The Power of Hope.

It is customary to reflect what all has happened in our personal lives, individually and to our family members during the year- 2007- that is just coming to an end. This reflection stirs up many of our emotions, some of which have a cascading effect in our outlook and attitude. Yet, it has been a proven maxim that to sail in life smoothly and happily “One needs to develop a positive attitude”. We all indulge in this exercise every year around this time and some of us resolve to do better in the next year. Thus, we begin afresh our life of HOPE.

The problems in life are transitory in nature, for they keep coming at you as per your perception and mind set. Problems that weigh you down are best tackled with a positive frame of mind and left aside without pondering too much on them. Those events which have brought joy and happiness may be allowed to linger on for a while, before they get lodged into a corner of your memory.

I am in the habit of maintaining a personal diary for years, which habit I imbibed from my father. I keep rummaging through those diaries occasionally if not often. They certainly invigorate me most of the time, though some of the events I recorded sadden me, but do not depress me. In hind sight, sometimes I feel they should not have been put in print. But, then that would reflect only a part of me.

I recorded my medical history very briefly. Reading this along side my diaries surprised me how a state of feeling- “HOPE” keeps you going ahead, and how powerful it is.

We all hope for the best in all our endeavours, and wish the same to all those who come into our life. We do say that hope is life and life is hope.

As we grow old, we better be aware that we take a reverse path of growth- in mind and in body. The path becomes more painful if you are carrying an illness, and most of us would carry.

Yet, if you develop a hopeful feeling that would be excellent which would prove to be the king of all medicines. I bet on this. This is the Power of Hope.

How do you develop this?

Study the problem, analyse it threadbare, and get aware of it. Consider this as a problem thrown into your lap by nature, through one of those mysterious ways of god. The first step to tackle the problem is not to think too much about it, but kindle your hope steadily, and strengthen it. Put your mind into those activities which takes you away from the depressive moods, and slowly cultivate them as a regular habit. Your HOPE gets built slowly, becomes your partner in progress, and turns into a powerful force.

This way you lay a hopeful path.

I Wish each and everyone- Known OR Unknown to me- a Happy and hopeful year of 2008.

A wishful list of Hopefuls:

I hope:

1. The Schengen zone example is followed in countries across the world, where there is a possibility. In the years to come, the zone would have 24 countries that include many from Eastern Europe. A scenario unthinkable a decade ago.
2. Belgium Does not break. Flanders and the Walloons patch up their simple differences.
3. The Kosovo issue is resolved.
4. The Americans elect a Leader sensibly, and not carried away by rhetoric’s.
5. Whoever becomes the US President, resolves domestic issues, and evolves a new foreign policy.
6. The countries in the Middle-East Region think in terms of economic prosperity for their people instead of indulging in sectarian violence.
7. Pakistan elects a leader, who has a vision to put the country on a path to progress.
8. The terrorists all over the world lose their physical and mental senses, and die a mysterious death.
9. The leaders in India develop character worthy of emulation.
10. The Asian continent grows spiritually, and sets a trend for tolerance and peace.
11. I get back to my feet from my wheel Chair, if the above happens.
12. And finally, with the blessings and grace of god, the power of hope works.

Tailpiece: In me Senator Barack Obama has an admirer, outside of USA. If he believes in ‘The Audacity of Hope’, I believe in ‘The Power of Hope’. Why not you too?

A Heinous Crime.

The assassination of Ms. Benazir Bhutto is an extremely wicked crime. Al Queda has claimed responsibility for the assassination, and goes on to declare that it did the act, as she was a precious asset of America!

What rubbish talk? The organization has no shame. The fundamentalists who continue to support these terrorists would eventually have to pay a price for it.

It is time that Moslems all over the world introspect, and come out openly to condemn these acts of terrorism.

The military rulers in Pakistan, who have been in control of that country, have never won a battle even as a military unit, which they can be proud of. They are a disgrace to their own country. They have been training terrorists, nurturing them, telling the outside world a pack of lies, betraying the trust of other countries. They misappropriated billions of dollars, and sadly there is no account for it. It has to be written off.

Ms.Benazir Bhutto’s assassination is going to have an impact on the type of governance that nation is going to choose in the long term. The people have been left in the lurch by these power mongers, and it is time the world help them to choose their own leader in a peaceful atmosphere.

Peace loving Indians feel very sad at the turn of events, in Pakistan, although something of this nature was in the air. She escaped an earlier attempt.

We all feel close to the Pakistani people, as they speak a language known to all of us, and continue to feel disgusted at the intransigent attitude of some of their leaders. The one thing that is lacking is a “MUTUAL TRUST”

As a first step, Musharraf should reinstate the dismissed judiciary; invite the existing political leaders of all parties, evolve a consensus decision to put the country on a course of prosperity. After the meeting, he should depart from the scene, and live in exile. The army should get back to barracks. That is their place.

As an ordinary person, what more do I expect?

Intellectual Slavery.

