Kiran's views on life

Comeback

2010-09-14T10:09:00.001+05:30

It's a long time since I blogged. I was carrying vish when I blogged last. And these two years, it is quite a learning experience. Watching the kid grow and the experience of being a first time mother, and then all the responsibilities as a mother, wife and a working lady accompanied by the old role of daughter and sister , well it's different. Now, thanks to my smartphone, am able to pursue many activities and also perform my duties well. Thanks to technology, we can do many things.

Who is the Author with a tone of Anti India?????

2008-11-08T04:02:00.000+05:30

No permanent babus for the US president to deal with - Yahoo! India News: "No permanent babus for the US president to deal with

Fri, Nov 7 11:05 AM

Washington, Nov.7 (ANI): Imagine not inheriting a permanent bureaucracy. Freedom to bring in your own babus. It is every Indian politician's dream. Here in 'the land of the free', it is a privilege that the President enjoys. He is not encumbered with a permanent bureaucracy. So on January 20th, when President elect Barack Obama becomes President Obama, he will bring with him a whole new team."

The above is an extract of an article that I came across on Indian Portal of Yahoo.

I am really surprised at the Anti-Indian tone in the article. Looks like the Author does not have enough knowledge of the happenings, rather, would like to feign so.

India is one of the Bureaucratic countries with lot of policies, and has made a place for itself in the world, with its Bureaucracy and policies. Its true that there are lot of visible differences in the governing. How about the invisible similarities? And for those people who say that the system is better here in USA, I would say that the life is much better in India.

You have many freedoms and there are no bills that watch the steps of an individual. While people who commit crimes cannot escape here, there are many innocent people who cannot escape the eyes of non-innocent, using the same technology. An identity of the person is based on the records stored in a computer, and if they are lost, the identity is lost. The bright side here is that, if you mind your business, take care and get into a good job, the life here is peaceful and serene. You can spend vacations at good places making use of deals, visit India with pomp and grandeur, thanks to the difference in Monetary conversion.

There are many things that are better in India, and it would be better if these columnists highlight the good things of India. I would say that every country has its good and bad, just like every individual has both the characteristics imbibed in them. It all depends on the outlook, and media should be playing a positive role on this, instead of making things hard.

Literary interest of Sri Sutti Veerabhadrarao Garu

2008-06-13T20:41:00.003+05:30

Well, I wanted to complete this post in Telugu, but could not type so fast.

Anyway, one of the readers of my earlier blog post, Girish, commented about the high literary words used in his dialects.

That prompted me to give this post.

Uncle has been an avid reader of various literary works. He has a great collection of telugu literary works, and many plays. I remember, as a child, after his demise, when I picked up reading high literary works, I used to read as many books as I can during the holiday visits I made. Sometimes, I used to get lost in those works that I used to get scoldings from my brother for missing breakfast and lunch :) I still scan thorough the collection to find books that missed my eyes.

Coming back, yes, he does have a great interest in Telugu literature and the Telugu language. He spent all those years in Chennai without having to speak Tamil most of the times. His films are different from the Stage plays and the Radio plays he had enacted.

His voice was so beautiful and youthful, that anyone who listened to him in films will not recognise him. Silamurali, his play for AIR, Vijayawada is my all time favourite and I love to listen to it everytime.

His Son and Daughter are planning to come up with a website, and working on that. So many things about him, but reserving them for the website. And for those who are not aware, there is a book on him and Velu, co-authored by them, a comedy play sort of book. More about it next time.

Long long time....

2008-03-18T06:44:00.004+05:30

It has been a very long time since I posted here. Last was during my uncle's shashtyabda poorthi celebrations. So many events happened after that.

We recently celebrated our first marriage anniversary. when I look back, I realise that there has been a major change in this year. Change seems to be sticking with me, becoming my fav blog topic. This time, the change came in persona, the lifestyle, the surroundings. In single word, the world around me has changed. Good or bad, no one knows, but I am going ahead with the thought that its for good.

When I announced my engagement, Madhav, my ex-boss, was telling me that I would learn to be patient. How true he is!!! And sometime back, when Ramesh asked me if I am ready to travel even after marriage, I said yes. He responded back saying that life is not the same after marriage. How true again. Its not the same, and I can no longer go around taking decisions on my own. My decisions are going to affect others now, and thats a matter I need to take care. Gone are the days of decision making that suits me alone.

There was a time when talking to Dad was a dreaded thing, now, we discuss many things like friends. There was a time when I used to irritate Mom with all my nakras. Now, I get them back thru my dear hubby. Its my Parents time to laugh and enjoy at my plight of trying to adjust to these changes. But, again, thanks to them and Bala, I was able to get adjusted quickly. Things were bit tough for both of us initially, as we were used to staying alone. Now, its a different life.

I guess all married couples say the same. A good friend of mine was telling me that surviving the first year of marriage is tough and the next challenge comes at 5 years. And after that, if there are issues, then, we had been acting all through these years. I feel its right. You learn a lot in the first year and then more in the coming years.

Thats all for now, will be catching up with blogging soon.....

Sutti Veerabhadra Rao - 60th Birth Anniversary and 20th Death Anniversary

2007-06-23T13:08:00.000+05:30

Articles : Movie Retrospect : naalugu stambhaalaaTa - 1982 : "One sad thing is that I worked with sutti Veerabhadra Rao gaaru for his first and last films. In fact, he did the last shooting with me for his last film! (choopulu kalasina SubhavELa). I think that the title song of the movie is the only duet between two males in the whole film history. He's a very nice person. ...Today, if I look back, I am really grateful to Navata Krishnam Raju gaaru, my guruvu gaaru who gave me a wonderful debut film, and Veerabhadra Rao gaaru with whom I acted in several memorable movies; all these have passed away now."

The above is an excerpt from an interview given by Naresh on Sri. Sutti Veerabhadra Rao. Famous as Sutti Janta, Sri Veerabhadra Rao hails from Vijayawada, worked in AIR, Vijayawada and was a theatre artist before he forayed into the films through Jandhyala's Nalugusthambalata. Well, though Nalaugusthambalata is said to be his first hit film.

His BirthAnniversary falls on 30th of June, and incidentally, in 1988, it was on the same day that he demised, the day of his birth. This year, its his 60th birth anniversary and 20th Death anniversary. Being his neice from his wife's side, I had a great time with him. I remember him as an uncle who used to take a lot of care for us the kids. He is a loving person, yet, as a kid, I was scared of him, for he used to scold me for my mischiefs.

The news of his demise was sudden and unexpected, and he left his family of two kids and wife behind, to survive in this world on their own. Through his blessings and God's blessings, they are well settled now, in their lives.

When Dad told me that Akka and Anna are arranging for the celebration of uncle's birth anniversary at Vijayawada, a place where he spent more than half of his life, I recollected those old memories. And thought of putting them here.

There are many great artists in this land and few could rise to fame, and of them, few could enjoy it. he is among the one who could rise to fame but could not enjoy it. He left this world for ever in 1988, but, he was there with us guiding usat every step and taking care of us, reminding us that he is watching us. He is still with us, watching us, doing something in his memory. He is one of my great uncles, one who could never be erased out of memory.

Britain's Blair says he is resigning - Yahoo! News

2007-05-10T21:28:00.000+05:30

Britain's Blair says he is resigning - Yahoo! News: "'When I first started in politics, I wanted to please everyone,' Blair said during a tour of the Middle East in December. 'After a time I learned that you can't please everyone, and you learn that the best thing is to do what you think is right and everyone can make their judgment.'"
I had been a fan for Blair for a long time. The year he became the Prime Minister of Britain, many a thing happened. Mother Teressa has reached the abode of Almighty, Pricess Diana left the world in a tragic accident that became a major controversy for the Royal Family, and many others. I remember these three cos, I always wanted to meet Mother and spend some time with her. I loved Pricess Diana for what she is. And then the Prime Minister, it was a big news. The other Prime Minsiter of Britain whom I remember and admired a lot is Margaret Thatcher. The news headline that Blair is resigning has caught my eyes instantly. And then the words I had mentioned here.

He might have been wrong in the eyes of public by sending troops to Iraq. Its a mistake even in my view. But, then, standing for what you believe in to be right and doing what you think is right, rather than doing things to please others is something that I admire. Iraq could have been avoided from the current day situation had it been handled differently. But, thats History and history should not be repeated atleast in issues of these sort. Making mistakes is the nature of humans and if we can find a human in the world who never does a mistake, then its a miracle. Cos, even Gods do mistakes.

Well, when Mr.Blair became a PM, I was stepping into the life. The life that comes after completing the basic education. I learnt a lot in life in the past decade. I used to do so many things just to please others. Then, I learnt many a lesson from the blows I got by trying to please everyone. Luckily, I got a friend, a wellwisher, a colleague, and a manager, all in the smae person, who advised me to do things only when I think its right. Then, I also had another manager who told me that doing things that make me happy is the best than doing things for others. Following their advices, I am a different person today.

Power of Love

2007-04-20T13:10:00.000+05:30

Love is blind say many. Not sure if its true. But, the power of love is tremendous. Its makes u do those tasks willingly, which u normally hate. it makes the world around u so beautiful. Time flies away quickly. You forget everyone and everything around you.

Suddenly, one fine day u realise that you have beendoing things differently. You look at the world around you only to find that there are many changes which went unnoticed, which would not have been the case earlier. You realise that you missed on some important events and that world is not the same anymore

Still, you love to remain the same person that you have been after falling in love. You cannot stop urself from doing certain things, and world is never the same now. Its a different one. Life remains beautiful.

Women in the world today

2007-04-20T12:56:00.000+05:30

Going through the news, I realised that if Democrats win the elections, as per the current standings, it could be either Senator Hillary Clinton or Senator Barack OBama who win the elections. If either wins, its gonna be a history. USA, in its more than 400 years of existence, has never had a woman as a President. Nor an African American as a president. We need to see the results for identifying the candidate from Democrats.

In the mean time, I was curious to know on how many women are there in the senate. I was surprised to see that its 16 out of 100 seats. 16% is too less, thats what I thought. Out of curiosity, I checked the count for Indian parliament. I was astonished to find that its 42 out of 542. less than 10% and greater than 8%.

One thing is sure, the representation of women in the Government is less everywhere in the world. one more thing I identified is that, the issues are same for women across the world, the same fears, the same sort of prejudices, etc.

Not sure when this would change. THere is no point in having some rallies or movements when something goes wrong. I feel that its the basic attitude that should change, for both men and women.

Many speak of independence. I would quote Stephan R Covey in his book "7 habits of the highly successful people" and say that interdependence is more important and plays a major role. WE, men and women are interdependent on each other and the day we realise it and act accordingly, some issues could be resolved immediately. these are my thoughtts

Fun of working with my org

2007-02-20T19:47:00.000+05:30

I really enjoy my work place and the thought that I may have to leave it soon is like making me dull.

I happen to be one of the first few employees, took an active part in many activities and still taking. I enjoyed and enjoy each end every moment here. I love the freedom I get to do the work I love to do and enjoy more. I love the attention the management pays for each employee and the support they give for us, in professional and personal things. They make sure that we have a comfortable personal life so that we can work well at office.

and women in general, they do enjoy the benefits of working from home when required, and all support is given to them when it is crucial for them. Most important, when they are married.

Who does not love the company that pays personal attention and shows intrest on your growth and personal happiness? But, there is a catch here, you should be a performing person to enjoy these. Yep, we perform, keep the management happy and they keep us happy.

one more thing is that we have the immense satisfaction of shaping the future and growth of a company. We have a part to play in many activities and our suggestions are valued.

all these good things, they make me feel like I am going away from my family. This became my family in the last few years I had been here. We shared all the moments, good and bad, developed the bonding, and a huge raport. I do call up some of our management guys on their mobile, even our COO, when I feel like talking to them.

I am really happy that I am here. When I joined in 2004, I was 26th employee and 18th IT employee. Today, we have 500+ Work force. And am happy to be part of it and having a taken the right decision to relocate to Chennai on the night I got the call for interview from Chennai. Aryagowda road. ...

Chennai and Me - 1

2007-02-20T19:37:00.000+05:30

First time I visited chennai was in 1985 I think, when I was doing my 4th standard.

I was overawed and and also confused on seeing huge roads, the big flyovers (Gemini and Kodambakkam), the parks, etc.

We got down at Central, and then reached Mambalam busstand (TNagar) to go to my aunt's house. they were put up near to the bus stand and we got lost. Cos, dad cannot speak Tamil and no one spoke any other language here.

My maternal aunt was at Kodambakkam and uncle as a film actor. He is no more now. But, then, he was a popular actor. There were always some one at home when he was at home.

We made this trip to Chennai as a part of the trip that we make to different places once in 4 years. We visited Snake park, some temples, and then, headed to Bangalore, to another aunt's place, from where we headed to Mysore. That was a different story at Mysore.

But, this first trip has still some memories, like the smell of the fish that comes when u get down at Central (you can still get it, but only on platform 2 now :-) ), the huge roads, the big trees, the magnificient Gemini flyover with different ways, endless roads, the vast mount road and the old buildings, and then, the famous sundalu from marina beach.

Many of them are gone now, or changed. But, the initial memories have not yet faded :-)

I made many trips later, and am now at Chennai. different experiences in each trip and I will note them here, sooner or later...

Changes in personal life

2007-02-20T19:26:00.000+05:30

Life has been pretty hectic these days... for a change, not work. Getting married and relocating, I have to take care of lot of activities on personal front and also take care of some of the things related to marriage.

Its tough initially managing all these, but, now, i am getting used to that. These changes in personal life that are going to happen soon had stopped me from updating my blogs frequently. I guess that it may not happen till I get married.

Something weird early in the morning

2007-01-03T17:20:00.000+05:30

I could not sleep for a long time. The temp is around 0c outside and heaters are not proving to be effective for me. I thought to get up and work , switching on the local fm radio for Boston.

Well, suddenly a call comes in and a lady informs that an unemployed person with a cell phone has been picked by the dump pick truck. The guy was taken by mistake and finally comes out of the dump box thanks to the cops.

All this, happening early in the morning between 5:00am and 7:00am

School Days - III

2006-12-27T16:43:00.000+05:30

Thanks to DVD, I was able to travel with out issues, he provided a two wheeler for the day.

I went to school straight and met Sister Josy there. I also met Hymavathy teacher and Padmini teacher.

I met some students from Class X, and spoke with them. I learnt from Sister Josy that Santosh, the watch man, and Adam, the keeper for Dogs and pets, have died. Deshpathi sir has retired. Sister Lancy died two years back with Kidney failure. One of the Daisy sisters is at Papua New Guinea, Sister Daisy Jacob. And the other at Vizag.

Sundari teacher is no longer at School, same with Francilla teacher and Shanthi teacher. Kamala teacher and Hemasundari teacher (Hindi) are still there.

Ramarao sir has baldened and Anjaneyulu sir lost his teeth. I also met Kamala's sister, who is working as a teacher there. LEarnt from her that Kamala is working at Mandavelli as a teacher, married to another teacher and has a son. I met Neeraja who is working as a teacher at Avanigadda. She recently lost her younger brother and staying with her second sister and aunt. She lost her parents couple of years back, one after another, and is still unmarried.

Meeting all these people was good. I then met DVD, Amarnadh and Poorna. Meeting all these people in a day, sharing some memories and then returning back home with a pleasant and happyy mind, that was the intention, well acheived.

School Days - II

2006-12-18T19:52:00.000+05:30

One day, I had this urge to talk to some one from the teaching fraternity and checked the number for school on internet. it was past 9:00pm in India then, I still called one number. Then another number.

I got response from the second number, through which i was able to get in touch with Sr.Josy, the new HM.

After talking to her, and sharing some details about the teachers, I fekt that I should visit the place. I told her that I would be coming on Monday, the following, as I had planned to visit VJA already.

I called DVD, my classmate from school and informed him the same. I also requested him to arrange a vehicle, a two wheeler, so that I can travel without any problem in MTM.

I informed my parents too about the same. Dad said that I can travel, after completing some bank work on Monday.

