*Has been edited. Please forgive lapse of judgment.

A test that I'd already flunked in once and fever that makes me actually breathe out fire and congestion and cold are not a good combination. Specially when you go blog hopping and find stuff you like and want to do yourself because you are so sad, that people won't tag you to do it. Oh and did I say breathing caused me so much pain- there isn't even a word to describe it!



Anyhow, here are the rules.

1. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
2. Using only the first page, pick an image.
3. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s mosaic maker.

1. What is your first name?
********* (there you go)It's official.
2. What is your favorite food? Right now?
Apple pie. Doesn't really count as food, does it?
3. What high school did you go to?
BVM, Madras. Center Point School, Nagpur. Carmel Convent, Mumbai. Though I guess BVM counts as high school in every sense.
4. What is your favorite color?
Red. I love colors, full stop. Red holds a prominent place though.
5. Who is your celebrity crush?
George Clooney all the way. Muah. Can't believe I just said that. Oh wait, I have fever. So it's ok.
6. Favorite drink?
Lemonade. Not exotic, but me loves.
7. Dream vacation?
To travel everywhere. Five star plus of course. This ones Brooklyn Bridge though.
8. Favorite dessert?
Gooey chocolate cake please.
9. What do you want to be when you grow up?
Carefree. And uninhibited.
10. What do you love most in life?
Happiness & Laughter.
11. One Word to describe you.
Guarded [I liked this pic better than the one I found for "shy" ]
12. Your Flickr name.
SG. Big surprises there.

I'm tagging everyone who happens to come by. Leave me a comment when you do this pleej.

Happy Monday!

SG.

Credits for the awesome pics- 1. 0000400291.jpg, 2. apple pie, 3. bala vidya mandir, 4. rojo sobre negro (mosaico) / red on black (mosaic), 5. 5-hour-phone-conversation, 6. .relax & have some fresh squeezed legonade., 7. Brooklyn, 8. Day137 - gorgeous gooey chocolate cake slice, 9. The chase, 10. at least it started out with laughter, 11. gaurded with color, 12. sg.wang plaza@malaysia

Everyone seems to be on the lookout for something. That "something", in almost ALL of these cases is almost always happiness. Spell it whichever way. With a 'y' or an 'i'. If it's not happiness that is on the list, then there's things that you think will bring you happiness.

But I don't get why people are searching for it. Being it is possibly the simplest thing ever. Being it, not getting it. If happiness (y or i) were something you could get, it would by default mean, that it were also something you could lose. When you "get" it, you entity-fy it. It's a thing now. No longer a feeling, an abstract noun. Which is not what happiness (y or i) (from now on, every time you read happiness, read the "y or i" with it, until you are told to not do so) is.

Say, it is an entity- that will go on to mean that you get it from some place or some person and you lose it to some person or at some place. Two people/ things participate in this relationship, thus establishing a dependency. This dualism, is in my opinion, why there's very few people who ARE actually happy.

I'm no saint. I haven't given up materialistic things. I still derive joy from small things. But this fleeting feeling of pleasure or pain is not what I refer to as happiness. Happiness is a sense of being, to me. It is something that I am. It isn't something that I'm looking for from another person. It isn't something that depends on whether it rains today or not. Or on whether or not I receive an unexpected call. It is something that runs in my blood. So much so that, it makes me feel lighter. A bigger person. At peace. Free of entrapment.

I'm probably making little sense, as usual. But I'll take an example.

Most people of my generation, have already been through a multitude of love- relationships by the time they get to my age. I've been through one. It lasted a couple of months only for a varied number of reasons. Point was, for the first time in my life I was head over heals in love- butterflies-in-the-stomach, when-you're-holding-me-you-drown-out-the-crowd, smile-stuck-on-face-love.. When it came to an end, for a lot of time, there was no emotion. Which gave way to a total loss of self. Which in turn faded into this gut wrenching pain that just refused to go away.

What I kept questioning was how come I was suffering so much when "being in love" is supposed to be one of the best things people ever experience. How come I'd given up smiling, let alone living. Introspection lead to the realization that for some reason I had been denying the fact that I was/ had been in love. I'd been trying to convince myself that it had just been something I'd had to go through. Blocking thoughts. That the guy in concern, was just somebody. I'd get over him. It.

Question was/is, how do you get over something you won't even acknowledge? Enlightenment didn't come to me under no tree. But come it did. I was in love. Where was I going denying it? Loving someone did not entail being loved in return. Loving someone did not entail well, anything. Loving someone, was just, loving someone. Being in love.

When it had to go, it would go. If it wasn't meant to go, then it wouldn't. With him, I've known what are the best days of my life, so far. I've actually gotten "love letters". I've smiled and still do at the barest thought of this person. I've gotten up with the biggest of smiles on my face for weeks. I've felt the tingle, the butterflies. I felt gorgeous every time he called me that. It's been three years, and I still feel the same when I think of him.

It's all still there. So deep rooted, that there IS no point trying to deny it. When I give myself up to these pleasures, these feelings, I am free. I am no longer bound with the need to reject, get over, cry or worry. I am no longer bound. I just am.

Being in love is just who I am now. It's not something I can surgically remove. It's not a thing. It's not an entity. It's just me.

I understand that maybe this wasn't "it". He wasn't "the one". I understand that there will be better times. But until then, why deny myself? Why try to go against what I'm feeling? Why question? Why judge. Why not "just be"? This isn't an exam I have to work for!!

Which brings me to the point of putting you through these excruciating details- just like love, happiness just is. You are happiness. However, you won't realize it, feel it, experience it until you've shaken off the chains that bind you. The conditions you've set. The dualism you bring in only strengthens the mental prison.

Happiness in knowledge. It's knowing yourself. Like when you fall in love- the other person doesn't complete you in the way you think he or she does. You weren't "half" before they came along. You just didn't know alot about the person you are. Being with this person lets you get in touch with you. Be more of you. THAT is the completeness you feel.

Happiness is when you stop looking for "it" in things or people. It's something that you carry in yourself. A state of being you will achieve, only when you know yourself. A place in which things happen because they happen. Nothing you can do or could have done can change things. The outcome of an event has no bearing on you. It's a state of innocence that is free of the "I".

It's a sense of celebration that comes from the freedom of being you!

Simple.

Wondering if he is the man for you or not? If you’re a man or a woman? If your in love or not? Are you questioning yourself? Want to understand yourself better?

Well, not anymore. Here's a list of questions that have been carefully framed the study the human psyche better.

Instructions: Get a paper and pencil. Switch off cell phones. No chewing gum. And no calculators allowed. There are no correct answers!!

1) A man can expect to reach out into the refrigerator for milk when…

a. The cat is hungry.
b. It’s starting to get sour? Just the way you like it.
c. The toast is too dry.
d. ESP.

2) Where do you read the newspaper?

a. In bed.
b. In the toilet. Like da.
c. On red signals while driving.
d. Breakfast table.

