again, you can’t connect the dots looking forward. You can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust, that somehow the dots would connect somehow in the future. You have to trust in something. Your gut. Destiny. Life. Karma. Or whatever. Because believing that dots would connect down the road, would give you the confidence to follow your heart even when it leads you to the off the well worn path and that would make all the difference.

My second story is about love and loss.

I was lucky. I found what I loved to do early in life. Wozniak and I started apple in my parent’s garage when I was twenty. We worked hard and in ten years, Apple had grown from just they two of us in the garage, into a two billion company with over four thousand employees. We just released our finest creation the MacInTouch a year earlier, and I had just turned thirty. And, then I got fired. How can you get fired from a company that you started? Well, as Apple grew, we hired someone I thought who was very talented to run the company with me. For a year or so, things went well. But, our visions of the future started to diverge. And, eventually we had a falling out. When we did, our board of directors sided with him and so at thirty I was out. And, very publicaly out. What had been the focus of my entire adult life was gone. And it was devastating. I really didn’t know what to do for a few months. I felt that I had let the previous generation of entrepreneurs down. That I had dropped the baton as it was being passed on to me. I met with David Pogue and Bob Noyce and tried to apologize for screwing up so badly. I was a public figure, and I even thought about running away from the valley. But, something slowly began to dawn on me. I still loved what I did. The turn of events that happened did not change Apple one bit. I’ve been rejected but I was still in love. And, so I decided to start over. I didn’t see it then, but it turned out that being fired from Apple was the best that could ever happened to me. The heaviness of being successful, was replaced with the lightness of being a beginner again, less sure about everything else. It freed me to let me to enter in to the most creative period of my life.

During the next five years, I started a company named Next, another company named Pixar and fell in love with an amazing woman who had become my wife . Pixar went on to create the first computer animated film, Toy Story. And, is now one of the most successful animation studios in the world. In a remarkable turn of events, Apple bought Next, and I returned to Apple. And the technology we developed at Next was at the heart of Apple’s current renaissance. And, Laurene and I have a wonderful family. I am pretty sure none of this would have happened if had not been fired from Apple. It was awful tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it. Sometimes, life is going to hit you with a brick, don’t lose faith. I’m convinced that the only thing that had kept me going, was that I loved what I did. You’ve got to find what you love. And, that is as true for your work as well as for your lovers. Your work is going to fill up a large part of your life. And, the only way to be truly satisfied is by believing what you’re doing, is great work. And, the only way to do great work , is to be able to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking and don’t settle. As of all matters of the heart, you will know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So, keep looking don’t settle.

My third story is about death.

When I was seventeen, I read a quote that when something like, If you live each day, as if it was your last, someday you will most certainly be right. It made an impression on me. And, since then for the last thirty-three years, I’ve looked in the mirror everyday and ask myself; “If today was the last day of my life, would I do, what I’m about to do, today”. And, whenever the answer has been “No” for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something. Remembering that I’ll be dead soon, is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big changes in my life. Because almost everything, all external expectations, all pride, all fear or embarrassment of failure, these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving all what is truly important remembering that you are going to die, is the best way I know to avoid the trap that you have something to lose. You are already naked, there is no reason on not to follow your heart.

About a year ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at seven thirty in the morning, and it clearly showed a tumour on my pancreas. I didn’t even know what a pancreas was. The doctors told me, this was almost certainly a type of cancer, that is incurable, and that I should expect to live not longer than three to six months. My doctor advised me to go home and get my affairs in order; which is doctors code for; ‘prepare to die’. It means to try and to tell your kids everything. You thought you had the next ten years to tell, but you just have a few months. It means to make sure everything else is buttoned up so it will be as easy as possible. It means to say your goodbyes. I lived with that diagnosis all day. Later that day, I had a biopsy, where they stuck an endoscope down my throat, in to my stomach, put a needle in to my intestines, to get a few cells for the tumour. I was sedated, but my wife was there, told me that when they view the cells under the microscope, the doctors started crying. Because it turned out to be a very rare form a pancreatic cancer that is curable with surgery. I’ve had the surgery and thankfully I’ve won. This has been the closest I’ve been of facing death. And, I hope it’s the closest I get for a few more decades. Having lived through it, I can now say this to you, with more certainty, that death was a useful but purely intellectual concept:

No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life’s change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.

Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.

When I was young, there was an amazing publication called The Whole Earth Catalog, which was one of the bibles of my generation. It was created by a fellow named Stewart Brand not far from here in Menlo Park, and he brought it to life with his poetic touch. This was in the late 1960′s, before personal computers and desktop publishing, so it was all made with typewriters, scissors and Polaroid cameras. It was sort of like Google in paperback form, 35 years before Google came along: it was idealistic, and overflowing with neat tools and great notions.

Stewart and his team put out several issues of The Whole Earth Catalog, and then when it had run its course, they put out a final issue. It was the mid-1970s, and I was your age. On the back cover of their final issue was a photograph of an early morning country road, the kind you might find yourself hitchhiking on if you were so adventurous. Beneath it were the words: “Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.” It was their farewell message as they signed off. Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish. And I have always wished that for myself. And now, as you graduate to begin anew, I wish that for you.

Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Thank you all very much.

The essence of Steve Jobs' address was that he learned from failure. The talk is about three failures - dropping out of college, getting fired and being diagnosed with cancer. And it was about how he was able to give his life meaning, purpose and richness as a consequence.

Everyone tries to copy and learn from success. It takes a very special person to learn from failure.

The Zimbabwean Farmer

2011-09-14T04:44:00.005+01:00

Zimbabwe's president Robert Mugabe has waged a long running war on the country's white farmers.

His land redistribution programme has been relentless, ruthless and at times murderous.

Ben Freeth and his father-in-law challenged the Zimbabwean Government all the way to Southern Africa's highest court.

They won a landmark victory, but it made little difference, they lost their farm, and much else besides.

HARDtalk's Stephen Sackur talks to one of the few white farmers to resist.

Here's a part of the interview, between Stephen and Ben, which I had taken the privilege of jotting down. Why? Well, it's something, that almost each and everyone one of us, aren't able to do. To Forgive.

Ben Freeth : We believed we could carry on. We believed that we had future. We went about it, and started building a house, and we received the Certificate of No Present Interests from the government, regarding the farm. So, we would be okay. And. . but, things turned out a bit different.

Stephen Sackur : I just wander, as a young man as you were, whether you looked around you at that particular time, knowing Mogabe was in power, knowing his overall philosophy of Africa, and African politics, Whether you thought to yourself, maybe in the long run, this isn’t sustainable, for white farmers like me to be sitting on land, you know thousands of hectors, earning plenty of money, having a good life, when so many people around me, black Zimbabweans are living in poverty.

Ben Freeth : Well, we very involved in trying to help in our community around us. We know we had, various competitions, we were running amongst the black farmers, neighboring farms, in a small scale commercial, and we were trying to teach them some of the skills we had.

We had black commercial farmers next door. And we were involved in trying to build a multi cultural society, where we would all be able to move forward together. And, as for our black farm workers, we would try to uplift them at the same time.

Stephen Sakur : And here’s the bittersweet thing, you won a historic judgment, but in cause of which, you also suffered as a family, the most brutal attack which left you very badly injured, and more particularly injured your father in law to a point he could never properly recover.

Ben Freeth : Indeed, two weeks before the main hearing, actually on the very day President Robert Mogabe was being sworn into power after that bloody election in 2008, and we were abducted.We were taken off. We were beaten extremely badly, we had many bones. Between us, mother in law was made to sign up the papers because my father in law and I were both unconscious at that time; to say that we would withdraw from the Trivine 11, that was two weeks before the main hearing.

And. . . that, somehow I managed to get to the hearing, and my father in law, unfortunately didn’t, he was still in the hospital, and as you said, he later died of those injuries incurred.

Stephen Sakur : I mean I’ve seen the pictures, and I can’t believe you’re sitting here before me now, even though, it was three years ago, your face was so badly battered, and I don’t see visible scars but the wounds were very real. And, you were lying at the back of a pick up truck, your feet and hands were bound. You’re mother in law and father in law were groaning next to you all bloodied and battered. And, you believed you were going to die.

Ben Freeth: I did.

Stephen Sakur : And at that point, did you think, “Ben, I’ve pushed this too far”.

Ben Freeth : No, I didn’t. While, I was lying on the ground, I remember saying to God, “Erm, if it’s my time I’m ready”, or “If you still have things for me to do down here then, I’ m also ready”.

And, very shortly after that, the verse which I’ve always found most difficult, that Jesus said that, which is, “ Love your enemies, and bless those who persecute you”, came into my heart. It was almost as if something physical had happened and I reached out. I was all bound, ( my arms) very tightly, I had a badly fractured skull, I had lots of broken ribs and things like that, and I reached to all the people surrounding me, and I touched their feet, and I had this supernatural love, for these people, who were doing this terrible thing to us. And I said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” “ May the Lord Jesus, bless you”.

Stephen Sakur : And,even though in the course of this conversation, we’ve established, that there is an evil, in the people who did this to you.

Ben Freeth : Yes, but there’s a very different thing between loving the evil, and loving the person, and Jesus says love your enemies. And, It’s an impossible thing to do, I believe in the natural; It has to be something in the supernatural.

And, I was blessed with the grace to be able to find love for these people who did these terrible thing to us.

Stephen Sakur : I used the word bitter sweet, because you won that legal victory, but it hasn’t done you any good, you sit before me today as a man, who has lost the family land, you’ve been driven out of your home, with your family. Erm, most white farmers have given up the ghost, and many have left the country all together. Do you feel, quite lost?

Ben Freeth : I don’t. Not at all. Yes, we have lost in terms of our material possessions; losing our home, losing our crops, losing everything on the farm, everything we’ve ever worked for in a material sense.

But, I do not feel that I’ve lost what’s inside me. I’ve got a hope for the future, which I think, it’s perhaps a supernatural hope, it’s got something that’s necessarily a reasonable amount of hope, that’s always in my heart.

Forgiveness is me giving up my right to hurt you for hurting me. –Anonymous

Generally, forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The act that hurt or offended you may always remain a part of your life, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on you and help you focus on other, positive parts of your life. Forgiveness can even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy and compassion for the one who hurt you.

Forgiveness doesn't mean that you deny the other person's responsibility for hurting you, and it doesn't minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the act. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life.

By embracing forgiveness, you embrace peace, hope, gratitude and joy.

It’s hard, no doubt about it. But, if take the example of Ben, the Zimbabwean Farmer, where he was able to forgive and to give unconditional love to those, who had tortured his family and himself, then why can’t we?.

The Theory Of Everything.

2011-09-10T19:57:00.003+01:00

We live in a wonderfully complex universe, and we are curious about it by nature. Time and again we have wondered--- why are we here? Where did we and the world come from? What is the world made of? It is our privilege to live in a time when enormous progress has been made towards finding some of the answers. String theory is our most recent attempt to answer the last (and part of the second) question.

So, what is the world made of? Ordinary matter is made of atoms, which are in turn made of just three basic components: electrons whirling around a nucleus composed of neutrons and protons. The electron is a truly fundamental particle (it is one of a family of particles known as leptons), but neutrons and protons are made of smaller particles, known as quarks. Quarks are, as far as we know, truly elementary.

There are four fundamental forces in the universe: gravity, electromagnetism, and the weak and strong nuclear forces. Each of these is produced by fundamental particles that act as carriers of the force. The most familiar of these is thephoton, a particle of light, which is the mediator of electromagnetic forces. (This means that, for instance, a magnet attracts a nail because both objects exchange photons.) The graviton is the particle associated with gravity.

In the last few decades, string theory has emerged as the most promising candidate for a microscopic theory of gravity. And it is infinitely more ambitious than that: it attempts to provide a complete, unified, and consistent description of the fundamental structure of our universe. (For this reason it is sometimes, quite arrogantly, called a 'Theory of Everything').

The essential idea behind string theory is this: all of the different 'fundamental ' particles of the Standard Model are really just different manifestations of one basic object: a string. How can that be? Well, we would ordinarily picture an electron, for instance, as a point with no internal structure. A point cannot do anything but move. But, if string theory is correct, then under an extremely powerful 'microscope' we would realize that the electron is not really a point, but a tiny loop of string. A string can do something aside from moving--- it can oscillate in different ways. If it oscillates a certain way, then from a distance, unable to tell it is really a string, we see an electron. But if it oscillates some other way, well, then we call it a photon, or a quark, or a ... you get the idea. So, if string theory is correct, the entire world is made of strings!

No? Still not getting the picture?.

Let my try to put it in an easier way to understand.

String theory is "the theory of everything." Quantum mechanics tells us about the very small. The theory of relativity explains the immense. String theory ties it all together. It proposes that atomic particles are made up of infinitesimal vibrating loops of energy or strings. Each string vibrates at its own frequency, like on a violin, producing notes and these notes make up everything in the universe.

