Principles of Pathology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Principles of Pathology - Essay Example Clinical pathology deals with the laboratory analysis of the disease through examining the bodily fluids such as blood. Laboratory testing is a common way to diagnose a disease thus clinical pathology is commonly used in hospitals. Molecular pathology is also a similar type which examines the diseases through molecular analysis. It is usually practiced to cover those diseases that have strange causes or are genetic (Woolf, 1998, p. 17). General pathology is a wide term which describes the scientific aspect of diagnosing diseases. It is a wide term that covers all the specialist features of pathology. The scientific aspect talks about the mechanisms of the cell during the disease process. This includes the injury and the effects on the cells, along with the body’s functions to repair these cells. The rupture and infections caused to cells is investigated to diagnose the disease, and in regard to the treatment of the disease, these cells are treated and repaired. The study of general pathology includes the cellular response to diseases and injuries such as inflammation, necrosis and wound healing, etc. (Spector, 1999, p. 236). Improvements in the study of pathology and eventually in the diagnosis process of a disease can cause many improvements in the treatment of that disease as well. Diagnostic tests need to be accurate and authentic in order to control the diseases from spreading and becoming uncontrollable. In many developing countries, these tests still lack quality and thus effect the patient management. The pathological study is a specialist area in science where the performance of the diagnostic tests are judged and observed clearly. The performance of these tests will be successfully achieved if the information and method of diagnosis is not biased. Inaccuracy is an obstacle to healthcare for the people who are severely infected but

Careers in Writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Careers in Writing - Essay Example development in the 21st century, through this, we shall be able to show the current industry challenges during this period, thus meet the objectives of the study. Fashion begun in the 1826 when designers were just dress makers with no sense of high style and any form of style only came from royalty and aristocrats (Jones, 2007).. The 21th century has seen the fashion industry spread to the world over, with the modern outlook and many designers joining the industry such as the Dolce & Gabbana and Calvin Klein among many others. Many have completely misunderstood the concept of the products that the fashion industry make, to some, a mere mention of the word ‘fashion’ denotes making of clothes only and nothing else, and still they view clothe as only the silk-made, cotton-made and others that we put on as skirts or blouses, which is partially right but a narrow view of the facts; these products actually encompass several commodities (Espejo, 2010). Fashion is an art of applying design or something natural on to somebody and this is influenced by culture, social background but the art also differ from time to time. The designers work to satisfy the consumer’s needs. These people try to make clothes that are functional and good to the consumer’s eye. They make accessories such as handbags, swords, umbrellas, watches, socks, scarves, hats and many others. So the composition of fashion goes beyond clothes into accessories that accompany the made clothes. It is therefore a very wide and diverse industry (Cumming, 2004). From the designers table and subsequent manufacture, the product must be sold to the consumer; however, how they reach the consumer is the focus of this study. So the big question is â€Å"by what means does the product reach the consumer?† To answer to this question it’s important to note that some designers use two levels of marketing that is, retail and wholesale levels. Various companies that do not reach to the consumer directly place

Hamlet Ophelia Shakespeare

Hamlet Ophelia Shakespeare Hamlet The Bad Shakespeares tragedy of Hamlet is considered to be Shakespeares finest tragedy. Throughout this play Hamlet experiences a variety of emotions however it is the emotions that are portrayed in Act III that define his character. Hamlet is presented in an unfavorable light based on his dealing with Ophelia, his mother and the killing of Polonius. In Act III Hamlets true personality came through and he was portrayed as a heartless person based on his actions with various characters. Hamlets dealing with Ophelia revealed that he was dishonest and was harsh in the way he spoke with her. Ophelia had confronted Hamlet about the letters and gifts that he had given her and he lied saying I never gave you aught (3.4.98). Hamlet later embarrasses her by telling her that he once loved her however he doesnt now. Poor Ophelia is ashamed and says I was the more deceived (3.1.122). Ophelia truly believed that Hamlet had loved her however he is now denying everything, including the letters and gifts that he gave her. Of course the abuse does not stop there. Hamlet tells Ophelia to Get thee to a nunnery (3.1.123) so that she wont breed more sinners and then chastises her for acting like a whore and painting (3.1.143) her face. Hamlet rebukes her saying that God has given you one face and you make yourselves another (3.1.143-144). Ophelia was disheartened that Hamlets noble mind is here oerthrown (3.1.150). Hamlet certainly showed himself to be offensive and harsh and his actions would hurt anyones feelings. Hamlets revenge on women certainly did not stop with Ophelia. The next woman to receive Hamlets wrath is his own mother, Gertrude. Gertrude called Hamlet to her room to try and find out what was wrong with him. However, Hamlet had decided that he was going to be cruel, not unnatural (3.2.370). Hamlet was going to tell his mother what he thought of her and was going to speak daggers to her but use none (3.2.371); he was going to be malicious with his words. Hamlet proceeded to tell Gertrude that because she had married her first husbands brother so quickly the heavens were sick at the act (3.4.52). She had married such a wonderful man and when he died she married Claudius and dropped from such a lofty position. Hamlet told her that she stewed in corruption, honeying and making love (3.4.94). Gertrude was so hurt by this that she begged that he speak No more (3.4.103). Hamlet yelled at her to Confess yourself to heaven. Repent whats past (3.4.151-152). Poor Gertrude could only respond that thou hast cleft my heart in twain (3.4.158); Hamlet had broken her heart. Hamlets tone and actions were so scary and erratic to Gertrude that she asked him if Thou wilt not murder me (3.4.22)? Hamlet is definitely portraying an individual that is heartless and without soul. An individual that has a conscience, self respect or dignity would never resort to terrifying their mother. Hamlets reign of terror ended with him killing Polonius. When Hamlet had scared his mother so much she called out for help and Polonius replied from behind the curtains. Hamlet said How now, a rat (3.4.25) and stabs through the curtain not knowing who was behind it. This would appear to have been an accident however when Hamlet realized that it was Polonius he did not show any remorse. Hamlet was expecting it to be Claudius behind the curtain however when he found out that it was Polonius he said I took thee for thy better (3.4.33; he thought it was someone more important. Hamlet then proceeded to call him a wretched, rash, intruding fool (3.4.32). Hamlet just killed a man and yet shows no grief or remorse over his actions. Instead he simply tells the rat that he got what he deserved. At the end of the scene he drags Polonius out of the room without dignity or care. In conclusion, Hamlet proved to everyone that he is truly a sinful person with no respect for human life or the feelings of others. Hamlet even referred to himself as proud, revengeful, ambitious (3.1.126). Throughout Act III Hamlet lied, berated and killed for his own benefit. These are not the qualities that someone of a positive nature would possess. The dealings that Hamlet had with Ophelia, his mother and the killing of Polonius prove that Hamlet is a negative force to be reckoned with which was clearly determined in Act III.

The Left Membrane Vs. The Right Membrane :: essays papers

THE LEFT MEMBRANE VS. THE RIGHT MEMBRANE â€Å"Most people equate learning with studying, but psychologists define it more broadly, as the process by which experience or practice results in a relatively permanent change in behavior or potential behavior. This definition certainly encompasses academic learning, but it covers many other forms of learning as well: learning to turn off lights when we leave a room, learning which way to put the key into the front door lock, learning how to avoid falling down on skis, learning how to dance† (Morris & Maistro, 185). The largest part of the human brain is the cerebrum. It is divided into two haves, or hemispheres, each of which controls is opposite half of the body, The hemispheres are connected by a band of some three hundred million nerve cell fibers called the corpus callosum. Covering each hemisphere is a one-eighth-inch-thick, intricately folded layer of nerve cells called the cortex. The cortex first appeared in our ancestors about two hundred million years ago, and it is what makes us uniquely human. Because of it, we are to organize, remember, communicate, understand, appreciate, and create. The brain regulates all bodily functions. It controls our most primitive behavior; eating, sleeping, keeping warm, it is responsible for our most sophisticated activities; the creation of civilization, of music, art, science, and language. Our hopes, thoughts, emotions, and personality are all lodged-somewhere-inside there. â€Å"After thousands of scientist have studied it for centuries, the only word to describe it remains Amazing† (Ornstein & Thompson, 15). In normal people, the switch with manic depression, allows either the left or right hemisphere to be dominant during different mental tasks, with the two sides constantly taking turns. In people with manic depression, one hemisphere becomes locked into a dominant position in periods of depression while the other hemisphere is locked at times of mania. â€Å"The notion that the human brain has two halves and that the left side is associated with logical, analytical thinking while the right side is more intuitive, emotional and creative was popularized about 20 years ago, and soon became received wisdom about how the brain works† (Castro). â€Å"The new theories are also appealing to many experts because they take on a question that has divided researchers for decades. Do people have one overarching mind that spans the two hemispheres? Or are they born with two separate minds -- one on the left and one on the right -- which operate so seamlessly that the person simply does not notice that there are two?

Brazilian culture Essay

Culture refers to the norms, values and conceptions which influences an individual’s behavior. They are usually not tangible things though they greatly affect or influence the reactions or response of an individual to certain circumstances. Different communities have different cultures which are usually expressed through the various artifacts and symbols as well as ceremonies and traditions. The national culture of a place is usually expressed through the language spoken, the religion practiced, the etiquette and attitudes of the people, body language as well a literature, arts and music in such a country. The national culture of a country influences the way things and business are carried out and as such the performance of different entities within the country. Brazilian culture Brazil is located in the southern America and it is characterized by different and diverse culture which is as a result of cultural and ethnic mixing between the Africans, the native Americans and the Portuguese which occurred during the colonial era which. Other groups of people which have greatly influenced the culture of Brazil are the Spanish, Arabs, the Germans and the Italian immigrants who settled in Brazil between the 19th and the 20th century. This diverse nature of Brazilian people has given rise to a national culture which is so diverse. Portugal however was the major country which greatly influences the culture of Brazil since it was its colonizer. During the colonization period, the Brazilian people were having close contact with the Brazilians especially because Portuguese colonizers inhabited Brazil in large numbers. The slaves who were mostly black Africans also influenced greatly the formation of the Brazilian culture (Nava & Lauerhass, 2006). During the colonial period, the Portuguese wanted the Brazilians to be civilized and thus introduced Portuguese language as well as Catholicism. Portuguese is the most widely spoken language in Brazil although Spanish is also spoken in some parts. English is the second language which is spoken after Portuguese. However, the Brazilian Portuguese is different from Portuguese which is spoken in Portugal and other Portuguese speaking countries. The Brazilian Portuguese contains additional words which are coined from their native language. Most of the Brazilians can speak English though not frequently while a good number of them can hear and understand Spanish though they may not speak it. As mentioned above, Catholicism is widely practiced with most of the individuals thus being Christians. Brazil is one of the countries which have the largest number of catholic population although other beliefs like Hinduism, ayahuasca, spiritism, Judaism and Buddhism have evolved overtime. Other groups of Christianity like the Mormon Church, Methodism and Pentecostalism are also gaining root in Brazil. An annual religious celebration known as carnaval is held in Brazil for forty days and it is celebrated before Easter which marks the lent period (Thomas, 2007). The Brazilian music is composed mostly of traditional styles for example samba, frevo and forro among others. Brazil also has classical music which dates back to the 18th century. The music industry in Brazil is marked by diversity especially after Brazil become democratic in 1985 whereby hip hop music was largely adopted. Music in the past was largely influenced by social classes which existed between the rich, the middle class and the poor people. However, most of the traditional songs were neutral and did not favor any class thus unifying the country music industry. Another important feature of Brazilian culture is their literature which can be traced back to the 16th century. Portuguese explores during the colonial period wrote different poems, plays and chronicles describing Brazil. Brazilian writers started writing soon after independence in 1822 which marked the beginning of natives’ prominence in literature. They also have a folk literature tradition although little of is known internationally. This folk literature is usually done by displaying verses in a booklet format which are hanged on the wall using strings in rhymed verses. This is common in the northeast region where illiteracy level is still high (Nava & Lauerhass, 2006). As mentioned above, carnival is one of the most celebrated events and acts as symbol of the Brazilian people. During this celebration, costumed dancers as well as musicians form parades both formal and even in the streets for a period of four days. This event is celebrated nationally with carnival symbolizing national ethos especially because it depicts the dualities of life of the Brazilians which is divided among the poverty and wealth, female and males and Europeans and Africans. Football is also another highly celebrated activity in Brazil. During major soccer matches like the world cup, all national attention is diverted to soccer with most of the people wearing clothes decorated with colors of their national flag (Garibaldi de Hilal, 2006). Brazilians unlike people in the North America have little sense especially of personal space when it comes to their etiquette. The Brazilians may be found in large and also crowded areas which do not bother them. Respect is usually accorded according to the dressing code of a person. To command respect, one thus has to wear appropriately to fit his or her class as dressing is used as a symbol of class. Also, these people tend to physically expressive and they convey some of their emotional information via touching. Touching in Brazil is translated to mean friendship or concern about the welfare of the other person. Women are more inclined to touching and kissing their fellow women as a sign of greetings while men usually pat or bear hug their male counterparts. People like doctors, professors and priests among other are addressed using their titles which is them followed by their first names. Body language is also used in Brazil and is usually varied depending on the social class or standing of an individual. Domestic or house servants greet their masters usually by a limp handshake while slightly bowing the head and lowering the eyes. They address their masters with respectful you (senhora) while masters address servants as voce. Graduates and other educated persons are addressed as doctor. The Brazilians are not bothered by nudity and this is verifiable through scanty dressing that is worn during carnival (Nava & Lauerhass, 2006). In Brazil, personal relationships are valued with body language being highly used while expressing emotions. Touching is one way of expressing concern, friendship and even interest on the other people’s point of view. People who tend to keep their distance while talking to their counterparts are usually considered to be cold and uninterested. Also the national language that is Portuguese is highly valued and even those who can speak English prefer speaking in their native Portuguese language. The Brazilians also value or regard highly their symbols which include the carnival and soccer (Garibaldi de Hilal, 2006). The national culture of a country affects in a great manner the running of the national affairs as well as the businesses. While carrying out business activities in an area, it is vital to understand the culture which the community holds as this would influence workers motivation and commitment to the business as well as the community’s perception of the business. Apart from the expertise or experience of the workers and the managers, national culture contributes in largely to the growth or stagnation of a business and as such it should be treated carefully. Knowledge of the Brazilian culture would influence greatly how a business is to be carried out in this region. As mentioned above, personal relationship is very important to the Brazilians and as such, this would impact greatly to the way a business operates. While carrying out business in this region, it is vital for the managers to ensure that they create personal relationships with their workers as this would act as a motivation factor. Managers who keep their distance may be viewed as being cold or rude in Brazil and as such, understanding the culture of the Brazilians would help in managing and running a business successfully (Ferreira, et al, n. d). Brazilians also respect and adore their symbols which are mainly soccer and carnival celebrations. During this period, most of the Brazilians are committed to the celebrations and as such may not be willing to work as usual or for long hours. Understanding the value the Brazilians attach to these functions would influence how activities of a business are carried out. This is more so because these celebrations are nationally accepted as part of their culture. During the festive period, the business may be run fewer hours be closed till the festive seasons is over. Learning to value what the native Brazilians value would help in establishing an entity in this region and also earning the commitment of the workers to the business (Ferreira, et al, n. d). Conclusion For any business to be successful, it is vital to ensure that it observes and values the national culture in existence in a particular area. The culture of a community or a country determines the attitudes, behavior and response of the workers in an organization and as such, managers should ensure that they fully understand the national culture existing in a country as this is bound to influence not only the workers performance of tasks but also the running of the business. A company deemed to esteem the national culture is more likely to be successful that a company comprising of good management team but which does not respect or observe the national culture. Reference: Ferreira, M. C. et al (n. d): Organizational culture in Brazilian public and private companies. Retrieved on 2nd April 2009 from, http://ebooks. iaccp. org/ongoing_themes/chapters/ferreira/ferreira. php? file=ferreira&output=screen. Garibaldi de Hilal, A. V. (2006): Brazilian National Culture, Organizational Culture and Cultural Agreement. International Journal of Cross Cultural Management, Vol. 6 Nava, C. & Lauerhass, L. (2006): Brazil in the making: facets of national identity. ISBN 0742537579, Published by Rowman & Littlefield Thomas, V. (2007): Culture of BRAZIL. Retrieved on 2nd April 2009 from, http://www. everyculture. com/Bo-Co/Brazil. html.

