Depression

Vincent VanGogh's Self Portrait

One of the most famous depressive personalities in history was the famed artist Vincent Van Gogh. The 19th century European society of Van Gogh's day was not ready to accept his truthful and emotionally morbid way of depicting his art subjects. His internal turbulence is clearly seen in most of his paintings, which set the stage for the direction of a new style of painting called Expressionism. It is characterized by the use of symbols and a style that expresses the artist's inner feelings about his subject.

Therefore, an understanding of the paintings by Van Gogh requires insight into his turbulent life, because his style of painting is exemplified by a projection of the painter's inner experience onto the canvas he paints. In Vincent Van Gogh's own words, he said, "What lives in art and is eternally living, is first of all the painter, and then the painting." To understand an artist of Expressionism we must first explore their biography.

Many of us can identify with the roadblocks that Vincent Van Gogh experienced in his many career and romantic pursuits, all ending in failure. His reaction to these experiences however, demonstrates a biological and psychological abnormality, causing behaviors that alienated those around him.

As he became more isolated from society and began to pour all of his energies into painting, his eccentricities and outbursts developed pathological traits, which caused him first, to be institutionalized, and second, it led to his suicidal death at the young age of 37.

During his short and turbulent life, he sold only 1 painting for 400 francs, just 4 months before his death. It is titled "The Red Vineyard" (See painting below). Nonetheless, he produced an incredible number of masterpieces that will continue "living" for the rest of human history.

Causes of Depression

Depression has no single cause; often, it results from a combination of things. You may have no idea why depression has struck you. Whatever its cause, depression is not just a state of mind. It is related to physical changes in the brain, and connected to an imbalance of a type of chemical that carries signals in your brain and nerves. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters.

Some of the more common factors involved in depression are:

1. 
   Family history. Genetics play an important part in depression. It can run in families for generations.
2. Trauma and stress. Things like financial problems, the breakup of a relationship, or the death of a loved one can bring on depression. You can become depressed after changes in your life, like starting a new job, graduating from school, or getting married.
3. Pessimistic personality. People who have low self-esteem and a negative outlook are at higher risk of becoming depressed. These traits may actually be caused by low-level depression (called dysthymia).
4. Physical conditions. Serious medical conditions like heart disease, cancer, and HIV can contribute to depression, partly because of the physical weakness and stress they bring on. Depression can make medical conditions worse, since it weakens the immune system and can make pain harder to bear. In some cases, depression can be caused by medications used to treat medical conditions.
5. Other psychological disorders. Anxiety disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and (especially) substance abuse often appear along with depression.

Who Gets Depression?

Although depression can make you feel alone, statistics in America show that 16% of Americans will have it during their lifetime. While depression can affect anyone, its effect may vary depending on your age and gender.

1. 
   
   Women are almost twice as likely to become depressed as men. The higher risk may be due partly to hormonal changes brought on by puberty, menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy.
2. Men. Although their risk for depression is lower, men are more likely to go undiagnosed and less likely to seek help. They may show the typical symptoms of depression, but are more likely to be angry and hostile or to mask their condition with alcohol or drug abuse. Suicide is an especially serious risk for men with depression, who are four times more likely than women to kill themselves.
3. Elderly. Older people may lose loved ones and have to adjust to living alone. They may become physically ill and unable to be as active as they once were. These changes can all contribute to depression. Loved ones may attribute the signs of depression to the normal results of aging, and many older people are reluctant to talk about their symptoms. As a result, older people may not receive treatment for their depression.

Depression Basics

Some people say that depression feels like a black curtain of despair coming down over their lives. Many people feel like they have no energy and can't concentrate. Others feel irritable all the time for no apparent reason. The symptoms vary from person to person, but if you feel "down" for more than two weeks, and these feelings are interfering with your daily life, you may be clinically depressed.

Most people who have gone through one episode of depression will, sooner or later, have another one. You may begin to feel some of the symptoms of depression several weeks before you develop a full-blown episode of depression. Learning to recognize these early triggers or symptoms and working with your doctor will help to keep the depression from worsening.

Most people with depression never seek help, even though the majority will respond to treatment. Treating depression is especially important because it affects you, your family, and your work. Some people with depression try to harm themselves in the mistaken belief that how they are feeling will never change. Depression is a treatable illness.

Life with depression

Working with your doctor, you can learn to manage depression. You may have to try a few different medications to find the one that works best for you. Your doctor may also recommend that you see a therapist and/or make certain lifestyle changes.

Change won't come overnight—but with the right treatment, you can keep depression from overshadowing your life.

Help Someone You Love

When people are depressed, they're not the only ones who suffer. Typically, many of those around a depressed person—friends, family, and loved ones—also struggle with the effects of his or her condition.

Watching someone you love fight depression can be frustrating and frightening. Remember, you can't take responsibility for someone else, and the decision to get help is up to the person with depression. But, there are things you can do. For many people with depression, a friend or loved one who cares can be their most important resource.

What can I do?

1. Learn about depression—its causes, symptoms, and treatments. Knowing about the condition will help you better understand what a depressed person is going through.
2. Do what you can to make sure that a person with depression gets medical care. Encourage your friend or loved one to stick with his or her therapy or medication. Offer to go with him or her to appointments as support.
3. Be supportive and patient. Listen to what the depressed person has to say.
4. Without being pushy, encourage your friend or loved one to do the things that he or she used to enjoy. See friends. Go to the movies. Take a walk.

Emergencies

If someone you know is thinking about suicide, don't ignore it. Do whatever you can to get help for that person. Get in touch with his or her doctor or therapist.

Avoiding burnout

Helping a person with depression can be exhausting and overwhelming. Here are some things to keep in mind that can help both of you:

1. Try to get other people involved in helping a person who's depressed, since doing it on your own can be difficult.
2. People with depression often resist attempts to be helped. It's okay to feel angry and frustrated, but don't confuse the person you love with the illness.
3. Depression isn't anyone's fault. It isn't possible to “snap out of” depression.
4. No matter how overwhelmed you feel, take time for yourself.
   consult with your physician or healthcare professional before using any prescription product.