( Try to picture a Cosmic Symphony).

These strings have been combining and recombining ever since the Big Bang. So, the connections between you, me or any of us are not that extraordinary.

But if you still can't seem to get hold of the idea, I suggest you should get the " String Theory For Dummies", as it has a much easier way of describing things. Heavens know, Ive learned a lot from it.

5 Must-have Herbs and Spices in Kitchens

2011-09-08T14:34:00.008+01:00

Civilizations traded in spices more than 4,000 years ago. Five hundred years ago in what was known as the Age of Exploration, explorers sailed the seas in the hopes of finding the fastest trade route from Europe to Asia. Europeans had become enchanted with the exotic seasonings from the Far East.

Take a look at the section of your local grocery store where you find the spices and herbs. While you might think you're just doing some shopping, you're really gazing at history. Herbs and spices are more than just aromatic, flavorful accents to dishes. They are symbols of economic trade, ancient cultures and political power.

Today, the shipping industry makes it much easier -- if less romantic -- for the average consumer to access spices and herbs. As a result, even the most novice home cook can experiment with ingredients that just a few centuries earlier were worth more than their weight in gold.

The variety of herbs and spices is enormous -- however, we'll focus on five seasonings, listed in no particular order, that are must haves in one's kitchen!
( I literally cant cook any dish at all without the presence of these herbs).

You may notice that I've left salt off of the list. That's because herbs and spices are aromatic vegetable products we use to flavor foods. Salt, while important to our diets and cooking techniques, is a mineral.

5.Oregano

The warm, balsamic and aromatic flavor of oregano makes it the perfect addition to Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. This popular herb whose name means "mountain joy" is available throughout the year.

It's used in a variety of dishes ranging from sauces to chili. Oregano's aroma is very distinctive -- it's an earthy, warm smell. It has a bitter taste, too. Because of its strong flavor and smell, it's best to pair oregano with other bold flavors, or it could dominate the dish.

The part of the oregano plant we use as an herb are the leaves, and you can find dried or fresh oregano in most major supermarkets.

4: Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is widely used as a spice when cooking, especially in Mediterranean dishes.Traditionally, rosemary has been used medicinally to improve memory, relieve muscle pain and spasm, stimulate hair growth, and support the circulatory and nervous systems.

It marries well with many types of meat, such as lamb, poultry, sweet potatoes, carrots and squash, zucchini and quick breads.

I love Rosemary leave for flavoring.

3. Basil

Basil refers to a family of herbs that grow natively in India and Iran. The tulsi variety of basil has sacred significance in the Hindu religion. During the British colonial occupation of India, government officials required Indians to swear upon tulsi while taking an oath in a court of law.

Many cooks like to use basil in tomato dishes; the two flavors complement one another. Over the years, basil has become an important ingr edient in Italian dishes that rely on tomato sauces. Other popular uses for basil include pairing it with meats, fish and salads. Lemon basil is useful in desserts and chicken dishes.

Fresh basil is used best for salads and pesto. Dried basil is best used for slow-cooked dishes such as crockery pot dishes, stews, soups, and even cass eroles.

2: Garlic

Garlic's strong odor and taste make it a powerful seasoning. It's so potent that some cultures regarded garlic as a distasteful ingredient until relatively recently. Today, it's a popular flavoring agent in many dishes. It's even bridged the gap between a seasoning and an actual dish -- roasted garlic is a popular appetizer on its own at many restaurants.

Garlic can take many forms in the kitchen. Cooks tend to use fresh garlic to season dishes, but you can also find garlic powder and even garlic salt. Fresh garlic tends to have the most robust flavor.

1: Black Pepper

Few spices have as much of a claim to fame as black pepper. The spice comes from the berries of a climbing vine native to India. Its spicy kick has turned many a bland dish into an exciting meal. In fact, it may be the most widely used spice in the world.

Some ancient cultures used pepper as currency. When Visigoths sacked the city of Rome in the fifth century, among the tributes they demanded from the Romans were three thousand pounds of pepper . In some cultures, pepper was worth more than its weight in gold.

Most cooks apply pepper directly to food after it has been cooked. Cooking pepper tends to sap its taste and aroma. Some cooks prefer to use white pepper for cream sauces. White pepper has a milder taste than black pepper and requires a different approach during production, although both kinds of pepper come from the same plant.

Of course you can get your hands on these herbs, and many more from McComicks wide selection of bottled herbs and spices. ( Which personally, something I love, and couldn't live without!).

Food For Thought

2011-09-05T12:46:00.005+01:00

"Mirror, Mirror on the wall...who's the thinnest one of all?"

Have you noticed the central role food plays in our daily lives?

Food provides us with more than the sum of its nutrients - protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Food is condensed and transformed energy. Eating is a way to extract life sustaining energy from food. When you eat, you process and absorb the forces of nature stored in your food. For example, plants store light through photosynthesis. Eating food releases the energy and nutrients stored in food for your body to absorb. In assimilating your food, the physical and energetic forces of your food interact with you on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels - and in turn determine your health and the quality of your life.

What you choose to eat determines the quality of the nutrients and energy that you bring into your body. We are affected quite differently by fresh, whole, live, organic foods compared to processed foods containing the chemicals of artificial colors and flavors, preservatives, pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. Think of the vital energy you get from organic foods which have either been freshly harvested or which can create a plant from the whole grain or legume when planted. In comparison, consider the energy you get in eating meat and processed foods which also give you pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, preservatives, and artificial flavors and color

Eating has never and never will be simply about satisfying physical hunger. We eat not only to quell a rumbling stomach, but also to satisfy the appetite and deal with emotions.

From the moment a parent first offers a biscuit or sweet to comfort and quiet a child, food becomes a way of nourishing the soul as well as the body. From the earliest age food is used to celebrate, calm, relieve boredom or depression and to comfort in times of sadness and emotional distress. Such behaviour is not unusual. Having a piece of birthday cake when it would be anti-social to refuse, rewarding yourself with some chocolate or a few biscuits after finishing a daunting job, having a glass of wine or beer to be sociable, are all normal practices.

Eating disorders are serious medical problems. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder are all types of eating disorders. Eating disorders frequently develop during adolescence or early adulthood, but can occur during childhood or later in adulthood. Females are more likely than males to develop an eating disorder.

Eating disorders are more than just a problem with food. Food is used to feel in control of other feelings that may seem overwhelming. For example, starving is a way for people with anorexia to feel more in control of their lives and to ease tension, anger, and anxiety. Purging and other behaviors to prevent weight gain are ways for people with bulimia to feel more in control of their lives and to ease stress and anxiety.

It pains me, not to mention sickens me to watch young women in their early teens to be pulled into this delusional world. Some of these young women, have grossly inaccurate perceptions of how they look and how others think they look. Though a person may be healthy, she may see herself as being overweight and unappealing, and may believe that others feel the same way about her. Women are the ones who most often struggle with distorted body images, and it's often because they feel pressured to measure up to the "ideal" image that's portrayed in the media.

Anorexia Nervosa

Many people with anorexia nervosa see themselves as overweight, even when they are clearly underweight. Eating, food, and weight control become obsessions. People with anorexia nervosa typically weigh themselves repeatedly, portion food carefully, and eat very small quantities of only certain foods. Some people with anorexia nervosa may also engage in binge-eating followed by extreme dieting, excessive exercise, self-induced vomiting, and/or misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas.

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by:

Extreme thinness (emaciation)
A relentless pursuit of thinness and unwillingness to maintain a normal or healthy weight
Intense fear of gaining weight
Distorted body image, a self-esteem that is heavily influenced by perceptions of body weight and shape, or a denial of the seriousness of low body weight
Lack of menstruation among girls and women
Extremely restricted eating.

Bulimia nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is often considered as the sister to aneroxia nervosa. However, unlike aneroxia nervosa, bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent and frequent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food and feeling a lack of control over these episodes. This binge-eating is followed by behavior that compensates for the overeating such as forced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, excessive exercise, or a combination of these behaviors.

People with bulimia nervosa usually maintain what is considered a healthy or normal weight, while some are slightly overweight. But like people with anorexia nervosa, they often fear gaining weight, want desperately to lose weight, and are intensely unhappy with their body size and shape. Usually, bulimic behavior is done secretly because it is often accompanied by feelings of disgust or shame. The binge-eating and purging cycle happens anywhere from several times a week to many times a day.

Binge-eating disorder

With binge-eating disorder a person loses control over his or her eating. Unlike bulimia nervosa, periods of binge-eating are not followed by purging, excessive exercise, or fasting. As a result, people with binge-eating disorder often are over-weight or obese. People with binge-eating disorder who are obese are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. They also experience guilt, shame, and distress about their binge-eating, which can lead to more binge-eating.

Now, if you are not sure whether you are suffering from emotionally over eating, use the following symptoms as a guide and then go get medical confirmation and treatment for this eating disorder.

(a) When you have a meal outside, you thoroughly enjoyed what you have consumed and eventually eat more than what you should be eating. If this eating pattern become sort of habitual, the red flag is posted up.

(b) You also have emotional eating disorder problem if you opened up the fridge and wallop all the ice cream and popcorn in it just because the stress level in the office was at boiling point or your intimate relationship just hit a bump. Scientists have identified stress inducers as a key trigger for eating emotionally. By eating food aplenty, it somehow makes the eater feels better.

(c) Let's imagine this situation. You just finished a full and hearty meal less than an hour ago and a colleague called you up to join her in your favorite joint for a round of burgers. You jumped at the thought and ended up eating a burger, one fried chicken and French fries. If this type of compulsive behaviour persist, its time to see a doctor because you are likely to be suffering from emotional eating disorders problem.

Yes, in all the above three symptoms, you may argue that having "extra" food does not mean you are emotionally dependent on food and that you were merely trying to bond with people or with your circle of friends. But you have to look at things in the right perspective. This eating behavior has dragged on for far too long to be considered healthy or normal.It's important to remember that eating disorders can easily get out of hand and are difficult habits to break. Eating disorders are serious clinical problems that require professional treatment by doctors, therapists, and nutritionists.

Don't worry unnecessarily if you feel that you have emotional eating disorder. Just be courageous enough and have the self confidence to own up and reach out. There are many people out there who can help you. For starters, see your family doctor or talk it out with your family members.

Suicide; The Right Way.

2011-09-01T04:37:00.027+01:00

By clicking on the link that brought you here, you have made a legally binding agreement that for any reason, you want your life ended or the knowledge on how to end it. This is not a guide against suicide, but to suicide. Some of the methods listed here may be more effective than others and some may be totally ineffective. Since you've waived your rights to any and all legal recourse, any choices you make about suicide pertaining to the methods listed in this article and any expected results are done entirely at your own risk.

To spare you unnecessary pain, make it a little less gory, and minimize the paramedics laughter when they find you dead from overdosing on Flintstone vitamins (it's happened before).

Sucidal Notes.

Now before deciding on the most suitable method on how to die, I'd suggest you plan your suicide note.Why? This is of extreme importance because the note you leave behind to your roommates will be the standard to how they will remember you, and will be the lasting impression you leave on this world. Below are guidelines on how to write a suicide note that would make any English major proud.

You don't want your suicide note to start off with a cliche line. "by the time you read this, I will be dead" is trite and entirely too dramatic. Suicide is the most dramatic of all actions, but your suicide note should not be overly dramatic. You don't want to be written off as a drama queen. I suggest opening with a lighter greeting. Have some fun with it! Keep in mind that the reader has just discovered a dead body, so there is no need to punctuate the solemness of the situation any further. Here are a list of possible opening lines...

"Hey! Ya found me!"

-"Weird, I know. Here's the thing..."

-"You're crying, aren't you? I knew it!"

-"WAAZZUUUUP!!!"

Now that you have caught your reader's attention with a clever opening line, you are going to want to let them know that you are getting down to business. If you have a good idea about who will find the note first, feel free to personalize (Ex-"Hey mom, I hope I didn't leave a mess."). However, I recommend maintaining a tone that isn't directed toward anyone in particular. Ideally, you want a complete stranger to be able to appreciate your suicide note.

Guideline #1: Be extremely brief

No one wants to read a drawn out letter that just goes on and on. And most likely, you are probably not that interesting. So, in the letter simply get right to the point, you’ll always leave them wanting more.

"Hey George, I'm hanging out in the garage, Literally!". "LOL!".

Guideline #2: Spelling and Grammar Errors

Because you are going to die, why make a fool of your self by making silly mistakes in your note. This would only let those who read to have a great opportunity to burst out laughing and to penalize your errors. Be sure, to have done some cross referencing between your suicidal notes, and dictionaries. Remember: Proper grammar and spelling is a must. No one is going to feel guilty if it seems like you were not of sound mind while writing your suicide note.

Guideline # 3: Be mysterious

Chances are, the person reading your note is going to want to know where your body is. Do something cool, like draw up a treasure map to where your body is with “X” marking the spot. Or do something as simple as this:

"Hey, Mike! Guess what I just killed myself, and my dead body is under your bed". "Don't believe me, well go find out then!".