Whenever a State minister or Central minister of our country, come to address a meeting or inaugurate a function at an educational institute (An example), I see plethora of officials connected with the institute accompanying him/her vying with each other to be as close as possible to the minister, with folded hands trying to explain a point here and a point there. These scenes we see regularly being shown on TV, and published as a photo feature in the national newspapers.

The body language of these officials irritates me. They reflect an attitude of Servility. These officials go overboard, and reply to the queries of the ministers in a slavish manner, repeatedly uttering - ‘Yes Sir’. This is again annoying.

The leaders want this attention, and should they feel absent of it, they express their annoyance in no uncertain terms. Sometimes, the head of the institute is pulled up for not extending ‘due’ courtesies to an elected representative!

It is a pity that this culture is so ingrained in this country that a powerful intellectual lobby that is capable of influencing a public issue is wanting.

There are ever so many associations representing their interests, but always seem to work at cross roads, thus proving ineffective finally, and invariably end up as an affiliate of a political party.

The attitudes set by the political leaders, have percolated in all public and private institutes, be it an academic institute, a corporate or even a small school. This, I feel is the cause of Intellectual slavery. I mean this servile attitude.

I am not saying that the leaders should not be shown respect, but they can always be addressed with courtesy, politeness and uprightness.

They say, the pillars of democracy are the legislature, the judiciary, the bureaucracy, and the media. The legislature is instrumental in framing rules and regulations for governance and by their position enjoy enormous power. This power corrupts their mind and body. They misuse their power vested in them. They treat those officials who do not tow their line of thinking, with scant respect, and very often chastise them in public.

The officials, who are well educated, are by and large selfish; seek favours from these leaders for personal gains.

Those intellectuals who are upright, have belief in certain values and have a code of ethics are side-lined.

So, in every pillar of democracy, we have officials, calling themselves intellectuals adopting a servile attitude, thus causing damage and reputation to good and fair governance.

This phenomenon is not confined to India alone. I see this pattern in almost all the countries that are in the news for wrong reasons.

This intellectual slavery could be a cause for lack of visionary leaders growing into statesmen the world would respect.

Global Surveys

I have been reading with great interest, the blogs written by many in the statesmanblogs, on many issues. I do say that they have enhanced my perception of issues of importance, and enriched my knowledge. Some of the comments to blogs have been on a personal level, which I genuinely felt ought to be avoided. This is for the simple reason that the writers have an absolute right to their views as they see and perceive to the best of their knowledge.

When I was in Austin during the first three months of this year, I watched many of the PBS programmes on TV, and came to know about the United States-based PEW Foundation. On my request they sent few brochures of their Organisation, through which I came to know the wonderful work they are doing.

Through their global surveys, they seek worldwide public opinion on many issues - political, social, and economic - and publish their findings. It’s a source of knowledge and awareness of issues.

I would strongly recommend many of my gentleman blog writers, friends and others to visit the website (http://pewglobal.org/) to enhance their thinking further.

Now, the survey findings reflect the opinions of global public as a group. Many of us, being individuals and not part of the survey, may differ with the findings. That is fine. But what matters is that they churn your thoughts further, and provide you a basis to form a better opinion and understanding of the subject and the particular issue.

THE HINDU, one of India’s national newspapers carried an article - “India in the world: how we see ourselves” written by Meera Nanda, in its edition dated December 11, 2007. The writer has summarized some findings of the Survey conducted by Pew Foundation for its 2007 Global Attitudes Survey. The writer has highlighted the Indian perception. I read the article with much interest.

Being an Indian, I sometimes find very difficult to assess a fellow Indian’s mind. This is because our actions do not always match our thinking. It could be true in my case too! But that is for others to judge! Many a time we contradict ourselves. This is no doubt unfortunate, but that is the way human nature sometimes is. It is certainly complex.

A parting word - Comment certainly, but do not hurt the feelings. One can be articulate, in speech and in writing. Yet, views can be communicated strongly.

There is a proverb in my native language - TELUGU. Translated, it says “A person, who gets along in life, without hurting himself, and without hurting others, is a wise and contended man.”

Shedding Uniform - Musharraf Style.

Pakistan President Gen. Pervez Musharraf shed his military uniform, put on the majestic Civilian clothes and sworn in as a Civilian President for a second five-year term. Could this be later extended to life-term? The U.S Secretary of state described this as “a good first step”, and waiting for the second step, that of “lifting the Emergency”. That Intended to be lifted on December 16^th. The international community is “Half Happy” so to say.

But the person, inside the Uniform earlier and in Civilian clothes later, is the same. If shedding attire and putting on the other were to be a key for a change of heart and mindset, we are to believe that present day leaders would require several trendy clothes!

This act reminds me of the fairy tale - Little Red Riding Hood, in which there were four characters - The little girl, Her Grandmother, the Wolf and the hunter. In this fairy tale, the bad wolf enters the house of grandmother in the guise of little girl by wearing the red hood, eats the grandmother, and then waits for the girl, disguised as the grandmother. It waits for the girl and eats her too as she enters. Later on the wolf is killed by the hunter, and the little girl and her grandmother come out. The moral of the story is a lesson to the children not to go alone into the forest.