3) Which side of the bed do you take?

a. The one that faces Mecca.
b. The “other” side.
c. The one that speaks to me.
d. North east in the day time and south west at night.

4) What does the word relationship represent to you?

a. Hot and sexy dates. Every night. Till you stay for breakfast one day. And then you move on.
b. Love, respect and admiration for the other person. Something that is based on trust and faith. c. A symbiotic relationship. Full freedom. Mutual satisfaction.
d. Huh?

5) You’re in the park, sitting on the bench… having just finished your walk, when you see a kid fall down and start howling. What do you do?

a. Dote on him with love and kisses and affection until he forgets how to deal with injuries.
b. Pick him up and make him stand on his feet, and give him a whack for being such a sissy.
c. Find the kids parents and ask to represent them after suggesting they sue the park authorities.
d. Increase the volume of your i-pod.

6) What would you name your German shepherd?

a. Noodle.
b. King Kong.
c. Doggie-po.
d. Bananahammock.


7) Your fairy tale would take place in -

a. In the land I rule. There'd be no hunger and starvation and only good people. (you get the idea)
b. Paris!
c. Take the last left on the street I live on, go straight down till you reach the barbers shop, take the right opposite it and the immediate left. Go straight down till you reach a dead end. You see that dark corner? That's where my dog does his business every day.
d. An enchanted land.

8) What does the line “candle in the wind” mean to you?

a. Someone is trying to light a candle in the wind.
b. It represents a person s vulnerability. The wind represents the relationship the person is in.
c. There’s a candle in the wind.
d. I think the person was a genius. It refers to the science experiment which was started by Hargobind Khorana. The aim of this exercise was to find out if each person in the country would light a candle on the day of the World Cup, the chances of India winning are way higher than if they just sit in front of the television and watch. The follow up of this experiment is what we see today as the “Jup for the Cup.”

9) Candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.

a. *embarrassed look* Aww shucks.
b. Totally.
c. Shameful. I decline this question.
d. No comments.

10) Why does a toast always fall buttered side down?

a. It’s been proven. I have statistics. A group of scientists, buttered different kinds and sizes of toast and let them fall from various heights. Finding – it never lands on it’s edge.
b. Serves you right for buttering both sides.
c. Butter? All those calories? Have you looked at yourself lately!!
d. Fate. Life. Karma. Kismet.

11) Which place would you like to visit?

a. Donkey s fair.
b. Timbuktu.
c. El Colorado.
d. St. Kittis and Nevis.

12) What do you do after making love?

a. Bathe, like da.
b. Get on the phone!!
c. Snore.
d. Blow raspberry s on his/her tummy. Cuddle up and talk.

13) The “Last Supper” refers to:

a. Before Bhagat Singh was to be hung to death, he was given a feast. All the inmates of the jail, saved their food and drinks. This is what we call the last supper.

b. It’s that movie which stars Hugh Grant and that bitch of a woman. Hugh is just so adorable in it though! You must see it.

c. The dinner Joseph and Mary threw as a welcoming party in Bethlehem for the Three Wise Men without a caterer!!

d. Dinner?

14) What is your favorite color?

a. #CC1000
b. #FFF109
c. #C10C00
d. #F90C20

15) What do you do when you’ve been driving around for hours and get lost in a strange city?

a. Stop and ask for directions.
b. Take actual readings of your location with respect to longitude and latitude based on the stars. c. Keep insisting that your fine, and on the right track.
d. Enjoy the city you are in!!

16) “Down Stay” is most commonly used in reference to –

a. Something to do with football?
b. Dogs. It’s a command to keep dogs stationary for long periods of time.
c. Hitler stood in the balcony of the tallest tower in Germany and looked upon his people, and uttered these words for the first time. They later came to be included in the country s national anthem.
d. Francoise Martin was working in the laboratory one morning. In fact, this was the day he was to discover sapionism, and re write the history of mankind. The combination he had was bubbling furiously and threatened to flow out of the burette. Martin uttered these words with a huff and puff as a final measure. And it worked!!

17)When is it the best time to throw away your underwear?

a. Elastic gets loose.
b. Throw? But why!!
c. Every two weeks and ten days.
d. *slap*

18) How many friends do you have on Orkut?

a. 500
b. 104
c. One, ha.
d. None. Whatever.

19) You have two friends A and B. Suddenly, A likes B and after a while B likes A back. When A is upset, he calls you up and asks for advice, but your call keeps getting interrupted because your friend B is on the other line. So you have to alternate between them, trying to solve things. The situation really starts to get on your nerves after a point of time. What do you do?

a. Introduce friend A to friend C and friend B to friend D.
b. Change your phone number.
c. Put them on conference, without them knowing and ensaai.
d. Kill both of them.

20) Your sweetie is-

a. My better half.
b. My better half.
c. My ball and chain.
d. He's half.

Quickly, totally up all those A's, B's, C's and D's.

More A’s – Hmmm. Interesting. The Sahara really was not always a desert. Multiply the number of b's you have with 103, the two most significant numbers indicate your luckiest day of every month. The person in your life is very lucky for you. If you think you want the person to stay in your life forever, take a picture of the Last Supper and super impose it with a picture of the Three Wise Men. Now, host a dinner party, without caterer s and give each person who comes, this superimposed photo as a give away. Also, stick to unflavored condoms and do not buy yourself or your dearest a dog. Keep away from them!

More B’s- Aha. So you're the more-b's type, eh? Let's see... Every few days you might feel like your surrounded by negative vibes, bad air and all that- cut down your potato in take. Also, mow your neighbor s lawn twice a week, kiss their (or any) dog, three times a day for the next one month and get your head shaved in a random style. If the farts still don't stop, go to a doc damnit. To improve your love life, paint your toe nails neon green if your a girl, and if you're a guy do the same and otherwise also, do the same. You might not want to venture into anything that is flavored. In fact, glow in the darks are the best option!

More C's- Stay away from dogs. They hate you. They even have a community on Orkut, beware of them. If you don't really want to live with this for the rest of your life, put a pot on the fire and add the following-

Three strands of genital hair.
3.5/4 cup of Heinz Tomato Ketchup.
2.115/6 cup of your best wine.
A fist full of the apogaiali, picked by you at the foot of the Himalayas.
Your neighbor s underwear- One piece.

Stir till broth comes to a boil. Now take two spoons of this and drink it.

The dogs will love you! You don't seem to have a problem with your love life. Just don't forget, that the minute you start doing in this real world, dropping your clothes off the minute you see a girl is really a turn-on. However, she'll only do everything you say if you have more than 100,000 scraps and at least 554.3 friends on Orkut.