Guideline #4: Have your note serve a purpose

After a suicide, people inevitably start blaming others and themselves for the misfortune. However, you can free all of your close friends and family of the guilt that it might’ve been their fault. And at the same time, help better society. What am I talking about? I’m saying you need to blame your tragedy on specific people, places and things in society in your suicide note. This way, the blame will be placed directly on whoever was mentioned in the letter, and people will take strict action and put a stop to it. For example, write in your letter that you killed yourself because you simply could not live in a world where the show “I Carly” is able to remain on the air.

Guideline #5: Leave the number for Dominos Pizza the bottom of the note with tip money

Let’s say hypothetically that it was your turn to cook dinner that night, but now, you’ve left your roommate’s in the kitchen hanging, while you’re out hanging from the tree in the back yard. At least now they have a plan for dinner and call the pizza man. You will be remembered and thanked for this. When your friend says a few words on your behalf, he will say “I will never forget the day my friend took his life. It was a Tuesday and we were able to order the 555 deal from Domino’s. We all got different toppings and you wouldn’t believe how much it hit the spot. Wait, what was I talking about before?”.

Guideline #6: Be concise.

Don't spend too much time on one point. Let people know your death is on their hands, but keep them guessing. Brevity carries more weight.

Throw in some vague accusations like, "Laura, you know the countless ways in which you tortured me."

Guideline #7: Specify how you want your funeral

Your funeral is like your last big party on earth. You should be able to have it your way, just like Burger King! I personally want a Gothic themed funeral, with the song “Helena” or " Welcome To The Black Parade", by My Chemical Romance” to be blasted as my casket is rolled out into the incinerator . I can’t wait! You all better be there.

Guideline#8 : Conclusion.

When it comes to closing, I suggest something think of the times when you have left a gathering without really saying goodbye, and how everyone was put off by that. Here are some possible closing lines...

-"I think I made my point"

-"If I cared, this would be longer"

-"whatevs"

-"TTYL"

No matter how strong the urge, do not add a P.S. quip. It just looks desperate, and you don't want to seem desperate in a suicide note.

As we have now established the basics, lets begin with the real stuff.

Methods Available.

1. The Gun

Some people have seen too many movies though. If you think that any old gun is a half-second click away from "lights out," then you may be in for an unpleasant experience. First, DO NOT USE a .22 caliber weapon, or any weak ass gun for that matter. You'll thank me (or maybe you won't, because you're dead).

A small handgun can do four things:

Kill you.
Make you bleed out for 2+ agonizing hours before killing you.
Put you in a coma forever.
Not kill you.

Get a .45 caliber weapon, or even better, A SHOTGUN!
If you put the weapon in your mouth pointing to the back of your neck/lower head, then death may not be instant and you may have to endure unnecessary suffering.

2. Drowning

It is known as one of the most painful ways to die (don't ask me how people know) and can take up to three minutes to lose consciousness. If you choose to do it, go to a lake/ocean and swim 10-15 feet deep and take a deep breath (your bathtub or kitchen sink will be too challenging to kill yourself in). You'll then come to the quick realization that you are in fact silly and should have chosen a less painful way to go.

3. Hanging

This is a tough one. Will you choose to tie yourself up and kick the chair beneath you, causing moments of breathless agony and unnecessary pain? OR... tie yourself up and jump off a twelve foot ledge, instantly snapping your neck and possibly decapitating you? I advise option two (again, it just depends how much you hate yourself). To limit the mess, jump off a 5-6 foot ledge. Don't lose your head, now.

4. Slitting Your Wrist

It's a messy way, and well sort of slow creeping, excruciating, agonizingly painful way to die. However, if you do choose this method, be sure to bear this in mind. Remember; "it's down the street,and not across the tracks". You might now think, why is it important? Well, by slitting your wrist across, enhances your likely chances of living, as it is easier to stitch up.
I would of course attach a visual image, to make it more comprehensible, but I myself find it very disturbing. So, good luck finding it yourself!

5. Pills

This is risky. Not like anything matters at this point though, right? Pill suicide works just as much as it doesn't. The upside is that it's not a gory death. It WILL be painful, but mostly just puking and possibly shitting all over yourself. And your chances of survival are much greater than a shotgun suicide (to say the least).

6. Jumping

If you're not immediately scared to jump, you're not high enough yet.

Listen: A 2-STORY HOUSE IS NOT HIGH ENOUGH!! Nor is a 3-story house! Jump off something a skyscraper or the Colosseum in Rome, which would lessen the very chances of you living.

Remember: HEAD FIRST, and don't expect an open casket.

Now, there's nothing worst than you failing at failing.

It's HUMILIATING. Good Luck!

-Haha-Just for Laughs/Gags-Seriously, dudes & dudettes, attempting to die really sucks, don't do it.-Seek medical attention, if your that depressed- Remember as they say; "that people who commit suicide become civil servants in the afterlife".

Myths About Suicide

2011-09-01T03:48:00.001+01:00

MYTH: You have to be mentally ill to even think about suicide.
FACT: Most people have thought of suicide from time to time and not all people who die by suicide have mental health problems at the time of death. However, the majority of people who kill themselves do have such problems, typically to a serious degree. Sometimes this has been recognised before the person’s death and sometimes not.

MYTH: People who talk about suicide aren’t really serious and not likely to actually kill themselves.
FACT: People who kill themselves have often told someone that they do not feel life is worth living or that they have no future. Some may have actually said they want to die. Whilst it may be the case that some people talk about suicide as a way of getting the attention they need, it is very important that everyone who says they feel suicidal be treated seriously.

MYTH: Once a person has made a serious suicide attempt, that person is unlikely to make another.
FACT: People who have attempted to kill themselves are significantly more likely to eventually die by suicide than the rest of the population.

MYTH: If a person is serious about killing themselves then there is nothing you can do.
FACT: Feeling suicidal is often a temporary state of mind. Whilst someone may feel low or distressed for a sustained period the actual suicidal crisis can be relatively short term. This is what makes timely emotional support so important.

MYTH: Talking about suicide is a bad idea as it may give someone the idea to try it.
FACT: When someone feels suicidal they often do not want to worry or frighten others and so do not talk about the way they feel. By asking directly about suicide you give them permission to tell you how they feel. People who have been through such a crisis will often say that it was a huge relief to be able to talk about their suicidal thoughts. Once someone starts talking they have a greater chance of discovering other options to suicide.

MYTH: Most suicides happen in the winter months.
FACT: Suicide is more common in the spring and summer months.

MYTH: People who threaten suicide are just attention seeking and shouldn’t be taken seriously.
FACT: People may well talk about their feelings because they want support in dealing with them. In this sense it may be that they do indeed want attention in which case giving that attention may save their life.

MYTH: People who are suicidal want to die.
FACT: The majority of people who feel suicidal do not actually want to die; they do not want to live the life they have. The distinction may seem small but is in fact very important and is why talking through other options at the right time is so vital.

The Pink Ribbon.

2011-08-24T13:29:00.008+01:00

The Pink Ribbon is commonly associated with breast cancer awareness, this ribbon is also a symbol for birth parents and childhood cancer awareness.

Cancer is a class of diseases characterized by out-of-control cell growth. There are over 100 different types of cancer, and each is classified by the type of cell that is initially affected.

Cancer harms the body when damaged cells divide uncontrollably to form lumps or masses of tissue called tumors (except in the case of leukemia where cancer prohibits normal blood function by abnormal cell division in the blood stream). Tumors can grow and interfere with the digestive, nervous, and circulatory systems, and they can release hormones that alter body function. Tumors that stay in one spot and demonstrate limited growth are generally considered to be benign.

When a tumor successfully spreads to other parts of the body and grows, invading and destroying other healthy tissues, it is said to have metastasized. This process itself is called metastasis, and the result is a serious condition that is very difficult to treat.

In 2007, cancer claimed the lives of about 7.6 million people in the world. Physicians and researchers who specialize in the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer are called oncologist Cancer is ultimately the result of cells that uncontrollably grow and do not die. Normal cells in the body follow an orderly path of growth, division, and death. Programmed cell death is called apoptosis, and when this process breaks down, cancer begins to form. Unlike regular cells, cancer cells do not experience programmatic death and instead continue to grow and divide. This leads to a mass of abnormal cells that grows out of control.

FOR some women, cancer comes hand-in-hand with another syndrome: denial. They may not want to face the reality that they have cancer, or may not want to go through treatment because they think they are doomed to death anyway.

In some cases, denial starts early on at the symptom stage, because they may not even want to consider that it could be cancer at all.

When women neglect to pay attention to cancer symptoms out of denial, fear or ignorance, they could be missing out on a valuable opportunity to detect cancer and treat it early.

Since there are so many different types of cancers that could affect us, the symptoms vary widely between different conditions and different people as well. There are also many instances where cancers do not produce symptoms at all, or symptoms only appear at late stages.

However, we can easily identify about 10 symptoms that should immediately send up warning flags in our minds and prompt us to seek medical advice. These symptoms can be easily mistaken for other conditions or as benign symptoms, but you shouldn’t be so quick to shrug them off without proper medical advice.

#1: Unexplained weight loss

Say you haven’t been exercising more than usual lately, or have not even been exercising at all. Or you haven’t gone on a diet and have been eating the amounts that you usually do. Yet you’ve been steadily losing a significant amount of weight, for instance 4kg or 5kg within a month.

This kind of unexplained weight loss is not necessarily a reason to be happy. It could be a sign of cancer, especially cancer of the colon or other parts of the digestive system.

You should see your doctor and provide as much details as possible about when you began losing weight and how much you have lost. Your doctor will conduct some tests to rule out an overactive thyroid and ask you to undergo CT scans to look at your internal organs.

#2: Bloating

Bloating is something that most women have become used to. We experience bloating at some point or other in our lives, whether due to PMS, water retention, or indigestion.

If you start to experience bloating that is unusual and not related to your menstrual cycle, you should start to pay close attention to what’s happening. Are you so bloated that your jeans, trousers or skirts can’t fit? Did it appear suddenly and is now occurring regularly over a few weeks?

Is the bloating accompanied by pain or tenderness in the abdomen or pelvis? Do you constantly feel full and unable to eat, even though you haven’t eaten much?

All these signs have been known to occur in women with ovarian cancer. If you experience any of the above, it would be wise to see a doctor to check your ovaries because this type of cancer is difficult to detect in the early stages.

If you are able to catch it early, your chances of a better outcome are higher.

#3: Unusual bleeding

Any instance of vaginal bleeding that is out of the ordinary should be cause for concern. As a woman, you should know your body and your monthly cycle well enough to be familiar with when you should bleed, how much bleeding you experience, and how you feel.

Basically, you should not ignore any bleeding that is abnormal from what you normally have. If you have very regular cycles, but suddenly experience bleeding or spotting between periods, then it is abnormal.

If you usually have light flows, but suddenly have heavy and painful periods, then you should also have it checked out.

Other symptoms that may accompany unusual bleeding are unpleasant odours or discharge, bleeding after intercourse or blood in the urine. All these types of unusual bleeding should be checked out because they could be signs of cervical or uterine cancers.

Bleeding may also originate from the gastrointestinal tract or parts of the urinary system, such as the bladder or kidney.

If you discover blood in your urine or your stool, it could be due to a number of things, such as haemorrhoids, or blood from the vagina. But it could also be a sign of bladder, kidney or colorectal cancer, so you should see a doctor to rule these out.

Bladder, kidney or colon cancer can also trigger symptoms like changes in bowel and bladder habits. You should be concerned if you develop unusual bowel and bladder movements, such as continual constipation, diarrhoea or stomach aches. More frequent urination, or pain during urination or during a bowel movement, are also worrying signs.

Finally, if you cough up blood more than once, you should also get medical advice.

#4: Breast changes

The breasts hold a lot of clues for women. We’ve been told countless times that we need to know our breasts intimately and examine them once a month for lumps and other changes within the breasts, on the surface of the skin, as well as on and around the nipples.

Redness and thickening of the skin on the breasts should be looked at immediately as this could indicate inflammatory breast cancer, which is a very rare but aggressive form of breast cancer. A rash, flaking of the skin, or itchiness that persists over weeks should also be examined.

Changes to the skin surface may also include swelling, dimples, puckerings or rough spots.

Observe your nipples as well and look for changes in appearance that are not normal. If your nipples suddenly start producing discharge (if you aren’t breastfeeding), become flattened, or turn in or out (contrary to what it usually is), it is best to see your doctor or gynaecologist.

#5: Skin changes

Changes in your skin texture, warts, moles or pigmentation, are well-known signs of skin cancer.

Melanoma is a common type of skin cancer and has symptoms like spots on your skin that have unusual changes in colour, size, shape or border. If certain spots on your skin appear to be funny-looking or different from your usual skin pigmentation, get it checked out.