Modern Day Stressors on the Job

In today's globally-connected world where businesses operate 24/7 (in most multinationals, it is called "follow the sun" - i.e. when Asia shuts down, then virtual teams operate from elsewhere so that customers are always served), work-related depression is on the rise.

As an HR practitioner with 32+ years experience in a Fortune 500 oil and gas organization, I have seen many situations where this happens. In my own organisation, the flavor of the day is the Matrix Organization. In a Matrix Organization, the support services (HR, Purchasing, Law, Accounting, etc.) provide support to the revenue generators (in this case, oil exploration/production).

The revenue generators are, therefore, the "raison d'etre " (reason for being) of the service providers. It means that the revenue generators pay the salaries of the service providers and if it is not for them, the service providers would not exist. The support services have their functional bosses (usually located at HQ) but locally, they are accountable to the Country Manager who is the organisation's face in-country.

The challenge then becomes the "push/pull" between functional and country calls. The service provider is expected to manage the directives of two bosses and if these directives are at odds with each other, then he gets mired in a tangle - between his functional boss (who writes his appraisal) and the local boss (who pays his salary and whose input is sought for the appraisal). Therefore, in this role, conflict management and negotiation skills are of utmost importance, but they drain the employee's energy.

Another stressor is the borderless world we live in today is where, due to internet and broadband, the employee is always at the end of a phone line. Employees are on call and even if they get compensated, family life is disrupted. Then, because of time zone differences, some teleconferences take place at ungodly hours.

Yet another stressor (in large multinationals) is what we call the "home office" concept. As private corporations are bottom-line driven, the objective is always to be able to deliver the same service at lower cost than the nearest competitor. The "home office" is implemented for staff who do not need to be in the office to do their work - e.g. sales, hence saving on real estate costs. So, instead of fighting traffic jams to get to the office, the employee can just directly go to his customer which could be, in some instances, closer to his home. He goes into the office occasionally for meetings or to submit claims.

The employee is given the facilities of an office at home (which must meet certain local standards with regards to safety, etc.). A "home-based" employee faces certain challenges which may lead to depression. Feelings of isolation from colleagues must be managed and more importantly, the "out-of-sight-out-of-mind" syndrome is very real; for salary increases depends on your appraisal and if your boss does not see your face, maybe he has forgotten about you?

Also, in this situation, the line between work and family is blurred. Children (especially younger ones) are a challenge for if Papa is working in his sarong, then he must be on vacation. The employee, therefore, must be highly disciplined to manage the situation. Then, there are other social problems associated with the husband being left with a young maid - but I will not even get there.

During the current economic crunch, it is more stressful because employees fear for their jobs. Given the widespread incidence of work-related depression due to globalization, multinational companies must implement work-life balance programs and caregivers need to understand the workplace of today to appreciate what their patients are going through at work.

When Your Best Isn't Good Enough

So Susan Boyle, Britain’s Got Talent U-Tube Singing sensation came out second in the finals of last week. She lost to dance group Diversity. Today, she was taken to a London clinic following her “shock” defeat” at the contest because she actually got a standing ovation. "You had the nerve to come back here tonight, face your critics and beat them," judge Simon Cowell told her. "You did it."

Considering the circumstances and her background, Ms Boyle should be proud of her achievements. She’s just a simpleton out to have a good time (she hangs out at the local karaoke) and the intense media scrutiny was too much for her. She has finally woken to the enormity of the situation. She was even on the verge of giving up and had, at one time, almost packed up to leave.

But Ms Boyle had beat the odds and although she did not win the title, I believe doors are opening. I have been in enough singing contests to know that sometimes your best just isn’t enough. Remember James Ingram’s Just Once (“I did my best, but I guess my best wasn’t good enough”). There was even one contest where I was voted “Best Performer” but was not placed – didn’t make sense to me. But there are other factors other than just talent at play Ms Boyle, and you will learn.

And then there was one contest where I came out runner-up (National Panasonic 1997) and even beat Ms Adibah Nor (Yes, THE Adibah Nor who was not even placed). I was the oldest contestant at 42 while the youngest was 16. Adibah was then 24.

Adibah then went on to win the Bintang Harapan Nescafe talent contest which launched her singing career.

My point, Ms Boyle, is that winners sometimes don’t make it and “also rans” do better. Just see where Adibah Nor is today. As for yours truly? I am contented (except for hiccups here and there) and still singing the blues (sometimes, just kidding, more like syok sendiri in the bathroom).

But I have no regrets. I have nothing to prove – all I wanted was a good time and to see how competitive I was. I am a competitive person by nature and I sometimes push the envelope to see where I stand (be it skydiving, bowling, golf, or karaoke).

I like your fighting spirit in beating the odds, Ms. Boyle….you are my kind of person – you go girl but beware of the big, bad, world out there where you will soon find out they crawl out of the woodwork. Hire a good manager and keep a level head and don’t let fame get to your head – it’s a dog-eat-dog world out there!

Violence Against Women (VAW)

I am home for the week-end from the hospital and had the opportunity to catch up with reading my mum's favourite newspaper - BERITA HARIAN.

Mum is avid reader and she reads the BH cover-to-cover. She is very proud of the fact (and I always compliment her for it) that she recognizes the names/faces of all Ministers, Opposition members, Malay drama and Hindi movie artistes and, during the height of the Iraq war, the Bush War Cabinet - Colin Powell, Donald Rumsfeld, Condi Rice and Dick Cheney, to name a few.