The citizens of Pakistan are akin to the little girl; grandmother is the Supreme Court; Musharraf - the handsome wolf; and the hunter is the International community led by the USA.

Handing over the command to his handpicked person, and getting sworn in by the judges appointed by him to continue to exercise power, President Musharraf has not shed his dictatorial tendency. In this new capacity, it would be naïve to believe that he would be an important ally to fight the terrorists.

It is a pity that the country appears to be devoid of leaders, even on the distant horizon. Any how, it is difficult to predict the future under the circumstances. We only wish the country has a democratic form of governance and peace reigns soon.

I never visited Pakistan, nor do I hope to in future. Many Indians view that country as a recalcitrant state. That Country views India as a ‘Bully’! Be that as it may, I am fond of their Cricketers, who like Indians are greatly talented. They are currently in India, playing matches and the on going contest is thrilling, with India leading in the test series at the moment. On and off the field, there is a tremendous goodwill for all the players, playing the game in true spirit. This is one game through which genuine friendship can be built and consolidated between the countries, and many an issue could be settled through diplomacy, which anyway going on and off for decades. I do say that the citizens of both the countries desire peace as never before, more than anything else since the partition 60 years ago.

The leaders are the Block on either side, with distrust deeply rooted in their blood. They are egoistic, beat around the bush during discussions, and sign in to continue their talks further. We hope this mindset changes, and the blockade is eased.

Tailpiece. He that put on a public gown must put off the private person. - A proverb.

It is better to develop a well-rounded Personality.

These days I see lot of articles being written on ‘Personality Development’. The emphasis in those articles is on cultivating certain traits that are essential for success in one’s career life. But, then career life is only a part in one’s life. Many of those, who are successful in ‘Career life’, lack basic skills in handling many works in their social and domestic areas. They avoid doing them, often depending on others to get those works done. They end up spending more money. They are often labeled, by their family members, friends and relatives, as ‘Useless’.

I am referring to those mundane works of day to day necessities. Like buying vegetables and groceries; payment of bills; banking transactions, getting works done through government departments, and minor and major household repairs etc. They also ignore household chores, and avoid helping others either in the kitchen, or upkeep of their own house. To handle these works, an attitudinal approach is all that is required. But the present day youngsters dismiss these works as trivial, boring in nature, and go about with an air of arrogance, saying “there are better things to do”. I often come across educated people who do not know how to write an application to an official/institution, and what contents to be included in that. They have this strange thinking” What do I get doing these things”? They would rather prefer spending time watching TV, and do not feel embarrassed if these things are done by others, their parents, and sometimes by spouse. In other words, they are NOT self-reliant.

I feel sad and disappointed at their attitude. I frankly do not know whom to blame for this. All I can say with confidence and pride that I have never been like them. I further say that they are missing an opportunity to become a refined and a wholesome individual, who can be called - individuals for all seasons.

Let me, for a moment, call these works - odd jobs and even trivial. With a little bit of patience, and proper planning, they can be done with satisfaction. Doing these works help you get a “Real Picture of Life” and makes you learn how the administration functions, and how you can deftly handle these works. It helps you develop a positive frame of mind in all walks of life as you grow in age. One comes to know and understand “Human Psychology”, and through this you acquire - Simple Common Sense. You acquire many positive traits like - willingness to learn; adaptability; setting short-term targets, and paving the way for achieving long-term goals; communication skills; self-belief and confidence.

At my young age, my parents and my siblings often used me to do all these jobs. At times, I did rebel and refused, but more often I did oblige. I was to learn later that these works helped me face and handle many issues with ease, in all walks of my life so far. In the process I learnt that one needs to be inquisitive, adventurous in outlook and take the initiative to face and do any task.

“Jack of all Trades, but master of none”, that is what specialists would call you. It does not matter. They are trying to cover their weaknesses. The generalists and the specialists are as much necessary to the society as the right hand and the left hand to the human body.

I never felt ashamed doing all these works, and in fact took pride in doing them. I strongly feel that doing these physical activities keep your body in good condition, and do provide grace in your physical movements.

Developing a well-rounded Personality has become all the more necessary in the present day society, where many youngsters have become greedy, selfish, and sadistic. They neither seek advice, nor happy receiving advice from their parents and other elders. They claim to know everything, but end up projecting an image of a recluse, at home and at their work place. They neither inspire, nor get inspired. In a sense, they are morose, fretful, and unhappy in mind - always.

In the present global scenario, it is imperative for an individual to learn as many skills, academic and all round knowledge, to get along in life successfully with contentment. You have to be in the team, and be an important member at home, at work place and in the Society. The aim is to make others want you, feel your presence as a necessity in a team. For this, you should acquire and possess the required skills, keep improving them, and be different from the average person. There is always happiness in giving rather than taking.

To sum it up, “Be useful and helpful to others” that would be my simple advice.