Look out for moles or warts that change, such as growing excessively, sprouting hair, or changing colour or shape. Be wary if you suddenly develop bleeding on your skin or excessive scaling too. Observe the changes for one or two weeks, and if they persist, see your family doctor or a skin specialist.

#6: Difficulty swallowing and constant indigestion

Have you found it difficult to swallow your food lately? If you feel as if food is always caught in your throat when you eat, take note of this, as it could be a symptom of oesophageal or throat cancer.

Repetitive indigestion, not linked to pregnancy or any other apparent reason, is also a red flag. If you constantly feel nauseous, discomfort or a burning feeling in your upper abdomen, or vomit blood, you could be showing early signs of oesophageal, stomach or throat cancer.

#7: Persistent pain, fever or cough

These are three of the most vague and common symptoms that accompany many illnesses. It is extremely difficult to pinpoint them to cancer or any particular condition, but they are also not to be ignored or neglected.

Unexplained pain, in any part of the body, may point to some cancers. If it persists over a period of time, and cannot be attributed to any obvious physical wounds or conditions, then you should see your doctor and describe it in as much detail as possible.

Take note of when the pain arises, what kind of pain it is, and what exacerbates it.

A fever is often a sign of an infection, like influenza or some other viral or bacterial infection, but it can also point to certain types of cancer. The American Cancer Society says that fever is one of the symptoms that occur with early blood cancers such as leukaemia or lymphoma.

Of course, you do not have to run to your doctor in fear every time you have a fever. The point is that unexplained and prolonged fever needs to be examined, not ignored.

A very prolonged cough (one that lasts more than three or four weeks) that is unrelated to a cold or influenza, should also be noted. If lung cancer is suspected, especially if you are a smoker, your doctor should examine your throat, check your lung functioning and ask for X-rays.

#8: Swollen lymph nodes

Your lymph nodes are found in the sides of your neck, under your armpits, and around the groin area. Usually, they may become mildly swollen if you have an infection, and will subside once the infection has been treated or healed.

However, if the lymph nodes get progressively larger for more than a month, or develop lumps that do not go away, and are not related to a treatable infection, then the concern may be that it is linked to cancer, such as blood and lymphatic cancers.

#9: Mouth changes and sores

If you smoke or used to, you should look out for signs of oral cancer. Symptoms include white patches in the mucosa of the mouth, white spots on the tongue, or sores on the lips or in the mouth.

Other sores on the skin and genital area that won’t heal, or cause excessive bruising or bleeding, should also be examined by a doctor.

#10: Fatigue and weakness

Finally, we come to the last potential symptom of cancer that is most commonly ignored – fatigue. Obviously, fatigue is such an everyday symptom of so many conditions that we cannot jump to the conclusion that it must be caused by cancer.

However, fatigue caused by cancer will probably be unlike the usual tiredness that you experience after a long day at work. It may plague you even when you have had sufficient rest or have not exerted yourself. It will be prolonged, unabated by rest, and may be accompanied by unexplained weakness.

You will realize that the 10 signs and symptoms described above are very subtle and vague indications of a problem. It is not easy to distinguish symptoms of cancer, and you should not work yourself up into a panic just because you suddenly have a mole on your arm or you are feeling a little tired.

Just keep in mind that if these symptoms persist, or appear without due cause, then it is a good idea to discuss your concerns with your doctor. It could be nothing, but it could also save your life.

In The Persuit To Happiness

2011-08-08T16:04:00.003+01:00

Happiness is thought of as the good life , freedom from suffering, flourishing, well being, joy , prosperity and pleasure. I guess that would be one's general answer, if they were asked to define the meaning of happiness. If you look it up on everyone's favorite online search engine, Wikipedia, the definition of happiness would be as follows; "Happiness is a mental state of well-being characterized by positive emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy".^[1]

Now what has got to do with happiness? The connection is like that between life and living. For, peace makes life worth living, and paves the way to happiness. Peace and happiness are linked so inextricably that there's no happiness without peace.

What comes first: peace or happiness? Could you be at peace if you're not happy? The answer to these questions depends on your idea of happiness...on whether you get happiness from external factors or from within.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna tells Arjuna that no man can know happiness without peace. However, to experience peace, we need to prepare ourselves to receive it; so in a way we are responsible for making peace and happiness happen. For peace and happiness to last, both ought to spring from within, regardless of any turmoil or otherwise that is happening outside. The more you internalise your feelings of peace and happiness, the more the chances are of your reaching blissful heights. Once you are able to source peace and happiness from within, you can transcend external vicissitudes to remain ever-happy and blissful.

Reverend Ernest A Fitzgerald described happiness as a 'deep sense of inner peace' that comes when you believe that you are 'making a difference for good in the world'. Thomas Jefferson , former US president, said that "it is neither wealth nor splendour, but tranquillity and occupation, that give happiness."

From a Buddhist perspective, too, one can learn that "people inflict pain on others in the selfish pursuit of their happiness or satisfaction. Yet, true happiness comes from a sense of peace and contentment, which in turn must be achieved through the cultivation of altruism, of love and compassion, and elimination of ignorance, selfishness, and greed", in the words of the Dalai Lama. The Buddha said that to "enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to one's family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control one's own mind".

Peace is a recurring prayer in Holy Mass celebrated by Christians. The priest chants, 'Peace be with you' and the congregation replies, 'With you also'. The congregation offers each other 'The Sign of Peace'. The mass ends with a blessing by the priest, 'Go in peace, the mass is ended'.

What, then, happens to the non-believer? Is he doomed to turmoil and unhappiness? It would be presumptuous and uncharitable to draw such a conclusion. For, there's peace in the smile of a child; there's peace in the tender touch of one's mother...it's got nothing to do with God or religion, but everything to do with the state of your mind.

Thich Nhat Hanh, the Vietnamese Buddhist monk says that "If in our daily life we can smile, if we can be peaceful and happy, not only we, but everyone will profit from it. This is the most basic kind of peace work." Again, no religious strings attached to peace.

The Vedic idea of peace includes peace in all areas of life - psychological, social and environmental, for instance. The Yajur Veda declares: "Let there be peace in heaven, Let there be peace in the atmosphere, Let there be Peace on Earth... May the waters and medical herbs bring peace, May the trees give peace to all b eings, May all the gods be peaceful, May the Vedas spread peace everywhere, May all other objects everywhere give us peace, And may that peace come to us and remain with us for ever."

Could there be a more sublime yet secular declaration of peace and happiness?

Happiness is so important to us, both as individuals and as a world, primarily because happiness is really all there is.

Finding happiness is like finding yourself. You don't find happiness, you make happiness. You choose happiness. Self-actualization is a process of discovering who you are, who you want to be and paving the way to happiness by doing what brings YOU the most meaning and contentment to your life over the long run.

Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

2011-07-13T20:43:00.010+01:00

The Seven Wonders of the World (or the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) is a widely-known list of seven remarkable constructions of classical antiquity. The earliest known version of the list was compiled in the 2nd century BC by Antipater of Sidon; it appears to be based on the guide-books popular among Hellenic sight-seers and only includes works located around the Mediterranean rim.

The pyramids of Egypt are the oldest of the seven wonders, somewhat 4500 years old! Even though the Greeks and Romans though the Greeks and Romans thought these pyramids were foolish spending by the Egyptian Kings, they nevertheless marveled at their size and construction. The Pyramid of Cheops, also called the Pyramid of Khufu or The Great Pyramid of Giza reached a height of 481 feet and contained more than 2,000,000 stone blocks.

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon ,in the country of Iraq, were 75 foot tall terraced gardens that seemed to be floating in the air. They were built about, 600BC by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife, a mountain princess, so that in his desert country of Babylonia she wouldn’t be lonesome for her woodland home. Water to irrigate the flowers and trees and to supply the fountains and waterfalls were raised by slaves through lifts to a tank at the top of the gardens.

The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, in what it is now, Turkey, was built about 550BC and was one of the largest temples of ancient times. It was dedicated to the Greek god Artemis, who in Greek Mythology protected all living things. The temple was made entirely out of marble, with 106 columns, 40 feet high, enclosing an area larger than a modern football field.

The Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Greece shows the King of the Gods, on his throne. This 40 –foot-high statue was covered all over with ivory, gold, and precious gems, and was probably the most famous statue in the ancient world. It was sculpted by Phideas about 435 BC.

The lighthouse of Alexandria stood on a stone platform 440 feet high above an island in the harbor of Alexandria,Egypt. Built in 270 BC, it stood for 1000 years with a fire burning at the top, guiding ships safely back into the harbor, until it was destroyed by an earthquake.

The Mausoleum, or decorated tomb of King Mausolus in Halicarnassus, Turkey, stood 135 feet high and was designed and sculpted in 353 BC by the six most famous Greek sculptors and architects. A statue of the King in his chariot is believed to have stood atop of the huge marble pyramid on the building.

The Colossus of Rhodes, a huge bronze statue of the son of the Gods, Helios, stood in the harbor of the island of Rhodes, near Turkey. This 120 foot tall statue as tall as the statue of Liberty, took twelve years to complete. In 224 BC, soon after it was completed, it was destroyed by an earthquake.

Mother Nature's Plea For Help

2011-07-13T16:29:00.005+01:00

Over three quarters of our planet are covered by the oceans. Their biodiversity is unmatched and they contain over 80 percent of all life on earth, mostly unexplored. Millions of people worldwide are depending on the oceans for their daily livelihoods. More and more all this is endangered because of ignorance and a global lack of management. Ocean overfishing is simply the taking of wildlife from the sea at rates too high for fished species to replace themselves. Valuable fish stocks, as well as a whole host of other marine life, are severely threatened by overfishing .

The global fishing fleet is currently larger than what the oceans can sustain or support. - Meaning that humans are taking far more fish out of the ocean than can be replaced by those remaining. As a result:

52% of the world’s fisheries are fully exploited, and 24% are overexploited, depleted, or recovering from depletion²
Seven of the top ten marine fisheries, accounting for about 30% of all capture fisheries production, are fully exploited or overexploited
As many as 90% of all the ocean’s large fish have been fished out.
Several important commercial fish populations have declined to the point where their survival is threatened.
The impacts of declining fish catches are being painfully felt by many coastal fishing communities around the world.

The world's oceans are a shadow of what they once were. With a few notable exceptions, such as well-managed fisheries in Alaska, Iceland, and New Zealand, the number of fish swimming the seas is a fraction of what it was a century ago. Marine biologists differ on the extent of the decline. Some argue that stocks of many large oceangoing fish have fallen by 80 to 90 percent, while others say the declines have been less steep. But all agree that, in most places, too many boats are chasing too few fish.

"Cruel" may seem a harsh indictment of the age-old profession of fishing—and certainly does not apply to all who practice the trade—but how else to portray the world's shark fishermen, who kill tens of millions of sharks a year, large numbers finned alive for shark-fin soup and allowed to sink to the bottom to die? How else to characterize the incalculable number of fish and other sea creatures scooped up in nets, allowed to suffocate, and dumped overboard as useless bycatch? Or the longline fisheries, whose miles and miles of baited hooks attract—and drown—creatures such as the loggerhead turtle and wandering albatross?

Do we countenance such loss because fish live in a world we cannot see? Would it be different if, as one conservationist fantasized, the fish wailed as we lifted them out of the water in nets? If the giant bluefin lived on land, its size, speed, and epic migrations would ensure its legendary status, with tourists flocking to photograph it in national parks. But because it lives in the sea, its majesty—comparable to that of a lion—lies largely beyond comprehension.

However, the threat to the marine life doesn't end there.

For tens of millions of years, Earth's oceans have maintained a relatively stable acidity level. It's within this steady environment that the rich and varied web of life in today's seas has arisen and flourished. Since the beginning of the industrial revolution in the early 1800s, fossil fuel-powered machines have driven an unprecedented burst of human industry and advancement. The unfortunate consequence, however, has been the emission of billions of tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into Earth's atmosphere.

About half of this anthropogenic, or man-made, CO2 has been absorbed over time by the oceans. This has benefited us by slowing the climate change these emissions would have instigated if they had remained in the air. But relatively new research is finding that the introduction of massive amounts of CO2 into the seas is altering water chemistry and affecting the life cycles of many marine organisms, particularly those at the lower end of the food chain.

Remember that one person can make a difference. Small accomplishments add up quicker then you might think. Remember, no matter what your economic standing, you can help save the environment and money at the same time.

Yes, one person can change the world.

2011-06-26T18:20:00.016+01:00

Sometimes a person may have everything that is needed to change the world, but the people around to stop them dead in their tracks. (Eg. Galileo and the Copernican theory was correct, but he was stopped by the church).

Throughout history, numerous attempts have been made by rulers, scientists, mathematicians, and inventors to change their world, and make a lasting mark in history for the benefit of mankind. And this can be seen clearly by the very few who did succeed in changing the world the some way or another.