The report below caught my eye:

In brief, an Indian man, Sanjay, allegedly hit his wife on the chest, head and shoulder with a hammer before throwing her off their first floor home in a fit of rage. Her crime? Apparently, the chappati (flatbread) she served him for lunch was stale. Sanjay's mum rushed his wife to hospital where she is in critical condition. Sanjay apparently has disappeared and is wanted for attempted murder.

My heart bleeds for this unfortunate lady, who, most probably did her best to serve him lunch. In all probablity, there was no flour to make fresh chappati - so whose fault is it really?

Which leads me to the topic of my post today - violence against women. Violence against women is a chosen action against a woman or girl child simply because of her gender, simply because she is female. Violence against women cuts across race, religion, income, class and culture.

Violence against women is deeply embedded in all cultures, so much so that millions of women consider it a way of life.

Violence against a woman is a crime, and a violation of her human rights.

Men must be held responsible for their violence. Of course not all men are abusive, but overwhelmingly, men are the abusers and women are the victims. Men make the choice how they let out their aggressions and upon who.  Most often, men who beat their wives do not hit their bosses, colleagues or male friends. Men batter because they feel they have the right to or think that their feelings are superior to a woman's.

Rape is not an "over-spill" of sexual energy. It is not an impulsive crime. A high percentage of rapists are "friends" and relatives. Rape is not prompted by provocative dress - remember the lady engineer who was raped and then strangled with her own tudung.

No woman deserves violence, ever!

Some of the horrific examples of VAW in the world today are sex selective abortion, battery during pregnancy, female infanticide, child marriage, of women, domestic violence, marital rape, forced suicide of widows, murders, female genital mutilation, incest, child prostitution, pornography, date rape, rape, sexual harassment, ”honour” killings, dowry abuse, acid throwing, forced prostitution, trafficking of women.

FORMS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Violence against Women is not restricted to physical abuse.

Psychological and Emotional Abuse
Threats, insults and put-downs can be just as damaging as physical abuse because they endanger a woman's feelings of self-worth and her ability to control her own life.

Social Abuse
This form of abuse occurs most frequently in a domestic situation where a woman is kept totally dependent on her partner and isolated from the support of others.

Financial AbuseA woman who is prevented from seeking employment, or who is not allowed to have a bank account or keep any of her income suffers financial abuse. Having no control of money keeps a woman totally dependent and at the whim of others, even for her basic needs.

Sexual Abuse
Being forced to do or watch something sexual without the woman's consent, or to have pain inflicted on a woman during a sexual act can constitute sexual abuse.

Physical Abuse
Hitting, punching, slapping, biting, kicking, bruising, breaking bones, throwing things and using weapons are obvious examples of physical abuse. The denial of human needs, such as food, water, sleep and even shelter are also forms of physical abuse.

Domestic ViolenceDomestic violence is an abuse of power. It is when one partner usually a boyfriend or husband attempts to control and dominate the other, usually a girlfriend or wife through violence, threat of violence, or by controlling the couple's finances and social life.

What can I do to help a victim of domestic violence?

As a friend, let her know she is not alone. Battered women feel they don't have anyone to talk to. Speak openly with her about your suspicions and encourage her to talk.

1. Be a telephone buddy. Women are often isolated and are not allowed to go out.
2. Read and collect brochures and information to pass on to her. Talk to others. The more you know about this problem the more you can offer to someone in need.
3. Talk with her about options and help her plan for crisis. Show belief in her ability to cope with change.
4. Support her no matter what she decides to do.
5. Provide a place for her and the children to stay for an afternoon or evening during tense times.
6. Provide transportation to shelter and safe homes.
7. Baby sit while she goes to lawyers or court, looks for housing, employment, etc.
8. Go to court and take notes and provide support.
9. Help her find housing. Help her on moving day, either from her house, or from a shelter to a new home.
10. Call the police if you hear a neighbor being battered.

What can I do as a victim of domestic violence to help myself?

1. Make an EMERGENCY PLAN. Make a plan of what to and where to go if you are in danger. Tell your children of your plan if they are old enough to understand.


2. Take your children with you if you can. If you must leave them temporarily, make sure they can join you as soon as possible. See a lawyer as ssoon as possible about custody.


3. Whatever your vehicle, make sure it has petrol. Keep an extra set of keys and emergency numbers in a secret hiding place.


4. Always keep some money hidden to help you get away.


5. Take identification, important papers and necessary medication for you and your children.


6. Keep a list of important phone numbers in the hiding place with your money.
7. Work out a code word that can be used on the phone with someone you trust if you are in danger.

The Cycle of Violence Theory

1. The build up – tension rises.


2. Stand over phase – the man becomes threatening.


3. The explosion – the violence occurs.


4. The remorse phase – the man is apologetic and promises never to do it again.


5. The pursuit – the man attempts to win the woman back by promising to change.


6. The honeymoon – things are calm and perhaps even loving.The build up – tension begins to rise again. It is interesting to note that some couples even decide to have another child during this phase as the woman sometimes believe that can help heal the relationship. DO NOT FALL FOR THIS. DO NOT COMPLICATE MATTERS BY BRINGING IN AN INNOCENT PARTY INTO THE PICTURE. DEAL WITH YOUR PROBLEMS FIRST, THE BABY CAN WAIT OR YOU CAN ADOPT.

To all you ladies out there....do not adopt this "I-don't-wan't-to-be-kaypochee (busy body)" attitude. Lives are at stake and it is your duty to help. If you think you cannot, please contact the Woman's Aid Organization (WAO). 

WAO Address:
P.O. Box 493 Jalan Sultan 46760 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan Malaysia.
WAO Centre:
+60 3 7957 5636 / 0636
Fax:
+60 3 7956 3237
Finance Dept:
+60 3 7958 5287
Fax:
+60 3 7958 6287
Email:wao@po.jaring.my

Counselling Line:
+60 3 7956 3488
+60 3 7960 3030

DO NOT PUT UP WITH VIOLENCE. PLEASE SPREAD THIS MESSAGE TO OUR FELLOW SISTERS OUT THERE. IF THIS CAN STOP AT LEAST ONE WOMAN FROM BEING A VICTIM OF VAW, THEN I WOULD NOT HAVE BLOGGED IN VAIN!

