From my MIND

For My Eternal Valentine

2012-02-13T11:00:00.000-08:00

By: Sharon Supriya

As I sat down to watch the rocky beach on an unstable broken tree,
a gush of warmth wrapped me, whispering my own love story.
The enchanting rhythm of the waves trying to wrap around the rocks with a desperate hug...did wet my eyes.

The wave tried to enchant the rock with a rhythmic music, elegant dance and a soft song.
She desperately leaps towards the rock, to cuddle it, love it, kiss it... and make it all hers.
The rock doesn't deny her, when she rushes towards him.
He welcomes her but then with its hard fist pushes her back to her own world.

She asks him why? He says that's just his way of loving her. He doesn't stop there.
He sings, an ode to his land. He says, "I need u. Yes I need you, to cuddle me, to love me, to kiss me, to cleanse me... But, I can't be yours. You may leave your world for me, but I can never. This is where my clan is. I am bound to my fellow siblings lying around me. I am rooted to my Earth. But I need u, may be for my own selfishness. But, I Need You."

Wave was hurt. She cried, lamented for few seconds, and then with the same rhythmic music, elegant dance and a soft song, rushed back to his arms,

For centuries now, she has never stopped loving him and he has never stopped denying her. They will keep wrapping each other with love, but will never ever be in each others arms for more than a moment.

Suicide- Life's Bitter Expression

2010-01-16T06:14:00.000-08:00

By : Sharon Supriya

Are you going through the difficult phase of depression, rejection, fear, and failure? Are you trying to end your life with the banner, "I am unwanted"? Have you thought of SUICIDE ever? Then read an exclusive report of suicide that includes an interview with the Bangalore based suicide help line called 'Sahai' volunteer Teresa.

A number of suicide help lines have emerged to lend a helping ear in recent years in India. One of them is Bangalore based suicide help line 'Sahai', a project of Medico-Pastoral Association. An honorary volunteer Teresa opens up her view and fate of the people who try to attempt suicide. A self-retired middle-aged woman begins the conversation, " I enjoy this line more than my nursing. I have the opportunity to make a difference in some ones life".

When asked about the most memorable case ever Teresa recollects, " It is about a boy called Rahul (name changed with request) who fled from his college to find refugee in ISKCON after attempting suicide twice. Well! The story begins thus he had a relationship with a guy from his college. When the secret was disclosed in college he wished to die of shame. I believe the death had not called for him yet. His friend called Sahai and gave his number. He asked me to help him. When I rang back, I heard a chirpy kids voice who was desperate for help. He came to meet me personally from the other end of Bangalore to share his story. He needed a helping ear, when he found one he poured out his heart. After some days of counseling he went back to his native to complete his education. That day he wrote this letter to me which I carry wherever I go". She handed the delicate letter, which read:

"Dear mom (Teresa)
I am going back to complete my education and to be the best person on earth. Thanks a lot! I will never forget you mom"

The letter had just few words but had described his whole renewed life. He wanted to live a new life of difference in the same college where he would be put to shame every second. This is courage.

In Bangalore city, every year nearly 1500-1800 people commit suicide with an estimated 20,000 hospitalizations. Sahai helpline works only from Monaday to Friday on specifc times from 10am - 1 pm and 2pm - 5pm. The calls that come after these hours are recorded and called back by the volunteers next day. Sahai trains atleast 30- 45 new volunteer almost every 4 months, only one or two remain for 6 months or a year. The help is not stretched although the calls that keep ringing here have come from other states too. The law ones showed its rage by arresting people who wished to suicide but the law undermines to help those people who desperately seek for help.

Children of the age 9-18 desperately call suicide helplines. A couple of students commit suicde every year during the peak days of examination in every metropolitan cities. The stress, confusion and pressure lead them to something unknown but for the moment it is the need of the hour.

Teresa says, a girl of 6th std called Sahai and said " I am worried, I want to commit suicide". The girl who hasn't seen anything in life called trauma or distress want to quit life as it seems a great challange to survive. This happens when parents compare their children with superior students who have done extremely well and try to persuade their children to reach those heights. The act may be motivative to some but; it leaves an inferiority complex to many. Parents fail to realise that every being has his/ her own level of understanding. The seemingly high pressure will lead them to quit the game of life in utter shame. Parents celebrate successes, but fail to tell children how to take failures and losses in their stride

Interesting Facts

• World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that about one million people commit suicide each year
• It is the eight leading cause of death for all the US men and the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15-24.
• Its rate increases with age and is reported very high among 65 years and older people.
• "Sahai," a suicide prevention helpline project of Medico-Pastoral Association, a voluntary organisation working in the field of mental health, gets maximum calls from students during the Board exams of X th and XII th.
Men are four times more likely to die from suicide than women. However women report attempting suicide during their lifetime about three times as often as men. The stronger sex has designated to be the victim of failure. If you would like to help the distressed then read the protective factors.

• Distressed need a heeding ear, try to smile and encourage the near and dear ones who have gestured to attempt suicide.
• With a little support from parents and the right counselling about the opportunities available to them, students can be prevented from taking the extreme step, say counselors.
• People who try to attempt suicide need emotional support. If you could provide one you will be their angel for life.
• Try being a part of the suicide help lines to stretch help. They just need four hours of your time in a week.

To end with read an extract of my friend's life. This is especially for the one who thinks life is a waste and it has to be ended.

"I sneaked into the dark blanket and wished nobody ever would find me. I was ashamed of my failure. The whole world looked like a war zone and I was the only victim. My eyes were red; I rolled on the wet bed. I was wrong. I had no forgiveness. The thought of suicide struck me, but I didn't have the courage to knock the death door. In the mixed perplexed feeling my Father uncovered me. He could sense my deepest fear. He touched and said, "Your are a failure and you are responsible for all your fate, but I also believe you are the brightest shining star ever. Would you like to bring my faith into a reality?" I held his stretched arm and asked "Are you with me?" He answered, "I am till eternity" The sense of a partner walking with me in the dreary desert paved a path to success. People look up to me today and say, "She can live in the dreary dessert". Yes she can and so can you.

According to Phil Donahue, suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem, so do not succumb to something that is inevitable. Walk the dreary path you never know your desired goal may be just two steps ahead.

(first published in living.oneindia.in)

Partition Of India - The Sad Saga Of United India

2009-08-14T09:29:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Millions fought for a free country, but when it was destined on them they thought of walking in separate paths. The brave warriors of India who shed their blood for a noble cause, did not think again while tearing down a neighbor into scrambled body, stained with blood. What went wrong, why was the victory celebrated with tears? Will ever the divided heart join again to start a new history?

Here is a story of divided India at the stroke of Independence. Join in with me to the sad saga of the wondrous victory.

India and Pakistan legally came into existence at the stroke of midnight on 15 August 1947 that is after ending nearly 350 years of British presence in India. A research states that the ceremonies for the transfer of power were held a day earlier in Karachi, at the time the capital of the new state of Pakistan, so that the last British Viceroy, Louis Mountbatten, could attend both the ceremony in Karachi as well as the ceremony in Delhi. If that was one of the reason, another was an attempt to make it appear that Pakistan was not seceding from a sovereign India. Therefore Pakistan celebrates Independence Day on August 14, while India the very next day.
The street was short and narrow. Lying like the garbage across the street and in its open gutters were bodies of the dead.

What happened after partition ?
Anything divided is a cause of tragic end be it just a single home or an entire country. That's what happened to India. Some brave men were able to unbind their motherland by the chains of British but they were unaware of the internal bleeding within her body that could perish half a million and leave twelve million homeless (According to Richard Symonds).

It left behind a trail of unforgivable crime. In a couple of months, a millions of people were slaughtered on both sides in the religious rioting. Men, women and children who died in the rioting were cremated on a mass scale. Oil and kerosene were used by villagers to burn the dead bodies when wood was scarce. There was nothing called law and order in the country, many died in riots, massacre or just from the hardships of their flight to safety.

BBC in one of its documentary reports that over 10 million people were uprooted from their homeland. They traveled on foot, bullock carts and trains to their promised new home, which was pictured as the most perfect place to breathe in a new life.

The partition did not hinder the peace of only India but also of Pakistan. One decision left both the countries in devastating states. Many women were raped, men were looted and kids were left on the street to wander with a lost identity. Provinces of Punjab and Bengal was also divided, which caused catastrophic riots and claimed the lives of Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs alike.