Li and Fung: Growth for a Supply Chain Specialist Essay

The case study for this paper is on a Hong Kong-Based Li and Fung Limited â€Å"Li and Fung†. This paper will try to answer the question of â€Å"What would Li and Fung do to safeguard the growth of its business? How could it achieve its target turnover of US$20 billion between 2008 and 2010?† Increase the efficiencies in its global value chain process and to ensure continued growth in net income. One of the primary strategies which set the stage for strong robust growth was the implementation of intranet and extranet information technologies. The internet technology standardized systems across the organization and linked the company’s offices and manufacturing sites throughout the world, encouraging easy tracking of orders and improved quality. The extranet technology linked the company directly to the customer and enabled it to meet and sometimes even exceed customer satisfaction requirements. The strong history of the company and the implementation of information systems and technologies enabled Li & Fung to orchestrate the whole value chain process in a virtual manufacturing environment. Lifung.com, studiodirect.com, ‘electronic stock offer’ and other systems and business processes were implemented to enable the firm to further penetrate into new buyer markets and also to discover opportunities in the supplier markets. This case analyzes the effectiveness of these information and technology systems and recommends steps that could be taken by Li & Fung to draw upon its traditional strengths and explore new opportunities for future growth.

Free Essays on Krapps Last Tape

Krapp’s Last Tape Krapp’s Last Tape, a play by Samuel Beckett is a very interesting peek at one period of a man’s life, and his reflections on his past. Samuel Beckett isn’t your average playwright, and in accordance with that, I found this play to be very different and intriguing. Beckett seems to be using his character, Krapp, to illustrate his theories in existentialism, which makes for a very interesting theme and outcome to the play. The style of this play is actually one that I have never encountered before. It was a realistic person with a somewhat realistic set, but in no reality that I have ever seen. It says in the introduction to the play that absurdists, such as Beckett, â€Å"felt that the ridiculous- or absurd - nature of existence should be reflected in the dramatic elements of their plays†. I suppose that by having Krapp, the main and only character sit in a desolate spot listening to himself on a tape from thirty years ago and muse over his past is supposed to reflect the absurdity that he thinks his life has been. The style that worked for me personally because the ridiculousness that Krapp regarded his life to have full of was not only apparent in the diction that Krapp spoke, but also in the stage directions that Beckett gave the character. Even the title tells us something that we do not get in the lines of the play, which is that this is Krapp’s last tape, which most likely mea ns he will die after it is made. One almost learns more about Krapp through the stage direction of the play than through the actual dialogue that he spoke. On a personal note, I much prefer Beckett’s work in the style of a play, because I think his ideas are easier to comprehend due to his extensive and detailed stage directions. I once tried to read a novel of Beckett’s and the dialogue, along with the description of the character’s surroundings was so confusing that I actually had to stop reading it after the f... Free Essays on Krapp's Last Tape Free Essays on Krapp's Last Tape Krapp’s Last Tape Krapp’s Last Tape, a play by Samuel Beckett is a very interesting peek at one period of a man’s life, and his reflections on his past. Samuel Beckett isn’t your average playwright, and in accordance with that, I found this play to be very different and intriguing. Beckett seems to be using his character, Krapp, to illustrate his theories in existentialism, which makes for a very interesting theme and outcome to the play. The style of this play is actually one that I have never encountered before. It was a realistic person with a somewhat realistic set, but in no reality that I have ever seen. It says in the introduction to the play that absurdists, such as Beckett, â€Å"felt that the ridiculous- or absurd - nature of existence should be reflected in the dramatic elements of their plays†. I suppose that by having Krapp, the main and only character sit in a desolate spot listening to himself on a tape from thirty years ago and muse over his past is supposed to reflect the absurdity that he thinks his life has been. The style that worked for me personally because the ridiculousness that Krapp regarded his life to have full of was not only apparent in the diction that Krapp spoke, but also in the stage directions that Beckett gave the character. Even the title tells us something that we do not get in the lines of the play, which is that this is Krapp’s last tape, which most likely mea ns he will die after it is made. One almost learns more about Krapp through the stage direction of the play than through the actual dialogue that he spoke. On a personal note, I much prefer Beckett’s work in the style of a play, because I think his ideas are easier to comprehend due to his extensive and detailed stage directions. I once tried to read a novel of Beckett’s and the dialogue, along with the description of the character’s surroundings was so confusing that I actually had to stop reading it after the f...

Role of advertising in launching a New Dance school

Role of advertising in launching a New Dance school A dance school is an institution that students interested in dancing can learn more about ballet, including rehearsal. Different dance schools provide a variety of dancing styles. In order to launch a new dance school in the US, it would be necessary to analyze the market. This would include in-depth assessment of various dance schools in the U.S. market, together with products and services offered. The U.S. dance schools offer a variety of classes in hip-hop, tap, jazz and musical theatre dance.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Role of advertising in launching a New Dance school specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Julliard School Based in New York, Julliard is a private dance school managed by President Joseph Polisi. Julliard School has approximately eight hundred colleges, which offers a variety of dances. Since its establishment in 1905, the institution has managed to offer training services to over 800 students in m usic, drama and dance across the US. Researches indicate that Julliard School admission rate for students has increased from 7.6% in the year 2007 to 8.0% in 2009. However, in 2011 Julliard School admitted 5.6% of applicants. The institution has various collections including orchestras, chamber music, and jazz. Julliard School is focused on raising $300,000,000 to enable it sustain the market as regards to performing arts in the new decade. Julliard advertises its services and products in various media for rising awareness, including journals such as those published by Random House and Norton. The New York Public Library also advertises services offered by Julliard School. Nevertheless, the institution has its website that assist in advertising services at the global level that is, https://www.juilliard.edu/. The adverts of this organization normally target undergraduate and graduate students. Ballet San Jose Ballet San Jose is a dance organization that is currently situated in Cali fornia, US. The institution was established with an aim of providing San Jose region with professional skills in dancing that is, in a way that honours the vision of various artists. The ballet offered by this school also aims at meeting the artistic standards, as well as fulfilling cultural requirements of the society it serves. The advert made by this institution normally targets a wider audience. By the year 2007, Ballet San Jose had over 100 traditional and contemporary dances (Giddens 78). Directed by Dennis Nahat, the institution has dancers from various countries, including the U.S., Japan, Canada, Vietnam, and France, among others. Presently, Ballet San Jose has over 450 students. The organization has for long targeted children at risk and young audiences. It advertises its services and products through various media such as New York Times and San Francisco Chronicle. In addition, a number of its advertisements are done via its official website.Advertising Looking fo r essay on advertising? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Roland Dupree Dance Academy Ronald Dupree Dance Academy is situated in Hollywood, US. It has attracted dancers across the world owing to the school’s variety of instructors from various fields including film, television and stage. In partnership with Mary Jean, Roland succeeded to open Dupree Casting that specializes in movie and television dancing. Currently, Roland Dupree Dance Academy has invested in child acting facility referred to as the Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts. Ronald Dupree Dance Academy generally advertises its events and services through the New York Times since they believe it is the most effective medium of advertisement. Strength and weakness Although newspaper and journals are commonly used as mediums of advertisement, they are currently phased out by the internet. Many organizations are presently finding it more resourceful to advertise thei r services via websites since many customers are now accessing it (Dave 12). One of the strengths of advertising services through the media is that they create awareness in the public hence increasing the profitability of the organization. One of the weaknesses is that advertising can be ineffective in case the correct medium is not used. This would amount to losses through the costs of advertising. Dave, Evans. Social Media Marketing: An Hour a Day. Indianapolis: Wiley Publishing, 2010. Print. Giddens, Anthony. The Consequences of Modernity. Malden: Blackwell Publishers, 2009. Print.

An offer can be made in oral form, written form or conduct

An offer can be made in oral form, written form or conduct Disclaimer: This work has been submitted by a student. This is not an example of the work produced by our Law Essay Writing Service . You can view samples of our professional work here . An offer can be made in oral form, written form or conduct Question: How is an offer terminated? Please provide examples and case law in order to support your answer. Offer, Acceptance and Consideration are the three main components to form a legally binding contract. And before any contracts are being made, there must be reasonable and proper means of communication between parties. An offer is a definite and specific promise made by the offeror to an offeree of which there is an intention to be bound on specific terms if it is accepted. An offer can be made in oral form, writing form or by conduct, noted that it should not be vague but definite. In order to terminate an offer, there are five ways to do so which will be shown below: 1. Rejection There are two forms of rejection to an offer. The first form is that the offer is simply rejected by the offeree for not willing to be bound by the terms of the offer through communication, this will permanently destroy the offer. The offere e cannot change his/her mind afterwards and purport to accept the offer again. For example, Jean wanted to buy Peter’s car and offered him a price of $32,000. Peter then replied to say that $32,000 was below his expectation. In this case, Peter had rejected Jean’s offer and the offer no longer existed. Therefore, Peter could not change his mind and tell Jean that it was a mistake not to accept the offer. But then he can now sell the car to Jean by making a new offer, and Jean is free to accept it, contract will therefore formed. The second form of rejection to an offer is that the offeree rejects the offer made to him/her by a counter offer. This counter offer will destroy the original offer and introduces a new offer. In this case the original offeror may accept or deny this new offer. According to Hyde v Wrench (1840), where â€Å"A†, the offeror offered to sell an estate at a price of 1000 pounds, â€Å"B†, the offeror replied that he was willing to pa y 950 pounds only. The offer was refused, but afterwards, â€Å"B† sought to accept the initial offer. It was held that the offer has already terminated by the counter offer of 950 pounds, therefore no contract could be made at the time â€Å"B† tried to accept the initial offer as it no longer existed. However, it should be noted that a mere inquiry about the terms of offer to make the bargain more favourable, while he is willing to accept the offer is not a counter offer nor rejecting the offer. This principle lied in Stevenson v. McLean (1880), where â€Å"A† offered to sell iron to â€Å"B† for cash. â€Å"B asked if they could have 4 months credit. He has no intention to reject the offer made to him. 2. Revocation The offeror is free to withdraw or revoke from an offer at anytime given that the offer has not been accepted by the offeree. Given that revocation will not be effective until it is communicated to the offeree. Communication is not necessa rily made by the offeror himself provided that the offeree has been brought to notice of the revocation through a reliable source.

A Significant Event in My Life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

A Significant Event in My Life - Essay Example Towards the end of the year, we received an assignment which was meant to be important for our final grade. I decided that I would complete this work on time and put in all my strength to complete it in the best possible manner. I planned on how I would complete the work but things did not work according to my planning. I fell ill for a week which made matters worse. I could not complete my assignment on time and I did not understand what explanation I would provide to my teacher. On the day of submission, I reached school and I was very confused about how I was supposed to handle this situation. I eventually decided to copy my classmate’s assignment and submit it. I wrote the assignment and when the teacher asked for it, I submitted the work. The teacher analyzed our assignments and she found out that I had cheated. This led to the creation of a very dreadful situation for me. The teacher insulted me in class and I was very embarrassed. She sent my complaint to the principal and my parents were called for a meeting. I was scolded by the principal as well as my parents and a warning letter was issued to me. I realized my mistake and I decided that I would never indulge in such an act again. This incident left a strong impact on me. I deeply regretted my mistake and I understood that I committed a wrong act. I promised myself that I would never commit such a mistake again. I also made up my mind that I would always be regular in my studies and complete my work on time. I decided to organize myself and learn proper time management skills. I learned my lesson and I realized that a person should never opt for the wrong means.  

Change in management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Change in management - Essay Example They will have equal opportunities for progress. They will just have to follow certain procedures and policies designed by the management and I assure you that these policies and procedures will be friendly for the employees. I want to know all the concerns of the employees and I am sure that my policies and procedures will be accommodative. I will only prove to be a strict manager if all the codes and conducts defined by the management are not followed. Discipline is required everywhere to lead a healthy life and to perform all the functions appropriately. You are always welcome to come to me to discuss all your problems. There are certain suitable ways with the help of which, you can perform all organizational functions successfully with less chances of making errors and you have to understand this aspect to work as a successful functional employee of the firm. I will conduct weekly meetings to assess company’s progress along with employees’ progress. For this purpose , a board will be there that will be accountable for bringing forth all the problems and concerns related to work and employees. The employees will be restricted to work according to the company’s set procedures and policies. The employees will have chances to win bonuses and allowances for their work.

