Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (iA)

Qatar Bans Alcohol

2012-01-20T10:53:00.002+04:00

Qatar has banned the sale of alcohol, a move expected to be followed by other Muslim countries in the Arab Gulf.

“Qatar is hardly the first Gulf state in which the local population has expressed its concerns over the sale of alcohol,” Guy Wilkinson, managing partner at Dubai hospitality consultancy, Viability, told Arabian Business.

“Following the Arab Spring, I expect Muslim parties to have more and more influence over the control of alcohol throughout the region.”

The Qatari government ordered a ban on alcohol sales in Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island near the capital, Doha, earlier this month.

The move was taken following complaints from locals about the growing consumption of alcohol in the tiny Muslim country.

“Just a few years back, one could only find it in just a few luxury hotels and clubs with strict entry procedures,” he said.

“The fact that its population has increased so fast over the last few years has evidently not changed the concerns of Muslims over the potential ill effects of alcohol consumption, particularly in terms of moral behavior.”

Islam takes an uncompromising stand in prohibiting intoxicants. It forbids Muslims from drinking or even selling alcohol.

The general rule in Islam is that any beverage that get people intoxicated when taken is unlawful, both in small and large quantities, whether it is alcohol, drugs, fermented raisin drink or something else.

Public anger has already been rising against the sale and consumption of alcohol in the country.

"I don't see a reason to have alcohol [in Qatar]," Qatari writer Abdul Aziz Al Mahmoud told the Wall Street Journal last week.

"It impacts very negatively on locals. Locals are not happy with it."

Hassan Al Ibrahim, a Qatari commentator, shared a similar view.

"It is a taboo in Qatar to see somebody wearing the national dress and drinking," he said.

But Chiheb Ben Mahmoud, head of Hotel Advisory for the Middle East and North Africa at Jones Lang LaSalle, believes that the alcohol ban was always a “delicate balance” for Gulf governments.

“Sometimes, local public opinion is heated up on the back of a combination of factors,” he said.

“It is common for authorities in these cases to act swiftly in order to defuse tension and prevent the issue from heating up further and getting out of control.”

The Qatari ban on alcohol sales is seen as a step to be followed by other Arab countries in the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, has an outright ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol.

In Bahrain, the government forced the closure of bars and clubs in the country’s three-star hotels in 2009.

Oman has also confined the sale of alcohol to certain hotels and restaurants.

Dubai also last year banned standalone bars and restaurants from displaying alcohol behind their bars.

The big question: Will other Gulf countries follow suit?

Source: Qatar Bans Alcohol

Revival..

2010-08-03T11:59:00.002+04:00

It was inspiration that I had lost. Lost in a world of misery and disappointment. Drowned in that lost world.
The recovery path was not an easy one. Yet I have made it past all that.

I have found it again. Inspiration - as difficult as it is to find once lost, it is the most beautiful feeling ever. The feeling of recovery. The burst of life back in place. All that lost energy back, leaves me confused as to where to start.

In the very least, I believe this would mean a far more frequent update of my blog. Its a pleasure to be back.

:)

It's time to Waka Waka in South Africa

2010-06-11T16:25:00.000+04:00

The four year long weary wait has finally com to end. The adrenaline rush now more intense than ever with just about an hour left for the first kick-off. The FIFA World Cup has stirred life and excitement into many lives... uniting several people around the world under one common interest.

Its definitely going to be a fun filled, thrilling and breath taking one month long event. Will the grounds of South Africa live upto the memorable moments of the past world cup matches? Only time will tell..

The other anticipation is whether our favorite teams and players live upto our expectations and not let their fans down? Fingers crossed..

There was South African fan on BBC who predicted a 3-nil South African victory in the first match today. Hopes are high, and several thousands of supporters will be cheering for South Africa today. I pray for their sake, that the team puts on a good fight.. and if the better team of the two - even wins!

:D

The Sparrow!

2009-09-30T09:33:00.003+04:00

After a nice long break.. writing again..

Today's inspiration was a short narration I heard on the radio.

It starts in the backyard of an ordinary home. Sitting on the bench at one end is a cute old man, staring at the grass and the flowers and cherishing whatever little time he has left with nature. Beside him is a young man, in his 30's deeply engrossed in the newspaper he is reading.

A short while later, a little bird lands in their backyard pecking away at something in the dirt. The old man smiles, and watches it for a while. Then he asks, "Son, what bird is that?" The young man looks up from his newspaper and answers, "Dad, its a sparrow." And then he goes back to reading his newspaper. A few minutes later, the old man asks again, "Son, what bird is that?" Again the young man, looks up from his newspaper (a little frustrated this time), and answers in a louder tone, "Dad, IT'S A SPARROW!" He goes back to reading his newspaper. A few minutes later, the old man asks yet again, "Son, what bird is that?" The young man having completely lost his temper, fold his newspaper, puts it down on the bench and yells, "DAD, HOW MANY TIMES MUST I TELL YOU?! HAVE YOU GONE DEAF? WHY ARE YOU CONSTANTLY DISTURBING ME?! DON'T YOU SEE ME READING THE NEWSPAPER?!!" The old man just remained silent until his son was done yelling.

When his son was done, the old man got up and went indoors. A few minutes later, the old man comes back holding a diary in his hand. He walks upto his son and hands him the diary, and opens it to a particular page. The young man, confused, read.

It was of an incident that had occurred in the same backyard, several years ago (over 25 years ago). It was about a little boy and his father, who were in the backyard, enjoying a sunny day. A bird lands in their backyard. And the little boy asks his father, "Daddy, what bird is this?" His father hugs him and answers "Son, it's a sparrow." The little boy asks his father the same question several times over and over and over again. And everytime his father answers him, with a big smile and a hug.

Upon reading this, the young man's heart swelled with emotion. Tears filled his eyes. He closed the diary, stood up and hugged his father with tears pouring down his cheeks and said, "I'm sorry, Daddy."

This beautiful story was narrated after the news clipping that was read out of one of India's leading newspapers, about how the number of old age homes in India have shot up in the past couple of years. And the Indian government has passed a new law to prevent parents from being abandoned in their greatest time of need. The law is concerning the necessity that parents be funded by the children, even if they were being placed in old age homes. The news reporter went to add that there is another law that is being broken which is more valuable than any financial support. It is the law of the emotional relationship between a parent and a child. However, no government or law enforcing authority can enforce this law upon any individual. No court can grant justice to any parent in this regard.

What your parents have done for you, you can never repay. But it is our duty and our responsibility to try our best!

Me Blabbing

2009-07-03T00:59:00.005+04:00

There comes a time in every man's life when he learns new things, not from books, or not from the words of a wise one, but from his own life experiences. Those are the real lessons of life. The ones that will stick, not only the concept and the idea, but also the details of its purpose and importance.

Of course, there are always those dim-wits who never learn. They may have fallen into the same pit over and over, a dozen times, yet they fall into it again and again.

But the vast majority are the kind who would never forget these valuable life lessons when they were taught through personal experiences. It serves as a true wake up call for them. One they cannot resist answering.

There are still those who are exhausted from the trials. Feeling like a broken arrow, forgotten on a tree top. Scarred for life. These wounds that heal with a scar, leave no place for a clean slate to start over. You simply move on with a limp. Trademarked and clearly distinguishable. Standing out from te crowd. Yet, desperately trying to fit in. Fighting nature, to blend in with nature. The most natural way, meant for survival.

When its all done, and the tears have dried.. you find yourself wanting to move forward, leave everything behind, and start over (on as clean a slate as one can manage). Nothing of the past will matter anymore. Focus will change to the present and the nearest future. That will pull you through. Help you emerge from your ashes. Like the phoenix. A fresh start, with a new beginning and a re-written end. An entirely new journey. The difference this time being.. that you have already tread upon some of those paths. You know your way around a little better this time. You may reach your short set goals faster this time.

The above matter need not necessarily make any sense..

Time to think...

2009-04-01T11:03:00.000+04:00

Something interesting I read on Jen's blog...

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways , but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, 'I love you' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

The Big Bad Wolves

2009-03-09T08:34:00.004+04:00

As I sit here in front of my PC sipping my tea and typing, I know in the back of my head that a big bad wolf is out there claiming another victim.

Right now as I type or as you read, I can tell you for a fact that another life fell victim to AIDS. Be it an innocent 9 year old girl who got raped and her bare bruised body strewn across a baren land. Or be it another helpless single mother of 5, now earning as a sex worker to feed those starving mouths.

The very same minute another has been diagnosed as diabetic, or hyperlipidemic or hypertensive. Or has just suffered a massive heart attack or MI. At least one man has lost his life to one of these fatal and dreadfully common diseases. And his family now mourns his death.

In another part of the world, women and children are dying as victims of war. Not because they wanted to fight or wanted to be heroes. But because war found them. Because inhumane war and war crimes spare noone. Be it man, woman or elderly. Be it a mother, child or an infant.

Another teenager has been dragged into the depths of the world of drugs and all that comes with it. Little does he know what lies at the end of the 'rainbow'. How many lives have we seen destroyed in the hands of drugs?

The world has become a monstorous land. Looking into the horizon I see a bleak future. Hopeless for a better tomorrow. Hopeless for a better generation to take over.

The big bad wolves continue their hunt... claiming more victims everyday...

Humanity before War

2009-01-14T12:15:00.005+04:00

“On December 27th, Israel begins assault on Gaza, code-named "Operation Cast Lead", by launching air raids that kill more than 225 Palestinians.
One Israeli is killed and six others wounded in missile attacks by Palestinian fighters.”
To all those who think it was only fair of Israel to defend themselves - they took the life over 225 Palestinians for the life of one Israeli. As much as I believe every life on this planet is precious. Every single one.

Analysing Israeli soldiers skill in target selection,
“On January 3rd, as Israel begins its ground offensive in Gaza, at least 11 Palestinians, including one child, are killed after Israeli forces strike a mosque in the town of Beit Lahiya.On January 4th, an Israeli air strike hits two ambulances in Gaza, killing four paramedics.On January 6th, an Israeli strike on a UN school in the northern town of Jabaliya kills 43 Palestinians and injures at least 100 who had taken refuge inside the school. Israeli strikes hit two other schools, killing two in the southern town of Khan Younis and three in the Shati refugee camp in Gaza City.On January 8th, the UN's refugee organisation in Gaza suspends all aid deliveries after an Israeli tank attacks a UN convoy, killing one Palestinian driver and injuring two other people.”
What kind of heart and soul would one have to possess to target places like these? Are the Israeli troops actually aiming at destroying the so-called 'terrorist' activities or the innocent lives of women and children and refugees?

As per the latest figures,
“Israel says 10 Israeli soldiers and three civilians hit by Hamas rockets have been killed so far in the campaign…”
“Around 970 Palestinians have been killed, including some 400 women and children, and 4,300 have been wounded.”
The numbers say it all.Is this a war against terrorism for real or is it plain "genocide" as Mr Miguel d'Escoto out it?

Not only has Israel enetered a 'new' phase of their offensive, but they have moved onto to using more creative weapons.
“Israel is accused of firing white phosporous bombs on densely-populated Gaza in violation of international law.”

Where is all this headed? Nowhere but the slaughter of hundreds and thousands of lives. Psychological and physical trauma to thousands of women and children. Destruction of thousands of homes and property. May Allah bring an end to all this destruction and inhumane behaviour. May Allah give strength and hope to the suffering people.

Some people share what they went through during this hell of a chaos..(video available on Al-Jazeera):

- A Palestinian woman seriously injured, lying on a hospital bed recollects - "The tanks started bombarding us. I hugged my son. He was 2 and a half years old. He died in my arms. He was my only son. I had him after 21 years of marriage."

- A 5 year old boy tells us his story - "I saw soldier near the store. Then I could not see my mom. I was hit by a bullet in my arm. Then a bullet hit me in my back and came out from my stomach (he says pointing to his abdomen)"

- A very upset father - "My 3 daughters went out with their grandmother. Suddenly the Israeli forces opened fire on them from a very close distance. My eldest daughter was 8 years old. She was hit by 17 bullets. They ripped apart her chest. My other daughter was 2 years old. She was hit by 12 bullets. Both of them died.”

Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen - KNM

2008-12-10T15:33:00.006+04:00

The Islahi Movement of Kerala is a reformist organization and movement of Muslims in Kerala with the goals of "fighting" prejudice, including anti-Hinduism, priesthood dependency, and polytheism, in essence attempting to remove the influence of Hinduism and non-Islamic native cultures.

The Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM) was formed on 20 April 1950 in Kerala, south India, under the leadership of the scholars of the Islahi Movement in Kerala. Members of the organization call themselves Salafis. Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema (KJU), a body also composed of scholars, was established in 1924, and is still actively functioning. KNM was formed as a common platform for the tens of hundreds of common Islahi. K. M. Maulavi was the first president of KNM. The organization underwent a split about 2 or 3 years ago, with a splinter being formed under Hussain Madavoor, formed new group known as KNM (madavoor).The main reason for split is generation gap between ISM(youth) and KNM . the youth leader Dr:Hussain Madavoor understand that, the religion should interfear in social and plitical activities and introduce islam in new age and style. but the old KNM Scholars oppose these idea, because they are thinking ,no new style for da'wa and we should follow the old scholars and the way of salafi's.

Islam had reached Kerala during the period of Muhammad itself. Arabian traders who visited Kerala spread it, and they maintained a healthy relationship with the local people. In the 19th and early 20th centuries the Muslims in Kerala by large were of namesakes, lacking awareness of Islamic principles. They deviated from the path of Tawheed, the essence of Islamic faith. Muslim community was dominated by those who promoted Bid'ah. There was no formalized religious education systems existed. Qur'an was not taught, and its recitation was considered only for prosperity or curing diseases. Women were discouraged from acquiring any formal education.

The Islahi movement has created an organizational setup in Kerala in 1922 with the formation of ‘Muslim Aikya Sangham’. But it was in 1924, following the establishment of KJU, that the Islahi Movement acquired an organizational setup and began functioning systematically in Kerala.

Islahi scholars were also known leaders of freedom struggle, determined to drive out the foreign rulers from India, besides attempting spiritual and social rejuvenation of the Muslim community. Sanaulla Makthi Thangal, K. M. Jamaluddin Moulavi, Chalilakath Kunhahammed Haji, and Vakkom Abdul Qadar Moulavi were some of the scholars who have worked towards this goal. Leaders like Mohammed Abdul Rahman Sahib, E. K. Moidu Moulavi and K. M. Seethi Sahib upheld true Islamic spirit and prompted every individual of the society to do their duty to their homeland by participating in the Indian freedom struggle movement.

Followers of Islahi movement call themselves ‘mujahids’. The term mujahid means 'one who strives for a noble cause.' The Islahi Movement in Kerala is against terrorism in all its forms.

Islahi scholars had initially identified that one of the basic requirements of the Muslim community during those days was educational reform, and they set up an Education Board to work towards this goal. Under this board, Madrasas, or religious schools, were started in various parts of the state in a meticulous way with modern amenities.

It is an observation that the inspiration behind the establishment of major educational institutions in Kerala including a number of Arabic colleges, arts and science colleges, technical institutes, and schools was actually the activities if the Islahi movement.

The initiation of delivering Juma Khutuba in local language, Malayalam, was another step taken by the movement. It encouraged women’s education and their attendance in mosques, published Qur’an translations and religious books in Malayalam, and started the centralized distribution of Zakat fund to the poor and needy.