Come Monday morning, and I was in double thoughts, should I or should I not travel. Earlier, I missed the marriages of a couple of classmates in the same manner.

I see a missed call from MTM code and find that DVD called me to inform me of the vehicle and also check when I am starting. I told him I will start after the work around 11, and I wanted to stick to that.

So, I complete the work, go the Busstand and board the Bus to MTM. I was lucky to get a Non-Stop just before it started to leave the bay.

to be continuted...

Life

2006-12-18T19:48:00.000+05:30

Surprises and shocks
Pleasant memories
Forgettable events
Cherishing moments
Caring family
Loving friends
Hating people
Memorable minutes
Unexpected turns
Twists that keep changing
Loops that never end
Relationships that last for ever
This is life

My Thoughts

2006-12-18T17:51:00.000+05:30

A thought comes my way
Asking me my accomplishments
Proding into my life
Find that there are none

Another thought comes my way
Asking me about my well wishers
A check at my friends list
I find there are many

Yet another thought comes my way
Reminds me of my goals
One is acheived I answer it
Another is to be acheived I tell it

School Days - 1

2006-12-13T16:48:00.000+05:30

It is 14 years since I came out of my school and 15th year is going on. I am not an active person then, as I am now. Still, I consider that I am active enough.

We were two sections, nearly 65 each, 4 groups, teasings, fights, arguments, fun, everything, it was part and parcel of life then.

After school, I lost touch with many. I wanted to get in touch with them again, and thanks to net, I am able to. Its an old story now.

We formed a group, and slowly, one by one, the class in getting in touch with each other.

Well, some thing happened in the past few days. The rest of the series will cover what has happened on each day.

Li Da's Blog

2006-11-28T14:48:00.000+05:30

This is my excolleague and good friend's blog on Blogspot. Looks like he took to blogging after moving to Bangalore.

Li Da stands for Lionel David, and he is one of my good friends. It was fun when he wa with us, cos, we used to fight almost every other day, and at the same time, support when required. I am not sure if he would agree with this.

He got a good opprtunity and he moved ahead for good :-)

Good Luck buddy

What’s the Secret to Your Success?

2006-11-17T21:46:00.000+05:30

This is an article I came across on internet. This speaks of the responsiveness at work and its effect on our career. Good advice for aspiring leaders :-)

Thanks Mr.Michael Hyatt, for sharing your experience and the valuable tips

New blogger settings

2006-11-17T17:55:00.000+05:30

Yep, my blogs here are configured using the new settings from beta version and they are pretty cool. I experimented a lot on this and here is the blog that u see as a result of those experiments

Advantages of working in an upcoming startup

2006-11-17T17:47:00.000+05:30

when I moved from Hyderabad to Chennai, this is a small company with around 30 employees, at Chennai and US. I am still not sure of what made me take the decision to move to this place, but, after two years here, I am glad that I made the move and never regretted the decision.

Today, we are 300+work force, with 6 facilities in India and couple in US. Its still growing. I am happy and feel proud to be one of the people who worked towards its growth. I joined here as a Analyst programmer, and with in short duration, I had grown to the level of taking care of a project with a team of 10 members on my own, as a PL. I got the opp to work in the areas I like, work in the project I like and do what I like. Career wise, I got complete freedom to chose my path.

I am able to resume a lot of activities that I used to take up in school and college. Basically, I am learning, learning to be a leader, learning to do a lot of things. The management trusted me and trusts me and I am working hard to keep it up.

I think that if I had not made the move, where would I have been and I cannot even imagine. I never thought of it. I cannot even think of moving from here. but, there might be a day, when I get married, when I had to leave all these wonderful people and the company and step into a new life.

I donno when it happens, but, till then, I am here

Lessons learnt in managing a team

2006-11-17T17:33:00.000+05:30

Some of the lessons I had learnt across the experience of working with different people and projects and clients from different countries are

1 Communicate as much as possible. modes of communication can be anything, but communicate. Only when you communicate, can you know what exactly you are doing and how the task is to be completed. Even a small task needs good communication. Well communicated and documented tasks are always a success
2. Question the person giving the task or requirements, if you feel that it is not the way. You may be wrong, but, it need not be that the other person is right.
3. Brainstorming a problem helps you in acheiving it earlier, with little re-work. else, you may end up doing more work and spend more time than you spend on the brainstorming session and the development.
4. Accept mistakes and be open for changes. Technology is changing so fast and we should be ready to change with it. We may not be able to catch up immediately, but, we should not be in a position that we can never catch it.
5. Learn to adapt to the mindset of the person with whom you are dealing, and this is applicable for all the people, irrespective of the culture or nationality. This does not mean that we need to change ourselves. We can be oursleves, still, learning about the other person and trying to make things happen as per that person would be helpful for them. it need not be a senior, it can be ur junior also, some one who is reporting to you
6. Let the people manage themselves, this is what one of my managers used to say and thats very apt. If you have a team that can manage itself, your work is reduced. else you end up working for them. And you can never grow.
7. Giving space for others to execute their tasks in the way they wish to do is also important.
8. A major lesson I learnt by experience is that, if you want to have a team that is close to you and trust you, never ever take up their work. even if they cannot do that. Let some one else do that, be a guide and guide them. Overlook how things are going.
9. Interfering in the work of team is what many tend to do. Everyone should be capable of making their own decisions, we should make and let others make theirs. if they are not ready to make, we should help them in doing that, rather than take decisions for them.

All these, I learnt from my experience and experience of others. These are quite few. Many more are there, which would be shared soon.

I am able to recognise the above mentioned issues, thanks to my management. They helped me, guided me, gave me the opportunities. And are still giving me, with trust :-)

Seat belt - its required

2006-11-17T17:26:00.000+05:30

couple of weeks back, one of our directors was supposed to visit our facility at Chennai. We came to office, expecting him to be there at any moment. Then, we get a news that he met with a serious accident the earlier day, and hence, not coming. we tried to reach him, but could not.

Some how, we reached him, and came to understand that he is fine and he lost the mobile.

Now, later, one of our colleagues explained what has happened and also gave us a photoshow. Seeing it, we were able to understand the magnitude (hope the word is right) of the accident. The car was damaged completly in the front. We learnt that it had leapt 50 mts into the air and got reversed. Some thing sort of what they show in films. Inspite of all this, he came with little injuries. The reason, he was wearing seat belt.

We were all happy that he is fine, and one lesson learnt is to use seat belt at all times.

Those of you out there who are reluctant to use seat belts while travelling, please start using them. They might cause discomfort for few mins, but, using it is worth a life.

2006-10-23T18:45:00.000+05:30

Diwali is different this time. We actually planned to travel to my native, myself and my sis. However, our parents came here and we had celebrations with our aunt's family.

The Diya's were lighted in the traditional way and the house was decorated. We even lighted few candles inside the house. The house is a recent construction and is getting decorated for the first time for Diwali.

While decoration is going on, Kids have started playing the crackers. Teanants of the houses as well as my cousin's cousin's too joined.. Flowerpots, CRackers, Bombs, Shooting stars, Rockets, all these were fired.
Though the day started with a mishap of losing some jewellery, it ended peacefully, with out any problems

Some more memories soon

Photoshow for my cousins :-)

2006-10-09T16:33:00.000+05:30

The above is the photoshow I had prepared using the snaps of our cousins pets.

Crazy about History - 2

2006-09-15T14:17:00.000+05:30

I am still crazy about history. I regret now why I had not taken history as my subject.

There is something in past that fascinates me. Might be the different stories afloat or the mysteries surrounding the people of that time, there is something that is there.

when I came to know about Indian History in brief, and some little info later, I felt that there were a lot of missing links. Glad that I was right. What ever we read about India in books is very little, not even .1% of its great history.

Where in the history books is it mentioned about the visit of St.Thomas, one of the Apostles of Jesus, to India? Where are we getting info about the origin of Christianity, the famous Syrian Christians, St.Thomas Christians?

Have anyone read about the landing of Jews in Kerala and the details of the one of the Oldest Synagougues in the world present at Fort Cochin?

What about the history of Nagas who were the original inhabitants of Srilanka, and Southern Most part of India? How come we are seeing them only in Nagaland now?

These are some of the few points that I came across over internet.

Thanks to Internet and people intrested in sharing their knowledge, I am learing a lot

Kamat's Potpourri: Biography of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar

2006-09-10T17:45:00.000+05:30

Kamat's Potpourri: Biography of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar:

I am a crazy fan of history. More crazy when its related to India.

India had gone through different phases and one is the struggle for independence by different kindgdoms of India, from the rule of Britishers, French and Dutch.

The legacy of different kingdoms and kings, their work for the society, the architectural marvels, the fights , all these are a wonder for me.

Veer Savarkar, is one of the intriguing personalities for me and here is a link to his life history...

MusicalNirvana - Articles on Ustad Bismillah Khan

2006-08-21T11:40:00.000+05:30

MusicalNirvana - Articles on Ustad Bismillah Khan

Browsing the net, an article on Ustad's name in TOI caught my eye. Sensing something wrong, I opened it only to find that he passed away on 17th. Inspite of being on net every day, for more than 16 hours, reading ET frontpage everyday, I was unaware.

He is one of the Musical Mastero's whom I prefer to listen at any time of the day. classical music is my way for relaxation, whether its Carnatic or Hindustani, Vocal or instrumental, its always melodious when played by experts. Many a times, after returning from a hard day at work, feeling tired, I switch on the music and get a soothing sleep. However, the same is not felt if u try to relax watching TV. Reading is another aspect that provides me with the required relazxation.

Coming back, it is sad to learn that he passed without fulfilling his last wish. He is said to be a man of Simplicity. I feel that in this world where every thing is done for monetary benefits, he is never learnt to do that, else, for his skills, he would have been sitting in riches.

Why Ramana Maharshi here

2006-07-22T23:50:00.000+05:30

Some of those who read this might have wondered why the change suddenly?
Let me explain.

Long long ago, more than half a centuary back, this happened, before my Dad was born. I learnt it from my Grandma.
Grandpa (Dad's Father) used to work for South India Insurance and was one of the high middle class persons of that time. He used to maintain a car itseems. Before the birth of Dad, he had happened to go on a trip to Arunachalam, where Ramana Maharshi stays, along with his entourage. On the way up the hill, the car met with an accident and started rolling down. It got stopped in midst due to a small rock and all the lives were saved. Here, in our native place, a lady who sees the future came to our house itseems and told about it to my Grandma itseems. Grandma was pregnant itseems and she had also told that a boy will be born and he has to be named after Lord Venkata Ramana or Balaji of Tirupathi. When Grandpa came home, Granny questioned him and confirmed that the news is true. Well, it was a boy and he was named Venkata Ramana. It is my Dad :-) I am not sure as to after whome Grandpa named my DAD, Lord or Ramana Maharshi.

Later in the years, 12 years back, Dad was suffering with Piles and once it was so critical that a doctor had operated on him and damaged the rectum. We did not understand what was the issue, but Dad's health was failing everyday. Thanks to Dr.avva Satyamurthy of Machilipatnam, we traced the specialist at Sri. Ramana Hospitals, Chennai, who saved my Dad's life, after two months at Hospital and 5 operations. Thanks to him Dad is safe and sound now. It was God's grace that we got right people at right time to save us. Well, again, here, we came across Ramana maharshi's photo, everyday, we used to see it.

After 12 years, I moved to chennai on work and now, I come across his photo everyday. Thats when I thought that there must have been some connection for us with him. He, the almighty alone knows the facts. I like the face with a gentle smile and feel peace on seeing the picture.

I did a search on internet and came across the article that I had blogged here in peices.

Thats the whole story.

Final release

2006-07-22T19:19:00.000+05:30

God, what a tension before the final release. Every release is filled with tension and final would mean more tension.
The project, that got extended on and on due to CR's is finally coming to an end and there is a lot of work to be done before the release.

One thing is true, sitting in the chair of PL is not as easy as it seems to the outsider. We need to be good in every field, technically sound, functionally good, manage the team well, take care of them, deal with the clients properly, take care their issues, satisfy the management, what not should we do. And finally, take the blame and heat from all the sources, but, not pass it to the lower rung.

For a woman, managing a team with guys, that too, with some elder and some more experienced, its a major challenge.

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset

2006-07-14T23:54:00.000+05:30

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset:

16. What is the nature of the Self?
What exists in truth is the Self alone. The world, the individual soul, and God are appearances in it. like silver in mother-of-pearl, these three appear at the same time, and disappear at the same time. The Self is that where there is absolutely no "I" thought. That is called "Silence". The Self itself is the world; the Self itself is "I"; the Self itself is God; all is Siva, the Self.
17. Is not everything the work of God?
Without desire, resolve, or effort, the sun rises; and in its mere presence, the sun-stone emits fire, the lotus blooms, water evaporates; people perform their various functions and then rest. Just as in the presence of the magnet the needle moves, it is by virtue of the mere presence of God that the souls governed by the three (cosmic) functions or the fivefold divine activity perform their actions and then rest, in accordance with their respective karmas. God has no resolve; no karma attaches itself to Him. That is like worldly actions not affecting the sun, or like the merits and demerits of the other four elements not affecting all pervading space.
18. Of the devotees, who is the greatest?
He who gives himself up to the Self that is God is the most excellent devotee. Giving one's self up to God means remaining constantly in the Self without giving room for the rise of any thoughts other than that of the Self. Whatever burdens are thrown on God, He bears them. Since the supreme power of God makes all things move, why should we, without submitting ourselves to it, constantly worry ourselves with thoughts as to what should be done and how, and what should not be done and how not? We know that the train carries all loads, so after getting on it why should we carry our small luggage on our head to our discomfort, instead of putting it down in the train and feeling at ease?
19. What is non-attachment?
As thoughts arise, destroying them utterly without any residue in the very place of their origin is non-attachment. Just as the pearl-diver ties a stone to his waist, sinks to the bottom of the sea and there takes the pearls, so each one of us should be endowed with non-attachment, dive within oneself and obtain the Self-Pearl.
20. Is it not possible for God and the Guru to effect the release of a soul?
God and the Guru will only show the way to release; they will not by themselves take the soul to the state of release. In truth, God and the Guru are not different. Just as the prey which has fallen into the jaws of a tiger has no escape, so those who have come within the ambit of the Guru's gracious look will be saved by the Guru and will not get lost; yet, each one should by his own effort pursue the path shown by God or Guru and gain release. One can know oneself only with one's own eye of knowledge, and not with somebody else's. Does he who is Rama require the help of a mirror to know that he is Rama?
21. Is it necessary for one who longs for release to inquire into the nature of categories (tattvas)?
Just as one who wants to throw away garbage has no need to analyse it and see what it is, so one who wants to know the Self has no need to count the number of categories or inquire into their characteristics; what he has to do is to reject altogether the categories that hide the Self. The world should be considered like a dream.
22. Is there no difference between waking and dream?
Waking is long and a dream short; other than this there is no difference. Just as waking happenings seem real while awake. so do those in a dream while dreaming. In dream the mind takes on another body. In both waking and dream states thoughts. names and forms occur simultaneously.
23. Is it any use reading books for those who long for release?
All the texts say that in order to gain release one should render the mind quiescent; therefore their conclusive teaching is that the mind should be rendered quiescent; once this has been understood there is no need for endless reading. In order to quieten the mind one has only to inquire within oneself what one's Self is; how could this search be done in books? One should know one's Self with one's own eye of wisdom. The Self is within the five sheaths; but books are outside them. Since the Self has to be inquired into by discarding the five sheaths, it is futile to search for it in books. There will come a time when one will have to forget all that one has learned.
24. What is happiness?
Happiness is the very nature of the Self; happiness and the Self are not different. There is no happiness in any object of the world. We imagine through our ignorance that we derive happiness from objects. When the mind goes out, it experiences misery. In truth, when its desires are fulfilled, it returns to its own place and enjoys the happiness that is the Self. Similarly, in the states of sleep, samadhi and fainting, and when the object desired is obtained or the object disliked is removed, the mind becomes inward-turned, and enjoys pure Self-Happiness. Thus the mind moves without rest alternately going out of the Self and returning to it. Under the tree the shade is pleasant; out in the open the heat is scorching. A person who has been going about in the sun feels cool when he reaches the shade. Someone who keeps on going from the shade into the sun and then back into the shade is a fool. A wise man stays permanently in the shade. Similarly, the mind of the one who knows the truth does not leave Brahman. The mind of the ignorant, on the contrary, revolves in the world, feeling miserable, and for a little time returns to Brahman to experience happiness. In fact, what is called the world is only thought. When the world disappears, i.e. when there is no thought, the mind experiences happiness; and when the world appears, it goes through misery.
25. What is wisdom-insight (jnana-drsti)?
Remaining quiet is what is called wisdom-insight. To remain quiet is to resolve the mind in the Self. Telepathy, knowing past, present and future happenings and clairvoyance do not constitute wisdom-insight.
26. What is the relation between desirelessness and wisdom?
Desirelessness is wisdom. The two are not different; they are the same. Desirelessness is refraining from turning the mind towards any object. Wisdom means the appearance of no object. In other words, not seeking what is other than the Self is detachment or desirelessness; not leaving the Self is wisdom.
27. What is the difference between inquiry and meditation?
Inquiry consists in retaining the mind in the Self. Meditation consists in thinking that one's self is Brahman, existence-consciousness-bliss.
28. What is release?
Inquiring into the nature of one's self that is in bondage, and realising one's true nature is release.
SRI RAMANARPANAM ASTU

