Excerpt from a Speech by Chetan Bhagat

Don’t just have career or academic goals. Set goals to give you a balanced, successful life. I use the word balanced before successful. Balanced means ensuring your health, relationships, mental peace are all in good order.
There is no point of getting a promotion on the day of your breakup. There is no fun in driving a car if your back hurts. Shopping is not enjoyable if your mind is full of tensions.
"Life is one of those races in nursery school where you have to run with a marble in a spoon kept in your mouth. If the marble falls, there is no point coming first. Same is with life where health and relationships are the marble. Your striving is only worth it if there is harmony in your life. Else, you may achieve the success, but this spark, this feeling of being excited and alive, will start to die. ……………….
One thing about nurturing the spark - don't take life seriously. Life is not meant to be taken seriously, as we are really temporary here. We are like a pre-paid card with limited validity. If we are lucky, we may last another 50 years. And 50 years is just 2,500 weekends. Do we really need to get so worked up? …………….
It's ok, bunk a few classes, scoring low in couple of papers, goof up a few interviews, take leave from work, fall in love, little fights with your spouse. We are people, not programmed devices........." :)

"Don't be serious, be sincere."!

10 Ways to Increase Imaan: A Reminder for Myself

1. Recite and ponder on the meanings of the Quran. Tranquility then descends and our hearts become soft. To get optimum benefit, remind yourself that Allah is speaking to you. People are described in different categories in the Quran; think of which one you find yourself in.

2. Realize the greatness of Allah. Everything is under His control. There are signs in everything we see that points us to His greatness. Everything happens according to His permission. Allah keeps track and looks after everything, even a black ant on a black rock in a black moonless night.

3. Make an effort to gain knowledge, for at least the basic things in daily life e.g. how to make wudu properly. Know the meanings behind Allah's names and attributes. People who have taqwa are those who have knowledge.

4. Attend gatherings where Allah is remembered. In such gatherings we are surrounded by angels.

5. We have to increase our good deeds. One good deed leads to another good deed. Allah will make the way easy for someone who gives charity and also make it easy for him or her to do good deeds. Good deeds must be done continuously, not in spurts.

6. We must fear the miserable end to our lives; the remembrance of death is the destroyer of pleasures.

7. Remember the different levels of akhirah, for instance when we are put in our graves, when we are judged, whether we will be in paradise or hell.

8. Make du'a, realize that we need Allah. Be humble. Don't covet material things in this life.

9. Our love for Subhana Wa Ta'Ala must be shown in actions. We must hope Allah will accept our prayers, and be in constant fear that we do wrong. At night before going to sleep, we must think about what good we did during that day.

10. Realize the effects of sins and disobedience - one's iman is increased with good deeds and our iman is decreased by bad deeds. Everything that happens is because Allah wanted it. When calamity befalls us - it is also from Allah. It is a direct result of our disobedience to Allah or perhaps a test, But whatever it may be, It is for our Best.

Warm and Cool

I've always tried to figure out different patterns in pictures, paintings, numbers, words and even nature. The way they intertwine, complementing and supplementing each other.....like fire and ice, earth and sky, black and white, etc. is quite fascinating and the differences make us appreciate everything around us.

Well maybe I'm going off topic now, but then these differences is what makes things around you go in harmony and recently I realized more than ever how my parents, so different in their character, complement each other so well, that we felt we never missed a thing.

My dad is a bit strict, but quite cool too. Most of the times he likes to keep things for himself, but when he speaks, he does so frankly and it could hurt at times, but then, later you realize that it is all for your good. You know your flaws, then you learn how to overcome it.

My mom is quite the gentle and warm personality and she never keeps things in her head. She always speaks out what she thinks and what she thought about it before and what she thinks we must do about it. Always a smile and sometimes a frown.

Discussions during dinner is one of the best. We put forward our daily experiences, ask for suggestions, etc. and my dad puts forward his opinion and looks at us to make our own decisions and mom tells us what she thinks we must do.

I realized that their very differences complement them so much that we always thought we never missed a thing at home. And I should say that I'm reallly very lucky to have parents like them, Alhamdulillah. Being human beings they do have their flaws, but they are quite open to criticism as well. Well, it just doesn't feel alright when they are not together and even when we are not together. I miss you guys! Hope to see you soon!

Absent Minded Me

I don't know if I'm stupid or careless or dumb or reaaallllllyyyyy ABSENT MINDED.......but for a fact today when I got in my car I realized I had left my car window OPEN since yesterday evening!!!!

Hmmm.......this could be a car adventure ;)

Other adventures for the day

- Went at 130kmph today n realized my car gives the speeding alarm at 130 kmph n not 120 kmph

- I'm still not used to taking a turn at 80kmph

- My car is so noisy that people realize ITZ coming!!!!

For You, A Thousand Times Over.....

"Amir Agha, For you a thousand times over....", said Hassan

Well, a quote from The Kite Runner, which has been embedded in my mind for quite some time now. The Kite Runner was a very emotional book, I was in tears through out the book. What really touched me was the unconditional loyalty and trust of Hassan towards Amir. This day, this age, where do we find such loyalty? such sincerity? despite the way Amir treats Hassan?

Well, this quote really made me think.....will I be able to tell this to someone or anyone? 'For you, a thousand times over...' Is there anyone in my life that I place even before me and would do anything despite the consequences that may befall me? I dunno....But I do know that there are some people whom I would happily dedicate my actions to and then there are some people who make you want to do things for them...just because of their personality....

Maybe one day I would really and honestly say, 'For you, a thousand times over.....', to someone really special, someone whom I would place before myself, someone for whom I would be ready to sacrifice myself......God knows the best.....

The Little Angel

Every Friday afternoon, after the Jumat services at the Central Mosque (and shortly after Al-Usrah program), the Imam and his eleven year old son would go out into their town and hand out "PATH TO PARADISE" and other Islamic literature.

This particular and fortunate Friday afternoon, as the time came for the Imam and his son to go to the streets with their booklets, it was very cold outside, as well as pouring rain.

The boy bundled up in his warmest and driest clothes and said, 'OK, dad, I'm ready!'

His 'Muâallim' dad asked, 'Ready for what?'

'Dad, it's time we gather our tracts together and go out.'

Dad responds, 'Son, it's very cold outside and it's pouring rain.'

The boy gives his dad a surprised look, asking, 'But Dad, aren't people still going to Hell, even though it's raining?'

Dad answers, 'Son, I am not going out in this weather.'