About 14.5 million refuges poured across the borders. Based on 1951 Census of displaced persons, 7,226,000 Muslims went to Pakistan from India while 7,249,000 Hindus and Sikhs moved to India from Pakistan immediately after partition. Estimates of the number of deaths range around 500,000, with low estimates at 200,000 and high estimates at 1,000,000. One of the pictures taken by BBC during the partition shows a street filled with dead bodies, where vultures were having their feast. Looking at the tragic scene Bourke-White's biographer Vicki Goldberg, writes “The street was short and narrow. Lying like the garbage across the street and in its open gutters were bodies of the dead,"

A research states that the partition of India ranks, one of the 10 greatest tragedies in human history. It could have been an evitable event. India got its freedom at the prize of a divide country.

61 years after the dawn of Independence, the two nations are still trying to heal the deep wounds of the heart. Sometimes a sweet exchange of smile and wave in the border thrills for an urge of united India again. However, the two countries have been to war twice since the partition over the possession of Kashmir. The issue that divided that country still breathes fresh in Kashmir. Although the two countries started their new journey with hatred, bloody war, ruined economics and land, today they stand firm in their own growth.

At this hour after the sad tale of divided India, all that I can think of is a humble prayer the can reunite the broken hearts for a brighter tomorrow. Well! It may never happen, but hope is such a thing that can brighten a darkened soul. So, lets hope one day we will join in together to celebrate freedom that most dreamt of gifting their forthcoming generations. Till then, happy Independence Day Pakistan. Happy Independence Day India.

Interesting Myths And Facts About The Rainbow

2009-05-22T01:42:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Rainbow! The flamboyant colours with curved smile has often brought an unexplained joy and an expression of how beautiful are the works of God on anybody who saw it. The extraordinary and attractive natural phenomenon has fascinated human beings throughout ages. Here is an insight to its mythological background and some interesting facts that can blow your mind

Interesting tales about a Rainbow
Rainbow was considered to be a path made by a messenger Iris between earth and heaven in Greek mythology. The Chinese believed that the rainbow was a slit in the sky sealed by Goddess Nuwa using stones of five different colours. The Irish leprechaun's secret hiding place for his pot of gold is usually believed to be at the end of the rainbow. In Silesia, an obscure area of eastern Europe, it was said that the angels kept tons of gold there and that only a nude man could obtain the prize. Well! I hope nobody tries it.

The Bible also talks about the rainbow. After Noah's Deluge, the Bible relates that the rainbow gained meaning as the sign of God's promise that terrestrial life would never again be destroyed by flood (read Genesis 9.13-15). Many people believe the rainbow is a ray of light falling to earth whenever Saint Peter opens the gates of heaven to let another soul in. It also has a supreme place in Hindu mythology. The rainbow is called Indradhanush, which means bow of God Indra, who is the God of lightening and thunder. Arabian's have a similar story. In Arabia it is called the cloud's bow or Allah's bow. In Islam the rainbow is not made of seven colours but of four, red, yellow, green and blue related to the four elements.

In the Younger Edda it is described as a tricoloured bridge to Asgard, very skillfully built by the gods. In Croatia the rainbow is God's seat, while in Greenland the rainbow is the hem of God's garments. In Africa the rainbow encircles the earth and is a guardian to heaven. In German mythology it is a bowl God used to hold his paints while coloring the birds. Isn't that a beautiful imagination ever described in a simplest form?

Rainbows even helped mankind to know how to make love. A Japanese myth tells of the first man Isanagi and the first woman Isanami who stood on the floating bridge of heaven while creating the island of Onogoro. They then walked down to earth on this rainbow bridge( Niji), watched all the animals around them and learned how to make love. That's not all they watched the birds and learned to eat with chopsticks.

In the olden days, some Europeans believed that anyone passing beneath the rainbow would be transformed, man into woman and woman into man! Well, the ones who are thinking about having a gender change, then this is an easier, less painful and no expensive method.

Some interesting facts
# If you think the rainbow is made of just 7 colours, then probably you are wrong. A rainbow is actually made up of an entire continuum of colors, even the ones your eyes can't see.
# A research states that every person sees their own personal rainbow. When you look at one, you are seeing the light bounced off of certain raindrops, but when the person standing next to you looks at the same rainbow, they may see the light reflecting off other raindrops from a completely different angle. In addition, everyone sees colors differently according to light and how their eyes interpret it.
# Nobody can ever reach the end of the rainbow, because as you move, the rainbow that your eyes see moves as well, because the raindrops are at different spots in the atmosphere. The rainbow, then, will always move away at the same rate that you are moving.
# Historically, a rainbow flag was used in the German Peasants' War in the 16th century as a sign of a new era, of hope and of social change.
# Rainbows may also form in the spray created by waves in the water called spray bows. So you need not look up to find one all the time.
Rainbows can also be formed in mist, such as that of a waterfall.

Rain Dancing - A Blissful Ritual To Invoke Rain

2009-05-22T01:29:00.000-07:00

By : Sharon Supriya

I love dancing in the rain with my arms wide open to catch the soft showers. As they kiss my tender skin, with a warmth of love, it creeps me into the world of romance, with the nature. The blissful smell of the wet earth, the soft and cold wind seems to breathe in life again to the dry land and to my darkened soul. Such is the magic of monsoon. Although monsoon sweeps in romance in many regions of the planet without any notice, there are some places in the world it needs to be invoked to kiss the Earth. The method of instigating its love to the land is done from centuries throughout the globe with a splendid dance. Read about the most ancient ceremonial dance – Rain Dancing.

The ceremonial dance is performed in order to invoke rain and to ensure the protection of the harvest. It is found in many cultures from Ancient Egypt to certain Native American tribes. They could still be found in the 20th century Balkans, in a ritual known as Paparuda (Romanian) or Perperuna (Slavic).

The dance is performed with a particular make- up and attire. For instance the rain dance performed at the Pueblo of Zuni on August 19th, man and women are masked completely. The men have long, waved hair; the women wear the hair wrapped at each side with colored worsted around an oblong of cardboa. In addition to preparing their face and body with the proper 'rain dance' makeup and costume, they hop, skip, bounce, jump, juggle snakes, chant, scream, shout, yell and immerse their entire beings into playing in the rain. For a second, you will surely think they are not praying for rain, they are already playing in the rain!

Believe it or not, many a times their vibrant dance of invocation has brought rain to the drought lands. Experts believe that it invokes rain because it invokes the power of the law of attraction vibrantly, powerfully, passionately, vigorously, fervently, and with conviction

How it came into being?
Here are the two reasons

* An ethnic Native American tribe called, 'the Cherokee tribe' from the Southeastern United States, including Southern Appalachia, performed rain dances to both induce precipitation and to cleanse evil spirits from the earth. According to the tribes legend the rain summoned by the tribe contains the spirits of dead tribal chiefs, who, upon awakening from the clouds, battle evil spirits in the transitional plane between our reality and the spirit world. The tribe also believed that such elaborate rain dances could inspire the participants and the audience, to partake in extreme acts of spiritual worship.

* There is a story behind, how the term “rain dance" came into being, during the days of the Native American relocation, certain religious ceremonies (amongst them the Rain Dance and Ghost Dance) were banned by the government. Thus the tribes in suppressed areas were forbidden to perform the Sun Dance. The Windigokan, a nominally cannibalistic sect, told federal representatives that the dance being performed was not the Sun Dance, but the Rain Dance, thus preventing any prosecution or federal intervention.

(first published in living.oneindia.in)

The Love Story Of Cupid

2009-01-20T04:26:00.001-08:00

By : Sharon Supriya

Valentine's Day will loose colour without the presence of Cupid, the winged cherub with bow and arrows that he uses to strike people to fall in love. This article tells you about, what happened when Cupid became his own victim? This is his love story. The sweetest and the most beautiful love story that you can ever find. Read further to know all about Cupid, his love story, his origin and his role in the celebration of Valentine's Day.

According to Greek mythology, Cupid (Eros in the Greek) was son of Venus (Aphrodite in the Greek). This mischievous cherub of love was Venus's constant companion, armed with bow and arrows. He shot the arrows of desire into the bosoms of both gods and human beings. It is also said that he had two sets of arrow: one with gold headed, which inspired love and the other with lead headed, which inspired hatred.