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset

2006-07-14T23:53:00.001+05:30

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset:

13. The residual impressions (thoughts) of objects appear wending like the waves of an ocean. When will all of them get destroyed?
As the meditation on the Self rises higher and higher, the thoughts will get destroyed.
14. Is it possible for the residual impressions of objects that come from beginningless time, as it were, to be resolved, and for one to remain as the pure Self?
Without yielding to the doubt "Is it possible, or not?", one should persistently hold on to the meditation on the Self. Even if one be a great sinner, one should not worry and weep "O! I am a sinner, how can I be saved?"; one should completely renounce the thought "I am a sinner"; and concentrate keenly on meditation on the Self; then, one would surely succeed. There are not two minds - one good and the other evil; the mind is only one. It is the residual impressions that are of two kinds - auspicious and inauspicious. When the mind is under the influence of auspicious impressions it is called good; and when it is under the influence of inauspicious impressions it is regarded as evil.
The mind should not be allowed to wander towards worldly objects and what concerns other people. However bad other people may be, one should bear no hatred for them. Both desire and hatred should be eschewed. All that one gives to others one gives to one's self. If this truth is understood who will not give to others? When one's self arises all arises; when one's self becomes quiescent all becomes quiescent. To the extent we behave with humility, to that extent there will result good. If the mind is rendered quiescent, one may live anywhere.
15. How long should inquiry be practised?
As long as there are impressions of objects in the mind, so long the inquiry "Who am I?" is required. As thoughts arise they should be destroyed then and there in the very place of their origin, through inquiry. If one resorts to contemplation of the Self unintermittently, until the Self is gained, that alone would do. As long as there are enemies within the fortress, they will continue to sally forth; if they are destroyed as they emerge, the fortress will fall into our hands.

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset

2006-07-14T23:53:00.000+05:30

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset: "
11. What is the means for constantly holding on to the thought 'Who am I?'
When other thoughts arise, one should not pursue them, but should inquire: 'To whom do they arise?' It does not matter how many thoughts arise. As each thought arises, one should inquire with diligence, 'To whom has this thought arisen?'. The answer that would emerge would be 'To me'. Thereupon if one inquires 'Who am I?', the mind will go back to its source; and the thought that arose will become quiescent. With repeated practice in this manner, the mind will develop the skill to stay in its source. When the mind that is subtle goes out through the brain and the sense-organs, the gross names and forms appear; when it stays in the heart, the names and forms disappear. Not letting the mind go out, but retaining it in the Heart is what is called 'inwardness' (antar-mukha). Letting the mind go out of the Heart is known as 'externalisation' (bahir-mukha). Thus, when the mind stays in the Heart, the 'I' which is the source of all thoughts will go, and the Self which ever exists will shine. Whatever one does, one should do without the egoity 'I'. If one acts in that way, all will appear as of the nature of Siva (God).
12. Are there no other means for making the mind quiescent?
Other than inquiry, there are no adequate means. If through other means it is sought to control the mind, the mind will appear to be controlled, but will again go forth. Through the control of breath also, the mind will become quiescent; but it will be quiescent only so long as the breath remains controlled, and when the breath resumes the mind also will again start moving and will wander as impelled by residual impressions. The source is the same for both mind and breath. Thought, indeed, is the nature of the mind. The thought "I" is the first thought of the mind; and that is egoity. It is from that whence egoity originates that breath also originates. Therefore, when the mind becomes quiescent, the breath is controlled, and when the breath is controlled the mind becomes quiescent. But in deep sleep, although the mind becomes quiescent, the breath does not stop. This is because of the will of God, so that the body may be preserved and other people may not be under the impression that it is dead. In the state of waking and in samadhi, when the mind becomes quiescent the breath is controlled. Breath is the gross form of mind. Till the time of death, the mind keeps breath in the body; and when the body dies the mind takes the breath along with it. Therefore, the exercise of breath-control is only an aid for rendering the mind quiescent (manonigraha); it will not destroy the mind (manonasa).
Like the practice of breath-control. meditation on the forms of God, repetition of mantras, restriction on food, etc., are but aids for rendering the mind quiescent.
Through meditation on the forms of God and through repetition of mantras, the mind becomes one-pointed. The mind will always be wandering. Just as when a chain is given to an elephant to hold in its trunk it will go along grasping the chain and nothing else, so also when the mind is occupied with a name or form it will grasp that alone. When the mind expands in the form of countless thoughts, each thought becomes weak; but as thoughts get resolved the mind becomes one-pointed and strong; for such a mind Self-inquiry will become easy. Of all the restrictive rules, that relating to the taking of sattvic food in moderate quantities is the best; by observing this rule, the sattvic quality of mind will increase, and that will be helpful to Self-inquiry. "

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset

2006-07-14T23:51:00.000+05:30

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset: "8. What is the nature of the mind?
What is called 'mind' is a wondrous power residing in the Self. It causes all thoughts to arise. Apart from thoughts, there is no such thing as mind. Therefore, thought is the nature of mind. Apart from thoughts, there is no independent entity called the world. In deep sleep there are no thoughts, and there is no world. In the states of waking and dream, there are thoughts, and there is a world also. Just as the spider emits the thread (of the web) out of itself and again withdraws it into itself, likewise the mind projects the world out of itself and again resolves it into itself. When the mind comes out of the Self, the world appears. Therefore, when the world appears (to be real), the Self does not appear; and when the Self appears (shines) the world does not appear. When one persistently inquires into the nature of the mind, the mind will end leaving the Self (as the residue). What is referred to as the Self is the Atman. The mind always exists only in dependence on something gross; it cannot stay alone. It is the mind that is called the subtle body or the soul (jiva).
9. What is the path of inquiry for understanding the nature of the mind?
That which rises as 'I' in this body is the mind. If one inquires as to where in the body the thought 'I' rises first, one would discover that it rises in the heart. That is the place of the mind's origin. Even if one thinks constantly 'I' 'I', one will be led to that place. Of all the thoughts that arise in the mind, the 'I' thought is the first. It is only after the rise of this that the other thoughts arise. It is after the appearance of the first personal pronoun that the second and third personal pronouns appear; without the first personal pronoun there will not be the second "

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset

2006-07-14T23:49:00.000+05:30

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset: "2. If I am none of these, then who am I?
After negating all of the above-mentioned as 'not this', 'not this', that Awareness which alone remains - that I am.
3. What is the nature of Awareness?
The nature of Awareness is existence-consciousness-bliss
4. When will the realization of the Self be gained?
When the world which is what-is-seen has been removed, there will be realization of the Self which is the seer.
5. Will there not be realization of the Self even while the world is there (taken as real)?
There will not be.
6. Why?
The seer and the object seen are like the rope and the snake. Just as the knowledge of the rope which is the substrate will not arise unless the false knowledge of the illusory serpent goes, so the realization of the Self which is the substrate will not be gained unless the belief that the world is real is removed.
7. When will the world which is the object seen be removed?
When the mind, which is the cause of all cognition's and of all actions, becomes quiescent, the world will disappear. "

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset

2006-07-14T23:48:00.000+05:30

The Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi website - Publications frameset: "1 . Who am I ?
The gross body which is composed of the seven humours (dhatus), I am not; the five cognitive sense organs, viz. the senses of hearing, touch, sight, taste, and smell, which apprehend their respective objects, viz. sound, touch, colour, taste, and odour, I am not; the five cognitive sense-organs, viz. the organs of speech, locomotion, grasping, excretion, and procreation, which have as their respective functions speaking, moving, grasping, excreting, and enjoying, I am not; the five vital airs, prana, etc., which perform respectively the five functions of in-breathing, etc., I am not; even the mind which thinks, I am not; the nescience too, which is endowed only with the residual impressions of objects, and in which there are no objects and no functioning's, I am not. "

SDLC of a Project

2006-07-14T22:42:00.000+05:30

Normally, one would speak of system analysis, REquirement Gathering, SRS, development, testing, delivery, maintenance.

After being through a project for complete SDLC, I feel otherwise. Its only two, nope, three phases. Hectic work, Medium Hectic, Normal pace. A Project Manager and Leader, along with the functional consultant would be either in the Hectic or Medium Hectic Phases, all through the project duration. Developers would be in hectic situation just before releases and QA would be under hectic work during the first few releases. Else, it would be normal or Medium Hectic.

We start a project with an estimation, we get CR's, we change the estimation, then, the so called final release happens, and then, UAt, then, starts the series of CR's, and from here, every release is a final release till we actually end it. And this I notice is same with many projects held across different companies.

Any one differs????

Dear Terrorist...

2006-07-12T17:04:00.000+05:30

Dear Terrorist,
Even if you are not reading this we don't care. Time and again you tried to disturb us and disrupt our life - killing innocent civilians by planting bombs in trains, buses and cars. You have tried hard to bring death and destruction, cause panic and fear and create communal disharmony but everytime you were disgustingly unsuccessful. Do you know how we pass our life in Mumbai? How much it takes for us to earn that single rupee? If you wanted to give us a shock then we are sorry to say that you failed miserably in your ulterior motives. Better look elsewere, not here.
We are not Hindus and Muslims or Gujaratis and Marathis or Punjabis and Bengaliies. Nor do we distinguish ourselves as owners or workers, govt.
employees or private employees. WE ARE MUMBAIKERS (Bombay-ites, if you like). We will not allow you to disrupt our life like this. On the last few occassions when you struck (including the 7 deadly blasts in a single day killing over 250 people and injuring 500+ in 1993), we went to work next day in full strength. This time we cleared everything within a few hours and were back to normal - the vendors placing their next order, businessmen finalizing the next deals and the office workers rushing to catch the next train. (Yes the same train you targetted)
Fathom this: Within 3 hours of the blasts, long queues of blood donating volunteers were seen outside various hospital, where most of the injured were admitted. By 12 midnight, the hospital had to issue a notification that blood banks were full and they didn't require any more blood. The next day, attendance at schools and office was close to 100%, trains & buses were packed to the brim, the crowds were back.
The city has simply dusted itself off and moved one - perhaps with greater vigour.
We are Mumbaikers and we live like brothers in times like this. So, do not dare to threaten us with your crackers. The spirit of Mumbai is very strong and can not be harmed.
Please forward this to others. U never know, by chance it may come to hands of a terrorist anywhere in the world and he can then read this message which is specially meant for him!!!
With Love,
From the people of Mumbai (Bombay)

Above is an email I had received today and I thought of putting it on my blog....

The above is true for the spirit of India, no matter what, we Indians keep on moving and try to move the world. Remember Atlas Shrugged? If Indians all over the world stop working, for a single week day, the effect can be felt far off...

And when it comes to working, any working class, across the world, if it stops working, the world would stop moving and we would be going back. Looks like its time for like minded people of the world come together and bring about a revolution, as envisaged by Ayn Rand in ATLAS Shruggged. It applies to the whole world, not just any country.

Mumbai Blasts

2006-07-11T21:22:00.000+05:30

One more set of Blasts in Mumbai... Whos work is it now? Religious fundamentalists or powers intrested in seeing loss for Mumbai?

Time would tell, thats what we used to say earlier. Now, even time cannot tell, cos, the next minute, no one knows what happens. Evidences might get erased, witnesses might disappear, stories would be woven and events can get distorted. Thanks to the Media Hype, everyone knows whats happening, and even the powers that create these havocs. And this helps them to stay on Alert.

Breaking news, this is what its termed as and this causes harm many times. Dont you think so????

Thanks to my Organization

2006-05-20T01:42:00.000+05:30

Analyst Programmer -> Co-ordinator -> Functional Consultant -> Business Analyst -> Project Lead

Above is the transformation of my job role from Spetember 2005 till date

Learnt a lot of things, and need to learn more. Thanks to my current manager, and our directors, who are always encouraging and supporting, I am here. Thanks to our management that encourages skill, I am rejoicing

Thanks SGT :-)

Donno where its leading to ???

2006-04-01T21:21:00.000+05:30

Its bee a long time since I had written in any of my blogs. infact, my net presence has reduced to a large extent.

I dont regret it, for in this time, I had been spending my time completely on projects and learning new technologies.

There has been a change in my professional front. I am less in development and taking care of functional aspect and this is something new for me. Learning phase, for writing docs, and making things work.

Apart from work, there is lot I learnt to improve my self. Learnt a lot many things and still learning.

But, finally, I am not aware of where all this is leading to ...??? Good or Bad, only time has to tell

Why Me?: It Takes A Geek

2005-10-03T00:39:00.000+05:30

Worth reading short stories :-)

A different person

2005-08-26T14:56:00.000+05:30

I was out of blogging, not blogging, but many activities for almost a month. First it was vacation, then, work that was pending. Again, fell sick for a week, and now, back to work in normalcy.

Infact, the work is so intresting that I find less time for any other activity.

When I came to work last week, there was a mail from a colleague speaking of a charity show being conducted for the sake of HIV positive children, and I neglected that first, not that I was not intrested, my health was so bad that nothing went to my mind. LAter, I was thinking that missed out an imp thing and finally my mail box showed it to me.

Tried to see that as many tickets as possible are sold and in the process contacted a friend from TIG. He immediately accepted to buy some tickets, not only brought , but also made some of his colleagues buy them. Thanks to him and his colleagues. Even many of our colleagues came forward to donate/help. Coming back, he said that he would come down and came in the noon to meet me.

A little about this person first. He is an Engineering Graduate from a University here, who is working as a software engineer, trying to see that disabled persons are trained and placed well in organizations, working for the cause of a virtual university that helps people who are physically disabled to get education in a convenient way. There is nothing special in these qualities, cos, many of us, the so called normal people try for one or some of the above. The point is that he is not fortunate enough to be called normal by the society, cos, he cannot walk. But when considered as an Individual, he is as normal as everyone of us.

I came across him at TIG, through a discussion forum and our interactions made us stay in constant touch. Today, when I met him in person, am really shocked, but, then, immediately could not help myself in appreciating him and his strong will. I was thinking that this guy is a strong willed person, nope, he is a person with a very strong will and guts. There is a lot to learn from him, for everyone.

Instead of sitting back on our weakness, we can try to make a diference, in our lives and the lives of others.

May God give you more strnegth to reach your goal..

Power Withing

2005-08-08T20:42:00.000+05:30

'An old Hindu legend says there was a time when men were gods. But they abused their divine powers so much that Brahma, the master of all gods, decided to take these powers away and hide them in a place where they would be impossible to find. All that remained was to find a suitable hiding place.

A number of lesser gods were appointed to a council to deal with the issue. They suggested this: "Why not bury man's powers in the earth?" To which Brahma replied, " No, that will not do because man would dig deep and find it."

So the gods said, "In that case, we will send their divinity to the deepest depths of the ocean."

But Brahma replied again, "Sooner or later man will explore the depths of the ocean and it is certain he will find it and bring it to the surface."