They have established orphanages in various parts of the state, and conducted campaigns against dowry, and other social evils. Through their books, magazines, and public speeches, the Islahi movement asked the Muslim public to distance themselves from Bida’a, to stick to the principles of Islam, and to follow ‘Sunnah’. Establishment of 'Qur'an Learning Schools (QLS)' in almost every part of north and central Kerala was considered to be a major activity carried out by the movement.

There are active Indian Islahi Centers in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Recently Indian Islahi Centers have been setup in other cities in India, like Delhi,Bangalore and Chennai.

Reference:
Islahi Movement in Kerala
Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM)

Obama - 'The Change'?

2008-11-06T11:30:00.002+04:00

And so Obama earns his 'throne'. Congrats to him. Not to mention I always favoured him over McCain from the very start.
However, the true challenge will be from here forth. To live upto the expectations he built. To keep the promises he made. And be the man he displayed himself to be.

What a bummer it would be if not...

I also heard one particular news reporter talking about how there was word going round that it would also be a challenge for him to 'stay alive' through the length of his term. He hasnt even settled in yet, and there are rumors of assassination going round? :o

Anyhoo, there is nothing that reporters will let slip past if there is a remote chance of making news of it - true or not - either way.

GoodLuck Obama. I sincerely hope you will be 'The Change' everyone has been waiting for. :)

Being Grateful

2008-10-23T15:35:00.002+04:00

Today at the hospital we had a patient who presented with dizziness, headache, vomiting and abdominal pain. Clinical examination did not reveal any significant findings. However, a couple more minutes of conversation with him led to a most likely diagnosis.
The 19 year old was working at a construction site. He had come here from his country only 1 month ago. He had come here with high hopes for his future and his family's future. He had taken loans from friends and relatives to get here. Now he has a fine job! Working under the sun for 8 hours a day. A detailed enquiry into his diet revealed the most unhealthy eating habit ever. He has biscuits for breakfast (thats around 6 am) and rice for lunch at 12 pm and the next meal is biscuits again at 6 am the next morning. He has 2 meals a day, one of which comprises of "biscuits"! And there is absolutely no dinner! When asked why it is so, his answer was simply - "That's all the company provides us with". He is being paid a measly salary which is barely enough for him to send home. So he cannot afford to buy any food himself. He lives in a labor camp with millions of other labor workers. They are like around 10 men stuffed into a little room with as many bunkbeds as they can squeeze into it.
This meal is simply not adequate for a man who does laborious work under the sun everyday for 8 hours. In fact, any human being even if he were leading a relatively sedentary lifestyle needs 3 regular meals a day.
This man misses home and family, does not get enough to eat everyday, and is unhappy with his life, his work, and his pay. He cannot leave and go back home because it has been only one month since he has come, he has a huge amount of debt to pay off when he gets back and he has a family - his mom and dad - who have built high hopes for their son, and who depend on him for survival. How can he break their hearts?
It would only be surprising if a man in a mental state such as his be fit and healthy.
After hearing about his situation, I felt devastated. And deeply sorry for him. It also made me realize how blessed I am for having 3 meals a day on my table. I feel blessed to be able to live with my family.

Alhamdulillah! I am very grateful to Allah for everything He has given me, for everything He has blessed me with. La Howla Wa La Quwwatha Billah (There is no Power and no Strength except with Allah)

And I pray that Allah gives us all the provision to ensure that we have food on our tables at least 3 times a day. I pray that Allah does not put us in a postion where we cannot afford food to survive. I pray that Allah keeps us close to and dear to our family, especially our parents. I pray that Allah eases our difficulties. I pray that Allah prevent us from falling into such disturbing and difficult places as this man. And I pray that Allah makes this mans' life better and more satisfying and so for anyone else in a position as his.
Ameen.

So Close Yet So Far

2008-10-17T01:17:00.000+04:00

Man has conquered distance like never before. The world has become a smaller place. Cell phones, chatrooms, video conferences and so on, have made communication over long distance as easy as visiting your next door neighbor. To have a conversation with a friend or relative half way across the globe is not an issue anymore.
There was a time though when communication was very difficult. Even over shorter distances. Even an urgent message would travel only as fast as the fastest horse or pigeon could. Or feet even. To have a conversation in person with a loved one or anyone for that matter, meant having to spend days of travel on horseback. Distances mattered and were of concern to many.
However, comparing the difference in relationships back in those days and as it is today – it is more than obvious where we stand. Inspite of the difficulties people faced back then, there was more genuine love and humanity then than there will ever be today. We are now living in an era where one has to watch out for betrayal and deceit coming even from within the family.
The big question is ‘Why’. Why is it that when technology has brought people closer together, it has corrupted their hearts?

.... will complete this when I get the time!

Remembering Death

2008-10-12T14:09:00.002+04:00

Prior to accepting Islam, many things were happening in my life prompting me to change my ways. One such thing was a dream I had – well it was more like a nightmare actually. It started with my bed being placed in the middle of an abandoned warehouse. As I looked around, I suddenly became aware of two huge, robed figures standing at the foot of my bed. They took me by the hand and all of sudden we were at the base of a mountain. As we climbed they did not speak, just kept walking with quick, sure steps. When we reached the summit, they both pointed for me to look over the edge. As 1 did, a wave of scorching-hot air blasted me in the face. Beneath me was a sea of fire and blood. People, naked and piled on top of each other, were screaming in agony. They were imploring me to pull them out of the sea. But I was transfixed. I could do nothing but stand in horror at what I was seeing and hearing. When I awoke, I was shaken and utterly terrified. The only thought on my mind was I did not want to end up there.

Alhamdulillah, Allah guided me to Islam and the Sunnah of His Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam. Unfortunately, I have forgotten the lesson of that dream, which was not dying in a state displeasing to Allah. Life and death belong to Allah alone. But if we look at our actions and how we spend our time, it seems that we think that we own both. We plan out our days, weeks and months, as if we were given guarantees that any of these days, weeks or months will come. We plan for life, while we do not plan for death. We live as if we would live in this world forever. We forget that this life is fleeting and that we all have an appointment with death that must be kept. It is a promise from Allah, subhanahu wataala, and whatever Allah promises must come to pass.

"Every soul shall taste death, and only on the Day of Judgment will you be given what you earned. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of deception." Holy Qur'an (3:187)

He, subhanahu wata'ala, says, "Every soul shall taste death, and only on the Day of Judgment will you be given what you earned. So, he who is prevented from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained his desire. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of deception ."[3:187] Death brings with it the true reality of our situations. About his the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said, "When one of you dies, he is shown his place (in the Hereafter) morning and evening. If he is from the people of Heaven, then he is among the people of Heaven. And if he is from the people of Hell, then he is among the people of Hell. And it will be said to him, 'this is your place until Allah resurrects you on the Day of Judgment." (Muslim). Knowing this, arc we prepared to meet the Angel of Death?

If we knew we only had today to live, how would we live it? What would we do with our day? Are there bridges that need mending? Do we have grudges or misunderstandings that need to be set aright? Would we spend it in front of the television or in reading the book of Allah? Would we spend our final moments chasing down this worldly life or seeking the next life? Would we repent to our Lord? Would we be careful with every word, every deed, every glance and every thought? Would we safeguard our salah? Would we spend it in fasting and in giving charity? Would we spend our day with our families and our children? Would we tell them how much we love and appreciate them? Would we cry out of fear for what is about to befall us? If so, then why don't we do so every day? Every day is some-body's last day and today might be ours.

When death was approaching Umar after he had been stabbed, Abdullah ibn Abbas said to him, "O Commander of the Faithful! You accepted Islam when others disbelieved; you struggled along with the Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, when others deserted him; the Prophet, sallallahu alavhe wa sallam, died while he was pleased with you; no two people have disagreed on you and you are about to die a martyr." Umar replied, "The flattered is the one whom you flatter. By Allah, if I had what ever the sun rose upon I would give it away in order to protect myself from what is about to rise [upon me]."(TanbeehulGhafileen).

Umar was more pleasing in the sight of Allah than any of us can ever hope to be. Yet, he was fearful of what death brought. We, on the other hand, are secure in our false hopes and delusions. As we heedlessly zip though our days, we say, tomorrow, tomorrow. Unfortunately for most of us tomorrow never comes. So let us strive to do our best today. Let us resolve to remember death. When we purchase a new outfit, let us remember the burial shroud that will serve as our final outfit. When we arc outfitting our new homes and domiciles, let us remember the smallness of the grave. Let us remember to ask ourselves, will our deeds make it a place of rest or a place of torment?

Death, as the Prophet, sallallahu alayhewa sallam, said is the robber of desires. By remembering death, the servants of Allah purify themselves and their actions. They acknowledge their feebleness and helplessness before the Lord of the Worlds and walk through this life with caution and hope. We should live as the companions of the Messenger o f Allah, sallallahu alavhe wa sallam, lived. If they lived to pray the Fajr, they did not hope to see the Isha; and if they made the Isha, they did not hope to see the Fajr. Let us not ever forget that this moment could be our last, and not put off until tomorrow what can, and should be done today.

- Sumayyah Bint Joan

Niche of Truth - Remembering Death

Looking Back...

2008-10-10T16:30:00.002+04:00

"Hijabists"

2008-07-28T14:13:00.003+04:00

There is a short but adequate list of certain groups of people who are hatable. Off the top of my head racists, sexists and the like. So why are they so easily put into a group where people can openly declare their hatred towards an entire group of people? It obviously has to do with a bit of stereotyping, disregard, discrimination and hostile behaviour.

It has been a while since I've noticed the very same attitude and behaviour towards, what some people like to label, "Hijabis". To begin with, its not even a proper terminology. It was coined by 'I dont know who' simply for the convinience of those people whom I will from hereforth refer to as "Hijabists"! I mean do you call a person wearing a dress, a dressi? Or someone wearing a scarf, a scarfi?Or a hatti? Then why must someone wearing a Hijab be reffered to as a Hijabi?

The term Hijab by itself means 'to cover' or 'to veil' or 'to protect/shelter'. It is also used to refer to the clothing that women use to cover themselves (their head). Although the term Hijab has a much vaster meaning than that. I shall do a write up on that inshaAllah.

Since the younger generation these days are fans of creating their vocabulary, and consider it 'cool' I'll skip to the real point.

There is a general (mis)understanding that a Hijab is like a magic cloak of some sort. Perhaps they believe its a piece of clothing for God Himself? Whatever the reason, people (including some Muslims) expect a woman in Hijab to be as perfect as an angel. There ought to be a transformation in them from whatever they were like into a new and improved being that is incapable of sin. For this reason, any behaviour on the part of a "Hijabi" that is flawed in any way is looked upon with disgust. The saying is "She's a Hijabi and she does that?!" with mouth wide open. Little do people realize that a women under a headscarf is still herself. She still carries the same personality. She is just like any other human being.

Just like different cultures have different traditional clothing, so do different religions. Making a decision to wear your religious outfit, simply means looking like the religion you belong to. It represents your religion. Wearing it does not by default mean you've taken a secret oath of perfection. You are still the same person and character.

So if you see imperfection or even repulsive behaviour in someone wearing a headscarf, its not something to awe about. They are humans too.

That being said, I must emphasize the fact that being a Muslim (with or without hijab), if you have sincerely accepted Islam, means you have taken an oath to try your best to attain perfection in the eyes of Allah.
I took that oath years before I took up the Hijab. Its a long journey that never ends. And I've only moved inches from the starting line over the years.

This is for all you "Hijabists" out there. We're not evil people.

The Phoenix

2008-07-10T00:14:00.001+04:00

Butterflies seem to be flying again. Flowers blooming again. Birds singing again. And I seem to have developed the urge to write again. Why? I do not know. But I now feel the need to find time in my busy tight schedule to write again. I found an inspiration perhaps? Or inspiration found me? Either way, for better or for worse - I am going to start writing again. I pray I have not lost my touch. Hopefully, I will pick up again inshaAllah.

So much has happened since. So much has changed since. I feel different. I have changed too, I suppose.

An attempt to immerse myself in a hobby that used to bring me joy and peace. A world and space of my own.
:)

Peek-A-Boo

2007-03-20T13:11:00.000+04:00

So many months of no blogging, and I miss it. Been quite busy this year. And I have no clue what to write about at the moment. Just wanted to add a post! I'll think of something. But that'll have to be later.

Ma'assalama.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5.....

2006-07-25T17:18:00.000+04:00

Man is never satisfied. He is forever complaining. Nothing ever satisfies him.

The stress during the exams was the killer type. The kind that doesnt allow you to sleep well, eat well nor be well. Disrupts your entire life, turns it upside down. And when it leaves, it leaves you in chaos - leaves you to pick up the fallen pieces and put them back together by yourself.

However, once its all done and you settle back down again.. you realize that your life is so empty with so much extra time at your hands. Time is at a stand still and no matter how many tasks you perform in a day, you still have nothing to do.

I have a list of objectives. But its hard to place them into a timetable, with so much time. I still manage to find large gaps filled with nothingness.

InshaAllah I shall figure out the best way to make the best use of the free time that I have at my hands right now. May Allah help me achieve this goal and make my life more purposeful.

Man is also the most ungrateful. He is never thankful for the blessings that he is given or bestowed with. Its shameful, yet a quality that describes every human being.

Alhamdulillah, we have a home with a roof over our heads to protect us from the rain and sun and snow. Alhamdulillah, we have at least 3 meals a day to keep ourselves alive. Alhamdulillah, we have eyes that allow us to see the beauty and color filled world around us. Alhamdulillah.

Exams

2006-07-13T14:01:00.000+04:00

Yes, I'm trying to prepare for my exams. Not going to get into that detail.

Not been able to make a good post.

This was a nice read. God's Love

Go ahead and have a look.

Just to add, that I keep adding links on the right column there -->

You might wanna check it out now and then.

Thats about it for now. Perhaps after two weeks, I might come up with something to post. InshaAllah.

Intoxication

2006-07-06T15:42:00.000+04:00

Refering to toxins of all kinds and sorts.

I'm going to start with stating the example of drug-abuse (crack/pot). The short-term effect of these drugs is anything but intoxicating. It is probably the best known escape from all the troubles in your life and the world. The euphoria and the light-headed feeling is to crave for - isnt it? However, it is the long-term use of it that is not just "harmful" rather it is "fatal". Not only does it kill you but gets you addicted so that you actually end up poisoning yourself. A devil by itself.

That would be intoxication of the physical body. My main focus is intoxication of the mind.

I once read an article on advertising skills and techniques. The use of a certain combination of colors has a special effect on the human mind. Also, the manner in which the advertisments are displayed make a difference. There was one example of how some brands flashed their advertisments during movie intervals, or between tv programs. Flashing these ads intermitently during shows, embeds it into your subconscious mind. And when you go shopping, your head automatically fancies the advertized brand over the one you previously used. Its inside your head, without your knowledge. Kids being the best victims. Do you find your child attracted to a certain brand because of advertisement? Intoxication? I believe so!

The above example of advertising was to show the possibility for intoxication of the mind. And the fact that some people do actually know about it, and use it to their advantage.

Moving on to the subject of my interest... Music. One that I have recently classified under toxins to the mind. One that I believe does in fact, unknowingly intoxicate us.

Certain music, is soothing to the mind. Known to cure and relieve tension and anxiety. How many of you know how long that effect lasts? It is actually a very short-lived effect. In some articles I read 15 minutes. Some others a few hours. Just like the effect of drugs. As long you keep taking the drugs, the effect is pleasing. As long you keep the music running, its soothing. But what are the long-term effects?