Ms Marie Callas

Ms Callas claims to be a Clairvoyant, Medium, Numerologist, Specialist In Astrology, Dowser, Author of numerous books and articles, Mage, Spirit.

I found out about Ms Callas quite by accident. While scanning the NST one day, I came across a little box ad that read “want to know your future?”. I immediately did some research on the Internet and learnt that Ms Callas has been listed as a "fraudster" in many countries, including Australia.

I have always been a level-headed person and believe in the maxim "if it is too good to be true, it probably is". Against my better judgement, I sent in my details and ever since then I've been indundated with letters promising riches by winning games of chance, etc. After sending in money thrice (RM100/request), I wrote her and said that I do not want to be on her mailing list any more as none of the promises have come true. I also said that as a Muslim, I do not play games of chance. In fact, I stopped short of calling her a fraud.

I know that by posting this on the Internet I am inviting possible condemnation from those so-called “Holier Than Thou” Religious Purists because as a Muslim, it is “shirk” to believe in fortune telling.

I am not sure how to describe "shirk". All sins are forgivable in Islam if the person sincerely repents to Allah. The thing that cannot be forgiven if the person does not repent of it before dying is shirk or taking partners with Allah. Allah says [Allah forgiveth not that partners should be set up with Him; but He forgiveth anything else, to whom He pleaseth; to set up partners with Allah is to devise a sin most heinous indeed] (An-Nisaa' 4:48).

The intent of this post is to share what Ms Callas told me while I was fighting for my life in hospital.

Amongst the pile of mail that I received from home today is a familiar nondescript looking envelope from a mailing company in the Hicom Glenmarie Industrial Park. All Ms Callas' letters (from Singapore) are delivered through a local address in Malaysia. She typically includes a pre-paid reply envelope, per below:

I would like to reproduce part of Ms Callas' letter below and let you decide what you think of Ms Callas. I have been (and still am) sceptical of Ms Callas because after paying RM300, nothing has happened. This letter has somewhat changed my views of Ms Callas as some of the things she said about my past are true. Here goes:

(My Name) – MAKE A WISH
Now – right away

I must speak to you without delay, about a very important on June 24, 2009.

Dear (My name),

I am looking at an old letter you sent me.

(In this letter, I told Ms Callas I will no longer subscribe to her services as I am not seeing any results. I stopped short of calling her a fraud).

Something has just happened that might come as a surprise to you – and it might be important enough to keep me up late, because it’s a matter of urgency.

In fact, according to the message that I received this evening about you, you are asking yourself a lot of questions at the moment. These are times of doubt. You are no longer sure exactly where you are now? Is that true?

If the answer is yes, in a few minutes I will tell you about the message I have received about you. But allow me to ask you this one thing: what do you intend to do to get out of this situation that is sapping your morale and health too?

Your response is vital, (my name), for your future and the future of a person who depends on you to a considerable extent. That’s why I must now tell you about some troubling issues concerning your personal life.

And as you will be able to see in a moment, if the message that I received about you is true, you are currently in what is known as an “ambivalent astral sphere” which is linked to the influence of the moon, currently in a configuration that it hasn’t seen for 29 years.

That’s why I have to give you a very serious warning.

On the other hand, if you are ready to hear the truth – and if you are ready to act within the next 48 hours, you will be able to benefit from this astral situation and experience something that could completely change your life, more radically than you could ever imagine.

Because although it may not appear to be the case, the changes that it announces could change your destiny and that of someone who is very important to you. You have no reason to worry. Quite the opposite.

Also, listen carefully to what I have to say before I reveal to you the message that I received for you:

Over the days and weeks to come, you (my name), along with those other rare individuals who were born on the same time as you, will experience, a strong vibratory influence linked to the astral phenomenon that I have just mentioned. And you can either benefit enormously from this “influence” and vastly improve your life, or you can do nothing about it, leaving yourself at the mercy of this influence, which could have unpredictable results.

Also, you must pay great attention to what I am going to tell you now. Because strangely, this dark period is also the best time to turn the course of your destiny around and launch yourself onto an ascending spiral of luck.

But do you really want it? Do you really want things to change for you? If you do, there are 3 actions that you must perform immediately.

Only after you have these will you be able to assimilate the message:
a) Take a moment to achieve total silence around you – or find a quiet place.
b)When you are calm, close your eyes for one minute, focus hard and visualise a change that you would like to see come about in your life. Then make a wish.
c) Open your eyes and continue reading this letter.

VERY IMPORTANT: Only read the rest of this letter after you have done these 3 things that I have just described, If you can’t do this now, come back and read it later.

Have you clearly visualised the change that you would like to happen? Have you made your wish? If you have, then we can begin. We are now going to get to the heart of the matter.

Of course, (my name), considering your past, the obstacles that you have had to overcome, I know that you have become a sceptic, a person who no longer believes that things can change. On this point, I must confess that I too might thought this, if all I had to go on was your astral chart.

But what has just happened has completely changed my perception of you.

This evening, because of this lunar configuration I just mentioned, I performed a very special ritual. And it was during this ritual that the name (my name), and I looked for one of your old letters.

This thing that has just happened is very special. In my life as a clairvoyant and medium, I have seen it no more than a dozen times.

First of all, I had several very clear visions. And suddenly, something impelled me to write to you, as if an invisible hand had taken hold of me. And despite my tiredness, the words ran across the paper as if someone else was guiding my hand and dictating to me what I should write for you.