Despondently, the boy asks, 'Dad, can I go? Please?'

His father hesitated for a moment then said, 'Son, you can go. Here are the booklets. Be careful son.'

'Thanks, Dad!'

And with that, he was off and out into the rain. This eleven year old boy walked the streets of the town going door to door and handing everybody he met in the street a pamphlet or a booklet.

After two hours of walking in the rain, he was soaking, bone-chilled wet and down to his VERY LAST BOOKLET. He stopped on a corner and looked for someone to hand a booklet to, but the streets were totally deserted.

Then he turned toward the first home he saw and started up the sidewalk to the front door and rang the door bell. He rang the bell, but nobody answered..

He rang it again and again, but still no one answered. He waited but still no answer.

Finally, this eleven year old da'wah-expert turned to leave, but something stopped him.

Again, he turned to the door and rang the bell and knocked loudly on the door with his fist. He waited, something holding him there on the front porch!

He rang again and this time the door slowly opened.

Standing in the doorway was a very sad-looking elderly lady. She softly asked, 'What can I do for you, son?' With radiant eyes and a smile that lit up her world, this little boy said, 'Ma'am, I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but I just want to tell you that “ALLAH REALLY LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU” and I came to give you my very last booklet which will tell you all about God, the real purpose of creation, and how to achieve His pleasure.'

With that, he handed her his last booklet and turned to leave..

She called to him as he departed. 'Thank you, son! And God Bless You!'

Well, the following Friday afternoon after Jumat service (during which period they hold a weekly program, Al-Usrah) the Imam was giving some lectures. As he concludes the lectures, he asked, 'Does anybody have questions or want to say anything?'

Slowly, in the back row among the ladies, an elderly voice was heard over the speaker. As the voice went on, a hint of glorious gaiety and contentment was plainly evident in it even though it wasn't to be seen, 'No one in this gathering knows me. I've never been here before. You see, before last Friday I was not a Muslim, and thought I could be. My husband passed away some time ago, leaving me totally alone in this world. Last Friday, being a particularly cold and rainy day, it was even more so in my heart that I came to the end of the line where I no longer had any hope or will to live.

So I took a rope and a chair and ascended the stairway into the attic of my home. I fastened the rope securely to a rafter in the roof then stood on the chair and fastened the other end of the rope around my neck. Standing on that chair, so lonely and broken-hearted I was about to leap off, when suddenly the loud ringing of my doorbell downstairs startled me. I thought, I'll wait a minute, and whoever it is will go away

I waited and waited, but the ringing doorbell seemed to get louder and more insistent, and then the person ringing also started knocking loudly............

I thought to myself again, 'Who on earth could this be? Nobody ever rings my bell or comes to see me.' I loosened the rope from my neck and started for the front door, all the while the bell rang louder and louder.

When I opened the door and looked I could hardly believe my eyes, for there on my front porch was the most radiant and angelic little boy I had ever seen in my life. His SMILE, oh, I could never describe it to you! The words that came from his mouth caused my heart that had long been dead TO LEAP TO LIFE as he exclaimed with a cherub-like voice, 'Ma'am, I just came to tell you that ALLAH REALLY LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU!'

Then he gave me this booklet, Path To Paradise that I now hold in my hand.

As the little angel disappeared back out into the cold and rain, I closed my door and read slowly every word of this book. Then I went up to my attic to get my rope and chair. I wouldn't be needing them any more.

You see? I am now a Happy Vicegerent of the One True God. Since the address of your congregation was stamped on the back of this booklet, I have come here to personally say THANK YOU to God's little angel who came just in the nick of time and by so doing, spared my soul from an eternity in Hell.'

There was not a dry eye in the mosque. And as shouts of TAKBIR!!! ALLAH AKBAR!!! rented the air, even among the ladies, despite themselves.

Imam-Dad descended from the pulpit to the front row where the little angel was seated....

He took his son in his arms and sobbed uncontrollably.

Probably no jama'at has had a more glorious moment, and probably this universe has never seen a Papa that was more filled with love and honor for his son....... Except for One. This very one....

Blessed are your eyes for reading this message.

Instincts

Sometimes instincts are really scary. Your intuition says something will happen and it really happens. At times you fear something might befall you, and you pray that whatever will happen doesn't cause you too much harm and a catastrophe does happen, but doesn't affect you so much, your prayers would have helped you. When you see that most of your instincts did occur and you get that deja vu feel and now, there is another instinct haunting your mind, all I can do is pray and hope for the best.......

Instincts can haunt you for quite some time.....

And I thought Planning and Time Management was everything.......

The last couple of months have been quite busy for me. Both at work and at home. I kind of had a vague idea that things will get busy, but I thought that 'multi-tasking' was my thing....that I would be able to manage it by proper planning and time management!!! Well, so much for thoughts....for one thing, planning never works....I keep forgetting something essential, something like an absent-minded person and the other thing, time just flies, it is as if it just flows through your fingers and you can't really hold it!!!

Planning is all in the head, practicalities of life pose new challenges and exposes unforeseen circumstances. The pace at which time flies is so hard to grasp that at times I would just wish, how great it would be if time came to a stand-still!!! But then again, when exposed to a very very busy schedule, I just want to escape from it, I just tend to be lazy and do nothing! Yes, absolutely nothing, but read comics and leisure books and watch cartoons. Now I know why time is flying....and I really can't get myself to hold it and I've given up on planning as well.....Just live each moment to the fullest.....'Hakuna Matata'

At the end of the day all that matters is whether you are satisfied and happy living the way you are.......oh well, it doesn't always have a happy ending though.....

My Car Mis-Adventures!!!!

Well, like any normal driver on the road, I've had car mis-adventures and the funniest thing is, it has been only during these few months that I've had quite a lot of them. Yes, as it is called, 'The Charm of Three', I've had 3 car mis-adventures in last couple of months, AND, when I have to go to a meeting from my office!!!! Well, the 1st mis-adventure had a happy ending, the 2nd one was the worst and the 3rd one was a heroic one!!!

Well, before I begin with my mis-adventures, I'll just give a background of how the car parking at our office is. Well, itz messed up, only the managers' get the reserved parking and for us 'other' employees we have a ground or dirt lot a I like to call it (refer picture above). Well, I just can't believe how people here park their cars. Well, the first few people who come park properly and then itz the time for late comers who just park anywhere and rush off to their offices, blocking some cars here and there, taking too much space and so on and on.....Frankly, I felt the car parking at our university 'Dirt Lot' was better. The students were so organized and also were quite considerate about parking properly and giving others space to go......n one of our professors even sent email to congratulate the students being impressed seeing the parking on the 'Dirt

Lot'!!!