So the lesser gods concluded, "Neither land nor sea is a place where man's divine powers will be safe, so we do not know where to hide it."

At that moment Brahma exclaimed, "This is what we will do with man's divinity! We will hide it deep within him because that is the only place he will not think to look."

From then on, according to the legend, man searched the world over; he explored, climbed, dove, and dug in search of something that was inside himself the whole time.

(Eric Butterworth, Discover the Power Within Yourself)"

Help required with Blogging software

2005-08-04T14:58:00.000+05:30

Hey,

anyone who come across this post, I need a help.

We are planning to host Blogging software in our organization so that our colleagues would start posting their entries for intranet.

I am on lookout for a software that's suitable for corporate environment, but is open source.

After going through all the available Open source or GPL licensed software, am confused on which of the following is the best

1. Drupal
2. Wordpress
3. Textpatten
4. Pivot
5. b2Evolution

The numbering is not in the ranking of the prefrence, but, if someone can help me in the ranking, that would be a great help.

Thanks
Kiran

2005-08-04T12:53:00.000+05:30

Serenity Of Knowing
Acceptance
The world is a palette of varied beauty with subtle and not-so-subtle differences in brilliance and hue. But, like all we perceive subjectively, many things can fail to meet our expectations. People don't behave as we'd wish them to, situations turn out differently than we'd imagined, and the end result is often unhappiness. The remedy is acceptance - an open-minded, understanding perception that brings the serenity of knowing every individual, situation, or difficulty is unique and valuable in some way. It is a mode of respect for differences, of seeing beyond faults or disappointments and reaching contentment. Though acceptance necessitates recognizing and acknowledging situations or attitudes that exist in the present, it does not imply that you need also give your approval. To approve or to disapprove is to judge, but in accepting, you simply understand that all situations and all people are in a constant state of flux. Likewise, each of us is also in the process of changing and by choosing to accept ourselves (in the past, present, and future); we can truly begin to understand who we really are. Acceptance is freedom from the need to retain preconceived notions, control of others, favored outcomes, or the anxiety that can come when the unexpected occurs. It is more than tolerance, though resisting the urge to react to the choices of others is a large part of the process. Rather it is a patience and gentleness that extends outward, beginning in one's own soul and extending to other people and the world at large. Sometimes the process works in reverse because accepting others can be easier than accepting oneself, though the latter is the inevitable result of true acceptance. In fostering acceptance, the need to judge is quelled because the belief that others ought to live up to your expectations (or 'should thinking') is eliminated because everything is evolving and deserves to do so without interference. And in letting growth happen and understanding that each person, place, thing, or situation is as it is meant to be, a blissful quiet of the mind and strong feelings of worth can be realized.

An article from Daily OM

Mount Kailash

2005-07-12T20:33:00.000+05:30

Today, its all spritual.
I used to hear of Mount Kailash and Manas Sarovar as a child from different people. It used to be a strange thing for me. A Place in Himalayas, said to be an abode for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati (Shakthi), land where sages and rishis can reach through their dedication and meditation, land which is inaccessible for mere mortal. And then, various fables associated with it from all the ancient scriptures, like Ravana lifting the mountain with his hands, Lord Hanuma residing there in meditation for past thousands of years, in the form of an old sage, all these and many more...

The first time I had a chance to see some snaps of the Kailash Parvat or Kailash Mountain was when my paternal Aunt visited it in 1997. She made a trip to Kailash and Manassarovar in Himalayas, Tibetan region, now under the control of China. And when she returned, she brought some snaps of both the places. Its then that I saw the picture like above.

She explained to us her experiences there while doing the parikramas for Kailash and Manas Sarovar. She told that she felt like walking in a walled Kingdom and when checked, there were no walls, except stones. She also told me that no one can reach the actual mountain by crossing the dunes of rocks laid before it, and any one who tries cannot return

Her trip made me curious and I started doing research on Internet whenever possible on the place. I learnt many a things in the process.

Kailash PArvat is a place of worship for Hindus as well as Buddhists. Common belief for both is that its a land of Sages/Monks. Yet another common belief is that by doing the parikrama of the mountain for a certain number of times, you acheive eternity. Aunt was telling me that there would be a dog accompanying every piligrim and that its a sacred one. The same was confirmed by many in their list of experiences noted on Web. Some wrote that its the guardian angel and some wrote it as monks in the form of Dogs. But, once we are done with the parikrama, the dog disappears itsims.

I read somewhere that doing parikrama around the mountain, with concentration and dedication, will bring peace and tranquility to mind, body, health.

I read about the experiences of others and gained some knowledge. But, I am waiting for the day when I can visit the place and get myself immersed in the beautiful nature. I am waiting for the day when I can enjoy each and every moment of the trip, right from the trekking to parikrama and if possible, spend more time at that place. Awaiting for the call....

Kailash Temple of Ellora, Maharshtra

2005-07-12T14:02:00.000+05:30

Kailash Temple is situated at Ellora and is believed that it was constructed by excavating approx. 200,000 tones of rock and is possible the world's largest monolithic structure. Representing Shiva's Himalayan home, the temple is exquisitely sculpted and is considered as one of the most astonishing 'buildings' in the history of architecture. A crowning glory of the art, Kailash temple at Ellora is indeed unique. Instead of carving down into the face of a cliff and creating underground halls which had been the practice, the sculptors/architects set aside all convention and created a full temple, identical in every detail to a structural, 'built-up' example, by carving vertically down into the living rock.

I was searching for some images of Mount Kailash, and in the process of searching, came across Kailash Temple.
I was surprised to see the pictures and the history of the temple located in midst of Ellora Caves. Immediately, decided to make a blog here.

This is added to the list of must visit places now. This place has to be visited in the next one year. else, I may never do that.

Some of the urls on net that give more info/pictures are as follows:
http://www.samadhihermitage.org/Blissbook-Pages/Image27.html
http://www.indhistory.com/hindu-temple/hindu-temple-kailash-temple.html
http://www.cultureholidays.com/Temples/kailash.htm
http://www.travel-pictures-gallery.com/imagepagesind10.html
http://www.ou.edu/class/ahi1113/html/ch-03-1.htm
http://www.anthroarcheart.org/tblo72.htm

I also came across some more intresting things related to India, Vedic culture, Hinduism, etc. Will blog them also here after studying them completely.

In the mean time, an extract from one of the above sites:

The depiction of the demon Ravana shaking Mount Kailash is a masterpiece contain the scenes of semi-mythological history, the royal court and popular life of the ancient times, as told in romances and plays. Some pictures recall the Greek and Roman compositions and proportions, few late resemble to Chinese manners to some extent. But majority belongs to a phase which is purely Indian as they are found no where else. These monuments were constructed during two different periods of time separated by a long interval of four centuries. The older ones were the product of last to centuries before Christ and belongs to Hinayana period of Buddhism in later part of 2nd century AD when Buddhism was divided into two sections, after the conduct of the fourth general council under another great king, Kanishka.

MP's Salary in India

2005-07-01T18:24:00.000+05:30

IndiaPolicy Institute: Policy Clearing House: Laws of Indian Corruption

A friend has sent me a mail with the following text:
Salary & Govt. Concessions for a Member of Parliament
(MP)

Monthly Salary : 12,000
Expense for Constitution per month : 10,000
Office expenditure per month : 14,000

Traveling concession (Rs. 8 per km) : 48,000 (For a
visit to Delhi & return: 6000 km)

Daily BETA during parliament meets : 500

Charge for 1 class (A/C) in train : Free (For any
number of times)
(All over India)

Charge for Business Class in flights : Free for 40
trips / year
(With wife or P.A.)

Rent for MP hostel at Delhi : Free

Electricity costs at home : Free up to 50,000 units

Local phone call charge : Free up to 1,70,000 calls.

TOTAL expense for a MP per year : 32,00,000

TOTAL expense for 5 years : 1,60,00,000

For 534 MPs, the expense for 5 years : 8,54,40,00,000
(nearly 855 cores)
And they are elected by THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, by the
largest democratic process
in the world, not intruded into the parliament on
their own or by any qualification.
This is how all our tax money is been swallowed and
price hike on our regular commodities.......
Think of the great democracy we have.............

On seeing the article, I was tempted to make a search on internet and came across the above article. It was really a good sarcastic article on the MP's. Please do take a look.

To think that we are spending a whopping 170 crores of visible expenditure on our honorable member of Parliaments, I now understand why we have many uneducated people at power.

Instead of saying "God save India", I prefer to say "Let us save India"

India and its influence on other nations...

2005-07-01T12:42:00.000+05:30

To my previous post, Kiran Chakravadhanula has given a comment
"Nice post.I believe there are Vishnu temples in angkor (cambodia) and also Muktinath, nepal.India is a very unique place culturally, it has influenced much of Asia if not the world to a great degree. Too bad that many Indians dont realise this."

As I was composing this text, I received a mail from a friend with the following contents:
Some of the following facts may be known to you. These facts were recently published in a German magazine, which deals with WORLD HISTORY FACTS ABOUT INDIA .

1. India never invaded any country in her last 1000 years of history.
2. India invented the Number system. Zero was invented by Aryabhatta.
3. The world's first University was established in Takshila in 700BC. More than 10,500 students from all over the world studied more than 60 subjects... The University of Nalanda built in the 4 th century BC was one of the greatest achievements of ancient India in the field of education.
4. According to the Forbes magazine, Sanskrit is the most suitable language for computer software.
5. Ayurveda is the earliest school of medicine known to humans.
6. Although western media portray modern images of India as poverty striken and underdeveloped through political corruption, India was once the richest empire on earth.
7. The art of navigation was born in the river Sindh 5000 years ago. The very word "Navigation" is derived from the Sanskrit word NAVGATIH. (Course of a Boat)
8. The value of pi was first calculated by Budhayana, and he explained the concept of what is now known as the Pythagorean Theorem. British scholars have last year (1999) officially published that Budhayan's works dates to the 6th Century which is long before the European mathematicians.
9. Algebra, trigonometry and calculus came from India . Quadratic equations were by Sridharacharya in the 11 th Century; the largest numbers the Greeks and the Romans used were 106 whereas Indians used numbers as big as 1053.
10. According to the Gemmological Institute of America, up until 1896, India was the only source of diamonds to the world.
11. USA based IEEE has proved what has been a century-old suspicion amongst academics that the pioneer of wireless communication was Professor Jagdeesh Bose and not Marconi.
12. The earliest reservoir and dam for irrigation was built in Saurashtra.
13. Chess was invented in India .
14. Sushruta is the father of surgery. 2600 years ago he and health scientists of his time conducted surgeries like cesareans, cataract, fractures and urinary stones. Usage of anaesthesia was well known in ancient India .
15. When many cultures in the world were only nomadic forest dwellers over 5000 years ago, Indians established Harappan culture in Sindhu Valley (Indus Valley Civilisation).
16. The place value system, the decimal system was developed in India in 100 BC.

Well, all these are some of the great things regarding India. rather I should say, Bharatdesh. India is a name given to us by Britishers and Hindustan is what our patriots call it. I prefer to call my Country Bharat.

We did have an influence on many countries in Asia and Europe. There were many historical events and still some places in East Asia follow the culture imparted by our rulers hundreds of years back. It is from India that the concept of greeting people with clasped palms and fingers has arisen. Clasping of palms and fingers in a posture where the palm is drawn near to the heart means that we are welcoming the visitors wholeheartedly. And the same could be seen in Some countries in East Asia, like Thailand, Malaysia, etc.

The Symbol Swastik used by Hitler is borrowed from India. They say that many Vedic Scriptures were taken away from India by foreigners, for they contain many secrets. And Vedic scriptures containing secrets is true.

This is all our past. In the present day, we are fighting, not realising the harm we are doing for ourselves. We love to claim our ancestral roots, but we never take care to preserve them or restore them. We dont even care to follow some of the age old established values, which were proved to have scientific meaning. Why comment on others, even I dont follow. I am aware of the change that has come in myself over the past few years. And the same could be seen in everyone.

Inspite of all the changes that we make to ourself, if we can still preserve our culture, our rich heritage, the values passed on from elders to us, I am sure that we can be doing a better living than what we are today.

I feel surprised to see people who cant speak in their mother language or read/write in that lang. They fancy themselves and speak in english. I dont say that speaking in other languages is not good. You got to speak, in as many languages as possible. only then you can communicate with people of other cultures. But, whats the use when you cannot speak in your mother toungue, the one in which your people speak.

And I am sure that this is not restricted to India alone. This is visible world wide.

Early 1900's saw a revolution in which people across the world changed a lot, major change was seen in lifestyles and the way people perceived relationships. Divorce rate increased slowly. Now, something similar is happening. Lets wait and watch how the tide of time will turn the things and people's attitude.

So Much in common, yet...

2005-06-28T15:50:00.000+05:30

This is an image taken by a friend at Yjog Jakarta and I borrowed the image as I could not make it to the place.

Shown in the picture is the birth of Buddha.

If I had not mentioned about the place, then, many could easily take it for Indian Art. Just notice the striking resemblances between this image and the images seen in Indian temples.

Even culture is similar. At many places over SE Asia, greeting people with "Folded hands" is common. They eat rice and other vegetables. Traditional houses are similar to Indian dwellings.

I had been to a museum in Jakarta, and there in the displays, I happened to notice the script of Tamil as in Pallava period. The rituals followed are same as what we follow in India.

So much in common, yet so much difference. Difference in the practices of religion, dressing, all came over the time.

If a land as far as Indonesia can have so much in common, Pallavas ruled it during 12th century is a fact, but 12th century is long back, will we not have much in common with our neighbours? Those neighbours with whom we separated only 50 years back. I cant understand why the hatred is being pursued instead of brotherhood?

Personally, I would like to travel to any part in Subcontinent, without visa, safe and happily, visit all the lands where our ancestors dwelled, and make friends with the locals. Is my dream possbile to become true? Time has to reveal...

Change in Lifestyles....

2005-06-08T21:34:00.000+05:30

India is divided - not on political issues or issues of borders. But it is divided in terms of values, culture, climate, languages, etc. Division on the basis of language, climate and cultural aspects is a fact known to many. We all read during school that "India is land of diversity...", we named that division as diversity.

The difference is that this cultural diversity has increased with new variations of existing culture coming into effect as well as new definitions for age old values sprouting up. Change is seen in all areas, making this diversity a striking fact. Change is common and it is to welcomed. Else, life would be monotnous and dull. But, this change also effects human relations, thinking, it effects every walk of life.

It is this change that is seen today, making the youth confused, making the generation gap visible in people who are born with two to three years of difference, etc. Sometimes, its even spoiling the relationships with elders.

Increased death rate by heart failure in youngsters and youth due as a result of increased stress levels, increasing display of carefree attitude, loss of childhood for kids, all these are effects of change in a negative way.

Gone are the days when being a child meant enjoying the life they wish, without caring for exams or competition or high percentage or rather homework. Very few kids of today are enjoying these pleasures, pleasures that are very valuable to a kid.

Gone are the days when majority of the woman are confined to the thresholds of the house and men recognised as bread winners for the family. Roles have reversed in many families. A girl in the family reaching 18 years means its time to search for groom is a bygone in many families, yet its the situation for many a gal.

Women are reaching out to the world, extending their career, yet, there are instances of foetus deaths and child marriages. Men being subjected to harrasment is as common as women facing the harrasment. Unfortunately, only woes of a woman are spoken out and considered by many. It is still a common notion that Men are meant to be brave, never let their emotions out; Women are weak by nature, they should limit themselves to softwork.

All the above points would be the point of focus for some of my bolg entries. I have my thoughts and feelings on the above issues. Many times, I feel that we are fooling ourselves in the name of values and many times leading a wayward life on the name of freedom. I want to put my feelings and thoughts in writing. I invite discussions on these issues, cos, I believe that sharing of thoughts would always enlighten a person and an healthy argument is required in every aspect, to know the other side of the coin.

All these are my thoughts, the thoughts that crop in my mind when I think of any thing, and these include both negative and positive thinking.

Change...