Music is addictive! This is a fact I derived from personal experience, and experiences of people I know. A need to listen to a certain song, the urge to have music running. Your life feeling empty without music. All signs of addiction. Time and again, there have been claims of the positive effects of music. How many of you have read up the negative effects of music? Just like music is known to soothe and calm some people, it is known to instill suicidal and homicidal tendencies is others. It is known to build criminals out of many. It is known to build sexually abusive tendencies in teens.

How many times have you found yourself humming to a catchy tune when you're studying or trying to concentrate? When you're waiting your turn at a dentist's clinic or worse - when you're praying? How many times have you tried really hard to get the tune out of your head so you can continue studying or concentrate on your prayer? Why are you not able to get rid of it? Why does it go round and round in your head? Intoxicating? I believe so.

I have no scientific proof or evidence to claim the validity of this belief. It is based on my observation and understanding.

The thoughts were provoked after my investigation into Islam's stance on the permissibility of Music. Interesting how many like to end by concluding "It is a controversial topic". Not because they truly mean it, but because of their love and passion for Music. Is it not odd, that music is so hard and difficult to give up? I see it as a sign of addiction again.

Its JPN, not JAP!! Why?!

2006-06-18T19:04:00.000+04:00

I just newly discovered this myself (during one of the Japan matches). I decided to look up the dictionary myself. And here is what I found.

Jap
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a person of Japanese birth or descent.
n. Offensive Slang
A Jewish-American girl or woman regarded as being pampered or overindulged.

I was actually quite surprised at what I found. Although, I dont recall having had to use "Jap", under normal circumstances, I would have simply considered it short for Japan, or Japanese even. Not anymore, I guess. There might actually be a chance that I get beaten up for using the term "Jap". Also, I found that it is actually equated to racial discrimination just as the term "Nigger" is considered.

Jap, n was first used in 1860 to refer to members of the Japanese embassy in the United States. It was later popularized during World War II to describe those of Japanese/Asian descent, and used as a disparaging term to describe Japanese people.

At the time, the word "Jap" was commonplace - and it wasn't a term of endearment. One online encyclopedia defines the word this way: "Jap is a slang term with a strongly negative connotation, a term used and proliferated by the US government during WWII to express hostility."

"Jap" at its simplest is just an abbreviation of "Japan" or "Japanese." It was first used by Westerners a few years after Commodore Matthew C. Perry forced Japan open to international trade at gunpoint 150 years ago. In 1860, when "Jap" was first used in America to describe the samurai and servants who were sent from Japan as part of the first U.S. diplomatic mission, the term was used merely for its brevity and convenience. There was no hatred or distrust for Japanese at the time.

Japanese themselves bore the brunt of blunt racism during the "Yellow Peril" scare of the early 1900s, with alien land laws preventing them from owning property, and attacks by white laborers. By the time Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, the term "Jap" carried a certain kind of venom in much of America.

During the war, "Jap" was painted with the blood of brutality - unfortunately committed by the Japanese themselves - and became an easy way to vent hate and anger at both Japanese and the 120,000 Japanese Americans who were sent to internment camps.

Many Americans find the term extremely offensive and racist, but a Japanese living in Japan would have trouble understanding their strong reactions, as the term would not be racist to him. Many non-Americans use the term as a natural abbreviation of the word "Japanese".

Oddly, one of the first hits on Google for "Jap" is "Jap.com" a Japanese run site, which would seem to indicate that at least some of the Japanese people do not consider the term perjorative.

Perhaps, it was due to the ignorance of this past, or because some of the Japanese themselves havent shown enough concern about this matter, that people are not as aware of this issue at hand.

Just thought that it would be a piece of useful information to share, in case you end up in such a situation.

Extracts from wikipedia & http://www.jref.com/nikkeiview/jap.shtml

The World Cup Syndrome

2006-06-12T15:11:00.000+04:00

Some like to call it "The World Cup Fever" and some call it "The World Cup Mania". And whatever else you like to call it, it all boils down to the same thing.

It involves a wide range of symtpoms, varying from person to person, from time to time, from game to game and from country to country.

The major factor in play here is a soccer ball (pic below).

The ball is kicked around a field, the details of which are shown in the picture below.

The game is played every four years, and this year is currently being played in Germany, in the following cities - Berlin, Hamburg, Hannover, Gelsenkirchen, Dortmund, Leipzig, Koln (Cologne), Frankfurt, Kaiserslautern, Nuremberg, Stuttgart and Munich.

There are 32 countries taking part this year - Angola, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ivory Coast, Croatia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, England, France, Germany, Ghana, Iran, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Netherlands, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Serbia and Montenegro, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Ukraine and United States of America.

Each game is between two teams, each consisting of eleven players (thats 22 players and a referee on the field at a time. The aim of the game is to get the ball into the opponent's goal, and prevent it from going into your own. All this fuss and hassle to win the "Fifa World Cup".

The World Cup Syndrome however, does not affect the players but rather the audience, who watch the matches. The event lasts for a whole month, and the same for the syndrome. For some the syndrome may last for over a month, sorta like a hangover.

The symptoms, as I mentioned vary from person to person. The term 'fever' is usually a misnomer, because rarely does anyone actually experience a rise in temperature. The most common symtpom is tachycardia and palpitations (an increase in heart rate). Sweating is a common phenomenon. There are also a wide range of mental symptoms including euphoria, depression, frustration, anger and sudden mood swings. The mental symptoms may last even after the one month long games are over. That 'hangover' usually comprises of either euphoria and light-headedness, or depression and frustration. Insomnia is another commonly observed symptom, sometimes due to nightmares and sometimes of unknown cause. Some patients were known to complain of incoherent speech, inability to concentrate, and lack of performance at work place. Rarely, there are patients who complain of an exacerbation in their allergies.

Some patients have been found to have an increased tendency to lie, act and exaggerate. Most common lies being, back ache or pain in the back and the patient usually enters the clinic with an exaggerated stoop, and hand on his back, claiming that he is unable to stand up straight and perform well at work. There is always the 'fall' excuse. Falling from stairs, from table tops, from side-walks, from work places, construction sites, etc is very common. These patients usually enter the clinic limping or accompanied by two other partners in crime.

Studies show that this one month shows an increase in the number of patients at hospitals, a majority of whom approach the doctor for a sick leave from work for a few days. The same patients are seen visiting another doctor a few days later. Requests for leave at work shoots to a maximum. In some cases, the boss himself/herself is on leave as well. Governments suffer great losses during this one month period.

After the month period, there has been found to be an increase in the number of patients visiting the ophthalmologist. All complaining of increased tearing, pain in the eye, and/or decreased or blurred vision.

No treatment has yet been found for this syndrome. However, symptomatic treamnet can be provided. Treatement of each symptom, one by one.

I have recently discovered that I suffer from a mild form of this disease. Get yourself checked right away!

P.S. Live Fifa score updates --> http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/
Live updated commentry Blog --> http://www.worldcupblog.org

Pretty Pink Glasses

2006-05-02T20:19:00.000+04:00

Here's a story I remembered from my school days. Its about two men at a hospital. Their beds were beside each other. Which is why they have a story together.

Both the men were bed-ridden. However, one of them had the advantage of having his bed by the window, so that he could have a view of world outside the dreaded hospital walls. The other man, however did not enjoy this luxury. And so the man with his bed by the window, used to narrate what he could see in order to help his new found friend paint a picture of the beauty outside - in his head.

He used to talk about the beauty of the blue sky, the birds flying by every now and then, and most of all the beauty of the stream that ran by past the hospital premises. Everyday, he would repeat what he could see, making it sound ever more beautiful each time he spoke of it.

Several days passed, and the two men became really good friends. And then there came the day when the man by the window died and his bed was carried away. The other man was saddened and dis-heartened by this event. A few days later he asked one of the nurses to allow his bed to be moved closer to the window, so that he could get a look at the scenery his friend had painted for him in his head.

The nurse agreed. With all excitement he propped up and peered out the window. To his dismay, all he could see was an old brick wall. He called the nurse, and asked when and why the brick wall was built there. She said, the wall has always been there. The man was confused. So he told the nurse about how his friend had seen the sky, a stream and the birds. She smiled and told him that his friend had been blind from the very start!

Its the choice of the spectator to see what he wishes to see. You choose your own colors. You choose the colors that you view the world with. Whether it be 'Black and White' or whether it be 'PINK'!!

Thinking Too Hard

2006-05-01T19:45:00.000+04:00

Life has strange ways. This usually goes without saying. But I simply can't stress that enough.

Every day of our life, we go about our usual chores. The same routine sometimes. A few changes here and there sometimes. And in this manner days go by, weeks go by, months go by and then you find several years going by.

So many hours, so many minutes, so many seconds. All skipping along serving no purpose, leaving no meaning and not having affected anyone or anything in anyway.

Yet, in comparison to all those millions of hours that I find speeding past me, I find myself thinking of the few seconds that have meant the most, those which have left a lasting impact and those which had a purpose for existing.

It may have been the few seconds I was waiting for the elevator. Or waiting inside the elevator. Or waiting for the bus. Sometimes, the few seconds before I fall asleep. The few moments I spend at the window, looking down at the world.

Inspite of the fact, that it was only a few seconds, in comparison to the number of hours I've lived, those seconds have been more worthwhile than any number of hours I've spent. Some very important facts and observations dawn on me during these idle moments in life. They may seem idle for an on-looker at least. However, in those few seconds I manage to be able to skim through my entire life, or life events and analyze them - if not each one by one, at least in general.

I realize what I've achieved so far, and what I haven't. How much meaning my life has, and how much it doesn't. What I've lived for so far, and what I haven't. What I should have been doing and what I shouldn't. In what way certain things have influenced me, and in what way they havent. They way life is, and the way it should have been. And several of other things.

And the seconds after that, when I snap out of it (or when I'm forced to snap out of it) I try my best to make a change in the way I best can. I try my best to make a difference based on what just hit me.

I read this today, on my friends laptop :D ....
It is narrated by Abu Hurairah: Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said: "Allah said, 'The son of Adam annoys Me for he abuses Ad-Dahr (Time) though I am Ad-Dahr (Time); in My Hands are all things, and I cause the revolution of day and night." ( Sahih Bukhari)

Japan - Not Muslim Friendly!

2006-04-22T18:58:00.000+04:00

Apparently, Islam in Japan is a new concept and pretty recent compared to most other countries in the world. Introduced in Japan around 1870. However, actual Muslim communities began to exist due to migration of refugees from Uzbekistan, Kazakhastan, Kirghistan, etc during the World War 1. So it was actually after this period that small Muslim population began existing in Japan. This was when the first mosques were built (like around late 1930s).

However, in building these mosques there wasnt much enthusiasm from the Japanese Muslims. In fact, none of the Japanese Muslims took up the role of imam in these mosques.

During World War 2, there were Islamic Centers set up which actually played an active role in publishing of several Islamic books. However, neither were these centers run by Muslim, nor was their purpose to propogate Islam. It was merely to learn about the Islamic population they would deal with during war conquers. (mostly for military people)

The World War ended, and these centers disappeared.

The next time Japan heard about Islam, was during a period when there was a lot of fuss about oil in the Middle East! All the picturizations and media coverage did some help, but that died down too.

Also, I just read that japanese used to have a veiw that Islam was a 'weird religion for the under-developed world'. And in an interview, a famous Japanese writer said the followers of Islam 'worship the sun'.

First Japanese Muslim Organization came into being only by 1950s.

A random (not so accurate) figure of the Muslim population in Japan, is about a thousand. However, taking into account 'only' the practicing Muslims would bring it down to a few hundred.

Nearly 80% of Japanese population is said to be Buddhist. Only around 0.8% Christians. However, some resources say that only 1 out of every 4 people actually believe in any religion at all. Which brings the atheist population to nearly 85%. This in itself makes dawa'ah hard.

Communication is also a major barrier for Islamic Dawa'ah in Japan. Japanese being not one of the common languages opted for in the rest of the world.

Another problem, is their lifestyle. The bowing as a part of showing respect, and the fact that they like to have collective events most of the time. It makes it hard to break ties with them, without angering them. (some of them get offended very easy).

Bringing up children in an environment where they are not in the least bit exposed to what a Muslim's life is like. Not being able to witness any Islamic way of living. Twists the kids from the very start!

Also, there is a lack of availability of dawa'ah material, or any material for that factor on basic Islamic teachings. Especially, those with japanese translations.

Is it a surprise that Dajjal is to rise from the far east? We haven't managed to touch that end of the world effectively!!

Sharjah Book Fair

2006-04-10T16:51:00.000+04:00

So this weekend turned out busier than my weekdays. Me along with two of my friends and a couple of other colleages volunteered to help at the Used Book Fair at Qanat-al-Qasba in Sharjah to help raise funds for charity for suffering children.

The stall we were at was basically shared between our college (Gulf Medical College Ajman) and Preston University.

The evening shift was nice and pretty much fun. The fact that it wasnt as hot, and there were more people, which kept us busy. The kids there were a lot of fun too. The mango milkshake I had at the cafe in front of our stall was too good as well. Compliments to wahdamuslima's mom for inviting us. Not to mention the dinner at Subway later on.

The morning shift was actually no fun at all. It was really really hot and sunny. That equals to a lot of sweat and ickiness by the way. Also, there was hardly any people, which made it pretty much boring as well. Also, our lunch arrived late. That made us bored, hungry and sweaty. Not a very good combination, if you ask me. The fresh orange juice later that day, from the same cafe kinda like made up for all that.

Something I found disturbing, was how interested the little kids were in the Islamic books but having been disappointed because their moms dint approve of them. We found a lot of them like that. Most of the mothers did not want to buy the cute little islamic books for kids, for their children. I cannot think of why not. The oddest one was this 6 year old kid, who came to us on his own to have a look at the books. We had a cute little book named "My Wudu Book" with nice illustrations. We asked him if he knew how to make wudu. He dint know what 'wudu' meant. That raised the question "Are you muslim?". He says "one minute" and runs to his mom to ask whether he is muslim or not. He ran back to us, and says "Yes I am Muslim". A kid his age ought to know more than just "I am a Muslim". I'm surprised there are parents who dont do this little for their kids. Perhaps its not all that big a deal to many, but he was in an islamic country. How did it happen that he never knew he was muslim?

On another note, while we were on our way to the cafe to have drinks, wahdamuslima came up with the idea that we strike a bargain with the lady outside the cafe (who was giving out the menu and stuff). She told her "We'll have drinks at your cafe if you'll read this" (or something like that) and handed her a bunch of duas for various occassions (which we were giving out to people at our stall). And the next day, she said she actually did read it (erm considering she wasnt muslim). So the next day, we gave her another book to read (on Islam) and she said she would. We should go back there sometime to see what she thought of the book.

Oh and on the evening of the second day, we were supposed to come back home with a friend. We were meant to take a cab from where we were to where her car was (she had joined us for shopping and took ride with another friend because she dint wanna drive I think). She pointed to the building near which her car was parked. We decided it was walking distance, and the walk would be nice (by the side of the corniche). And so we were off. When we finally got there, she had second thoughts. Maybe the car isnt actually where she thinks it is. Sure enough we reached the parking lot under the building, and her car wasnt there.I thought it was really funny that someone could forget where they parked their car and just kept laughing and laughing. Took sometime for her to figure out that it was at a similar spot but on the opposite side. Considering we had to walk a lot more to get to the car, we had dinner at this Italian Pizza place. After which we made our way to the other side of the bridge and walked and walked and walked, and yea we did find her car in the end. In the end, turned out it was a good thing for her, because she got to stay overnight with us, considering how late it was we dint wanna make her drive back all the way.