Take for example, Abraham Lincoln; ( who brought an end to slavery), Martin Luther King Jr ( an iconic figure in the advancement of civil rights), not to forget, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi ; ( his philosophy and leadership helped India gain independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world).

The point is, I honestly believe a single person can help or has the power to change the world. It may childish and naive to say so, but look at the facts.And as I have said repeatedly, the possibilities for the human race are endless as there no limitations or boundaries which we are bound to. I strongly believe that with the right amount of determination and passion, what you strive for would eventually be yours.

Still think it's too good to be true?

Keep reading.

More than 17,000 women and girls from Nepal become sex slaves every year. Many end up in India, China or other Southeast Asian countries, and roughly half of them are children

A determined and yet compassionate woman has taken it upon herself to right this wrong. This woman whose group has rescued more than 12,000 women and girls from sex slavery has been named the 2010 CNN Hero of the Year. She is none other than, Ms. Anuradha Koirala.

Nepal is a major hub for traffickers luring girls into brothels in India with promises of well-paid - or at least better paid - jobs.Fighting the traffickers is a small, dedicated band whose limited resources are stretched.

Ms. Anuradha Koirala is a widely recognized activist and lecturer who has dedicated her life to combating the sexual exploitation of women and children. The criminal elements that "deliver" young girls are a ruthless enemy and have political connections at the highest levels in India and Nepal. This incredible person has provided more than a shelter for these girls and young women, she has created a home. It is a place for them to heal, go to school, learn a skill, and for some who are infected with HIV/AIDS, it is the place where they can spend their days surrounded by love.

Her commitment has been an inspiration to her largely volunteer staff. Most of the workers are rescued girls and young women who are healthy enough to work. One thing that really got to me, is, one of the things she said. If I can recall correctly, she says "Society rejects me and my girls, but they are the most important thing in my life."

The problem of modern day slavery isn't isolated to one part of the world: the levels of slavery and people trafficking today are greater than at any point in history across all countries. But people with great courage are tackling this modern-day slavery and making a difference.

What about Jamie Oliver? How can we take that into perspective?

If you have been following, "Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution", then you would realize how he strived to improve unhealthy diets and poor cooking habits in the United Kingdom and the United States. Perhaps, it may not seem just as much, however do note of this; In some way or another, this aspect is able to help or even to certain extent to educate people like us , on the importance of cooking your own food than having to rely on take outs.

Besides them ,there are others ; till this very moment, trying their very best to make our world a better place to live in. And, these amazing people, do it out of mere devotion to whatever is it they do. There is no carrot nor prize awaiting them at finishing line.

Aki Ra, a Cambodian native, was a child soldier during the communist Khmer Rouge regime. He now helping to make his native Cambodia safer by clearing land mines -- many of which he planted years ago. He and his Cambodian Self Help Demining organization have cleared about 50,000 mines and unexploded weapons. Their goal is to clear land mines in rural villages for the people who need the land for building houses or farming or building schools.

Or;

Take Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, who got an idea that changed his life -- and the lives of thousands of others. After much thought and prayer, Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow quit his job, sold his home and dedicated himself to helping people in need. In response, he launched Mary's Meals, which strives to break the cycle of poverty by feeding children a daily meal at school.Today, his program, Mary's Meals -- run from a tin shed in the Scottish highlands -- provides free daily meals to more than 400,000 children around the world.

And;

Guadalupe Arizpe De La Vega a 74-year-old grandmother drives into the murder capital of the world to help keep a sanctuary for its citizens alive. She has founded a hospital in Juarez, Mexico, that cares and attends to about 900 people daily ;regardless of their ability to pay. Despite the escalating violence in the city, this amazing woman travels there several times a week to make sure residents get the care and the appropriate attention that they need.

Also;

Narayanan Krishnan, an award-winning chef with a five-star hotel group, short-listed for an elite job in Switzerland. This very day, he aims and brings hot meals and dignity to India's homeless and destitute 365 days per year; through his nonprofit Akshaya Trust. Since 2002, he has served more than 1.2 million meals.

Not to forget;

Nelson Mendela, an ordinary man who had become a leader because of extraordinary circumstances.His charisma, self-deprecating sense of humour and lack of bitterness over his harsh treatment, as well as his amazing life story, partly explain his extraordinary global appeal. The revolution led by Mandela to transform a model of racial division and oppression into an open democracy, he demonstrated that he didn't flinch from taking up arms, but his real qualities came to the fore after his time as an activist--during his 27 years in prison and in the eight years since his release, when he had to negotiate the challenge of turning a myth into a man.

Like them, there are countless of unsung heroes around the world. All with one aim, to help and serve those who are in need. To make our world, a better place for all living things.

And, we can do our part too.

It has to start with an idea (the first step). Changing the world is as simple as convincing another person that something must be done to solve an obvious problem. No doubt, there would be constant triumphs and boulders in the path to righteousness. But with the strong determination, and devotion of one; A single individual amongst us; the thing that seemed most impossible at a time, is now made possible.

The Roman Room

2011-06-09T17:49:00.012+01:00

Like I've said before, the human mind is a remarkable thing. But, can you imagine how cool it would be, if we were able to memorize or store large amounts of data from whatever is it we see, or read for the very first time.

Sounds too good to be true right? Impossible I hear you say? Well, not quite.

Supposedly, the Roman Room technique or also known as the method of loci was created by the Greek poet Simonides of Ceos (c. 556 – 468 BC).

According to historians, the great Simonides was invited to chant a lyric poem in honor of his host, a nobleman of Thessaly.

Following this, Simonides was told that two men were waiting for him outside. Thus, he left the banquet for a moment to receive a message. While he was outside, the building collapsed, crushing everyone within. The bodies were so disfigured that they could not be identified for proper burial.

Hence, Simonides was called to help identify those who were present. Surprisingly, Simonides was able to identify the each and every one of the disfigured bodies and mangled bodies with precision . When asked how, he simply replied that he he had memorised where each one had been sitting.

The Roman Room System or the Method of Loci is a primitive yet effective way of recalling data where its component is not important. For example, it serves as the basis of one of the most effective mnemonic methods used to learn a new language or anything for that matter.

Allow me to explain: Take for an example:

If a Roman wanted to remember a list of things that needed to be done during the course of a particular day, he would mentally journey through his front door and then travel around the various corridors and rooms of his home, glancing at all of the paraphernalia that adorned his rooms as he went by.

He would then observe all of the important objects, such as statues, mirrors etc that he owned and then use the more prominent of these as pegs, linking an image relating in some way to what he wanted to remember to them.

Here's another example.

If he wanted to remember to buy his son a present for his birthday, then he might picture his son with a small group of his friends, sitting around a table in one of the rooms of the house, celebrating the boy’s birthday.

Alternatively, if the citizen wanted to remember to buy a new sword, then he might visualise one of his statues waving around a huge golden sword as he walked by.

If on the other hand he wished to remember to take a look at a new chariot, down at Crazy Cicero’s used Chariot dealership, then he might imagine a horse drawn chariot, charging down the length of his hall.

He might have arranged a meeting with a friend at the baths. To remember this, he could try picturing his dripping wet friend, leaning against one of the columns of the hall, with a towel wrapped around his waist looking anxiously at his sand timer.

Now in order to go over the above list, all that the Roman citizen would need to do, would be to simply close his eyes and mentally journey through the rooms of his house, making note of all that is unusual or out of place (the memory cues). Then the tasks that he needed to remember to do in that particular day would simply present themselves to him.

It is based on mentally positioning things-to-remember in a well-known room.

Use the Method of Loci by trying the following:

1. Imagine a very familiar place, such as a well-known street, building or room, which has many distinctive locations.

Imagine yourself walking through, for example, this room, carefully examining each location. For example, imagine walking in the door, turning right, seeing the bookcase, walking to the bookcase, looking at it, walking past it to the fireplace, looking in the fireplace, etc…

Now, make up a vivid, concrete list of everything that you need to remember. For example, the five things that you need to buy for a birthday party (e.g. cake, candles, balloons, present and music).

Associate each item with a location in the room. Imagine it as vividly as you can.

Walk through the room and look in each location, seeing the item where you placed in it.

Still not getting it? Keep reading.

Expanding the Roman Room System

The technique can be expanded in one way, by going into more detail, and keying images to smaller objects. Alternatively you can open doors from the room you are using into other rooms, and use their objects to expand the volume of information stored. When you have more experience you may find that you can build extensions to your rooms in your imagination, and populate them with objects that would logically be there.

Other rooms can be used to store other categories of information.

Moreover, there is no need to restrict this information to rooms: you could use a view or a town you know well, and populate it with memory images.

How To:Be A Supervillain

2011-05-25T16:50:00.011+01:00

Superheroes.

Don't you just hate them? Goody-two-shoes, do-gooders the lot of them? And while we're about it, isn't the world being badly run today? People not giving you the respect you deserve?

What if there were to be a way? A way you could do something about both of these problems? A way that you could rise up, overthrow the system, stamp your mark on the world for good, get a really cool nickname, and as a bonus side-effect, increase your chances with the ridiculously beautiful women?

Well, you could always try running for President, but that doesn't do much in the "cool nickname" stakes.

In short - you, my friend, are ideal Super villain material, and this step by step guide is going to show you how to make your evil rise to dominance!

Step One. How Super Do You Really Need To Be?

This may seem like a silly question - after all, it seems implicit in the name, right? Super villain and all that? But dig a little further, and it's not quite so simple or restrictive. Let's look at the evidence:

The Joker - no super powers, just purple clothes, a white face, a sociopath attitude and the best evil laugh in the business.

Step Two. The Evil Laugh.

It is absolutely vital that you perfect your evil laugh before you can be taken seriously as a super villain. No-one is going to take you seriously if, after announcing to the world leaders about your diabolical plot to hold the world to ransom, you begin giggling resembling a school going girl. No! Your laugh is a tool that must inspire fear in your victims and not merely a mild state of shock and /or indifference.

There are three standard "evil laughs" to choose from:

The Mad Scientist: "A-ha-hahahahhaaaha-hahah-aaaa-hhahaha!!"

To perfect this laugh, first find a suitably dark place, then laugh as loud and long as you can, preferably whilst raising both arms high into the air. This is really more of a cackle than a laugh, and it *must* be accompanied by a flash of lightning - if there isn't a handy thunderstorm at the appropriate moment, at least flick a light-switch on and off repeatedly - or better yet, get your minions to do it for you. For maximum effect, accompany this with shouts such as "they called me MAD ! MAD!!" or "now you're all going to pay!!"

The Demonic Overlord. Muahahahahaha!!"

To perfect this laugh, first find a large room, then laugh in as deep as tone as you can manage while seated.

The Psycho-Giggle: "Hee heeheeheeee hoo hooo hhaaaaa heee ha ha ah heeee hhaaaa!!"

Not exactly an evil laugh, but somehow the most terrifying of the lot - at any time and in any location, simply burst into hysterical, over-the-top high-pitched giggling fits. Preferably at moments of high tension, and never at anything truly funny.

Step Three. Choose Your Name.

Yes, OK, you already have a real name, but you need a super villain identity - your evil brand.

Your mother may have named you Clive, but you'll need something with a bit more oomph to it to really set yourself up. Simply adding sinister words to your own name won't work - Evil Clive, Clive the Destroyer, or Clive, Master of Chaos all still have the vital drawback of containing the name "Clive" here.

And it doesn't matter if you're name's not Clive - this is just an example. Unless you were lucky enough to be given a name like "Thraxx, Lord of Mayhem" by your parents, the effect is going to be the same.

You need a brand new super villain identity! Get creative for example.

TOM MARVOLO RIDDLE = I AM LORD VOLDERMORT

Something that rolls off the tongue easily is also important, as commanding the respect of your minions is a lot easier when they can pronounce your name.

Step Four : Choose Your Secret Lair.

Every super villain worth their needs a Secret Lair. We suggest you scout for prime locations very carefully - you need to consider several key criteria.

Step Five. Devise A Complex And Yet An Elaborate Death Trap For The Heroes.

A good Super-Villain Would Devise a Death Trap or Keep a Superhero Captive in Perilous Circumstances .If there’s one thing that separates a true super-villain from a run-of-the-mill gangster, felon or thug, it’s a sense of style. Finesse. Panache, if you will.

Death by gunshot is always over so quickly, and you never get to relish your enemy’s final agonizing moments. True, getting a thrill from watching your enemies get slowly lowered into a vat of boiling oil or a cage full of rabid wolverines may mark you as a twisted sadist.

Here are a few examples of the few.

Chained To A Railway.
Being Fed To Your Pet Beast.
Gas Chamber.
Spikes Of Doom.
Shark/ Aligator Pool
Get Creative, Be Imaginative. Eg. Get a hold of Kryptonite.

Step Six. Perfect Those Monologues.

Now you're really making progress, it's time to prepare a few monologues. These are a vital part of your arsenal, and no supervillain should be without them. Prepare them for as many situations as you like, but you should be sure to have the three main ones ready for the appropriate moments:

The Full Recap: Delivered to your minions, and used to bring them up to speed on your evil plot, despite them having been with you every step of the way so far.