D's, like da- D's are good. Only they symbolise you have a tendency of putting on weight very easily. To avoid this eat a lettuce leaf and the peel of an apple for lunch, three days a week. Streak your hair with the colors of the rainbow and don't wash them for at least a month at a stretch. This will help make your personality more colorful. If you're a guy, start wearing suspenders, they help in the control your lacking on yourself. If you're a female, yoga and meditation are good options. And to ensure that you find the love of your life, don't participate in any type of sexual activity on Mondays and Fridays between 9:01 PM to 10:53 PM. If you can do it and get yourself into a herbal bath by 10:57 PM, your increasing your chances by more than 50%.

Glad to be of help,

All my love.

The sun was setting. Finally. Soon it would be dark all around. Safe. Familiar. The only time in the day the noises seemed to almost cease, were at this time. For the barest of minutes. But they did. When the sky was changing colors from glaringly bright to something that enveloped you gladly. Something that settled around you, surrounded you. So much so that, it almost contained you. And you it.

She could hear the breeze. The birds going back to their nests. The traffic. She could hear all of it. But they’d be back again. The peace lasted for only a while. The voices would be back to torment soon.

Really? What makes you think your good? You think they really like you? Hahahahaha, your so naïve.

Think. The horn honking below on the street. The ice cream vendors bell. The aeroplane flying above. What else, what else? Think of something quick. Keep them away. Think of something good, anything…

Have you looked at yourself? I never liked you for your looks. No chance.

Something. Please, oh please. Not already. Anything. Anythi…

What bullshit. Remember that thing you were going to start this summer? That social service thing? What happened to that? I was supposed to help you, na?

It was back. His voice. She’d done the best she could by him. Everything she could. But the words he’d said were back. He'd said sorry later on. She’d listened. Just shut up and listened. From begining to end. To every word. Or so it seemed. They seemed to be etched to memory. The scorn, the anger… etched to the heart.

You know what she is? She is perfect. She’s beautiful, she respects me and she is the best. The only reason I’m talking to you, is because she wants me to.

No no no. Make them stop. Please… Not already. Think. Think harder. Sheep. Stars. Something. Coffee. Mom. Dad.… There were tears sliding down her cheeks by now.

You think your popular? That that guy really liked you? Are you nuts?

It was over. The silence. The peace. There was no point fighting. Nothing would come of pleading. There wasn’t anyone to listen her, was there?

You’re a terrible person. You’re a loser. I felt sorry for you. That’s why I stayed.

She looked up, as if expecting an answer… There were stars sprinkled across the sky now… a sight that would make even the most defeated person feel a slight tinge of what she’d always thought could only be called magic.

It only lasted for a moment. It was an illusion. ‘Didn’t even last long enough to lull a person into false security. Something was trying to squeezing her insides… the pain was unbearable.

She felt a shiver pass through her. It made her shake even harder.

God save people from best friend s like you.

She let it.

Ugh.

What is it with people and christmas. And even those people who have nothing whatsoever to do with the holiday?!?! Everyone goes into hyper mode, starts over analyzing, and looking at their lives with a magnifying glass. And what do you find?

You're *** many years old, alone, bills are lying about waiting to be paid and your best friend ran off with your boy friend. If not true to the hilt, close enough.

Christmas gets out of the way, and it's Valentine s day and it starts all over again... And before you know it, it's christmas again!

So, I'm not at my best, this season. *Flips hair off face in defiant gesture* So, what? No reason why I can't be a grumpy grizzly bear, is there? After all, you don't give me a reason every time you get into that state.

*Takes a calming breath*

It isn't the fact that I'm *** many years old, alone and have bills lying about waiting to be paid and my best friend ran off with my boy friend, that's making me want to stranggle someone. It's the nonsensical frenzy that people drive them selves into, come this time of the year. These times, if you may. People get all depressed and cranky and do some real crazy stuff, just 'cuz they're *** many years old, alone, have bills to pay and their best friend ran off with their boy friend. Just because. Pah.

For those of you are lucky and unlucky enough to be single or coupled(?), whichever way you want to take it, and those of you who always thought this was absolutely crazy here's me taking a bite of the humble pie, and for those of you who like me are just coming to see the light - here's some pointers and laughs, respectively.

1) You might want to not book a candlelight dinner at the hotel that's offering, as it's entertainment for the night - women bartenderes and waitresses. [as opposed to men waitresses, but of course.]

2) There's charm in red roses, chocolates and teddy bears allright - there's irratation and anger and a definite temper tantrum, in red roses, chocolates and teddy bears that your secretary ordered and you came home and worked yourself into a frenzy over until you could read the name on the cards straight and found it to sound familiar.

3) If you have a problem and want help - call the cupid helpline/ hotline - Radisson s contribution to this day and what it brings with it. And I hung on to the hope that at least the five star s won't drop their standards.

4) Taj has decided to call it's special night - the hickey night. Innovative? Impressive? Just lovvrey.

Boy/Girl: I'm taking you somewhere special tonight, sweetheart?

*bats eyelashes*

Girl/Boy: Really? Where?

Boy/Girl: Where going to The veranddah. It's going to be hickey night.

*Slap resounds*

Or maybe it's just me and my cynicism talking. You two love birds carry on.

5) Don't wear red, white, black, blue, violet, green, orange, pink or yellow colored clothes while going to college on the -day. Unless, of course, your in love and want the world to know about it. Personally, I take out my gunny bags this time of the year - even some real fadded stuff will do - no one can figure what color it is then!! *blub lights* - use Rin Advanced on some stuff you own - and then everyone will exclaim yeh naya raang kaunsa hai? Won't be troubled by what message your sending out, and... AND you get publicity!!

6) Before gifting someone with one of those things you bought at the " Buy this for your valentine, and get this1 free!! ", take off the sticker that says " But this for your valentine, and get this1 free!! " - most especially if it offers you a ticket for one to the Bahamas or a night of unlimited access to beer and the ladies of a club or a free 1 year subscription of the Playboy.

7) While on what to gift and what not to - A VLCC membership is not a good idea, no matter what your best friend told you. Also, you might want to keep this best friend away from your girl friend.

Oh get over yourselves. Stop being such big snobs. It really isn't about any of the stuff the other grumpy grizzly single people say - it's really about whats in your heart. If you do this every other day anyway, too good !! Here's another one. If you don't do this every other day, too good!! Here's your chance - bonus? Is that you have to do it only once!!

Now shhooo... Go buy someone a huge bunch of roses or candy - probiotic ice cream may be a good option too... okie okie, me will stop with the making fun. Heres hoping -

- Each of you is well loved, not only on this day, but through the year.

- Each of you finds it in yourself to thank and appreciate the people/person you love most, and make the day special enough so that it lasts till next year.

- Make plans with care. *wink*

- And most importantly, be safe!!

Not all of us are members of the Abstinence CLub in college. In fact, very few of us had the good fortune to even go to a college like the Chellamal College that HAS such a club.

Sigh. *suppresses evil grin*

Happy valentine's day!!

All my love,
SG.