Yup, it was a pretty busy weekend.

New Blog

2006-04-02T18:21:00.000+04:00

So yea I made a new blog for myself. Its a place where I get to be geeky. Where I will dump all the medical or science related stuff.

All you nerds out there.. check it out!!

I'm not quite proud of it enough to show off, because its new and it doesnt have much yet.

InshaAllah, I will try to make myself regular there.

Drowning In Your Own Blood!!

2006-03-31T14:38:00.000+04:00

Its ironic how the very elements which are crucial for life can also kill in the most absurd of ways.

Take any simple element. Water and food for example, you cant live without it, and you cant live with too much of it. Water intoxication and obesity with its complications can be fatal. Glucose, is the basic energy provider to every body cell. Too much of it labels you as diabetic and then you're prone to its complications leading to death.

Dr. Hosseini (Pulmonologist at Iranian Hospital Dubai) was telling us about how you can actually drown in your own blood. This happens when you have bleeding in your lungs, either from the pulmonary vessels or bronchial vessels (the more fatal ones). The situation is compared to drowning because the changes or rather the pathology behind both is pretty much the same.

When you're drowning, you inhale water into your lungs. The water accumulates in your alveoli (tiny air sacs in your lungs). Alveoli is the site at which gas exchange happens, i.e. oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide moves out of the blood. When the alveoli is full of water, this exchange of gas cannot occur. this leads to reduced oxygenation of blood, and hence hypoxia to vital organs such as the brain and heart.

The same thing happens when you bleed into your lungs. The blood fills up and accumulates in the alveoli and prevents gas exchange. This results in hypoxia to vital organs and death of the patient. The interesting point to note here is that the patient did not die of the loss of blood. Rather the death was due to inability for normal respiratory process as a result of blood in the alveoli.

Sad, how your own body can kill you in so many different ways. Saddest is the autoimmune processes meant to defend you. SubhanAllah.

10 years later...

2006-03-23T19:21:00.000+04:00

Have you ever heard about or seen someone grow 10 years older in 10 days? I have neither heard of nor seen something of that sort ever in my entire life. Yet, I feel like it. I feel like I've aged 10 years in the past 10 days or more.

My mom used to tell me about this one category of people. Whether there be some benefit to them or not, they make sure that you are never at rest or peace. They leave you in chaos with a scar that will always be there. I always wondered why they do that. I suppose its the pleasure or satisfaction. Or perhaps its jealousy?

I am reminded of how the British left India when we won our freedom from their hands. Them having to leave us, meant a big loss in several ways. Were they angry? jealous? or simply frustrated? They made sure that they werent leaving us to complete peace and harmony. They caused mishap amongst the different religions in India, who had been living in harmony with one another for several years before British rule even. To date, their plans have been successful. We still have one group of people trying to break down mosques and another group trying to bring down the temples. Are the British happy? Were they satisfied?

Has the prime purpose of the war against Iraq been fulfilled? Was it just to over throw Saddam, or was it to restore peace to the people of Iraq? Saddam was captured, yes. He is still under trial, and justice apparently under way of being served. BUT, has peace been restored? I have no idea, nor can confirm whether or not Bush had an ulterior motive behind the war. And I dont know if he is satisfied with the outcome of the war. However, he or should I say US left it in chaos. I recall several claims that the American Government had made, to make it a better place. But I dont see them put into action. Also, the whole shia-sunni disputes within the country doesnt look like it happened by chance. Who's hand is behind it? I'll leave you to do the thinking...

My motive is not to spread hatred. But just to relate to you how the world is run. My mother told me about those kind of people. And I have personally met such people and witnessed their acts. Just like a lot of others would have. Back then when my mother told me about it, I was just never able to relate the same to such a large scale.

P.S. I have been considering making two more blogs, each serving a different purpose. However, from how busy I have been in the past few weeks makes me wonder if I would be able to keep up with three blogs, when I cant manage one blog alone.

Unique Lecture

2006-02-12T16:01:00.000+04:00

Although today's lecture was meant to be a radiology lecture, the doctor managed to cover much more than just radiology: faith, history, art, psychology, philosophy, physics and ophthalmology.

The physics behind X-rays. Their difference from visible light. X-rays have shorter wavelength and higher frequency as compared to visible light. This gives them more energy, and hence more ability to penetrate through our body. He used the example of trying to hit someone with a ball and bullet.

Faith came into play, when he told us about how you dont really see the lungs on the film, but you know its there when you see a shadow (the proof), just like you dont see God but you believe in him.

History of X-rays, obviously. About Roentgen, and his discovery with the tubes. And how they came to be called Roentgen rays.

Art, when he spoke of picasso and his art. About how its all about using your imagination. He drew a chair on the whiteboard, and said we look at it and we see a 3-D image, whereas it is only a 2-D image. All the work of the mind. Just like that, you have to work your head when you look at the X-ray, to tell what part is anterior and which is posterior.

I dont even remember why he spoke of Ophthalmology though. It had nothing to with the lecture. I remember him mentioning the normal respone to dark rooms. How the pupils dilate and then the cones give up their duty and is taken over by the rods. Because the rods are more sensitive than the cones.

And it went on and on and on... (I dont remember the rest)

Just Another Day...

2006-02-07T19:08:00.000+04:00

Today's ENT tutorial was quite the fun one. I dint fall asleep the whole time (perhaps I did dose off a little bit near the end).

At the start, it was the fact that after ages, we had a doctor who was actually interactive. But it was limited just to the introductory portion of the tutorial. Towards the end, it became one of those boring reading sessions, where you just want the doctor to STOP!

However, what helped keep my attention was his very peculiar way of spelling certain words. It was too hilarious, I dint want to miss it by falling asleep.

For example, he kept saying 'through out'.
"They present with dry through out, fullness of through out...."
And I kept wondering, what does that mean? It took me a while, but I soon realized he was trying to say 'throat'. He just cut it into 'thro' and 'at' which sounded like 'through out'.

The one that cracked me up the most was when he said 'tung you'. This was simply way too much. Apparently, he was trying to say 'tongue'. Again you can see, it was broken down to 'tong' and 'ue'.

And then there was the whole 'region' thing.
"And no matter what the region is.. they just keep doing for every region they can think of.."
Apparently this meant 'reason' and not the actual word 'region'.

I was caught off guard when he said 'piss'.
"You never take out just one piss.. you have to take out the whole piss at a time.."
Yup, piss it was. Stood for 'piece' by the way.

Besides all the hilarious words, which made us burst into laughter and then try to suppress them by coughing and covering our faces... there were the sudden change of topic from tonsillitis to the great mosques of Iran.

Suddenly, during his presentation appears a picture of a Mosque in Iran. He even explained one of them. The picture was of a wall in one of the mosques. There were several arched hollow portions in the wall, all of which were empty. He explained how the mosque was built 50 years ago and there used to be a lot of stuff in those empty spaces, and now he didnt know what happened to them. And then he continues with the rest of the presentation. I dont think any of the pictures had anything to do with the presentation. (I have noticed this to be a persian style of some sort, to have random pictures of stuff - for example, flowers, kittens, babies, mosques, landscapes - in the middle of their presentations)

Also, I recall a point during which the doctor said..
"You probably give him Penicillin or another blah blah medication..."
I simply could not believe he just said 'blah blah'. But he did! Everyone else heard it too. :o

These Persian doctors... some of them are very very weird. *shudder*

Oh my eyes!! My eyes!!

2006-02-01T19:16:00.000+04:00

A common complaint in the Ophthalmology clinic by patient whose job involves long hours of straining on the computer screen.

The complaint is usually watery eye, red eye, pain in the eye or simply itchiness and uncomfortability of the eye.

The reason for this is usually because the person forgets to blink while trying to concentrate on their work. On an average, a normal human blinks 12-15 times a minute.

Some tips if you spend too much time on the PC or TV....

- Every half an hour or so, look away from your screen and at something distant (preferably something out the window)

- Every hour or more, sit back and relax with your eyes closed for a few minutes.

- Make a conscious effort to blink at least 10 times a minute.

- If you have dry eyes, get 'artificial tear' drops.

- If possible try to have the PC at a lower level than your eyes.

- Make sure, there is no glare of any light reflecting off the screen. This adds to the strain.

- If your job involves working on computers for long, avoid extra exposure at home (through computers or televisions)

Something people always forget, is that their eyes need rest just like the rest of their body. Just like long walks hurt your legs, your eyes will hurt if you strain them too much and give them no rest. Its only normal for your eyes to react when they are tired. Take better care of your eyes.

History - The Finest!

2006-01-28T11:43:00.000+04:00

FOR many, history is a boring subject. School teachers in particular struggle to make their lessons interesting for the students and very few working professionals actually take out the time to pick a history book and read.

What they fail to realise is that growth and prosperity depend primarily on historical data. Preserved in history are those great events which have undoubtedly changed the way we live. The following sermon is the finest example of the best human being that ever lived, peace be upon him.

This sermon by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was delivered on the Ninth Day of Zul-Hijjah, 10 AH (632 CE) in the Uranah valley of Mount Arafat in Makkah. It was the occasion of the annual rites of Haj (the pilgrimage). It is also known as the Farewell Pilgrimage. After praising, and thanking Allah, Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, began with the words.

"O People! Lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore, listen carefully to what I am saying and take these words to those who could not be present here today.

"O People! Just as you regard this month, this day, this city as sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your Lord, and that he will indeed reckon your deeds.

"Allah has forbidden you to take usury (interest); therefore all interest obligations shall henceforth be waived. Your capital is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. Allah has judged that there shall be no interest and that all the interest due to Abbas bin Abd al-Muttalib (Prophet’s uncle) be waived.

"Every right arising out of homicide in pre-Islamic days is henceforth waived and the first such right that I waive is that arising from the murder of Rabiah bin al-Harithiah.

"O Men! The unbelievers indulge in tampering with the calendar in order to make permissible that which Allah forbade, and to prohibit which Allah has made permissible. With Allah the months are twelve in number. Four of them are holy, three of these are successive and one occurs singly between the months of Jumada and Shaban.

"Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope of that he will be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.

"O People! It is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah’s trust and with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with anyone of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste.

"O People! Listen to me in earnest, worship Allah, say your five daily prayers, fast during month of Ramadan, and give your wealth in Zakat (obligatory charity). Perform Haj if you can afford to.

"All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not therefore do injustice to yourselves. Remember one day you will meet Allah and account for your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.

"O People! No prophet or apostle will come after me and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O People! and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the Quran and my Sunnah (i.e., Prophet’s sayings and deeds) and if you follow these you will never go astray. All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly."

Then the Last Prophet concluded his last message by raising his finger to heavens: "Be my witness O Allah, that I have conveyed your message to your people." Peace be upon him.
BY ABID ISHAQ

Murphy's Law

2006-01-26T14:51:00.000+04:00

Everyone has heard of 'Murphy's Laws' and have found them applicable to our daily lives as well (at least in most cases). Where and how did these laws come into being?

It was named after a Capt. Edward A. Murphy, an engineer working on Air Force Project (designed to see how much sudden deceleration a person can stand in a crash).

One day, after finding that a transducer was wired wrong, he cursed the technician responsible and said, "If there is any way to do it wrong, he'll find it."

The contractor's project manager kept a list of "laws" and added this one, which he called Murphy's Law.

But the original name for 'if anything can go wrong it will' was sod's law because it would happen to any poor sod (which I think is similar to 'fob').

One interesting fact about Murphy's Law was that it was not actually coined by
Murphy, but by another man of the same name.

Also I read a comment on how a law cannot be originated(?). Laws are discovered.

Let's look into how Mr. Murphy died :

One dark evening (in the U.S.), Mr. Murphy's car ran out of gas. As he hitchhiked to a gas station, while facing traffic and wearing white, he was struck from behind by a British tourist who was driving on the wrong side of the road.

How sad.

What Goes Round Comes Round

2005-12-15T12:44:00.000+04:00

This post will probably not contain anything interesting nor informative. I just felt the urge to have something new in here, because my posts have been on a standstill.

I got over with my exam yesterday, so now I can keep an open mind and find something to write about. Not that I spent all the time between my last post and yesterday studying. Its just that my mind was pre-occupied and too busy for me to write up something.

I guess I will get back to you when something clicks up there.

Oh and I dread next week. I'm the only one in the clinic for a week, because my partner is going to India for her brother's wedding. And everyone tells me that I'm supposed to be with the mean doctor next week. Its called 'Double Bad Luck'.

Hutterites

2005-11-20T20:50:00.001+04:00

Hutterites are a group of persons who are members of this Anabaptist and pacifist religion that evolved as an outgrowth of the Protestant reformation of the early 1500's.

This religious group was named after Jacob Hutter, who was burned to death at the stake in 1536 as a heretic by order of the Holy Roman Emperor, a Hapsburg King.

The early Hutterites lived in Austria, Bohemia, Moravia, Slovakia, Transylvania (then Hungary) and Wallachia (southern Romania) before continuing on to two major locations in European Russia (now the Ukraine). They emigrated to South Dakota starting in 1873 and then went elsewhere to Canada about 1918 and later some returned to America.

Many Hutterite descendants now live in small colonies in western Canada (Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan) and the north central and western United States (Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Washington State.

Hutterite preachers have been diligent in recording the family histories and vital events of their colonies in church books. This is a case of genealogy helping genetics research.

Hutterites stop schooling at 15. They have very small class sizes and some schools use the Montessori(I will talk about this in my next post) method.

This means Hutterite children have an almost zero exposure to Subliminal Distraction.

Researchers are saying that this could be the reason why Hutterite Colonies have very low incidents of Schizophrenia.

Mamzar

2005-11-16T21:07:00.000+04:00

A bunch of 7 of us today were let loose(?) at Mamzar. After our clinics today we left for the park. WahdaMuslimah(WM) was to get our food and meet us there. In the meanwhile, Shehzadii drove us to the place.

When we got there, we had some time extra before WM got there, so we decided to have some fun at the corniche side outside the park. The water was beautiful. Amazing in fact. It were as though someone had colored the water before we got there. There was the first band of water (along side the shore) which was crystal clear, we could see right through to the bottom. The second band after that was colored green, a very peaceful bluish green. The third band stretched to the horizon was colored blue, the most amazing blue you'll ever see. SubhanAllah. Nature's beauty.

Once WM got there, with the pizzas from Pizza Hut, we all packed into her car and started off the great day. We chose a nice shaded location, the green patch closest to the sea side (for the veiw). I never saw crows in UAE until today. There was a parrot we spotted and a very pretty blue colored one. And yeah we dug in. We were all very hungry (although we had snacks on our way to the park). Oh and we had guests at the picnic too - ANTS! There is no picnic without ants. Not only were they attacking our food, but us too! We observed a couple of them walking away with pieces from our pizza (bread crumbs, pepparoni). We witnessed the proof that they can actually carry 20(?) times their weight.

Lunch was done and Shehzadii had to leave. And then there were 6.