The German Interior Minister Otto Schily announced that immigration Essay

The German Interior Minister Otto Schily announced that immigration rules would be relaxed to facilitate the entry of Indian sof - Essay Example Nevertheless, in the previous year German provided 10,000 green cards to technology professionals, among them being Indians. Though such an action would pose many security threats, German was ready to improve on their security so that no terrorist can pose as a soft ware expert to be issued with a visa. However, German portrays a good example of immigration and trade services globally, with host countries having to relax on some of the restrictive visa issues in order to gain a competitive advantage as other countries. However, one of the main issues that worry citizens in many of the hoist countries is likelihood of immigrants causing job shortage in the host country. Though India is a developing country, its successive growth in information technology and software is attributed to the fact that they outsource their services to multinational firms globally, but at a reliable cost. However, the United States remains the major country that receives a majority number of software expert ise from India. According to BBC news (2000), the United States had already proposed that it would increase the experts’ visas to 200,000, this shows that the rate of demand for the Indian software expertise is very high. Therefore, this third world country is has a comparative advantage in terms of software expertise. ... that has prevailed across the world, where countries mainly the developing countries have to contend with trade in services, as their skilled manpower is lured my developed countries, in the form of relaxed immigration rules and other incentives. Trade in services and immigration Trade and immigration are becoming connected since, for instance, trading in goods and services, and investing is expanding due to the low costs of globalization, transport, and availability of information. The result of this is an increased urge to study, work, and travel, or even to live abroad. When people move across borders and supply services in another country, this is regarded as trade. According to Pecoud (2007, p. 14), â€Å"trade and migration are interconnected in a globalized economy and that pressures towards liberalization may one day promote a narrow trade.† The increase of immigrants in developing countries has greatly increased with time. Immigration of skilled labor is encouraged by the developed countries and restrictive measures are minimized in order to enable these experts to venture into the country. Indeed, various benefits accrue to developed countries, with the major one being the use of immigrating human capital to advance their production capacity (Kuznar, n.d, p. 12). The immigration promotion of skilled labor is as a result of lack of a skilled workforce in these countries or the need to compete with other countries. If country A has more labor than country B, then it is only wise for country A to send labor to country B, via immigration, which is a direct method, or indirectly through exporting of goods. Thus, the movement of goods can substitute for the movement of people to various countries. In developed countries, prices of goods and services, as well as

Critical Thinking Questions Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Critical Thinking Questions - Coursework Example a teacher leader, the principles which one should use include leading with values, people centered, achievement oriented and managing tensions and dilemmas (Day and Harris, 2012). Changes are of different categories, and they all depend with the teacher leader who wants to implement them. In this circumstance, implementing a permanent change to the institutions will be more beneficial in making the institutions realize their visions. It will involve making necessary adjustment, which matches the need of the institutions. In order to ensure that this becomes successful, it will need evaluation of the areas which needs to be improved (Reeves, 2008). It will also need assessment at ensuring that the critical areas are taken into consideration. Implementation of change begins with assessment of the areas which needs to be changed. As an educational leader, you need to involve all parties including students and other fellows in ensuring that all goes well. This will entail working on programs which will bring change to all stakeholders (Danielson, 2007). However, implementation of change is different from managing change since implementation deals with introducing changes whereas management of change involve making necessary adjustment in the process of already existing

The Devils Highway Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Devils Highway - Essay Example Most of these emigrants get to the US through illegally crossing the border. Crossing over the Mexican border has not always been illegal though. During the 19th Century and the beginning of the 20th century, Mexicans were allowed to cross by the American government as they provided labor which grew the economy. In fact, they were so essential that the government would entice them with some allowances, to top up their salaries. The 1920s depression however saw an end to this and a barrier was constructed across the border to stop the crossing over. Nowadays, Mexicans wanting to access a better life in the US, have to illegally cross the border and survive the ruthless border patrol, unimaginable transportation conditions and not forgetting the one of harshest deserts in the world (Borjas 58). The Devil’s Highway Journalist Luis Alberto Urrea shares with us such an occasion in his book, The Devil’s Highway. The book describes the horrifying ordeals of some 26 Mexicans in their journey across the border. The group manages to cross over, only to find themselves in the Sonora Desert, or as others call it, the devils highway. In the aftermath, 14 of the emigrants die, making the highest group of deaths while crossing the border in history. Many of the deaths result from exposure to the extreme desert heat while those who survive are near death themselves. Urrea also details of all the mechanisms that facilitate the border crossing in the region, from the coyotes to the vigilante border patrols (Urrea 78). The story can be described as nothing less of an international tragedy. It is a very vivid description of the horrors that Mexican immigrants undergo as they are smuggled into Arizona. In comparison to other writers of his age, Urrea is very daring from the way he vividly and fearlessly tells it from all sides of the story with brutal honesty, even through the eyes of the border patrol officers. For example, in spite of their Wild West and ruthless na ture, one cannot help but empathize with the situations of the border patrol officers. Urrea also tells this tale with horrifying descriptions, but at the same time, shows compassion to these victims. The story is thrilling and fascinating while being tragic and horrifying at the same time. It is heartbreaking to learn of how some poor Mexicans fall prey to the promises of smugglers in the pursuit of some greener pastures, only to end up dead or in near-death. Some do not even make it to the other side as the coyotes betray them to die in the desert while they part with the money. Even those who complete the journey cannot be termed as lucky as they meet with a society that does not approve of their arrival, and a government that constantly seeks to flush them out and expel them. How the migration matters to us The issue of Mexican migration affects us all as the youth and citizens of America. As much as it pains to admit it, illegal emigrants bring more harm than benefit to the cou ntry, the biggest being the crossing over of drugs. In 2004, for example, 90% of the cocaine sold in America was smuggled by illegal emigrants through the US-Mexico border. Also, many of those caught attempting to cross over have been found in possession of such drugs, which they were meant to sell in the US. Another disadvantage of the emigrants is the increase of crime associated with them. Many of those who manage to cross over have criminal pasts from their country origin. These individuals enter the US then join or start up some criminal gangs like the

FAMILY LAW Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 2

FAMILY LAW - Essay Example The main setback identified in this area is due to the fact that the national criminal justice system does not consider domestic abuse or violence as criminal activities, and fails to provide adequate protection for women against such offences1. To compound the misery, there is considerable bureaucratic apathy among the enforcement authorities, such as the police, prosecutors and judges. These persons have been found to be unwilling to identify the causes of domestic violence. Therefore, the enforcement of laws against domestic violence has not been effective or constructive. Most law enforcing authorities do not view domestic violence as a serious criminal issue, and consider it to be a private problem. Their belief is that women have to deal with the problem of domestic violence and arrive at a solution to it by themselves. Most women believe that the criminal justice system acts as a barrier to their seeking the court’s intervention to eliminate violence. Several international bodies claimed that domestic violence is a violation of human rights. They also demanded that human rights must be made applicable to domestic violence. Human rights treaties have to develop effective instruments to address the problem of do mestic violence2. Activities such as physically hitting or slapping or a threat to cause harm to the victim or child of the victim, threatening to commit suicide or demeaning the victim verbally or physically, restricting the victim in visiting his or her friends or family member would constitute crimes of domestic violence3. Domestic violence is distinct from other types of assault. It should be dealt with separately with a separate dedicated mechanism for handling of cases; and there should be high levels of prosecutions and punishments. Only then will it be possible to eliminate domestic violence from the lives of women. The effects of domestic violence are much higher than that of physical assaults. Psychological damage is a very common

The Devils Highway Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Devils Highway - Essay Example Most of these emigrants get to the US through illegally crossing the border. Crossing over the Mexican border has not always been illegal though. During the 19th Century and the beginning of the 20th century, Mexicans were allowed to cross by the American government as they provided labor which grew the economy. In fact, they were so essential that the government would entice them with some allowances, to top up their salaries. The 1920s depression however saw an end to this and a barrier was constructed across the border to stop the crossing over. Nowadays, Mexicans wanting to access a better life in the US, have to illegally cross the border and survive the ruthless border patrol, unimaginable transportation conditions and not forgetting the one of harshest deserts in the world (Borjas 58). The Devil’s Highway Journalist Luis Alberto Urrea shares with us such an occasion in his book, The Devil’s Highway. The book describes the horrifying ordeals of some 26 Mexicans in their journey across the border. The group manages to cross over, only to find themselves in the Sonora Desert, or as others call it, the devils highway. In the aftermath, 14 of the emigrants die, making the highest group of deaths while crossing the border in history. Many of the deaths result from exposure to the extreme desert heat while those who survive are near death themselves. Urrea also details of all the mechanisms that facilitate the border crossing in the region, from the coyotes to the vigilante border patrols (Urrea 78). The story can be described as nothing less of an international tragedy. It is a very vivid description of the horrors that Mexican immigrants undergo as they are smuggled into Arizona. In comparison to other writers of his age, Urrea is very daring from the way he vividly and fearlessly tells it from all sides of the story with brutal honesty, even through the eyes of the border patrol officers. For example, in spite of their Wild West and ruthless na ture, one cannot help but empathize with the situations of the border patrol officers. Urrea also tells this tale with horrifying descriptions, but at the same time, shows compassion to these victims. The story is thrilling and fascinating while being tragic and horrifying at the same time. It is heartbreaking to learn of how some poor Mexicans fall prey to the promises of smugglers in the pursuit of some greener pastures, only to end up dead or in near-death. Some do not even make it to the other side as the coyotes betray them to die in the desert while they part with the money. Even those who complete the journey cannot be termed as lucky as they meet with a society that does not approve of their arrival, and a government that constantly seeks to flush them out and expel them. How the migration matters to us The issue of Mexican migration affects us all as the youth and citizens of America. As much as it pains to admit it, illegal emigrants bring more harm than benefit to the cou ntry, the biggest being the crossing over of drugs. In 2004, for example, 90% of the cocaine sold in America was smuggled by illegal emigrants through the US-Mexico border. Also, many of those caught attempting to cross over have been found in possession of such drugs, which they were meant to sell in the US. Another disadvantage of the emigrants is the increase of crime associated with them. Many of those who manage to cross over have criminal pasts from their country origin. These individuals enter the US then join or start up some criminal gangs like the