I've thought of a million ways of starting a post, over the last couple of days. I've tried funny, i've tried ha-ha funny, ha-funny, boo - scary, bah -scary?, crazy, all of that!! You name it... but nothing seemed to click. Until this.

No clue what this post would come under, but whatever it is, thank the sweet lord for it. I've always wanted to play agony aunt. And here's my first formal chance!!

Q. I found white hair in my bathroom sink this morning. I don't think they are mine, so they've got to be my husband s. What should I do?!!

Well, take them out of the sink for one, or you'll have one clogged drain. You may also take them out, after a while - in case you wanted to play with them, and swirl them around. To make things more interesting, comb your hair for a few strands of black hair and throw them in the sink too. Now you can swirl around black and white hair. But don't forget - take them out, after your done. There'll be more hair my friend, don't worry.

Q. What do you think I should wear to welcome my husband home? He's coming back after ten days. And we're kinda newly weds.

Nothing?

Q. I think my husband is seeing someone else. He comes home with a smile on his face, flowers or just a plain hug most of the time these days and we almost always make love more than twice each night. What should I do?

Get over yourself woman! If he comes home nasty, read to fight, and sleep in the guest room he doesn't love you. Other wise he's seeing someone else? Enjoy it while it lasts.

And if you really want to check, even though you'll hate yourself for it later, try checking his mail or his phone. Sigh, women!


Q. I've been lusting after my teacher for the last two months. I can't sit through her lectures without getting a hard -on, just looking at her. In my defence, she wears pretty bold stuff, and she is young! The thing is, I've made excuses to meet her after hours, in her room - notes, punishment, the likes. And she's kinda come onto me too. Actually, she HAS come on to me. I know it. Do you think if I should go for it?

Let's see... Go for it on her table? Your grading will probably be based on something else. You don't sound like an amateur, so, if you think your little major can take on the enemy...

Q. I... er.. lyk.. have .. ummm.. this, ya know, lyke... ummm problem, lyk ya know? Erm... lyk.. What ummm lyke should I lyk do?

Now here's a tough one. Try using, english words more often. For assistance, try the dictionary. Or even the newspaper. Try using each word you find, and you should be on your way!

Q. I love my boy friend. I really do. We're perfect for each other. It's just that... he broke my nail the other day!!! I mean, really really broke it. Now I have proper grown nails on nine fingers. Oh god what should I do? Help!!

Get out! He did that?!! This guy has got to go. I mean, he broke your nail! Can't take stuff like that sitting down. Stiffen up that upper lip! If you just keep quite, he'll break a toe nail next. Then what'll you do?

Q. I've sending this female so many more friend requests. I want to make friendship with her. She is keeps me up at night. She talks dirty talk and I love it. But she refuses to adding me. What should I do?

Aah. Orkut. For all you know, she's a big hairy guy. Get out of the virtual world, and find someone who actually exists.

Q. I saw this old man on a bike the other day. He was wearing a lungi. And nothing, really nothing underneath. And.. umm.. I don't think I like what I saw. Does this mean, I'm a lesbian?

Awww sweetheart! That's a terrible thing to happen. Always makes you feel sick. No I don't think that means your a lesbian, I think the man was just old. And old. Don't condemn the whole breed!!


Q. This guy in college, is soooo cute! But he doesn't know I exist! I've tried everything from parading past him to laughing real loud when he's around. But in vain. What should I do?

Maybe THAT'S why he's glad not knowing you. Jezus, where's your attitude, woman? Get on the high horse, ignore him, and definately do NOT parade around or do that shrill laugh. And he'll come and talk to you. Guys can't take being ignored.

Q. I just lost my job. I never really liked it, and I'm glad I can finally look into and decide what I really want to do. Then why am I feeling restless? Not happy?

Don't worry about it. You'll be fine once you find something to do with your time. I understand though... it can't be fun stealing pens from your own house, can it?

Q. I feel guilty about having gotten together with my boy friend after listening to a friend of mine, who gave me 10 ways to get a guy. What should I do?

Oh stop with the mind games, will ya? How about just telling the guy about it, and seeing how he reacts? You can go on from there. Take a deep breath, and charge, horns first.

Q. I think my girl friend's faking it. She makes all the right noises and stuff... but, it's just something she said the other day, that made me think. How do I find out?

There's no way you can. *evil grin*


Yours forever sthupitly.
If you have any questions or need advice, write in to sthupit girl!!

I always used to wonder what people meant when they said that something/ someone had the power to make them smile with tears in their eyes. Feel happy, yet sad at the same time.

I do know now.

Bleddy memories. A song, a word, a book, an act, a character in a book, a dream, anything... 'Makes you find yourself thinking, recollecting and smiling to yourself about something that happened so long ago. So very very long ago. Seventy years ago. Smiling at the person you were then... Smiling at the feeling that you feel zing through you. Just like it did, back then.

And then you find a damn tear thats found it's way out, no matter how hard you tried to stick to the good part of the memory. For what had been. What could have been. And what never will be, ever again.

For just a fraction there, you feel something squeeze your insides. A slight pain that flits across.

And just like that. It's all gone. And all that your left with, is empty space.

It's official. I make a fool out of myself at least once each day. The other day, I called Tia Maria a who, and not a what. You knew it was a desert? Well, did you?

I usually don't mind it. I go a step forward and see to it, that it's done at least once every day. Not in that ( the above mentioned) way, though, but yeah, you get the point.

It usually is that way. When people pretend to know more than they really do, to save their "face" in public, it almost always backfires. It took a while for that to sink in, oh boy, did it.But it did, and now if I don't know what what is, I usually admit it.

I'll give you an example... When you have a or few holes in your socks, and they make you take off your shoes in school, for whatever reasons. It's hard to "hide" the holes, so what to do but wait to get embarassed? Tell them about it yourself. Them being your friends, and it being the hole(s). Say it aloud, with a you know... I just lovvre these socks I'm wearing so much, I hate to throw them away, 'cuz they're so soft. And that's all it'll take. You'll probably save a few more people from getting embarassed too.

People hardly ever believe you, when you say the truth. It's funny, sometimes. Specially around a person like me, whose every sentence is sarcastic and can almost always be intepreted in two ways. So, when I'm telling a person that the reason I want to hang up is 'cuz I don't want to talk to them , I'm being extremely funny. The berry bunny types. Lil do they know. (If your reading this, you know who you are, I WAS kidding, or was I ? )

When I'm saying I really do still own the soft toy I did at 10 years of age, or that I still do watch cartoons, or that on holidays I bathe only sometime in the evening, or that I used to write my name and *****'s name and draw hearts around it (Sis, if you even as much as squeak at that, you'll be the one mortified on Orkut. I've kept quite so far, just so that people know whose younger, Ahem) or that when I dig my nose I like to examine what I've found... people think your humoring them. About the later, I am, in case you didn't figure that out. I really am. I mean I guess I used to do it, back then in 2nd standard... when everyone does it, some even ate it, remember? I don't anymore. The figuring, not the eating. I never did eat, nor am I in the future, jezus! I really don't.