A Nation in Distress.

The Pakistan Mess; A Bet goes sour; Darkness in Pakistan; Musharraf Clamps Emergency.

These were the headlines of Editorials and front page news that were published in Newspapers I read daily, following proclamation of emergency in Pakistan, about ten days ago. The write ups trace the events that have been happening in that country since a few months.

The declaration of Emergency in Pakistan was in the air, a couple of days before it was announced. That was the scenario unfolding as events were happening over a period. Now, it is no surprise that a military ruler using this option. This is what he knows, besides using his barrel when he is cornered.

The world has not learnt from History. There is little chance of Democracy surviving in a country ruled by a military dictator. Any dictator should know that a country cannot remain oppressed for long, would always remain unstable, and people would revolt off and on. There may not be any concrete developments worth mentioning during this period.

Civilians form the majority in any country, and they alone are equipped to deal and solve problems of the civilians. If a military ruler sheds off his uniform, he may perhaps learn the tricks to administer the country, but may not be popular.

Democracy is for the people, by the people, and of the people. In Pakistan, this has not been allowed by the Military rulers for a major part of that nation’s existence.

Of late, even among the countries where democracy is thriving, we often come across elected leaders showing streaks of dictatorship. “Do as I say, don’t do as I do, and don’t ask me questions” seems to be their style of functioning. Their greed for power and absolute power corrupts their mind. All their decisions coming out of their thinking defy logic.

Lack of Trust resulted India getting divided into India and Pakistan. That was sixty years back, and even today, distrust exists among its leaders. Several rounds of talks have been held between the leaders of both the countries at different levels, yet permanent peace and friendship still eludes. It does appear, Pakistani leaders are never interested in solving issues, but ever creating problems to seek aid, sympathy and attention without working to improve their country.

It is again no surprise that India, though desires Pakistan to be a democratic country, is exercising caution in not exerting pressure on Gen. Pervez Musharraf. The continued state of Emergency in Pakistan is definitely not in India’s interest. There could be infiltration of terrorists into the southern region of Jammu & Kashmir, and also there could be tensions alongside the borders. India has come to live with these problems, and can face them.

Indian people are unhappy with this development, and the Indian press is certainly playing its role objectively.

There are lots of similarities in our cultures. The people of both the countries desire peace. There have been stories of love, friendship, and hospitality whenever people met across.

The Cricket teams of both countries have enormous following, and whenever they meet, there is a tremendous excitement, and the level of cricket game gets raised. The hospitality shown by the fans of both countries on these Cricket teams should be seen to be believed.

Yet, it raises a puzzling question- Why there is so much of distrust? The answer seems to rest with the respective leaders. They agree at the table, but get back to playing the game of distrust, by issuing provocative statements, and projecting an image of an aggrieved nation.

America, the country so vociferously supports democratic form of governance, has been supportive of Pakistani Dictator, trusting him as an important ally in its fight against terrorism. This implies that USA is NOT supportive of Pakistani People, and their aspirations. It is no wonder that there is a strong anti-Americanism in them.

The culture and the living conditions of people in this part of the continent, is beyond the thinking of those in America responsible for framing its foreign policy. Sometimes I believe the foreign policy makers are themselves in a Marshal Law. It is better they adopt the policy of “Horses for Courses” (An idiom). It would be foolish for USA to support Musharraf further, as he has already drained them $ 10 Billion Dollars for nothing in return!!

It would be long before Pakistan returns to normalcy. President Musharraf has to be judged not by his words, but by his deeds. And this applies to Ms.Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz shariff as well. Both do not have a good track record of Governance, when they were Prime Ministers. It is unfortunate that there are no Charismatic leaders with strong credentials. Both the former Prime Ministers, may have a following, may be crowd pullers, but have no vision for that country. Yet, they would serve their country well if they remain as Party leaders, and propose a leader whose record is clean, honest, and can take that country to prosperity.

People of Pakistan have a long struggle ahead to bring in Democratic rule, and the nations of the world MUST exert pressure on President Musharraf till he steps down. As a ruler, he has nothing fresh to offer, even as a civilian. It would be in his interest to get into oblivion.

The call of a common man in Pakistan to Musharraf would be “GET LOST”

Tail-piece: A Bully is always a Coward. - As per a proverb.

If it’s breaking, it must be Belgium.

In the late sixties, a film by the name “If it’s Tuesday, this must be Belgium” was released and proved to be successful at the box office. It was a romantic comedy film, featuring a group of tourists taken on a whirlwind tour of Europe in a travel coach. It was later classified as a ‘Vintage Classic Film’. I saw it then and enjoyed very much.

That Country is now in the news, for different reason. The news that Belgium, a small nation could split due to incompatibility between Flanders (Dutch Speaking) living in the north region of that country and Walloons (French Speaking) living in the south region, makes a sad reading. The Flemish separatists want to slice the country into two independent nations - Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north, and in the south French speaking Wallonia.