Ok...now for my mis-adventures....One fine morning, I go to my office as usual, was about to park on the second row, but then I remembered, 'Aha...I have a meeting today, so have to leave at noon. Got to park my car somewhere accessible!' So I parked my car somewhere towards the end, thinking that late comers would just leave their cars in between the first few rows!!!So, for the meeting at 1pm, I left my office at 12:15, walked to our wonderful parking lot, and got to my car...and a surprise awaits me there.....there are 2 cars right in front n behind my car....basically my car is jammed from all 4 sides!!! Hmmm...what do I do? the meeting is in about 35 minutes and it takes almost half an hour to reach the venue.

I call up my boss, 'Hey Doc! I have a problem!'

'What is it?'

'The parking lot-My car-I can't take it out. Itz surrounded by other cars!! What do I do????'

'Any solutions???'

'I'm not sure!'

In my mind I was thinking, 'Can I ditch the meeting?', but well, itz better not to say that out loud ;)

'I'm also on my way to the same meeting, but I can't pick you up 'coz I'm half way there. Go to the 4 seasons and take a limo from there to the meeting'

'Ok...I'll see!'

In my mind, 'There is no way I'd come with you anyways!!Hmm....4 seasons, Limo, not a bad idea ;)'

So I walked back again in the scorching heat to the 4 seasons...

'Do you have limo service?'

'Yes, ma'am'

'Ok, take me to ____(my destination) ASAP, please'

'Ok ma'am. Hop in!'

Enroute, the driver tells me, 'Ma'am it costs about $30 for the drive.' My jaw drops, well, I have the money and now I'm almost halfway I can't jump out!!! But then again it is in a Jaguar, so, well, I can't help it ;) !!!

Anyways, I call up my boss to give him an update, 'Doc, I'm on my way. I might be late by a few minutes.'

'Ok. By the way I forgot to tell you, the limo service will be a bit expensive, so take the receipt and get the money reimbursed tomorrow!'

'Ok. Thanks' ^____^

So that was my 1st mis-adventure. Basically I abandoned my car at the parking lot until the next day. The meeting venue was near my dad's office, so I got back home with him and I got a ride in a Jaguar!!!!

Now for my 2nd mis-adventure....this was kind of serious. So another fine day, I parked my car in a place which I was sure wouldn't be blocked, went to my office. Meeting at 12pm...I left my office at 11:15am, the crazy elevators give me the slowest one and finally I reached my car. Alhamdulillah, it is not blocked. At this time, there was road works going on close by, so when I got in the car and was driving it, I could hear something like a bull dozer. And when I reached the round-about, I could feel that my car was kind of strange. Like it wasn't pulling. After the round-about, I was on the fast lane and the guy in the black land-cruiser was flashing lights behind me, so I took the slower lane and he comes right behind me and flashes again. And then I thought, maybe something is wrong with my car! So, I pulled my car to the side lane and Lo n Behold, I have a FLAT tyre!!! The guy in the Land cruiser gets out, and asks me something in Arabic, I give him my polite smile,

'I'm sorry I don't speak arabic!'

'Do you need any help?'

'Well, it is ok I guess....thanks....I'll call someone for help! Thank you =)'

And the guy leaves. I call my dad....he doesn't answer his phone. I call my boss, 'Doc, a problem! My car has a flat tyre and I don't think I can make it for the meeting! Do you have Mr. J's number?' Well, Mr. J is the project manager who is organizing this

meeting. 'Yes. I'll send it to you in a minute. Make sure you attend the meeting atleast through telephone, ok?' 'Ok!' So, I call Mr. J and tell him my situation and he told me to calm down, fix the car and it wouldn't be a problem if I miss the meeting. So, my dad calls back, I brief the situation and he said he would come after work to change the tyre! So, my car is parked where

the road works are going on, and I wasn't sure if it was

ok to leave it there. Since I couldn't find any workers to enquire about the same, I left my car there, with a note (refer the pic on the right) to contact me if there was anything and walked back to my office. And this part of the world is not a place where ladies walk on the main road by themselves....but well, whatever, I just had to get back to my office which was like 750 meters away in the scorching heat. So, I miss my meeting, got scolded for not trying to be in the meeting via telephone and a walk in the hot sun! Tired...tired...tired!!!

Now for my 3rd mis-adventure. I'm still ROFL thinking about what I did. But then, I always do the most unexpected things, so itz high time I get used to it!!!

Today, unexpectedly, it was a bit too early when I reached my office, and I parked my car in the first row near the temporary barricade. Well, this time, I didn't have any prior appointments, I just had to go somewhere at noon. Off again to the wonderful parking lot, and, well, there are a row of cars parked in a way that we can't take our cars!!! Hmm...what do I do? My boss always says, 'When you have a problem, think of a solution!' My Options:

1. Hit the cars , make a dent and go!

2. The temporary barricade, move it and take the car in reverse gear

Yes. Option 2 it is!!! Me, the so called 'lady' in black moves the barricade and for some reason, there were 2 barricades behind my car. Well, I just moved those barricade which was a bit heavy, got in my car, took reverse and left! I didn't bother to put the barricade back to how it was. My black dress and black gloves were brown with the dust!! It must have been quite a sight for the people on the street. But, I had to get to my destination, n this was the only 'harmless' option I had!!! Yeah...yeah...laugh all you want!!!