It takes a lot to know when I'm kidding and when I'm not. And I'm kinda proud of it, you know the whole mysterious aura thing.

Yours forever sthupitly.

P.S: It tastes kinda salty, na?

This thing I wanted to write about... It's kinda like a theory. I'd formulated it, a while back. I've tried telling, talking about it.. But it just felt stupid. Un formulated, at times. Not well defined, at others. Shantaram, which I've been begging all of you to read, finally, did the deed for me.

I was shocked and amazed to find a piece of my thoughts, figments of my imagination, in words on pages of paper that I'd already started loving. What amazed me even more was realising that my thinking was similar to just another regular guy trying to make money buy selling made up philosophy. Not. Because it is similar to a guy, who is just telling his tale to the world. And it's not even his... if you want the specifics it's a theory, one of the Mafia dons in Mumbai believed in. A patron of sciences and philosophy. Anyway, that's for you to find out when you read the book. Which you should.

I've decided to put this into words. Even though I don't know if I should be scared, happy or plain and simple book myself a room in the Agra Mental Hospital. Because, this is something Shantaram was told, by a man who had seen the world... who'd been taught by some of the best. It's something he advised Shantaram to ask every person who pronounced himself learned and great. Some sort of a test. And to think that the right answer lay in what I thought, already, at this age... kinda freaked me out.

It's nothing complicated. Real simple in fact. It was chemistry that actually got me thinking... since you all know I detest the subject because I can't see all this stuff they talk about happening in front of me. Anyway, the thought process started in one of those boring classes.

It is an accepted theory that a big bang, literally, led to the formation of the universe. It started of in the simplest of ways... and has been moving forward ever since. These simple things have been combining with each other in various ways to form less simple, more complicated things. And that's been the way ever since the Big Bang. Moving towards more and more complexity.

Each particle that formed as a result of the big bang, had certain characteristics to it. These characteristics show when they combine with certain other particles which have their own set of characteristics. Depending on how many, what kind and how they combined, a set of characteristics was revealed and the rest didn't show up, until when it was time for them to show up.

From single celled species came multicellular and so on. The universe moved on until it reached what it is today, in all it's glory. Humans, animals, the birds and the flowers. The stars and the galaxies. And it still moves on.

Towards the ultimate complexity. That some wish to call God. It is what the whole universe it moving towards. Other "things" and parts of the universe, like us, are also moving towards. And everything that enhances, helps and aids in this movement towards the ultimate complexity is good, while everything that hinders the process is evil. The easiest way to figure out if what your doing is right or wrong, is to ask yourself: what would happen if everybody did it? And me is not talking about the stupid stuff. I'm being serious here.

Say, take fighting. If everyone were to start doing it, there'd be chaos at first, and then death and dying. Which hinders our movement towards this infinite complexity. Because then we have to start over again... But the cycle will start.. until we reach there.

This gives us a pretty good idea about if we are right or wrong. What's more important is to know why it's that way.

That's that. My thoughts and words entwined with Gregorys. There might be a few loop holes. But, this is by far the most convincing thing I've read. Oh and how does chem come here? The second law of thermodynamics says that every system tries to reach a form with maximum chaos, for that is where it is most stable. When I got thinking about this in terms of life, it somehow led to the theory that I've just laid down for you. And by the by, there is a law, that talks of this movement to the ultimate complexity. I, of course, didn't know of it, until I read about it in the book.

Anyway, happy thinking this over. Let me know what you think. Thankus for bearing with me, till the end!! lol... lotsaluv and hugs,

Yours forever sthupitly.

"These people are abnormal and they need to be helped," was the response of a police comissioner when asked if homosexuality should be made illegal.

Lemme go in order... so just follow me, and then tell me what you have to say.

A gay activist cited an example of how the law can be and is twisted and turned when and as pleased. Under article 377 ( For you lawyers in the making, if it's not 377, then whichever article it is. I really dnt care what number you want to call it.) it is stated that forced sex with a man, a woman and an animal is an offence. So, a man who had sex with his chicken (way to go!!) wasn't prosecuted because a fowl is not an animal(someone please explain the difference to me??)

This very article, is of importance ( big surprise there) because it is under this article that child abusers are prosecuted. Rape comes under this article.

At this point, I'd also like to point out that policemen all around the country use this very "law" to harass people who might seem to be gay/lesbians. Homosexuals HAVE had to spend 6 months in jail on this very basis.

Some people want this law to be ammended. So that there is a seperate law that deals with abuse and rape and another that deals with homosexuality...

Now, I came across some very interesting statements made by some very famous people (I will not mention names) who have responded to the "Should homosexuality be legalised?" question. Politically correct statements of course. Here's a gist of them...

"It is an abnormality. Marraige between a man and a man or a woman and a woman is un-natural. By legalising this un-natural bond we are propogating this abnormality. But, let me make one thing clear, I agree that we should learn to accept such people. I have nothing against them. But it is abnormal."

"Marraige, as defined by the church, refers to a family. And a family primirarily consists of a man and a woman. Any other bond, like that of a man and a man or a woman and a woman, is not recognised as a marraige by the Church. And hence, the phrase, gay marraige is of no significance." (Father...God bless you.. NOT!!)

"We should help such people. We should help treat this abnormality. It is a problem and needs to be treated."

A gay person, in response to this offer of treatment and sympathy, had this to say : I can hear, walk, talk and see. All my five senses work. What is this problem you are talking about? What is this problem you want to treat? (Answer that smartypants..ha!)

Politically correct, my little toe. I was ashamed and disgusted on hearing people voice such veiws. Fact of the matter is that you think these people are abnormal. That they carry a disease or something. That they have a problem that needs to be treated so that it doesn't, what was that word that wise guy used? aah.. so that is doesn't propogate.

A person doesn't chose to be homosexual. It is something genetic, that comes from within. Wake up mister! These people are every bit as human as you and I. Oh I'm sorry, as human as me. Not you.

Two very interesting points come to mind:

1. Sex between animals of the same sex is not un common. It has been seen and documented. So, there goes your "un natural" theory out of the window.

2. There should be a law against policemen barging into other peoples houses to check on who they are sleeping with!!

Every person is an image of God. Each person is perfect. Who the hell are you/we/me to discriminate and point fingers are some people and saying that they are wrong??

It makes these people question themselves. Get into drugs. Try to live a normal life by marrying the other sex. And bringing AIDS home. Along with misery.

The question when reframed, "Sir, suppose the two were seperated, as is being suggested. Do you support a law legalising gay marraiges?"

"No." And they repeated the same bullshit as mentioned above.

