First snowy evening

The snow is falling
One foot thick
On the ground it stays
The blanket white
And purity
Thinking of my days

The house is warm and heated
Bundled up stay warm
My energy low, undefeated
I’ll still stay linger on

Ponder on my kids and loves
If they saw this would rejoice
I know theyre safe in Singapore
Secure in their choice

Saw a picture baby new
a tear did pass my eyes
I call on lord to comfort me
He who hears my cries

Remember days of children young
Cradled in my arms
Never dreamed we would part ways
Protect them from all harms

The blanket thick of this white snow
Patience mantle thin
Do not forebode whats coming next
My outlook never grim

I know this is a test for me
Who asked for patience long
Ill grow in faith and purity
Perhaps path not so long

grudge

The people bear a grudge
The one they wont forget
And burn the future dear
Until their death they get

The people wont forgive
Forever bear a grudge
Don’t give a chance to live
In anger choose to trudge

Don’t they know they see
We discard future chance
Chose to burn in fury
Throw the chance to dance

If they only knew
To forgive set them free
Whats use to hang on hurt
Is fury all they see

If they only knew
With future give a chance
Forgive and live with love
Give happy thoughts a chance


How many have I seen
Who swore never forgive
And weep so loud and scream
When loved ones ceased to live

How loud their oath and swear
Burned by their own words
If only they forgave
Would not face the absurd

The chance to live their life
That chance to smile a while
Forgive dare set heart free
Let not evil beguile

Too many times I failed
In this same very hole
Buried myself deep
A clown most suiting role

self metamorphosis

I’m not the man I was
Forever scarred and changed
The wrinkles clear and grey
The sands of time untamed

The sights I have now seen
Unspoken horrors deep
The fool who tempted fate
Most times feel so meek

The change to new born self?
Did not search for this trip
The life of past burned up
Feeling such ill fit

The change that must be made
If only to self save
Do not resist this path
Painful and depraved

The time it must move
With soul that must go forth
Futile resistance
And this they call it growth

Mundane penance

A word my thoughts to share
Mundane ,feel not a thing
In sweaters bundled warm
Feel not the urge to sing

The hours spent in vain
With pleas never heard
Alone now common place
Love turned to absurd

Forgiveness know it not
Forgiveness of myself
A critic harsh I am
This story I Can’t sell

Indeed injury deep
My path I’ve felt much pain
This self-growth so hard
And story seems so plain

I know from this I’ll rise
Perhaps this penance clear
Mend the soul that’s broke
Restore to strangers dear

First snows

The first snow of the year
A blanket of pure white
The green trees painted cold
The stinging wind that bites

The air its cold below
Below zero proclaims
With all seen bundled up
To love this, true insane

The purity of it all
For me does not forebode
Sitting in warm house
Truly more than bored

The people tread in haste
Complain of chattering teeth
A lovely chance to rest
Admire the beauty deep

How wondrous is this plan
From summers heat to cold
The variance amazed
Excitement times of old

Remember first snows
Teenagers and snow fights
Look to the beauty deep
This isn’t wrong,, its right

Do not regret this plan
Let nature take its coarse
Admire change rebirth
The true root heavens mirth

Unappreciated

They who insult me
And challenge my self worth
True the challenged ones
Value less than dirt

Who call on me for help
But challenge what I do
Its clear intentions bad
Their humaneness few

Those who treat me like
Some new teacher green
Are they the insecure
In truth I want to scream

I know a waste of time
Understand me not
Like speaker foreign tongue
Let their intentions rot

Will they ever learn
Respect for other ones
For them a concept new
Truly zero sum

Whats wrong with this thing man
Respect a foreign foe?
I beg please open eyes
Perchance in this we’ll grow

If they only knew

If they only knew
How much I do miss them
Perhaps shed a tear
Or share that with their friends

If they could but feel
Emotions in my heart
Naked without them
In sadness had to part

If I shared with me
Extent of my love
Reduce the lonliness
Rely on the above

If they were witness
The times their picture stare
Kiss it, do they sense
Chase away despair

So happy if I call
To hear the small cute sound
To share ,dismiss the miles
My joy does it rebound

I’m proud of them my dears
Indeed they’ve grown mature
Who ne'er intentioned pain
I know intentions pure

She who scores the marks
Other in exams
The young with football love
Their memory at hand

One day soon I pray
To see them, more so near
To hug to hold to join
To love them my dear dears

At last I close with prayers
God keep them ever safe
With lamps to light their paths
Remove them from disgrace

Teaching

My hours they are spent
Teaching younger ones
They who seek to know
With small trace of fun

They who come to me
Whose questions do help solve
Grow in wisdom dear
Improvement their resolve

The ones who would try
To test my discipline
Perhaps they act in fun
To test if patience thin

And then the cute small ones
Babies in their right
With small bright eyes and smiles
Their innocence like light

I fear for them in truth
This world full of pain
That wash intentions away
It tricks and it beguiles

First chills of winter

The air is crisp
With mounting cold
And temperature descend

The wifts of snow
The hidden sun
With temporary end

The barren trees
devoid of leaves
naked bare alone

Sit in guarded house
Im here
Warmed in heated home

The people all
Bundled with clothes
Features hidden hats

Protect from chills
And save from frost
New memories to last


The walks in cool
Morning air
No strain breath it heaves

With purity
And silence pure
Treading on dead leaves

The majesty
Of it all
Shows purpose so divine

Creator dear
His work so good
So deep and so sublime

The cool it does not bother me
Surrender to his will
Natural progress true it is
Glory lingers still

The spring it is
Not so far
Waiting for rebirth

This life of patience
Self imposed
With him return to mirth

Rejoice in his
Power so great
Of which none compare

Oh dear God
Teach me some more
Its we who are the bare

Childrens prayer

I miss my kids
Their daily smile
With sleepy face
To rest a while

I miss dear kids
Their daily noise
Who sometimes fight
And messy toys

I miss my loves
They’re part of me
Won’t let that go
Don’t seek be free

I miss that one
Hero my babe
Premature
The one so brave

And she princess
Who loves her books
With solitude
And beauty looks

And then theres he
The angel dear
With toys and pets
So far I fear

I long to see
I long to hold
A parent far
Don’t feel so bold

Oh how I wish
Exchange a smile
A hug or wink
Merely a while

Oh god I pray
For all them dears
To bless them so
Remove from fears

Dear lord I beg
Put them bove me
Whats best for them
My fervent plea

Dear God I know
I ask so much
With providence
Theyre in your trust

If I could but
Touch them again
My tears erased
So happy then

Oh how I pray
Them forgive me
Until that day
Heart wont be free

Oh dears to me
Belong to God
Accept patience
My prayer not odd

True one day soon
For that I pray
Expectant tears
And patience stay

I swear for them
Donate my heart
Hesitate not
For that to part

My prayers dear
And prayer long
I’ll tread this path
And right my wrongs

The night with God

The beauty of the night
Bewitching dark sincere
The star lit darkened sky
Devoid of pain and fear