Oh...well...quite a big story...so I'll stop for now!!! n I'll be back soon ;)

Prophet (SAW) 's Wasiath to Ali (RA)

(1) Refrain from sleeping between Subah and Ishraq; Asr and Maghrib; Maghrib and Isha (2) Avoid sitting with stingy people (3) Don’t sleep between people who sit (4) Don’t eat and drink with your left hand (5) Don’t eat those food you have taken out between your teeth (6) Don’t break your knuckles (7) Don’t look at the mirror in the night

(8) Don’t look at the sky while in salaath

(9) Don’t spit in the toilet

(10)Don’t clean your teeth with charcoal

(11)Sit and wear your trousers

(12)Don’t break tough things with your teeth

(13)Don’t blow on your food when it’s hot

(14)Don’t look for faults of others

(15)Don’t talk between iqamath and azan

(16)Don’t speak in the toilet

(17)Don’t speak tales about your friends

(18)Don’t antagonize your friends

(19)Don’t look behind frequently while walking

(20)Don’t stamp your feet while walking

(21)Don’t be suspicious about your friends

(22)Don’t speak lies at anytime

(23)Don’t smell and eat

(24)Speak clearly so others can understand

(25)Avoid travelling alone

(26)Don’t decide on your own but consult others who know

(27)Don’t be proud of yourself

(28)Don’t be sad about your food

(29)Don’t boast

(30)Don’t chase the beggars

(31)Treat your guests well with good heart

(32)Be patient when in poverty

(33)Assist a good cause

(34)Think of your faults and repent

(35)Do good to those who do bad to you

(36)Be satisfied with what you have

(37)Don’t sleep too much- it will cause forgetfulness

(38)Repent at least 100 times a day

(39)Don’t eat in darkness

(40 )Don’t eat mouthful

May Allah guide us all in the right path....Ameeen

The Journey of Life

From a forward email

Every woman is seen off from her home on two occasions. Once when she leaves her parents' home to get married, and the second time when she leaves her home in this world to travel to her abode in the hereafter.

Each girl grows up knowing that her parents, home is not her permanent home and that she will one day have to bid her family farewell to settle in her own home. If only all young girls would wait in anticipation for and dream about their second farewell as much as they do for the first. If only they would prepare for the second one as much as they do for the first. if only each parent would mentally and physically prepare their daughters for the second departure as much as they do for the first. Although the reality is that we should prepare for the second far more than the first, for our eternal fate depends on how well we are received when we reach our final destination.

Consider the following:

*During the first farewell, there is a great anxiety about whether or not the husband-to-be will be happy with her. Whereas for the second journey we have to worry whether or not Allah will be pleased with what He sees.

*Before the first journey the girl will take a long bath to beautify herself, whereas for the second she will be bathed by others.

*During the first journey she takes a grand trousseau with her, whereas the trousseau for the second journey is nothing but righteous deeds.

*She will share her joy with every woman present at her first farewell, whereas during the second one she will be all alone.

*During her first farewell she is dressed in the most expensive of outfits to please her husband, whereas the dress that will beautify and adorn her for the second journey is the the attire of "Taqwa".

*Invitations are handed out to celebrate the auspicious event of her Wedding. here Allah Himself invites her to Jannah. And Allah invites towards the abode of peace." (Al-Quraan)

*For her arrival, her new home in this world is decorated. For her arrival in Jannah Allaah decorates Jannah such that "no eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, nor has such beauty ever crossed anyone's imagination" (Hadeeth).

*On the occasion of a wedding, the hosts welcome the guests. Imagine a celebration in Jannah, where the host is Allah and we are the guests! Imagine being welcomed by Allah, while the angels also greet us.

*When we attend a wedding we are given appetizers. When we enter Jannah each person will be given a piece of bread as an appetizer that will encapsulate all the flavours of the world.

*If the husband is happy with her, the first night the woman spends with him is most cherished, and she never ever has nor will enjoy such blissful sleep as she does on the night of her wedding. Similarly, if Allah is happy with us when we journey to Him, the Hadeeth states that the person is told in his/her grave "Sleep in the (peaceful/blissful) manner that a bride does."

*If she is not accepted at her first home in the world, there is always the option of retuning to the sanctuary of her parents' home where she will be taken care of. There could even be a second chance to build a new home. Whereas if we are not accepted in the court of Allah after the second farewell, there is no other place of refuge and no second chance.

Ponder O sister! Which farewell should we concern ourselves with more.

In Fond Memory of Her

Day before yesterday, I was walking through the footpath lined with small shrubs, when I noticed some sparrows on those bushes. It sparked the memory of my grandma or uppuma as I used to call her. She had given me an embroidered pillow case with sparrows and the words 'Good Night' and 'Sweet Dreams'. With time, the pillow cases' clothes got worn out, but the embroidery she did has been intact......

She was an amazing woman. A very talented person, an all-rounder. She used to sing, tell us stories, she used to do very intricate embroidery, be up to date with politics and current affairs......a prodigy we all used to look up to. We could easily learn from her that looks never really mattered, it is the substance you are inside that makes you and your world.

Next week and it will be 2 years since she passed away. Our life goes on...but we do miss her....and the person who misses her the most, is her better half....my grandpa.....when I look into his eyes, I can see loneliness, which he tries to hide and he tries to move on as well.....and believe me he has been doing a great job at that!

Follower of the Crowd or A Trendsetter?

Let me begin with a question to all of you out there, just think about it, and see how practical it is. If given the option of either being a trendsetter or a follower of the crowd, what would you choose?

The choice is upto you, but I'm quite sure most of you would've chosen to be a trendsetter. Everyone likes to be different and also be appreciated. When someone looks upto you, you'll feel great!!! But how practical is it to be a trendsetter? Especially our society (in particular my society, with people who like being typical and can't stand changes!!!) ...being a trendsetter attracts all the eyes on you and criticism and what not!!!! So, most people, even though they aspire to become a trend-setter, they tend to be a follower of the crowd. Just do what the society expects me to do and then I need not hear people's comments!

But are you really happy? Trying to live the way people expect you to live? Come on, give me a break!! People themselves have no idea what they want in life, what will you do trying to satisfy them. And even if you manage to satisfy some, you won't be able to satisfy everyone....'coz each one has different tastes. Am I telling you to be a trendsetter? No! Then am I advising you to be a follower of the crowd? No! Just be YOURSELF!!!

Being yourself is the toughest thing in life.....'coz we have our own dilemmas regarding how to be ourself. By being yourself, you bring out your individuality and tend to appreciate people for what they are, rather than who they are. Another important aspect while being yourself is that you need people around you who helps you be yourself, in which case not all are lucky!

I've lived my life so far my way. I've lived my beliefs and I've never tried to hide what I am, even though I don't necessarily open up to everyone. Being honest with myself has always given me satisfaction and peace of mind. Supportive people around me are one of my biggest strengths. I don't know if it is because of my personality or individuality, I've had people (whom I assumed to be typical) support me on the untypical things I do and telling me to go forward with my views. Alhamdulillah.

I've never tried to be a trendsetter, 'coz I don't like to be the center of attraction and I'm a human being, I have my own flaws and I hate being a follower of the crowd as well. I just like to be myself, stay true to myself, live on my whims and well, I can't hurt people around me who care for me and who have always supported me. My parents, my siblings, my friends, my extended family members.......I've always had someone or the other support me. Alhamdulillah.