Of Morality and Spirituality Essay Example for Free

Of Morality and Spirituality Essay The moral sacred Philippines started from a dream, and now that it continues to progress it can be one good evidence that as long as someone believes in an idea, it can be possible. As long as its aim is for the goodness of the citizens, it can be a reality. This concept does not want to create a world of perfection but rather a world of morality and spirituality. That world is where we can clearly distinguish the right ones from the bad. It is where we can not only think about ourselves but also the community, the government, and the nation. This dream can all be possible if we just go and believe that the land where we stand can be a better habitat of mankind. From Genesis 1:27, God created mankind in His own image. This verse proves that each of us is spiritual at heart. We just have to go and find the path through our hearts. We are created in His likeness which gives us the realization that all living things have something good in the inside. If we believe, make something to make this work, the moral sacred Philippines will make sense. A. WRITING AS A SOCIAL ACT The event connects with how writing can be a social act. In the said event, one does not only think about himself but also for the people around him. As for writing, a writer does not only write for him or for him to understand but also for his readers and audience. You write alone, but you always write for others. Readers matter. Once a writer sets his or her thoughts to any medium, whether paper, blog, status update, there is the potential for audience interaction. Ideas and creativity are created outside ourselves. Writers can never be more creative without the experiences and thoughts the people have. They continue to interact with people. Writing is a social act. Writers choose to see the beauty and brilliance of the world around them. Writing is nothing without the world and mind that surrounds them. B. WRITING AS A MORAL ACT Morality and spirituality is what the event focuses on. As for writing, writers do not only write everything that flows from their thinking, he must be careful. Something that anyone who writes words of any kind would do well to remember. Words have their moral consequences. The responsibility is particularly great for writers who deal with spiritual issues. Every word they write leaves its mark upon their soul and upon the souls of those who read their work. Their words may become sacraments, visible signs of an invisible grace, or they may turn to poison and ashes. It may signify the abyss or nothing at all. Writers must strive against mediocrity in one’s work, aiming always higher for lucidity of thought and beauty of expression with still being careful with the words they use. Every piece they make has an effect in this world. They are part of our moral conversation as a society. They weigh in. The creation of literature worthy not only its high artistic calling but of his stature as a creature created in the image and likeness of God.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus In order to ensure that the outcome of the pregnancy is the best for mother and baby, a routine is undertaken which is embraced by the term Ante Natal care. Ante natal care is simply caring for the mothers before labour and delivery and also preparing the mothers fully for delivery because of safe motherhood. This can only be achieved by if mother is seen early preferably before the 10th week and at regular intervals thereafter. In this essay, I will be discussing one of the factors which are (GDM) gestational diabetes mellitus which affects the normal physiological pregnancy state. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as carbohydrate in tolerance resulting in hyperglycaemia of variable severity with its onset and first recognition during pregnancy. Insulin is an essential hormone required for glucose transfer into the muscle and adipose tissue cells. For women with diabetes mellitus, pregnancy can present some particular changes for both mother and the child. If the woman who is pregnant has diabetes, it can cause early and very large babies (Macrosomia). Management of pregnant mothers with diabetes needs very firm and accurate control even in advance of having pregnancy. There are question whether the condition is natural during pregnancy or not. Gestational diabetes is caused when the insulin receptors do not function properly, due to pregnancy related factors such as the presence of human placental lactogen that interfere with susceptive insulin receptors. Gestational diabetes affects 3-10% of pregnancies, depending on the population studied, so may be a natural occurrence (Littleton, 2005,). During a normal pregnancy, many physiological changes occur such as increased hormonal secretions that influence blood glucose levels, such as glucose – drain to the fetus, slowed emptying of the stomach, increased excretion of glucose by the kidneys and resistance of cells to insulin. Moving further, I as the ante-natal clinic nurse will first try to collect as much information as I can from the patient. During her 12th week of gestation, Mrs. B came for her ante natal case booking. She was already 3 months and this was her initial visit to the ante natal clinic. I booked Mrs. B by obtaining subjective data from her. I as the nurse, firstly I offered her seat so that she can sit in level with me. After that I took her personal history after greeting the client. She was feeling ease and welcomed. I communicated with her in English because she was able to understand and I also kept in mind that level of education might be low so I used simple interpretations of facts. Her first impression was very good because she was a Primip-gravida and she looked happy and relaxed. Her physical characteristics were good, because (posture) she was sitting comfortably and even she was working normally without any problem (gait). She looked health during her first visit to the clini c. After this observation during interview, I had taken her full personal history. Her full name is Mrs. B. She was born on 15th of April, 1989 at Labasa Hospital. Her age now is 24 years. Just because she is Fijian, I did not ask for her father’s name, nevertheless, she is married to a Fijian, 25 year old businessman. She is a primary school teacher. Her husband’s name is Mr. C and they reside in Namara, Labasa and both of them are Methodist. Both have attended tertiary institutions and are well educated. She gave her husband’s name and phone number for emergency purpose. Secondly, I obtained Mrs. B family history. Not much information was given by Mrs. B because her parent and grandparents were of Fijian origin and they lived in village. Her mother had diabetes only. Thirdly, I took the medical history of Mrs. B, according to her she is not having any medical problems and she was never admitted before for any illness. Mrs. B is only allergic to penicillin anti biotic. In her social history, it is interesting to know that this would be their first child in the family, so no case of negligence or overcrowding in the home. They both, husband and wife earn enough for their upcoming family. She is not a teenager and has a good age for first child bearing. She is physically, psychologically and financially strong to mother a child. They live in a concrete and iron roofing house and they reside in an industrial area. They both neither smoke nor consume alcohol or drugs. She did not have a surgical history. She did not have any abdominal, pelvic, cardiac surgeries or either injuries. I did not ask anything about her previous obstetric history because this was her first pregnancy. As a nurse, I asked her about any abortionsmiscarriage but Mrs. B said no because they used family planning devices before so she did not had any abortions and miscarriage. There was no gynaecological history for Mrs. B. Her menstrual history, she has menses which last f or 3 days- 4 days. She was fourteen years when she had had her first menses (menarche). Just because Mrs. B was 12 weeks pregnant, I did not ask her about on set of movement but calculated her expected date of delivery (EDD). Her last menses occurred on 17th of February until 20th of February. It is a four days regular flow according to Mrs. B. So her expected date of delivery would be seventeen plus seven and add 9 months from indicated date, so that will be on 24th day of November. After this assessment, I did the physical examination of Mrs. B. Firstly, I took Mrs. B height and it was 168cm, her weight was 62.5kg and to notice difference in her weight, it had to be taken on every visit. Mrs. B urine test was done for protein and glucose, mid stream specimen was taken and this was done in all the visits to get the results from laboratory. Her blood pressure was taken. Blood test was also done for emergencies and surgical procedures. As a nurse, we also checked for edema. This may not be seen during initial visit but as pregnancy progress it can be noticed. All this assessments and examinations were done by two nurses since I had to have a female nurse since I was interviewing a female client and received a lot of information about Mrs. B and her health. This also built a foundation of a trusting relationship. In addition to this, a goal of antenatal care is equally important because this acts as guidance in caring for the antenatal case holistically. Firstly, the aim that is to monitor the progress of pregnancy in order to support the maternal health and normal fetal development and to ensure that the mother reaches the end of pregnancy in a healthy state and delivers a healthy baby. Nurses and midwives are the best people to detect the problem early, diagnose it and treat the problem before progression of labour and delivery. More of our aims include identification of women at risk. As a nurse you must educate clients at high risk pregnancy on their medications, follow-up, nutrition and exercise, so that they can get a positive result. To assess levels of health by taking a detailed history and to after appropriate screening test. Ask to identify risk factors by talking accurate details of past and present obstetric, medical, family and personal history. Another aim is to provide a good opportunity for the women and her family to express and discuss any concerns they might have about the current pregnancy and previous pregnancy loss, labour, birth or pueperium.. Lastly, the most vital is the delivery of the healthy term infant without signs of distress or any abnormality. Furthermore, the nurse’s role independently in managing for the gestational diabetes mellitus women are broad and as follows. A nurse must carry out a proper procedure when dealing with a GDM mother so that she and the infant’s risk of complications are reduced. Firstly, a nurse must obtain baseline data from the patient. Secondly, I carried my nursing assessment on Mrs. B, I took her vital signs. This was very much important because an increase in blood pressure and weight may be a sign of PIH, which is a frequent complication associated with diabetes. After that I asked Mrs. B about her gestational age because it assists in managing pregnancy and planning timing and method of delivery. Apart from this ultrasound examination was also carried out on Mrs. B for abnormalities, confirm age of gestation, and monitor the size and weight of fetus. Uterine size, fetal activity, fetal heart rate evaluate and reflect fetus status and well. Other intervention which I carried out independently was to monitor blood sugar level frequently, as this was checked more often than usual according to the doctor. Also I made sure that each time when checking the blood sugar level a proper record of the result and presented to the health care team for evaluation and modification of the treatment. Many may need extra insulin during pregnancy to reach their blood sugar targets since insulin is not harmful to the baby. During her one of the clinic, Mrs. B was examined routinely and was found that there was glucose in the urine and the blood system level was above targets. I gave insulin therapy to control the sugar further. Also I advised on the meals, to cut down sweets, eat three small meals and one to three snacks a day, maintain proper meal times and include balanced fibre intake in the form of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Mrs. B attended her clinic when she was 24 weeks, after examining Mrs. B, her blood glucose level was not in control as a result. So we had to admit Mrs B to the ante natal ward for insulin therapy. The aim here was to stabilize the blood glucose level. Mrs. B was admitted. I explained her about the ward, orientated about the ward protocols, meal hours and the special diet which she will have. The first 2 to 3 days, 4 point was done to find out if patient should be adequately controlled on diet, if not then insulin was recommended. Mrs. B was supposed to have 4 points procedure, so I kept her on nil by mouth post midnight. Blood specimen one was collected at 7am, then patient to have breakfast. Specimen 2 was taken at 9.30am. Specimen 3 was taken at 1.30pm and 4th one was taken at 6.30pm. Moreover, the health care team as a whole had collaborative role towards care of the pregnant mother who was reaching 26 week gestation. Effective ante natal care for women with diabetes mellitus should be provided by a multidisciplinary team in a joint diabetes and antenatal clinic (Fraser, 2009). The woman is seen often as required in order to maintain good glycaemia control. Treatment depends on the blood glucose levels. The midwife should involve both the diabetic nurse or (midwife) specialist and dietician in dietary interventions. Mrs. B was advised by the dietician about nutrition; ideally diabetic women who anticipate pregnancy will follow a prescribed well balanced dietary regimen before conception and will be in a state of good metabolic control. The dietician advised Mrs. B on the caloric requirement for the normal weight client is 35 calories per kilogram. Doctors advised Mrs. B on insulin treatment. Physiotherapist advised Mrs. B on importance of moderate exercise during pregnancy example walking, swimming because it helps lower blood glucose level this decrease need for insulin. Also Mrs. B was advised by the doctor on other medical management such as oral metformin medications. Nurses should also monitor blood glucose on a regular basis throughout pregnancy. So counselling before pregnancy (for example about preventive folic acid) and multi disciplinary management are important for good pregnancy outcome. Moreover, highlighting the reasons for the interventions carried out gives an idea that why this particular nursing intervention on Mrs. B who was diagnosed as gestational diabetes. Firstly as a nurse, I identified Mrs. B at GDM risk. It was better that her problem was identified earlier or else if she would not have been attending her clinics there would have been increased risk for hyperglycaemia, infection, pregnancy induced hypertension and also hydramnios. Since Mrs. B was diabetic, the infant would have been at high risk of macrosomia and also congenital abnormalities. All this would have lead to difficulties in vaginal deliveries. Secondly, baseline vital signs, height, weight should be monitored in every subsequent visits. Blood pressure was taken when I asked Mrs. B to lie in a left lateral position so that an accurate reading was achieved. Mrs. B was also monitored by (sonography) ultrasound examining subsequently during her visits for fetal abnormalities, confirmation of g estational age and also to monitor size and weight of fetus. Activity (kicking) fetal movement was also maintained by nurses to find that fetus remains active. Collaboratively, urinalysis, culture and sensitivity were done to detect asyptomatic bacteriuria, a precursor to event pyelonephritis, to which the diabetes is especially prone. Midwives also performed a fundal examination, initially and subsequently atleast once a trimester for Mrs. B to detect any vascular changes accompanying diabetes. Mrs. B was also advised by the dietician on nutrition and hydration to maintain blood glucose targets to normal. Client knowledge about self monitoring by the midwives allows the development of an appropriate teaching plan to ensure compliance and minimize risk of complications. Mrs. B was also educated on support system and services because of the high risk of the pregnancy so that necessary support system and assistance can be obtained. Psychosocial and economic factors with special consid eration to the parental stress evoked by the high risk pregnancy was explained to her so that she does not take too much stress which can lead to high risk pregnancy, research has shown that gestational diabetes experience more stressful responses than pre gestational diabetics for all aspects of the medical regimen (Perry, (2006). 4 points procedure was done on her following the glucose tolerance test for the proceeding of insulin therapy. After insulin therapy Mrs. B was discharged and called for her clinic subsequently to detect whether blood glucose was maintained or not. During her visits, the midwives performed abdominal examination, vaginal examination and fundal palpation to establish and affirm that fetal growth is consistent with gestational age during progression of pregnancy. This was done to detect fetal growth, fetal lie, fetal presentation etc. When Mrs. B was 35 weeks, during her clinic it was found that the blood glucose level was maintained, there was no glucose in urine and no other signs as before due to gestational diabetes two which was medically controlled. To sum up, later on during her 37 weeks of gestation Mrs. B was having labour pain and she was rushed to hospital with all her belongings needed together with the babies’ clothes and other things. She was admitted direct to the labour ward in the preparation room. fetal heart rate monitoring and vaginal examination was done. She was 3-4cm dilated and was taken to first stage room for further assessment on partogram and vaginal examination. The following morning she gave birth to a healthy term infant without signs of distress and or hypoglycaemia. Therefore, our strength was that we collaboratively, the health care team identified the patient at risk on an early stage that is why there was no complication during or after delivery. And our weakness lies if all the health care team do not identify high risk of pregnancy at an early stage therefore, early booking is equally very important. (Approx words:2500) References Brown, D., Edward, H. (2005). Medical-Surgical Nursing: Assessment Management of Clinical Problem. Australia: Elsevier. Crisp, J., Taylor, C. (2013). Potter Perry’s Fundamentals of nursing (4th ed.). Australia: Elsevier. Fraser, D, M., Cooper, M, A. (2009). Myles Textbook for Midwives (15th ed.). Australia: Elsevier. Perry, L. (2006). Maternity Nursing (7th ed.). Australia: Elsevier. Mc Kinney, E., James, S., Murray, S., Ashwill, J. (2005). Maternity Child Nursing (2nd ed.). Australia: Elsevier. Littleton, L, Y., Engebretson, A. (2005). Maternity Nursing Care. USA: Elsevier. 1

Symbols and Symbolism in Conrads Heart of Darkness Essay -- Heart Dar

Symbols and Symbolism in Conrad's Heart of Darkness      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Symbolism has long been a tool of the storyteller, finding its origins in the folklore of our earliest civilizations. In more recent years, however, symbolism has taken on a new role, forming the skeleton upon which the storyteller builds the tales of his or hers thoughts and adventures. Knowing the power of this element, Joseph Conrad uses symbols to help the reader explore dark interiors of men. The symbols become a vehicle that carry the audience from stop to stop, the ride becoming an evaluation of the darkness contained inside the hearts of mankind. Through the use of Dark Africa as an overpowering symbol, Conrad's Heart of Darkness tells a story that evaluates man's tendencies to fall back on barbaric methods when not protected by civilization.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   As Marlow proceeded through the jungle towards the uncivilized world of Kurtz, he said, of the men they passed , "They passed me within six inches, without a glance, with that complete, deathlike indifference of unhappy savages"(Conrad, 80).   Marlow's advancements into the jungle, acted parallel with my discovery: In our deepest nature, all men are savages. Marlow connects with the very backbone in which constitutes Conrad's theme "The shade of the original Kurtz frequented the beside of the hollow sham, whose fate it was buried presently in the mold of primeval earth.   But both diabolic love and the unearthly hate of the mysteries it had penetrated fought for the possession of that soul satisfied with primitive emotions, avid of lying fame, of sham distinction, of all the appearances of success and power"(... ...his goals have not been met; he died and so did his society.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Marlow and Kurtz could be considered as two conditions of human existence, Kurtz representing what Man could become if left to his own intrinsic devices outside protective society. Marlow, then, representing a pure untainted civilized soul who has not been drawn to savagery by a dark, alienated jungle. According to Conrad, the will to give into the uncivilized man does not just reside in Kurtz alone. Every man has inside himself a heart of darkness. This heart is drowned in a bath of light shed by the advent of civilization. No man is an island, and no man can live on an island without becoming a brutal savage. Inside his heart lies the raw evil of untamed lifestyles. Work Cited Conrad, Joseph. Heart of Darkness, New York: Dover, 1990.

William Faulkners A Rose for Emily Essay -- William Faulkner Rose E

William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" â€Å"A Rose for Emily† by William Faulkner is set in a small Southern town during the post-Civil War era. The story revolves around the strange and tragic events of Miss Emily Grierson’s life. At first glance, Emily seems like a lonely woman with little self-confidence and low self-esteem that seems to stem from her upbringing by her father. There seemed to be some kind of abuse by her father and the fact that she had seemed to have lived such a sheltered life. She was brought up thinking that nobody was good enough for her. Her father had even shunned away his own family. Emily was turned into quite an odd character due to this type of upbringing. Emily’s love was controlled by her father, a man that was respected and of high class in the community. After her father passed away, Emily tried to act as if it never happened, and she was actually going to keep her father in the house. It was though she did not want to be alone and she was willing to live with her father’s corpse for company. The town’s people almost had to resort to law and force the issue when Emily finally broke down and came to the reality that her father had to be buried. Emily was a reclusive woman hopelessly clinging onto the ways of the Old South but the town around her was growing with the times. One day when Emily meets a Yankee, Homer Barron, and falls in love with him. Homer was part of the construction company that was responsible for the new building a... William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" Essay -- William Faulkner Rose E William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" â€Å"A Rose for Emily† by William Faulkner is set in a small Southern town during the post-Civil War era. The story revolves around the strange and tragic events of Miss Emily Grierson’s life. At first glance, Emily seems like a lonely woman with little self-confidence and low self-esteem that seems to stem from her upbringing by her father. There seemed to be some kind of abuse by her father and the fact that she had seemed to have lived such a sheltered life. She was brought up thinking that nobody was good enough for her. Her father had even shunned away his own family. Emily was turned into quite an odd character due to this type of upbringing. Emily’s love was controlled by her father, a man that was respected and of high class in the community. After her father passed away, Emily tried to act as if it never happened, and she was actually going to keep her father in the house. It was though she did not want to be alone and she was willing to live with her father’s corpse for company. The town’s people almost had to resort to law and force the issue when Emily finally broke down and came to the reality that her father had to be buried. Emily was a reclusive woman hopelessly clinging onto the ways of the Old South but the town around her was growing with the times. One day when Emily meets a Yankee, Homer Barron, and falls in love with him. Homer was part of the construction company that was responsible for the new building a...