2005-06-08T13:32:00.000+05:30

Now, the style of this blog would change, the change is to be seen and felt, and am not going to reveal anything. Its not going to be a drastic change, that is for sure. As a friend said some time back, "No change that comes overnight stays for ever". He also said that "Those who display drastic change should not be trusted"

There was a time when many used to say to me "Kiran, you got to change","Kiran, change this xxx habbit to yyyyy" or like that. I used to try and at the same time fail. I was getting irritated when people told me the same. Let me tell you, many of these people were my colleagues, and now I would say happily, my wellwishers and friends. I could not answer them back for two reasons: firstly the respect and high regards I hold for them and secondly some of them are my seniors, very seniors to me at work

One fine day, when yet another colleague, whom I again treat with High respect was telling me the same, I was out of control and then asked him "why is it that every one asks me to change this and change that attitude/habbit of mine. And yet, when I change, they keep on telling me the same"

Then he replied "You should never let change come in you because others want it, you should let it come because you want to. Unless you have the will to change, and the change comes naturally, it is not a change, it is an act. No change happens overnight, it is a process that takes its own time, which cannot be defined. And if a person displays a change overnight, one should never trust him"

Thanks to him and his words, I understood where I was faltering and now, I am not the same person I was 2 years before. I was not even the person I was six mnths back or one month back.

My current colleagues say that I am becoming more calm and that they cant understand the reason. I too dont know, but, one thing I understood is that I still feel the need to change and hence the slow transformation in me.

Sometimes, our innerself takes over the control of mind and drives us. And it can happen unknowingly. Whether this change is for good or bad, its time that would tell. And its the same in my situation also now. :-)

One year on Blogger

2005-06-08T13:24:00.000+05:30

Time flys very fast, and it also treasures many a moments. Its an year since I started blogging and thats where I say time flied very fast.

Many things / events happened in this year, learnt a lot of lessons, met with changes in life, got new friends, visited new places, lots and lots of things. When I think about them, I feel like, its a long long ago. But still, its like yesterday.

Thanks a ton to Blogger for helping me in discovering my self and learning things about others.

blog: Definition and Much More From Answers.com

2005-05-30T15:39:00.000+05:30

blog: Definition and Much More From Answers.com: "blog

(WeBLOG) A Web site that contains dated entries in reverse chronological order (most recent first) about a particular topic. Functioning as an online journal, blogs can be written by one person or a group of contributors. Entries contain commentary and links to other Web sites, and images as well as a search facility may also be included.

Although some blogs invite feedback and comments from visitors, Internet newsgroup discussions, which started long before the Web, tend to be more question-and-answer oriented (see newsgroup)."

Life on its way...

2005-05-26T22:23:00.000+05:30

Everyday, I find some topic on which I plan to write in this blog, and I prepare the text. The moment I come to my desk, mails will be waiting and then the task list.
Daily schedules are irritating, but, nothing could be done, as long as its the work and its what the client requires.

I made some promises to myself and some to others. I made some friends at TIG, the online community where I participate and had not yet fulfilled them. I prmised myself long time back that I would get MCAD by mid of 2005. But, not yet.

Now, apart from completing my tasks, I am working on acheiving MCAD, then, Coldfusion Certification, (aiming for advanced programmer), and then CAPM. All these by year end. I know that I need to put in lots and lots of effort and I am prepared for that.

At home, my parents are worried that I am getting too involved in my career. My friends warn me that its time to take care of my personal life also, but, frankly, I dont find any intrest in taking care of that. My parents are looking for a suitable groom and when they find one, then, the process of Indian marriage system would go.

Taking some decisions is tough and one is about marriage. So, I left it for my parents.

One thing that I am planning to do is to write some intresting stuff, stuff other than my thoughts, some thing like Rajesh Advani does. He is indeed a good writer and am sure he would become a good writer out of electronic media, if he attempts. Some may disagree with me, but it all depends on one's likes and dislikes.

I was speaking to Vinod while writing this post. Vinod is a friend of mine from TIG, and supports different organizations/causes. He is a Musician and he was telling me about the way payments are made in Music Industry. Will write about it in detail later.

Selva from Lasersoft is yet another friend, again from TIG, he is a person who has accomplished many a tasks by sheer will power. I want to write about him, but that would make a long post. I would write about him at a later date.

Thanks to TIG, I met many intresting people and got some good friends. There is a lot I need to write about them, and their activities. There are some other friends whom I met online, but never in real life. yet, they made an impact on me and my attitutde/thinking.

Time to write about all of them and would do that.

Time to leave for home and take some rest before bouncing back to work tomorrow. 10:20 PM here now and I started to write this at 4:00Pm in the evening.

What can you tell me about the first Ferris wheel?

2005-05-12T10:26:00.000+05:30

"What can you tell me about the first Ferris wheel?
Jenny
Euless, Texas

Dear Jenny:
The Ferris wheel has been a featured attraction at amusement parks and carnivals for over a century. In fact, this twirling contraption has been around for so long, it's easy to forget what an incredible feat of engineering it represented. And the story behind the first Ferris wheel is as amazing as the ride itself.
Invented by a bridge builder from Pittsburgh named George W. Ferris, the wheel first debuted at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. According to legend, the Windy City wanted an attraction that rivaled the Eiffel Tower in Paris, host to the 1889 World's Fair. Architects from all over the country submitted plans for various structures but none were thought worthy -- until Mr. Ferris scribbled down plans for a giant wheel that would spin around on its axis while carrying passengers.
Sounded good in theory, but Mr. Ferris had yet to deliver the goods. He did, and not surprisingly, the Ferris wheel was an instant hit. This article from 1893 captures the enthusiasm visitors felt for the rotating marvel calling the wheel the 'chief sensation of the World's Fair.' The most ardent admirers even went so far as to tie the knot at the attraction.
The Ferris wheel performed perfectly during its original run. It was later sold for the paltry sum of $1,800 and transferred to St. Louis. Failing to attract many riders, the wheel was blown up with 200 pounds of dynamite. A rather undignified end to what was arguably the 'World's Greatest Ride.' "

Banished Words List :: Welcome

2005-05-12T10:21:00.000+05:30

Banished Words List :: Welcome: "Lake Superior State University Banished Words List
�You�re fired!�
That�s how Lake Superior State University selected words and phrases that make up its 30th annual List of Words Banished from the Queen�s English for Mis-Use, Over-Use and General Uselessness.
A svelte word banishment committee, fresh from a low-carb diet, said the process of selecting this year�s words was an amazing journey through hundreds of nominations.
�We�re �ber-serious about this list,� said one committee member, who noted the committee would issue its list through a traditional press release rather than using a blog or webinar."

What are blogs, and how did they become so popular?

2005-05-12T10:17:00.000+05:30

What are blogs, and how did they become so popular?: "What are blogs, and how did they become so popular?
Befuddled by Blogs
Madison, Wisconsin

Dear Befuddled:
We knew that 'blog' was short for 'weblog,' so we searched on 'history of weblogs' to answer your question.
A weblog is usually defined as a personal or noncommercial web site that uses a dated log format (usually with the most recent addition at the top of the page) and contains links to other web sites along with commentary about those sites. A weblog is updated frequently and sometimes groups links by specific subjects, such as politics, news, pop culture, or computer issues.
Some people are of the opinion that Mosaic's What's New page in 1993 was the first weblog. It was essentially a list of links that a few people thought were worth passing along to others. However, it wasn't until December 1997 that Jorn Barger coined the term 'weblog' in his Robot Wisdom Weblog.
In 1998, only a handful of blogs existed, and many of the bloggers knew each other and linked to each other's sites. Rebecca Blood, author of The Weblog Handbook, notes that one preeminent site listed only 23 blogs in existence at the beginning of 1999. The media started noticing blogs later in 1999 and drew attention to the phenomenon. But it was the proliferation of free weblog-creation programs in 1999 that made blogging into a hugely popular pastime. Before this software was widely available, most weblogs were hand-coded by web developers and others who taught themselves HTML. The new programs made it easy for anyone to create their own weblog.
Blogger was released in August 1999 and was an immediate hit. This simple weblog application allows users to create any kind of weblog they desire. By October 2000, Blogger users were creating 300 new blogs a day, and the Blogger directory "

What are the seven wonders of the world?

2005-05-12T10:15:00.001+05:30

What are the seven wonders of the world?: "What are the seven wonders of the world?
Benny
Santa Rosa, California

Dear Benny:
Darn you, Benny. Why weren't you more specific? As it turns out, there are several lists of wonderful wonders -- one ancient, one modern, and one 100% natural. We'll touch on all three.
The list of seven ancient wonders was meant as a tribute to man's ability to alter the natural landscape. Interestingly, as this site points out, not all of the wonders were around at the same time. 'Even if you lived in ancient times you would have still needed a time machine to see all seven.' Today, the pyramids in Egypt are the sole survivor. Sadly, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Temple of Artemis, the Statue of Zeus, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Mausoleum of Halincarnassus, and the Colossus of Rhodes have all disappeared.
While it's unfortunate that six of the original seven have vanished, the modern world has plenty to offer. The American Society of Civil Engineers compiled a list of modern wonders that represent the 'greatest civil engineering accomplishments of the 20th century.' It includes: the Channel Tunnel, the CN Tower in Toronto, the Empire State Building, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Panama Canal, the Itaipu Dam, and the North Sea Protection Works in the Netherlands.
Finally, Mother Nature deserves a shout out. The seven wonders of the natural world are: the Grand Canyon, the Northern Lights, Mt. Everest, the Great Barrier Reef, Victoria Falls, Paricutin volcano, and the harbor at Rio de Janero. We're pretty sure these babies aren't going anywhere. "

Does a blood transfusion change your DNA?

2005-05-12T10:15:00.000+05:30

Does a blood transfusion change your DNA?: "Dear Yahoo!:
Does a blood transfusion change your DNA?
Lori
Evart, Michigan

Dear Lori:
The short answer is 'no,' and the longer answer is 'no way.' We assembled our own little blog of blood to explain, drawing from a San Diego Union Tribune column, a posting on the MadSci Network, and several other sources.
It seems blood is composed of four main elements: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. And, indeed, white blood cells do contain DNA. However, most blood transfusions involve only red blood cells, which do not contain DNA. And even in a rare whole blood transfusion, no traces of foreign DNA from the white blood cells have been detected in a recipient's blood.
On the other hand, there is at least one situation in which a transplant can change your DNA. After a bone marrow transplant, the DNA in a blood sample may actually reflect the donor rather than the recipient. That's because in this case, blood stem cells are transferred. The recipient will produce blood that contains the donor's cellular elements but almost none of his or her own DNA. And yes, this would affect DNA blood evidence (though there are other ways to test for DNA.)
Then there's the even rarer case of blood being transferred due to the anti-social behavior of vampires. But that's a whole other ball of serum"

Is there a national standard for the number of school days per year?

2005-05-12T10:14:00.000+05:30

Is there a national standard for the number of school days per year?: "Dear Yahoo!:
Is there a national standard for the number of school days per year?
Poindexter
Front of the Class

Dear Poindexter:
If you're asking about the United States, the answer is no. The U.S. government doesn't require a certain number of school days per year. Each state determines school-year length on its own.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, American schools average 180 days of instruction per year. That figure includes public and private schools at both the elementary and secondary levels.
A July 2004 report (MS Word document) from the Education Commission of the States lists each state's school-year requirements. Thirty states have 180-day school years, two have school years longer than 180 days, and 11 have school years shorter than 180 days. Minnesota is the only state that doesn't require a set number of days or instructional hours for schools. Each district can dictate its own school year.
Many countries have longer school years than the U.S. According to a UNESCO study of 43 countries, 33 of them have school years longer than 180 days. Some go as many as 220 days per year. Whether or not the number is nationally mandated varies from country to country. "

Why don't school buses have seat belts?

2005-05-12T10:11:00.000+05:30

Why don't school buses have seat belts?: "Why don't school buses have seat belts?
Otto

Dear Otto:
Two things all moms tell their kids -- don't smoke and always wear a seat belt. No problem on the not smoking, Ma -- but wearing a seat belt on the school bus? That's rarely an option. So what's the story? Shouldn't school buses have the same safety features as cars, trucks, and SUVs?
Well, not necessarily. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration argues that seat belts aren't the most effective way to protect passengers on school buses. Instead the big yellow beasts employ something called 'compartmentalization.'
Think back to your days on the good ol' school bus. Remember how those rigid green seats were wedged closer together than on even the cheapest no-frills airline? That's compartmentalization in action. Sitting in 'strong, closely-spaced seats that have energy-absorbing high seat backs,' passengers are effectively protected from crashes. Of course, the method can't prevent all injuries, but the NHTSA argues it's the best possible solution. Several studies have shown seat belts would provide 'little, if any, added protection.'
School districts are permitted to add seat belts to buses, but they also must make sure the seat belts are used properly. And as anyone who's ever ridden on a bus full of elementary school children knows, that's no easy task.
Even so, plenty of folks feel seat belts on school buses should be mandatory. The National Coalition for School Bus Safety believes compartmentalization doesn't protect against 'rear-end, lateral and rollover collisions.' And they contend that seat belts are affordable, even for cash-strapped school districts. "

Has anyone ever tried putting on a costume to be a real superhero?

2005-05-12T10:10:00.000+05:30

Has anyone ever tried putting on a costume to be a real superhero?: "Has anyone ever tried putting on a costume to be a real superhero?
Cory
Seatac, Washington

Dear Cory:
OK, first off, can we all agree that moms, firefighters, and teachers are not superheroes? Sure they're great, but they don't don capes and assume secret identities. So let's take a cheese-free approach to the question. Surprisingly, even with our cold-hearted restrictions, the answer is still 'yes' -- more than a few 'normal folks' have tried their hands at masked avenging.
The most famous real world hero is probably Angle-Grinder Man from the U.K. His mission is simple -- to help distressed motorists remove the dreaded 'boot' from their cars. Those whose cars are being held captive by the government only need call the man, and he quickly appears in costume, ready to free the ride with his enchanted tool belt. Not exactly legal, but hey, Batman doesn't always play by the rules, either.
While he's arguably the most celebrated, there are others -- for example, Terrifica. Dressed in scarlet spandex and a Valkyrie-style bra, this New Yorker has sworn an oath to make sure women who've had too much to drink aren't taken advantage of. With a blinding flash of crimson, she storms bars, tells preying Casanovas to scram, and walks the drunken damsel in distress home so she might live to drink another day.
Other masked wonders include the snow-shoveling Polarman and Superbarrio, possibly the first social activist who wishes to remain anonymous.
While few have actually witnessed these heroes out prowling the streets, their legends still cast an impressive shadow. Criminals and metermaids beware! "

Laughter is Good For Us

2005-05-05T14:24:00.000+05:30

Laughter is Good For Us: "Laughter is Good For Us
Intuitively, we know that laughter is good for us. Think for a moment how your body feels whenever you laugh or smile - words like �relaxed�, �warm�, �whole�, �free� and �light-hearted� often come to mind. Trust your inner-tuition! Laughter, happiness and a joyful heart really do offer a medicinal, therapeutic touch. It is as if health, happiness, humour and a sense of wholeness are a wonderful string quartet that plays a healing harmony and a marvellous melody. "

I felt like I was under stress, considering the way I am behaving with others over the past few days. I dont smoke or drink for someone to give me an advice for doing that. They are a strict NO for me.

I was searching for some good ways through which I can feel relaxed. And I came across this.

This is indeed a good site and we can get a lot of resources for daily routine at office.

btw, I realised that if I can bring that lost smile back onto my face, I can feel relaxed. but, to deal with people and release the stress, let me find out a way

Who is the highest-ranking female official in the Catholic Church?

2005-05-02T17:39:00.000+05:30

Who is the highest-ranking female official in the Catholic Church?: "Dear Yahoo!:
Who is the highest-ranking female official in the Catholic Church, and what is her title?
Timothy
San Diego, California
Dear Timothy:
Bishops, archbishops, and cardinals traditionally fill the Vatican's most important roles. Because women can't be ordained priests in the Catholic Church, the hierarchy's top positions aren't available to them. About 400 women work at the Vatican, but the majority of them are in administrative or clerical positions. In the U.S., about 48% of the administrative diocesan jobs are held by women.