I'm just hoping that things go on the same, even when seasons change.......hoping for the best....

My Virtual Realm

I've been thinking about all the social networking sites and how we maintain the friends and connections out there and am quite reluctant to really go out and speak to the person when I come face to face.

Yes...this happened to me recently. There's this person on my friend's list in a social networking site and well, 2 weeks ago, she was standing some distance away from me. I wanted to go tell her 'Hi', but then I wondered if she would remember me, 'coz the last time we met was maybe 6 years back and she wouldn't really recognize me or so I thought. Maybe a smile wouldn't have hurt, but well, she wasn't looking in my direction.

That is my nature. Some might portray it as arrogance, but I'm quite reluctant to go and say a 'Hi' or even smile if I 'think' that the person might not know me, even if I know the person!!

Ironically I was reading this article in the In-flight magazine last week, 'Smileys or Smile?' and I couldn't help but reflect on myself, a social animal on the social networking sites, but very selective in real life!!! Well, this is a Virtual Realm....an Illusion.....and my very own Utopia. I present here what I want and it could just be a deception!!! Thatz one of the reasons I don't add people whom I haven't met at least once personally on any of the social networking sites, 'coz I don't want to give a false impression n neither do I want to deceive.

Sorry my dear friend(s)......for not coming to you to say a 'Hi'!! It so happened during last year that I went and told a 'Hi' to one of my classmates from high school and she didn't recognize me, that has made me even more reluctant to open myself up....in reality!

Wake Me Up When September Ends

There are loads of things I want to blog about. But most of them are highly personal, so I refrained myself from writing them. This years Ramadan has been verrry different. Neverthless, it has been good so far, Alhamdulillah. I'm expecting to get busier from now on. And a dozen days without net access later this month. And maybe lesser time to blog, or come online when I'm back in Q-land. Moreover, my biggest blog critic is on vacation, so I really don't get so hyped up to blog these days!