Cupid is always portrayed as a child, though after the birth of his brother Anteros, he rapidly grew to a winged man. His personality in many of the art form is angelic and he is perceived to be angel like, due to the Christianisation of a number of Roman and Greek myths during the third and fourth century A.D. In literature, he is frequently pictured as fickle, playful, and perverse.

Cupid and his mortal bride - Psyche

Psyche was the daughter of a certain king and a queen who had three daughters. She was the youngest among all. The charms of the two elder were more than common, but the beauty of Psyche was just amazing without equal to any being in the world. The fame of her beauty grew like a burning fire. People from the neighboring countries came to see her. They marvelled at her beauty and classiness. They started worshipping the beauty bestowed on this young virgin by the Goddess Venus.

Venus became jealous of the beauty of Psyche, and ordered cupid to punish this mortal beauty. She asked cupid to infuse into her bosom a passion for some unworthy and ugly being. Cupid as per his mother's instructions went to strike Psyche with his arrows. Things didn't happen the way it was planned. Cupid accidentally got struck by his own arrow and fell in love with Psyche.

Meanwhile in the city Psyche's parents were worried, as the admiration and praise did not win any husband for her. For no man desired her as a wife. Due to this fear Psyche's parent consulted an oracle, which told them that she was destined for no mortal lover but for a monster. According to the commandment Psyche's parents dressed her in mourning garments and left her on top of nearby mountain peak. Then Zephyrus (Greek god of the west wind) carried Psyche to a fairy valley that had a magnificent palace. In the palace invisible servants attended her until dark. In the night the promised bridegroom (that is Cupid or Eros) arrived and married her. However as a mortal she was forbidden to look at him. Cupid feared that if she ever knew him she might fear him or adore him. Cupid wanted her to love him as an equal than adore him as a God.

Things were fine until Psyche listened to her elder sisters' wish to see her groom. They reminded her the prophecy from Oracles and asked to examine whether her lover is a monster. . One night armed with a sharp knife she looked at his face with the help of a lamp. Cupid became angry because of her defiance and curiosity. He left her lamenting on the ground for her folly.

Left with nothing, Psyche wandered in search of her lost love. She eventually arrived at the temple of Venus. Wishing to destroy her forever, the goddess of love and beauty gave Psyche a series of tasks, each harder and most dangerous than the last. However in all those tasks Psyche attained the secret assistance from Cupid.

In the final task, Psyche was given a little box and told to go to the underworld to get a little beauty of Proserpine, the wife of Pluto. Psyche was warned not to look into the box, but as a human bound curiosity she thought of having just a peep. Instead of revealing beauty she found death.

Cupid arrived and found his dead lover. He took the deadly sleep and gathered it in the box. As a result of her dominant love the Gods including Venus and Cupid forgave her for all her transgressions. Finally Psyche got united to Cupid and their subsequent child was named Delight or Voluptas or Volupta (that is Pleasure).

Cupid's love story has paved its way into the celebration of Valentine's Day. Modern Valentine symbols include the heart-shaped outline and the figure of the winged Cupid. Another popular symbol are doves and lovebirds as these are the only birds that mate for life. It is also believed that they choose their mate in the mid of February.

So let all the Cupids and Psyches in the world get prepared! You may be striked by one of the Cupid's arrows in this February. You may meet your man or woman of dreams, who can walk through all the hurdles just to have your love. You need not search the dream person, for they will be carried to you. So be ready as he/she may knock at the door any time with a banner in their hand " Will You Be Mine".

Christmas Message

2008-12-24T02:19:00.000-08:00

By : Sharon Supriya

Carol had a fight with one of her friend Stella over something silly and they didn't speak to each other for three long months. Now it was the time for Christmas and they were playing 'Secret Santa' in the church. Carol had the name of Stella on her chit. She said to herself, " uh ha! I will give her the worst Christmas gift ever. Serves her right." But that didn't happen. She gave her what Stella always dreamt for, a big 'Teddy Bear.' Stella received a letter with the gift, which read,

Dear Stella,

Merry Christmas!!!

When I received your name in the chit I thought I would give you a half eaten chocolate, or the cheapest dress. But, I recently visited an orphanage with mom and dad. I was greatly moved with this kid of age 4, who loved her younger brother, even though he boxed her and hurt her. She was very protective and kissed him all the while. I said, "I wish I had an elder sister like her." Mom replied that I already had a good friend called Stella. I told her about our fight and said you were the worst being I have ever met. Mom was firm and said that Christmas was all about loving. And if I loved Christ I should love you too. I didn't agree and walked away.

At night during the family prayer, mom read this scripture from the Bible, " For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son..."(John 3: 16). Then I realized that Jesus was born to die for me. I wasn't worth it. I did hurt Him and made Him cry with my deeds. But He thought I was the most precious one. When He could sacrifice everything for me why couldn't I sacrifice my year earned pocket money for you.

I hope you liked it and I love you for He loved me.

Love,
Carol.

"Love came down at Christmas love all lovely love divine. Love was born at Christmas stars and angels gave the sign..."

True. Christmas is all about love.

Christmas is a message that somebody loves you the way you are, and that He came to live like you and gave his life that you might live. It's a story of amazing love of God.

Long time ago in Bethlehem a baby named Jesus was born in a manger to a couple Mary and Joseph. Neither his birth nor his life was ordinary. He had a mission. He had a message. He taught a vision. He was a seed of hope. He was a lamb of sacrifice. He was LOVE.

Spread the message of love to everyone you meet. Its Christmas season, celebrate it with a heart of love.

Other than Love, Christmas carries a message of peace; hope salvation and much more wrapped in a single box. Here are some of the verses from the Bible that tells you all about these.

Christmas is
The Good News of Joy:
'Then the angel of the Lord said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people." Luke 2: 10

The Good News of Truth:
"To whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you." Galatians 2: 5

The Good News of Hope:
"If indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven..." Colossians 1: 23

The Good News of Peace:
'...And having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace" Ephesians 6:15

The Good news of Gods Promise:
"That the gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ through the gospel..." Ephesians 3:6

The Good News of Immortality:
"But has now been revealed by the appearing of our savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel."2 Timothy 1: 10

The Good News of Salvation:
"In him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise...." Ephesians 1:13

(first published in living.oneindia.in)

Tips for Decorating A Christmas Tree

2008-12-16T03:43:00.000-08:00

By : Sharon Supriya

Sarah's father was a clergyman. During Christmas season she used to hardly see him because of his busy schedule. Last Christmas Sarah's father could not get the Christmas tree for the first time, as he had some urgent work. So, Sarah aged 12, walked into the jungle to get a plant that was shaped conically. By the time she got the plant home, her hand was bruised and was bleeding. Nevertheless she still carried the smile on her face as she had something to decorate for Christmas.

That's the joy a Christmas tree brings in the Christmas season. Here are some ideas on choosing a Christmas tree, decorating it safely and involving the whole family in the fun. So, gather all your equipments, get the Christmas tree, its time for some family fun.

Choosing a Christmas tree:
You will surely get fake Christmas trees in the market, but it is always a fun and an experience when you get and decorate the original one. When you buy a Christmas tree this time follow these guidelines.

# Buy trees with shorter needles, as it is easier to decorate. They even offer some space between branches for decorations as well as hold heavier ornaments, as the stems of these trees are stronger.
# Main thing to emphasize while selecting a Christmas tree is freshness. Make sure that the needles look shiny, green and fresh. The needles should be resilient they should not fall off when you pull on a branch.
# Make sure that the handle of the tree is straight as it is extremely important when you are securing the tree in a stand.
# Check whether the Christmas tree is free of insects and egg masses before you get it inside the house.
# Once you get the tree inside cut off atleast half an inch from the bottom of the trunk. The cut should be smooth and clean for maximum water absorption.