Belgium is one of the founding members of the European Union. Brussels, its capital has both Dutch and French speaking citizens. It hosts headquarters of European Union, and NATO. The move to form a European union was excellent in concept despite cultural diversity that existed among the nations in Europe. In the wake of formation and advocating a strong European union to counter the Power of USA in a globalized world, where people and goods are moving to places offering scope for development, the lifestyle is slowly inching towards similarity. This being so, I am sure, many of its citizens have visited the neighbouring nations, and ought to be aware of the diverse culture that exists within the union, and in that continent. I have been reading articles that have appeared in the newspapers on this topic of breaking, and the reasons put forth by the separatists. The Walloons in the south are being subsidized economically more than the prosperous Flemings in the north; each espousing the preservation of their own culture and language. The feeling is natural, but hatred of the other is bad.

I have not visited Europe, and so not aware of its diverse culture and daily life. Yet, I do feel many of them speak more than one language, and quite familiar with living habits of other nations beside their own. Their desire is to become prosperous, and enjoy freedom. So be it. Then why think of getting split?

I, in all my naivety think the Westerners are more reasonable and rationale in their outlook to life. I am wrong. I sincerely hope the Kingdom Of Belgium does not break, and their thought of split is only a temporary mental aberration.

That mental aberration is ever present in the political leaders of India too. They raise weird issues; harp on it in the name of fulfilling people’s desire. But, of late, here too demands are being raised to balkanize states further for administrative convenience!

We the people in India, take pride in living in diversity, which is in abundance. There is so much of variety of life here. Traveling across India by train, one comes to see the diversity that exists. People speak freely in a language that is understandable.

Thinking of the breaking-up idea of those in Belgium; diversity in the way of living; train travel; compatibility, I am reminded of the story “Intrigue Express” written by Irving Wallace in his book- The Sunday Gentleman. The Train “Orient Express” running between Paris and Istanbul was forced to halt due to blinding snowstorm during a winter night of 1930. It had passengers representing a dozen nationalities, and might become irritable, troublesome, and even dangerous, due to prolonged halt. Let me reproduce a Para verbatim from that story:

A rule was made, promptly announced, and as far as possible, strictly enforced. Passengers must not discuss politics with each other. They might discuss, nostalgically, their homes, friends, experiences, they might discuss art, literature, sex, sports, but absolutely no politics. This was a sage rule that Orient Express personnel, themselves representing seven nationalities, observed on their hectic trips three times weekly between Paris and Istanbul, and it had prevented friction on the run for almost a half century.

So then, now and for ever, it is politics and the politicians who play this game and create friction. They set the trend for the public, ever so gullible as a group, to take the path of separatism. Their policies in the process of implementation often set trends of living in the society. This is evident as we see the economic disparity widen between the haves and have nots.

Every country seems to be grappling with problems that are being created, off and on by the rulers. Are we to think that this is also one kind of diversity?

It would be in the interest of all that Belgians stop thinking of breaking, set a trend and go about making the European Union strong.

Let the world hear “If it’s strengthening, it must be Belgium”.

Tailpiece

Common-sense is the growth of all countries. - A proverb.

Comparisons- In a lighter vein.

I got the idea of writing on this topic, whatever I knew, after reading the blog posting - World Cup Rugby- of my friend Bobster in American-Statesman, who writes his views under his blog - http://bobster.statesmanblogs.com/.

I thank him for this through this blog posting of mine.

It is an inborn trait in us to make comparisons of anything and everything that exists. It could be between individuals, between things, between countries, between people, between practices, between ways of living, and so on. We form of our views, which could become issues in due course. We debate, argue on them that may lead to agreement or disagreement. It could lead to verbal duals, physical duals, and duals that go on eternally. This way life goes on.

But, what is essential is that we thinking humans must accept and be aware of these differences and respect them as they are. Our thinking then becomes saner, rational and suddenly life becomes to appear beautiful to our eyes.

Why not? Variety is the spice of life, available plenty in India.

Let me compare.

Greeting

To begin with: The British say ‘Hello’, while America says ‘Hi’. In India, we say ‘Namaste’ (in Northern parts) or “Namaskaram” (In southern parts- other variants also are popular depending upon the region) at the time of greeting.

Traffic

The traffic in UK moves on left side of the road, while it moves on the right in USA. The steering wheel is on the right in UK, and left in the USA. However, an exception to this rule is made for the postal Vans in USA for convenience (!). An interesting explanation for this difference was given in one of the programmes of “Discovery Channel”. It goes like this:

The Cavalry (mounted on horses) use to move on the left with horsemen holding swords on the right - by convenience as majority of them were right handers- and over the years traffic moved on the LEFT in Britain.

The Americans, defying English Traditions kept the traffic moving on the RIGHT, and soon, the Europeans (Rivals of the British Empire) followed the American practice. But, the Britishers, as per their wont, continue to move their traffic on LEFT.

A Classic Example of the proverb “What is one man’s meat is another man’s poison”.