So are any women near the top? A few. Mary Ann Glendon has been called 'the highest-ranking woman in the Catholic Church' by one archbishop. Glendon is a Harvard law professor, and in 2004, Pope John Paul II appointed her president of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences. This group studies economics, sociology, law, and political science to help the pontiff develop the church's social doctrines. Many consider Glendon to be the highest-ranking female adviser in the Catholic Church.

The most senior nun is probably Sister Enrica Rossana. In 2004, she became the third-ranking official in the Vatican office governing men and women in religious orders. No woman had held this post since it was created in the 16th century.

Also in 2004, the first-ever female theologians were appointed to the Vatican's International Theological Commission. Sister Sara Butler and Barbara Hallensleben are members of the most important theology group in Rome, one which former Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, presided over for more than two decades."

StumbleUpon Reviews

2005-04-30T17:52:00.000+05:30

StumbleUpon Reviews: "StumbleUpon is a network of people and pages. It is a free tool which helps you browse, review and share webpages while meeting new people."

Encyclopedia Mythica: Hindu mythology

2005-04-30T16:18:00.000+05:30

Encyclopedia Mythica: Hindu mythology: "Hindu mythology

by Bernard Doyle

The Hindus have created a rich, complex mythology which is still very much alive. Hundreds of millions of people continue to believe in the multitudes of gods which inhabit the Hindu pantheon. This tapestry of religion is the result of millennia of integration. The Indian sub-continent has been a crossroad for several cultures, and the Indian people have incorporated numerous ideas from different faiths."

I was searching for some extensions for firefox and came across one for Stumble. This is a tool bar in Firefox that helps you in reaching across different sites on internet, based on ur intrests. Mythology, being a favorite subject of mine, I went for that and in the search, I came across this site. This site lists mythology of different races.

I got to study the articles on this, for the above article, though informative is also going against certain established beliefs. Initial reaction is "no, it cant be", but then, another thought made me to think rational. Let me read and give my reviews here

Working from new office

2005-04-29T15:50:00.000+05:30

Finally, we shifted to the new compound and this is much spacious and bigger than the old one. We have everything seggregated according to team. And even things are falling place for me at work with the client.

Time to spend more time on learning as well as work.

Working late

2005-04-22T01:17:00.000+05:30

These days, due to work pressure, I am not getting time to make any entries, stay in touch with friends or any side activity apart from work.

Its becoming common for me to sit late at night and leave in the morning. Soemtimes, I sit for work, sometimes, sicne it became late and I cant get any transportation, I had to sit late and leave in morning.

when I sit late, people start gasping, you are a gal/lady, you got to leave early. you cant sit late blah blah blah. If I start late from work place, then I get the comments, you cant go out late at night, you ae lady, chennai is not safe at night times, blah blah blah.

And then my parents call me and tell me you got to leave your job if you want to sit late, you have to get married and our culture doesnt accept this.

God, I donno how many things I have to hear everyday. I have some goals and plans. To reach them, I got to prove that I am capable of doing anything. And its common to get hurdles at workplace, for some reason we will be having problems. And while the job is to deal with clients, we will be having more pressure than usual. Cos, we have to meet the expectations of both the management and the client. If anyone is not satisfied, life is nothing but hell.

And I am facing similar situation, to comeout of it, I need to put in extra effort. And for that I need to sit late. They dont understand this and say if you want, you work from home.

Well, if I am put up with parents or if I am on my own/place I can set according to my wish, I can do as I wish. I am put up with my aunt, whose relatives also stay in same compound. Though she takes care to provide me with good comfort and food, as well as keep track of my well being and some minor tasks, there are some limitations that could not be explained. Cos of them, I feel uncomfortable. But, still I stay there, cos of her. She is my aunt and I cant hurt her.

Now that we are shifting to a new office, I am thinking that if the distance increases, I will look for an apartment near office and shift.

let me see.

A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever from Book 1 of Endymion by John Keats:

2005-03-04T14:51:00.000+05:30

A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever from Book 1 of Endymion by John Keats:: "A thing of beauty is a joy for ever:
Its loveliness increases; it will never
Pass into nothingness; but still will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.
Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o'er-darkened ways
Made for our searching: yes, in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
From our dark spirits. Such the sun, the moon,
Trees old, and young, sprouting a shady boon
For simple sheep; and such are daffodils
With the green world they live in; and clear rills
That for themselves a cooling covert make
'Gainst the hot season; the mid-forest brake,
Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms:
And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read:
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven's brink."

I was actually checking for an online version of Mark Twain's "Adventure's of Huckleberry Finn" and then came to the above site. I wanted to pass on the url to a friend who never heard about the book as well as the character.

Then, I browsed the site and when I found a poem by Keats on the famous phrase, I could not resist my self from blogging it. Above is an excerpt from the original poetry.

The above site also provides lot of information on many great writers and poets and check it out if you happen to be a literature buff.

Alastair Campbell on Blogspot

2005-03-03T15:27:00.000+05:30

BBC NEWS | Politics | Profile: Alastair Campbell: "Profile: Alastair Campbell
Alastair Campbell
Alastair Campbell gave up drink and took up marathon running
Arguably he has been the most famous press secretary the UK has ever seen.

Mr Campbell was appointed as Tony Blair's official spokesman in 1994.

From then up until the announcement that he was leaving his government post, the two men were regarded as so close that his words have often been interpreted as carrying the full authority of Mr Blair.

With his decision to quit the prime minister has lost a man totally devoted to his cause.

Despite opting for a more behind the scenes role as communications chief in recent times, Mr Campbell has proved that he is capable of making the news in his own right.

Speculation over his future began around the time of his appearance, this summer, before MPs investigating whether the government exaggerated the case for invading Iraq."

For those intrested, his blog can be found on Blogspot at Alastair Campbell

Spamming one's own Blog!!!!.. Where is blogging leading to?

2005-03-03T15:06:00.000+05:30

I was navigating through the blogspot using the "Next Blog" link and then I came across this site:

http://safetyresources.blogspot.com/

Its having many entries with same content and seeing the profile url, I peeped in. I was surprised to find many blogs created by the user, all having a single entry repeated many times. A blogger spamming his own blogs! or rather misusing the blogspot service. I donno.

Edit: Found some more blogs:

http://dietandweightlossdirectory.blogspot.com/
In the process of navigating, I found some blogs that exhibit prono stuff. God, Where is this concept of Blogging leading to?

Now, I am going to read the Terms and conditions of Blogspot carefully so that I can point them these sites. If anyone knows anything, please do let me know.

There are some good blogs, I will post a separate entry for them.

Yet another good read from Rajesh Advani

2005-03-01T20:27:00.000+05:30

These days I find reading other blogs intresting, particularly, ones like Rajesh's. There are many out in the internet, but, this is one I am reading regularly. I guess others mayalso like this.

Am I a plagiarist

2005-02-21T09:33:00.000+05:30

These days, I had been reading a lot of articles on Plagiarism in blogs and internet and sometimes, I wonder whether I am one of those Plagiarists.

Today, I got the confirmation that I am indeed one of them, knowingl or unknowingly, I did become a plagiarist.

Well, let me enlighten you more on this.

Recently, I started posting some entries at Indus Nexus and also gave an entry for Just Another Love Story. It was Rajesh who pointed out that he is the author of the story and also a pointer to the original source.

Now, after this, I feel that I am indded one of the plagiarists and I feel bad about it. I should not have been first of all, but, then, I gave many entries here from the emails I received. If I found a site or an intresting article on my own, I always made it a point to point to the original author and anything thats not pointed to the author is the one that I either received by email or wrote on my own. The latter are few.

But, its a decision made today that no more entries will be done based on the articles I get in email. If I do, I will make it a point to mention that its through email that I got it.

Also, I would be glad to give credits to the original authors for the entries in my blogs. If anyone of you happen to be the author, please do turn up and make an entry in my blog so that I can give credits to you.

And my sincere apologies to Rajesh for the inconvenience.

Dan Brown - Davinci Code, Angels and Demons, Deception Point

2005-02-16T20:59:00.000+05:30

I am very fanatic when it comes to reading, the moment I catch hold of a book, I never set it aside till I complete it. And these days I am reading a lot, compared to the same time an year back, looks like I am falling back into my habbit and also learning to manage my time well. I was a book worm as a child and stopped reading for a long time in between.

Well, I first happened to read DaVinci Code, after hearing from many friends and then also my fellow blogging friends. I still remember the feelings that I had when I completed the book and the first thing I did in the morning was to search Internet for information on all the points mentioned by Dan Brown. Not only that, I came to know the more appropriate meaning for Pagan, and now, I would not hesitate to say that the so called Hinduism is nothing but another form of Pagan System.

When I came across Deception Point, another book from DanBrown, I started reading it. Intrestingly, I found very few similarities in the style of writing. But, one striking thing is the effort the author has put in to get to know the facts and the skill with whch he has woven the story is remarkable. But, I couldnot find it as intresting as Davinci Code.

I came across another book in the market, I found the same book with an uncle and asked him to Lend it. Instead, he gave me Angels and Demons and asked me to read it first. That book is said to be a prequel for Davinci code, the first Adventure of Robert Langdon.

This one again took me by awe, the way the story was woven, the information about CERN, Illuminati, the description of the events at Vatican City, just great.

Now, I am waiting to lay my hands on his latest book.

thats all for now

Donkey and the Carrot

2005-02-11T14:40:00.000+05:30

Filipo really enjoyed helping his father in the flour mill. He led the donkey up to the millstone, tied it securely, fixed over its head a stick, at the end of which he suspended the proverbial carrot.

After that, he only had to give the donkey a couple of shoves to start it moving.

From morning to evening the animal circled slowly following the carrot, while Filipo daydreamed, leaning up against bags of flour. His father Ernesto carried the sheaves of corn to the barn and spent time checking the wheels of the huge mill.

The young boy's donkey was very reliable, and day after day it plodded fruitlessly after the carrot that it would never get.

One evening when the exhausted donkey had finished its last circle and Filipo was helping his father arrange the bags of flour, he said thoughtfully:

"Look at this foolish donkey, going around and around day in and day out in the heat, without food or drink, trying to reach a carrot that it has no hope of getting. I will never be like that."

Filipo's father dropped his last sack, put his hands on his hips and eyed his son,

"Do you think we are so different from the donkey? We work equally hard from morning until night. Then we return home, eat some food and go to bed where we dream that with a little luck, life will be a little easier tomorrow; that fortune will smile on us and that we won't have to work anymore.

But in the morning with our aching backs and our tired hands, we understand just how far away the carrot is, and just how long it will be before we reach it."

..........................................

Is our society any different from the theme of this short story? We chase success relentlessly, to fulfil our desires for wealth and comfort.

The carrot?

The wonderful advertisements, the fabulous shop windows and the salesmen encouraging us to consume.

Wouldn't it be worth minimizing our ambitions and desires so that we could have the possibility of satisfying them - and actually GET the carrot?

(again from Club Positif)

Positive Club

2005-02-11T14:11:00.000+05:30

Positive Club: Free ebooks (practical and inspirational guides) and stories on self-growth & self-improvement (motivation, self-esteem), plus topics such as Health, Optimism, Creativity, Success, Stress & more !

I use this to get some guidance and inspiration when in need....

Strange Glow

2005-02-11T14:05:00.000+05:30

2 boys, in their early teens were hiking through a wooded area on the way back to their small village when they discovered a cave that a hermit made home.

They had traveled very far and still had a long way to go before they returned home. They were hungry and tired and looking for a place to stay for the night.

When they saw the hermit, they started to run off.

He beckoned to them to stay for a while. He didn't get many visitors and enjoyed company when the opportunity permitted. They started to make an excuse, but he persuaded them to stay.

So he invited them to dinner, and asked them of their journey and of the people and things they've encountered. The two boys enjoyed talking to the old man and were glad they had stayed. The food was very good and they were warm.

After the old man cleaned up from dinner, they sat around the fire, drank tea and continued to talk. The old man then said, "I have something for you boys."
and went off into the cave.

He came back out with a very old wooden box.
He sat down between the boys on the grounding crossing his legs in front of him. He placed the box in his lap and then looked first at the boy on his right, then turned to look at the boy on his left.

They both smiled as he looked at them and wondered what could be in the box.

He lifted the latch and slowly opened the box. To the amazement of both boys, they saw a strange glowing force. I was vaguely ball shaped, yet had no apparent substance. However, the old man lifted it out of the box and held it in his hand.

"Here" he said, "I want both of you to have some of this" and he broke two large pieces off, leaving a very small piece, which he put back into the box. He then gave each piece of the strange mysterious object to the boys.

One of the boys said, "You have given us so much, that you have little left"

The man replied, "It will grow back.

" He then added,

"This is a very magical and powerful thing that I give to you. For if you break off a piece and give it to everyone you meet it will grow. If you do not give it away it will shrink and eventually fade away to nothing."

The boys looked at each other with an expression of doubt and skepticism in their faces. But they were appreciative and thanked the man. It had already been arranged that they would spend the night and boys went off to bed.

The next morning, the smell of breakfast woke the two boys. Knowing they had to leave, the Hermit prepared a simple meal that would hold them until they could return home later in the afternoon. He let them refill their water and gave them some jerky in case the breakfast wasn't enough. They thanked him again and were on their way.

Once the boys got home, they told their families of the man and the strange gift they had each been given.
Both boys made boxes for their gift. The first boy did as the stranger suggested and gave a piece of his to each of this family. The other boy did not. He kept it to himself and refused to give any of it away, even when asked for some.

As the years went by, each boy would show this gift to everyone they would meet. All who saw it marveled at it The first boy continued to give part of his away and over the years it had grown and grown. Several times, he had made larger and larger boxes to keep it in. He gave it to everyone he met, including business associates, strangers and even the woman who became his wife. Each time, he told the story of the hermit and the cave and passed along the instructions to share this fascinating gift. Eventually, his had grown so much that he could not contain it, it consumed his home, his neighborhood and the entire countryside. In fact, he couldn't travel away from it. It seemed to always be around him.

The other did not, he kept his all to himself. He would show it to strangers and when they asked about it or tried to touch it, he would slam the lide shut on the box and return it to it's shelf. He did not realize that each time he held it back without giving a piece of it away, it would get smaller. Eventually, he went to the box and opened it, to find that his gift had disappeared. One day he happened to meet the other who was with him that day they received the gift.

He was somewhat resentful when they met. The man who had always given his away, stood tall and had the look of a successful business man, while he looked old and tired. Still, the successful man, asked him how he's been all these years and was genuinely intersted in hearing his stories. But the second man bitterly stated, "I regret the day that old fool gave us that horrible thing. It's done nothing but wreck my life. After all these years, someone broke into my room and stole it, but I'm glad to be rid it of it.
It's caused me nothing but misery"

"I don't understand." said the first man. "Did you not give it away as the hermit suggested?"

"I did not for if I had done that, I wouldn't have any left for myself"

"But now it's gone anyway, isn't it?" said the first man. "Here I will give you a piece of mine and you can have another start. You see, this gift we were given such a long time ago was not mysterious at all. What it is, is FRIENSHIP and you have to give it away to get some back in return."

Story written by Bob, a Positive-Club member, as it was told him by a scout master. Thank you Bob for sharing it.

Greatness of so called Housewife ... Mother

2005-02-04T14:12:00.000+05:30

received in mail....

What am I? Housewife, Mother, What?

Anonymous

A few months ago, when I was picking up the children at school, another mother I knew well rushed up to me. Emily was fuming with indignation. "Do you know what you and I are?" she demanded.

Before I could answer, and I didn't really have one handy, she blurted out the reason for her question. It seemed she had just returned from renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk's office. Asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation, Emily had hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.

"What I mean is," explained the recorder, "Do you have a job, or are you just a .....?"

"Of course I have a job," snapped Emily. "I'm a mother."

"We don't list 'mother' as an occupation...'housewife' covers it," said the
recorder emphatically.

I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our own Town Hall.

The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high-sounding title like Official Interrogator or Town Registrar.