Decorating Christmas tree:
# While placing the Christmas tree inside, ensure that it is placed away from heat sources such as fireplaces, television sets or radiators.
# Do not ruin the carpet or get watermarks on hardwood flooring. Place a plastic or other waterproof covering on the floor
# Use fireproof decorations and light reflectors. Make sure that the lights with brittle or cracked insulation is replaced.
# Do not overload electrical circuits. Remember if a fuse blows it means the line is overloaded or it is attached to defective equipment. Get three 100 - light sets per tree foot.
# Do not hang all your ornaments on the tip of the branches. Place some ornaments even inside the tree to add depth and curiosity.
# Filler ornaments like basic solid colour balls should be arranged evenly around the tree. You will need about 20 filler ornaments for every 2 feet of Christmas tree.
# Use thin beaded garlands. Even thick paper, ribbon or foil garlands look best when wrapped loosely around the entire tree. For a vertical foot tree use about two strands of garland.
# To make the decoration more interesting use about 10 themed ornaments.
# Spread cotton as thin as a paper on top of the branches to create an image of snow on the branches.
# Place a star or an angel on top of the Christmas tree to get a traditional look.
# Ask the kids to dress three teddy bears in a Santa dress with gift packed boxes in their hands. Place the three teddy bears below the Christmas tree.

Christmas tree decoration should not be one mans affair but a family fun. Get the whole family involved while decorating it.

(first published in living.oneindia.in)

My Lost Christmas Gift

2008-12-07T21:25:00.000-08:00

Here is an extract from my personal diary... Read to glorify the living God.

Uncle John – my father- in–law, who was admitted in the hospital due to multi-organ disorder and cardiac arrest.

Aunt Mary – my mother- in-law

Siril – my husband

Sweety, Blessy - my sister- in-laws

30/11/07 – Saturday
Dear Sweetheart,
The night is dark and cold, as if it rules my destinations, my prayers and my dreams. The narrow corridors of the hospital is packed with silence...only my tip toed sandals could break through it. As I walked into the ICU where Uncle John was sleeping peacefully, I could feel a cold chill passing down my spine. His body had swollen, with a small tear resting near his eyes. The doctors had laid their hope in the hands of the almighty. I knew that, only He would be at my rescue now. What the costly medicines, and modern technologies like Dialysis and Pacemakers could not do, my God could do it with a single touch. So I knelt down for a personal talk with my Saviour.

I rested uncle's hand on the Holy Bible. The body that did not move an inch for past 24 hours, could slightly feel the presence of God. His fingers felt the warmth of the Holy book and shook, as if stating that, "please let me out of these barriers of death, I still have something to do." That night all that I prayed till twilight near him was for a Christmas gift, the gift of his life. I was waiting to experience a Christmas miracle with a faith that for sure it will be done. In the nearby ward aunt Mary would wake up every time I walked in to sip a glass of water. I would make her to go asleep, saying that, "Our God is an awesome God, we will all experience a Christmas Miracle soon." She said, "If He gifts my husband's life to me, I will do anything for Him...anything...I just want him back..."

The night was gruesome. I felt somebody was pricking my heart now and then just to leave the hope. But, I, was fighting back only with a bent head and wet closed eyes in prayer. I want him back. I just don't want to loose him for life.... I can't write anything more sweetheart, the pages are all wet...

Love,
Sharon.

2/12/07 – Sunday
Dear Sweetheart,

I don't know how to describe this day. In our church denomination holy communion is given on the first Sunday of every month. Last week when Uncle was all fine, he wished to go to church together with aunt Mary to be a part of it. So I arranged for the communion, by calling up the pastor. Aunt was scared that the doctor would not allow, as uncle was fed only fluids through a tube attached to his mouth. But when asked, he said, "Do anything that would help him recover."

The pastor arrived after his third feed was already given. For the communion Aunt Mary, Uncle Philip (Uncle John's younger brother), Pastor and I had walked inside the cozy room of ICU. Male nurse, who was busy with his work, was very fussy about the whole event happening in the room. He first denied for a loud prayer in the room, and then he just nodded a sure 'no' for giving the communion through the tube. He listed several reasons. But, when Aunt Mary told him about the doctors approval, he asked us to keep it on the table and walk out. Seeing his arrogant behavior and aunt's roaring anger, I just signed to all of them to walk out and assured her that I would be there until it was fed to him.

After few normal conversation with the nurse, I manged to get his approval for the feed. I placed the Holy bread in the Holy wine, so that it could melt properly and smashed it fine with my finger. Till then uncle started moving furiously. He had woke up from his deep slumber, when the pastor had prayed aloud. The male nurse could not manage to keep him calm even after maximum amount of sedation injection. So I moved forward to help him holding the cup that had the wine and the bread. Within a fraction of second, the cup fell from my hand. Just a few drops had manged to slip from the cup. But I cried with a deep voice near the ground as if, I had just dropped a life from my hand.

Till then a senior nurse accompanied the old one for all the help he needed. The cup was again kept on the desk. I could sense a deep fear of loosing all the blessed wine. At the very moment the senior nurse, dropped the whole cup into the nearby bin thinking it as some kind of a waste that was not cleaned. I was shocked and looked stunned at the nurse. Till then the other picked it up to see if there was any and to our surprise not a drop had fallen down. As the cup laid stiff and straight inside the bin. I did not wait for another minute, I asked them to feed him right away. By now they could not stand against my word, I don't know whether due to fear or love. They fed him the very second. I walked outside with a successful mission. I felt, I had just fought against an evil, which did not want anything holy to be touched on him.

I hope as the holy wine and bread, paves its path through his body each and every part, will relive a new life.
Love,
Sharon

10/12/07- Monday
Dear Sweetheart,
Our God is truly an awesome God. Sweetheart, the doctors said he is all fine and will be shifted to the nearby ward... Today is their wedding day. It is so nice to see them happy together. I am singing all praises with high tone. Yesterday he spoke with me for the whole day. I could listen to any of his story, for as many hours as possible. Another mysterious thing that we noticed was he doesn't remember that he was hospitalized for nearly two weeks. All that he remembers is the story of past five days.

He repeatedly asked Aunt Mary to take him back home at least for an hour. The doctors were amazed with his recovery. They said, “It is truly nothing but a miracle, for the past four years none of the patients with such problems have walked out alive from here." Huh!! it feels so good. Okay, bye for now... lets talk more about him tomorrow.
Love,
Sharon.

13/12/ 07– Thursday
Dear Sweetheart,

I lost him.... I lost him for life. He bid us all bye to rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus. Yesterday when I saw his body being laid on a dug out ground, amidst the wailing of innumerable people, I thought somebody just snatched away my beautiful Christmas gift.... I had swallowed all my tears just to lend a ray of hope to Siril, Sweety, Blessy and aunt Mary, that we will surely see him again one day. But.... what about my Christmas gift, that is buried in the ground to rot??? I lost it ... I lost it for life.

17/12/07 – Monday
Dear Sweetheart,

It is true that I lost my Christmas gift. But when I look back those four days, that he (uncle John) could speak and pour out his emotions, I glorify my living God, for sending him back to us even for a minimal time. As I pen down these words I can see him rest like a child on the chest of an angel, after a heavy work. Yes, I did loose my Christmas gift, only to get it back for eternity... when I will meet him with open arms in the garden of Jesus Christ.

Love,
Sharon.

From My Diary - On The Most Tragic History Of Terror

2008-11-30T04:35:00.000-08:00

Date : 28th November 2008
Time : 11:30 p.m - 12:23 p.m

As I wrapped in warm under the blanket all that clouds my eyes right now is the Bollywood flick that raised brows with agony, fear and anger.

My closed eyes picturises the agonized state of the innocent people. The father who wept bitterly on the death of his two innocent daughters clinging their pictures to his heart. How he would have wished to have them near him for a warmth of love.

Then my mind sweeps to the two year old boy in the safe arms of his nanny... unknown of the tragic death of his parents and grandparents. If they were alive and breathing the group would have celebrated the child's birthday tomorrow.

Soft music at the bedside try to make peace with my heart. It tells me, "Forget it. Its time to sleep. You have loads to do tomorrow." But my heart reaches out to the brave cops who sacrificed their life... and especially to their loving families they left behind. Little did they know that their husband, father or son wouldn't turn back on 26th night for a family dinner.

I roll back and forth my comfort bed thinking about the people who were running behind the ambulance hoping that their loved ones weren't inside and if they were... they were still breathing in life. And to those misty eyes reading the list of names of the survivors.

I am safe tonight. I am alive. But if those terrorist had thought of attacking Bangalore than Mumbai, my office than the Taj or Oberoi hotel, I wouldn't be cozily wrapped inside my blanket. So, should I thank the terrorists for not targeting me?

We live such an insecure life. Our life's are in the hands of the massacre's who decide we breath life today or not. Isn't that tragic? Where are the leader we chose.