The single stars that shine
Beacons in the dark
With cold wind biting air
Majestic bright and stark

The peace of this night
The quietness no sound
In silence feel such peace
Lifted off the ground

Ponder on creation
From He majestic strong
Whose handiwork is this
No need to search for wrong

I walk if only slight
In crisp cool deep beauty
No reprehense nor blame
In a state of glee

What wonder is this night
So pure so deep and strong
Gives proof of his work
His praises oh so long

Indeed I want not more
Self satisfied with him
My cup is not empty
Finally return to him

Oh Allah my dear lord
How can I comprehend
Your wondrous work and this
That which never ends

Canada

The beauty of this land
Its luscious, oh so rare
with evergreens and lakes
gorgeous beyond compare

The leaves changed in hue
And autumn air so clean
Refreshing cool and full of life
Dearer than nice dreams

The walks along these roads
With strangers greeting me
Who seem to see my soul
This soul that would be free

My walk it doesnt tire
Feasting in my eyes
Relish experience
Devoid of pain and lies

The lake near our house
And path all strewn with leaves
Mood of cheer and warmth
Allays my hungry tears

and then I do return
to house to home and love
Inhale that feeling dear
With blessings from above

Can you comprehend
This place and majesty
Who needs ask for more
In here I seek to be

The old and ancient house
The cobblestone knows my name
The coffee place and smile
Escape from the mundane

This home a land I love
And cherish it I keep
what peaceful joy I feel
The restful dreams and sleep

The cover of the snow
That purifes so white
Devoid of reprehense
That seems to issue light

This lovely land I know
Who kind adopted me
Old homeless found new place
What comfort , oh such glee

Do not take for granted
What it is we've got
A home a place to rest
Answer to whats sought

autumn walk

I walk on streets alone
single solitary man
the few cars pass me by
oh beautiful nice land

the autumn air that bites
the road all strewn with leaves
with dimming cold sunlight
my pulse it beats and heaves

the thoughts they flood my mind
I am companion best
my mind that scolds my heart
seeking soul to rest

the walk I do so short
and path of growth so long
believe Im on my way
to right my many wrongs

Recovery

They spend with me long hours
for fixing broken hand
reassuring smile
returning to this land

who smile at me with hugs
give positive words
lifting injured soul
new positivity learned

who mend old scars with love
extoll me to be strong
the road recovery
now seems not so long

the family of streng
with discipline and prayers
ive had enough of tears
no need for pain to bear

ive climbed out of this hole
with eyes to the sun
whats use to live with past old hurt
my grieving days are done

Gratefulness

Yesterday was Friday.
As usual, I headed to prayers.

I took my cane, dressed nicely, and made the 10 km trek by car.

I smiled and conveyed Salams all the Muslim brothers, most of whom I don`t recognize yet. They returned the same in kind to the newest stranger.

After praying sunnah, my legs were rather frozen, so the two worshipers on either side of me helped me to my feet, shaky and unstable

The sermon spoke about gratefulness, first in urdu, then English,.

We must show gratefulness to God for everything, whether ease or difficulty. This was very relevant to my current state.

Grateful for health, life, providence, faith, and even gratefulness in trials, in fact in everything.

All praise belongs to Allah, who guides us through life`s mysteries.

CANADA

heres news of canada

the weather is colder now average 10 degrees
its fall OR autumn
leaves are falling off trees. colors are red and brown
I try to walk often, with my cane to get some air and clear my head

My mom is doing 3 hrs of physiotherapy on my broken hand everyday, which is tortuously painful, but my hand works better now.
The support of the family is comforting and needed, esp in this time of loneliness

There's a mosque being built 2km from the house here,and
altogether more than a hundred places to pray in Toronto
I see many wearing hijab
I do friday prayers in a mosque 10 km from the house
khutba is in Urdu , English and Arabic
Majority of the mosque crowd is pakistani but many arabs and other races are apparent too



No snow yet, but its coming, and
halal restaurants are common

Theres green everywhere. lots of coniferous trees like huge chrismas trees in every yard

Theres a big lake near the house. in
January it will freeze and people will skate on it


Subuh is 5 am and sunrise 7, Isha at 9pm but days are getting shorter with approach of winter

My parents andIi went to a nearby farm to pick fruits and vegetables. They give you a huge bucket = 1 bushel and you fill it on your own and pay for it. There are strawberries, peppers, cucumbers, corn on the cob, and many others.
When my government health insurance clears(because i was away so long, i have to wait)
I will go for extensive tests to determine the reason for my numbness, and the extent of the MS

Feel damn lonely without my family, (kids) and friends
but my prayers keep me patient and sane. Teary too




Once my arm is functional, ill get a job as a teacher, and god willing enroll in further studies
I love the cool weather
but miss singapore food and hot sun

Toronto is a huge city, population 3 million,
It takes maybe 2 hrs by car going 100km/hr to cross it

Haven't made many friends yet, but all the mosque brothers smile at me
My sister lives at home here with mom, dad, her husband and 2 daughters

My prayers are constant and in sha Allah remain so forever

I convey my salams to all; dearly beloved


salam alaikm to all

Adam
Rami

Lifelong Learning

Lifelong Learning

There are many who mistakenly assume that education and learning is limited to school days. Once the person finishes or drops out of school, learning and education becomes irrelevant to them. This is both a dangerous and mistaken assumption. Learning , in actuality, is a process that begins in early childhood and continues throughout our lives.

Learning can be divided into formal and informal education. Formal education commences with our school days and may continue to university or postgraduate studies. Informal learning, on the other hand, is that which we gain through the multitude of our human interactions and experiences. This then begs the question; “why do we need to learn throughout our lives?”

Simply speaking, Lifelong learning is for the purpose of development. We are all experiencing very dramatic changes in our lives today. These can be strongly attributed to technological advances as well as the onset of globalization. The Internet has caused a revolution and sprouted the information age. Information is changing at such a rapid rate that it necessitates our continual learning in order to keep up, or even remain competitive.

In addition to that, the former paradigm of localization has been replaced with trading blocks and globalization. This has dramatically increased both competition, as well as the need for us to remain competitive in this new milieu sand environment. Learning will help us to keep us abreast of changing markets, changing worldwide developments, and a changing world.

At a micro level, learning will help us to develop ourselves. Old knowledge gained is still important as a foundation, but it is a rapidly evolving and changing body of knowledge. Lifelong learning will equip us with the skills to cope with these changes and adjust.