We were supposed to drive upto to the beach side of the place. But guess who got behind the wheel? ME! :D [P.S. I dont have a license yet!]. I drove pretty well MashaAllah (hehe I'm not boasting, this is what my friends told me - I did think so too though). Oh and I passed my greatest fear! The round-a-bouts. And then another of my friend (who also dint have a license yet took her turn). She was a bit fidgety at first. But she got the hang of it. :D

So we were finally at the beach side. The water was really really really cold compared to the warmth we were trying to escape by picking the shaded spots. The waves werent as high as they were the last time I had been there. Oh and by the way, salt water in your eyes burns(?) your eyes really bad. And then we met this whole bunch of arab kids - very naughty ones. They really loved WM because she was the only one who could speak arabic. They were all over her - literally. On boy got on her shoulders and kept asking her to stand up. Another 1 or 2 of them started pulling at her hair, and I think also pushing her head into the water at the same time. They also tried splashing water onto us. Then they began making mud balls and throwing them at us. Getting mud in your hair isnt very pretty. Another one grabbed at my friends leg and kept tugging at it. We ended up running away from them though. Oh and the moment we got out of the water and cleaned up, we were all starving. This is supposed to be a false sense of hunger, whereas you arent really hungry. It is when you have water in your ears, and that stimulates your vagus nerve, which in turn makes you think you are hungry.

Oh and then there was the park side. The little kids inside us were out. We were on the swings and this bar thing (what do you call it?) where you go all topsy turvy on it. And then there was this new thing I had never seen in my life before. Four sticks, one person on each end and then you just go up and down on it. It is sorta like a see-saw, except these are bars hung down from the see-saw on which you sit. The best part though were the monkey bars. As a kid I used be on them all the time. And I dint think I would be able to do it again. But I was. And I managed to convince everyone else to try it too, and they all managed to do it. :D

Another friend of mine was recently has a skateboard craze after she watched a movie named Lords of something(?I dont remember). So she was learning for the first time. I had tried it before but never got on it again after that because it was too scary. Today I managed a little distance with WM holding onto me. lol. Although WM and the others managed to learn quite a bit. MashaAllah. Quick learners.

And then I guess we just packed up and left. None of us had had so much activity all in one day in the recent past. MashaAllah we really really worked out.

P.S. It was ladies day at the park. So it was kinda like an advantage for us.

Jehovah's Witness

2005-11-14T19:00:00.000+04:00

I was doing some research on Jehovah's Witness and found some pretty interesting facts about them. They consider themselves to be the 'pure' or at least the purest form of Christianity. Here are some of their beliefs in breif.

There is one God Almighty, a Spirit Being with a body but not a human body. There is one God and no Trinity.

Christ is a Savior, not God incarnate. He was not a God-man rather a being inferior to God. He was a 'created' spirit being. He was God's only begotten son, sent to earth as a perfect human being. They also believe in Christ having sacrificed his life to redeem mankind of sin and evil.

God created the heavens and the earth in six days (each day equal to thousands of years). They reject the theory of evolution and refuse to believe in it.

Souls die when the body dies. No soul exists after the death of a person. The dead are then resurrected by Jesus Christ. Those who have done righteous deeds will be rewarded an everlasting life on a 'paradise earth'. Those who were unrighteous will simply die and cease to exist. There is no concept of torment or hell or any form of punishment for the wrong doers.

Satan and his demons roam the earth to tempt man to sin, which God allowed as a part of the test of our faith in Him.

They condemn celebration of birthdays and celebration of other holidays or festivities originated from other religions.

God has allowed suffering (self-inflicted or through means of Satan) so that mankind can discover that God's rule is better than independent human rule. It is a part of the challenge of Satan's claim that people would turn away and curse God when under pressure.

Abortion is a sin.

Homosexuality is a sin.

Men are the head of the household. Women are meant to submit themselves to their husbands. The men are to give respect to their wives in return.

Divorce is permitted only under very specific circumstances. Re-marriage is disliked unless the divorce was due to adultery.

They are not to serve in the armed forces or form any alliance with the government. Allegiance must be only to the Kingdom of Christ.

Blood transfusion is not permitted for them. They believe that God has said the soul is in the blood. Also, ingesting of blood is prohibited. God alone has the right to their blood.

Conference Today

2005-11-09T16:22:00.000+04:00

So we had a conference today about 7 cases of Kyphoscoliosis in Lateral Gaze Palsy reported in Iran between the years 1996 - 2000.

Lateral Gaze Palsy is a rare disease which was only recognised recently (1970 I think). So far there have been only 62(?) reported cases in the world. Most of which have been found to be localized in Middle Eastern countries (Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Tunisia(?)).

In lateral gaze palsy, the patient is unable to move his eyes sideways, i.e. towards left side or right side. The patient however can move the eyes in the vertical directions, i.e upwards and downwards. It has been found to be associated with Chromosome 19 mutations.

Kyphosis is an exaggerated forward bending of the spine. Whereas scoliosis is the exaggerated sideways bend of the spine. Kyphoscoliosis is a combination of the two together (forward and sideways bend).

All the 7 cases happened to be related to each other because of the extensive inter-family marriages. Lateral gaze palsy is known to be of autosomal recessive type of inheritance. This means that the parents of the affected do not have the disease do not have the disease but are only carriers. And only when two carriers come together can the disease be inherited by their offsprings.

One of the cases, was misdiagnosed as a condition called Torticollis, because lateral gaze palsy was that uncommon. Torticollis is a condition where the patient is unable to move his head to one side, due to a defect in the muscle called sterno-cleido-mastoid. The kid that was mis-diagnosed was actually operated on for torticollis when she was a little baby.

Anyways, the seminar was pretty good and given by Dr. Farid GhasemZadeh Orthopedic Surgeon in Iranian Hospital-Dubai. The 7 reported cases were the cases that he came across during his residency period in Iran.

Chocolate and Women

2005-11-06T20:09:00.000+04:00

WOW! Chocolate is indeed another miracle. No matter how moody you are, no matter how stressed out you are, no matter what has gone wrong in your life, there is nothing that a little chocolate cant fix.

Oh my, I had the loveliest(?) ice cream today, with a LOT of chocolate in it. I feel like I'm on a high on it. Although the cold kinda like did trigger something that could stir up into a migraine.

Anyways, 95% of the women out there would probably say they love chocolte and couldnt live without it. Why I said 95% and not 99% is because I have met women who dont really like chocolate all that much. Which is kinda weird. And I dont get why.

Werther Effect

2005-11-04T11:41:00.000+04:00

Werther effect is a term used to describe 'imitation' or 'copycat' suicide. The term was coined after the Goethe novel "Die Leiden des Jungen Werther" in 1774 which encouraged young men to take their lives like the novel's hero 'Werther'. In the novel, Werther shot himself after a failed love affair. Soon after the novel was published there were many reports of young men using the same method to commit suicide.

There have been two such recent cases reported in the newspaper which occured in UAE. One man killed himself after stabbing his wife and 4 kids to death. The second man cut the veins of his throat and hands and locked himself up in the trunk of his car.

After these cases were reported, suicidal tendencies increased drastically. The psychatric hospital said it got a huge number of cases who had suicidal tendencies after reading about these cases.

Interesting as it may seem, its kinda creepy and scary as well. It follows a principle of suggestion. Its like the people who committed the suicide are kinda like suggesting their ideas to the other people out there, who for some reason or another may have been going through a period of depression at that point o their life, and these ideas remain in their head until they actually decide to try them out.

Frustrating Day

2005-10-30T16:28:00.000+04:00

Today was not one of the best.

To begin with, I had severe insomnia last night, due to which I was unable to sleep. I linked it to the late night tea (which was pretty strong) which I had, although this is probably the first time that tea has had any effect on me.

At the hospital, we had a pretty tough topic picked up for the lecture - Epilepsy. It was very hard to concentrate given that my eyes were heavy and burning from lack of sleep. Not only was the topic hard, the doctor was speeding so bad, it sounded like I was listening to an audio clip in fast forward mode.

The clinics were no less of a torture. Me and my partner (clinic partner) reach the pediatrics ward and find out that it wasnt the usual doctor. We were posted with the 'Mean Pediatric Doctor'. He doesnt like both of us. He is nicer to the rest of the group (because they sorta have arabs in those groups). We came back a while later, to find his clinic empty. He had left for his ward rounds. And then we find out he isnt in the Pediatric ward, he was in the neonatal ward. We went upstairs, and asked one of the nurses if we could join our assaigned doctor. She says "Dont come in, stay there and wait." And she disappears. 10 minutes we were standing there before she returned again and said "Dont come in okay? Just wait there." 10 minutes more and we get impatient, and I was tired. We peep inside and found someone there, asked her to find our doctor and inform him that his students were waiting. Inside the ward, we heard a conversation between her, the first nurse and our doctor, in persian, all of them screaming all over the place.

Finally we decided there was no use waiting any longer, so we left. We decided to go to the other pediatric doctor in the meanwhile. We were just in time to see the doctor leave his clinic to tend to an emergency case, and were unable to talk to him. There we were left to ourselves with nothing to do. My clinic partner (also the class Geek) decided to go after him (and demand for her rights?). I was too tired. I told her I'm gonna sit just there. She can do whatever she wants. Her attempt yeilded no result. She lost the doctor and couldnt find him anywhere.

Later she decided to go to the pediatrics ward and have a look at the case files. I decided to pass on that one, because I was too tired. Then I changed my mind and ended up with her because I realized I'd get bored of too much free time with nothing to do and noone to talk to.

So yea basically, no sleep, walked around the hospital in circles at least 5 times, made to stand around for like nearly half an hour. I was tired!

Come to think of it, this might be what I have to put up with when I do become a full-fleged doctor inshaAllah. How can I complain then? Its going to be my job. And whether I am tired or not, I wont be excused.

I think this is turning out into a nightmare even before I'm actually there.

Customizing

2005-10-28T20:17:00.000+04:00

Yup, I've been customizing my blog page. :D

The sidebar has most of the changes. Very minute though, but all the same exciting as far as I am concerned.

I'm hoping to come up with nicer/fancier ideas. In the meanwhile your suggestions are always welcome.

Thank You.

Responsibilty - Nerving!

2005-10-24T21:00:00.000+04:00

Today our doctor was telling us how, being a doctor is fun and exciting but at the same time, can be very dangerous and hectic.

I am posted in pediatrics currently, and he told us of a case he got at the hospital 3 days back. It was a 5 day old baby. The mother complained that the baby wasnt breathing. And so it was a case of respiratory distress, and the baby wasnt breathing.

The baby was taken into emergency. The doctor asked the nurse to start an IV(intravenous) line. The nurse was unable to do so. A second nurse came and had her go at the baby's veins. She was unable as well. A third nurse also tried but failed. In the end, the baby was presented to the doctor and was told that the nurse was unable to start an IV line. Also, keep in mind the nurses had already punctured all possible venous sites. Crisis situation!

The doctor was simply trying to say, that in the end it all comes down to the doctor. At the end of the day, nobody will question the nurse as to why she was unable to get the IV line. All eyes will be on the doctor. And questions thrown at the doctor as why this life was not saved.

No matter who else is involved, it is always the doctor who is responsible and answerable for the life of this baby. Similarly the case with any other patient.

I guess being a doctor is no small a deal. It is in fact a very big deal. You are taking the life of another human being into your own hands. And the patients put all their hope and trust in you. Its hard with so much burden on your shoulders. Then again, someone has to do it!

Call upon Allah

2005-10-23T21:32:00.000+04:00

99 names of Allah with the explanation and meaning of each, all of which can be used to call upon Him and have been used several times in the Quran itself.

99 Names of Allah

Saddam Trial

2005-10-19T21:18:00.000+04:00

So today I was listening to BBC on the radio (I never knw they were being broadcasted on the radio here in the UAE 'wow'). The 'Breaking News' for today was of course, Saddam's trial.

Saddam apparently has 2 personal lawyers and is being judged by 5 Judges. The case that was being tried was one that took place in the year 1982 (if I remember correct). It was when some people opened fire at Mr. Saddam himself, the so-called 'failed assassination'. On this account, he ordered around 140 people to be beheaded(?). Several others were imprisoned and tortured related to this same issue.

Why did they choose this case of all the others, for there are more brutal crimes that he has comitted? Because this was one of the cases in which they had more firm evidence against him, like documents signed by him which ordered the executions.

What the Iraqis think of this? Well, there is a very large portion of them who are literally celebrating inside their hearts to finally see some action being taken against him (most of them being people who lost family and loved ones in his hands). Also, there were people who thought that it is unfair and injust. They say that it is Iraq alone which should have the right to try Saddam for his crimes (I completely agree with that). There are still some others who think that none of this matters to them anymore. What is of concern to them is that they can get their family into safety and re-establish themselves, and turn things to make their lives normal again.

The news reporter also added another interesting comment. That the US was taking this step also to prove to Iraqis that they mean only good and to make sure that justice is served. (not those exact wordings, I forgot)

Ah well, we shall see.

Priorities

2005-10-14T13:19:00.000+04:00

Scanning through the list of those in need my eyes fall on a couple of them including, the homeless and the injured in Iraq, the Orphans in Palestine, the many who still havent recovered in Afghanistan, those who lost everything they owned in the Huirricane Katrina, starving children in some parts of Africa, those who lost home and family in the Pakistan earthquake and then of course there were those Israelis who were suffering from not having a soccer stadium.

Qatar, growing on as one of the richest due to its gas reserves, knew its priorities very well. Its quite obvious which of these people need aid immediately.

The newspaper headline reassured Qatar's ability in recognising this
Qatar donates $6 million for Israel Stadium

What would become of those poor people if they dont get to play soccer in their very own stadium.

Take a minute to imagine how the world would change if all the other rich countries were to do as Qatar has.

Switching off the sarcastic tone, in conclusion, not only are the rich and powerful becoming richer and more powerful, but all the rich are helping each other achieve the goal of making this happen. So many people (upto 45,000) were killed and several others still missing and many others homeless, so many children left orphaned by the recent, tragic earthquake. And if those who are loaded are unwilling to help their recovery, then I believe that a day will come when a portion of the world will soon get completely wiped out, purely due to our ignorance and carelessness.

Why Gandhi Missed the Nobel Prize?

2005-10-10T21:29:00.000+04:00

This happens to be a very interesting question actually, and a related article appeared in the local newspaper here. Hence, I thought it would be interesting to share the clipping.

Why did Mahatma Gandhi never win the Noble Peace Prize?

It is a question people are again asking as the Norwegian committee has just announced the prize winner this year — the International Atomic Energy agency and its chief Mohammed ElBaradei. Gandhi's omission has been widely criticised to the extent that later members of the Nobel committee publicly regretted it.

When the Dalai Lama was awarded the prize in 1989, the chairman of the committee said that this was "in part a tribute to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi". Gandhi, revered as the Father of the nation in India, was nominated for the prize in 1937, 1938, 1939, 1947 and, finally, a few days before he was murdered in January 1948.

On behalf of the Friends of India Association in Norway, Ole Colbjornsen, deputy member of the Norwegian parliament, nominated Gandhi's name thrice — 1937, 1938 and 1939. In 1937, Gandhi was duly selected as one of 13 candidates on the Norwegian committee's short list.

The committee's adviser, Professor Jacob Worm-Müller, who wrote a report on Gandhi, however was very critical of the Mahatma.
"He is undoubtedly a good, noble and ascetic person — a prominent man who is deservedly honoured and loved by the masses of India...(But) sharp turns in his policies, which can hardly be satisfactorily explained by his followers. He is a freedom fighter and a dictator, an idealist and a nationalist. He is frequently a Christ, but then, suddenly, an ordinary politician."

The adviser pointed out that Gandhi was not consistently pacifist and that he should have known that some of his non-violent campaigns towards the British would degenerate into violence and terror.