My Life in Five Years

My Life in Five Years Salvador Dali once said: â€Å"Do not fear perfection, you will never achieve it. † Of course, I don’t expect to find perfection during the next five years, but I do imagine a positive and brilliant future life. I am self-confident, composed, self-controlled, cheerful and full of energy, and even humble. I don’t waste time; I can define a goal and know how to reach it, and I never leave things half done. While I don’t claim to be able to predict where I will end up, there are a few things that I know for certain that I want to accomplish: I would like to improve my education and therefore career opportunities, where I can help solve other people’s problems, explore new places and meet new friends, and finally, build the house of my dreams and find someone in my life to share all that with. The family is the foundation of human society and my number one priority. It is very important that a man’s family provides understanding and gives him moral support. Before any professional or financial success, a man must achieve family success—only then can he achieve something in his life. Therefore, I would be most grateful if I found someone to share my life with and start a family. The experience and pleasure that travel provides is a very important thing for any person. In my opinion, traveling is a source of emotional and personal inspiration; therefore, I will visit such countries as USA, Canada, France, Italy and others. Traveling will help me make new friends around the world and be able to get out and about the people from diverse background, which I'm certain will enrich my own life, to be sure, but also the lives of those to whom I come in contact. Last but not least is my education and career. I have asked myself many times what I wanted to be. A few years ago it was difficult to give a definite answer. I had changed my mind several times. During this past year I finally discovered what it was that I most wanted to pursue. I realized that my strongest desires were to continue specializing in innovative technologies, learn foreign languages, and most importantly, complete an MBA. Working with passion had always been my aim. I plan to do the work I love and hopefully earn good money as a bonus. I will make it a habit of helping people solve their problems by means of finding opportunities to create products and services. According to Nikolay Ostrovskiy, â€Å"life is given to us but once and we must live it so as to feel no torturing regrets for wasted years. † I realize that I won't achieve perfection when it comes to all my dreams, but I recognize that life and time are both precious. I am committed to doing everything possible to make these goals become part of my five-year reality.

Marketing Strategy for Decline Stage Essay

Marketing Strategy for Decline Stage Posted on April 2, 2012 by admin in Marketing. The main characteristics of the maturity stage which help to define the appropriate marketing strategies are Sales of most product forms and brands eventually decline Decline may be due to Technical advances which lead to better substitutes Change in customer taste with time Increase in competition Lower sales volume leads to Over capacity Increases price cutting Profit erosion Carrying a weak product may be very costly if there are no suitable strategic reasons to keep the prodict alive in the market. To handle declining sales, marketing strategy could be Increase firms invest to dominate market/strength competitive position Maintain investments in innovations and R&D until uncertainties above industry are resolved Decrease firms invest, selectively by dropping unprofitable products and focus on nice areas and profitable products Harvesting or divesting the product as per the GE Matrix strategic growth model. Appropriate marketing strategy for this phase depends completely on Industry’s relative attractiveness and Company’s strength in the industry. If the industry is attractive and company has significant strength in the industry then the company may decide to hold the product or brand even if sales volume decline during this phase. Post Tagged with Decline Stage, Marketing Strategy, PLC ↠ Previous Post If you enjoyed this article please consider sharing it! Next Post → Like crackmba.com/marketing-strategy-for-decline-stage/ 1/5 9/4/13 Marketing Strategy for Decline Stage | CrackMBACrackMBA Search Categories open all | close all Banking (114) Finance Wiki (183) HRM (9) Important Alert/News (95) Marketing (23) Online Fraud (1) Operations (20) Practice Tests (115) Previous Papers (24) Quiz (505) Strategy (8) Systems/IT (38) E-Mail Subscription Enter your email address: crackmba.com/marketing-strategy-for-decline-stage/ 2/5 9/4/13 Marketing Strategy for Decline Stage | CrackMBACrackMBA Subscribe Delivered by FeedBurner Pages open all | close all Finance Wiki Marketing Strategy Systems/IT HRM Operations Quiz Banking Alerts/News IBPS Online Fraud Recent Posts Previous Papers Practice Tests Tags Banking Awareness Quiz Banking Glossary Banking Quiz Banking Terms Banking Bonds Business Quiz Capital Market Computer Awareness Quiz Computer Quiz Data Quiz CMM Interpretation Debt Securities DI Different Funds English Exam Alert Finance Quiz Financial Ratio Analysis IBPS IBPS Quiz Interview Alert Logical Reasoning LR Marketing Marketing Awareness Quiz Marketing Quiz Mathematics MBA Admission crackmba.com/marketing-strategy-for-decline-stage/ 3/5 9/4/13 Marketing Strategy for Decline Stage | CrackMBACrackMBA MBA Quiz Options PO MBA Result Alert Practice Test Previous Paper Probationary Officers Quantitative Aptitude RBI RBI Assistant Recruitment Alert Risk SBI SBI PO Exam Specialist Officers Verbal Ability .. Current Affairs Business News GK Quiz Updates Current Affairs India – 3 September 2013 Sep 3, 2013 1. Indian Parliament gave its nod to the landmark Food Security Bill yesterday which seeks to provide highly subsidised foodgrains to†¦ Current Affairs Global – 3 September 2013 Sep 3, 2013 1. Ronald Coase, the British-born US economist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1991, passed away yesterday in†¦ GK Quiz – 3 September 2013 Sep 3, 2013 GK Quiz – 3 September 2013 4401 â€Å"World Population Day† is observed on _____________. A) 6-July B)†¦ Microsoft to acquire Finish phone maker Nokia’s mobile phone unit Sep 3, 2013 Global tech giant Microsoft has agreed to acquire Finish mobile maker Nokia’s mobile phone business for 5.4 billion euros†¦ Verizon to acquire Vodafone’s 45% stake in its US business for USD 130 billion; one of the largest deals in corporate history Sep 3, 2013 US mobile giant Verizon Communicat ions Inc agreed to acquire Vodafone Group Plc’s 45% stake in Verizon Wireless in a†¦ crackmba.com/marketing-strategy-for-decline-stage/ 4/5 9/4/13 Marketing Strategy for Decline Stage | CrackMBACrackMBA CrackM BA – If it’s ’bout M BA, it’s @ CrackM BA. Colorway WordPress Theme by InkThemes.com crackmba.com/marketing-strategy-for-decline-stage/ 5/5