So, I'm off...Itikimaaas....hopefully I'll be back after September and hopefully I'll be on track!!!

~~~~~WaKe mE uP wHeN sEpTeMbEr Ends~~~~~~

Eyes: A Window to your Soul

The first time we met, I looked into your eyes....

The conversation we struck, embedded in my mind.....

I was confused, I knew not what to do....

Should I keep looking at those eyes?

Will they engulf me? I didn't take the risk....

I lowered my gaze lest I lose my footing....

Those eyes still play with me....

I wonder if I can see deep within....

Through the window to your soul.....

I wonder if I can touch your heart....

And I keep wondering and wondering....

And my thoughts keep wandering....

Ramadan in the Holy City

2 years, i.e. in 2004 and 2006, I've been in the Holy city of Makkah during the last week of Ramadan. And as ramadan is approaching, I feel drawn to that city again. I'm travelling tomorrow, to another city, which is quite the opposite of Makkah Mukarramah.....I'm not really very enthusiatic about it. I just feel the the piety and tranquility of Makkah and Madina hitting me.

I should say that I am quite lucky to have been able to go there thrice. The experience was enthralling. Itz just like, you live, but you don't care about food. All you would like to do is pray and to be good to others around you. All the people around you are just like you. Everyone is equal. Everyone has an equal opportunity to pray to God. To break the fast, you get dates and zam zam water, just have them and your thirst will be quenched, you feel refreshed. You get to pray so many times, but you never get tired. I don't know if it is the effect of Ramadan or if it is the effect of the city. But, even if you don't eat anything, you don't feel hunger, and even if you keep walking, you never get tired.

I just loved my experience there during Ramadan and if anyone has the time and ability to go to Makkah and Madina, I would highly recommend you to do so, especially in the Holy month, when the city is bustling with people and prayers. Just imagine the multitude of thawab (reward) you get in the city. And the peace of mind you experience there is another priceless thing.

Intention or Niyyath

“INNAMAL A’UMAALU BIN-NIYYATH – WA INNAMAA LI IMRI IN MAA NAWAA…”

This is the first Hadith in Saheehul Bukhari narrated by Omar-ibn-Al-Khattab[R]:

I heard Allah's Apostle saying, "The reward of deeds depends upon the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended."

It is necessary for us to have good intentions while doing anything. Especially as Muslims, we seek the pleasure of Allah in any walks of our life and doing things with good intention increases the bounty.

As a person, I truly believe, that if our deeds are governed by good intentions, deep within our hearts, no matter how others try to portray you as bad or pray for calamity to befall us, it will not affect us. We have the inner satisfaction of doing things for a good cause with a good intention. Mental peace, which leads to contented life. All begin from good intention.

And people with good intention will always receive good things. It is all what you have hidden deep down inside you. If you are pure in your heart, fear nothing, God is always with you and, remember, your heart is an open book to Him and only Him. He will never forsake you. Do Good, Be Good and Think Good!!!

Guilt

There are a lot of times when I hurt people, unintentionally. It doesn't really strike me that I've hurt them until later. But by then it is too late. Either I don't get the opportunity to apologize properly or I don't get the circumstances to apologize. It might be about the timing. I try as much as I can not to hurt people intentionally. So, I live with the guilt for quite a long time. And when I meet the person again, either I forget about it or they forget about it (or most times, they didn't even get hurt, it was just me thinking that I hurt them.)

But it sure is tough to move along with the guilt. And as a person who likes to keep my feelings to myself, I don't share these guilts and get over with it. It just accumulates and over time, one day I just break down with everything. Most of the time while in prayer, I seek forgiveness. All my tears they keep running down my face, but I don't like it when others see. I just want those moments with God and myself to replenish me.

As Ramadan is approaching, I would like to take this opportunity, to apologize to all those people whom I've hurt unintentionally. Maybe through my words or actions. I'm sorry for letting you down and for hurting you. I just don't like to live with guilt. To Err is human, to Forgive is Divine. And I seek forgiveness from Allah, always......I just wish that my tears can erase the guilt and sooth the hearts that I've hurt.

A Cool Day

Well, not exactly cool as in cold weather. Summer is still on and the temperature is around 45 deg Celsius, but the experience(s) I had today was quite, well, different and an eye-opener.

First thing in the morning, I go down to start my car to go for work, and no response. The battery was drained, so my car didn't start. Luckily for me, my dad's friend had left his car with him while going on summer vacation, so my dad told me that I could take his car!!! Well, yes, his 'King', Camry, which he is sooo possessive about and I was excited, thrilled and scared too. I have to be careful. I just loved driving this babe....it was sooo smooth. Well, not that I hate my car, my Chevy Aveo, but initially I didn't like it. But then I got used to it and then began liking it. But when you get the taste of something better, you yearn for it even more.

Then at my office, around noon, my computer froze. And I had this file with all these data, which I hadn't saved and that also went with ice. So, now, I've got to re-do it. Well, after all these, I was complaining to my colleague, not exactly my colleague, but my boss's colleague about 'my wonderful day' and when I told him about the car, he was like 'You must try driving my R8 TT.' And I was like, 'Do you mean Audi R8', 'Yeah. The 2 seater, sports car!' And I was like, 'I'll take this offer!!' Well, yes am crazy about cars and I guess I would grab any opportunity to drive a sports car!!!

Now, itz the end of the day. I thought maybe there will be a charm of 3 and I was wondering what the 3rd thing to freeze will be and I'm still wondering.......

Seasons of Life

We had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun.....Well, yes, a song by Westlife.

Unlike yesterday, today was quite refreshing. After a long time, I met and talked to a person who had spent a lot of time with me during our university days. It felt good to walk down our memory lane, together. And it also helped us to see the changing seasons of our life. What we were as kids, as teenagers and where we might end up as adults. It is a long road, with all sorts of twists and turns, and at times a hell of a roller coaster ride.

The college days that were warm and fun and office days when things are so so different....the competition, the responsibility, the gossips......Life is changing and so are we. Before when I thought I couldn't grow up and now, I know I have to grow up. But I will take my time, step by step, I'll head towards my future. Who knows what it will hold, but hoping and praying for the best....for myself and others......

The Sky and the Stars

I happened to read an article today whicch was regarding Annual Perseid Meteor Shower this week...on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Well, when I read this article, I remembered our road trip to Saudi during Ramadan 3 years ago....it was on the 27th night of Ramadan. The road was pitch dark after we left Saudi border and there were a lot of trucks and a few cars. My sis and I were sitting in the rear seat of the car and all around us, it was pitch dark. After a while when I looked up the sky, it was beautiful!!!!! There were so many stars twinkling in the pitch dark sky. And believe me, I have never seen so many stars in this part of the world.

Then I sat there wondering, was this the miracle of Laylathul-Qadr? It is said that Laylathul Qadr falls on an odd night during the last 10 days of Ramadan and I have also heard that it could change every year. What is the significance of Laylathul Qadr? It is better than 1000 months. So, if you do a good deed on the eve of LAylathul Qadr, it is like you have done a good deed for 1000 months. It is the night when all the angels ascend down....

That night was beautiful! Subhanallah....nature is so very mystique and it engulfs me completely. I just love the serenity and tranquility it provides. Simple happiness.....

A Wish

At times, how I wish I could escape reality

To run away and take solace in mother nature....

To run away to the green meadows all by myself....

Quench the thirst and gulp down the view of the blue sky....

To feel the cool wind gushing past my face

Trying to blow mw away with it.....

To lie on the green meadows and watch the birds fly in the sky....

To feel the earth beneath and the smell of the mud after first rain....

How I wish I could just run away to a place

Where I just don't have to think about anything or anyone

Just satisfy myself with what nature has to offer

To see, to hear, to feel, to smell....

But then I'm drawn back to reality...

Wherever I run to, I try to escape to

I just don't find any green meadows....

I don't feel the cool breeze hitting my face...

But I feel the scorching heat and see the barren land....

With nature changing itz color.....

How I wish I could run back with time....

How I wish I could lie on your lap....