Game

The FOOTBALL game as played in Latin American Countries, Europe, UK and other countries is called SOCCER by the Americans, to distinguish between their own Football game, which with little variations is called RUGBY in the commonwealth and European countries.

A friend of mine was scratching his head as I went on describing these games. In exasperation he retorted “Why can’t they (Americans) call the same”? Simple! They want to be different, innovative and want the world to indulge in comparisons!! And above all, want others to follow them!

Now, compare the game of Cricket and Baseball. Cricket is a very popular game in commonwealth countries. Baseball too is played in some of these countries, but is more popular in USA, and Japan with enthusiastic following. Cricket game is played between two teams with eleven players on each side, and in baseball too the game is played between two teams but with nine players on each side. Both are a Bat-ball game. Yet the shape of the bat and ball is vastly different.

In Cricket, traditionally, a Batsman has a stylish stance- a posture by the batsman standing and holding his cricket bat while facing the delivery of the ball, whereas in Baseball, the batter stands with a different posture. The design of the bats is different.

There are stumps in Cricket, which are absent in baseball.

The pitcher in baseball stands and throws the ball at the batter for a hit, whereas in cricket, a bowler runs in and bowls to the batsman. An umpire stands behind the stumps at the bowler’s end in Cricket, and in baseball, he stands behind the batter and the Catcher.

The rules and the way the games are played is not within the purview of this blog, but comparisons are made to have a chuckle!

Language

American English is different from the British English. Some words have different spellings. There are ever so many languages with different dialects. Remember the film- My Fair Lady? - Based on the play - Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw. How Professor Higgins struggles and succeeds in making a flower girl change her way of speaking cockney accent of English to that of English spoken by The Ladies of High Society.

Likewise, the accent of English language spoken or broken (!) worldwide is very interesting to the Ears of Connoisseurs. But then, one can always raise a question - Who is a connoisseur? An Englishman, An American, An English speaking Canadian, An Australian, A New Zealander, A South African, An Indian. It’s anybody’s guess.

Scripts Some languages are written from left to Right, and a few of them from right to left. Yet, the aim is to communicate.

Tailpiece: From the book “International Dictionary of Idioms” (Cambridge University Press) Comparison: to seem less serious or less important when compared with something else. I thought I was badly treated but my experiences pale in comparison with yours.

Understanding: I never thought that languages were particularly important, but living abroad has certainly brought home to me how useful they are.

Musings in Hibernation.

During retired life, I tend to slip into contemplative moods quite often. This is more when I am inactive, and even more, when I am suffering with a terminal disease.

I am aware that this mental state is not really good for my health. So, I hop on to some other habits of mine- like Reading Books, Reading articles online, watching good old movies on the DVD player, and occasionally conversing with friends who drop in regularly. I also ponder on what topics to be posted on my blogs. As I shift on this habits cyclically, one of them interests me and I tend to dwell on it a little longer.

Oh! Yes, during the past three months, I have been watching live coverage of Cricket/Tennis Matches on TV. There were plenty of them. We Indians are pretty emotional at heart. The result of Cricket matches has a direct bearing on our moods, more so when India is playing. Since two decades, Indian women have shown enormous interest in the game of Cricket. They must have felt the need to know a little more about Cricket, to answer incessant phone calls of their dear ones from the work spots to know about the latest score.

The Twenty-Twenty Cricket World Cup won by India recently lifted their interests and raised their decibel levels while watching these matches live on TV. My wife is one of them. It was exciting to sit by her side and watch the pulsating finish of the matches.

Well, an Alsatian dog in an apartment next to my house also raises its decibel levels at least three to four times a day, barking continuously for five minutes or so each time. An old cat slowly and majestically walks on the dividing wall amidst these dins. A year old boy of our servant maid contributes to this cacophony with his cries, moaning and mumblings.

Surely, I pass through this torrid time every day. Over a period, I got used to it. I cannot resist, so I endure it. All of them are God’s creations. They have a right to exhibit their emotions. I see and hear all these through my Windows- A different operating system!

This time I dwelt a little longer on my reading habit, keeping aside others for a while. I bought a few books through amazon.com during my last visit to US, for my reading pleasure. As I have plenty of time these days, I read a book slowly.

I finished two chapters of Barack Obama’s Thoughts on reclaiming the American Dream he penned in his book- The Audacity of Hope. I find it interesting so far. He is articulate, worked his way up to where he is now, and may possess the credentials to get presidential nomination from his party. The race between him and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton seems to be heading for a close finish. The world is certainly watching. And right now, America does require a person of great vision, and whoever becomes the President, has to choose a team of competent and good leaders. A lot has to be done and the world is certainly expecting.

The world scenario today is far different from what it was five to six decades ago. The aspirations of people in any country, be it Brazil, Venezuela, USA, Belgium, France, Middle east countries, Pakistan, India, Myanmar, China or any small landlocked countries in African Continent are, to exercise freedom of speech; demand for better living conditions; and to have a type of governance they, as a majority desire. The potential leaders have to take note of this. The Politicians have to reform themselves.