Moreover, Worm-Müller expressed doubts whether Gandhi's ideals were universal or primarily Indian: "One might say that it is significant that his well-known struggle in South Africa was on behalf of the Indians only, and not of the blacks whose living conditions were even worse."

The argument that went against Gandhi in 1947 was that the Nobel Peace Prize had never been awarded for any struggle for independence.

"Labour politician Martin Tranmوl was very reluctant to award the Prize to Gandhi in the midst of the India-Pakistan conflict, and former foreign minister Birger Braadland agreed with Tranmوl. Gandhi was, they thought, too strongly committed to one of the belligerents."

The Nobel website quotes from Jahn's diary: "While it is true that he (Gandhi) is the greatest personality among the nominees — plenty of good things could be said about him — we should remember that he is not only an apostle for peace; he is first and foremost a patriot... Moreover, we have to bear in mind that Gandhi is not naive. He is an excellent jurist and a lawyer."

Committee adviser Seip commented in his very favourable report that "Gandhi can only be compared to the founders of religions."

The committee decided to make no award that year (the year of his assassination - 1948) on the grounds that "there was no suitable living candidate". The qualifying clause is the closest the committee came to honour the 'great soul'.

Ramadan Special

2005-10-08T15:46:00.000+04:00

I wanted to sit down and write a couple of interesting and useful tips that might come in handy during the month of Ramdan. Unfortunately, I havent been able to get down to it. However, here is an article very similar to what I had in mind. Its written by Navaid Aziz.

Ramadan - The Month of Love

I'll come up with something of my own soon InshaAllah.

Why not a coward?

2005-10-02T16:02:00.000+04:00

This one goes out to all those people who have been made fun of and told off my family, friends and society for being a coward. Who says being a coward is a bad thing?

You are always on the safer side. (especially in case war)
Even if you did do something, noone would ever suspect you.
Your friends would never dare you to do something weird.
You never get into trouble in school. (you will always be someone in the background)
Your parents will be proud of you because your teacher never complains.

And most importantly, if it werent for you cowards, we would be unable to define the brave.

I had some more in mind. I cant remember right now. Anyways, all I'm trying to say is that it isnt all that bad to be a coward.

Forgive Me

2005-09-29T14:58:00.000+04:00

"O Allah, I repent to Thee for all the sins I have comitted. For all those moments that I did not remember You. For all those times I failed to fear You. For all those prayers I missed when I could not wake to the ringing of my alarm clock. For all those prayers I put off for later because I was busy. For everytime I refused to listen to the voice in my head calling me to prayer. For all those times that my prayer to You was not sincere. For all those times that my mind wandered in my prayer. For the many days that I did not recite the Quran.

Forgive me for all the lies that have slipped my tongue. For every second glance at a cute guy that passed by. For all the times that I had been unable to control my eyes. For every evil thought that has crossed my mind. For any evil deed that You had prohibited. For any good deed that I failed to do. For every duty I failed to fulfill.

Forgive me for everytime I uttered a word of shame to my parents. For every moment that I did not thank You for their presence. For all the times I did not tend to their needs.

Forgive me for all the times I refused to thank You for your blessings. And for all the times that I failed to turn to You for help.

O Allah, forgive my sins and purify my soul. Make me of those who engage in all that is good and keep away from all that is bad. Shield me from the whispers of the devil. Lead me to the path that takes me closer to Thee."

Inspiration from a Book I just read 'I Want To Repent But..'

So Yesterday So Yesterday

2005-09-25T17:38:00.000+04:00

At the orthopedic clinic yesterday, there was a russian patient who visited the doctor about an ankle sprain, along with his friend (the translator). Although he was a translator his vocabulary in english was very limited.

The doctor asked the patient to get an X-ray done. He said yes initially, though he clearly did not understand. They stand up to leave and the translator person asks the doctor, "Why dont you do a 'Roentgen' for him?". At first I was like 'huh? what is that?'.(He pronounced the 't' in it as well. It is supposed to be silent right?)

I was actually a little surprised that people still call X-rays by his name. Roentgen by the way is the one who discovered X-rays in the tube thingy(vacum tubes?).

Oh and when they came back with the X-ray, I also got to know that they dont understand what a 'cast' is. They called it gypsum. Which isnt really just as shocking as the 'Roentgen' thingy.

A small note to share. Nearly a 95% of all right handed people have a dominant left hemisphere. And 60% of left handed people have a dominant left hemisphere (not right!). Only 20% of left handed people have a dominant right hemisphere. The remaining 20% left handed people have a mixed dominance. Considering the fact that only around 10% of the world population is left handed, that would mean that we have 96% of the world population with left hemisphere dominance and only 2% with right hemisphere dominance and the remaining 2% to have mixed dominance.

Adapting to Luxury

2005-09-17T18:13:00.000+04:00

What was considered luxury a couple of years back has now become an essential component of human lives, making it nearly impossible to survive without it. The 3 basic needs are no longer food, clothing and shelter. We have gone far beyond that era.

It is nearly impossible for some to people to imagine their lives without having a car to get around. Moving around from one place to another has become a piece of cake these days. But we are so dependent on our vehicles, that one day without it could be a living hell.

Consider the telephone for example, the most widely used means of communication. Even the beggars in the streets have cell phones. There is no need to start on what chaos it can create. I alone know how much trouble I had to go through trying to survive 6 days without my cell phone. It was a mess.

No matter how much you try to deny it, luxury has been incorporated into our lives in such a way that we cant survive without it. It is no longer only confined to the richer sections. It has strongly affected the middle class and almost just as much, the below average people.

To my shock, I have seen auto-rickshaw drivers to street vendors to beggars carrying a cell phone around with them, in India. If you think about it, this would mean a whole new definition for the term ‘poor’.

Warming Up Again

2005-09-06T17:44:00.000+04:00

Back from my vacation in India, and settling down in Dammam (Saudi Arabia), feels like trying to bring order after a violent storm has ended.

Like I always say, from the minute I landed in India, the sky was bluer, the grass greener and the air fresher. You feel like a new person, walking into a new life. Nature's beauty is so immense that no one person's eye can completely have taken it in, no poet's pen can completely describe it, no photograph can completely capture. Living for so long in the Middle East, my eyes were accustomed to dull greenery of the date palms and the smell of sand particles in the air. Not a wonder that I've been having attacks of sneezing ever since I got back.

This trip was something I had been looking forward to very eagerly for the past 3 years. Neither was I disappointed nor was I satisfied. It is one of those moments I wish I could go over again and make a few corrections along the way. Every mistake that one makes has a lesson to teach and learn from. Matter of concern arises when the bad outweighs the good that comes from it.

Overall, the surroundings the kind of life in India is healthy to the physical mind, but certain factors make it a mental killer.

Having fallen ill a couple of times, physical stamina at the beginning has worn down.

Plan was to miss a week of hospital and stay here for 2 weeks. Looks like I wont get the whole week off. I might miss 2/3 days. Maybe WahdaMuslimah could help me here and let me know when the 'actual' classes start. Because I had we have 3 days set down for orientation. Is that true?

Oh and I read up what I missed on your blog (ninnevah.blogspot.com). Looks like you spent all your time in OBG. I went on a circulation through almost all departments (except OBG). And my training duration shrunk by a great deal due to technical problems (to my advantage). And you've also been having visitors. My text messages arent going through. Blog is a funny way to communicate with a classmate. Oh and by the way my cell phone isnt with me. Its in Dubai with my brother. So no use trying on my number.

While I'm at it, I'd like to congratulate Mr. Abu Yusef (the name by which I know him) on the occassion of the birth of his son Yusef and earning the title (although he accustomed himself to it even before). Wishing a healthy recovery to your wife and all the best to your Yusef and your safe return to yuor family InshaAllah.

Since I'm back after a month I have a lot to say and share. But it will have to wait for two reasons. One, I am too lazy at the moment. Two, there is too much to fit into one post.

In Bahrain

2005-08-01T10:00:00.000+04:00

So I'm in Bahrain now. I am supposed to be in India right now. But I'm not.

Basically, this time my flight to Bahrain was a little more eventful because I had a friend travelling with me on the same flight. She gave me a heart attack on the way. What happened was, that we were heading towards the tube things that lead into the flight, and she over-heard one of the security people talking over their walkie-talkie. Since it was in arabic I dint get it. But she did. She told me that they had found something in one of the baggages and they had to get it back out (my flight was already delayed by half an hour, this added to the delay). And she concluded it was most likely drugs. We reach near the entrance of the flight and she stops dead. She doesnt move. "Whats wrong?" I ask. She has this odd expression on her face and she says "I cant get on the flight. Something is very wrong. I can feel it." I was in shock. What was she saying? I look at the security guy standing there (he had a long black beard and a gun in his waist band thingy - typical terrorist look). I stood there with her, thinking I have to get on the flight no matter what. And then I picture myself on the flight in mid-air and "KABOOM!" the bomb goes off. After several minutes of convincing by the airport staff and security, she got on the plane. And she goes "I knew I was right. Something was wrong. They took her baggage off the flight and dint let her get on." I could have wanted to kill her for scaring me like that. And she went on to tell me about her 'sixth sense'. (I pray she never reads my blog).

And then I reach Bahrain. We had exactly 2 hours to get back to the airport for our flight to India (me and my dad). We raced back to his room, packed everything up in a hurry and after we were all set, my dad was like we should call the airport and confirm the flight timing. (floods in India have been delaying flights for several days now). And when he did call, they said the flight was delayed by 11 hours. Sigh! My dad was like we will still go ourselves and have a look. We left for the airport, and the flight was actually delayed. He convinced the flight in-charge guy that we came a long way with so much luggage. So they checked us in so that we wouldnt have to carry it back with us. (There went ALL my clothes, my toothbrush and blah blah). So we slept over it, and then got all packed again, and off to the airport. My dad decides to call the airport again. What do you know! Another 2 hour delay again! My dad is like there is nothing to do till then, we'll go to the office. So yeah I'm at his office now. He went out for something, poor me getting bored. hehe.

So anyways, if there isnt any more delay I should be on the flight to India in approximately 3 hours. InshaAllah.

Oh by the way, my uncle was telling me about this building being constructed in Bangalore (a city in India) with 204 floors. I mean like woa! The world is on a tallest building spree everywhere! And then he went on to talk about how the elevator there crosses one floor in one second, which would make it an estimated 5 minutes to get to the top floor. Like 5 minutes in an elevator is a LOT! SubhanAllah! Thats like 10 minutes to go up and come back down. This is like one means to kill time.

Over and out now.
Ma'assalama!

Flying To Family!!

2005-07-30T18:00:00.000+04:00

Okay so I was tempted to put up another post before I leave (hehe). Tomorrow I leave the God-Forsaken place (some people call it the dorm!), to join my family who are already on vacation. I leave for Bahrain from here, and then fly home to India with my dad, who is waiting for me in Bahrain. And then the whole family will be united once again! (InshaAllah)

I'm supposed to be doing my training there for 3 weeks duration. Obviously, that involves studying! But oh well, all happiness comes at a cost doesnt it? And its a price I'm willing to pay!

Also, to add on some readers have already seen the movie I was talking about (hehe). Not such a big mystery after all!

Anyways, Adios!!

Salam.
Will be back in one months time (InshaAllah)

The First Day of a New Life

2005-07-29T14:49:00.000+04:00

This is most likely my last post before leaving for my summer holidays. InshaAllah.

Well, the topic is a small dialogue I stole from a movie I watched a couple of days ago. Not one that I would recommend someone to watch (so I wont mention the name). But it had a nice dramatic ending to it!

It was about a man Mr. X, who had a miserable life, because both his wife Mrs. X and his daughter X jr. found him an embarassment to be associated with. They keep focusing on how Mr X is a big time loser. Also Mr X is always treated like a door-mat. One fine day, Mr X snaps out of it, and decides to be the 'man of the house' once again. He goes off on a spree. Forcing authority over his wife and daughter (making their lives hell). This was apparently his 'new life'. However, it was the very same day that he fixed everything, he was destined to die. He was shot in the head. There was a sequence of events though, just before he dies which leads his thoughts into the past and his family.

The final one minute after he was shot, was what all the drama was about. Where he watches his life flash by him. He thinks of what a lucky man he was. He had a beautiful wife and a lovely daughter. He thinks back to the happy days, and how blessed he was, yet failed to see it all until it was too late. Same happens to the wife. She realizes her loss when her husband dies. She regrets what she had done to him - but it was too late.

Makes you think how some of the very few sorrows or tragedies in life makes you forget your blessings. Keep counting your blessings before throwing them out. All of us happen to sulk or even go into severe depression over something very small that happens in our life. In the meanwhile, we tend to forget any good that has ever crossed our path, and go on to cursing this 'miserable life'. Automatically, leading on to suicide. Its hard to smile through your troubles. But keeping your spirits up at the hard times, has always helped me!

A second point to make, that wasnt in the movie, was regards to thanking Allah for your blessings. Rather than turning to him only in your hardships. Its a natural tendency of every man. Very few actually remember to thank him during the happy times. Just putting up a reminder.

The End.

Modernisation at what cost??

2005-07-17T17:05:00.000+04:00

I focus mainly on the dressing aspect here, because that is where the flow of thoughts originated from (a tv show I was watching).

When I speak, I speak for the people of the sub-continent (India, Pakistan and Bangladesh).

As far as I remember, the manner in which a woman is dressed reflects her inner self. And a woman was a symbol of modesty. Hence, the way she dresses reflected upon her modesty. This was the manner in which the clothes (in the whole sub-continent) were designed, so as to fulfil this requirement.

But what has happened today?

The scissors of the tailor have been over-worked. The clothes have shrunken in size and comes along with a few snips here and there. The material has shifted to the 'see-through' type. Some of the clothes have their sleeves chopped off (apparently they arent needed anymore).

The new definition of modern for the women - the more skin that shows, the more modern you are.

Is it because the women have lost their modesty, along the way to modernisation?

Does forgetting ones' identity come along with modernisation? Is it the price we have to pay??

StatCounter

2005-07-10T14:17:00.000+04:00

Just to share my excitement on having put up a stat counter in my blog page. Its right there on the right side of the page. This is so cool! Thanx a million to Abu Yusef. :)

Oh and I just found out that I have veiwers from Germany and Portugal and Belgium!! (I think thats so cool, even though they might not read anything.. hehe)

Yea, thats about it.. This is fun! yipeeee! Lol.. :D

Ayodhya - PlayGround For Politicians?

2005-07-09T15:41:00.000+04:00

Ayodhya is a city in the state of Uttar Pradesh (home to nearly 13m Muslims), in India. The word 'ayodhya' literally means "not to be warred against". However, despite its peaceful name, all hell broke out in the city, when in 1992 the Babri mosque was razed to the ground along with several other mosques in the city, killing more than 2,000 people.

The Babri Masjid was a mosque constructed by the 1st Mugal emperor of India - Babur (16th century). Babur was accused of having destroyed an existing temple at the site, birthplace of Rama(7th avatar of God), before building the mosque.

In 1949, Hindu activists broke in and placed statues of Rama inside the mosque. The mosque was then sealed. In 1986 the mosque was reopened to allow Hindus to worship there.

The mosque was destroyed on December 6, 1992, by activists known to belong to a Hindu political group.
The violence and destruction continued for nearly 12 hours, with mobs roaming the streets of the town, plundering and torching Muslim homes. The mobs also targeted other mosques in Ayodhya.