"And what is your occupation?" she probed.

What made me say it, I do not know. The words simply popped out.

"I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations." The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair, and looked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly, emphasizing the most significant words.

Then I stared with wonder as my pompous pronouncement was written in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.

"Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what you do in your field?"

Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing program of research (what mother doesn't) in the laboratory and in the field (normally I would have said indoors and out).

I'm working for my Masters (the whole darned family) and already have four credits (all daughters)."

"Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day (24 is more like it).

But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are in satisfaction rather than just money." There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood up, and personally ushered me to the door.

As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants - ages 13, 7, and 3. Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model (6 months) in the child-development program, testing out a new vocal pattern.

I felt triumphant! I had scored a beat on bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another mother." Motherhood...what a glorious career. Especially when there's a title on the door.

Long time

2005-01-13T20:49:00.000+05:30

It has been a really long time since I blogged and there were many reasons for the same. Now, its time for me to get back into action and there are a lot of things that I would like to write.

First, please note the entry below. The child's details, I received them through email and I posted them here so that anyone who sees the child can forward it and help the child in reaching his family.

this Kid is in Thailand, at a hospital in Phuket and is estranged from his parents. Anyone who loves to help this kid, they can take the details from here and forward them or if they want to have the original mail, please mail me so that I can forward the mail to you.

I request each and everyone who comes across this blog to take note of this. Also, if anyone knows any other info about this kid, please do let me know so that I can update the entry accordingly.

Then, my sincere and heart felt condolences to all those who lost their familes, near and dear in the Tsunami that rocked the world. I am too late in responding here, but, I dont feel bad for that, for I had been doing my part of work already.

I happened to change my job, relocate, and then the new work has kept me pretty busy with tight schedules. Now that I am almost into the work, time for me to resume my activbities.

Please keep on reading this blog for more information and views.

Thanks for reading...!!!

Help this little Chap

2005-01-12T20:42:00.000+05:30

This child has missed its parents in the Tsunami incident. just keep passing this, somewhere this child's parents might come to know the whereabouts of this child
Please send this to everyoneman you know, as we don’t have anything to lose. Atleast the boy might regain his family! Looking for his family.

The boy about 2 years, from Khoa Lak is missing his parents.Nobody knows what country he comes from.
If anyboy known him please contactus by phone 076-249400-4 ext. 1336, 1339 or e- mail :info@phuket-inter-hospital.co.th

Aftermath of DaVinci Code

2004-11-25T06:15:00.000+05:30

When I read DaVinci Code, I was so curious and excited that I searched the net for info and posted a blog immediately. But then, like many other things, the initial excitement died soon. It doesnt mean that there are no questions now, I do still have them, but only the excitement has been lost.

I was relocating after that and the process of relocating and then getting adjusted to a new place with a different language, thats taking its time and I couldnot post anything for quite few days.

When I read Davinci Code, I was totally unaware of its contents. But reading it has helped me in a way, to think different from the conventional way of thinking. Some have reacted to my earlier post. I thank them for taking their time offf to post their views. These comments have given me a new way to analyse my thoughts. I had decided at the time of writing that post only, that I should be able to take people's reaction in a cool way. Hence, I couldnot get any sort of feeling.

I was discussing this book with some colleagues and many took it the way they take other books, saying a book of fiction needs to be treated that way. But, some have shown a different reaction. Many couldnot bear the thought that Jesus might have been married.

I dont say them wrong, but there are certain things which we dont know and to stick to a single thought for such things is not my way. hence I found it amusing. All these books have been written or carried over by word of mouth. We have seen many instances of Historical data being rewritten to suit the convenience. And its a well known fact that a word tends to get distorted after going through a number of people. (Telephone game that children pla is a good example for that). I am sure many might have experienced the scenario where they receive the message they sent originally, some times in a mutiliated form.

All this does not mean to support the thought, but, there are chances that the truth for many things might be different from what we know today. And sometimes, the truth can be proved and some times not. But in allc ases, the people who were present at the time might know the truth, I say might cos there are certain classic cases where people who were present on the scene of happening does not know what happened exactly.

Anyway, its Time that has to cooperate with all the historians who are trying to find the truth, truth for many controversial issues and I wish them good luck.

Da Vinci Code

2004-10-22T22:58:00.000+05:30

Yesterday, I was reading Da Vinci Code. I heard about the book, and brought it, but never spent on it. but, when I opened it yesterday, I couldnot sleep till I completed it.

The book was very intresting in two ways:
1. The Subject, related to religion and challenging of many established notions. * why I said notions, instead of facts, I will reveal later
2. Use of Cryptology and Matematics in the chase

Though I am called a Hindu by religion, by birth, I studied in different missionary schools, Ramakrishna Mission, Nirmalite Convents (HQ at Vatcian City, under direct influence of Pope) and some other schools. And by nature, I am intrested in history and read a lot to know things about different places.

These schools did have their effect on me, I came to know about Jesus, the differences between Catholics and protestants, the different Aspects of Hinduism, and many things. I am still a Hindu, but I learnt to enjoy the good things of other religions. This is something about me. I am telling this as the topic that I am dealing with today is avery controversial and but this is to not to hurt any one, just a quest to find the answers for questions boggling me for a while.

As a student, I learnt about the European history and also read a great deal from the Graduation books, borrowing others books. The following are the issues that have been bothering me for a long long time...

1. When we speak about Christ, we never mention that Christ is a Bachelor. Is he married or Unmarried
2. What is the role of Christ's 12 Apostles in the time after his crucification?
3. Why are two Testaments present, Old and New and why do they differ in different aspects
4. Is Jesus having any siblings
5. Where did he spend the time that he was reported to be disappearing from the Roman Empire. I read that he was seen as a young kid and then as a youngman, there is no description of his teenage.

The above are based on Bible, while the below are based on the incidents described by Historians
1.Wy did Renaissance Happen
2. Why should the Church get divided into two, Catholic and Protestant
3. What exactly were the resaons behind the various major incidents that rocked Europe from 14th century to 18th Century, Like changes in ruler of Throne of England, various movements, etc

So many things that I cant explain here. Yesterday, when I was reading the book, I was first Startled. And then it became intresting.

The book propagates a theory that Jesus was indeed married and that the whore mentioned in Biblical verses, Mary is none other than his wife, etc. It also mentioned that both Jesus and Mary belonged to a Royal Bloodline and that the line is still continuing to date.

And the proceedings of the book went on to describe about Holy Grail, Mary and her successors and the chase was an attempt to find the Holy Grail and see that its intact, untouched by people and thus hiding the secret.

The use of Crypto Analysis in finding the clues is really great and Author needs to be applauded for that.
I was still skeptical whther the contents were true or not, but then to my astonishment, when I ran a quick search in Google, I did find that many were true. The book is not completely true, it seems to be part fiction, giving asubstansial support to the notion that Jesus was married.

Please read this here to know about Priory Sion, the secret society to which Leonardo Da Vinci is said to have been a Grandmaster. And BBC is running a show on the same.

After reading all these, my doubts have increased and now, I am in a quest to find the truth, the truth behind all these things.

History is always intriguing on its part, and History is nothing but the documented version of a person or more that one person's life, either by themselves or others. history can be tweaked to suit the needs of the hour. To prove what we say, we need documented support.

And I am aare that this quest is no ending, considring the above facts. But, yes, I will do my best to find what ever I can.

I made some intresting points while reading the book, and I will present them slowly here.

Again, if my views hurt anyone, either those expressed here or those that I a m going to do, please excuse me, These are purely my personal views. If you wish to make any comments, please leave them here.

Management Joke

2004-10-20T22:07:00.000+05:30

Management JokeOne person comes to a farmer and says that he wants some work and he is without food for the last two days. The farmer replies that he wants a hard working person. The person says, ‘ I am prepared to do any work’. The farmer takes him to his farm and tells him to shift a haystack from one place to another. The farmer thinks that if he can do it by evening, then he is a good worker. Then the farmer goes off to do his other work. When the farmer comes for lunch, the person has finished the job. The farmer says, ‘you are hired’.Next day he takes him to his other field. He tells him that it’s a sloping field and he has to dig up and spread the soil so as to level it. The farmer estimates that this will require two days. By evening, our efficient farm hand has finished the job.On the third day, the farmer gives him a sack of potatoes and says, ‘ Some of the potatoes are rotting. Please segregate the good ones and bad ones.’The farmer calculates that by lunch time the job should be done.When he comes back at lunch time, he is surprised to see the sack is nearly full, there are two small heaps of good and bad potatoes and the fellow is sitting there holding his head in his hands.‘Come on, what happened now, what’s the problem?’‘Sir, I am prepared to do any amount of hard work. But don’t ask me to do any decision making!’

My fav game - Blogshares

2004-10-16T20:39:00.000+05:30

Some time back, I was searching for a generous soul to give me a gmail invitation. was really desperate then to get one and in the search, came to Blogshares. I landed at the forum and then through the forum, I came to main site.

At first, I didnt understand what it is, but later understood that it is some game. Being a curious person, I decided to register and check it out and thus I entered the site with my name and initial balance of 500B$. I was trying to figure out the game in midst of work, and was able to make some small profits. Suddenly, one morning I found my self 30times rich and when I checked, I found that a Generous player, "Mars/irissecurities" gifted me some shares and then brought them using something called as artefact. Artefact, well something new I thought and then proceeded to discover the new things at Site. Then, slowly I grasped the game and now, I am in top 200.

Hey, I ought to give thanks to Laila for her tips and trades. She gave me a good leap in the game. Above All, I should give a special thanks to BSEC. In the month of August, during Mid August to be precise, I was suspended from game, cos, the Cheaty Pants System discovered that a single player is playing game using two different ids. Hence, I was suspended. I first got angry, then I realised the actual issue, and when I explained it to the BSEC, they accepted it and restored my status to normal. MrPilot is the one who helped me out, in the sense that his answers made me maintain my coolness. And its 'C' who supported my clarification. Thanks MrP and C.

The period of suspension has actually helped me in observing the game more clearly and also know people like Raymond, Admiral_Justin, IslandDave, JustJames, MrPilot, Arvind, Laila, RWO, MLT. My next step was to enter IRC for Blogshares. Through IRC, I came to know these people more and also Jay (Jay Campbell), AlanDean, SubWolf, KyRahJade,Eli,Linn, imsaguy, VillageIdiot and sprimal. I am still learning about them. But, yes, I do enjoy the chats and wait to have a good chat with them everyday. One more reason is that I wanna appear in ChanStats.

ChanStats are the statistics taken out of the real time chat and are really funny sometimes. The other day, AJ was showing me the lst for previous year and he is the topper with many lines last year. This year, I suspect that Raymond is going to takeover. Till now, he has been having high stats for uite sometime, from the time he joined. Soon, he may go to top, thats what I feel. Both of these as well as others are ready to help and once they know the person, the way they answer is different. How come I forgot about Arvind, the teenage guy from Dubai. He has been a member of BSEC and also a member of other teams. Recently, he quit BS for school, but is still a memberof IRC and is a cool chap.

Dave is the one who actually made me write this piece, cos he announced some contest and offered Premier Membership for the top three. And this is an effort to get it. Dave, I am writing here, and hope that it comes to the standards that you have set. Jay is the owner of this site and he takes the help of other members in running and maintaining this. He is asking us to take premier membership for supporting the bandwidth, and Jay, I promise that I would take one soon. Dave also happens to be the Leader of the Editing team and to be a member of that team, I should impress Dave first. I wanna be part of it and donno how I can do that soon?

I am really impressed by the skills of Alan. He is the main member of Math Team, the team that takes care of all validations at the site. Alan, three cheers to your skills. I wish I concetrated more on Maths instead of Computing Skills :(

Earlier,I used to spend my leisure time at various technical sites, but now, this is taking away most of time. I am getting addicted to this more and more. By the way, did I tell you what this iste is all about? This is a fictious Share market, where Blogs are treated as companies and categoriesed into differnt inndstries. Each blog generates some ideas for the industries its voted into (voting is again done by the members, moderated by the moderators). Generation of ideas is taken care by the Industry Moguls. If you own 10000 Ideas in any industry that has an artefact defined, you can create an artefact and then play game in a different level. The whole game depends on the values of Ideas, the share prices and the blogs. Voting gives you karma and chips and after reaching a certian level in karma, you can become a moderator.

RWO has started a charity on the name of Blogshares, to support the cause of children in need using the Chips, ideas and monetary cash donated by the generous players . Laila has joined him in his efforts. She is a mother of two grown up kids. A child from Phllipines is already taken care of. I hope and wish that this project would go ahead and be a success. If this game can help some needy souls, that is really great. Good Luck RWO and Laila in your efforts and I would do all that I can do for the cause.

Hey, do you guys see the Tagboard here? Its an enhanced one, which I got for free, thanks to Jay. Jay runs some raffle at BS and we have to use the chips to participate in the raffle. I am lucky to get a Tagboard, which I can use for one year :). Thanks Jay.

There is a lot to say , but then there should be a limit and hence I am closing this here. Thanks Folks for reading this patiently and please leave ur comments here. I wanna know ur feedback, on the topic as well as my style of writing.

Service Tax

2004-10-11T16:55:00.000+05:30

Today, I was writing cheques to pay the insurance premia for myself and my sister. Then, Dad who has been observng me, told me to add 10.2% extra amount o te premium instalment that I am paying.

I was surprised and then asked im, why. Its then I realised that becos of the latest changes in Service Tax policies by Indian government, we ahve to pay service tax for Inusrance Premium also. This is really scary. The otherday I noticed my Banker charging me service tax for some of the services used by me. I was wondering why. I questioned my dad the same. He works for a Bank and when he explained me the whole fundoo behind this service tax, I opened my mouth in surprise. Cos, we are paying service tax more than once for every good we purchase and with the latest changes, we are paying large amounts towards it.

when people who are good at finance rule the nation, they always device ways to gather money from the public. My Mom was complaining for few days that the prices of consumables went up sharply and suddenly. Tamarind, which used to around 55/kg is now around 100/kg and many things like this.

I wonder when we can get back to normal life and that stays a wonder. Things always go up, but never down. Rising Cost of Petrol/Gas and Diesel, cosnumables, Fares, everything on rise except the salaries which stay the same. And companies are becoming smart that they try to decrease he salary on the name of brand.

The surprising element is that Inflation is shown to be going down. I cant understand how? Can anyone explain this logic??????

Ask Yahoo - Bermuda Triangle

2004-09-10T23:15:00.000+05:30

The Bermuda Triangle is formed by the Bermuda Islands, southern Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. A number of ships and aircraft have vanished without a trace while passing through this area. National Geographic Magazine says it's the world's greatest modern mystery.
On January 8, 1962, a KB-50 aerial tanker disappeared over the Triangle. The press claimed the plane crashed headlong into the sea, but later reports disproved the media's account. No single piece of evidence was found. This wasn't the first spooky disappearance. The craft and crew of Flight 19 in 1945 and the NC-16002 in 1948 shared similar fates.
Numerous theories have attempted to explain the strange phenomenon. According to the magnetic variation theory, the Bermuda Triangle (one of two places on Earth where a magnet compass points true north) causes navigational instruments to go haywire and send crafts off course. Other theories claim the Triangle is a gateway to alien worlds. Still others claim the area also known as the "Devil's Triangle" is a time warp.

Office Wisdom ...a must readddddd

2004-08-21T14:09:00.000+05:30

1. Eagles may soar high, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.

2. Lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part.

3. There may be no 'I' in team, but there's a 'ME' if you look hard enough.

4. Process and Procedure are the last hiding place of people without the wit and wisdom to do their job properly.

5. Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.

6. Never do today that which will become someone else's responsibility tomorrow.

7. Every time you open your mouth you have this wonderful ability to continually confirm what I think.

8. Show me a good loser and I'll show you a LOSER!

9. Put the key of despair into the lock of apathy. Turn the knob of mediocrity slowly and open the gates of despondency - welcome to a day in the average office.

10. It's the team that matters. Where would The Beatles be without Ringo? If John got Yoko to play drums the history of music would be completely different.