How I wish I could listen to the water....

How I wish I could feel the breeze....

How I wish I could see the green and blue shaking hands....

How I wish you'd replenish me.....mother nature!

Today's Techie Trivia

I had attended a vendor's presentation today. They were from China and were presenting a lot of techie stuff. What really caught my attention was the laptop they were using AND the laser keyboard. YESSS!!! The laser keyboard that we usually see in the forward emails was right in front of my. My boss took it from them for a while and was playing with it and his boss was asking me, 'Can you see it?' 'coz as usual I was occuppying one of the seats at the back. Yes, I had my fair share of inspecting the equipment remotely. It was just amazing!!!!

Well, technology fascinates me. I just enjoy the pace at which things are going these days and well, get quite excited with all the teknoratti around. I'm quite happy that my job allows me to be exposed to more technology :)

2 Years on Blogger and 75th Post!!!

I just noticed that this is my 2nd year on Blogger.

I began blogging after I read some inspirational quotes during my summer vacation and wanted to share them with everyone. Then I began posting good forward emails on my blog, 'coz last year after I returned from vacation there were so many emails in my inbox (not to mention I have half a dozen email ids multiplied by 100 emails...LOL), that I was concerned about my friends who check their emails only occassionally and what a nuisance my forward emails would be for them and how difficult it would be for them to retrieve important emails. So I decided to be a good girl and send forward emails only to people who check their emails often or who sends me forward emails often. Then I began blogging my thoughts and when the philosopher or poet within me decides to awaken, I jot them down too. And so blogging has become an obsession(??) Not quite. I can write only when I have the mood to write and that happens...well...at times. And these days I don't get as many forward emails as I used to, so posting forward emails is also lesser.

Now I'm thinking of writing book reviews/summaries or Japanese drama/anime/manga summaries. I don't know if I'll really do it, but I had a yahoo 360 site dedicated for that, then I got bored. Well, who knows. It all depends on my mood.

And speaking of 2nd anniversary of blogging, this is my 75th post on the blog!!! Cool, huh? I never thought I'd reach this far. Thanks to all the voluntary readers, followers and commenters. And for those whom I impose to read my blog, hehehe, thanks for yielding and bearing my writing. I really appreciate all your support!

Religion vs. Tradition and Culture

Well, this post is not to debate whether religion comes in front of tradition and culture or vice versa. But just my views about the same with respect to my observation. This is higly personal opinion and has no bias towards any religion or culture. Comments are welcome though.

Have you ver wondered what has always dominated most of the societies all over the world? How traditions were established and how religion was adapted? What dominates our life? Is it religion or tradition? When we speak of religion everyone has their own version of it. Some might be orthodox, highly adhering to religion or a little bit of religion here and there. Not many follow their religion to the core, not many can, 'coz of the society. Society has their own set of rules, which comes down as tradition or an established culture. And they expect everyone to follow cultural customs to the core. This influences in distorting religious outlook. Culture is made by people and it evolves over time. With time, many unwanted customs blend in with culture and it keeps evolving. And society expects people to follow culture.

Religion is God sent. It doesn't change, need not change. But the pace with which human beings run, we fail to keep up with Him, we forget Him and the obligation to Him and even to thank Him. People don't care to satisfy God, but they want to satisfy the society and believe me, society can never be satisfied. 'Coz if you are satisfying one sect of the society, there might be another sect who will not be satisfied. In the end, everyone is at a loss.

Culture and tradition keeps evolving and not everyone can keep up with the change in society. So it is better to live life your way and try to satisfy yourself and God. 'Coz in the end, you return to Him with all your deeds!

Tsubaki's Dilemma - Part II

This is the 2nd part of my short story. I'm hoping to complete it with this part. If you haven't read part 1, please click here to read it. I've edited some parts there as well highlighted in blue.

Also I tend to get carried away while writing, so I've decided NOT to write short stories any more. I feel that this is quite long for a short story and well, I get too many ideas and it is a bit troublesome to merge them all.........now for your feedback :)

Story continues....

The Reunion

Tsubaki sat on her couch, staring at her packed bags, she wondered how she'd manage. Her Onii-chan had managed staying by himself beginning from his university days. So she thought she would be fine. But it was getting into her. Then suddenly, her cell phone rang, an unknown number. "Moshi Moshi, Tsubaki speaking. Who is this?" After a brief chat, she hung up the phone. She was so happy, a call from the person she never expected to meet again. Yes, this person would join Tsubaki after 2 days, even though for a brief period of a week. Tsubaki couldn't believe her luck! What a timing! But then everything in Sakura's life has been about right timing.

Yes. That was a call from Sakura, her only good friend during university days. Unlike other so-called friends who approached Tsubaki only when they needed her, Sakura was different. She was always there for her during her good times and bad. She never demanded anything and neither did Sakura need any help from her. Sakura was amazing by herself. She was good at academics, and unlike Tsubaki, Sakura was good at communicating with people and people were always drawn to her because of her personality. How much she wished she was like Sakura, but Sakura always consoled her, "You are unique Tsubaki and there will be no one like you in this whole wide world. Just be yourself and don't think about things far away. Live each day as it unravels its mysteries. Solve them!" Yes, that was Sakura's approach to life. Live each day to the fullest, tomorrow will have its own troubles that is not worth thinking at this moment. Sakura had moved to Korea after university. She only did her undergrad in Toudou, after that she took up a job and moved with her parents to Korea. Tsubaki missed Sakura a lot, during her Grad-school days and even during work. For the brief time that Sakura was in Japan after university, she used to visit Tsubaki and well, it was a relief for Tsubaki. All the happy memories with Sakura came forth at this moment.

Sakura was coming to Japan for a week for official purposes and had called to ask if she could stay with Tsubaki if she was staying alone or if Tsubaki cared to join her for a week, wherever she was staying. A week with Sakura was more than a dream come true. She knew Sakura could help her to get out of her dilemma or atleast help her stand on her feet.

Tsubaki moved to her new apartment the next day. Being the weekend, she unpacked her bags, which she thought she wouldn't if Sakura wasn't coming and tried to make the place look and feel like home. She wanted to make Sakura feel at home and well, it had been 3 years since they met, they had quite a lot to catch up on. Sakura was due to arrive that evening. She had given her the address. Sakura's company was a client of Tsubaki's company and Sakura was heading the project Tsubaki was dealing with. Sakura would have to come to Japan quite often and if Tsubaki's boss would allow it, she could be the representative to Korea.

The door bell rang, it was Sakura. What a joyous moment it was for both of them meeting after so long. One glance at the house and Sakura exclaimed, 'Did you just move in today?', sheepishly Tsubaki replied, 'Yes. I've been planning to move out for quite long and now since my project is so demanding, I'll have to stay close to my office.'

Sakura knew how attached to her family Tsubaki was. While at university she never attended any parties held by her friends 'coz her parents didn't like it and she always tried to please her parents. Sakura lived life her way. She had her own ambitions and she always balanced with many many things. It was amazing how she did that. She never sweet talked to anyone, but her personality was so pleasant that people felt like being with her doing things for her. Tsuabki often wondered if people like Sakura existed. One day, she had blatantly asked her, 'Saura, why are you always so nice to people?' Sakura was surprised. She was like, 'Am I always nice? I thought I got angry and expressed my anger quite well to people who got on my nerves or am I always good to you 'coz you are so sweet and never get on my nerves?'

Well, it was after that she noticed that there were people who were scared of Sakura as well. She hated people who were lazy and while at university, she never gave her homework for everyone to copy (unlike Tsubaki) and well, if she couldn't stand people, she showed it. It was more like she sent the 'don't approach me' signal to people whom she was uncomfortable around. But she got along many people.