Following the destruction of the mosque, communal riots broke out between Hindus and Muslims across India, including Bombay.

After a study, on August 25, 2003, the Archaeological Survey of India produced a controversial report that stated, there was evidence of a large Hindu temple having pre-existed beneath the Babri mosque.

The historian - Prof. S. Gopal (May 2004) said - "So far no evidence has been found to support the claim that Babri Masjid was constructed on land that was earlier occupied by a temple. In Ayodhya to-day there are still about 30 places where Rama was claimed to have been born."

On July 5, 2005 five terrorists attacked the disputed site. Security forces killed all five terrorists.

Currently, all efforts are being made to pin all blame on Pakistani Terrorist Groups in India. Rumors are going around claiming that the recently established 'friendly' ties between India and Pakistan might be affected as a result of this attack.

Blessed Days - As Little Angels

2005-07-05T16:35:00.000+04:00

There were once those days when every one of us was a little angel, and 'innocent' in the true sense of the word.

The world seemed more colourful back then. The sky was bluer, the grass was greener. And you could always hear a bird singing into the morning air, which came dancing into the room through the open windows.

We believed that mom and dad were heavenly beings, who carried with them, the answer to anything and everything. What they or any other adult talked about was jibberish, which was understood only by them, and was beyond our comprehension.

Life was merely about how much 'more' fun you can have today than you did yesterday. You could wish for anything, and you can have it.

Love was all you knew about, and you dint know how to lie or steal. And your prayers to God would go "God, Can I please have some ice-cream today? I am being a good kid."

Everyone around you, who smiled was happy! And anyone who was sad, needed a candy or a hug maybe.

To have those days back, I would give anything. To know that everything is always okay, and taken care of, when tucked into bed. To know that there were no barriers or differences. You, me and the boy next door were all the one and the same.

To know that I would wake up the next morning to see that the sun had risen just for me....

Islam being 'hijacked'??

2005-06-28T21:32:00.000+04:00

(This is a letter written by a reader to the local newspaper that I found interesting)

Muslims have often complained of Islam being hijacked by a minority of fanatical followers, bent on waging a holy war against 'The West'. If Muslims feel that way, then they have only themselves to blame for leaving the door wide open and falling asleep.

A short while back, Canadian-based Irshad Manji published what was hoped to be the ultimate controversy in the North American Islamic Community. In her book, 'The Trouble with Islam', Irshad stressed 'reformation' ideas that seemed to revolve mostly on agitating practicing Muslims, rather than genuinely proposing any change.

After the book-launching and promotional kick-offs, her publishers had hoped for a much anticipated public backlash, Muslims burning her books, rallies and riots. Much to their disappointment, there was not so much as a momentary yawn from the Muslim community, conferences where the turn out was so small that they had to be cancelled, and community leaders who did not have the time of day to accept several invitations from Irshad Manji to debate on talk shows.

Muslims in North America have learnt that in such times, riots and rallies only serve the cause of extremists such as Irshad Manji, and the best way to deal with them is to counter their arguments with silence. At the same time, a thorough self-study of what reality is, so that we have answers to give to our children who are approached by the filth strewn from the likes of Irshad.

When we do not educate ourselves on Islam and put it into practice, we allow all elements of extermism - both from the left and the right - to take over the empty stage.

- Zeeshan Dogar, Mississauga, Ontario, Cananda

My Birthday

2005-06-21T21:01:00.000+04:00

Yay!! I'm finally out of my 'teens'?

My friends made a little drama sort of thing which was supposedly a typical day of mine.. (sorta exaggerated actually - over exaggerated even) And they enacted it out at 12 midnight. One of my friends made a couple of songs for me too. :)

And then in the morning (well noon actually) they took me out for lunch. Where one of my friends gifted me a flower.

And then of course they had to act like idiots and make a fool of themselves. One of them (who assumes herself to be a princess) goes into a little kiddie pink castle to get her picture taken. The guy in-charge looked at us weird (probably thinking "Are they mentally unstable?").

And then they got their feet tired, so they sat themselves on the floor. One of them with her boots off her feet and laid in front of her. It was a hilarious veiw. It looked like they were performing for money or something. So a third one goes in between and strikes the other two (who are seated) on the head with a roll of paper going "I'm the drummer!". And a fourth one picks up a chair and sits by the side going "I'm collecting the money."

And of course I had my evening shift, so I was at the hospital the rest of the day...

Blessed

2005-06-16T15:39:00.000+04:00

I woke up a little late today morning. As soon as I realized this, I ran to the bin as fast as my little legs could carry me. I was hoping that I'm not too late. I reached the bin, and peered into it. I was too late. The trash had been cleared already. I missed it!

I stuck my hand into my pocket. Empty as usual. There was a hole in the right pocket of my trouser. And it was getting bigger. Also, I just noticed that I need to get myself a new shirt. The pocket of the shirt was hanging, almost ripped off by the naughty boys I met along the other street. Three of the buttons were also missing.

I walked over to the edge of the sidewalk, and sat down there. My stomach growled. It was hungry. Last night there wasnt enough left over at the restaurant. I just had one bread for dinner. And now that bin was cleared, my breakfast was gone.

I closed my eyes. There wasnt much noise around. It was still early. I could hear a few cars rumbling in the distant. Everyone was starting their car up for work.

I made a silent prayer.

I was 12 years old. Both my parents died when I was 10, in a fire while I was at school. My father taught me a lot in the few years that he had with me. Which is why, I tend to be more sophisticated than other kids of my age. I was born with only one hand - my right one.

"O Allah! Most merciful and most powerful. Forgive my sins. I repent to thee. Thank you for your blessings. Thank you for the parents I was blessed with. Take good care of them. And open the gates of heaven for them. Thank you for my two legs and the one hand. Especially for my right hand. Please help me find breakfast."

Slowly I opened my eyes. And smiled to myself. The world is so much more beautiful with its colours.

"Thank You for my eyes."

I got up with a big smile on my face. I headed straight towards the restaurant round the corner, with a faint hope that they might offer me free breakfast before I start at my job.

The World In My Head...

2005-06-07T20:40:00.000+04:00

From the middle of the ocean, it seems like the whole world is only water. No shore nor coast to be seen. No land in sight. Not even sure of the existance of land.

However, so many people ended up there - in the middle of the ocean.

Why are they there? What is their purpose? And who put them there?

Here and there, scattered about, were 'signs' that indicated the direction that one must take to return safely to land.

There was a large number of people initially, who chose to accept and believe in the signs, all of whom followed the direction (the 'right' directions) and headed that way (swimming).
Yet there were those who refused to believe in those signs and opted to follow their instincts.
Some others, concluded that the signs were meant to mislead, and took the course directly opposite.
There were also some who believed that there was no purpose to the whole thing. They were illusioned that it was 'chance' that brought them there, and no being was responsible. And so, they decided to enjoy every moment of it.

Each of these groups had their own leaders, who read the signs and instructed their followers accordingly.
There were amongst the crowd, those who wanted to be a leader as well. So they read the signs differently, convinced a few and lead some (blind followers) off the main track.

Amongst those who took the right path were two types of people. One, the kind who worried only about self to reach safety. The other, were those who stopped people heading the wrong way, and try to convince them of the truth (perhaps they care too much?).

The little ones were taken too far off course at times, to turn back when they realize the truth. However, some determined ones do make it back. And some others are too lazy, and so follow where the crowd takes them. Also, there were some who were being mislead.

Now... which one of them is right and which ones are wrong? Who is to blame? How can you prove either? Not one of those people can see land for themselves. How can anyone be sure of the existance of land? How can anyone be sure of the path to be taken towards that long awaited place?

Perhaps this is the strength of faith and belief???

Messenger Freaks...

2005-06-02T17:52:00.000+04:00

Have you ever had weird people adding you on msn? Well, I have. Too many times actually.

Most of them were random guys who come across my address in a forwarded mails in an attempt to make new 'friends'. This is what usually happens:

As soon as the person comes online....
Me: Who are you?
Guy: Hello
Guy: h r u?
Me: Who are you?
Guy: I am fine
Guy: u?
Me: not how
Me: WHO are you?
Guy: My name is xxx. wht is ur name?
Me: Not exactly what my question meant. But oh well..
Me: Why did you add me?
Guy: i want chat u. can i be ur friend? u mind?
Me: Where did you get my ID from?
Guy: from fwd mails
Me: You are crazy to be going around adding random people that you dont know
Guy: why u angry?
Me: First of all, you need lessons in english. Second, my mommy told me not to talk to strangers.
Me: Bye

And then I block and delete the person from my list.

Also, once two lesbian girls (using the same ID) added me. I ended up having a 1 or 2 hour (dont remember) argument about how I felt about lesbianism. Lol.. it was actually pretty funny.

Anyways, the lesson I learnt is... dont forward emails around. You might end with bad results.

Belief....

2005-06-02T17:41:00.000+04:00

There comes a stage/phase in life when we believe in something that we havent ever given a thought to. Yet, at that very moment we feel there is nothing more in this world worth believing. You wanna throw away everything else that you have ever worked for and earned through all your years of living for just this.

And at this point, no reason and no logic can make you change your mind. No matter how hard you try to think, it seems to be the only important thing in the world.
All the quotes that you had once read, are no longer just a bunch of words that people made a big deal of because famous people said it. They are all falling into place now.

Finally, you see that there was a purpose for your living. You are actually moving ahead. And you have actually reached a checkpoint along the course of your journey. There is finally something worth living for. Something to keep you going. Something that you can proudly call the 'light of your life'. Something you can treasure for eternity.

And now, nothing can disrupt your happiness on having found your sole purpose and destination. Nothing can stop you from reaching your goal. Nothing can come in your way.

(The above can refer to a lot of things.. I would be interested to know what the readers think I am talking about? Or what came to your mind while you were reading it?)

Take it or Not...???

2005-05-30T18:50:00.000+04:00

The fifteen dirhams was just lying there on the counter. Noone was looking at it. And noone had noticed its existence. The McDonald’s staff was too busy with the customers to realize that it was un-attended to. Me and my friend just looked at it. Then looked around us to see who it belonged to. Noone was interested. Then we look at each other. She suggested how easy it would be to reach for it. I said yeaaa its easy. Just reach over and pretend it belongs to you. Or maybe we can place this hundred dirham note over it and pull all the notes back together. Noone would know. Or maybe we can claim the money to belong to us and place our order, since we haven’t ordered yet. The money was drawing us towards itself. Our eyes moved in a fixed pattern - the money, the customers, the staff, then each other. It was just enough for a whole meal..

And then suddenly all attention turns to the fifteen dirhams on the counter. It was confused to belong to another guy who was ordering, and he said it wasn’t his. Now the lady at the counter is completely puzzled. Where did the money come from? She looked at me, and I said it was already there on the counter. She said Ohhh okay.

She paid the guy his change (excluding the fifteen on the counter). Then she waved the fifteen dirhams at us and asked, what was your order ma’am? Me and my friend exchanged glances again. Glances that said, what shall we say?

Both of us together went, it was there when we got here. We have no clue who it belongs to. It was on the counter when we got here, not our money. And then she said Ahh okay. She kept the money aside until the owner of it showed up later.

What a relief that there was an owner for it...else, what a waste of money...lol..

Why I Hate Summer....

2005-05-24T17:01:00.000+04:00

The coming of summer means more sweat-drenched clothes, and more stinky people around you. Also, more money spent on deodrants, which is one of the reasons why people tend to go bankrupt.

All girls dread the coming of summer. Their poor sensitive skin. One second of sunshine, and next thing you know, they're all crying about the rash, sunburns, tans, and how some people start merging into the black night sky more now. Again, rush to get more sun-screen lotions. Bankrupt again?

Affecting both guys and girls equally, however causing chaos more-so in the minds of girls is what happens to the face. Oily skin is feared by all. Then there come the pimples sprouting as though it were the season. The pain that it causes is still tolerable. But what about the ugly marks they leave behind? Hence, the reason for deep cleansers, toners and moisturizers. Should I say 'bankrupt'?

Then of course, there is one more reason to add to the list of 'why I have become more lazier than ever before'. Its so hot outside that the rubber slippers have melted and become squishy. And so prefer the nice, comfy and cooler 'indoors'. Reason why malls are more crowded in summer?

Not to mention the fact that its harder to turn the steering wheel while driving back home for lunch, without sustaining a few burn marks. Although it is during summer that more petrol seems to be used up. Why is that so, you may ask? The reason is simple. Preferance to drive to the shope that is a 2 minute walk away, due to the heat. Also, preferance to stay inside the car longer with the AC turned to 'full' rather than open the door and face the gush of hot air.

Which reminds me of how much 'extra' electricity gets used up during summer beacuse the AC in all the rooms is running all day. People would much rather pay the extra bill than walk into a hot room.

This probably isnt much of a problem, but the fact that I am more thirstier in summer is annoying. I carry a small water-bottle to class, and so I have to keep re-filling it every now and then.

Finally, I would like to comment on the fact that people prefer to wear less clothes during summer. Its pretty obvious why. But its not a very pleasant sight to the passer-bys.

The Sick and Deceased...

2005-05-22T20:46:00.000+04:00

Couple of fast points.. backed up by compressed Hadith..

It is sunnah to visit a Muslim Brother or Sister who is ill..
Hadith:
When a Muslim visits a Muslim brother who is ailing, he remains among the Khufrah (fruits) of Paradise till he returns from his visit. - Muslim
When a Muslim visits an ailing Muslim in the morning, seventy thousand angels invoke blessings for him till the evening. If he visits in th evening, sevety thousand angels invoke blessings for him until morning. And he is alloted an orchard of fruit trees in Paradise - Tirmizi (weak Hadith)

Upon receiving news of misfortune.. or when misfortune has befallen oneself, one must say the following..
"Inna Lillahe Wa Inna Ilaihe Raje`oon" (To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return)
followed by this supplication..
"O Allah! Make good the loss in my misfortune (make recompense) and grant me something better than that which I have lost."
- Muslim

Regarding shedding tears or crying over news of someone's death or any other misfortune..
"Listen! Allah does not punish for shedding tears of grief of the heart, but punishes or forgives the utterance of this." Pointing to his(saw) tongue.
- Bukhari and Muslim

It sunnah and highly recommended to join in funeral prayers and processions. However, women were not allowed to accompany funeral processions. Also a Hadith (Bukhari and Muslim) says that this prohibiton was not strictly enforced.
In fact it was said, the larger the gathering, the better. "If as many as hundered Muslims join in funeral prayer for a person and all of them pray to Allah for his salvation, thier recommendation would be granted." - Muslim

It is highly recommended to bury the dead as soon as possible.
"Be quick in burial of the coffin. If he is virtuous and good, hurry him to good. If otherwise, lay down evil from your necks." - Bukhari and Muslim
However, it is permissible to delay the burial in case of sudden death to ascertain the cause of death.

Also, it is important that the close relatives of the dead pay off his debts..
"The soul of a deceased beleiver remins suspended (from his entry into heaven) till payment of his debt." - Tirmizi (weak Hadith)

Also, there are 3 things that can benefit a person after his death..
"After death of a person, his actions stop, save 3 things.. one being continuos charity, second - knowledge that provides some sort of benefit, and third - a virtuos son who prays for him."

Also, be good to the people around you.. here is why..
"Hazrat Umar(ra) said: Prophet(saw) said: Allah will admit a Muslim into heaven whose good deeds are affirmed by four people. When asked about 3 people, he said : even 3 people. When asked about 2 people, he said: even 2 people. He was not asked about 1 person."