The Mocking Gloat: Delivered to whichever superhero is your arch-enemy, and used to cow them into submission.

When your malevolent schemes are moving like clock work , and your plan to ensnare the hero has worked like a charm, don't forget to deliver a morale-crushing tirade to them about how their tiny intellect is no match for yours.

This is a tried and tested way of breaking their spirit, and will not in any way inspire them to greater efforts to escape and defeat you. In fact, as long as your plans are well-laid enough (and they're bound to be, right?) you may as well explain them all in detail.

With numbered diagrams, if need be, just to show how completely they have failed. Don't forget to sign off with something memorable, like "spend your last few moments knowing how assured my final victory is, super fool!" for maximum effect.

The Promise To Return: You'll never need it, of course, but just as every Secret Fortress Lair should have an escape tunnel, so every supervillain should have a good promise to return in the incredibly unlikely event of the hero somehow vanquishing them. A quick burst of "you may have won the day this time,but I will have my vengeance soon!" - followed by your finest evil laugh (remember step 2) and then an infeasible escape - is like your villainous calling card: don't leave the lair without one!

The Future.

Here, you are now a fully-fledged supervillain, ready to embark on your glorious campaign of crimes against humanity, hopefully leading to eventual World Domination.

The only boundaries are your own creativity, and the ineptitude of your minions. Good luck!

The Zombie Apocalypse; CDC warning. 21.05.2011.

2011-05-19T14:56:00.014+01:00

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control, is now publicly warning Americans to prepare for a zombie apocalypse. The U.S. government on the other hand, wishes to ensure you; that in the event of a zombie invasion you know what to do.

Here's to what I think;

Zombie gene mathematicians have recently found out a complicated algorithm supporting this prediction, which can be translated into:

If...

Living person + Death + Zombification = Undead

So...

Undead + Life = Death!

(As if A + B = C, then C - B = A, or something like that)

Anyway; So what do you need to do before zombies, actually decide to take over?

First of all, you should have an emergency kit in your house. This includes things like water, food, and other supplies to get you through the first couple of days before you can locate a zombie-free refugee camp (or in the event of a natural disaster, it will buy you some time until you are able to make your way to an evacuation shelter or utility lines are restored).

Below are a few items you should include in your kit;

Water (1 gallon per person per day)
Food (stock up on non-perishable items that you eat regularly)
Medications (this includes prescription and non-prescription medcine)
Tools and Supplies (utility knife, duct tape, battery powered radio, etc.)
Sanitation and Hygiene (household bleach, soap, towels, etc.)
Clothing and Bedding (a change of clothes for each family member and blankets)
Important documents (copies of your driver’s license, passport, and birth certificate to name a few)
First Aid supplies (although you’re a goner if a zombie bites you, you can use these supplies to treat basic cuts and lacerations,Plus; it can definitely cover up and mask the scent of blood).

#Tip 1: I suggest for you to not trust anybody while in a Zombie outbreak, but, do whatever you want.

Once you’ve made your emergency kit, you should sit down with your family and come up with an emergency plan. This includes where you would go and who you would call if zombies started appearing outside your door step.

1. Pick a meeting place for your family to regroup in case the zombies have decided to invade your home.

2.Identify your emergency contacts. Make a list of local contacts like the police, fire department, and your local zombie response team.

3.Plan your evacuation route. When zombies are hungry they won’t stop until they get food (i.e., brains), which means you need to get out of town fast! Plan where you would go and multiple routes you would take ahead of time so that the flesh eaters don’t have a chance!

And just in case, take my advice .

Grab hold of weapons such as; shotguns, chain saws, flamethrowers, swords and knives. Hand grenades, explosives and rockets are also prominently featured in zombie flicks. These weapons are usually what save the movie characters from being overrun by marauding zombies. Or get into a car I guess?

Survival Methods

Run
Run even faster
Run faster than that guy next to you
Trip the guy next to you
Shoot people randomly
Drive to Alaska (Zombies will freeze into corpsicles, but get there fast, the roads will be too congested and if you're too slow.
Go out to sea (zombies can't swim, but its fun to see them try.
Go find some beer (What...?)
Don't fall asleep in the open.
If surrounded, just distract them with a classy dance (Warning: May cause: Zombification, Death, Death, and more Death.)

It is not said, when or where this zombie outbreak would occur, however reporters on CNN have concurred that it might take place on the 21st of May 2011, which if you ask me is sort of a coincidence. Why? Well, some people are absolutely convinced that on this particular cheery day turning out to be judgement day. Yes people, the last day of the very race of the human civilization to end by an outbreak of zombies and massive earthquakes.

# Tip 2.REMEMBER:You NEVER have to outrun the zombies! You only have to outrun the guy next to you (tripping him/her helps).

Good Luck. ;)

2011-04-28T17:35:00.000+01:00

Hero of Heroes, Hercules.

2011-04-26T07:15:00.003+01:00

There are many versions to the tale revolving around Hercules. Personally, I do not think there is such a thing, as the 'right' or 'wrong' version of it. After all, it is these myths that were fabricated by people to explain the unexplained.

Hercules is the Roman name, for the Greek demi god, Hercales. A man tormented by a horrifying sin.Driven to take on twelve challenges, in order to get redemption.

His story begins,with Zeus having an aliased affair with Alcmene, and Hercules is born from this.

Hercules has one powerful enemy who wants to see him destroyed. It is Zeus's wife, the goddess Hera.

One night, when Hercules was still a baby, Hera sends two poisonous snakes, into his nursery.

Hercules grabs the snake, one in each hand. The little infant, squeezes the venomous snakes to death.

But Hera, is just getting started. Her vendetta against Hercules will determine the course of his life; from the cradle to the grave.

As the story continues, Hercules comes of age; a man god straddling two worlds, the human and the supernatural. The superhuman strength possessed by Hercules, makes it impossible for him to blend into the Greek society.

Desperate for some semblance for normality, Hercules marries a beautiful princess who bears him two sons. But his domestic bliss, is short lived. His nemesis Hera soon returns determined to make sure, he never has happiness. This time she'll transform him from family man, to a murderer. She sends madness to him as he sleeps. And in this madness, Hercules believes that his family are his enemies.

In the dead of night, Hercules commits an unspeakable horror. When Hercules wakes up from this ravenous madness, he finds himself covered in the blood of his children and his wife. He finds that he has murdered he's one family. When his blind rage subsides, it is replaced with intense remorse.

Lost disoriented, Hercules seeks out a guide in an attempt to seek redemption. For a chance of penance, Hercules seeks his cousin and arch enemy King Eurystheus. Eurysthesus was a grandson of the hero Perseus.

But this is a trick, Hera is using Eurysthesus as a tool to send Hercules to his doom.

Eurysthesus assigns Hercules, twelve challenges. ( All designed by Hera). They will be forever known as the, "Labors of Hercules". These labors have a function. The primary function is to remove the pollution from having killed his wife and both kids.

These labors consists of;

Slay the Nemean Lion.
Slay the nine-headed Lemaean Hydra.
Capture the Golden Hind of Artemis.
Capture the Erymanthian Boar.
Clean the Augean stables in a single day.
Slay the Stymphalian Birds.
Capture the Cretan Bull.
Steal the Mares of Diomedes.
Obtain the girdle of Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons.
Obtain the cattle of the monster Geryon.
Steal the apples of the Herperidus.
Capture and bring back Cerberus.

The quest of the first labor begins, with the quest to kill a savage beast. The problem for Hercules is that even though he is a magnificent archer, the lion's skin is impervious to his arrows. So, it's only through brute strength he is able to overcome the lion. And when he succeeds doing so, Hercules skins the lion which he adopts as his armor. Thus, from then on Hercules is always depicted to as wearing the lion's skin.

King Eurysthesus, is stunned, he thought the Hercules's first labor would be his last. Now. he lays out a series of even more monstrous challenges, sure to put end to the hero. It is man versus nature.

The second labor challenges Hercules to kill another monstrous freak of nature. The dreaded nine headed Hydra, a poison spitting serpent that devours men in one bite. Hercules takes his sword and attacks, and slices through one of the serpent's neck. Then another, decapitating the monster one head at a time. But as soon as each head is cut off, two more grow in it's place.

This represents the human lust for pleasure, which the Greeks believe is to be un-kill able. Sort of a metaphor. Hercules needs a new strategy. Against this enemy , his success is induced more than his mere strength. Hercules grabs a torch, and scorches the skin of the beast.This prevents the beast from growing more heads. With a final thrust, Hercules serest the last head of the beast. After slaying the Hydra, Hercules dips his arrows into the serpent's venomous blood. And, from then on, he has poison arrows.

Our word, 'toxic' meaning poisonous comes from the Greek word, 'toxon' which means of a bows where you fire arrows with.

In his next two labors, Hercules conquers another pair of nature's formidable beasts. The golden stag of Artemis, an animal so fast it can outrun an arrow in flight. And, a vicious man eating boar, a monster Hercules manages to capture alive.

Eurysthesus who had set him these tests,never expected Hercules to succeed. To break the hero's momentum, tries changing tactics. He introduces a different kind of obstacle; raw sewage.

For his fifth labor, Hercules must take on a dirty job, that depicts the foul side of human nature. He must clean a complex stand, of horse manure stables. Now, this labor is different from the others as it involves menial labor. In a way that Hercules has not been submitted before in the previous labors. And, Hercules is only given a day to accomplish the task. Hercules, notices that the repulsive stables lie in between two rivers, and he gets an idea. Hercules uses his immense strength to divert the rivers, in to the stables, and flush everything out.

In the myth, it is the same perseverance that keeps Hercules to keep going at it.

In his sixth labor, Hercules must face a pack of ferocious pack of man eating birds. This symbolizes mankind's unreachable goals. Hercules,shoots one of his poisonous arrows and succeeds.

For his seventh labor, Hercules must travel to island nation of Crete, to find and capture the prized animal of King Minus. He tracks down the bull, and wrestles it into submission and sails it back home.

Seven labors down. And, now it will be man versus man. In his next two settlements, Hercules must face two rulers who posses a danger to Greece.

First, he targets Diomedes, a tyrannical king of Bucephalus. Diomedes has trained his horses to eat the flesh of his enemies. Hercules makes him, their next meal. This labor sent a powerful message to the ancient Greeks; is that the evil you create, will in the end destroy you.

The killing spree continues in his next labor, when Hercules confronts the Amazons. The amazons, consisted of a ferocious tribe of female warriors. After a mighty battle, and the slaying if Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons, Hercules is able to obtain her girdle.

But as the challenges go on it becomes clear to Hercules, that no amount of physical pain can ease his mental anguish. Hercules is a prisoner of his own guilt.

For his next form of labor, Hercules must venture beyond the Mediterranean Sea, into the Atlantic Ocean. He must obtain a cattle owned by the Geryon monster. But one massive obstacle stands in his way. A mountain range that joins both Africa and Europe as a whole and seals off the sea form the ocean.

Hercules decides not to go around the mountain but through it. He splits the mountain in two with one blow of his sword. This part of the myth, was created to explain how both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean were joined. The cliffs from each side are forever linked to Hercules.

Beyond these pillars, the monster Geryon guarding the cattle awaits. The three headed monsters, comes out fighting, hurling huge boulders down the mountain at Hercules. But Hercules, has a secret weapon. Arrows dipped in the venom of an earlier conquest; the Hydra. He takes aim and fires. The Geryon falls dead, and Hercules claims his cattle. Ten labors down.

Next Hercules must go to the edge of the world, to steal golden apples in garden guarded by a monster with a hundred heads. In the Hercules story, there is a deadly twist, as these golden apples are grown by the Goddess Hera. And these apples are sacred symbol of Hera's union with Zeus. Apples and marriage are two elements which are often combined in Greek mythology.

Hercules wonders for years in search for Hera's apples, but with no luck. He then travels to the ends of the earth, where he meets Atlas. Atlas was one of the titans, and it was his job to carry on his shoulders the weight of the world. Literally, he bears the world on his shoulders. This modern phrase, 'to carry the world on one's shoulders' comes directly from the myth of Atlas. Hercules is exhausted and lost, but Atlas knows where the apples are. So, Hercules volunteers to hold the world, while Atlas goes to retrieve it. Atlas returns with the apples, but there is a catch. Atlas tells Hercules, that he refuses to take on the earth and skies again. Hercules, than tricks Atlas, into holding on the world, while he taking the apples, leaves for his next form of labor.

Now, Hercules is one challenge away from his freedom. And it will send him to a place where no mortal has returned alive, the land of the dead. For his last form of labor, Hercules is sent to capture Cerberus, the ferocious three headed dog that lives in Hades. The main job of Cerberus, is to make sure that none of the dead may escape. Hercules tries a diplomatic approach with Hades, he asks Hades permission to take the guard dog up to earth. Hades agrees but under one condition; Hercules must overpower the beast with nothing but his fists. This is the final moment of truth. Hercules wrestles the dog to the ground and beats it into submission.