Are you ready? The message that I have to give you is not from me (I am only an intermediary). Here is the message that I taped on a recorder, because the paper on which I wrote it is almost unreadable:

(My name), for you today is not a day like all the others. It is an opportunity to repeat to you things you already know and reveal to you things you do not know. You possess within you gifts and potential that nature has given you and that you have never truly been able to realise. And you know it. First of all, your family life has for a long time been quite an ordeal for you. Your parents often gave you the impression, without really meaning to, that you were the cause of their arguments. It’s not that they wished you any harm, but you often felt hurt, and as if you couldn’t live up to their expectations. And you rebuked yourself although you were just a child who wanted to please.

This period of your life, your first fifteen years in total, created a blockage inside you that has not only stopped you from really fulfilling your potential, it has also followed you throughout your life, right through to the present. Whether this your love life or your material wealth, you have never really felt that you had the chances that others had, And sometimes, you perhaps even envy some people.

Today, (my name), you are at a turning point in your life. BUT YOU DO NOT KNOW IT. You are currently guided by important astral influences that are intensifying.

You must realise that if you do what you need to do to help yourself, your life will change completely and your dearest wish will come true over the course of the next 90 days, at the time when you least expect it. Pay close attention, and above all, don’t allow this vital moment pass you by”.

That, dear (my name), is the message that I have received for you. You will now understand why time is so important. Why we have to act.

In fact, we have to act very specifically on 24 June 2009, between 9pm and midnight.

For my part, what I have to do, on 24 June 2009 between 9pm and midnight, is repeat the same ritual that I have just performed this evening. By this time, you must be with me in thought and hold in your hands the Sacred Crystal that I will send you and which will act as a telepathic link between you and me.

At the same time, I will also send you my secret instruction manual, which contains an easy to follow guide for charging your mind with magnetic vibrations, so that it will have the instinctive power to act on luck, money and destiny.

But I need to ask you one question before I send you all these, (my name).
Are you prepared to devote 15 minutes of your time on 24 June 2009 at exactly midnight? If your answer is YES, let me tell you what is going to happen to you when the ritual has been performed:

Firstly, you are going to notice a great transformation in somebody you have been concerned about, somebody you are close to and who I have seen very clearly. This person’s behaviour towards you will suddenly change. Warmer, nicer and more attentive. At first, you might certainly find it difficult to believe. And it will be several weeks before you realise to your surprise that this person really does hold you in new, higher, esteem.

Secondly, you will enter into what I call a “phase of ascending fortune”. This means that new opportunities will appear along your path, particularly in the ares of games of chance and influxes of cash. And in difference to what has often been the case in the past, this time you will know to grasp these opportunities and take advantage of them.

In reality, (my name), it will be as if you have a revelation, a little inner voice that guides you and enables you to choose the right numbers and the right times to play successfully, for example.

Thirdly, you will receive some news from far away, and which you have been dreaming of for around 3 years. This will seem like a miracle to you, because you had given up hoping that it would happen. And that will change many things in your day to day life which, I know, is not exactly full of cheer at the moment.

Fourthly, every time you need it, you will be able to come into direct contact with the “cosmic energy”.

Do you know what that will mean for you, (my name)?

Imagine for a moment your life if, for example, when you felt tired, all you needed was a few minutes to recharge your energy. Or even, imagine that when you were in doubt about something, wondering what to do, you could withdraw for a moment and suddenly, everything would become clear as if by magic. The answers to your questions coming of their own accord.

Not only will you feel stronger, more sure of yourself, you will feel constantly in harmony with yourself and the world around you.

Fifthly, this is perhaps the most important one, which I have saved for last: You will see your wish come true in days or at the latest within the 9 weeks following your ritual. This will mean an enormous change for you. This event you had given up waiting for will finally allow your inner being to be truly fulfilled. That will increase your self confidence.

And finally, from now on, by placing my Sacred Crystal in your home, you be one of the protected ones. You will be spared some unpleasant event that could at present affect you.

What are you going to decide to do now? Do you want to join the ranks of those who finally get what they have been waiting for all their life?

Or would you prefer to continue to struggle on with the cares and problems that might even get worse in the weeks and months to come, if you don’t act now?

Whatever your choice, I will respect it. But it is up to you to make that choice. I can’t make it for YOU.

That’s why I can’t send out what I have prepared for you without your permission. And I won’t perform the telepathic ritual, unless you agree to do it with me on June 24, 2009......"

I did not accept her offer of help.

THE POWER OF PRAYERS

Today (May 28) I have been in hospital for 22 continuous days (9 days in APSH and the rest in HUKM). I feel that my system is still rather sluggish. There is still a lot of gas giving me the bloated feeling. I am ambulating well and I walk around with a drainage bag as bile is still flowing out of my system. Everyday, I work with a physiotherapist to work those muscles that have not been used since I was on my back all the time. Every hour, I also do lung excercises with a triflowmeter to strengthen my lungs.

A friend called one night and asked me to carry out some special prayers (Sembahyang Tahajud, Wittir and Duha) and seek divine intervention and pray for a quick recovery.

Tahajud is carried after waking up from sleep, between 3 am and 5 am and it is followed by Witir. Duha must be carried out between 8am to noonish the next day. During Tahajud, I felt like my whole system was a tsunami at the bottom of the sea. There was a lot of rumbling, and by the end of it, I was physically exhausted. The following morning, the nurses were surprised that I had excreted 500ml of bile instead of the usual 100ml. Through tears of realisation, repentance and remorse I completed Tahajud at 4 am. And I have now decided that I will perform the Haj this year, if my doctor can give me the green light - insya’allah. I have never felt such strong emotions after prayers and this has led me to reflect on my life so far. I now realise that for the past 20 years since my late husband died, I have been walking around like a lost, wounded, soul – empty of any strong belief in my religion.

I have never been particularly religious. Yes, I pray (mostly not 5 times a day), fast, and paid zakat (tithes) but that was about it. Today, for the first time in my life, I realise that while money can buy you comfort and material things, it cannot compensate for a soul void of a strong religious belief – regardless of what that belief is.