I pay my taxes. I bow down to all the inflation rates like a humble dove. I nod my head without fighting back to the laws and orders of even the rickshaw fellows and in the end I even accept the tragic death the massacre's give me.

It's the common life of the every common man on the streets. Countries like United States, England and Israel try their level best not to repeat their tragic terrors of history. However in India it would never happen, even after 10 major terrorist attacks in India in just 11 months of 2008. I want to live without fear, because I deserve one as a human. If our leaders can't give it we better take it. It's time for a 'Change'. The kind of a 'Change' America thought of and even got one.

I need a changed India, where I can walk without fear and when I get back to my bed after a hard day of work I don't wet my diary with the memory of tragic and innocent deaths. I don't understand why we can't curb the rule of these inhuman beings as these terrorists are just few thousands and corrupts few hundreds more and we are many billions.

Should I Always Bleed And Walk Hurt With A Peace Flag?

2008-10-06T04:41:00.000-07:00

I always wondered, whether my country is free and secular? My blog posts have always been general, but todays post is straight from my bleeding soul with a curved smile.

Should I Always Bleed And walk Hurt With A Peace Flag?
Why is my beliefs suppressed by any majority or over ruling power? My neighbors respect my faith, so do my colleagues, friends and most of the people I met just once in the crowded streets. So who are these man-eaters who feed their hungry desires on helpless people.

I was triggered with anger when I read about the Holy Sacrament that was destroyed in a Bangalore Church. I wept bitterly the day I read the tragic story of a nun who was gang raped and paraded naked on the streets. Was her faith that made her body shy into the wilderness today that even the family doesn't know about her existence. What makes these group of men so brutal? Their power or our peace parade. Well! Jesus always preached about love and peace. No wonder we take all the thorned whips on our back with a silent cry. But, how long? Am I not free to practice my faith. Should I fear to hold the Bible in my hand when the saffron flag sways high on the raging road?

I do not fear. I need not fear. For my trust in Christ has never let me down or his people. I know I will be set free. At the midst of mixed emotion all that I can do now is bow down and take a harsher whip on the back, because its gonna make me strong to live for Christ. You can parade us naked, gang rape us, burn us alive, but our spirits will not be shattered for we are courageous people not cowards. With our cry, silence and love we will change those stubborn hearts. It may seem philosophical, but I have seen it happen in my life. Fellow Christians, this is the time to unite and show the world the faith we live for is not an ordinary one. Come join with me for a peace yet powerful march that is stronger that their brutal ways.

Serial Bomb Blasts In Bangalore City

2008-07-25T03:48:00.000-07:00

When the city sleeps in the safe nestle of its history, something shakes its deepest fear. Serial blast in Bengaluru city, has made all its nestler's packed in grief and fear even to peep outside the window.

According to the latest news update at least one woman was reportedly killed and several others were injured. The blasts took place in Nayandahalli on Bangalore-Mysore highway, Madivala checkpost, 2 blasts in Adugodi, Kormangla Eagle street (near Hercules Sports center), near a park on Mallya road, Langford Road, Richmond Circle and a place near Shivajinagar. Panic gripped these areas in a fraction of seconds.

The police suspected that it was the handiwork of miscreants who were out to disrupt peace and tranquility of the city.

According to media reports, timer and gelatin sticks have been used in the blasts. Meanwhile, high alert have been sounded in Delhi. Whatever may be the cause and the varied plan deals of miscreants the safest option for all the inhabitants of Bangaloreans working now is to stay safe at office. Avoid traveling on any busy street of Bangalore. Its better to stay safe than panic with fear. Move out only when a safe trumpet is blown.

Eye Tattoo-The Eeriest Trend Of The Century

2008-06-13T23:44:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Imagine piercing a needle in the eye to get the world's latest trend done - a tattoo. Pauly Unstoppable, from Canada got the world's first ever eyeball tattoo, thus paving a path to the most unique and eerie trend of the 21^st century, which was actually introduced way back in 150 A.D

The freaky procedure was carried out to turn Pauly's eye blue. It took forty insertions of the needle to get the job done. Pigment was injected under the top layer of the eye using a syringe. At first, the experts tried a traditional needle with ink on it, but when the ink didn't hold, they switched to the syringe. The blue substance used for the tattoo was mixed with antibiotic eyewash.

After Pauly Unstoppable posed with a blue eye, he said, "I really have to emphasize again that the procedure was extensively researched and done by people who were aware of the risks and possible complications, and that it should not be casually attempted.... Now that this experiment has been started, please wait for us to either heal or go blind before trying it."

Eyeball tattooing has been around for a long time. In the 19th century it was commonly used to correct cosmetic defects in blind eyes. The process was called Corneal tattooing. It is a form of cosmetic surgery applied to the cornea. It was used to improve the visual look of the eye, improve vision or reduce the effects of scarring. Modern techniques were introduced to recreate the colour of the iris stroma, using Indian ink.

Another research states that tattooing of the opaque cornea was practiced in a crude way, in 150 A.D by Galen. He burnt the cornea with a heated stilleto, and applied either an iron or copper mixture, thereby making the cornea more transparent ( this must have curled your toes).

Lets wait and watch whether this upcoming buzz will ever be the teens most wanted trend. However, the world at last has something to offer to the tattoo addicts, who happen to run out of surface area to mark up on their skin.

(first published in living.oneindia.in)

Interview With Abhishek Dutta

2008-04-07T02:58:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Hi,
For all those aspiring fashion designers here is a fashion feast for you. Read an exclusive interview of the most famed fashion designer 'Abhishek Dutta'

My life, My journey

A brief info about your family
I come from a artistic family both my parents being from the Indian art college. But I was bought up by a single parent that is my mother since my father passed away at a very early age.

You aspired for a seat at IIT, then how did you get into the world of glamor with such popularity in a short span?
It was a kind of an accident since I couldn’t get through the IIT that year my mother got in a form of a fashion college where I got through the admission test very smoothly and thought of giving it a try for a semester. Gradually I was quite interested and being the teachers favorite got a lot of encouragement.

What were the challenges you had to face while climbing up the ladder?
Since I was from a middle class family and didn’t have adequate finance to support my studies as well as the launch my own label I really had to struggle hard and earn extra bucks by teaching Maths and English(being good in studies really helps at times) free lancing for different export house as well as for designers But the real break came to me at a very initial age of 20 where as in I launched my label at Ogaan.

If you weren't a designer you would be -----------------------------and why?
Very difficult question because I have been a dreamer all my life and wanted to become a lot of things at different stages of life. Starting from a fighter pilot to an engineer (since I was very good in Science) but finally I think I would have been a car designer Give would have given me the creative edge as well as my fascination for speed.

Please share your experience while designing clothes for the Femina Miss India 2001.
It was a great experience designing for Deepti who also used to be a good friend. But hardly few people know a very imp incident associated with this. My 1 month old car got stolen with the Miss India outfit as I had parked it just before a week of the event. It was maddening since I had to redo the entire stuff in just two days compared to what I had done in a months time.

Tell us about the list of Award titles conferred on you.
I bagged the “Most creative designer award” at my graduating show and the biggest award which I actually got was “the Smirnoff International Fashion Award” in 1990.

At present you retail in about twenty stores across the country including the the country's leading boutiques such as Kimaya, Samsara (Delhi), Ishna Aza, Kimaya (Mumbai), Origins, Oorja & Elahe (Hyderabad) Little India, Cima Designs & Intrigue (Kolkata) Mogra (Bangalore. What are the other areas that you would like to explore in the next 5 years time?
Fashion industry is fast so I only see myself beyond 2 yrs and hopefully by then I want to have my flagship or franchise store in the metros like Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad for sure and want to explore more in the international markets like Australia, Paris and US.

The celebrity you would love to design clothes for.
Maddona since I think she has got a very strong style statement so dressing her in something unique will be a big challenge.

'Abhsishek Dutta' in one word
Creative

The World Of Fashion

If you were asked to rate on what do you master in, designing apparels, trendy accessories and footwear, how would you rank and why?
Definitely apparels because thats what I started with and that’s where my forte lies other are the extensions of my creative ideas.

Can an aspiring new fashion designer pave his way right up to the top of the fashion world only with creativity?
Creativity is very important but you have to be practical at the same time. You can create the best of the clothes but if they don’t sell you’ll be a complete failure. An ideal designer is perfect combination of creative person with a good sense a of marketing and a strong idea of textile.