In the Early Hours by Khurram Murad

In the Early Hours: Reflections on Spiritual and Self Development (Khurram Murad) Preface THE title of this book, In the Early Hours, has been carefully and specifically chosen to highlight that precious but often neglected time during the night that Allah is closest and most receptive to His servants. The Messenger of God said: Our Lord descends each night to the nearest Heaven when only the last third of the night remains, and says: `Is anyone praying that I may answer him? Is anyone seeking forgiveness, that I may forgive him? Is anyone asking, that I may give to him? ‘, and this continues until dawn. (Tirmidhi. The later part of each night is the most conducive period for reflection and self development. It is the occasion with the most potential for the heart to be present, alert and free of worldly concerns as the Quran declares: Lo! The vigil of the night is [a time] when impression is more keen and speech more certain. [al-Muzzammil 73:6. ] This book is a collection of inspirational advice by a dear and beloved teacher, Ustadh Khurram Murad on the subject of spiritual and self development. In it he sets out the goal of the Believer- the single-minded desire to seek the good pleasure of Allah and Paradise.He then outlines the methods and instruments which must be used in the attainment of that ultimate goal. These spiritual exhortations that follow were originally delivered in those early hours of Summer 1993 just after Salat al-Fajr as part of a course entitled Self Development for Islamic Workers at The Islamic Foundation, Leicester. That course represented one of many similar courses Ustadh Khurram conducted for young Muslims, both male and female. He recognised that it was in the young generation's eagerness, strength and enthusiasm that the future of the Muslim Umma lay.Each of the seven sections in this book represents one Nasiha or Advice. Each Nasiha was delivered in a presentation of approximately 45 minutes. This time allotment was not, o f course, sufficient for Ustadh Khurram to discuss the subjects in detail. I have therefore drawn material from several of his other speeches and works for `thoroughness', coherence and to provide clarity on the topics discussed. I have also added Quran and hadith references wherever I felt they were relevant and added to the richness of the text.Only Allah knows how close I have come to making clear the Message of the Quran and the Sunna as expressed by Ustadh Khurram. Let me emphasise that this book merely represents an introduction to spiritual and self development. I hope that each of the topics exposed here will lead you to further study so that you can continue to grow and progress along the path of attaining closeness to Allah, our Lord and Master. A selection of suggested readings is given at the end of this text to assist in further study. The task of preparing this text has certainly been a challenge for me, but one, which I have enjoyed and benefited from immensely.I am g rateful to Muhammad Abdul Aziz, Alyasa Abdullah, Asim Abdullah, Sharifa Abdullah, Fazeela Mollick, Wajid Mollick, Hashim Mohammed and Lucy Bushill-Matthews who all read the manuscript and offered valuable comments and advice during the initial phase of this text's preparation. My deepest appreciation, however, goes to Abdul Wahid Hamid, whose literary skills, advice and motivation were instrumental in finalising this work Ultimately, though, any mistakes this book contains are my own – may Allah forgive me and have mercy on me.Whatever good is derived from it, all praise is due to Him, for without His help and guidance, nothing is possible. I would like to end with a dua or supplication of the Prophet which epitomises the sole objective of this work and our goal in life: O Allah, You change hearts, so change our hearts to be obedient to You. (Muslim. ) Riza Mohammed Leicester, October 1999 CHAPTER ONE: The Process of Self Development THE path to God is only illuminated when a person recognises the central place of God in his life and strives to develop his self accordingly.The Messenger of God said: If someone wants to know what position he enjoys in the eyes of God, he has only to look at what place he gives to God (in his heart and life. (Hakim) The term nearest in meaning to self development in the Quranic vocabulary is tazkiya. Tazkiya means purification and refers to the cleansing of the human self from all that is unwholesome, undesirable and unwelcome. It also refers to the nurturing and strengthening of all the qualities within the human self that are essential for growth and development, for blossoming and flowering. THE GOAL IN LIFESuccess and happiness in this world and the Hereafter depend on tazkiya, the purification and nurturing of our personality. The Quran states that true success is only reserved for those who seek to purify themselves: Successful indeed is the one who purifies his whole self [ash-Shams 91:9] Our personality comprises not only the physical body but also the mind and the heart, feelings and attitudes, character and behaviour. Proper nurturing and development of these elements of the personality will achieve desirable goals. When goals are desirable, the process of aspiring to, working towards and achieving them also become desirable.This is part of human nature. It is critical, therefore, that we recognise and understand the true nature of our ultimate goal in life. For the Believer, the most coveted goal in life is to seek the good pleasure of Allah and Janna or Paradise. Our Creator has set this goal for us: And surely Paradise – it is the goal [an-Naziat 79: 41]; Indeed the Next abode – it is truly the life! [al-Ankabut 29: 64]; The companions of Paradise – they are the triumphant ones [al-Hashr 59: 20]. Know, however, that attaining the pleasure of Allah takes precedence over seeking Janna but the two are closely connected.Paradise can only be attained through seeking Alla h's pleasure, and when Allah's pleasure is gained, we will indeed be granted Paradise. Reflect upon the following two verses in the Quran: And there is a kind of person who would willingly give up personal interests, seeking Allah's pleasure; and God is Most Compassionate towards His servants. [al-Baqara 2: 207. ] Indeed Allah has purchased from the Believers their lives and their possessions, promising them Paradise, in return. [at-Tawba 9: 111. ] The alternative to attaining Paradise in the Hereafter is to be placed in Jahannam or Hellfire and to receive its punishments.The Quran states: But in the life to come: [it is either] severe suffering, or God's forgiveness and His goodly acceptance. [al-Hadid 57: 20. ] What is it that makes a person deserving of such a suffering? The answer is to be found in the second part of the same verse: for the life of this world is nothing but an enjoyment of self-delusion [al-Hadid 57: 20. ] Jahannam therefore, is for those who seek as their ultim ate goal in life, not the pleasure of Allah or Paradise, but the enjoyment of worldly gains. The pursuit of worldly gain is but a mirage. All worldly gains are left behind when you die.All that is on earth is bound to perish while Allah and His good favour will remain forever. It is for this reason that the Queen advises: Vie with one another in seeking to attain to your Sustainer's forgiveness; and to a Paradise as vast as the heavens and the earth, which has been readied for those who have attained to faith in God and His messengers: such is the bounty of Allah which He grants unto whomever He wills -for Allah is limitless in His great bounty. [al-Hadid 57: 21. ] All your efforts in this world should therefore be focused only on seeking Paradise. It is the Promise of the Almighty that:You will only be rewarded fully for all your good deeds on the Day of Resurrection, and [on that Day] whoever will be drawn away from Hellfire, and admitted into Paradise, will indeed have triumphed [Ali Imran 3:185. ] THE FIRST STEP TO PARADISE The first step in self development, then, is to concentrate single-mindedly on Paradise. Indeed, the one who is unsure of his destiny in life, torn between this world and the Next, like one standing with his feet in two separate boats – will be thrown off balance. Many of the difficulties that we face are due to this lack of commitment and inability to focus on the real and ultimate goal.If you can keep your focus on Janna, then everything else will be possible. The selection of the ultimate goal of Paradise must be made consciously and may involve an absolute break with the past. To choose this new goal as the ultimate goal in one's life is in fact to choose a new life, to begin a new journey. Embark on this new journey by refreshing your wudu (ablution) and offering two rakas (units) of Salat or Prayer reminding yourself of all the punishment of Hellfire you have just resolved to avoid at all costs and all the rewards of Paradi se that you will strive to achieve.Remind yourself also of the important stations and landmarks on the journey; imagine death as near; imagine the moment when the Angel of Death will declare, `your time is over, now you must follow me'; imagine that moment when you will be made to stand in the presence of Allah, Most High, so that the final judgment of life may be passed on you and imagine the consequences of that judgment. When you have completed the two rakas then resolve once more that all efforts will be directed towards achieving Paradise, beseech Allah and pray with humility: O Allah, I ask for Your mercy and whatever brings me closer to it, in word and deed.O Allah, I ask for a faith that will never vanish, a blessing that will never diminish, a pleasure that will never abate, and the most elevated position in Paradise distinguished by the companionship of Your Messenger, Muhammad. While improvement in your habits and actions is a life-long process, the desire to achieve it c an thus be sparked in a moment. This desire will provide the momentum for attaining your goal – the good pleasure of Allah and Paradise. YOUR MISSION Having taken the fast step and resolved to attain Paradise, you may ask yourself, what does Allah require from me in order for me to succeed?What Allah requires of you, in Quranic vocabulary, is for you to be a mumin and mujahid. A mumin is one who is true and firm in his faith in God. A mujahid is one who strives his utmost, with all the means at his disposal, to gain God's pleasure. If you are a mumin and a mujahid, Allah, the Most Exalted in Power and yet the Most Compassionate, will assist you to rise to higher stations both in this world and in the Hereafter. Allah has promised this to those who possess the qualities of iman or faith and the active resolve for jihad or struggle.The Quran states: The believers are only those who believe in Allah and His Apostle then they doubt not and struggle hard with their wealth and thei r lives in the way of Allah; they are the truthful ones. [al-Hujurat 49:15] You now have a mission: to become a mumin and mujahid. As you embark upon this mission you may come to feel that your knowledge of Islam is somewhat limited or perhaps that you are unable to attain those heights of submission and purification that you desire or others expect of you. This is only natural. You must not, however, allow these feelings of personal shortcomings to undermine your efforts to practise Islam.Remember that Islam is a state of becoming not a state of being. Each day you must strive to improve and better yourself – and you will improve. Tazkiya or this new programme for self-improvement that you now find yourself in, is a process that unfolds itself step by step. You cannot expect to change all at once. This is against the laws of nature. The Prophet was always aware of this when he was dealing with his Companions. Whenever someone embraced Islam, the Prophet would not ask that pe rson to do everything immediately.Instead, he would teach and expect that person to start fulfilling his obligations only as much as he could bear at a time. This gradual process of change is also clearly reflected in the manner in which the Quran was revealed over a period of 23 years. In all your efforts towards becoming a better Believer, you must bear in mind this principle of gradualism, otherwise you may try to attain the impossible, and when you do not achieve it, you may become frustrated. At this stage, what matters most is that your bargain with Allah, iman, remains sound and firm.This definition of iman is perhaps a little different from the definition you usually hear. It is, however, a definition that we find in the Quran [at-Tawba 9: 111]. Furthermore, attainment of such iman, allows you to be counted among the true and sincere servants in the eyes of your Lord. The Quran states: Behold, God has bought of the Believers their lives and their possessions, promising them Paradise in return, they fight in God's cause, and slay, and are slain: a promise which in truth He has willed upon Himself in the Tawra, and the Injil, and the Quran.And who could be more faithful to his covenant than God? [at-Tawba 9: 111] Once you have committed yourself to Allah, all that you have must be spent in His way. This is the ideal. Ideals, however, are always difficult to achieve – and this you must understand and accept. Ideals are always to be pursued; if they are easily and always achievable, they can hardly remain as ideals. Keeping to your side of the bargain then, is an ideal that you must always seek to maintain. It is this seeking and this striving to spend all that we have in the way of Allah that is known as jihad nd alternatively, in this instance, as tazkiya. PREREQUISITES OF TAZKIYA As you proceed on your journey along the new path, in quest of the ultimate goal of Paradise, you will encounter difficulties and hardships. These may often seem insurmo untable. Overcoming them may be made easier by a good early grasp of the prerequisites of tazkiya. These are as follows: 1. Tazkiya -Your Personal Responsibility You must accept that tazkiya is a highly personal process and that it demands taking personal responsibility for carrying it forward.You can only see the results of tazkiya through your own realisation, your own personal efforts and your own exertions. No one else can perform tazkiya for you. No organisation, no leader and no teacher can replace your own responsibility. God says: And no bearer of burdens shall be made to bear another's burden; and if one weighed down by his load calls upon [another] to help bear carry it nothing thereof may be carried [by that other], even if it be one's near of kin. [al-Fatir;5:18 ] This sense of personal responsibility is basic to the whole purpose and approach of Islam.Ultimately, we are judged individually for discharging our own responsibilities. If someone else fulfils your obligation s, then it should be he that is rewarded, not you. To be rewarded you must do what is expected of you by Allah by yourself: Whoever strives hard in God's cause does so only for his own good: for, verily, God does not stand in need of anything in all the worlds! And as for those who attain to faith and do righteous deeds, We shall most certainly efface their bad deeds, and shall most certainly reward them in accordance with the best that they ever did. al-Ankabut 29: 6-7. ] Some people allow themselves to be dictated by others. The Quran states that the weak will say on the Day of judgment that they were coerced into following the dictates of others, but that Allah will reply that the excuse is not legitimate for the decision to deviate from the Straight Path was their own. [Qaf 50: 26-28]. Even Shaytan will stand up on the Day of Judgment saying: ‘I invited you and you responded to me, so don't blame me, blame yourselves. [Ibrahim 14: 22] Ultimately, then, the blame and the re ward will be yours, because the responsibility was yours: On that Day all people will come forward, cut off from one another, to be shown their deeds. And so, he who shall have done an atom's weight of good, shall behold it; and he who shall have done an atom's weight of evil, shall behold it. [az-Zalzala 99: 6-8. ] Taking charge of your own affairs may certainly seem a daunting task, but one which you will accomplish with distinction if you appreciate and take advantage of the tremendous human potential that Allah has blessed you with.Allah says in the Quran: Verily, We created man in the best conformation, and thereafter We reduced him to the lowest of the low – excepting only such as attain to faith and do good works: and theirs shall be a reward unending! [at Tin 95: 4-6. ] Tazkiya does not consist simply of ideas, but of life, behaviour and conduct. The key to success, according to the Quran, lies in having true faith. To inculcate true faith you must start by acquiring a sound knowledge of Islam through a dedicated study of the Quran and Sunna.You must then translate your knowledge into practice. For this to occur, you need to have firm resolve and determination. This, in turn, will produce amal salih or righteous conduct. To aid you in your task, you must seek the company of those who are also striving to please Allah. They will encourage you towards righteousness and correct you when you deviate from the true Path. Your company also includes your mental and psychological company- the ideas you entertain, the ambitions you nurture, the sensitivities and sensibilities you develop and the books you read.All of these represent a form of company because they are your companions in solitude. 2. Genuine Effort In order to succeed, you must have a deep desire to make a genuine effort to fulfill your obligations as a Muslim: But as for those who strive hard in Our cause – We shall most certainly guide them onto paths that lead unto Us: for, behold God is indeed with the doers of good. [al-Ankabut 29: 69. ] With desire, of course, come actions. But know that it is not solely the results of your endeavours that count; what matters most is that you made your best effort.This is a very important point to appreciate because without genuine effort nothing can happen. Those who think that Prayer alone can work miracles are not living in a realistic world. Prayers are part of the effort, but Prayers are not the whole answer. If you pray, `Allah! Guide me and make me good', it is not going to bring you any benefit unless you are also determined to become good and make an effort towards becoming good. Once you have done the latter two things, then, of course, Prayer will be a source of baraka or Divine grace that will further inspire and strengthen your efforts.The initial desire and the ensuing effort to do and become good, is part of the continuing process of self development, a process that may begin at any point in life that you c hoose and continue till your last breath: O you who have attained to faith! Be conscious of Allah with all the consciousness that is due to Him, and do not allow, death to overtake you until you have surrendered yourselves unto Him. [Ali Imran 3: 102. ] There will never be a point when you will be able to say that you are now a perfect person or that you have achieved your full potential.If at any point you feel so, then be sure that is the starting point of your downfall, On the other hand, you may find that the greater your desire to fulfill your obligations as a Muslim, the more you feel beset or plagued by frustration, despondency and despair in your heart and mind. All of us, whether young or old, have experienced these diseases, and often just give up. What we should try to remember at such times is that it is the intention and effort that matters, not the result. This effort must be a continuing process: Be not, then, faint of heart, and grieve not: for you are bound to rise high if you are believers. Ali Imran 3: 139] 3. Sustaining Willpower To achieve the ultimate goal in life requires a sustained determination to do so, a willpower that is forever responsive and strong. In Quranic terminology this is called irada. Irada is basic to all our efforts. Without willing to do something you cannot do anything. Irada is very different from desire. You always hear people reflecting upon unfulfilled aspirations. One of the main reasons why aspirations and dreams remain unfulfilled is that they are no more than desires which faded to assume the status of irada.The Quran explains that one of the basic weaknesses in human nature which impedes self development is the weakness of will. While narrating the story of Adam, Allah informs: And, indeed, long ago We made Our covenant with Adam; but he forgot and We found no firmness of purpose