It is crucial that we be adaptable to these changes. Learning can increase our adaptability. It will empower us with new knowledge, skills and insights.

At a personal level, life long learning will lead to our fulfillment. We can grow and develop. This is inevitable in a changing world, and will help us to reach our full potential. It is very satisfying to learn new concepts and new knowledge. Through this we develop improve and grow mentally. Simply put, it is a positive evolution.

From a macro perspective, life long learning is even more crucial. Through the learning of the general population within a culture , state or region, economic growth can be achieved. With a burgeoning world population, the necessity of economic growth can not be understated.

In addition to that, the fast growing knowledge will aid in the social development of the nation and the people. New knowledge can improve social relationships. New medical knowledge can enhance quality of life. Even the education process can be improved. These are just a few applications. There is no limit to the applicability of new knowledge.

Lifelong learning should be considered as a necessity not only for the individual, but also for the development of the entire human family. It will satisfy our needs, improve our world, develop us, and motivate us in our path to constant improvement. As the old Arabic saying goes Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.




Reference
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lifelong_learning

How to study for examks effectively

Dear students

Your O levels orb other tests are looming ahead. You feel that you must do well. Your future career depends on the quality of your results. You would like to go to a good college or University. The important question is “How do I improve my results?”

Here are a few strategies which will hopefully improve, not only your academic results in O levels, but in further studies as well.

A. First remember that there are no shortcuts. You must review constantly, preferably daily for at least an hour. Cramming the night before exams will only yield exhaustion and forgetfulness .Successful students study consistently and constantly.

B. Assess your personal goals. What is it that you want to achieve? Many go through life with no definitive goals. Their behavior then becomes erratic haphazard and directionless. If you know what you desire clearly, then you will work towards it.

C. Practice does make perfect. In order to succeed do not just sit in class passively observing your teacher solve problems. You must make a concerted effort to practice questions from your text, past year papers, and red spot series. Try to solve the questions done in class on your own without referring to the notes. This is an effective way to improve your knowledge as well as your confidence.

D. Believe in yourself and abilities. Many students study effectively, but paralyze themselves through fear. Be confident that you have mastered the questions and theories. Talk to yourself in a positive way.” I will remember. I will succeed”, not: “This test will be so hard and I am not good enough”. Trust your abilities. Take and Talk away your fear.

E. Understand, the theory, whether it be Mathematics Geography, or any other discipline. You must attend classes regularly. You must revise your notes and book . If there are some areas of difficulty, do not be shy to ask your teacher for explanation or help.

F. Remember that solving questions does not mean you understand the theory. Question structures always change. If you understand the theory , you will be able to address any question. Understand the relevant theory. Read and revise regularly.

G. Create interest and excitement in your quest for knowledge. If you enjoy what you are studying, you will perform better. Most things that interest us are memorable. Remember that these results are an important step in your future aspirations.

H. Manage your time. You must be consistent in studying. In exams, do not spend too much time on any one question. Do not waste your time on useless counterproductive activities like negative self talk. .Also remember that a short 10 minute break after studying for an hour will relax your mind and body. A relaxed mind is more receptive to knowledge. Avoid tenseness


I. Adjust to your learning style. Some are visual learners, others are auditory or kinesthetic. If you are a visual learner, write your notes down and read them. If you are auditory, read your notes out loud to yourself.

J. Use memory tricks, even if seemingly ridiculous to remember important points. Mnemonic devices can be very useful.

Below are some websites that can give you a more in-depth understanding of the issues discussed in this short paper.

Hopefully all these simple strategies will help you build up your confidence and skills towards success.



References

www.betterschoolresults.com

http://homeworktips.about.com/od/makingthegrades/a/badgrades.htm

http://www.ldpride.net/learningstyles.MI.htm

http://www.eudesign.com/mnems/_mnframe.htm

Insatiable search

Whenever I morose
I pray for them my dears
Wipe away my frowns
Erase my lonely tears

I picture them so well
Of happy cheer and glee
Whatever sadness faced
Replaced from only he

Remember them in prayers
With tears awash my face
Pray God to keeps them safe
Away from pain disgrace

My loneliness departs
If only for a while
Replaced with Yakin
And faintest trace of smile

I dream of them to hug
And yearn for them to hold
Feeling emptiness
Oh so grey and old

I know in truth the time
The time it waits for me
Reunited glad
Wide smile for all to see

And I also know
With patience I must bear
in truth never alone
Of nothing to be scared

A promise he most high
Perhaps some sins be gone
A pin prick or a frown
Patience lingers on

Still I feel some sad
Eyes awash with tears
Alas a hypocrite
Who won’t surrender fears

I prayed to him all times
This answer came to me
Prescription must accept
Even though can’t see

Do they feel the same?
Or happy if I’m gone
Pondering insane?
I will not quit till done

Do they wait for me?
Or enemy erased
Forget the angry one
Ignoble and disgraced

Do they miss a smile?
A touch a glance or hug
Would not have them feel pain
Feelings swept to rugs

Oh I wait for them
Do they wait for me?
Reunite perchance
Deeper knowledge see

The one with strong good voice
Another laws to see
The leader so young
And youngest toys for he

How I long to hug
Oh I yearn embrace
If I shed tears am I a man
Or merely fool disgraced

I wished so long ago
To grow in knowledge deep
Perhaps this wish come true
Reason clear lost sleep

Funny is a man
Who yearns but slow accept
I know this is for good
Although of smile bereft

One day answer clear
Of that I know I’m sure
Meet creator good
And then I’ll want no more

Cambodia after 5 weeks

Today , I count the halfway point of my fifth week in Cambodia. I miss my family still ,but find that I have adjusted to the aloneness to a great extent. On numerous occasions, I was at home alone. Others had their own agendas with which I did not interfere.

That aloneness used to bother me greatly, but now much less so. I have a strong feeling that I am never alone, after all. Simon and Garfunkel once said :” I have my books and my poetry to protect me… shielded in my armour “ in the song entitled, I am a rock. Well, to a great extent it is true for me. I study the books we have and write some form of poetry. I add to the lyrics, I have my prayers,

Praise the almighty alone, I have been constant therein. I added to it a 3am night prayer. It doesn’t wake anyone but me. Here , the sun sets at 6 pm, and we usually call it a night by 10 pm. The night prayer comforts me greatly. I missed it last few nights, and felt the loss.