The Other World Of Abhishek

You love reading books. What are the recent books that you enjoyed reading all alone in a tranquil place.
I used to be a book worm but, sadly my profession really doesn’t give me the time to relax and read anymore.

In one of the interviews you spoke about your love for pets that were very dangerous like pythons... Do you still have that craze? How many pets do you have?
I love animals. I still have two boxers with me who are extremely playful. In past I had a python, two hawks ,two mongoose and a golden retriever. The hawks were not caged as they were trained and used to be in the open and so where the mongoose.

Many journalist portray you as a spiritual man, who devotes his Sunday mornings for a darshan at the Kalighat temple and a visit to the nearby Missionaries of Charity home. So, have you thought of portraying your spirituality in fashion? Or do you consider both of them in different terrains ?

I think that’s my belief and I don’t want to mix my belief with my profession. As for the charity I do like to share my profits with the underprivileged ones since it actually gives me a different happiness.

Your idea of romance
My idea of romance will be a candle light dinner with my wife or a no work tension holiday(which can be anywhere).

Abhishek Dutta the world doesn't know
The world actually doesn’t know that still I die to watch cartoon network and enjoy the most playing with my two dogs and my one year old naughty son.

Lakme Fashion Week

Your Idea behind the theme ' Save the Girl Child’ at LFW
History has always mentioned about the power of women. We all know how important it is to take the initiative to save a girl child in today’s society, as there is view in our society that everybody wants boy child nobody wants girl child, and if does happen they blame women, our theme is in support to combat all this orthodox view from our society.

Your comment on the recent controversy of your child walking on the ramp in 'Lakme Fashion Week'?
I think it was just an accident and the amount its being talked about is not justified. It’s not a garment malfunction that the designer is to be blamed for and the whole point of taking a kid is to portray the innocence and the beauty of the child.

Toddlers On Ramp – A Mishap Or A Gain

2008-04-02T04:11:00.001-07:00

By Sharon Supriya
Controversial mishap was witnessed at the Lakme Fashion Week, when designer Abhishek Dutta’s ( 28-year old glittering star of Kolkata's fashion firmament) one year old child fell off the ramp. The accident occurred when the toddler was made to walk the ramp with a model showcasing Dutta’s collection.

Children walking on the ramp is not a new aspect in the world of fashion, but a toddler braving out such a task is surely a new one. 2008 posed the limelight on kids flaunting collections on the ramp. Darsheel, the youngest star of Bollywood, stole the show at the Lakme Fashion Week, as he walked the ramp for designer Neeta Lulla on the second day of LFW. While Neeta Lulla was praised for her vibrant colours and theme of fame (immortal love) with the star child, Abhishek took a down lane of shame.

Abhishek's creations were mind-boggling. The collection he showcased was rich, decorative, very ornate and glitzy with prints. Digital large prints, hand embroidery depicting women in all their glory, and artistic motifs, gave the creations a fusion look. His creations included jackets, boleros, sherwanis, fluid pants, dresses, dungarees to body hugging knit blouses. Even men's wear was colourful as women's.

When his attempt was applauded for a great success the child came tumbling down to fish him in the net of mishaps. The kid didn’t show any signs of being hurt, however many critics and celebrities who witnessed the show found the whole idea of a kid walking on the ramp just not fine. As the show was not focusing on any kids garment nor was the theme based around kids.

In an interview after the event, when he was asked th reason behind the act he promptly states“A child is the purest form of beauty. Instead of making a celeb child fake the walk, I thought it would be natural to let my own son represent the theme.” Alas, for his fate the episode made Dutta’s theme look more like child abuse. Whatever may be the story the mishap did make the designer be on the unfamed limelight for this year in the arena of fashion world for a 'kiddish' mistake.

April Fool's Day Facts- Roll Over With Laughter

2008-03-30T09:06:00.000-07:00

Compiled by Sharon Supriya
'April Fools' Day' or 'All Fools' Day', is one of the most light hearted days of the year. Its origins is complex and a matter of much debate. So, let me not discuss about the topic I am not sure of. Here is a small feast of laughter and surprise. Read about the most hilarious pranks of the world

The Spaghetti Harvest: Even after half a century, it remains one of the UK's most famous April Fool's Day jokes. Back in 1957, BBC news show Panorama announced, that Swiss farmers were enjoying a bumper spaghetti crop due to a very mild winter and the virtual elimination of the dreaded spaghetti weevil. It accompanied this announcement with footage of Swiss peasants pulling strands of spaghetti down from trees. Many called the BBC wanting to know how they could grow their own spaghetti tree. To this the BBC diplomatically replied that they should "place a sprig of spaghetti in a tin of tomato sauce and hope for the best."

The First And Instant Colour TV: In 1962 there was only one TV channel in Sweden, and it broadcast in black and white. To lure the viewers with a title of 'fools' on April 1st, the station's technical expert, Kjell Stensson, appeared on the news to announce that, with the help of a new technology, viewers could convert their existing sets to display color reception. All they had to do was pull a nylon stocking over their TV screen. Stensson proceeded to demonstrate the process. Thousands of people believed Stensson and tried it at home. Regular color broadcasts only commenced in Sweden on April 1, 1970.
A Whopper Just For Left Handed People: In 1998 Burger King published a full page advertisement in USA Today announcing the introduction of a new item to their menu, a "Left-Handed Whopper" specially designed for the 32 million left-handed Americans. Not only did customers order the new burgers, but some specifically requested the "old", right-handed burger.
The Blue River: "97.3FM" in Brisbane, Australia reported the polluted Brisbane River to be a shining blue on April 1st, 2005. This was said to have been caused by a rare movement of the moon, causing high tides and the sea water to run upstream to the river to give it clean blue water. What an explanation !! Multiple personalities were carried away with the hoax and interviewed in the morning. The calls were screened so that those living by the river didn't ruin the joke. Some listeners, joined in and called in to report, how beautiful it was to see the river unpolluted and clear!
Happy-Go-Nutty : On April 1st, 1997, Cartoon Network ran the 1944 Screwy Squirrel cartoon Happy-Go-Nutty repeatedly from 6 AM to 6 PM, suggesting that the cartoon character had taken over the network.
Bill Gates Assassinated: In 2003, many South Korean and Chinese websites claimed that CNN reported the founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, was assassinated, resulting in a 1.5% drop in the Korean stock market.
The DEAD fairy: An illusion designer for magicians posted some images illustrating the corpse of an unknown eight-inch creation, which was claimed to be the mummified remains of a fairy on his website. The clever designer later sold the fairy on eBay for £280.

So what are you guys upto this year … do let me know.

Things You Would Love To Know About... Death

2008-03-19T05:41:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

"Why are you weeping? Did you imagine that I was immortal?"
Louis XIV (1638-1715), Well known French king, as his servants cried for him.

Death has been a fantasy to me. The fact of just vanishing forever fascinates me. Death, the gruesome fear of everybody"s life has been a mystery, the life after that is unknown and the journey seems to be stale. Here are some compiled hard core facts about death which you would love to know. Get closer to the weird realities of death.

Have you ever imagined, how wreaths became a death ceremonial practice? The tradition of funeral wreaths originated from the belief that the wreath would encircle the spirit of the dead and keep it at bay.

The oldest, continually used cemetery in the world, is the Mount of Olives in Israel.

Although Americans may have, the greatest technology and fastest science to trap all kind of diseases, a research states that, no American has died of old age since 1951.

Zoroastrians in India leave out the bodies of the dead to be consumed by vultures.
Can you imagine thousand of mummies being fuel to a locomotive? Well! History states that during a railway expansion in Egypt in the 19th century, construction companies unearthed so many mummies that they used them as fuel for locomotives.

English philosopher Francis Bacon, a founder of the scientific method, died in 1626 of pneumonia after stuffing a chicken with snow to see if cold would preserve it.

In new York City, the number of people committing suicide is more than the one murdered.

A few months before James Byron Dean, famous American film actor, got killed in a car accident, he made a driver's safety TV ad in which he said, "Drive safely; the life you save may be mine".

Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry is the first person to have his ashes put aboard a rocket and buried in space.

The most expensive funeral till date is that of Alexander the Great. Research states that it would have cost about $600,000,000 in today's money. One of the reasons was the building of a road from Babylon to Alexandria, big enough to move a jewel studded hearse the size of a small building which was pulled by 64 horses.