At last, Hercules has completed his penance. He has overcome every obstacle that has been put in his path, and has endured both physical and mental torment beyond measure. By all rights, he should finally be in peace. Hera holds an undying grudge against Hercules, for being Zeus illegitimate son. There is only way, to escape Hera's curse; death. Hercules builds a huge funeral brie. His life on earth ends, just as he had endured it; in torment.

In death, Hercules is finally redeemed. Zeus, the King of Gods, believes his son has suffered enough, He invites Hercules, to join him on Mount Olympus, and his rival Hera finally relents. What we see here, is that Hercules is the hero of heroes, the greatest of the great.

In the end, Hercules is resurrected and joins his father, in the eternal kingdom. It has an ending with an eerie similarity to another divine mortal, Jesus Christ. Hercules's final act is self sacrifice. And again, there is an interesting Christian parallel with the hero who has to suffer to obtain immortality. And, when Hercules had lit himself on fire, it burns away all the mortality and all that is left of him is his essence, which ascends into the heavens.

This is the story of Hercules, a timeless story of strength, suffering, and redemption. It is the kind of story almost everyone wants to hear, because everyone has experienced toil, and challenges . Hercules achieves success in the end. It points out to us that there will always be some sort of possibility towards success, no matter how difficult our life may seem.

2011-04-25T12:18:00.000+01:00

First of the mythic heroes,Perseus

2011-04-24T13:20:00.011+01:00

When he was a baby, Perseus and his mother Danae were casted out to the sea, by his grandfather;King Acrisius, King of Argos. This is because, there was a foretold prophecy by the oracle which stated that Acrisius would one day be killed by his daughter's son. Mother and son were both expected to die. But Persues's divine father, Zeus protected them. They were washed to shore on an island named Serifos, and settled there.

Perseus grows up to be a strong willed lad. He is also very protective his mother, Danae. Perseus has a very good reason to feel protective. The ruler of Serifos has plans for his mother. The King of Serifos, was not enthusiastic about having Perseus on his land. This is partly because, he has fallen for Danae, who happens to be a young and beautiful woman. The king, hatches a plan to get Perseus out of the picture.

He demands expensive gifts from all of his subjects, and vows to banish any who don't comply. The king knows, Perseus is poor and wont be able to deliver. Perseus, is cornered. If he is exiled his mother will be forced into an unwanted marriage. Hence, they will be separated forever. He makes an impulsive decision, with deadly ramifications. Perseus, tells the king that he will bring the head of Medusa as his form of gift to the king.

Perseus starts off his adventure, and soon finds out he does not know what he's doing.Under the circumstances of being lost, clueless, and almost like any Greek hero, Perseus prays. His prayers are heard, by his father Zeus. Following this, Zeus sends the divine messenger Hermes. Hermes presents Perseus with a pair of winged sandals. Thus, Perseus is able to fly to distant continents at the speed of jet. Hermes offers Perseus an insight tip, he advises him to locate the s

tringent nymphs. ( Beautiful women who can present him with the powerful weapons he needs, to kill Medusa).

The whereabouts relating to the nymphs are a mystery. Only three hideous women, know where to find them;the Graeae, sisters. These sisters were described to be old, withered hags, and they don't like visitors. The sisters only have an eyeball to see, which they take turns to share and see. Perseus realizes without the eye, all three of them are blind. As the sisters were passing it around, Perseus seizes this opportunity by snatching it out of their bare hands.

Now, Perseus has the upper hand, he demands the location of the nymphs. The sisters reveal that the nymphs live on the river stakes, the water way that separates the land of the living and the dead. Perseus, has what he had come for. He tosses off the eye in to the sand and takes off into the skies.

It is the gateway to Hades, where Perseus locates the nymphs. The nymphs present Perseus with three weapons; the sword of Zeus, the shield of Athena, and the helmet of Hades. Now, Perseus is ready to fulfill his destiny.

Perseus stands at the trash old of Medusa's lair. The young heroes takes his steps, backwards seeking Medusa. Using the reflection in his shield as his guide, he manages to locate Medusa. Perseus closes his eyes, and takes a swing with his mighty sword. Medusa's head falls to the ground; A tragic end for a tragic figure.

One of the remarkable thing about the head of Medusa, is that it can still be used even after being departed from the body.

Perseus arrives just as his mother is about to marry the king. Perseus's grandfather, King Acrisius is also there. Perseus, is very angry. He then lifts Medusa's head and yells out loud, "King, I have brought you, the gift!". With a single glance, both kings are turned into a stone. Perseus is now a hero. He is able to save his mother from being forced into an unwanted marriage. He is able to accomplish what other men have failed to do. In his hand, he holds the most powerful weapon on earth,Medusa's head.

After saving his mother, Perseus presents the head of Medusa as a tribute to Athena, the goddess who created the monster. In the end, it is Medusa's original punisher who inherits her power. There is a poetic quality related to this myth,as Medusa's head becomes the icon on the brass plate of Athena.

Medusa's story has come full circle. Her myth ends, where it began, in one of ancient Greeks great temples; the Parthenon. Above it, she and the man who took her life, forever linked in the night skies.

There is another story revolving around Persues and his marriage to Andromeda.

You can look it up in wikipedia; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perseus .

It's more of facts, than story telling though.

All the best! :)

2011-04-24T04:45:00.001+01:00

The Tragic Tale of Medusa.

2011-04-21T06:33:00.005+01:00

If looks could kill, you would be dead.Turned to stone with just one glance. This is the myth of Medusa, a monstrous female, feared by all men. On the battle field and beyond. Is Greece's most famous monster inspired by a human corpse?

The myth of Medusa, has captivated us for almost 3000 years. Her gaze penetrates right into one's inner being, and petrifies them from the inside out. Today her image still commands recognition around the world.

In ancient Greece, myths made sense of a confusing world. Their stories recorded history, explained nature, and dictated how people should live. The Medusa myth was no exception.

To the ancient Greeks Medusa's deadly image was one of the most terrifying in all of mythology.

However, she was not always a monster. According to the myth, Medusa was once a ravishing woman. Every man in Greece wanted to possess her. What she is described is , that she was a beautiful woman with long flowing locks of hair, every suitor wants to marry her, she causes envy among everyone,etc.

But, Medusa can't get married. She is a priestess of Athena, the goddess of war and bound by an eternal vow of chastity. Medusa the hideous image of evil, starts off as a symbol of purity.

Athena's temple is no myth. It still stands today high across the Athenian Acropolis , the Parthenon. In Greek, it means place of the virgin. When it was completed in 430 BC, it towered over the city of Athens. At the center of the temple, stood a colossal statue of Athena, nearly forty feet high, carved out of ivory and gold. In the myth, this is where Medusa's tragic fate unfolds.

Medusa's beauty is off limits, locked away in service to Athena. But one suitor will not let her vow of chastity stand in his way; Poseidon, god of the sea. In a fit of raw lust, Poseidon makes his move and ravages the virgin priestess.

Medusa is devastated. Her innocence has been stolen, her life changed forever. She was a rape victim, so she was no longer eligible for an ordinary marriage according to the customs of Greece. And, she was no longer a virgin either, therefore she could no longer be of service to a goddess.

Athena is furious, but not at Poseidon; As a powerful male god, this is expected of him. In the eyes of Athena, it is Medusa that deserves to be punished. The victim is about to become the accused.

Athena is one of the guys. So she has this role that places her in that kind of male camp. She is going to side with the men.

In a way, it reflects a society that considers women more as property value. They recognize that rape is necessarily harmful to the women. But, it doesn't seem in most of these myths, that there should be any sympathy at all. And frequently,the female figure who is the victim is punished.

Athena will impose a devastating punishment upon her shattered priestess. She will transform Medusa from a beauty, into a beast. Her new look will bear a terrifying resemblance to a human corpse.

In the myth, the goddess Athena curses Medusa without a warning. It begins in an agonizing transformation. Her skin cracks and withers, her long silky hair is replaced with venomous snakes. A mere glance at her, will change anyone into stone.

For the tragic crime of being raped,Medusa has lost her status, beauty and her ability to look at anyone without killing them. Now the final blow, she is banished to a remote and desolate island for life.

The name Medusa actually had a positive connotation, meaning "Guardian". Her image was often used to warn off danger.

In the myth, Medusa has a price on her head. Warriors travel to her remote island seeking to steal it, and use it's petrifying power as a weapon against their enemies. So far all who have tried, made the same mistake; they looked at her.

2011-04-21T06:33:00.001+01:00

2011-04-20T15:50:00.000+01:00

Hades, Lord Of The Underworld.

2011-04-20T15:49:00.004+01:00

This is the land of the dead,and this is it's master. Hades, a god so feared no one would speak his name. His myth reveals how the ancient Greeks viewed death. In Greek mythology, Hades is the oldest male child of Cronus and Rhea. According to Greek myth, Hades rules the underworld, and it functions to reward the good, and punish the bad.

Hades is depicted as the warden of death. And,all mortals, whether good or bad will eventually have to face him. It his job to make sure they never escape. The Greeks wanted nothing to do with him, because to even know him, one has to be dead.

In a lush green Pasteur, a beautiful maiden is picking flowers. Her name is Persephone, and she is being watched. Suddenly, the ground breaks open an unseen hand reaches up from the darkness and drags her down in to the underworld. Hades, the Lord of Death, has chosen his queen.

According to the myth, dead souls enter a vast and gloomy world, named after it's master; Hades. It is a combination of all, heaven, hell and limbo. In the myth, there are three levels of Hades.The first region is refers to as the Fields of Asphodel.These souls wander around, aimlessly and lead a very uninteresting life for eternity. Then, there is the second place, Tartarus (Hell), which serves as a dungeon to punish those who offended the gods.This is very much closely related as Hell in Christianity. For the fortunate few, paradise awaits in the Isle of The Blessed. It is equivalent as Heaven .There is constant rejoicing, merry making, streams, etc,etc.

But Persephone is not forgotten, as someone is looking for her in the land of the above. It is her powerful mother, Demeter, the harvest goddess and it is her job to feed the earth.She is able to destroy the humankind. And, she is held responsible for the change in seasons. It is said, that because of Persephone's disappearance, Demeter is said to wander the earth searching for her daughter. And in this midst, she forgets to feed the earth, plants withered and died, people no longer gave birth.The world had descended into the deepest,deepest of the winters.

Faced with the prospects, of an endless frost, the other gods ordered Hades to release Persephone. But, Hades has a plan. Hades knew, if he could get Persephone to eat food belonging to the underneath, she would eventually belong to the underworld. Hades offers Persephone a snack of pomegranate seeds,and she naively accepts and seals her faith. She must now spend three months of every year in the underworld, one for every seed she ate, in Hades. And the rest, of the year with her mother. Hence, when Persephone is with her mother, it is in the seasons of summer and spring. However, when she was away, the earth suffered in winter.

The rejected souls that walked in the realms of Hades, were determined to come back to the land of the living,- Ghosts. Hades assembles a gang of enforcers to watch over his dead souls; Cerberus, a ferocious three headed guard dog, Hecatoncheires as guards at the bronze gates and of course, the principal henchman; Charon.

Charon has a job of ferrying souls, across the realms. He is described as a skeletal figure, very demonic, decay. In terms of popular culture he comes down as the Grim Reaper. He comes down, and takes the soul intended. There is no way into Hades, except through Charon. And no one can cross the river stakes for free. If the soul doesn't have the money to pay Charon, his soul is said to wander forever in the shore of the sticks. This is why, there was always a coin placed under the tongue of the deceased. And, if this isn't done properly, these soul return as ghosts or evil spirits that torment the mortal world.

This can also be seen in the Hindu culture, whereby a coin is placed on the forehead of the deceased.

Charon, has also made his appearence in other cultures as well. He comes as Yama in the Buddhism and Chinese Mythology.Yama was understood by Buddhists as a god of the dead, supervising the various Buddhist "hells".

At the same time, there are many of those who attempt to cheat death.

An old weakened man stands wearily at the bottom of a mountain. Sweat dreams down his face, veins explode from within the skin. His name is Sisyphus, and he is the very first soul that tried to defeat Hades. Just before his life on earth ended,Sisyphus made plans to cheat death. Sisyphus says to his wife; 'Please don't bury me'. He knows that if his wife doesn't bury him he wont go through all the way to the other side of Hades. He would be stuck, in what would be called a no man's land.

Sisyphus know better than to cheat the Lord of death himself. So, he turns to Persephone. He tells her, that his wife has not burried his body, and wishes to return to scold his wife for doing so. Persephone, allows him to do so. When Hades finds out, he punishes Sisyphus to push a huge boulder up a steep hill in Tartarus. And, when the boulder reaches the top, it rolls back to the bottom. Thus, Sisyphus has to push it uphill again, in a never ending process.