Such is the power of prayers. This brings to mind one of the invocations during the Tawaf on my recent Umrah. While circling the Kaabah, I said “Ya Allah! Berilah aku peluang untuk menunaikan Haji sebelum aku kembali menemuiMu!” (Allah! Give me the opportunity to perform the Haj before I return to be with Thee!). This doa is also recited in every prayer that I perform. I beseech thee ya Allah….to grant me this wish!

Wind Out Of My Sail - Part IV

It was a trip I will always remember. During the drive to Penang, although we had a business agenda, all we talked about was the gastronomic adventure awaiting us and visions of nasi kandaq, lien chee kang, apom, rojak and tea at E&O Hotel danced before our eyes! Torah and I recalled with nostalgia our experience growing up in Penang way back when....

Upon arrival, after a brief meeting, we had a great lunch of nyonya food, courtesy of Dr. Noraini, at a marina (can't remember the name now). We then checked into the apartment and that night had a sumptious seafood dinner, courtesy of Dr. Noraini's friend, Kate. After dinner, I felt a slight pain in the right side of my abdomen but thought nothing of it.

Dr. Noraini, Torah & Amran at lunch

The next morning, Sujan took us to Pasar Pulau Tikus which is just a short walk from the apartment for breakfast consisting of apom and teh tarik at a mamak stall. Later, inspite of the pain, I managed to join Torah in doing our part to contribue to the economy of Pulau Pinang - between us, we bought pisang raja, bunga kantan, asam jawa, asam keping, belacan, penyapu ruman (broom!) and even a pair of fake designer reading glasses!

As the pain became more acute, especially when I stood up or bent to pick up something, I took a painkiller and even applied medicated plaster, thinking that I had a muscle pull.

When we got to Dr. Noraini's office, I went to a clinic and the doctor said it could be stones in the gall bladder. He asked me to get it checked when I return to KL and gave me a jab to tide me over the journey home.

We managed to conclude our meeting but half an hour later, the pain became worse - it was excruciating and had spread to my back....I imagined that was how it felt when being stabbed by a knife! At this point, we decided to forego lunch (there goes the long-awaited nasi kandaq!) and return to KL.

Before returning to KL, I was taken to Gleneagles Hospital's A&E Unit for an ultrasound scan to determine if I was in a condition to travel. The scan confirmed that I had a stone in my gall bladder, about 1.5 cm in diameter. I was given another jab to last until I return to KL.

At Gleneagles' A&E Unit

The next day, I consulted a surgeon at Ampang Puteri Hospital and was wheeled into the operation theatre at 11.30 am for a surgery. That was my 12th surgery in the last 20 years and I am frankly very tired of getting anaesthesized and cut up! Thoughts of "why me?" have begun to creep in but I must be strong and fight them.

The culprit!

During my hospital stay, Torah lent me a book by Dr. Robert C. Fulford titled Touch of Life. Dr. Fulford is a proponent of osteopathy - healing by releasing blockages in the muscoskeletal systems. It is an alternative form of medicine and I am now willing to try alternative medicine to avoid any more surgeries in future. Also, it is time to seriously lose weight and watch my diet!

I Dreamed A Dream...

The latest U Tube singing sensation, Susan Boyle, 47, has taken the world by storm with her perfect performance of "I Dream A Dream" from Les Miserables at Britain's Got Talent Reality show recently (see link below):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

The audience's initial response to Susan was cruel. When the 47-year old frumpy and goofy looking spinster from West Lothian, Scotland, which she described as a collection of villages, appeared on stage and said she dreamt of singing like Elaine Page, many in the audience snickered and talent judge Simon Cowell rolled his eyes. However, when she opened her mouth and belted the first few lines...the audience were ecstatic with appreciation of her moving, emotional and uplifting performance. The rest, as they say, is history.

Starmaker Simon Cowell is now thinking of pairing Susan with Paul Potts, last year's Britain's Got Talent winner, to sing a duet. Potts, an obscure cell phone salesman, shot to stardom when he won the talent show with his operatic voice.

"Don't judge a book by its cover" comes to mind when one reflects on the moral of this story. However, the sad reality is that in today's age- and looks-obsessed world, talent often takes a back seat if it is not packaged with youth and looks.

Susan first sang "Cry Me A River" in a church charity CD in 1999 but did not make any impact at that time, probably also due to inadequate marketing. With the advent of Internet marketing tools, a star is born!

http://www.susan-boyle.com/video/Susan-Boyle-Cry-Me-A-River-HQ

Culture Shock In Makkah...

It is the holiest place in Islam where people from all over the world come to perform their religious obligation - the Hajj. It is also a place where believers perform the 'Umrah which is considered a 'mini' Hajj. I had been warned by many (including my mother) who have been to Makkah that I can expect to be pushed and shoved by the crowd that are usually millions in number.

However, I did not expect to find people who are actually RUDE, and to make it worse, they are women. There were many occasions when late-comers would push their way to get a place in the congregation that is already in line for the prayers. Instead of nicely asking to be accommodated in the line, they would just push others and loudly scold in their mother tongue if we don't give way; as if they have more right to the place than the rest of us who made the extra effort to be early.

I have been warned that these are "tests" to our patience which we should take in our stride and we should not get angry but it is humanly impossible not to be angry. Would you not be angry if someone crosses over/pushes your head while you are prostrating in your prayer? Or if someone crosses over your bag placed in front of you that holds the holy Quran?

There was one occasion when the mosque was packed and I had to pray on the steps of the mosque (in the women's section) as I had just completed the Tawaf. A group of Middle Eastern men wanted to pass in front of me and although they were able to do so, they insisted that I stand up and make way for them. I gestured in sign language that they could pass without my having to stand but they started abusing me in their mother tongue (I knew they were abusive from their facial expressions) so I had to give way. I should not have been surprised by their behavior as women have no standing in their society, but it still makes me wince thinking about how I was treated.