Tsubaki got back to reality. Sakura hadn't changed at all and immediately made her feel at home. They talked about their parents, home, siblings, career, university days....and they had so much to talk. And then Sakura asked, 'How does it feel starting to live by yourself?' ' Frankly speaking, I'm a bit scared. But my work demands it.' 'I'll help you get settled in then. And I'm happy to see that you have unpacked your things the 1st day. How are things at home?'

'All are fine.' 'But I can sense that something is not really alright. What is it my dear? Is it anything related to your being single?'

Sakura sure was sharp. 'Yes. It is.' 'Is it your parents?' 'No, my grandmom.'

'Oh well. It is ok then. If your parents are cool about it, no worries. You'll find your knight in the shining armor at the right time!'

'How's your family life?'

'Yeah. It is fine. I live with my husband now. Got to manage house and work. But it has been fine so far. Hmmm....By the way, does that Vice President of the company get to your nerves any more?'

Well, this was something Tsubaki hadn't told anyone except Sakura. This VP guy was their classmate from university and a snobbish brat at that and a perfectionist. Sakura was the least affected by people around her. She had her own standards and she competed against herself. But Tsubaki always tried to compete with this arrogant brat, but not really succeeded. She thought she got rid of him after their graduation. But last year when she began working, she was shocked to see the VP of the company, son of the President. Now she knew where all the arrogance came from and he hadn't forgotten his old classmate, who was always at par with him. Well, he did make life tougher for her. He got her involved with almost all the major projects. Well, yes it was a boost to her career, but there were times when she wanted to take a lighter project and so on. But he always liked to keep her busy and in the office. 'Like hell, he does. I feel like running away from the place.' ' Persevere my dear persevere. Finish this project and try somewhere else if he doens't want to give you rest. Or go talk to him. Tell him you need a break. I bet he would understand.' 'As if he would. He is such a perfectionist and he believes I can handle anything.'

'But once in a while, it is good to take lighter projects and get back home to rest.'

'Yes, it is true. But it did boost my career quite a lot. I've reached a high position within this short span of time.'

'Maybe you'll take over his position, the VP.'

Tsubaki said, 'Its not impossible' and smiled.

Being with Sakura was so welcome. Tsubaki could always throw her tantrums, complain about anything and Sakura would listen and really listen and give a lighter comment or a smarter suggestion. They went shopping the next day and it was so much fun. They had such a good time together and getting her apartment set was just so easy with a person around her.

Tsubaki felt so good to get back to work on Monday. She wondered if she would get this project with Sakura and if she could travel to Korea. A change in atmosphere would be good to refresh her and forget about her personal problems. But she knew she couldn't run away from these problems. She had to face them head on, but she had to get some more time to prepare herself. It was always about being mentally strong and being prepared. She never knew how Sakura was like that, but like her name, Sakura was 'Cherry Blossoms' and always brought about a smile and warm feeling to people whom she cared about.

Tsubaki knew she had a long way to go before she could become a better person, but she knew she was better than when she was at the university and now, moving by herself was one of her strategies to be mentally strong and independent. Well, it was also trying to prove to her mother that she can be a good daughter and surprisingly she could manage her apartment quite well and with Sakura around it was heaven.

Finally, it was the day Sakura had to leave. Tsubaki did get involved with the project and would have to travel to Korea quite a bit. They both sat down and remembered their uni days, when they just had all the fun and no responsibilities, the long vacations, the bunking classes and their cherished friendship, which has been burning alive for sometime and they knew it would never fade away. They had their hearts connected no matter where they were. They were their confidants and they felt secure with each other.

True friendship is neither broken nor shaken by distance or time or whatever comes in between. They always last and no matter how, where or when you meet again, you can always see who is your true friend.

Tsubaki's Dilemma - Part I

This is my first attempt at writing a short story. Could have instances related to real life or some stories, but I don't mean offence to anyone nor do I mean to copy anyone's story. Feel free to criticise and comment. All suggestions are welcome. I could put on the anonymous option for commenting as well. Have fun reading. YOSH!! Here I go.

Tsubaki's Dilemma

Loneliness

She knew she was different. Her sister used to always tell her, " Onee-chan, you are physically girl and mentally boy!!" She used to brush it aside saying, "Maybe. There is a saying that goes, don't ask a woman her age and a man his wage. Now you can ask me neither!"

Now, Tsubaki was really questioning herself. It has been more than a year since she has been working. She had always worked part-time, be it during high school or during university. She loved the financial independence she gained that way, so she didn't have to ask her parents for pocket money to buy books, accessories and all. The job she landed in was also quite a good one, what else would an acer from TouDou land in? On the surface everything might seem smooth for the others, but Tsubaki was thinking of moving out by herself, to stay at an apartment close to her work place. At 25, this was quite common in Japan, but for Tsubaki, her ties with the family was quite strong and not being able to return to her home, to her Okaa-san, after a tiresome day at work seemed quite lonely.

But no matter what, she had to move. She had late office shift these days and add to it the traffic she reached home quite late. And the project she was working on these days was quite demanding. She had managed her own finances and had always made her own decisions, be it regarding her future career or studies and also offered her suggestions to her Otou-san regarding his business. So, well, she considered herself a good son. She did cook a little bit, if instant noodles are included in that list and helped her Okaa-san with some household chores. But Okaa-san still didn't trust her to manage the house by herself. So, is she a failure as a daughter? But her Otou-san used to tell her, 'My dear, it is easy to cook. It is only getting the things ready and the aftermath of cooking that is tedious.'

Not only this, now her grandma was moving in with her parents and she couldn't really stand her grandma's talks. Not that she hated her grandma, but these days all her grandma talked about was to get Tsubaki married. She loved her grandma otherwise, they had the healthiest relationship ever. Ever since grandma's neighbour's daughter got married at 22, she had been pestering Tsubaki's mother to get her married. So that is another reason to move out.

Tsubaki didn't consider herself a marriage material. Not that she hated men, but men seemed to be intimidated by her. At TouDou, she was the acer and most people looked at her with awe. Well, it was more like she seemed to be in a different world than others. She couldn't really call anyone her friend and unlike her sis, Yuki, she wasn't the social and outgoing person. Yuki was always surrounded by friends, she always got phone calls and she was a happy-go-lucky person and she was very girly. Tsubaki was a very reserved and shy person, but she had the thirst for knowledge and her curiosity always got over her shyness.

Now, she was sitting in her room, had packed all her things. The movers would come to pick her things up tomorrow. She felt sad to leave her house and wondered how she'd manage. Her Onii-chan had managed staying by himself beginning from his university days. So she thought she would be fine. But it was getting into her. Then suddenly, her cell phone rang, an unknown number. "Moshi Moshi. Tsubaki speaking. Who is this?" After hearing the voice, she smiled. She knew who it was.

To be continued......

Glossary:

Onee-chan -Elder sister in Japanese

TouDou - Tokyo University

Okaa-san- Mother in Japanese

Otou-san - Father in Japanese

Moshi Moshi - Hello (for phone calls)

Love your Parents

A short video. I've seen an email with this story floating around for quite sometime, but the video nearly brought tears to my eyes.....

Ad War: Apple vs. Blackberry

This is my 70th Blog Post. Never thought I would reach here when I began writing 2 years back. Now, I've reduced the number of forward emails that I send, I know it will be a relief to many, and instead post good forwards here. Keep checking, read and enjoy my blog. If you feel like encouraging me, do comment, 'coz there have been times when I thought I should stop blogging, but a few of my faithful readers keep me going ^__^!!! Arigatou gozaimas (Thank you very much)

Now, for the blog.

Advertisement war: Apple vs. Blackberry

These days the major competition in telecom sector aimed at customers is whether to use Apple iPhone or Blackberry. I don't have an answer, since I didn't try either of them.

Anyways, the videos say them all....I really like the creativity in advertisements. Thank you Kavi for sharing this mail with me.

The 1st video: Blackberry takes a shot at Apple and the 2nd video: Apple's response. Have fun!