NOW, you know what I think. I think that it was better when we were living in the forests. People back then had SENSE. Oh! what's the best part? They knew how to be human. Well, as human as an ape/chimp can be. But seriously, I'd rather be a chimp than a person who thinks the way these above mentioned people think. In short, I think everyone is an individual and is defined by some characteristics. Each person has his/her own personality, mind and feelings. No one, and I mean no one, has the right to stop a person on the road and say, "You're a guy. You have no right to have sex with another guy. It's wrong. There's something wrong with you. Lemme take you to a doc, and we can sort this out."

It might come as a shock to some people, but two people in a relationship, don't spend all their time having SEX. Big shocker there, huh?? People in love, do other stuff than making love all, the sexual way, all the time. And it is about LOVE. Not SEX all the time. They live their lives together, work, play, and whatever normal people do, too. Why do you want to define them as different form different? Each person is different. But you want to call these people different from all the other differents, that you and me are?? (good analogy, huh? Really brainy.. but u get the pt!!)

Now.. before you get totally lost..tell me what you think..untill then, im gnna go do some chemistry.. exam tomorrow! Damn you'd think you'd get rid of such things once you get into college... But take my word.. it just keeps getting worse!!

Oh!! BACK TO THE POST..!! Concentrate.. ;)

Have a lovely day..love ya guys!

i don't know what's wrong with me. Every time i want to wish for something, i stop. And i think, "is it worth it? do you reallly need this to be? Does this really matter when there are people who are wishing for one meal a day? Clothes to wear? when there are people wishing that come the rainy season, they have a roof above their heads..."

do i really need this wish to come true?
yes

is it more important than what the others are wishing for?
no

Then why do i want God to waste his time pertaining to my wishes and needs when there are people in a worse situation than mine?

do i want him to waste time?
no

do i want my wish to come true?
yes

do i want him to be answering my wish, when he could have saved a child's life, by listening to his ma's wish?
no

so what do i wish for..??
"listen mister... you up there..yeah you! You've got one weird sense of humor! and dnt smile that smile.. i dnt appreciate being made to think that what i want to wish for is not worthy, when there are more selfish people on this planet.. anyway, you always do this to me.. what a sucker i am. So, like you know, im changing my wish...i don't want anything. Just keep all my family and loved one safe. i'll be ok without what i wanted to wish for. a lil sad, upset, whatever... but what's a lil sadness when compared to a life? You just take care of the important stuff... keep everyone i love safe.. and i'll take care of all this small small stuff."

Am I going crazy???

"To be successful, live life according to a plan".. "to feel satisfied live life according to a plan"...

I cannot believe, people actually believe in all this, and actually follow such stuff. Why do I think this way? lemme see...

Ok, take the Backstreet Boys. When I was 10-11 years old, I used to love their music. They were the most popular band at one time... Say, at that time suppose I had made a plan to listen to their music everyday till I was 20 years old... If I had done such a thing.. then there were two situations that were possible : If I was a person who thought a plan was planned to be followed, then, even today I'd be listening to "Backstreet Boys" and whatever. On the other hand, if I was to be a person who believed that plans were just planned for the sake of it.. then I wouldn't be here writing this, and you wouldn't be here reading this.

Now, if I was to be the person who believed a plan is planned to be followed there are two situations that can arise: Either I'm the only thing on earth that doesn't evolve or I can evolve and change everyday, every minute, the way people are meant to change. Again 2 situations evolve:

If I were to be the first person, then no problem-o, I'll be happy and satisfied till the day I die listening to "Backstreet's back... allright", let alone till 20 only. On the other hand, if I were to be a human being, then with every day, my taste in music would change. And say, about an year later, if I liked Westlife better, I'd still have to listen to Backstreet Boys, because that was the plan.

This would lead to two things : Either I could show a little smartness and change the plan, or I could be dumb and follow it to the last letter. From here, there are again 2 situations that could arise: If I was to follow the first course of action, I'll be happy singing Westlife songs when I wanted to sing Westlife songs... but then, that would mean I was not following the plan. And if I were to stick to the plan and keep singing Backstreet's Back till I were to turn 20, I'd be unhappy and bored.

This could lead to two things: If according to the larger plan(the plan whose planner is God) I was to die when I was 13, I'd die listening to Backstreet and not Westlife.. hence, I'd die unhappy. On the other hand, if I followed the first course of action, I'd die happy...

If you find yourself in the second situation, then I'm contradicting my assumption that I think plans are planned to be followed, which proves that I believe plans are palnned to not be followed. But then again, it means that I shouldn't be writing this at all and you wouldn't be getting ready to pull your hair..... So, this is all a load of crap.

Plans are meant to be followed. But when it comes to life, no amount of planning can make you happy or satisfied. It's like a person making a speech. Those who plan each statement and each paragraph can never be good speakers. A speaker has to gauge the audience reaction and accordingly make his next statement effective enough to hold them captive. If the speaker were to just go on and on and on without realising that his audience was either snoring or yawning, his purpose wouldn' t be served.

It's the same way with you and your life. You change everyday, and so do I. So, we have to keep changing our way of doing things, the things that we are doing itself, according to the way our thinking changes.

Don't waste your life in planning what you want to do. A rough sketch showing you what you want to achieve that day, is all you need to help make you happy. Because a rough sketch can be edited while a plan plan, cannot.

Disclaimer: The author has assumed that she is a human being with a mind. So, please people, do not think your statements stating otherwise hold no value.

...I've been thinking for a while... the suicide rate, the "parent-pressure" and the following of "standard stuff" without finding the courage to think out of the block.

"Why?" I asked myself.

Firstly, there's a need to accept that white hair has as little to do with age, as wisdom has to do with the years you've lived.

Secondly, he have to stop telling ourselves, as teenagers, that while times are changing, WE are changing but are parents are not changing. This is a misconception, to a large extent. They are evolving too.... not at the same rate as we are, but they are. It's tougher on them because, change to them means giving up what they've been made to believe since they were born. It's not easy for anyone to accept that they're wrong. Especially when they're being told as much, by a someone who is about a two decades or so younger than them.

Thirdly, there's a need for parents to understand that there's a difference between teaching a child HOW TO THINK and WHAT TO THINK. When you are telling me what to think, you are leaving no scope for me to experience and explore. When you're telling me how to think.., you're just laying down the facts, and leaving the decision to me. IF I make the wrong choice, you should be there to help me face it. But, when you're telling me what to do, there is no chance of me making a mistake, or learning how to face the consequences of my decisions.

Parents, elders as a whole... Justify these actions of theirs with a "I've seen more of the world than you. I know better." If you're telling me WHAT TO DO, how can I see the world? How can I EXPERIENCE?

I'm not saying that at 17 I'm capable of always making the right choices... I'm saying that at 40, YOU ARE NOT CAPABLE OF ALWAYS MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES...

Lay down the facts. Tell me what your opinion is. Tell me how and what you've seen happen in a situation as this. And then let me decide how and what I want to do.