I started another useful habit as well. I now walk every evening for about 30-45 minutes. Many dogs in the neighborhood bark at me, to my great displeasure. I used to be scared of dogs when I was young. I still am to an extent. It is subject to how the dogs behave of course, Dogs also have a sense of how we feel about them,that exacerbates matters, no doubt I resolved to carry a stick with me today, so an overly zealous dog backed off. I knew he saw the stick. At night , the dogs bark a lot. I have seen dogs fighting in the streets at times

The exercise reminds me of jogging in years passed. I feel that I am becoming more conditioned now, and my energy level is rising.The lethargy that I suffer from at times has lessened.Funny is that I do this walking with a pair of flip flop slippers. I do not have any running or walking shoes yet.

There is a huge market for used clothing and apparel here. One can easily find used pants, dresses, shirts and shoes. The standard of living is very low here,and subsequently the prices follow. Many people wear pyjamas, or pyjama looking clothing, of the pants and shirt type. That includes adults as well as children.

One can also find branded items as well. I enquired about a Swatch watch yesterday. It was priced at US $100. It all depends on whether people take the effort to find originals.

I suspect intellectual property laws are not very enforceable here. Some of it is rather amusing. There is a convenience store near the house. It is called 6 -11. I laughed aloud when I passed it and wondered if the passersby thought me crazy. I guss they didn';t want to copy the correct name as per US standards.

The mode of transportation here chosen by most is the motorcycle.They are much more affordable than cars, and so the people of lower incomes definitely use them. Many motorcycles are local brands, and others the more familiar brands like Hondas. Many motorcycle drivers earn money as motor taxis. I do not know if that is there full time job, or they just do it as a supplement. Whenever I walk, many ask me if I want to hire them. Other neighbors are amused when I simply say “exercise.”
The people of higher income, like those in my neighborhood, who own big houses, have family cars.

The traffic here is very hard to understand. I have not seen any stop signs here since I arrived. There are few stoplights , except at the major intersections. Most roads have two way traffic, but some will drive the wrong way . I think the basic driving rule is to keep your eyes open and be defensive. Walking across the street is much the same matter. One has to watch and take their chances. The motorists are careful of pedestrians. The pedestrians must be brave at the same time. Many use bicycles as well.

Many motorists , car and motorbikes included, dispense with insurance. I do not know if it is enforceable by law. Many simply don’t buy it. May also dispense with helmets. The main rider usually wears one, and the pillion riders, who might be two adults and a child on a 125 cc bike, don’t .

Many taxis are Tuk Tuks here. That is a carriage, like olden day horse drawn carriages, attached to the back of a motorcycle. They are cheaper than car taxis which are also available.

Cambodia is a country with a strong Buddhist and Hindu tradition. Buddhist monks often walk the streets here.. They wear their typical orange garb and often carry an umbrella. They have a bowl in their hand and pass from house to house waiting for donations.

If given donations they utter a prayer or a chant. If not, they move on without incident. The people greet them by putting two open palms together, like the Indian Namaste. Many people greet each others the same way, especially the younger to the elder.

The level of poverty is very clear here. There are many destitute who walk up and down the street collecting plastic and paper refuse. They have a carriage on wheels that they pull behind them.. Whatever they collect they sell for a very low price. Others are small children,likely younger than 10. They are of very small builds. That’s most likely because they suyffer from malnutrition. They don’t attend school , and likely eat a meal of white rice once a day. Their builds are small, and they appear much younger than their years.

They walk aroundthe city with dirty cloth bags collecting garbage. Sadly, they don’t have much hope for developing a better future without education. There are many families here who live on 1$ US a day. Those who eat 3 meals a day , and enjoy luxuries like McDonalds or meat, forget how fortunate they are. These children know hunger so well. They collect less than 10 cents per kg of hollow aluminum cans. They don’t eat for days, perhaps.

There are many street vendors here. Many are not stationary. They walk up and down streets peddling their wares. Two days ago, I purchased some roasted salted bananas. I got four small thumb size salted hot bananas for 500 riels. 4000 riels is 1US$ at a pegged rate.

I saw a strange sight when I was in Siem Reap. They were selling cockroaches or dung beetles. I don’t know how they prepare them. It was an interesting sight.

Some of the fruits here are similar or identical to those of Malaysia and Singapore. They have Rambutans and Durian. Rambut means hair in the Malaysian language. These fruits are the size of golf balls and are red in color. They have a thick outer skin which is hairy. The inside is a juicy white fruit with a large seed.

Durians are called the king of fruits in Malaysia. They are the size of small or large watermelons and are very thorny. One cannot carry them unless they wear gloves. The vendors do as they are used to it and have no doubt accumulated callouses. A sharp point on this fruit can easily draw blood.

The inside has creamy white pods with large seeds. It is high in sugar and cholesterol. The fruit has a strong smell that many foreigners find distasteful. It is an acquired taste to many. It can be very expensive. It is a delicacy I rarely savour.

Bananas are very common here. They are made into a sweet milky porridge at times. They can also be barbecued salty. There are many different types of bananas here that range in size from two fingers to a forearm. Many times they are fried in batter.

Corn is seen as a dessert. I even had corn flavored ice cream many years ago in Malaysia. It was surprisingly tasty. Different cultures views can deviate dramatically.

Our neighbor has two mango trees infront of his house. We’ve tasted some of the fruits that he kindly offered us. They were orange juicy and sweet. I am filled with wonder of creaton. A tree, a plant, with water and sunlight alone can produce the most wondrous delicatesweet fruits. Photosynthesis is truly a wonder of the creation of the world.
My stay in Cambodia has had me dining on all sorts of green vegetables. Fish is abundant. It’s become a daily affair. I am happy that it’s healthy food. I do miss home-cooking though.

Phnom Penh

Walk on dusty streets
Treading forlorn paths
With silence I speak loud
Hiding bitter wrath

The language I don’t speak
Converse only smiles
Can they read my heart
No lies deceit beguiles

My neighbor ancient man
Grey haired reminds of dad
Sit with him drink tea
His company I’m glad

He speaks to me merci
The only French he knows
His smile speaks books
Familiarity grows

And I, I rest at home
With comrades new or dear
Hide from them deep pain
Disguise bitter tears

The one of them young man
With wife and 2 kids
Reminds me of my own
Emotions under lids

The other one heart friend
He Who kindly hugs
Can’t speak so much to him
Alas bitter rub

Then we travel miles
On motors of slow speed
They laugh at fearful prayers
I dread perchance to bleed

And then to come home
What travesty this name
I call it home alone
What’s truly in a name

The children’s laugh and smile
A joy I rarely share
Beg for busy work
Of loneliness to bear

A self imposed solitude
I pray in this I grow
No fool to share the pain
No one truly knows

I pray forgiveness far
Not pity comprehend
I send my love in notes
To forsee the end

I will return one day
In victory a smile
Proclaim I made it whole
I know the worth of trials

Visiting the Khhmer prison

The same day, in the afternoon after lunch, I was in for another shock. We visited the S21 or toul slineang prison. It was formerly a school and had the outward appearance of a learning institution. Inside was very different.