11. What does a squirrel do in the summer? It buries nuts. Why? Well, in winter time he's got something to eat and he won't die. So, collecting nuts in the summer is worthwhile work. Every task you do at work think, would a squirrel do that? Think squirrels. Think nuts.

12. When confronted by a difficult problem, you can solve it more easily by reducing it to the question, "How would the Lone Ranger handle this?"

13. Accept that some days you are the pigeon, and some days you are the statue.

14. If your boss is getting you down, look at him through the prongs of a fork and imagine him in jail.

15. If you can keep your head when all around you have lost theirs, then you probably haven't understood the seriousness of the situation.

16. You don't have to be mad to work here! In fact we ask you to complete a medical questionnaire to ensure that you are not.

17. If you treat the people around you with love and respect, they will never guess that you're trying to get them sacked.

18. If at first you don't succeed, remove all evidence you ever tried.

19. You have to be 100% behind someone, before you can stab them in the back.

20. If work was so good, the rich would have kept more of it for themselves.

21. Those of you who think you know everything are annoying to those of us who do.

22. There's no 'I' in 'team'. But then there's no 'I' in 'useless smug colleague', either. And there's four in 'platitude-quoting idiot'. Go figure.

23. Know your limitations and be content with them. Too much ambition results in promotion to a job you can't do.

24. Make good use of your cylindrical filing unit, the one you mainly keep under your desk.

25. Quitters never win, winners never quit. But those who never win and never quit are idiots.

26. If you're going be late, then be late and not just 2 minutes - make it an hour and enjoy your breakfast.

27. Remember the 3 golden rules:
1. It was like that when I got here.
2. I didn't do it.
3. (To your Boss) I like your style.

28. The office is like an army, and I'm the field general. You're my foot soldiers and customer quality is the WAR!!!

29. Set out to leave the first vapour trail in the blue-sky scenario.

30. Statistics are like a lamp-post to a drunken man - more for leaning on than illumination.

31. A problem shared is a problem halved, so is your problem really yours or just half of someone else's?

32. Is your work done? Are all pigs fed, watered and ready to fly?....

33. You don't have to be mad to work here, but you do have to be on time, well presented, a team player, customer service focused and sober!!

34. I thought I could see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it was just some ba*tard with a torch, bringing me more work.

35. Avoid employing unlucky people - throw half of the pile of CVs in the bin without reading them.

How Colour Affects Stress

2004-08-21T14:03:00.000+05:30

How Colour Affects Stress

BLACK: The body may be less stimulated by black than by any other colors.
BLUE: Blue may elevate mood.
BROWN: Brown may be calming.
GREEN: Green color may actually increase stress.
PINK: Pink color may have such tranquillizing effects as lowering blood pressure, pulse rate and anxiety levels.
RED: Research confirms that red is an arousing, stimulating color.
YELLOW: Yellow may reduce boredom

Eighty Floors

2004-08-18T18:36:00.000+05:30

There were once two brothers who lived on the 80th floor of a tall building.
On coming home one day, they realize to their dismay that the lifts were not working and that they have to climb the stairs home. After struggling to the 20th level, panting and tired, they decide to abandon their bags and come back for them the next day. They leave their bags there and then climb on............
By the time they reach the 40th level, they feel mad and irritated. The younger brother starts grumbling and thus both of them began to quarrel.
However, they continue to climb the steps, quarreling all the way to the 60th floor.
Then they realize that now they have only 20 levels more to climb and decide to stop quarreling and continue climbing in peace.
They silently climb on and reach home at long last. Each stands calmly before the door and waits for the other to open the door. But then they realize that the key was in their bag which was left at the 20th floor.........
This story is a reflection on our life and times. All of us climb the tall building called life...........some till all the 80 floors and some less.
Many of us climb under the expectations of our companion. These companions are our friends and parents till the 20th floor, then our spouse and our dear ones till the next levels of the building. We seldom get to do the things that we really like and love and are under so much pressure and stress that by the age of 20, we get tired and decide to dump this load.
Being free, we work enthusiastically and dream ambitious wishes. By the time we reach 40 years old, we start to loose our vision and dreams.
We began to feel unsatisfied and start complaining and criticizing. We live a miserable life as we are never satisfied.
Reaching 60, we realize that we have little left for complaining anymore, and began to walk the final episode in peace and calmness. We think that there is nothing left to disappoint us, only to realize that we could not rest in peace because we have an unfulfilled dream..........a dream we abandoned 60 years ago. So what's your dream.....?
Know your dreams and follow it so that you will not live with regrets.
Contributed By - Anand_Vishwakarma@infosys.com

2004-08-11T13:10:00.000+05:30

One day an employee sends a letter to his boss to increase his salary!!!

Dear Bo$$

In thi$ life, we all need $ome thing mo$t de$perately. I think you $hould be under$tanding of the need$ of u$ worker$ who have given $o much $upport including $weat and $ervice to your company.
I am $ure you will gue$$what I mean and re$pond $oon.

Your$ $incerely,
Norman $oh

Guess what was the response!!!!!

The next day, the employee received this letter of reply:

Dear NOrman,

I kNOw you have been working very hard. NOwadays, NOthing much has changed. You must have NOticed that our company is NOt doing NOticeably well as yet.
NOw the newspaper are saying the world`s leading ecoNOmists are NOt sure if the United States may go into aNOther recession. After the NOvember presidential elections things may turn bad.
I have NOthing more to add NOw. You kNOw what I mean.

Yours truly,
Manager .

The Tea Cup

2004-08-02T16:18:00.000+05:30

There was a couple who used to shop in a beautiful antique store. They both liked antiques and pottery, and especially tea-cups.

Spotting an exceptional cup, they asked "May we see that? We've never seen a cup quite so beautiful."

As the lady handed it to them suddenly the tea-cup spoke, "You don't understand." It said, "I have not always been a tea-cup. There was a time when I was just a lump of red clay. My master took me and rolled me pounded and patted me over and over and I yelled out, 'Don't do that. I don't like it! Let me alone', but he only smiled, and gently said; 'Not yet!!'

"Then. WHAM! I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly I was spun around and around and around. 'Stop it! I'm getting so dizzy! I'm going to be sick!', I screamed. But the master only nodded and said, quietly; 'Not yet.' He spun me and poked and prodded and bent me out of shape to suit himself and then...... "

Then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I yelled and knocked and pounded at the door. 'Help! Get me out of here!' I could see him through the opening and I could read his lips as he shook his head from side to side, 'Not yet'.

"When I thought I couldn't bear it another minute, the door opened. He carefully took me out and put me on the shelf, and I began to cool. Oh, that felt so good! 'Ah, this is much better,' I thought. "

But, after I cooled he picked me up and he brushed and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. 'Oh, please stop it, Stop it!!' I cried. He only shook his head and said. 'Not yet!'.

"Then suddenly he put me back in to the oven. Only it was not like the first one. This was twice as hot and I just knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed I cried. I was convinced I would never make it. I was ready to give up. Just then the door opened and he took me out and again placed me on the shelf, where I cooled and waited ------- and waited, wondering what's he going to do to me next? "

An hour later he handed me a mirror and said 'Look at yourself.' And I did. "I said, 'That's not me; that couldn't be me. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful!"'

"Quietly he spoke: I want you to remember, then,' he said, 'I know it hurt to be rolled and pounded and patted, but had I just left you alone, you'd have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled'. I know it hurt and it was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn't put you there, you would have cracked. 'I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn't done that, you never would have hardened. You would not have had any color in your life. If I hadn't put you back in that second oven, you wouldn't have survived for long because the hardness would not have held. Now you are a finished product. Now you are what I had in mind when I first began with you.'

The moral of this story is this: God knows what He's doing [for each of us]. He is the potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us, and expose us to just enough pressures of just the right kinds that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing and perfect will.

So when life seems hard, and you are being pounded and patted and pushed almost beyond endurance; when your world seems to be spinning out of control; when you feel like you are in a fiery furnace of trials; when life seems to "stink", try this.... Brew a cup of your favorite tea in your prettiest tea cup, sit down and think on this story and then, have a little talk with the Potter....

( shared by paulette->beth->yahoo mail )

The human spirit cannot be paralyzed...If you are breathing...you can DREAM...

How you use makes difference

2004-08-02T14:31:00.000+05:30

Madan Mohan Malviya was trying to build a good university; he had to overcome many difficulties and barriers. He worked with determination to start the university. There was a funds crisis; but he did not get disheartened. He went from town to town, met many rich people and traders to collect donations. He went to the King to request him for funds.

The king was furious, 'How dare you come to me for funds... that too for a your university?' he roared with anger and took off his footwear and flung it at Malviya. Malviya picked up the footwear and left silently. He came directly to the market place and began to auction the footwear. As it was the king's footwear, many came forward to buy it. The price went up.

When king heard of this, he became uneasy. He thought it would be an insult if his footwear were to be bought by someone for a pittance. So he sent one of his attendants with the instruction, 'Buy that footwear no matter what the bidding price be!' Thus, Malviya managed to sell the king's own footwear to him, for a huge amount. He used that money to build the Benares University known popularly as BHU.

Moral: It is not what you have, but it is how you use what you have that makes the difference in your life.

Walmart's Test

2004-08-02T14:21:00.000+05:30

One day, in line at the company cafeteria, Jack says to Mike behind him,"My elbow hurts like hell. I guess I better see a doctor."

"Listen, you don't have to spend that kind of money," Mike replies. "There's a diagnostic computer down at Walmart. Just give it a urine sample and the computer 'll tell you what's wrong and what to do about it. It takes ten seconds and costs ten dollars...a lot cheaper than a doctor."

So Jack deposits a urine sample in a small jar and takes it to Walmart. He deposits ten dollars, and the computer lights up and asks for the urine sample. He pours the sample into the slot and waits.

Ten seconds later, the computer ejects a printout:
"You have tennis elbow. Soak your arm in warm water and avoid heavy activity. It will improve in two weeks."

That evening while thinking how amazing this new technology was, Jack began wondering if the computer could be fooled. He mixed some tap water, a stool sample from his dog, urine samples from his wife and daughter, and masturbated into the mixture for good measure.

Jack hurries back to Walmart, eager to check the results. He deposits ten dollars, pours in his concoction, and awaits the results.

The computer prints the following:
1. Your tap water is too hard. Get a water softener.
2. Your dog has ringworm. Bathe him with anti-fungal shampoo.
3. Your daughter has a cocaine habit. Get her into rehab.
4. Your wife is pregnant. Twins. They aren't yours. Get a lawyer.
5. If you don't stop playing with yourself, your elbow will never get better.
Thank you for shopping at Walmart.

Trivia about Life - Did you know...

2004-08-02T14:12:00.000+05:30

Suppose the average human life in today's world is not more than 60 years. If you analyse the break-up of activities associated with these 60 years of your life, you can see that it more or less matches with the following:

12 Years in Working
22 Years in Sleeping
04 Years in Routine Travelling
05 Years in Eating
03 Years in Bathing, Dressing etc...
06 Years in Useless Chatting, Gossip
04 Years in Sickness & Illness
Balance ? Only 4 Years

Our only question to one and all is, why should mankind think, involve in activities that result in sufferings, terror, hatred, fighting, killings etc... in the short span of 4 years left to them. It needs to be utilized in a better way by doing all good things, helping others and thanking God for the opportunity given to us in being a human being... Live and Let Live.

Technical Skill and Creativity

2004-07-29T15:53:00.000+05:30

An Interviewer said "I shall either ask you ten easy questions or one really difficult question. Think well before you make up your mind!"

A boy thought for a while and said, "my choice is one really difficult question."

"Well, good luck to you, you have made your own choice! Now tell me this. "What comes first, Day or Night?"

The boy was jolted into reality as his admission depends on the correctness of his answer, but he thought for a while and said, "It's the DAY sir!"

"How" the interviewer asked.

"Sorry sir, you promised me that you will not ask me a SECOND difficult question!"

He was selected for IIM!

"Technical Skill is the mastery of complexity, while Creativity is the master of simplicity....."

12 Tips for Writing a Successful Resume

2004-07-29T11:02:00.000+05:30

1. Position title and job description.Provide your title, plus a detailed explanation of your daily activities and measurable results. Since job titles are often misleading or their function may vary from one company to another, your resume should tell the reader exactly what you’ve done.

2. Clarity dates and places.Document your work history accurately. Don’t leave the reader guessing where you were employed, or for how long. If you’ve had overlapping jobs, find a way to pull them apart on paper, or eliminate mentioning one to avoid confusion.

3. Details.Specify some of the more technical, or involved aspects of your past work or education. Have you performed tasks of any complexity, or significance? If so, don’t be shy, give one or two-sentence description.

4. Proportion.Give appropriate attention to jobs or educational credentials according to their length, or importance to the reader. For example, if you wish to be considered for a position at a bank, don’t write one paragraph describing your current job as a loan officer, followed by three paragraphs about your high school summer job as a lifeguard!

5. Relevancy.Confine your resume to that which is job-related or clearly demonstrates a pattern of success. For example, nobody really cares that your hobby is spear fishing, or that you weigh 98 kilograms, or that you belong to an activist youth group. Concentrate on the subject matter that addresses the needs of the employer.

6. Explicitness.Leave nothing to imagination. Don’t assume the resume reader knows, for example, that Hamdard University is in Karachi, or that "C.S." stands for computer science, etc.

7. Length.You should only fill up a page or two. If you write more than two pages, it becomes evident to the reader that you are unable to organize your thoughts, and that you are trying too hard to make a good impression. If the content of your resume is strong then there is no need for more than two pages.

8. Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation.Create an error free document that represents the educated person you are (or are striving to be). Always use a spell check program or better yet, consult a professional writer.

9. Readability.Organize your thoughts in a clear, concise manner. Avoid writing in a style that is fragmented or long winded.

10. Appearance and Presentation.Don’t deviate too much from the standard resume format in order to avoid being trashed due to difficulty in reading.

11. Portray yourself as someone who is active and gets things done. Do this by beginning sentences with action verbs.

12. Use headlines.They really work. Headlines permit the reader to skim through your resume and reach the areas that they are interested in quickly.

There is always a better way...

2004-07-26T15:06:00.000+05:30

A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: " I am blind, please help"

A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by will see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. Lot more people were giving money to the blind boy.

That after noon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were.

The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?"

The man said, "I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way."

What he had written was: "Today is a beautiful day and I cannot see it."

Do you think the first sign and the second sign were saying the same thing?

But the first sign simply told people to help by putting some money in the hat. The second sign told people that they were able to enjoy the beauty of the day, but the boy could not enjoy it because he was blind.

Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

There are at least two lessons we can learn from this simple story.

The first is, "Be thankful for what you have. Someone else has less. Help where you can."

The second is, "Be creative, Be innovative, Think differently THERE IS ALWAYS A BETTER WAY!"

Quite True...

2004-07-26T12:26:00.000+05:30

Jone's Motto:
Friends come and go, but enemies accumulate.

Terman's Law of Innovation:
If you want a team to win the high jump, you find one person who can jump seven feet, not seven people who can jump one foot each.

* O'brien's Variation:
If you change queues, the one you have left will start to move faster than the one you are in now.

* Conway's Law:
In any organization there will always be one person who knows what is going on. This person must be fired.

* The Peter Principle:
In a hierarchy, every employee tends to rise to his level of incompetence. Work is accomplished by those employees who have not reached their level of incompetence.

* H.L.Mencken's Law:
Those who can, do. Those who cannot teach

* Martin's Extension:
Those who can't teach, administer

* Belani's Extrapolation:
Those who cannot even administer, become consultants.

* Lieberman's Law:
Everybody lies; but it doesn't matter since nobody listens.

* Kovac's Conundrum:
When you dial a wrong number, you never get an engaged one.

* Van Herpen's Law:
The solving of the problem lies in finding the solvers.

* Ruby's Principle of Close Encounters:
The probability of meeting someone you know increases when you are with someone you don't want to be seen with.

* Young's Law:
Great discoveries are made by mistake.

* Kin Hubbard
A good listener is usually thinking about something else

* One Anonymous Great Seer's Law :
Money can't buy love, but it sure gets you a great bargaining position.