The philosophy to rule is simple- Follow the policy of Live and Let others live. Otherwise, there will be conflicts. As the interests of each country are so interlinked with other countries, policies cannot be thrust. Compromises, adjustments are a necessity for co-existence. This can be achieved only through diplomacy.

I was delighted to receive a Printed copy of the Sunday edition of the newspaper- The Tribune (www.tribuneindia.com/) from its chief editor, as a compliment on my request, as its printed edition is not available easily in Hyderabad. This Newspaper, with its head office In Chandigarh is about 120 years old and known for its objective reporting. Its language is simple and straightforward. I read this paper online along with others.

It is often said that things have to be done ONE at a time. It is true. But the thoughts keep whirling around disturbing. It’s always a struggle within the mind. Yet I enjoy going through this state.

Why? I get a chance to share my thoughts with you. I get satisfaction.

Similarities.

As I read my daily newspaper- The Hindu- and the Austin Statesman (On line), I find there are quite a few similarities in the attitude of civic administration in the respective places, i.e., Hyderabad and Austin, as reported by this media.

The state of roads – many stretches develop pot holes, soon after the rains. It takes a while to get them repaired. The citizens blame the Civic authorities for poor construction, and delay in the resultant maintenance. This happens season after season. Poor laying, improper slopes, choked drainage system along the edge of the roads, are some of the reasons put forth by all. But, never set right while repairing them, or when laying new roads by the contractors.

I can attribute this apathy to: Casual approach to the work, usage of sub-standard material mix, poor workmanship, uneconomical value of the contracts, and delays in receiving payments. Despite all this, same contractors are hired again and again.

Why all this? Familiarity with these works breed contempt. The nature of work is such. To them, small is NOT beautiful.

At the lower levels, the civic administration is invariably run by ‘run of the mill’ people who are trained to do a routine work, not using their own intelligence. They are there to do what they are told to do, which again they don’t do properly! So, the citizens endure all this with a sigh!!

The civic administration is at all times – Short of Funds – reasons are always many and justified by it. So, they keep raising taxes.

And the citizens, ever the complaining breed- resist the tax increases.

The financial reports are made public once a year, or as deemed fit. They may be on the website, but few see and understand them. Figures are tricky. They can be made to look alarming or comfortable by comparisons.

What is the remedy? That is life! Just get along, and put up with it.

Good Samaritans: - Their breed is far and few between. Yet, they exist and contribute their own might to civic duties that are inspirational.

In Austin, a bus shelter was erected under heavy rain by such two good Samaritans. Hat’s off to them. They showed concern for fellow human beings. Although the shelter was pulled down by Civic officials, their act suggested for its need.

Recently, a portion of a Flyover collapsed in Hyderabad during construction stage, following heavy rains, resulting in the scaffoldings and concrete slabs falling on cars down below crushing them. Persons from the crowd immediately helped extricating the injured from the debris.

Such accidents do happen in a split second. Unfortunately, the citizens are not trained to render immediate assistance. Discussions are held, but soon forgotten. Life again moves on.

Small Groups: To get things done to their advantage with public institutes, functional groups are formed to represent their pleas effectively. They also get the strength to do collective bargaining, and are a force to reckon with during negotiations.

That’s part of democratic governance.

In Austin, the small-business group is to present a petition to the city council to prevent tax incentive deals for retail projects. One group or other always calls for ‘Level Playing fields’.

And so in Hyderabad, similar business groups/associations keep petitioning the civic administration/state government to offer incentives or a rebate in taxes.

In other words, the public demand facilities and whine on increase in taxes. The Administration wants to hike taxes and short on providing facilities.

This see-saw game is akin to Tom & Jerry cartoon show.

As citizens, we must all air our views – politely and firmly till a satisfactory workable solution is implemented.

Prayer

I offer my prayers to those innocent and wonderful souls who lost their lives Six years ago on that unforgettable day- September 11, 2001.

I also pray god to punish those who were responsible for that heinous crime.

Turbulence

Monday, September 10th, 2007.

For most part of August month, my mind was swirling with endless thoughts ranging from domestic to state to nation to the world. The thoughts were often raging with anger to despair to disgust to disillusionment, yet they did not suck me in to a state of depression.

This state of mind would often strike individuals who have an organized mind and are a bit idealistic. I belong to this category. I do not regret a wee bit for having to go through this phase, for I know that I hold some values and principles that are dear to me, which are generally in agreement with the thinking of a civilized society.

As I open the print version of the daily newspaper, there are headlines in each page about conflicts. The media seem to hype the news that evoke anger, and disgust. They seem to transport the readers to an area where crime, violence take the center stage. The political news airing the views of politicians on issues governing the Indian nation, be it a nuclear deal with USA, and be it bomb explosions in Hyderabad, I get a feeling that every one of them is talking with half knowledge of the issues. For they say something only to be denied later, getting away with that irritating remark that they have been misquoted by the press!

I skip these topics, and keep the paper aside. But the disgusting thoughts remain, and I keep on questioning why these things are happening, the way they are happening.