The first thing I noticed was a sign. It spoke in 2 languages. It said to the prisoners” Do not protest your innocence. we are not stupid and did not arrest the wrong people”. Many of those arrested and tortured were innocent young children. Their pictures were hauntingly displayed.

Each room we visited in the school had a bed with no mattress. The Frame was metal and maybe used for electrocution. Rashna, my friend, abstained from the visit and waited outside. Perhaps it was too painful memory for him.

I have another colleague,the very affectionate Kia. He doesn’t speak much English. Still we communicate through signals. He lost his father to the torture. Most people in Cambodia have relatives who were killed during the revolution. Victims are 2 million in total.

As I said, the pictures of the victims adorned the prison school walls. Many were prepubescent children. Their faces begged the question “why is this happening to me,what have I done?”

The other prominent and memorable pictures were of grey haired men. They were equally tortured, equally innocent, and equally terrified. Women and little girls were not excluded from torture, misery,and inevitable death either.

The prisoners were shackled by one foot to the metal beds. There was no mattresses so one can imagine the pain of lying on metal. They had one leg shackled to the bed by a simple brace. This looked so small that it surely cut off circulation.

They were beaten with rods.Most times they were beaten to unconsciousness.They were then hung upside down and immersed in huge vats of water and faeces to wake them up.

They were held in cells that measured no bigger than a typical closet.
Again, paintings adorned the prison. Paintings showed the torture of the damned. I pray that they rest in high heavens for they went through hell already on Earth.

The prison had three storeys. All were equally dismal. The pictures of the prisoners were everywhere. “Why me” was painted painfully across their faces. The Paintings were graphic and disgusting.

Others were pictures of the prison guards. Their faces were hard and remorseless. They showed no human mercy, no pity and no empathy. I looked for a sign of humane warmth in any face and saw nothing but grim evil.

Jeremy saw my face of shock He asked me about all the times I had complained to him. He asked me about my frustrations at work. I felt like a hypocrite. I missed a promotion; so what? They missed any trace of peace comfort or happiness. I resolved to be more grateful, despite whatever loneliness or homesickness I felt. Any pain I ever had was nothing.

I met a former inmate at the prison.He was signing books. Jeremy bought one. I wanted to tell him how sorry I was. He was emaciated and gray , but he smiled through his pain.,

How I wished I could have spoken to this saintly man. I don’t speak Khymer or Cambodian. He doesn’t speak English. I wanted to apologize to him for his pain, as it might release an atom of grief from his tortured heart . Alas , that was futile. My words, had I been able to converse with him were mere show.
I touched his shoulder and greeted him with peace., I wanted to kiss his hand, but perhaps, he would have been offended,. The lines in his face showed 1000 spilt tears.

He signed the book with a smile and shook my hand strongly. The human spirit can be indomitable. I left the prison with deep memories etched in my mind. I'm sure the picture will never leave my mind. They were haunting.

The Killing Fields and Poll Pot

A few days after we returned to Phenom Penh, we visited the killing fields. I heard about the movie but never saw it. I even remember reading about it in the 1970’s,but I was too young then, and did not know the extent of the horror.

We took a 30 minute motorcycle ride to reach the place. I got a hat to shield me from the sun. I was told before we arrived to watch my step and lower my normally loud voice. The killing fields is really a mass cemetery. Bone fragments could be found, and thus I was warned about my step. Respect for the dead demanded silence. The whole place, about two football fields had numerous pits that were filled in. These pits were mass graves.

The first atrocity we saw was a tall 10 foot cabinet full of human skulls. Some were skulls of babies. Others were small and probably skulls of women.The majority were larger and belonged to dead men. That cabinet had 4 towers,each full. All skulls had big holes in them ,whether on top or the side. I am sure the fractures were from the intense beatings. No bullets were used.That was too expensive and too merciful. They were clubbed to death, decapitated while still alive at times,and thrown into pits. Invariably,they were blindfolded and led to slaughter blindly and innocently.gs

Knives or palm branches were used to saw off heads. The victims must have known their fate as they could hear the screams of their comrades. The killing fields is situated in a rural housing district. Large radios blared out deafening music to drown out the screams so the neighbors living close by would not hear the screams of the tortured.

Babies were also killed for fear they would grow up and avenge the death of their parents. Large nails were nailed into the palm trees. The heartless soldiers swung the babies by their legs like baseball bats against those nails. I struggle to find a stronger word than heartless. Perhaps devilish or demonic would be more fitting.

Some did not die and were buried alive. All this was perpetrated by the Poll Pot regime by the Khmer Rouge. There were some political assassinations there, but most,as I was led to believe were the elite, the educated, the pro democracy, the rich, and the anti Khmer rouge . My eyes teared as I prayed for the dead. My rage rose concurrently as I cursed the perpetrators. Human evil seems to have no limit.

All in all,9000 lost their lives in the one place. That is the number of skulls found . Perhaps more died. No mercy was shown. Pictures adorned the museum showing graphic drawings of the torture. It was macabre. Anyone visiting must have a strong disposition. The faint of heart can not take it.

Since my visit, I have not been able to dispel those bitter memories. When I have opportunity to talk to older people I touch upon the subject very gently and sympathetically. All Cambodian families were touched by the Poll Pot regime. Estimates range between 1 and 2 Million dead. May they all rest in peace.

Seam Reap

There are three very interesting places that I had the luxury to visit in my first two weeks in Cambodia.

For purpose of conciseness, the first was the small city of Seam Reap, where I visited Angkor Wat,the ancient Cambodian ruins that date roughly 900 years old from 1113.

The Second visit was a motorcycle ride of one hour to the Killing fields, 30 km from Phenom Penh ,my current residence.

The third, and by far the saddest, was the prison, situated in the city itself. That visit coincided on the same day with the killing fields visit. The latter two were experiences in seeing the human capability for evil. Thank God ,I had my two Cambodian friends with me to share my shock, sadness and disbelief.

Well, let me start with Seam Reap . It’s the hometown of my colleague Rashna and is situated 400 km north of where we live. That translates to a six hour comfortable bus ride. Thank God the bus had a toilet.

The trip was uneventful,the country side was beautiful, and the chairs restful. I slept two hours. The houses were all on stilts to prevent monsoonal flooding. Most had rice fields behind them. Livestock was everywhere to be seen. As I mentioned before, I even saw a woman bathing cow in a river

Most people here are Buddhist,so it wasn’t a shock, just a passing amusement. Fruit trees were equally prevalent.