The word 'mausoleum' comes from the memorial tomb of Mausolus, ruler of Caria, who died in 353 B.C. When he died his wife had him cremated, mixed his ashes with water, and drank the mixture in a single gulp.

When King Pedro of Portugal was crowned, in 1355, he dug up his mistress to have her properly honored as queen. Loyal subjects bowed before the decorated corpse and had to kiss her hand.

When Thomas Edison died in 1931, his pal Henry Ford trapped his last breath in a bottle. It is in Henry Ford's museum today.

More men than women commit suicide over heart broken love affairs.

Elephants have been known to die of broken hearts if a mate dies. They refuse to eat and will lay down, shedding tears until they starve to death. Research states hat they even refuse all human help.

Murderers, on average, are 7.5 years younger than their victims.

In ancient Japan, it was believed that somewhere on the tail of a cat there was a single hair that would restore life to a dying person. Therefore, relatives would sometimes bring a cat to the dying person, letting them pluck a hair to try their luck.

Can you believe it Napoleon was so powerful that he could kill over a thousand people with a cough. Well! In 1799 he was deciding whether to release 1,200 Turkish prisoners of war when he coughed and said, "Ma sacre toux!" (my darned cough) which sounded to officers like "Massacrez tous!" (Kill them all!). So they did.
(First published in living.oneindia.in)

Is it normal to fall in love again and again.....and again?

2008-03-17T23:42:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Falling in love for the second, third, fourth, fifth... and nth number of time is Hollywood style (Well! Bollywood is accepting the trend recently). Read to know all that confusion about true love with three different arenas of love life.

Search for Mr/ Miss Perfect

When I was in college I had few friends who were in and out of relationship every six months. I used to awe at the rate of speed they moved. Once when I asked Stella, (a good dancer ) the reason for leaving her ex boyfriend she promptly replied, "because he couldn't dance". Sounds strange!! Today's generation have lost the meaning of good relationship, commitment, and need for adjustment. They look in for the Mr/ Miss Perfect and bounce into every possible character just to return back with a deep hurt.

Loved- hurt- and loved again- and hurt again......

Let us move to the second situation where an individual falls in true committed love to realize that the other was a fraud. Sandy fell in love with a college beauty and broke after a year when he realised that she was dating him for her own benefits. After a gap of six months he fell in love again just to get a deeper heart break when the parents posed the barrier of different religions. Sandy after a year found the perfect gal who loves him like crazy and is of the same religion. But he will not dare to take any step, because he is scared of getting hurt again. There may be many in such a situation. Love can happen nth number of times to an individual who is constantly in search for the right and more love. If you belong to such a category loving many times is not a surprise.

True committed love

If that was Stella, and Sandy's story I have another true love snippet of my another friend Simren who has been in a relationship for past 7 years. Once when Simren had been into Inter Collegiate Competition she fell in love with this handsome dude, who kept eyeing her wherever she went. She was so engrossed with his style, the way he talked and even the way he ate. She started to move closer to know his name and all that state affairs.

She was successful to an extent, they shared the same dice that evening and then the coffee. Then the cool-in-style hunk came forward to drop her back home. Now the heroine realized that her still existing boyfriend would be there to do the same task. So, she gently apologized and said, "My Boyfriend will be here to pick me up". Though tempted she realized that there was somebody who is waiting for her. The next step of the 'true love girl' was to confess. She did confess after a week and the ' true love boy' didn't show any dispute but just said that it is the game of heart.

Falling in love may happen more than once even in a strong commitment, but it depends only on the individual how he/she would take the infatuation forward? Infatuation is not commitment, it is just a minute phase attraction that will not last for long. Love is a pure commitment for just one person for the whole life with whom you would love to share everything your decisions, goals, aims, body and every desire. All the people who were in love, are in love and searching for love determine what you want from a relationship if you do not want to get a hurt.

Love Messages To Boost Love Relationships

2008-03-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Would you like to make your beloved smile amidst the busy work hour? Do you want to add some spice for a cuddling night? Then get down with colorful papers and pen. Win over those joyful moments in just a fraction of seconds. Here are some love ecstasy tips just for you. It's time for some real fun.Love notesNothing is as sweet as a surprise love message. Put that extra special ingredient in your love life by adding these sweet messages in the places he/ she would rarely expect. However don't hide it so well that the person won't find it! Leave it in a place that you are sure he/she will go looking. For instance, inside his briefcase or her make up box, the car seat, inside his coat pocket or her purse, in lunch box or just attach it to the doorknob. Here are some love notes that you can use,

Apples are sweet and cherries are tart, when we're not together, you're still in my heart.

Waiting for a cuddly night!!!

Seductive lines like, "I want to be your private dancer to night."

I have a surprise for you!!! See you at _______.

Just a love note to say the most precious words, " I love you Honey

If the phrases seems to be too old or genuine then simply list your own thoughts and present it in the form of a great letter that makes his/her face brighten with the priceless human gesture, smile. You can pen them down in a greeting card or a handmade heart shaped papers. Let them now you still crave for their love each second of your life. Make sure to seal it with a kiss or rose petals.

Love calls and E- love

If you think you are not artistic to pen down some thing in a hand-designed papers then try love calls and e- love. Call him/her in the least expected work hour just to say, 'I am thinking of you even in my busy schedule. You have bewitched my thought and my life. I want you right now. Love you always." Or just start showering sweet kisses as soon as he/she picks the call. If the company restricts you to call during the busy schedule then send him/her a written mail. It need not be too long, just few words to spice up love life.

Drop in to pick him/her from work

After a days love note, drop in after work to take him/her for a long drive or to his/her favorite restaurant. If that is a waste of time after a day's hard work then just take hold of him/her right into the bedroom to celebrate love in each other's arm.

Useful tips

The message should be more about you than your loved one. Let them know how you feel about him/ her with your simple words. Make sure its just not a series of compliments.

If possible, admit your negligence or flaws in the message, if you think you have neglected your partner for a while. Let them know you are flawed and you hate hurting them.

Do not be dirty with your description, especially if you're penning it down for a woman. Romance leads to sexuality but you do not have to push it to gain the ends. Do not discuss how much you want him/her to get dirty in the bed. Discuss romantic thoughts and intimacies like hugging, kissing and snuggling. Remember these things are as sexual as anything you share in the bedroom.

(First published in living.oneindia.in)

Who Belongs To The Insane World? (True Life Story)

2008-03-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

By : Sharon Supriya

As I knocked opened the wide creaky wooden gate to enter the 'Insane world' (as looked upon by the sane people - 'Mental asylum'), cold sweat ran down my spine. I had packed in gallons of fear, anxiety, curiosity with a sigh smile that I portrayed to all the people who looked at me when I passed in front of them. I did not want those bearded men and dazed women think, that I was here to creep into their thoughts.

As I hurried towards the managers office, a man with sunken eyes, and saliva dropping down his mouth clasped my hand and started rubbing it with care. I thought I will burst out in my loudest voice for help, but I couldn't sense any danger, so asked him calmly to let go my hand. He looked at me, and then my hand and stated brushing it again. When I was completely in a muddled stage, he sat down, still clutching my hand, with a soft tear rolling down his cheek. By now I had settled down near this man, with spilled food on his clothes, bearded face and shabby hair.

With a low tone, I asked him curiously, “what is your name”. He did not respond. But stared at my hand without battling his eyelid. Then he screamed out aloud, to blow my life away. As soon as he released my hand, I was on my toes to find a hiding place. To my rescue I found a doctor, who called the maids, (who were wandering here and there for no reason) to grab the pesky man and take him inside his dome of loneliness.

I took a deep sigh of relief and and asked what made this man insane. I wanted to know his story. The doctor said, “ can you believe, in his early years he was a scholar at school and college?.... There was not a single being in the whole city who could excel him in anything in the city. He lead a normal life, got married to his longtime girlfriend and had a daughter of 16-17 years. One day when they were returning after a late night party, a gang of drunk party freeks stopped the car, took hold of his wife and daughter and gang raped them right in front of him. Some say that the daughter managed to run near him for help.... as he held her hand, the rogues, belted and stamped the little girls hand until it was covered completely with blood. The incident was reported in the next days paper, where he was pictured staring at his daughter hand without battling his eyelid. Since then he holds every other girls hand imagining it as his daughters hand.”