There are separate Zam Zam drinking stations outside Masjid al-Haram for men and women but the men over-ran the women's station and when women tried to go near, they were shooed away as if they had no right to be there. There were police personnel around but no one made any attempt to tell the men they don't belong there.

I could not help but wonder why some people behaved the way they did in the house of Allah - Islam is a peaceful religion and if we submit ourselves to Allah and ask for his forgiveness, should we then turn around and abuse our fellow mankind?

Journey to the Holy Land

It was a journey I had planned to embark upon two years ago but had to be postponed due to unforseen circumstances so it was with trepidation that I made the journey to the Holy Land for the 'Umrah recently.

The 'Umrah (or Arabic: عمرة‎) is a pilgrimage to Mecca (now known as Makkah) performed by Muslims that can be undertaken at any time of the year. In Arabic 'Umrah means “to visit a populated place”. As a technical term used in the Shari’ah, 'Umrah means to perform Tawaf of Ka'bah and Sa'i between Al-Safa and Al-Marwah, after assuming Ihram, either from a Miqat or a place in Hill.

It is sometimes called the 'minor pilgrimage' or 'lesser pilgrimage', the Hajj being the 'major' pilgrimage and which is compulsory for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it. The 'Umrah is not compulsory but highly recommended and is a good preparation for the Hajj.

We left KLIA at about 3.30 p.m. and arrived at Jeddah at around 8 p.m. After collecting our luggage, we took off on a five-hour-plus journey by bus towards Madinah.

En route, we stopped at an R&R in the middle of nowhere - we dubbed this the P&P (Padang Pasir) stop - and had our first taste of things to come. The place offered only Middle Eastern food such as rice and bread with grilled chicken or lamb...at exhorbitant prices. A plate of rice with a half small-sized chicken cost RM17 and a glass of sweet tea cost RM2 (the current Saudi Riyal ex-rate is on par with the Ringgit). The helping of rice is very generous; enough for three adults but with a half small-sized chicken, it was only adequate for two adults.

We arrived Madinah Al-Munawarrah (literally: Glittering Madinah) at 2 a.m. the next day and all of us were exhausted from the 8-hour flight and 5-hour bus ride. Our hotel was located about 300 meters from the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi).

Masjid al-Nabawi at dawn

By the time we checked-in, it was about 3 a.m. and outside the hotel, we could see streams of people heading towards Masjid al-Nabawi for subuh (dawn) prayers which starts at 4 a.m.

Masjid al-Nabawi is the second holiest mosque in Islam and the second largest mosque in the world after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. It is the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Masjid al-Haram in Mecca is the holiest and the largest mosque and the Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem is the third holiest in Islam.

The first time I stepped into Masjid al-Nabawi was an awesome experience - the marble architecture is magnificent and it is large enough to hold a congregation of more than a half million people. Praying at the mosque for the first time was also an emotional experience; it gives one a sense of closeness to the Creator and I felt at peace with myself. There was nothing else to think about except to prostrate towards Ka'bah and ask Allah for his forgiveness and blessings.

The magnificent architecture of Masjid al-Nabawi

While in Madinah, we visited several historical sites:

Jabal Uhud (Uhud Mountain)

The historic Battle of Uhud was fought between the non-believing Quraysh tribe of Makkah and the Muslims of Madinah in the vicinity of Jabal Uhud. This war was revenge by the Qurayshis for their earlier defeat at the Battle of Bad'r.

At Uhud Mountain, fifty bowmen were stationed as a line of defence with specific instructions to hold their line whether they won or lost, until further instructions. A fierce battle ensued and the Muslims fought valiantly although they were outnumbered. As they were winning the battle, the sight of the fleeing Qurayshi army was too much for most of the faithful.

Before them lay the booty of the Qurayshi army and ignoring the insturctions of their commanders, they rushed to claim their share. Even the bowmen left their assigned positions to join in the search for the spoils of war.

The Qurayshi army took advantage of this indiscipline and attacked the high ground, and quickly broke through what was left of the Muslim defensive formation.

Jabal Uhud is in the background

Al-Qiblatain Mosque (Mosque with Two Qiblahs)

We did not visit Al-Qiblatain Mosque in Madinah; however it was pointed out to us. It is one of the oldest mosques in Islamic history. It is the mosque in which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was commanded to face the Ka`bah in his Prayers instead of Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. Al-Qiblatain Mosque is thus uniquely structured with two mihrabs (Arabic for: niche indicating the direction of Makkah), one facing Makkah and the other facing Jerusalem.

Rawdah

The heart of the Masjid Al-Nabawi houses a very special but small area named ar-Rawdah an-Nabawiyah, which extends from Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) tomb to his pulpit. Close companions of the Prophet, Abu Bakr as-Siddiq and Umar ibn al-Khattab, who fought the Battle of Uhud with him, were buried in an adjacent area.

Pilgrims attempt to visit and pray in ar-Rawdah, for there is a tradition that supplications and prayers uttered here are never rejected. Entrance into ar-Rawdah is not always possible (especially during the Hajj season), as the tiny area can accommodate only a few hundred people.

The Rawdah is opened to female visitors from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily and the pushing and shoving to get inside was a monumental test of patience. As a few of us had our cameras and handphones, I was forced to wait outside for one a half hours with the cameras and handphones to allow the others to pray at the Rawdah before I could go in.

Group photo before entering the Rawdah

Before leaving Madinah for Makkah, we prayed at the Rawdah one more time as farewell and to request Allah to enable our return for another visit.

Miqat

We stayed in Madinah for 2 nights and on the third day, we proceeded to Makkah by bus at about 3 p.m. At this time, we were in Ihram, a sacred state which a Muslim must enter in order to perform the Hajj/Umrah. A pilgrim must enter into this state before crossing the pilgrimage boundary, known as Miqat, by performing the cleansing rituals and wearing the prescribed attire.