How, when whatever I've done is what you've TOLD me to do, do you expect me to face this world? There are decisions to be made at every step in life. Tomorrow, when I have to make a decision, I'm not going to have you to fall back on. I have to make it. For which I need courage to believe that... 'Hey! This is what I think should be done. If I'm wrong, we'll change tracks.... If I'm right, then well done to me.'

I can't be worried that I MAY BE WRONG and then the world MAY end.

It'd been one helluva day. Everything that could have gone wrong did and everything that couldn't have gone wrong also went wrong.

On a day like this, we were driving down the roads of Chennai for dinner. Neither the clouds nor the pleasant breeze that brought along with it the smell of rainfall, helped change my mood. None of the usual stuff that helped shake off my bad tempers, seemed to succeed in coaxing even a smile out of me... or so the situation was until this happened.

While waiting at a signal, a brawl, that had gathered quite an audience, caught my eye(..there's something about miserable people attracting miserable people,na?). Looking closely to find out what was happening, I saw two people, an auto driver and a car driver snarling and making attempts to catch each others throats. There were loads of blows and swearing....and noise... horns honking and people trying to pull the two wrestlers apart...lots of action...And then all of a sudden there was silence...

Everything stopped, the horns, the impatient people and the fighting...And with the same abruptness there was an uproar of laughter....Why?

Because... all of a sudden a certain wrestler found himself airing his pretty hind, draped in nothing less flattering than polka dots, to a whole lot of people... i.e, his lungi had fallen off...

.......And THAT was what brought a smile to my face on the worst day of my life... it brings a smile even to this day... hope it helps brighten your day..


P.S: For those of you who don't know what a lungi is... It's a typical South Indian dress which the menfolk wear.. The easiest way to explain what it looks like is, is that it's like a wrap-around skirt... only in this case, it's the type men wear...!!

I was going through today's newspaper and the magazine section and was left with a bitter taste on my tongue. Why? Because it's not exactly one of the most tasteful things in the world to see women and men in a few strips of cloth, baring everything there is, for the world to see while sipping a cup of morning tea (or coffee).

It's not only the newspapers. Today's movies, songs, etc. are the teachers in the "wear no clothes" school. Why is it so necessary to bare skin for a movie or a song to be a hit? How does Paris Hilton stripping make the movie House of Wax (or any other) any more popular? Sure, you could always say, " SG you really are dense! Making her walk around in red lingerie forms the scary aspect of the movie…!!!"

And why point fingers at only Hollywood? We ourselves are not only following them, we're on our way to attaining the title of world-leaders in this field ... Most teenagers, children of what they call "generation next", will snap back at you and while looking down their noses explain that it's the most "in" thing to wear the least possible amount of clothing. And of course we're old-fashioned and hence won't understand such things. How does showing more skin on TV or in a pub, than you even see in your own bathroom, make you more popular? And it's not for the gals only…there are enough men parading around in all sorts of things that qualify as "clothing" on TV and on the streets.

I don't see what's wrong in wearing "sexy" stuff… but when the "sexy" stuff comes not only close to, but is synonymous with "nudity" a problem arises. It's not a question of being comfortable with baring yourself to the world it's a question of ethics. Ms.Sharawat says, "Why should I hide my body when I've worked so hard on making it what it is today?" Why indeed?

The human body is not something to be ashamed of, I agree. But, why is there a need to prove to the world that you have an excellent body? Most studies suggest, that when the upper strata of the human brain is empty, people tend to use such means to draw attention and make a standing for themselves in society. They're called airheads, tarts, etc... And what a standing, eh?!!

With the fear of sounding like your grandmother… I'd say that our old Indian traditions win this battle by a mile and a half. I'm not asking you to cover every centimeter of your skin, like done in the olden times, but why go to the other extreme instead?

Like everything else on this planet, a need for balance is required with respect to this particular issue too.

...OR {bulb just lit} are we trying to preserve the culture of our ancestors and hence resorting to leaves and scraps of clothing??

Today I noticed a foreigner sitting in the passenger seat of a car, wearing a seat belt; I've seen it before, but today, I felt pathetic. It's thought provoking, really, the world of double standards, that we live in! Foreigners who come to India follow rules viz., wearing seat belts, not littering roads and using them as public urinals, not cutting through the lanes while driving, and actually following the Red means Stop, Amber means Rest and Green means Go!! They follow them in their own country, and they come to India and follow them too...Pathetic, that is what we are.

When we go abroad, we very very meticulously follow rules. No driving above the speed limit, no spitting 'pan' on the roadside, following signal signs to name just a few. Also, we not only manage to control our bladders until we find a toilet, but we also control the urge to throw things on the road and actually strain ourselves to look for dustbins!!!!

....Is it me or is it just following the When in Rome, be a Roman policy?

What's worse is that we follow these double standards in other spheres of our lives too. As long as you are dumping garbage in front of someone else's house, its OK. The minute some one does the same to you, how long does it take for you to call up the municipality??

As long as I'm the one watering my plants even after it's rained that evening, its OK, what urges me to call and complain is when my neighbor decided to wash his balcony which is dirty.

Anyone who drives faster than me, is rash, and anyone who drives slower doesn't know how to drive.

Why does the question of "why should I?" arise every time there is a NEED and requirement for people to raise their voice and be heard. You see, as long as I can sit here and complain about how wrong things are with the working of the judicial system and police, I'm happy. Everyone is happy. Something is been questioned, after all. The problem arises when I have to take steps to eradicate the problem. Why should I,eh? Until one of my kin has been taking into custody by mistake, beaten up by rogues.. Why should I actually make an effort?

Since most of our actions are motivated by self-interest...Think of it this way,if you actually take steps to solve the problem, there won't be a situation where you'll have to cry about injustice in the world to the people around you when you find yourself in a pit..

You can question my creditability for having the guts to point out such things. On my behalf, I can say that I made my share of the effort. It's not 100% and I'm still trying. But, I wear my seat belt, correct my dad when he parks wrong no matter how convenient, and don't spit and throw stuff on the roads... And I would bet anything, and win, to convince you that once YOU start making an effort, people will follow.. 'cuz you see what people are looking for is an example. 'Cuz when you make a effort to change, you stand out, and people notice it. And they are forced to follow it, 'cuz even they know deep down, that that is the right way to go.

Don't do it for me or for someone else. Do it for yourself. You see Gandhiji always said, " You have to be the change you want to see in the world."

For all those learned people out there, I'd like to ask you... "What is the charm in drinking, doing drugs, fagging,etc?"

Me, as dumb as I am, think it's an absolute waste of life and money. No amount of reasons, justifications or "peer pressure" can be an excuse enough for a person to go down this particular road.

Nosirr. This is one place where I know what to think and what not to. You can tell me it gives you a high and makes you feel like your flying... well i'll tell you... If you wanna fly, stick a parachute bag on your back and jump from a chopper and flap your hands... THAT is called flying. The only high this drug-booze-thing helps you reach is the highest high a person can reach... You know that place above the clouds, where harps play music, you see birds twittering around your head.. and you find yourself with a set of wings and in a white gown....!!! You take your family along too... not to mention all the dear people who happen to be on the road while your drive... it's a free for all thing,eh?