in him. [Ta Ha 20:115] Irada requires strength and consistency and is indeed the antithesis of doubt, hesitation or lethargy. Once irada is firmly in place, then you must have no doubts and you must not hesitate. Now, what purpose should irada serve?The Quran makes it clear that this will power must be a firm resolve to seek the pleasure of Allah because this is the part of the bargain that you must deliver: And whoever desires [arada] the Life to Come, and strive for it as it ought to be striven for, and are [true] Believers withal-they are the ones whose striving finds favour [with God]. [al-Isra 17: 19] 4. Reliance on Allah Self-confidence is borne from the Believer's intimate knowledge and understanding that Allah is ever ready to assist those who strive and struggle in His way.Self-confidence comes from depending upon Allah and knowing that He is there to help you, protect you and shower His mercies upon you: So he who gives [in charity] and fears [Allah] and [in all sincerity] testifies to the best- We will indeed make smooth for him the path to Bliss. [al-Layl 92: 5-7. ] Self-confidence also emanates fr om knowing that Allah in His infinite mercy has equipped you with all that you require to undertake the tasks set before you. It is not characteristic of the One that is Most Just and Most Merciful to prepare you for a duel without equipping you with the necessary tools.Self-confidence is thus borne of total reliance and trust in Allah. It is knowing that at every step of your journey Allah is there assisting you. If you constantly hold yourself back believing that you are weak and incapable and blame your incompetence on minor inadequacies, then you are bound to fail. You must never allow yourself to believe or feel that Allah has treated you unfairly or that He has placed upon you a burden you cannot shoulder for on no soul does Allah place a burden greater than it can bear. [al-Baqara 2:286. ] Likewise, hope is central to your efforts and your success.You must sincerely hope and believe that everything you do to earn the pleasure of Allah will lead you to fulfillment. A superiori ty complex negates the task of self development. An inferiority complex is derived from a lack of confidence in Allah and oneself. You should never allow yourself to believe that you cannot fulfill your obligations nor should you despair of the mercy of Allah. Confidence, hope and determination are all important ingredients for your success: Those unto whom men said: Lo! the people have gathered against you, therefore fear them. But it only increased them in faith and they cried..Allah is sufficient for us! Most Excellent is He in Whom we trust! [Ali Imran 3: 173-174] You must be wary, however, of the kind of self-confidence that causes a person to proclaim himself self-sufficient. Modern concepts of self sufficiency are indeed an evil form of shirk or polytheism. To ascribe self-sufficiency to one's self is to assume for oneself an attribute reserved only for Allah. For the Muslim, self-confidence is wholly dependent upon the trust one places in Allah; it is not an arrogant proclam ation of complete independence from Allah. Allah alone is self-Sufficient.All else is reliant upon Him for existence. 5. The Best Use of Time Time is not money or gold; it is life and it is limited. You must begin to appreciate every moment of your life and always strive to make the best use of it. With all the demands of worldly life on your time, you will yet need to find time for self-development and maximise its potential. The better route towards self-development is, of course, to integrate all your efforts into a structured daily life. Imam al-Ghazali, may God have mercy on him, in his great work, Ihya Ulum ad Din, gives the following dvice: You should structure your time, arrange your regular devotions and assign to each function a set period of time during which it is given first priority but which it does not overstep. For if you abandon yourself to neglect and purposelessness, as cattle do, and just do anything that may occur to you at any time it happens to occur to you, most of your time will be wasted. Your time is your life, and your life is your capital; it is the basis of your transactions [with God], and the means to attain to everlasting felicity, in the proximity of God the Exalted.Each of your breaths is a priceless jewel, and when it passes away it never returns. Remember also that `the deeds most loved by Allah [are those] done regularly, even if they are few. ‘ (Bukhari, Muslim. ) While you must always strive to make the best use of your time, you must always aim for excellence in everything you undertake, whether at school, at home, at work or at play. Indeed, the Prophet has said, `Verily Allah has prescribed ihsan (proficiency and excellence) in all things. (Muslim. ) 6. Tazkiya -All-embracing Process.Islam does not subscribe to the type of asceticism where we purify our hearts and yet remain immersed in political, economic or social corruption. Tazkiya must encompass our entire life – the privacy of our thoughts as well as their social manifestations in our daily life. Everything must be in conformity with Allah's will. This will of God also requires you to seek and maintain a delicate balance between the various obligations that demand your attention; between your obligations to Allah, your obligations towards others and your obligations towards yourself The Prophet advised us against extremism of any kind.It is reported that he said to Abdullah ibn Amr: `Have I heard right that you fast everyday and stand in prayer all night? ‘ Abdullah replied, `Yes, O Messenger of God. ‘ The Prophet said, `Do not do that. Fast, as well as eat and drink. Stand in prayer, as well as sleep. For your body has a right upon you, your eyes have a right upon you, your wife has a right upon you, and your guest has a right upon you. ‘ (Bukhari, Muslim. ) Unless you approach tazkiya as an all-embracing process, you will find that your life is compartmentalized, certain parts impeding the development of o thers.This can only result in a life of disharmony and unhappiness. Approached as a comprehensive and all-embracing process, however, you will find that each part of your life will complement some other part. This should, God willing, make your struggle on the path to God and Janna, easier and full of grace. As you struggle to make headway on the path to God, always remember that you have an excellent example before you. This is the example of the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace.Often we would like to emulate our sports heroes, our parents, our teachers, our friends or others who attract our attention. For your spiritual development, however, the most beautiful example is that of the Prophet. Allah says in the Quran: You have, indeed, in the Messenger of God an excellent exemplar, whoever places his hopes in God and the Final Days and who remembers Allah much. [al-Ahzab 33: 21] BLESSINGS AND BENEFITS The decision to purify and develop yourself requires that y ou clearly define the path and consider the ways and means to achieve Paradise.This whole process will not only purify your heart, but also affect your entire life and the will of Allah will become so much easier for you to follow. Following the Divine Will is, of course, tazkiya itself, Soon, all your efforts will be directed towards the ultimate goal – the pleasure of Allah and Paradise. Know that every sin can be effaced through forgiveness, and forgiveness is a sure way to Paradise. As you strive to better yourself, then, simultaneously and continuously pray for forgiveness for all your shortcomings.God says: And whoever repents and believes and works righteous deeds, God changes evil deeds into good ones, and God is Ever-Forgiving, Merciful. [al-Furqan 25:70] It is a misconception to believe that simply by setting up Paradise as the ultimate goal, one can get there without any further effort. It is also a misconception that Paradise can solely be achieved by concentratin g only on certain aspects of life, the `religious and the spiritual'. The very fact that Paradise is the ultimate objective means that tazkiya must be pursued in all aspects of life, and in life as a whole.Consider, for example, the following: -Is not honesty a means to enter Paradise? -Will not a sense of responsibility enable me to enter Paradise? -Will not striving to fulfill the needs of fellow human beings make me deserve Paradise? -Will not abstaining from vain talk and aimless actions, bring me closer to Paradise? -Is not consciousness of the best use of my time a key to Paradise? -Will not keeping promises and offering Salat on time, which are distinguishing traits of the righteous, put me on the highway to Paradise? -Must not all of the above be sought to attain Paradise?Every effort that is legitimate and is aimed at attaining Paradise is also an integral part of the process of tazkiya Insha Allah (God-willing), if you take heed of all the prerequisites, blessings and bene fits of tazkiya, you will surely find the right environment, the true companionship and brotherhood and the most appropriate training programmes to make the task of self development easier and more rewarding. So give the good news to My servants who listen to the word [of God], then follow the beauty in it. Such are they whom God has guided And such are they who are endowed with understanding. azZumar 39: 17-18. ] SUMMARY The most comprehensive goal for a Muslim is the single-minded desire to attain Paradise. This desire to seek Paradise is a life-long process which can be sparked in a moment- and this desire will provide the means and the momentum to reach the goal. Your model for self-development is that of the Prophet Muhammad. In your quest for Paradise, you must personally take charge of your responsibilities, develop the willpower to perform and make a genuine effort to fulfill your obligations, ensure that you make the best use of your time and adopt a balanced approach to li fe.Remember that every effort that is legitimate and is aimed at attaining Paradise is also an integral part of the process of tazkiya and that every sin can be effaced through forgii&H §ss – and that forgiveness is the sure way to Paradise. And as for the one who fears to stand before his Lord and who restrains himself from base desires, the Garden is surely the abode. [an-Naziat 79: 40-41] May Allah enable us to be among those who purify themselves for it is God Who causes whomever He wills to grow in purity; and none shall be wronged by as much as a hair's breath [an-Nisa 4: 49].Were it not for God's favour upon you and His grace, not one of you would ever have remained pure. For it is God who causes whomever He wills to grow in purity: for God is all-Hearing all-Knowing [anNur 24: 21. ] CHAPTER TWO: A Life of Remembrance IN a verse of the Quran that I love very much, Allah, Most Gracious and Loving, commends: Remember Me and I shall remember you. Be grateful unto Me and deny Me not. [al-Baqara 2:152. ] Can you imagine a more gratifying state than this, where, when you remember Allah, the Creator, Sustainer and Lord of the Universe, He remembers you in return?The same exhortation has been beautifully conveyed in a hadith qudsi: I treat My servant as he hopes that I would treat him. I am with him whenever he remembers Me: if he remembers Me in his heart, I remember him in My `heart'; if he remembers Me in a gathering, I remember him in a gathering far better than that gathering; if he draws near to Me a hand's span, I draw near to him an arm's length; if he draws near to Me an arm's length, I draw near to him a fathom's length; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running. Bukhari, Muslim) Those who remember Allah standing, sitting and reclining and who reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth are highly commended in the Noble Quran. They are wise in that they fill their hearts with the remembrance of God in every, moment, in every circumstance and in every posture of their lives. [Ali Imran 3: 191] The exhortation to remember Allah at all times is a reflection of Allah's all-embracing and overwhelming love for us. The door to Allah is always open to us: Remember Me and 1 will remember you.We need only find our way to and through that door. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF DHIKR Regarding the significance of dhikrullah or the remembrance of God, Allah says in the Quran, itself the ultimate reminder (dhikr) to all the worlds [Sad 38: 87], the following: Remember Allah. for He has guided you. [al-Baqara 2:198. ] O you who believe! Remember Allah often with much remembrance. And glorify Him morning and evening. [Luqman 31: 41-42. ] And men who remember God much and women who remember – God has prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward. [al-Ahzab 33: 35 ]Hadith literature is similarly replete with references to the remembrance of Allah: The servant cannot perform a better deed which will save him from God's punis hment than the remembrance of God. (Malik. ) Whoever wishes to feast in the gardens of Paradise, let him remember God often. (Tirmidhi. ) Indeed, with regard to dhikr, the Quran concludes: And the remembrance of Allah is the greatest deed without doubt. [al-Ankabut 29:45] The significance of dhikr lies in the fact that it is God's own chosen and recommended mode by which the muminun or Believers show gratitude for having been shown the straight path.In addition, it is indeed the surest way of attaining God's forgiveness and achieving the ultimate reward of Paradise. The importance of dhikr then is not difficult to understand. It is dhikr that purifies your qalb or heart and makes it sound. And you can only attain salvation and true success by having a pure and sound heart. The qalb or `heart' referred to here is not the pump in your breast that pushes blood around your body but rather the centre or locus of your personality which pumps out your desires and motivations and which make s you conduct yourself as you do.It is this qalb that lies at your centre and dictates your actions which is the key to your ultimate success. Thus, with reference to the Day of Judgment, the Quran declares: [It will be a Day) when neither wealth nor children shall profit [and when] only he [will be saved] who comes before God with a sound heart [free of evil]. [ash-Shuara 26:88-89. ] This point is more elaborately made in a hadith in which the Prophet says: Listen [to me] carefully. There is a lump of flesh in the body – if it is set right and made good, the entire body becomes good and healthy; but if it becomes diseased, the entire body becomes diseased.Remember well – it is the Heart. (Bukhari. ) If the heart is the key to ultimate salvation and success, it may, likewise, be the seat of much corruption and open doors to many evils. It may facilitate the corruption of political and economic activities and ultimately the social institutions of a society. Where such a state prevails, the Quran suggests that it is because people, individually, have become diseased in their hearts. [al-Baqara 2:10. ] In this state, people stop seeing and doing what is right. The Quran explains that this is not because they have become blind in their eyes but because their hearts have become blind. al-Hajj 22: 46. ] This blindness only draws them nearer to the ultimate chastisement. It is the heart, as the decider of our ultimate fate, that must then be the starting point of any tazkiya programme, to purify this heart and then summon it to the service of mankind. Ibn al-Qayyim, one of the great scholars of Islam, states in his Kitab al Adhkar (The Book of Remembrance), that ‘the heart which is devoid of the remembrance of Allah is a heart that is dead'; it is dead even and long before the body carrying the heart reaches its grave. Indeed, this living body that carries the heart is the heart's grave.Ibn al-Qayyim's statement is reminiscent of the hadith of tir e Prophet which states: `The difference between someone who remembers His Lord and someone who does not is like the difference between the living and the dead. ‘ (Bukhari. ) The statement is also reminiscent of the following verse of the Quran: Do not become like those who forget Allah and Allah makes them forget themselves. It is they who are truly deprived. [al-Hashr 59:19. ] The purpose of tazkiya is to ensure that the heart never falls into a sorry state of being and that it is always alive with the remembrance of God.Prosperous indeed is one who purifies himself and remembers the name of His Guardian-Lord, and prays [unto Him]. [al-Ala 87: 14-15. ] The Prophet further emphasised the importance of dhikr when he said to his Companions: ‘Shall I not inform you of the best of your actions, the purest in the sight of your Lord, which raises your rank to the highest, which is better for you than spending gold and silver, better than meeting your enemy so that you strike a t their necks and they strike at yours? ‘ They replied: ‘Yes, indeed,' and he said: ‘It is the remembrance of Allah. ‘ (Tirmidhi. )Strive then, to fill all your moments, all your thoughts and all your actions with His remembrance. Recite tasbih or words of glorification and praise to punctuate all your actions and achievements. THE MEANING OF DHIKR What is the precise meaning of ‘dhikr'? What is its scope and what does it entail? Does it simply involve certain utterances of the tongue, like Subhanallah (I glorify Allah's absolute perfection), Alhamdu lillah (All praise be to Allah), Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest), La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah) and the recitation of some other selected verses of the Quran, or is there more to it?Of course, such utterances of the tongue and recitation of verses of the Quran are important. In fact they are very important forms of dhikr for, indeed, the best forms of remembrance are those that involve both the heart and the tongue. You must understand, however, that the scope of dhikr is considerably wider. Dhikr must not only be felt by the heart and uttered with the tongue, but must also affect and effect amal salih, or good deeds.Significantly, Ibn al-Qayyim suggests that dhikr encompasses `any and every particular moment when you are thinking, saying or doing things which Allah likes: Hence, if your conversation is filled with the words of God, this is dhikr and if all your actions are in accordance with His will, this is dhikr. Indeed Allah commends that we remember Him while standing, sitting and even while reclining. This is only possible if dhikr embraces every single aspect of life. Consider for example the following verse of the Quran where dhikr is emphasised in both Prayer and business activity:O Believers, when the call to Payer is sounded on the Day of Congregation, hasten to Allah's remembrance and leave all worldly commerce. This a for your own good, if you but kn ew . And when the Prayer it finished then disperse through the land, and seek of the bounty of Allah; and remember Allah frequently that you may prosper. [al-Jumua 62:9-10] Attending the Salat al-jumua, listening to the khutba or sermon and performing the congregational Prayer are all well known as forms of dhikr. But in our worldly pursuits as well we are urged to remember Allah even more often.We may thus conclude, that attending to your personal needs, earning a livelihood and spending on your family are all forms of dhikr. But of course, they can only be dhikr if, alongside with the relevant adhkar or supplications in the heart and on the tongue, they are done in obedience to Allah, for His pleasure, to attain Janna. Otherwise, as the Quran warns us, far from being dhikr, they may have the opposite effect: Let not your worldly possessions and your children make you neglectful of Allah's remembrance. But spend in the way of Allah. [al-Munafiqun 63:9-10. THE METHODS OF DHIKR We ha ve thus far discussed the significance, meaning and scope of dhikr. Let us now turn to the various forms and methods of dhikr. How do we remember Allah in the morning and evening, during the day and at night and while standing, sitting or reclining. ‘ There are basically two forms of dhikr. The first involves continuous and sustained inner awareness of Allah in all that we say and do in our daily lives. The second involves mechanisms, whether performed individually or collectively, that help to develop the first. 