We borrowed a car from Rashna’s friend, and got around very comfortably. SeamReap is a small city by Cambodian standards,and a small town by western standards. We settled in a very comfortable hotel . I was shocked to find the cost was $15 a night. we were very comfortable and wanted nothing.

We visited Rashna’s, communal home. It was supplied by a well with a pump, Helen Keller style. The water was cool and refreshing. The hospitality was amazing. He had built the house with his brother. It was simple , small and comfortable. I met his wife and kids. That made me miss my own even more. Sweet people they were

At Angkor Wat,the first ting I noticed was snake statues.They were clearly cobra like with the typical flaps at the neck. In Cambodian language they are called Naga.

They represent strength and as such, protect the domain of the royalty. The Cambodian people believe that they are descendants of the snake,not so foreign perhaps when you consider the story of Adam and Eve and the temptation by the serpent.
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They also believe that their first queen was descendant of the Naga king
There were two or three bridges. These represented a bridge from the underworld to our world,as well as a bridge from our world to heaven. All were built from huge stones. These stones averaged 5 tonnes in weight and were carried by elephants in ancient times.`

The temples were dedicated to the Hindu belief in Vishnu,one of the incarnations of their deity. It showed the epic battles he took place in through beautiful engravings on the walls.

There were 5 different ruins. We visited three I abstained from the last. My colleague Jeremy and his sister Ting went up. They took up that challenge alone, and climbed to dizzying heights.

We climbed to the top. I am notoriously bad at balance,and the steps were very small for my big feet. As such,I had Jeremy holding one arm and Rasna the other. The top most level must have been 100 steps above ground level. Thanks to my 2 companions, no injuries or falling occurred.

The last ruins that jeremy visited had very narrow steps. One look at them and I said no. Too high,. Too steep, an attempt could easily have been catastrophic. I know my limits.

We also went for a cow barbecue at the night. It was an entire cow on a huge spit . The ribs were already exposed as it was half eaten. It was pitch black night. The butchers were muslim and the meat permissible. They cut pieces off and cooked them for us.

Well after all the excitement and climbing, we decided to take the night bus back. I slept the whole way,and arrived in the morning refreshed.

Visitng Cambodia

Arrived in sunny Cambodia on a Wednesday night after an uneventful 2 hour flight from Singapore. I was very emotional at the airport, and while saying goodbye ,the last goodbye to my youngest son, Yusuf, since he was home from school. The others had their googbyes in the morning as they had school or necessary work.

Must have hugged him three four times tightly kissing him. The tears flowed very easily the entire day. My friend told me that others in the airport avoided me .as I looked so sad. Why? I will be away for at least 4 months. all alone, and my total work assignment will be two years. As Cambodia is only a 2 hour flight, I can visit the family a few times a year,God willing

Cambodian people are very hospitable. At meals, they serve Chinese tea,and continue to refill the cup until you signal them to stop. The tea is warm and light. Unfortunately for me, Cambodians are very fond of pork, I cant eat that , so I restrict myself to vegetables and bread when necessary. Lots of fish is available. They equally enjoy beer, and I equally abstain.

The weather in Cambodia is tropical. It is February but the temperature is 25C or higher. In Canada, it might well be -25, and I would be shivering.

We have a local friend helping us. The currency here is Real 1US $ = 4000, but everything is paid in dollars. Hotels, food etc. The food I eat is nice,but has loads of MSG.

There is a Muslim community here, albeit small.I believe 13%. Some speak Malay. They spoke a Malay sermon in the mosque on Friday. The muslim ladies wear head scarfs, and the men typical muslim hats.

Everything seems cheap,unless you eat western diets. A decent hotel room is $15 a night, A Mars bar in contrast is $1 and box of cornflakes$2.50. Local food is cheap. A meal for four people costs $10. Imports are expensive.

Some people drive Toyotas and Mercedes, and the non-city roads are narrow and 2 lanes.
We stayed in Phnom Penh from Wednesday night. On Friday, we took a 6 hr bus up north to Seam Reap (314 km), the more historical city. Visited an ancient temple today called Ankor Wat. It had Buddhist and Hindu monasteries dating 800 or so years. They were cut from huge stones weighing 3 tons. Elephants carried the stones in ancient times. These places had very high towers. Statues of Buddha were ubiquitous.

The landscape was much like Vietnam. Rice padi fields everywhere. Many houses are built on stilts. That prevents flooding during monsoon season. Cows were everywhere. I even saw a lady bathing a cow in the river. People here dress semi conservatively.

Tomorrow night we return via night bus. Many stars are visible as there are few street lights outside the city. We are in the middle of farmland and country.

The prophet

The prophet was a man

To him none compare

In essence so good

Of him none were scared

He prayed all  night

With swollen feet

For our forgiveness

Our mercy to seek

His smile lit

The  world blue

Abolished hate

His message true

Born an orphan

With mother  to pass

What comfort had he?

Yet mercy it lasts

He shyed away

From all idolatry

To find true God
To finally see

His people hated him

And what was his sin

Care for the orphan

To all he’d grin

Greeted all with smiles

Even enemy deep

His Love for us

To this day replete

Perchance to meet him

Oh but to try

Alas fall short

Can’t even cry

The prophet my dear

The prophet my love

Send blessings on you

From Allah above

Beg dear Allah

To dry these tears

From broken words

And enemies leers

Oh dear God

Me I can’t defend

My strength it’s gone

From loves it ends

I turn to him

The one whose true

My lord dear God

My lord so true

And beg of him

On prophet dear

Bestow your blessings

Deep and sincere

Robert Frost" The road not taken"

TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

A beautiful article about the Logic of Islam

Of Love and hate

I am so burning mad
Slapped in the face by dears

Rewarded sincerity

Perhaps not so dear

Turned away in scornful frown

I know a test for me

Who feels too weak to fight

Their vengeance cant be free

I beg of them forgive

Who would not give me face
Nor hear a word they do

Blamed of ill disgrace

And yet they turn to me

Beg me of some task

I ask entreat groan

Their  enmity it lasts

Why can we not forgive

I ask oh pitiful  man

In hate not satisfied

So fruitless a poor plan

Who is it who won’t; let go

Of fleeting life a dream

We justify our hate

Under muffled scream

If we hurt those ones

Does our pain grow less

Alas it is not so

Ever mounting stress

Perhaps if we forgave

Of those bonds break loose

Life would come more sweet

Untie that dreadful noose

We hold our own selves down

Our hate it self consumes

In binge not satisfy

Digging our own tombs

If we loved not hate

We might see some true light

Liberated free

No need for pain or fright

Let us vow to love

If only smallest show

Perchance liberty

Might help us soar and grow

Our God he  shows  true love

And we disgraceful hate

Oh pitiful humankind

Time to clean the slate

Goodbye for now

How to say good bye

It scares me to dear life

I’m not a one to quit

But thus avoid more strife

How to prove myself

To those who doubt me

To those who marginalize

To them who will not see

I’ve said it time again

Alas they merely scoff

Will not believe resolve

Doubt they’ll see me off

Ungrateful friends some are

I doubt they would me miss

No smile for journey long

Less tender goodbye kiss

I will to prove myself

If only just to me

Ill not stand down and die

Just searching to be free

Alas I know its done

The time it merely waits

What lies ahead don’t know less care

Searching for my fate

I think I may return

Dear god knows only when

Hold my head up high

Its begun not at an end

And still the pangs of doubt

Gazing to unknown

Can I say I have learnt?