The tale of Orpheus and Eurydice is indeed a heartbreaking love story.

Orpheus, is a musician who makes the most loveliest music in the world, and this will become his form of weapon against the Lord of the Dead.

There is only one thing what Orpheus loves more than music, is his wife Eurydice. A tragic day came, when a satyr saw and pursued Eurydice. Eurydice frightened, ran and fell into a pit of venomous snakes, which killed her instantly.

Distraught, Orpheus travelled to the underworld to retrieve her. Upon reaching, Orpheus is unable to pay Charon a bribe to to secure him a passage way into Hades. So, he plays his music instrument that enchants Charon into giving him a free passage ride. There, Orpheus played his lyre to put Cerberus, the guardian of Hades, to sleep. Finally, Orpheus comes face to face with the god of the dead himself, Hades. His music softened the hearts of Hades and Persephone who in return agreed to allow Eurydice to return with him to earth on one condition.

Orpheus should walk in front of her and not look back until they both had reached the upper world. He set off with Eurydice following, and, in his anxiety, as soon as he reached the upper world, he turned to look at her, forgetting that both needed to be in the upper world, and she vanished for the second time, but now forever.

The Birth of Zeus. In Greek Mythology

2011-04-20T07:55:00.002+01:00

First we have the titans. The titans were a race of powerful deities. The role of the Titans as Elder Gods was overthrown by a race of younger gods, the Olympians, in the Titanomachy ("Battle with the Titans").

However, from what we know, we can conclude that the titans, even being godly themselves, were not civilized . The leader, of titans, was Cronus. Among Hellenistic scholars in Alexandria and during the Renaissance, Cronus was conflated with the name of Chronos, the personification of "Father Time", wielding the harvesting scythe. Cronus, married his own flesh and blood, his sister Rhea.

Why? In Cronus’s point if view, who would be more suitable and ideal mate for him, if not for his own sister? An equal, a god, who shares the same power with himself. Rhea, on the other hand, was described as someone, who was quite breathtakingly beautiful, and incredibly ingenious.

When Rhea, conceived Cronus’s first offspring, a foretold prophecy, had Cronus becoming distraught, and fearful. The prophecy foretold that the offspring of Cronus may overthrow his father, and claim the power the authority and power for himself, just as Cronus had done in the beginning. Apprehensive, Cronus devised a plan to overcome his coming rival. He orders Rhea, to bring the offspring to him, the very minute she delivers. Rhea, not knowing what was to become of her first born, willingly obliged.

Once, Rhea had given birth, to their first born, Hestia, Cronus had devoured his child, wholly. Now, Hestia, being a divine god, was devoured by her own father, she was not consumed, but merely, trapped in the belly of Cronus. Time passed, and the tradition continued. Cronus had swallowed whole four of his offspring. Not being able, to bear this, when Rhea, gave birth to her fifth child, she was determined to save him, from the same cruel fate that had become of his brothers and sisters.

Rhea gave birth to Zeus in Crete, handing Cronus a stone wrapped in swaddling clothes, which he promptly swallowed. Then she hid Zeus in a cave on Mount Ida in Crete. Zeus, grew in seclusion and devised a plan to bring down Cronus. Based on research, there is such a resemblance between the birth of Zeus, and the parallel work of Jesus Christ, or even the birth of Lord Krishna in Hindu folklore.

All three young, children, grew in seclusion away from the enemy’s eyes. And grew in an environment closer to animals. Now, Zeus , knew that he would need the help of his siblings, in order to accomplish his ambition. So, concocted a drink, that would force Zeus to regurgitate his siblings that were enslaved in the very belly of Cronus. When, Cronus had consumed this drink, he was disoriented. Zeus forced Cronus to disgorge the other children in the reverse order in which they had been swallowed, the oldest becoming the last, and youngest: first the stone ; Hestia, Demeter, Hera , Hades, and Poseidon.

Then Zeus released the brothers of Cronus, the Gigantes, the Hecatonkheires and the Cyclops from Tartarus (hell), who gave him the power of thunder and lightning in their expression of gratitude. Together, united with his fellow siblings, and the creatures from hell, they were able to overthrew Cronus and the other Titans. They defeated Titans were then cast into a shadowy underworld region known as Tartarus. Atlas, one of the titans that fought against Zeus, was punished by having to hold up the sky. After the battle with the Titans, Zeus shared the world with his elder brothers, Poseidon and Hades, by drawing lots: Zeus got the sky and air, Poseidon the waters, and Hades the world of the dead (the underworld).

The ancient Earth, Gaia, could not be claimed; she was left to all three, each according to their capabilities, which explains why Poseidon was the "earth-shaker" (the god of earthquakes) and Hades claimed the humans that died. Zeus was brother and consort of Hera. Many myths render Hera as jealous of his amorous conquests and a consistent enemy of Zeus' mistresses and their children by him. For a time, a nymph named Echo had the job of distracting Hera from his affairs by incessantly talking: when Hera discovered the deception, she cursed Echo to repeat the words of others.

Can An Apple A Day, Keep The Doctor Away?

2011-04-19T05:32:00.001+01:00

This is an old saying and nothing more. Apples do not have any magical powers to prevent diseases but scientist have proven that apples does give the human body much of the potassium that it needs. This mineral when combined with many others, does help keep the body strong and healthy.

Meanwhile, I find apples can go well with pretty much most ingredients, which results with mouth watering dishes. It goes well with;

a. Cinnamon
b. Nutmeg
c. Pork Chops ( I'm not sure if it works the same with either beef or chicken)
d.Raisins
e.Almonds
f. Pineapple Chunks
g. Peanut butter
h. Cloves
i. Jicama
j. Raddish
k. Allspice
l. Cabbage slow in balsamic vinegar and oil
m.Name others :)

Amazing isn't it?

There are nearly 10,000 varieties of apples grown throughout the world. Of this 10,000 more than 7000 are grown in the United States!

2011-04-19T05:23:00.004+01:00

2011-04-13T04:30:00.005+01:00

I enjoy baking, as it helps me to get my mind off things. Things I don't want to think about. And the end product, of whatever it is; I bake gives me such pleasure when it turns out; oh so perfectly. So here's one that I do, that's alway's a big hit and tends to leave an empty plate behind.

Nothing To It Cupcakes.

12 oz of Self Raising Flour

10 oz of Sugar (fine granulated)

8 oz of Butter

1 tin of Evaporated Milk

1 bag of Chocolate chips.

First, cream the butter and sugar until it becomes light.

Then gradually add spoonfuls of flour and milk alternately and mix.

Once done, finally add the bag of chocolate chips, any desired amount and fill up the cupcake paper liners 1/2 to 2/3 full.

Bake approximately 20 minutes at 180 *C, and check by using a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cupcakes.

If the cupcakes aren't finished cooking after the minimum time, then place them back in the oven for some additional cooking time.

And that's about it really. I make about 36 from the batch.

But yesterday, I got a little ambitious and decided to tweak with it, try something new. So at the end, after using up all the flour and milk, I added 2 spoons of sifted hot chocolate powder in to my batter. Surprisingly, it turned out even better and was a big hit at the charity party. Amazing. Hahaha. Good Luck!

The Human Mind.

2011-04-12T04:34:00.006+01:00

Amazing thing isn't it? The human brain and how it works? They say that we are only able to utilize 20% of it. But can you imagine, what we can accomplish if we could make use of the other 80%. Incredible. There wouldn't be such a thing, as 'human limits". Our extraordinary mind which is ;able to unfold events while we sleep. We refer these events as 'dreams', and yet scientist are still unable to reason out as to why we dream. Sometimes, these dreams are able to predict some of the future events that are bound to happen. The root of this phenomena lies within one's subconscious mind. Which brings me to my next rhetorical question. Just imagine, if we were capable of utilizing it, toying with it with it's hidden magic? Great Indian Sages, were said to unravel the Universe by deep meditation and of course control of the subconscious mind. In fact, there are even psychologists who are able to treat patients without drugs, merely using this aspect of the human mind. This is referred to as, 'Neuro -linguistic programming'. And this is based on patterns of thought. Amazing. The possibilities for the human race are endless, if we are able to maximize the power within us. And this made possible by following these steps.

1. Meditation. 2. Meditation. 3.Meditation. 4. . .

good luck!

Lost In Translation.

2011-03-30T07:34:00.011+01:00

Hello. I know it's been really a long time, since I actually sat down to blog; either something intellectual. . .or a discussion regarding literature. . .or maybe about my personal life. . But, I have good excuse as to why. . .and it is well. .I've been busy. :)

A lot has happened. And I mean a lot. I've discovered, those whom; I've had great and high expectations of in the past, has indeed let me down. My friends, well; we've taken different routes in life, hence we rarely contact one another. However, this doesn't deny the fact that I miss them any less.

My rivals or so I seem them as, have showed great deal of progression in their lives. They have made a quantum leap,and are in the pathway in becoming someone highly successful . Although, there isn't the slightest improvement in terms of their personality, but I assure you, I am happy and content in their road to success.

My good friends. The one's I had. Well, they're pretty much all over the place. Doing something they all love, and pursuing their dreams. As for the one's I made recently in the past year or two, well, they too are driving towards a busy but yet a happy life. Not to mention, I miss both of these parties greatly.

As I am approaching my 20th birthday ,which is nearing in a matter of days, I took a good glimpse of my life. And might i say, I love this life of mine. It's been an extraordinary journey. Though it might not be pleasant all the way, and there were things, that now I wish I could do differently but overall, I am quite satisfied with it. Even as I look back upon it now, my childhood memories which begin to flood my mind never fails to paint a smile on my face.

To the point.

I miss you, Syarifah Aliaa Diyana binti Amminudin. More than you can possibly imagine. You were and always will be, first and foremost my best friend. No, that doesn't really sum it up, would it better if I said, you're like my sister. I love you too much.

When I take a walk down memory lane, I find that I must have been quite a handful to deal with. But through thick and thin, you were my constant companion. The distance between us has put a great deal of strain our friendship,but I'm certain that it wont die out as candles light nearing the end of it's wick. For we shall be the very best of friends till the end's of time.

Even though, Al, I've been hurt too many times to remember, either direct or indirectly, physically and emotionally, when I think of you or even browse through our little scribbled notes throughout high school, it's that which helps me to get through the day alive and happy.

Thank you.

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost

2011-03-04T04:48:00.000Z

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village, though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

To My dear readers,

2010-07-02T06:52:00.001+01:00

Thank you so much, for taking your time, to read my endless list whines and complaints. & Thank you, for then, adding me, on my Facebook .Thank you. But, I feel that you deserve better.

Therefore, I have decided to share some of the things I think about, and research and analysis, that I have done. It may not be, all right, but, Ill be happy to accept any kinds of criticisms, or ideas of some sort. Thank you again.

All the best.

*Sincerely- Priya.

2010-02-05T17:39:00.001Z

Syarifah Aliaa Diyana

Many happy returns of the day.
I'll take you out, for dinner,when you're in town.
I so,so,so, super love you.

A simple celebration
a gathering of friends
here is wishing u great happiness
a joy that never ends.
(Happy Birthday)

One Week

2010-01-31T15:15:00.000Z

Hi,
I know, I know It's been ages since I updated,But, I really have been busy. I'm serious. It wasn't until my friend, Amirah, reminded me that I actually had a blog, ROFL. Okay, so you have the right to sue me for negligence, but hey, I've really had a lot of stuff going on. . Sorry, Again, So sorry. . .

So far, my classes are okay. We're having T8, 9& 10. And,well the hours are long, and we only have like 30 minutes break in between lectures, So, yeah, plus it takes me an hour to reach home, but when in reality my campus is just a stone mile a way. . .

I went out yesterday, to celebrate Neeru's advanced birthday. We went to Republic. Seriously,it's devastatingly lame. . It should merge with Rainforest , for their lousy Christmas decoration that they have throughout the entire year. . I was happy, to be with my school mates again. .They are just awesome & genuine people . . .Gosh,I guess I'm blessed,to have the best friends whether in college or school

But truth be told, I couldn't really enjoy myself. It just kept bringing up stuff that had happened a week ago. .It's just very depressing, and it kills you inside, and you just cant cry for help. . . I can't help it, I just start breaking down, whenever I'm alone, it's like a routine ritual, I've been doing for the past 1 week, before I go to bed. . and the best part, the party involved doesn't have a clue

The only person who knows whats going on, well, like partial of the story, would be my very dear friend. . She knows whats up,and at least tries her very best to console, But, how much can she really do? I'm just so deeply hurt,and I feel like really, really emo . . .So,the question I ask myself is, " What can I do,to ease the pain?". . .

Exams are starting this Friday . I'll study hard, for it,well, except for Tax, cause I seriously don't know whats going on. . .Sorry, Mr.Simon.

My UK results will be out soon. As if it, that's anything to be looking forward to. . Gosh,it's like what my friend said, "Being depressed can be tiring". . .