1.Sustained Awareness of Allah Let us begin with a discussion of the first form and its methods. How can you remember Allah throughout the normal course of your day without withdrawing from the routine of your daily worldly life? How can you ensure that your personal life, family life, professional life and other activities all continue in full swing, and yet, at the same time, ensure that your life as a whole – every moment of it – is permeated with rem embrance of Allah? Such an all-pervading dhikr can be an onerous task, but one you can accomplish – with some ease.Let me remind you of four states of consciousness that you must strive to develop by remembering certain things, absorbing them and reminding yourself of them often. ONE: Say to yourself: I am in Allah's presence; He is watching me. : Say to yourself: I am in Allah's presence; He is watching me. If ever you are alone, He is the second and that if you are two, He is the third. He is with you wherever you are. [al-Mujadala 58: 7. ] He is nearer to you than your-jugular vein. [Qaf 50: 16-18. ] He is watching everything that you do and hearing everything that you say. He is ever present and His knowledge is all encompassing.Remind yourself of this as often as you can, and throughout the day- every time you begin a new task, and every time you speak. Indeed, your aim should be to impress this on your heart in such a way that it ultimately becomes your very breath. Whe n the Prophet was asked by a Companion about the best method of purifying himself, he replied: `You should always remember that Allah is with you wherever you are. ‘ (Tirmidhi. ) TWO: Say to yourself: Everything I have has been given to me by Allah. All that there is – surrounding you, on you and in you – comes from Allah alone.There is none that creates or gives anything but Allah. [an-Nahl 16:78; Ya Sin 36:33-35. ] Therefore, reflect upon all the baraka or blessing that He has created you with and be thankful to Him. In all the adhkar that the Prophet has taught us, hamd or gratefulness to Allah is a constant theme. Many of these adhkar are simple to learn, and indeed, it was the most simple of his adhkar that he used most frequently. When the Prophet rose in the morning, he would say Alhamdu lillah; whenever he ate or drank he would say Alhamdu lillah; and even when he relieved himself he would give thanks to Allah.Learn as many of the adhkar as you can, and t hroughout the day, as you witness all that Allah has blessed you with, punctuate your day with these adhkar. If ever you appear to be short of things to be thankful for, recall the hadith of the Prophet: `There are 360 joints in the body and for each joint you must give a sadaqa [thanks or charity] each day. ‘ (Bukhari. ) You must give a sadaqa for each one of them because without any one of them you will be incomplete and handicapped. You must do this on a daily basis for should any one of them become damaged one day, you will similarly become incapacitated.Additionally, you may remind yourself that, as we now know from our knowledge of human physiology, your heart beats 72 times a minute. Every time it beats, it does so with the permission of Allah. The moment He withdraws that permission, the heart will stop beating and your life will certainly come to an end. If you feel that there is nothing else to thank Allah for, then thank him for the life that He has given you â€⠀œ for, so long as there is life, there is hope. THREE: Say to yourself: Nothing in this world can happen without His permission. Everything lies in the hands of Allah.No harm can befall you and no benefit can reach you except as Allah ordains. It is as the Quran informs us: If God should touch you with misfortune, none can remove it but He, and if He should touch you with good fortune, He has power over all things. He alone holds sway over His creatures; He is the All-wise, the All-aware. [al-Anam 6: 17-18. ] The Prophet Muhammad would supplicate to Allah after each Prayer: O Allah, whatever You want to give me, no one can stop it from coming to me and whatever You want to prevent from coming to me, nobody can give to me.Prayer after Prayer, you should recite these beautiful words. And beyond that, remind yourself as much as you can and throughout the day, especially as you expect something to happen, or not to happen, that everything happens only as He commands, and by His permiss ion. FOUR: Say to yourself: I am going to return to Allah one day and that day could be today. You do not know when you will leave this world. It may be that the coming morning is your last morning, or perhaps the coming evening is your last evening. Indeed, it may be that this hour is your last hour, or even, that this moment is your last moment.Such an uncertainty does not, of course, justify a complete withdrawal from this life so as to prepare for the Next in some monastic fashion. It is important, however, that you are always conscious of this uncertainty, to the extent that it motivates you to spend every moment of your remaining life seriously, considering it as a gift from Allah and spending the resources He has blessed you with – time, ability and energy – as He has advised. Then, and only then, will your life have achieved what is required of it, and your return will achieve what is required of it.To help you attain this state of consciousness, recall and ref lect upon the following Quranic verse as much as you can and throughout the day: from Allah we came and to Him we shall return. [al-Baqara 2:156] These are the four states of consciousness that can help us achieve a life completely devoted to the remembrance of Allah. To try to reach these four states simultaneously, and with sincerity, can only purify you. To try in a determined fashion to reach these four states will lead you inevitably to Paradise. 2. Specific Methods of Dhikr For us to achieve a continuous and sustained awareness of Him, Allah, in His Wisdom and Mercy, has aught us some very specific mechanisms of dhikr. These include: the formal ibada-Salat, Sawm, Zakat and Hajj; tilawa of the Quran, dua, istighfar and tawba, seeking the company of the righteous and dawa. Together these mechanisms or methods constitute what we have classified above as the second form of dhikr, but here we may sub-divide them into two groups: those that can be performed individually and those th at are performed collectively. 3. Methods of Individual Dhikr The foremost of the specific methods pertaining to individual dhikr include the fard or obligatory ibada. Allah has said in a hadith qudsi:My servant does not draw near to Me with anything more loved by Me than what I have made obligatory. (Bukhari. ) Each specific formal ibada or act of servitude to God, has been ordained as an instrument of self development. When we observe our Salat regularly at the proper times, together in congregation whenever possible, with clear intentions and sincerity; when we fast in the month of Ramadan with awareness and resolve; when we give Zakat as soon as it falls due with a generous heart; and when we fulfill the obligations of Hajj as soon as we have the means, we will gain that special closeness to Allah that He has promised.Indeed, we may get even closer to God through additional observance of these specific formal acts of servitude, for Allah continues in the hadith qudsi: My servant continues to draw nearer to Me with additional devotions until I love him. When I love him, I become the hearing with which he hears, the sight with which he sees, the hand with which he strikes and the foot with which he walks. Were he to ask for something I would surely give it, and were he to ask for refuge, I would surely grant him refuge. (Bukhari. ) For each specific fard ibada, there is an additional nafl or superogatory equivalent.These are as follows: -The Sunna Salat – these include the additional Prayers before and after the five obligatory ones, but just as importantly the Tahajjud Prayer. -The Sunna Fasts – as recommended by the Prophet and to be practised on Mondays and Thursdays of each week, the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth day of each lunar calendar month, and other recommended days in the Islamic year. -Sadaqa fi Sabilillah – the giving of voluntary charity, however much and whenever one can afford, for the pleasure of Allah. -The Umra – performance of the voluntary short pilgrimage.In addition to the fard and their related nafl ibada, there are two further specific methods of individual dhikr: the first is the daily recitation of the Quran, and the second, frequent dua or supplications to Allah for forgiveness, guidance and fulfillment of needs. Let us explore each of these specific methods pertaining to individual dhikr in more detail, particularly as instruments of tazkiya and dhikr A. Salat Salat is the foremost form of ibada that Allah Himself has prescribed for us. In His own words He commands: Establish regular Prayer that you may rememberMe. [Ta Ha 20:14. ] The whole purpose of Salat is to be ever conscious of Allah, the Creator, Lord and Sustainer of all things. When we perform Salat we involve our tongue, our heart, our mind and indeed our whole body. In this sense, Salat is indeed, one of the most comprehensive forms of dhikr. It is perhaps for this reason that Allah states in a hadith qudsi: `O ut of all the ways through which My servant gets closer to Me, Salat is the dearest to Me. ‘ (Bukhari. ) It is unfortunate, therefore, that we do not always take full advantage of this gift.We may pray five times each day but few of us remain conscious for long that in Prayer we have the best means to develop a strong connection with Allah. We may compare the obligatory Salat to bathing five times a day. If after such frequent bathing, your body remains dirty, then we may question the usefulness and efficacy of such bathing. Similarly, if after regular observance of Prayer your heart remains unmoved, your morals remain corrupt and your conduct remains unaffected, we may question the usefulness and efficacy of your Prayer?If you enter into Salat and come out of it the same person, then you have missed something, and you may have missed a golden opportunity to achieve something great. Remember, though, Salat is an obligation. Whether your heart is attentive or not, it must be pe rformed. You cannot give up Prayer because to you it appears useless. Don't give up the obligation but try to infuse it with the purpose it seeks to serve – remembrance of Allah. How can you improve the quality of your Salat?Remember, first and foremost, that as soon as you commence your Salat, Shaytan makes it his duty to fill your mind with anything and everything but thoughts of Allah. [al-Araf 7: 16-17. ] For, Shaytan is aware that your remembrance of Allah will draw you closer to Him, so he tries ceaselessly to disengage your mind and heart from such remembrance, so that you may never achieve that closeness. The most important hurdle to overcome from the outset, therefore, is absentmindedness. It is this that destroys the quality of your Prayer, for Allah does not accept the Prayers of a wandering mind.The Prophet Muhammad said: God does not accept the Prayers of an individual until his heart achieves in it what his body has achieved. [Al-Ghazali in Ihya. See Inner Dimen sions of Islamic Worship, Islamic Foundation, Leicester, p. 29. ] The ability to concentrate in Prayer may be improved by undertaking adequate psychological, mental and physical preparation before the Prayer and by utilising certain techniques whilst performing the Prayer. Below we discuss some of them. i. Psychological and Mental Preparation -The planning of your daily activities should revolve around the five daily Salat. al-Ma'arij 70: 22-23. ] Do not plan everything else and then try to fit Prayer into your busy schedule. -Ensure that you are conversant with all the rules and regulations governing your Prayer. Research in depth the Quranic verses and ahadith relating to the virtues of Salat. -Be punctual with your Prayer. [an-Nisa 4:103] Get into the habit of praying at the earliest hour. Do not procrastinate. The Prophet said, `the deed most loved by Allah is Prayer performed on time. ‘ (Muslim. ) -Pray as much of your fard Salat in jama'a or congregation as is possible. al-Baqara 2: 43. ] -Avoid praying in a state in which you are mentally and physically fatigued. [an-Nisa 4: 43] -Rid your mind of all evil thoughts and ideas. [al-Maun 107: 4-6. ] -Keep your mind free of worldly worries and engagements. -Plan what ayat / duas you are going to recite. -If you do not understand Arabic learn the meaning of what you recite in your Prayer. -Remind yourself that engaging in Prayer offers you an opportunity to release yourself from the pressures and tensions of this world. The Prophet has said that in Prayer was placed the comfort of his eyes.Therefore cherish the opportunity to remove the shackles and burdens of this world from your shoulders. [al-Baqara 2: 45. ] -Use your Prayer to remain focused on your mission in life to bring your entire being to serve only Allah. -Use your Prayer as a source of strength, inspiration and enthusiasm for your life and activities. ii. Physical Preparation -Fulfill all your personal needs before you commence your Prayer, for example, thirst, hunger and calls of nature. -Pray in a pure physical state. Perform your wudu with care and perfection. [al-Maida 5: 6. -Although the whole earth is a masjid or a place of worship, choose a place that is clean. -Pray in an environment free of noise and one where there is no distraction. -Adorn yourself with clean and respectable clothes for Allah has said: O Children of Adam, wear your best clothes at every place of worship. [al-Araf 7:31. ] iii. Performing Your Prayer -Assess your mental readiness for Prayer before its commencement, during the various postures with its attendant recitations, after each raka and ultimately at the end- Try to make improvements at each stage Pray with humility both in your mental state and in your physical manner. Pray with hope and awe, asking Allah for His mercy and forgiveness. -Remind yourself continually that you are talking to the most important `Being' in your life – your Creator and Sustainer. He is in front of you. You are facing Him and you are involved in a dialogue with Him. [al-Alaq 96: 19. ] -Commence your Prayer by seeking Allah's help and protection from the influences of Shaytan. [an-Nahl 16: 98. ] -Lower your gaze while praying and do not allow the physical environment to distract you.Anas related that the Prophet said: `My dear son, be sure to avoid being distracted during Prayer, for, to become distracted while praying is a disaster. ‘ (Tabarani. ) -Use a variety of Quranic verses and duas in your Prayer to achieve greater concentration and awareness. -Adopt a whispering technique in your recitation. This will increase your ability to remain focused on what you are saying. [alIsra 17:110. ] -As you recite the Quran, translate it into your own language so that your attention is held. As you concentrate upon the meaning and implications of the words, insha Allah, all thoughts of worldly ideas will disappear. On each occasion that you recite the Sifat or attributes of Allah in r uku and sajda, consider how indebted you are and how grateful you should be to Allah and express your true emotions. -Utilise the occasion of sajda to make additional dua to Allah. The Prophet said: ‘ A servant is nearest to his Lord when he is in sajda, so increase your supplication when in sajda. ‘ (Muslim. ) -Make your Prayer of moderate duration so that you do not become physically and mentally tired but be aware that while in Prayer you must take your time praying. -Give due regard to the proper performance of all the physical postures. Pray as if it is your last Prayer. The Messenger of God said: `When you stand up to pray, perform your prayer as if it were your last, do not say anything you will have to make excuses for tomorrow, and resolve to place no hope in what is in the hands of men. ‘ (Ahmad. ) Performing your prayer in a satisfactory manner should lead to a radical change in the way you lead your daily life. Salat must be as the Quran states: Surely, Salat prevents indecency and evil [alAnkabut 29: 45. ] Your improved and more disciplined life will in turn help the quality of your Prayer to increase even more.The two should feed one another and continuously reinforce each other. Note that there is punishment for a Prayer not performed satisfactorily. It will be a witness against you rather than a witness for you on the Day of Judgment. However, the reward for a Prayer well performed is immeasurable. The Prophet said: `If a man performs two rakas of Salat without the distraction of any worldly thought, all his previous sins will be forgiven. ‘ (Bukhari. ) iv. Tahajjud Salat Even though it is not obligatory, try to establish Tahajjud Salat as part of our nightly activities. The Prophet said: `The best Prayer after the fard Prayer is the night Prayer. ‘ (Muslim. ) One of the characteristics of the Ibadur Rahman or Servants of the Most Merciful, is that they get up at night and perform Tahajjud Salat. [al-Furqan 25: 64] Qiyam al-layl or night vigil is a source of great spiritual energy. The Prophet has said: Keep up qiyam al-layl. It was the way of the virtuous who came before you, it draws you nearer to your Lord, atones for your sins, forbids you from evil and protects the body from sickness. (Tirmidhi. )When a man wakes up his wife at night and they pray two rakas (units) together, they are written down among the men and women who remember Allah. (Abu Dawud) The Quran also commends the one who utilizes the early hours of each day to engage in remembrance of Allah: Is one who worships devoutly during the hours of night prostrating himself or standing [in adoration] and who places his hope in the mercy of His Lord – [like one who does not]? Say: ‘Are those equal – those who know and those who do not know? ’ It is those who are endowed with understanding that receive admonition. [Az-Zumar 39:9]B. Sawm Sawm or fasting is another important instrument of tazkiya. It holds a unique status among all other forms of ibada. In a hadith qudsi we are told: Every good deed of a man is granted manifold increase, ten to seven hundred times. But Allah says: Fasting is an exception; it is exclusively for Me, and I will give reward for it as much as I wish. (Bukhari, Muslim. ) The fruit of fasting ought to be that rich inner quality which the Quran calls taqwa: O Believers! Fasting is ordained for you, even as it was ordained for those before you, that you might attain taqwa. [al-Baqara 2:183]Taqwa is the most basic prerequisite for being guided by Allah. It entails God-consciousness, a sense of responsibility, accountability, dedication and awe. It is that which prompts and inspires us to fulfill our responsibilities towards the Creator. Taqwa is the main criterion by which Allah values the deeds of a Muslim. The Quran states: Surely the noblest among you in the sight of God is the most Godfearing of you. Verily God is all-Knowing and all-Wise. [al-Hujurat 49: 13 . ] We must strive to the utmost to inculcate taqwa in our lives as Allah has ordained: Take provisions with you, but the best of provisions is taqwa.So remain conscious of Me, O you who are endowed with insight. [al-Baqara 2:197] Fasting teaches us to remember Allah. It helps to instill in us certain attributes and qualities which develop our taqwa. We discuss some of these below. i. Fulfilling Allah's Wishes While fasting, the most basic physical needs – Food, water and sleep – are readily and joyfully sacrificed. Hunger and thirst are no longer harmful; Allah's displeasure is harmful. Physical pleasures no longer hold any lure; Allah's rewards do. The scale of values is turned upside down. The measures of comfort and pain, success and failure are radically changed.However, whatever the physical discomfort, the mortification of the flesh is certainly not the desired object. The gifts of Allah are there to be enjoyed but limits by Him must also be strictly observed. O nce the sun has set, the fast must be broken and the sooner the better. All that was forbidden during the fasting hours, at His command, becomes permissible again, at His command. Similarly, eating before dawn is strongly encouraged even though the hour is early for it provides the necessary strength for the rigours of the day ahead. Fasting and praying are obvious acts of worship but eating also constitutes a form of worship. i. Willpower Fasting strengthens our willpower. The Prophet has said: ‘Sawm is a shield [or a screen or a shelter from the Hell-fire]. ‘ (Bukhari. ) The regime of dawn-to-sunset abstinence from food, drink and sex, for the sake of Allah alone, internalises the lesson that we must never en