My wife chips in with a remark why I should get irritated, as it is beyond me to set things right since neither I have the authority nor power to have a say. Mine is a voice in the wilderness! The more I get involved mentally the more I harm my own body. There is some truth in this.

The recourse is a reading of The Bhagavad Gita. This has the power to lift your thinking out of morass, gives a mind of serenity, and to view the issues with detachment.

But then one has to come back to reality, and have ones own views. I begin to wonder how in the world some countries believe in violence to achieve their ends. How followers believe the insane despot Bin Laden’s utterances asking the western world to convert to Islam. Even god would get bewildered! And certainly would repent why he created him?

What a period we peace loving citizens are passing through?

At least, I feel relieved when I am making these turbulent thoughts public.

Bridging the Gaps

September 8, 2007

Along with family members, I had the pleasure of crossing the Detroit River from Windsor to Detroit over the Ambassador Bridge, on our way back from Toronto. It was a momentary decision to return over the bridge, as we went through the Windsor Tunnel under the Detroit River from Detroit to Windsor on our way to Niagara. Both ways we all felt the thrill of darting across from a country to another in a few minutes. We did marvel at the ease of travel, for all reasons, facilitated by the Countries to their respective Citizens, despite cultural differences. That visit was about a little less than three years ago.

The Ambassador Bridge was in the news, for a different reason. It was surprising to know that this bridge was NOT owned by either of the countries, or together, but by a Detroit-area businessman Manual “Matty” Moroun. Readers may read the entire story, an interesting one at http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0802/p20s01-lign.html.

Mr.Moroun wants to build another one by its side, and that is creating a problem. The need is there, as all agree due to its importance as that would increase trade enormously. But exact location is being disputed, as there are apprehensions that it would conflict with interests of certain sections of the community. It would anyway get sorted by the people in course of time.

Be that as it may, another bridge was also in the news – the one over Mississippi river in downtown Minneapolis, which collapsed, resulting in tragic loss of many human lives. It has become an eye opener to concerned establishments, and Americans to introspect the need to examine all the bridges and its age old highway infrastructure too, which they consider as an important arm of its economy. Many of its citizens are genuinely concerned about the crumbling of many of its physical foundations, as per the editorial of NYT online.

Now about Bridges: There are countless bridges spread across land and cities in every country. They are symbolic of traditions, of usage, of friendship, of love, of hatred, and on human sentiments they all last long. Sometimes they are even cursed! Stolen too!!

Yes, Stolen. The following report of Reuters on 31^st August 2007 is reproduced:

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian police have detained a 45-year-old municipal worker for stealing a bridge.

The 5-meter span metal bridge disappeared from a river crossing in the Ryazan region, east of Moscow. Police said they tracked it down to the man, who had used his work truck to remove it, and then chopped it up and sold it for scrap. In a statement, Ryazan region police called it "the bulkiest theft of the year."

The mention of the word – Bridge - flashes in the mind as a physical structure that connects two pieces of land that are distance apart. It is the spirit and ingenuity of humanity to think of physically reaching out to the other side, to explore the vastness beyond. It often takes years to construct a bridge, but a moment to collapse.

But the Bridge, we all require now is between War and Peace; between developed and developing countries; between equality and inequality; between ignorance and enlightenment, and bridging all gaps of misunderstanding.

If American politicians think that they want to be a super power, they need to take the initiative to bridge these gaps. Do they have the wherewithal? Sadly, their present posture does not reflect so. In the present day world, lasting peace can be in place ONLY through diplomacy, and continued discussions. All peace loving citizens HATE terrorists and abhor violence, for the simple reason that it brings in misery to the body and mind.

Sometimes the ground realities are bitter and harsh to eschew and fathom as well. But, they have to be faced with the sole aim of bringing in peace. Mahatma Gandhi had always held the view that the Indians were not against British people, but against their regime in India during India’s Independence struggle, which ushered in Democracy. Similarly, many of the educated Indians have experienced the Life in America, and have a great admiration for its people, but certainly have reservations about its Foreign policies.

Many of these gaps can be bridged through dialogues with an open mind of trust and transparency. Lot of things can be achieved globally if only self interests, personal advancement, and personal philosophies are set aside, and instead explore common interests, develop countries, and pursue the philosophy of co-existence.

A very interesting article appeared in The Christian Science Monitor from its August 8, 2007 edition, written by Ben Arnoldy, elaborating why Minneapolis is rated No: 1 in Volunteerism.

Woven throughout the reflections offered over the past week during church services, rallies, and by onlookers on the riverbanks, has been the metaphor of rebuilding "human bridges." "We need bridges between people," says Kathy Hintz, explaining why she came out for a prayer vigil held Sunday night. "We have to trust each other because other people made these cars and these bridges. It's pretty amazing that anything works as well as it does. And if you can't trust each other, you can't have a community."

What a wonderful Concept! Its time we pull up the politicians and force them to start constructing “Human Bridges”.