In this have I grown?

A plea to be heard

A  plea to be heard

I am a Muslim
Do you  hear my name

Do you dismiss me

Accuse me of insane

I am a Muslim

I call on the same god

Will you hear me

Or simply dismiss  mad

I am not terrorist

Why must I that defend

I follow path of peace

Until its fruitful end

In prayers I bow my head

Why do you me disgrace

My faith its followed

By every color race

My lady folks they cover

To me true modesty

Are they not free to do so

Not repressed nor travesty

I pray  five times a day

Remember God sincere

Why is it to so many

So odd so strange he's dear

In many ways I’m like you

I have family so dear

I wish for peace on earth

Of me should be no fear

Why can we not sit down

Create a discourse

Perhaps you’ll understand me

A peace lover of course

My true dignity

I am a slave of god

Only seek his pleasure

 Please accept this dear true god

final part propher Joseph Yusuf AS

in the name of God

the  brother returned to Egypt a third time.
again they went before Joseph, and asked for food for their families despite their low funds and resources

Joseph asked them a question.
 "what did you do with your brother joseph wjen you were ignorant?"
they were shocked. How did this man know?They then asked and said are you Yusuf

he admitted to his identity and said that his brother benjamin was with him

the brothers now remorseful at how they treated the 2 younger ones, Benjamin and Joseph , said by god we were truly wrong, and asked forgiveness

he forgave and said thast the matter was past.  he gave his shirt and asked that it be placed on jacob's face , so that his sight is returned.  he asked his brothers to bring their family to Egypt.

Poor old jacob, still lamenting, made a statement that he could smell joseph.
His detractors called him a senile old man and accused him of returning to a pitiful state.
the messenger came and used te shirt. The vision was returned.

he then forgave his sons  and told them i knew what you knew not

They all went to Egypt together

There all bowed in prostration to Yusuf.

he exclaimed to his father."This is the realizatin of that old dream i had.


The End

i hope and pray my humble effort herein will be accepted
i beg forgiveness for any error or ommission.
if any reader would kindly give feedback,l i would greatly appreciate that

i also hope which is why i wrote this entire blog that more people will realize that we all  worship the same God, one in the same.
we call him different names.. but one he is

perhaps if we learn that small lesson, we will stop hating our neighbors and communicate more.

i wish all readers Peace and Blessings

Rami Nazzal Adam

Prophet Joseph part 2

In the name of god

So he entered prison rather than falling into adultery with the women folk.  Two others were imprisoned with him concurrently. They had strange dreams.

One dreamt that he was giving wine to his master, and the other dreamt that he carried bread on his head. Birds ate the bread.  They asked Joseph for an interpretation.

He preached to them about the oneness of God for a short while and explained that the explanation would arrive before their next meal

In his explanation ,he stated that one would be freed and serve wine to his master.  The other would be crucified and the birds would eat from his head.  He didn't specify which was which to not upset them. Both prophesies materialized subsequently.    Joseph told the one he thought would be freed to bring the story of his wrongful imprisonment to his master.  He forgot so joseph stayed in prison several years. 

the king then had a dream where he saw 7 dry and 7 green ears of corn. he also saw 7 fat cows consumed by seven thin ones. He asked his cabinet for an explanation, and none could. the freed prisoner then remembered Joseph and went to him. he related the dream of the king to Joseph, and  joseph interpreted thus.

there will be seven years of drought following 7 years of fruitful harvest, so save of what you reap for the difficult years to follow.

the king immediately sent for Joseph.  joseph AS asked before leaving prison,. what happened to the women who cut their hands.  Zulaikha was called and admitted that she was the seducer and joseph was innocent.  In fact the same zulaikha became wife to joseph as her husband had passed on. 

Joseph was thus released from prison and appointed as a minister.  A great reward he received for his patience and piety.

Well the drought did happen.  10 men then came to Egypt to ask for food for their families.  Joseh knew them to be his brothers but they did not recognize him.  He gave them 10 camel loads of grain and told them to bring their brother next time, else they would receive nothing further. This younger brother was benjamin.  he also instructed his servants to return the monies payed to him to their saddle bags so they would only find it after they return home.

They came home to their father and asked for benjamin's accompaniment to gain more foodstuff. Jacob said 'how can  trust you with benjamin when you failed my trust with Joseph".  They gave an oath that they would protect him . their father asked them to enter from many doors so as not to arouse jealousy.

So the kind father relented.  they ytravelled with benjamin.

  Joseph immediately told benjmin when they were reunited that he was in fact his brother. do not grieve at what they have done to you.  He then instructed  his servants to place the kings golden cup in benjamin's bag. the reason why will become clear.

At their intended departure, someone announced that the kings cup was stolen and the brothers were thieves.  they demanded to know what was missing and protested their innocense.  joseph asked them how shall i punish the thief at which the brothers said imprisonment.  he searched their bags and benjamins bag was searched last.  the cup was found. Joseph pretended that Benjamin was the thief.

the non redemptive brothers said that benjamin had a brother also a theief without realizing they were speaking to Joseph.
the brothers asked for one of them to be taken prisoner instead as acob could not take vthe grief of losing another son. joseph refused thus protectng benjamin. Another third brother exclaimed he would not leave Egypt till he could fulfil his vow to protect benjamin. he asked his 9 broters to go home and tell jacob that unforseeable circumstances led to benamns detention

On returning to jacob their father, the nine brters explained the theft. incident. Again poor old Jacob wept and said that patience was a beautiful mantle.  "This is surely a story you have invented as he said about Joseph before.  he went blind from grief and lamented three lost sons.

jacob asked his sons to return to Egypt and look for Joseph.

to be continued

The prophet Joseph AS in Islam

In the name of God

Most of my nonmuslim colleguues and frends don't realize all the commanalities between Islam Christianity and Judaism.   I thought I might present a short story about Joseph AS  to illuminate some, and remind others.
, especially my own self.

Firstly, a short explanation. The AS  in Arabic stands for (On him be peace) . This indicates that he is revered as a chaste servant of God, and a prophet inspired.