Regarding children who die before puberty..
"A Muslim whose 3 children died before puberty will enter paradise by the grace of his children. The children shall be like a shield for the mother from Hell fire. And the fire of hell shall not touch this Muslim." - Muslim

Too Late????

2005-05-18T20:58:00.000+04:00

Has it ever happened to you that a certain incident makes your life flash within seconds before your eyes? And you realize how little you have achieved? Well, it 'just' happened. I shall refrain from mentioning the exact incident. But it was pretty much what usually happens. The disheartening news of someone's death. Millions die everyday, yet it does not affect our lives. However, when we hear of the passing away of someone we know, we talk to everyday, we smile at, we look upto, we see everyday... the case is different, isnt it? The thought that you will never see that face again, you will never hear that voice again, you will never see that smile again...is scary? disturbing? Indeed it is. Makes us realize how little value there is for all that we do in this world. If I die tomorrow, this post I am writing is of little value to me. 'Literally' of no value actually. I shall not benefit from it.
I realize how little time I have. In fact I might have no time. My pleading shall not stop the angel of death from pulling my soul away from my body, because my time is up.
Every step that you take, take it with fear. With the fear of your time being up.
May Allah Guide Us All. May We All Be Guided By His Light. Ameen.

Random Thoughts..

2005-05-15T16:48:00.000+04:00

Had an extremely terrible viva today. One like I havent had ever before. I felt like an idiot. Or more so Dr Kasturi made me feel like one. She is so lost, she doesnt know what she herself is saying and neither does she have any clue what I am saying. You have to repeat the same thing 7 times before she gets it. She made me repeat my history to her 3 times and she still forgets what i said and keeps thinking that I missed stuff in between. Urrrghhh!

Success - What is it really?

2005-05-14T20:35:00.000+04:00

Again in today's lecture Tahir Khalid, he asked the audience "What is success according to you? When I ask you to name a few successful people, who is the first person that comes to your mind?". After having said this, he pointed to one of the guys sitting in the audience. The guy said "Bill Gates!". Tahir laughed. "Did you all hear that? He said Bill Gates. I dont blame any of you. It is how you have been taught and you have been made to beleive. You have been made to believe that if you have earned both money and fame in this world, you are successful."

Unfortunately, and sadly this is very true. Each one of us is made to beleive that success lies in the hands of those people who have managed to make money and fame. Why do we beleive so? Is it really success?

We fail to realize our true purpose of existance, when we try to reach for these meanings in life. However, it is also true to understand that one cannot do without these worldly gains. One cannot survive without them.

The secret to true success is to be able to balance the two. Live your true purpose (serve Allah) and also work for your selves.

Its not very easy to reach it, its not very hard either. The only tool that is necessary is the 'Will'.

Little Things That Dont Matter?

2005-05-14T20:14:00.000+04:00

Today we had a talk by Tahir Khalid. He is a pretty nice guy. His concepts are nice and most of his answers are very stead-fast but at the same time witty. Its always nice to have a combination of seriousness and a good sense of humor combined together.

Something he said today, I found extremely touchy and new. Something I havent heard from many. He had his 2 and a half year old son with him when he came to give the talk. He said the reason was, that he wanted to his son to experience all these different kind of environments. He also said that he wanted his son to remember all the environments that his dad had been in, and experience all the work that his dad was doing. He also said that his son is probably too young to remember all of it. But he will definetely remember some part of it.

And I thought that was very sweet. The way he was thinking was very sweet. MashaAllah. that kid will grow up to be just as successful or even more than his dad. InshaAllah. The kid was extremely adorable.

Random Thoughts...

2005-05-12T21:58:00.000+04:00

aaahhhh... the releif after exams are over. But the problem is, that exams always manage to spoil my sleep. I tried making up for my lost sleep. But in vain. *sad* My head feels heavy, my eyes feel like they've been over-worked and I'm hungry 24/7, not to mention thirsty. And also, I'm never in a mood to go back to sleep, rather I need to watch a movie. However, I dont think we have any more movies. I think its time to start on the 'begging' again. hehe. Oh well, its time for me to leave anyways.

Western Teenage Girl - Why do I wear Hijab?

2005-05-10T16:47:00.000+04:00

An insightful and personal account of why a Western teenage girl would reject the 'wonders' of fashion, and want to cover herself in the hijab (veil).

I probably do not fit into the preconceived notion of a “rebel”. I have no visible tattoos and minimal piercing. I do not possess a leather jacket. In fact, when most people look at me, their first thought usually is something along the lines of “oppressed female”. The brave individuals who have mustered the courage to ask me about the way I dress usually have questions like: “Do your parents make you wear that?” or “Don’t you find that really unfair?”

A while back, a couple of girls in Montreal were kicked out of school for dressing like I do. It seems strange that a little piece of cloth would make for such a controversy. Perhaps the fear is that I am harboring an Uzi machine gun underneath it! Of course, the issue at hand is more than a mere piece of cloth. I am a Muslim woman who, like millions of other Muslim women across the globe, chooses to wear a hijab. And the concept of the hijab, contrary to popular opinion, is actually one of the most fundamental aspects of female empowerment. When I cover myself, I make it virtually impossible for people to judge me according to the way I look. I cannot be categorized because of my attractiveness or lack thereof. Compare this to life in today’s society: We are constantly sizing one another up on the basis of our clothing, jewelry, hair and makeup. What kind of depth can there be in a world like this?

Yes, I have a body, a physical manifestation upon this Earth. But it is the vessel of an intelligent mind and a strong spirit. It is not for the beholder to leer at or to use in advertisements to sell everything from beer to cars. Because of the superficiality of the world in which we live, external appearances are so stressed that the value of the individual counts for almost nothing. It is a myth that women in today’s society are liberated. What kind of freedom can there be when a woman cannot walk down the street without every aspect of her physical self being “checked out”? When I wear the hijab I feel safe from all of this. I can rest assured that no one is looking at me and making assumptions about my character from the length of my skirt. There is a barrier between me and those who would exploit me.

I am first and foremost a human being, one of the saddest truths of our time is the question of the beauty myth and female self-image. Reading popular teenage magazines, you can instantly find out what kind of body image is “in” or “out” . And if you have the “wrong” body type, well, then, you’re just going to change it, aren’t you? After all, there is no way you can be overweight and still be beautiful. Look at any advertisement. Is a woman being used to sell the product? How old is she? How attractive is she? What is she wearing? More often than not, that woman will be no older than her early 20s, taller, slimmer, and more attractive than average, and dressed in skimpy clothing. Why do we allow ourselves to be manipulated like this? Whether the 90s woman wishes to believe it or not, she is being forced into a mould. She is being coerced into selling herself, into compromising herself. This is why we have 13-year-old girls sticking their fingers down their throats to vomit and overweight adolescents hanging themselves.

When people ask me if I feel oppressed, I can honestly say no. I made this decision of my own free will. I like the fact that I am taking control of the way other people perceive me. I enjoy the fact that I don’t give anyone anything to look at and that I have released myself from the bondage of the swinging pendulum of the fashion industry and other institutions that exploit females. My body is my own business. Nobody can tell me how I should look or whether or not I am beautiful. I know that there is more to me than that. I am also able to say no comfortably when people ask me if I feel as if my sexuality is being repressed. I have taken control of my sexuality. I am thankful I will never have to suffer the fate of trying to lose / gain weight or trying to find the exact lipstick shade that will go with my skin color. I have made choices about what my priorities are and these are not among them.

So next time you see me, don’t look at me sympathetically. I am not under duress or a male-worshiping female captive from those barbarous Arab deserts. I’ve been liberated

Homeopathy-not a good alternative?

2005-05-07T18:16:00.000+04:00

Me and 2 of my friends had a 'huge' discussion about whether or not homeopathy is actually effective. Me and 1 of my friends say "yes, homeopathy is indeed very effective.".... whereas the 3rd one amongst us said "no, homepathy doesnt work at all."
I personally believe that homeopathy is a relatively 'old' method of treatment, however, very little research was done in this field. Which is why I would label it as a still 'emerging' branch of medicine. I have seen several cases being treated through homeopathic medications, when allopathy failed.
My friend said "I can take a culture plate and a drop of allopathic medication can kill the bacteria on the plate. Can you do the same with homeopathic medications and prove its effectiveness to me?"
Allopathy and homeopathy work in 2 different ways. And I recently found out that they have opposite effects.

Allopathy works by opposing the disease. That is, it tries to counteract the disease. For example, in case of allergy, it acts by suppressing the immune system.
Homeopathy works by inducing the similar effect as that of the disease. I am not very sure myself how exactly it works. But supposedly the homeopathic medicines are all shook in a special manner. The particles gain kinetic energy and this energy coincides with that of the body tissues. This then induces the same effect that the disease produces. Homeopathy believes that anything that causes disease in itself has a cure. That is, the poison that affected you, can also cure you, with certain manipulations.

Its weird, but it works. Not everything is curable by homeopathy (just like not everything is curable by allopathy). But even then, some of the disease that have been declared in-curable by doctors has been cured by homeopathy.

Also homeopathy side-effects are minimal.

Then again, it is in the end a matter of choice. Some people totally refuse to believe in homeopathy (be it a life and death situation even!). Whereas some live only on homeopathic medicines.

Population Explosion???

2005-05-07T18:08:00.000+04:00

On tuesday alone, I saw 6 deliveries and I had to 'stop' attending to the rest because I had some other urgent work to do. While I was leaving, there were 4 more ready for labor. Also there were another 4 in the first stage. I had never seen so many of them ready at the same time (mashaAllah). And the best part? All of them happen to be boys. *shock*. Of all the 20 or so deliveries that I have seen only 2 of them were girls. That is definetely not coincidence.
Today, again there were 4 ladies in labor. woa! That is definetely a 'lot'. I guess the fact that the government hospitals raised the charges is in favor for the growth of our hospital. *cheers*

What's real? And what isnt?

2005-04-29T20:20:00.000+04:00

(something i wrote in my free time.. when i was bored.. although most of the idea came from a book that i read..)
How can you tell what is real and what is not? How do you know that the words you are reading now are real? I am sure that for most of us - we are 100% sure of what is real around us and what is not. I used to think so too. Until I read an article that changed my views.

Before we try to make sense of all this, let’s try to define ‘reality’. Reality is anything that is real (a very simple definition). Now what is ‘real’? You can refer to anything as real if it exists. That means that if you can prove that something exists then you can prove that it is real.

Science teaches us that everything in the universe exists in one of three forms of matter – either solid, liquid or gas form. Again, we know that matter is made of atoms and molecules. Atoms and molecules are made of electrons, protons and neutrons. What are electrons, protons and neutrons made of? No idea. I don’t think anyone has gone that far yet. They are simply defined as tiny particles with charges.

Here we are, at a point where I can say that electrons, protons and neutrons don’t exist and you can’t disprove me. Tracing this backward, if they don’t exist, matter doesn’t exist and neither does anything else in the universe. Hence, nothing really exists.

Now I will consider another side of this argument. Some of you can say that electrons, protons and neutrons do exist because scientists have seen them. So allow me to take you into the art of vision.

When you look at something, you can see it. But ‘how’ are you seeing it? Light falls on the object and then into your eyes and on your retina. The light is converted into electrical signals that are sent through your nerve and all the way upto your brain. And it is actually the image that your brain creates inside your head using chemicals and stuff that you see. So basically you see objects inside a dark dark corner of your brain inside your skull.

Now, to be sure that you are seeing the right image inside your head, we have to assume that you are a perfect human being with no defects in your nerves and with no mental problems. This is impossible. Have you done tests? And if you have, did you ask your doctor how accurate it is? And what if your doctor is not mentally stable himself? This is where the ‘big’ question mark appears.

You could be imagining everything around you. You could be hallucinating right now. Today morning when you woke up and looked in the mirror, what if you imagined your own image in the mirror. That means you have no idea what you look like. In fact, it is possible that you have no idea what anything looks like. And if you argue that you and your friend see the same thing, so it should be right. How can you prove to me that you and your friend are totally fit and perfect? Also, I would say that it is impossible to prove that the world is dominated by fools and idiots and that the people locked up in the mental hospitals are the real sane ones. Think about it!!

Death Knocking at Your Door

2005-04-29T20:19:00.000+04:00

Thinking about death can be a very uncomfortable thought to many. So I won’t take it too far. Basically, the awareness should be there.

Will death visit you today or tomorrow? Or next week? Or next year? Or next decade? We have no clue what so ever. Nobody can tell you that. So what can you do about it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. (a generalized answer)

However, I believe that there is a lot that we can do. Our aim is not to die. Our aim is to live. Death has its duty and it shall do it. We have our duties and we should do it too. We should make the best of our lives before it is time to say goodbye.

“Live life to its fullest.”

Many a people mistake me when I say that. When I say ‘fullest’ I don’t mean that it’s the license to trash your life. Living a full life means to finish doing whatever you were meant to do in the short time that you have.

This lesson, ‘that I should constantly remind myself of my lack of time’, was taught to me by a very special friend of mine. He didn’t mean to, but he did accidentally. I wish I could thank him for that, but time did not permit.

I realized that life is very precious. It is like a string. A very thin string. This string is constantly being pulled at, every second of our life. When the string is fully stretched, our time is up, because then the string breaks. Some of us have longer strings than others. But that’s destiny. And that’s another story that will be told another time. Just remember to be grateful for every second that you breathe, for every second that you can see, you can hear, you are being loved, you are being blessed…..and many many treasures so forth.

Solitary Graves

2005-04-29T18:49:00.000+04:00

The beauty of the night sky entrapped me in itself without my knowledge. The emptiness, the silence and the calmness was overwhelming. It seemed as though 'nothing' could ever disrupt this heavenly moment. There was not a sound to be heard, nor any sense of movement anywhere. It was simply perfect. My eyes tried best to entrap all of it, in case this moment never returns.

But my heart was not in agreement. It was pumping hard, and fast like nothing could make it stop. My head was full of thoughts, images, questions, problems and other normal everyday things.

This is what made me wonder how in the end, we are always on our own. No matter how many troubles and problems we have, the rest of the worls always moves on. They never stop for you.

Millions of people died in the Tsunami, couple of days ago. But it did not change anything. Perhaps, for a moment we all prayed for them and for ouselves never to be in a similar situation. But, what happens after that? We go back to our daily chores. We continue to do what we do everyday. And life moves on....

Many souls passed away that day. Be it of an old man who wakes everyday knowing his end is near. Or a young business man who awoke with many new dreams to fulfill. Or perhaps a mother who woke to a dream, that her son would grow up to be a successful lawyer. Or a pregnant woman everyday, trying to create an image of her unborn child. Or a little girl telling her daddy that she wants to fly to the moon someday. Or an infant awaiting its next feed. It could have been any one of us there!

Alas, none of them knew that their end was meant to be. None of them knew that all their dreams were to be washed away by waves taller than buildings, carrying their lives away too, as it sweeps down on them.

Who was there to save them? Who can give them company anymore? None can, nor shall. They lie in their graves by themselves. Not their educational degrees, nor their wealth, nor people at highest position, nor any other worldly gain can save them now. Only their deeds go down with them. Only their acts speak for them. Were they prepared? Did they earn enough deeds and acts to take down with them? We shall never know. Are we prepared to go down today? Are you prepared? Ask yourself everyday before you climb into bed. What did you do today? And what are you going to do tomorrow? And how you can change your destiny? What can you do to change your destiny?