I couldn't utter a word, my water filed eyes did all the talking. I walked upto his room, and stood clutching at the window bars. He saw me again, ran towards the door, with a smile and clasped my hand before I could run back with fear. I held his hand with mine and kissed his dampened fingers, and said, “thank you, you were a wonderful father.” He let go my hand with a smile and danced on his feet clapping his hand vigorously.

After a few session on Psychology I made my way back to the creeky gate of mental asylum, without any fear. As I walked through the garden, my heart weeped seeing each and every being there, lost in their imaginary world either running for victory or for peace. As I was about to bid them bye with a smile I saw a little girl probably of age 10 -12 staring at the dawning sun. She was covered with mud from head to bottom. After few minutes she knelt down hurriedly and started digging the ground with her tender hands. She was searching for something..... when he couldn't find anything, she poured all the mud on her head and weeped loudly. She did that until she was forced inside her doom. I wonder what the insane world had done to the child, to be locked up here for life....

Parenting Challenges Of Disabled Children

2008-03-04T22:54:00.000-08:00

By: Sharon Supriya

As the rain poured high and cleansed the city with its chattery noise, I found shelter beneath the sheet of a bus stop. As I shivered to the cold blow of the wind, I saw a little girl holding her mother's arm with a gentle smile. She swayed her arms to feel the bliss of the chilled water drops that dropped with a rhythmic tone. Her mother joined her child's joy. After few minutes they settled down near my seat, both didn't speak a single word. It seemed, the eyes did all the talking. The girl opened her little book that had the baby pictures of everything from the bright sun to the naughty Jerry rat. The last picture was very unique, it was picture of a woman with a tear and a smile.

I asked the girl, "who is this?". She just glared at me with a smile. I repeated my question, "If you tell me who is this, I will give you a Cadbury?" She didn't answer a word. I thought the child was bit prisky to pass that odd smile again and again to my question. I looked at the mother for a response. She said, with a tear in her eyes and a smile on her lips "Ask her with actions..... she is deaf and dumb".

The agony of a parent having a disabled child is heartbreaking, but the state of the child is not much consoling either. To live a life with disabilities is not just a challenge to the child but also to the parents. Rather a bigger one, as they have to build the child to survive in the world with a head held high. Here are some guidelines to fade those tears and bear that smile for a life time. Read parenting tips for visually impaired, hearing impaired and dumb children.

Simple Guidelines For Parents With Visually Impaired Kids

Accept the harsh fact that your child is not ordinary. Never force them to do things that they cannot do. Rather boast their confidence with things that they can do with little effort. For instance, if your child is blind but is a wonderful Singer, help them join singing classes. You never know he/ she may be the future voice of the biggest stars.

Let the act of expressing your beliefs, hopes, dreams and confidence be a routine part of your interactions with the kids.

Don't make them brood over a single place in the house. Give them responsibilities. This will help them be independent and survive the toughest wind.

Set realistic, positive expectations in accordance with a child's age, development and functional abilities. Let them be independent, when they do minute things personal hygeine, dressing...etc. This is a good practice to start with younger children. Cheer them every time, they master these tasks. After they are firm in their duties, help them get ready for more.

Blind kids should be introduced to as many aspects of life outside their home and comfort zone too. Help them get exposured to new situations where they can learn to be comfortable in unfamiliar settings. Never make them dream about all that goody goody world, they need to understand that the world may be cruel to them, but at the same time they have the skills to get out of trouble or avoid it all together.

Celebrate your child's strength. Gift them a piece of applause amidst a group for all their well furnished qualities.

Simple Guidelines For Parents With Hearing and speaking impaired kids

Well! Most of the guidelines remain the same as the above. However some of the different aspects you have to concentrate are

Always remember, it is hard for them to communicate their own needs and dislikes. Make an attempt to understand them with action sand vice versa

Accept your child as he is. Allow him to feel unconditionally loved.

Join a parent support group where you can share experiences and worries with others in a similar situation. Educate relatives, friends, or neighbors about your child's disability and communicate your needs and feelings.

Increase understanding and love among siblings as having a sibling with a disability can present unique challenges for children. Do your best to help them understand their sibling's disability. Teach them how to help when they see their sibling in need. Discuss together ways to handle difficult situations. It helps the disabled child grow a normal life.

(First published in living.oneindia.in)

Help Wipe Away The Hidden Fears - Child Sexual Abuse

2008-03-03T23:10:00.000-08:00

By : Sharon Supriya

"I am the finest doll of my parents, with chubby cheeks, rosy lips, curly hair, just as the nursery poem. I was just 5 years old when my doll figured body, made a beast hungry. The hungry beast pounced on me to fulfill his dirty desire. It was the usual night with the same twinkling stars, bright moon and soft breeze. But, that night made me fear darkness to such an extent that for years I screamed when the lights were turned off even for a second.That night my mom and dad had to go out to for some work, so they decide that they will leave me in my neighbor's house for two hours. I didn't like the guy's look for he had a weird smile and a fat belly. As my mom placed me in his arms I squealed and said I will join them. They didn't listen. The beast bribed me for a lollypop. I took it, gave a smile and waved to my parents to get locked inside the concealed fear for years.

After my parents left he latched the door and darkened the room. He then started licking my neck, whenever I licked the lollypop, when I would cry or say no he would tickle and make me laugh. He pressed my lips on his chest. His body smelled like a dead foul, I was trapped, I could not move. I just closed my eyes as I knew I was helpless, and prayed that when I opened it was just a dream and I would be back in my mother's arm.Just then, I heard the knock on the door and the sweet voice that cried 'Dolly.... ma and pa are back'. The ghostly bear carried me gently in his arms to present me to my parents. I did not tell them any thing. I don't know why. However I made a point to hurt myself whenever my parents thought of keeping me with him even for a second. Years rolled by, I am 22 today and far away from that savage creature but till date he still chases me in my dreams and makes me cry. "It's a true story of one of my best friends, Dolly. In 2003, approximately 906,000 children were victims and an estimated 1,500 children died of abuse or neglect. Your child may be a victim too. Read to know the physical and emotional signs of abused child its preventions and healing.

Signs of sexual abusePrevention is better than cure. So try protecting your child than making an attempt to heal him/her later. Children need their parent's guidance and protection till they understand the difference between good and bad as well as the complete knowledge about body. If the child has gone through child abuse he/she may not tell due to fear or bashfulness. It's the duty of the parents to check on their each and every move to know if they are suffering from any emotional, physical or behavioral changes. Some of them are listed below.

Physical:

Stomach aches, vomiting or headaches.
Difficulty in walking or sitting.
Stained or bloody underclothing
Anal, oral or genital venereal diseases
Pain, swelling or itching in genital area.

Emotional :

Aggressive or hyperactive
Affectionless or overly affectionate.
Nightmares, bedwetting or phobias
Gets irritated for no reason
Clings to you all the time due to fear for relationships.
Withdrawing from any games and spending time alone.

Behavioural :

Unusual sexual behaviour or knowledge of any sexual practices.
Change in eating or sleeping habits.
Compulsive behaviour like urge to repetitive bathing.
Depression or suicidal thoughts.

Avoidance of undressing or wearing extra layers of clothes.

However, remember that these characteristics may not necessarily indicate child sexual abuse. In case of abuse, these behaviors may overlap and may be seen in excess for a particular period only.Heal your child Do not over react after realizing the hard-core fact. Prompt the child to answer all the queries without making them feel insecure. Inspire your child to live without fear. Assure that you are with them in all the circumstances. Tell them that you believe them and understand their emotions. Be his/her friend more than a parent at that moment. Remember that this is the time that they would like to share their deepest feelings with someone. Make sure that the someone will be you!Do not separate them from the society, but give them courage to face the society with their heads held high. Report the abuse to the police than covering it up. The culprit should be punished so that he/ she will not be able to shatter some other innocent life. Help them to love and worship their own body and tell them they are not at fault.

For the children

Life is like a roller coaster ride if you're on the downhill today you will be on the top some other day. Do not succumb to defeat but rise to conquer newer heights. Do not conceal your fears and pain. The more you lock it inside the more you will suffer. Explode it, for you are not at fault. Commune those piercing thoughts to your parents or friends who can be of help. Do not step back to ask for help from the psychiatrists. Survive, with the odds. It's your life do not let the beast shape it. Mould it into a beautiful piece for the world to admire.

(First published in living.oneindia.in.)