He was eleventh son of the prophet Jacob AS, grandson to Isaac AS, and great grandson to Abraham AS.   He was most loved by his father and that caused great jealousy among his 10 older brothers. 

He had a dream that eleven stars the sun and the moon bowed to him. His father warned him not to share this dream with his brothers ,as it would incite jealousy.

These brothers decided to kil him in order to regain their fathers favour. They recogzed that Jacob favored  Joseph.  To them, that was ridiculous as they were themajority.One brother said "do not shed blood, throw him in a well instead"

They ,thus requested of their father to allow them to take Joseph along to play, while they sheparded their flocks.  The old Jacob said that  it saddened him to part with Joseph ,and he feared the wolf might eat him if he was left unattended.  The brothers protested that they were capable of his care, and they were strong.and Jacob finally relented and allowed them to take Joseph along. 

They abused poor young Joseph greatly and cast hm into a well.  They took his shirt and stained it with animal blood to prove their intended forthcoming lie.  In the evening they returned to Jacob weeping and used his very own words against him. Father, we were racing and playing ,and the wolf ate Joseph.  Here is his bloodied shirt to prove it.  Teary eyed Jacob exclaimed that patience was his only option.

In a tafsir (explanation) Jacob commented that it must have been a very merciful wolf to kill his son, but not rip his shirt.  Poor young Joseph remained in the well for a few days.

Then a caravan came and sought water from the same well.  Joseph latched on to the pail and was rescued from the well.  They found this gorgeously handsome youth and carried him as freight to Egypt where he was sold for a paltry sum to an Egyptian.  This Egyyptian man told his wife to treat Joseph as a son . Thus he was established in Egypt.  He grew to be a strikingly handsome young man.

The wife of his master , named Zulaikha, took a desire to Joseph and tried to seduce him. Joseph ran away, but the door was locked and his shirt was ripped in the back.  At this juncture , Zulaikha's husband appeared. She connivingly changed the story into "Joseph atatcked me". A witness from Zulaikha's family said that the proof was in the shirt.  If it was ripped in front, Joseph was indeed the attacker. If it was ripped in the rear, it was Zulakha. With the shirt ripped n the back, Joseph's innocence was proven, and Zulaikha was subsequently reprimanded.

The women of the city started gossiping about Zulaikha  and her behavior towards Joseph.  She heard of this and invited the women to her home.  She passed each of them a piece of fruit and a sharp knife.  Thereafeter, she called Josph to come out.  The ladies were so dazzled by his apprearance that while they tried to cut the fruit, they cut their hands instead. They exclaimed that he was no less than an angel.  Zulaikha thus proved that she wasn't blamesworthy for her actions.

    The women tried to seduce him togerther. Joseph called on god to protect him, and thus he entered prison, which for him was much more prefarable to adultery. They threatened that if he didn't abide to their lust, they would have him imprisoned.

 Two other men entered prison with him and had strange dreams.  They asked joseph to explain the dream.

 to be continued.

economics and the science of greed

I was having a very short but intellectual discussion with a colleague, Ong.
I was really thrilled to learn that he taught Economics, a subject I have been teaching for some 17 years.
so I quickly honed down to a common topic and asked if he was a Keynesian.  He repied that he was more into Classical Economics from the micro side.  I shared with him our mutual loss that both Galbraith and Friedman had passed away in the last decade.
I asked if he thought Keynesian policies were effective.  I even cited as proof that WW2 ended the Great depression. All that military spending made the world economy rise out of the doldrums, and led to 2 economic giants, Japan and Germany.  Stll I am a critic as well, as huge national debts can lead to havoc. Canada , my beloved 2nd home, is a good example
The debt had us losing the quality of our health and education.

That was when he made the point about greed.
How much is enough. Why do we hoard a commodity like money. We both agreed it doesnt bring happiness, on the contrary misery.
There comes a point I suppose where marginal utility goes to zero.How many cars condos and countryclubs are desirable
I added that in the search for wealth, I had lost a golden opportunity to tutor my children. What a travesty for a 25 year experienced teacher.Talk about opportunity cost
What resources we have are on the verge of extinction, be they clean air ,clean water, or even innocent fun.  This equation has to lead to some disaster soon, not 2012, but perhaps mass starvatin and water wars. At what cost.  Perhaps the only benefit to some "elitists" is a larger bank balance.  What do we inherit in the end; Dust?

Friday sermon and cellular phones

I am always happy to reach another Friday in good health.
Still, one or two small ideas to share.
During Friday sermons, some people use their cellular phones and refuse to turn them off
Others, young and old alike, chat with friends.
 To my knowledge, during the sermon, we are enjoined to remain silent and pay attention.  The sermon counts for 2 Rukaa of solat and thats why we only pray 2 for zuhr on friday Jumaa, and not the usual 4.  We cant talk in prayer so we cant talk during Khutbah(sermom)
Others  feel the only the prayer is mandatory and skip or disregard the sermon.
Someone please correct me if I am, wrong.  This is just a remainder for all, especially myself.
May peace and Salams be upon all..

fever

sitting here with fever high
sore eyes hoarse throat hot head
praying oh so hard relief
face illness with such dread

but happy days are yet to come
the promise sins erased
my patience it grows stronger
only yet started that race

temptation to cry or scream
for me a waste of time
shall i grow in piety?
grow closer to the sublime

Poem on Palestine

palestine

putting on this headdress
brings thoughts flooding in
the feeling of cold death
deepest pain within

the people ive seen scattered
their lives small dreams now shattered
surely death their end
their bitter foe, their friend

have you ever heard a widows cries
and seen  orphams  so weak
searching for a vital home
a quiet place to sleep

alas of war weve had enough
and I  so weak mere complain
when will we say enough's senough
remove the hate, disdain

we the people all the same
in mirrors see my face
have not we all  too many dead
thats the real disgrace

i will not this dream eschew
you see its in my blood
oh you do you deserve the same
the peace, the love the hubb*

*hubb is love in arabic language

yasmeen

whatever possessed you
to love one as me
in that theres no sense
no logic to see

what strange thing fantastic
caused you take hold
i'm just plain old me
not special nor bold

and yet so grateful
to love one as you
a dear to share with
my troubles seem few

invitation

the door is always open
my porch light you'll find on
you can come and visit
don't have to stay too long

don't have to give me half your life
i'll only ask a smile
just to have you say hello
and sit with me a while

the door is always open
my patience wearing thin
intentions pure and clean of heart
not evil ,dark nor grim

my days ive seen so many
alas a fool i've been
perhaps I seek redeem myself
how can I begin


in life ive known  so many
true friends alas so few
my struggle sweat and tears
perhaps begin anew