You can tell me it's the "cool" thing...Mister, this will only end you up in a morgue so chilled up that no amount of heat can de-freeze you, yeah??

It's an escape to some people from the realities of this big bad world. You're what they call a poltroon then. If you have problems then deal with them damnit. You've got clothes on you, money in your pocket, a family, enough to fill your stomach and a roof over your head... what more can a person ask for?? What do you crib about when there are people without limbs, eyesight, money and in a million other more horrible situations that you are... fighting and facing what's in front of them... But, you? Nah...You stick your tail in between your legs and take the easy way out... Coward.

The first thing I noticed when I came to Chennai was that every road leads to a temple. And every road had at least two shops that sold liquor... What's more amusing is that each of these shops have names of God's and Goddesses on them. Does that imply it's the bestest thing to do when your in trouble?? It implies TROUBLE. People first drink and kill and then go to these temples, catch their ears and ask for forgiveness..!!

This whole living in boozeland thing only ends up creating hell for you and your family. It's OK to enjoy a good maritini or champagne or whatever at a party or something... Why turn it into an obsession or a hobby?

Waiter, one fresh orange juice please!

We all wear shoes. Even if we think the black shiny formal shoes are stuffy and meant for the "big guys".. We have to wear them one day or the other, unless it's Ok to be Ok with wearing chappals , where ever it is that we are going. You can't end up at a formal function wearing Bata bathroom slippers unless of course you're making ( or trying to make ) a fashion statement...!

Point is that though the main purpose of wearing them is mainly for comfort and to provide a barrier from our feet touching the ground.... They serve a larger purpose too....They help to judge a person's character. One of the first things another person notices about you, is what you wear on your feet.

It doesn't always help make a correct assessment, like in the case of Ruskin Bond's stories... But most of the times it helps make a fair decision. For example, if you turn up wearing some sort of fluorescent, rubber chappals, its obvious to another person that you're a beach bum. Or just one helluva guy. They stand as a symbol of how serious, sensible, not serious and not sensible, tidy, untidy or how smart you are.

One can easily spot a pauper from a king. Suppose you enter an office and you see the Manager there wearing some cheap footwear that shows off his dirty nails with muck stuck in them.. I don't think I could trust him with my consignment (or whatever).. 'cuz the man can't even take care of himself! You could be dressed in the best suits or dresses and give the show away by wearing highly inappropriate footwear.

It's said, that while eyes are the windows to a person's soul...me says, your feet are the index to YOU.(P.S. windows sounded stupid here!)

There's also the more scientific reasons, you should consider. The thing is the kind of support you provide your feet with affects your back, spine and your neck. A wrong choice of footwear could screw up your neck and spinal cord real bad and end you up with a bad case of spondylitis. In minor cases you could end up with shoe- bites or just aching feet.

So, while you go and polish your shoes, or get someone to do them for you... I'm gonna shooooooo away... Have a good day!

50,000 people died of poverty on Monday. A 2-3 year old with two sticks, called legs, took 5 minutes to gain balance, so that he could stand. He had a pot belly ( one of the signs of Kwahiorkor,, malnutrition, protein deficiency and marasmus). You could count the ridges in one's spine on his back. I could count 7. There was mud and dirt stuck everywhere. There were flies taking 'red eyes' from his leg to his face. There was no strength in his hands to ward off flies. What was the point anyway? They would only come back. Workaholic flies.

50,000 people died of poverty on Tuesday. It's a beautiful day. It's a beautiful place. The place where you can see nature in all its glory. It's the land of deserts, tropical evergreen forests and sand-covered beaches. It's home to the largest wildlife and breeding ground for the world's largest flora. A thousand ships found its coasts and brought with them merchants and colonisers. A thousand ships left its shores, years later, with everything that the land had to offer. Now these very shores serve as a source of entertainment to the living village kids and a source of income to an odd fisherman. Welcome to Africa!

50,000 people died of poverty on Wednesday. A baby lay within the protection provided by its mother against the harsh climate. He wore no clothes. There were flies all over him. I don't think what could be see on him was skin. He was hungry. Not even the liquid-protein stuff that passed as food was left. So, he bawled. Everyone in the vicinity was below 25 years. If the infants were lucky they'd live to see their 16th birthday. And then they'd die of either AIDS, an epidemic, malnutrition, or poverty. Did I say lucky?? The place where you see nature in its most cruel form. A gold mine, now suffering from poverty. Welcome to Africa!

50,000 people died of poverty on Thursday and Friday.

You could go on thinking
That there was nothing wrong
Whatever happened to those values of humanity
When a child is now born into this world
With no sense of skin on his bones.

50,000 people died of poverty on Saturday.

And it will never happen again.

Because there was a concert going on across 4 continents, a 50-100 cities, with more than 30 bands/ individuals performing, at least a million people as live audience and a billion watching world over. It's the second largest concert to be seen after the Woodstock in 1969. With an audience that could easily be mistaken as the entire city, artists put their hearts into the mission and performed. Something was being done about it. People really do care.

8 world leaders, gathered in Scotland for the G8 summit, will be presented with a workable plan to double aid, drop the debt and make the trade laws fair. If these 8 men agree, then we will become the generation that made poverty history.

But they'll only do it if enough people tell them to. ' We don't want your charity, we want YOU.' Sign the Live8 list now... Log on to http://www.live8live.com

This week poverty can be beaten. The concert is/was going on live at Tokyo,Rome, Canada, Berlin, Russia, Italy, Germany, Philadelphia, London, Paris, Cornwall, Las Vegas, Toronto... And you've got Madonna, Bon Jovi, Mcfly, Will Smith, Muse, Destiny's Child, Celiene Dion, Elton John, REM, Robbie Williams, U2, Pet Shop Boys, Scissor sisters,Faith Hill, Pink Floyd, The Who, George Michael, Gilmore, Bryan Adams, Velvet Revolver and Slash, Sir Paul Mcartney,Ms.Dynamite,David Hallyday,Shakira, Alicia Keys,Craig David,Liking Park, Green Day, Sting... And still counting!!! It beats going around the world in 80 days. I've been moving across continents every 15 minutes!

Hopefully, the Africans will now be provided with basic education, shelter, food and medical facilities. Hopefully, no more people will die of AIDS because they weren't aware. Hopefully, their babies will now have skin. Hopefully, they'll have the strength to fight the flies. Hopefully, they'll have clean water to drink and clothes to wear. Their prayers have been answered. People did care. Somebody up there, was watching them.

Light up. Light up.
Even if you can't hear my voice,
I'll be right beside you dear,
I swear in the days left,
We'll walk in fields of gold together.

On Sunday, no more people died of poverty anywhere on the globe.