For men, the Ihram is an unhemmed white wrap-around robe held by a belt. It is to signify that all men are equal before Allah and it is unhemmed similar to the white cloth Muslims are wrapped in for their burial. For the women, Ihram is typically a long, white robe although they are free to choose other colors as well. We stopped for Miqat by performing prayers at Bir Ali Mosque, about 9 k.m. from the city of Madinnah.

Masjid Bir Ali

From Bir Ali onwards to Makkah, the entire busload recited the Talbiyah, which is a prayer invoked by pilgrims as a conviction that they intend to perform the Hajj only for the glory of Allah. Talbiyah is repeatedly invoked during theHajj/'Umrah, upon putting on the Ihram, so the pilgrims can purify and rid themselves of worldly concerns. This ritual was spiritually uplifting as we continued our way towards Makkah.

The text of the talbiyah is:

Labbaika Allahumma Labbaik. Labbaik La Shareeka Laka Labbaik. Innal-Hamdah, Wan-Nematah, Laka wal Mulk, La Shareeka Laka.

Translation:
"Here I am at Thy service O Lord, here I am. Here I am at Thy service and Thou hast no partners. Thine alone is All Praise and All Bounty, and Thine alone is The Sovereignty. Thou hast no partners."

We arrived at Makkah Al-Mukarrama (literally: Honoured Makkah) at about 9 p.m. After checking into our hotel, we freshened up and had dinner before performing the 'Umrah at Masjid Al-Haram (the Grand Mosque).

Masjid Al-Haram by Night

Five Star hotels have sprouted at the doorsteps of Masjid Al-Haram

Tawaf

The Umrah ritual starts with a prayer and then we proceeded to do the Tawaf (طواف) around the Ka'bah. The Tawaf is one of the rituals of the Hajj and 'Umrah. Pilgrims are to circumambulate the Ka'bah (the holiest building in Makkah) seven times, in an anti-clockwise direction.

The circling is believed to demonstrate the unity of the believers in the worship of the One God, as they move in harmony together around their central shrine, while supplicating to God "Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik". During this time, Muslims also pray for forgiveness and it is believed that supplications and prayers uttered here are never rejected by Allah.

We completed the Tawaf at about 1 a.m. and inspite of the late hour, the crowd was massive. There must have been about 1 million people when we were there, inspite of this being the low season for pilgrims to visit Makkah.

As a consquence, we were pushed and shoved by larger sized Arabs and others as pilgrims try to get as close as possible to the Hajar-ul-Aswad (Black Stone) in the eastern corner of the Ka'bah. When pilgrims circle the Ka'bah during Tawaf, many of them try, if possible, to stop and kiss the Black Stone, emulating the kiss that it received from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). If they cannot reach it, they are to point to it on each of their seven circuits around the Ka'bah.

After Tawaf with the Ka'bah in the background

Sa'ee (or Sa'i)

Sa'i (ritual walk) is done seven times between the hills of Al-Safa and Al-Marwah, which are now housed in a long gallery within the Masjid Al-Haram.

In Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim was commanded by Allah to leave his wife Siti Hajar and their infant son alone in the desert, with only basic provisions, to test their faith. The desert place was between the Al-Safa and the Al-Marwah hills. When their provisions were exhausted, Siti Hajar went in search of help or water.

To make her search easier and faster, she went alone, leaving the infant Ismail on the ground. She first climbed the nearest hill, Al-Safa, to look over the surrounding area. When she saw nothing, she then went to the another hill, Al-Marwah, to look around.

While Siti Hajar was on either hillside, she was able to see Ismail and knew he was safe. However, when she was in the valley between the hills she was unable to see her son. Thus Siti Hajar would run while in the valley between the hills and walk at a normal pace while on the hillsides.

Siti Hajar travelled back and forth between the hills seven times in the scorching heat before she returned to Ismail. When she arrived, she found that a spring had sprouted forth from the crying baby kicking at the sand with his feet. This spring is now known as the Zam Zam Well and there is an endless supply of Zam Zam water for pilgrims to drink at the mosque.

The distance between Safa and Marwah is about 450 meters so that seven trips amount to roughly 3.15 km. Pilgrims are expected to walk although the infirmed may use wheelchairs which can be rented with someone pushing for 40 Saudi Riyals for the entire ritual. Men are required to slowly sprint between the two hills, to emulate Siti Hajar's run when searching for water.

Pilgrims performing the Sa'ee

We completed the 'Umrah ritual by 3.30 a.m. and stayed on in the mosque to await the Subuh (dawn) prayers which start at about 5 a.m. After prayers, we returned to the hotel for breakfast and crashed for the rest of the morning (by that time, we had been awake for more than 24 hours!) before mid-day prayers at 12.30 p.m.

The following day, we decided to perform another 'Umrah (there are no limits on the number of 'Umrahs one can perform, the more the better). This time, we went to the town of Ta'naim (one of the boundries of the sacred territory of Makkah) for the Miqat. Ta'naim is about a 10-minutes bus ride outside of Makkah and the fare is 2 SR. For the third 'Umrah, we went to the historic town of Ja'aranah where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had his Miqat.

The rest of our stay was spent praying at Masjid Al-Haram with some sightseeing in between.

Jabal Al-Rahma (Mountain of Mercy)

Jabal Al-Rahma is a hill in the Plains of Arafat outside Makkah from which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave his last sermon 14 centuries ago. Pilgrims visit the Plains of Arafat before proceeding to Mudzalifah for the stoning of the Devil.

This is considered the highlight of the Hajj. Pilgrims must spend the afternoon within a defined area on the plain of Arafat until after sunset. No specific rituals or prayers are required during the stay at Arafat, although many pilgrims spend time praying, and thinking about the course of their lives. If a pilgrim does not spend the afternoon on Arafat, then their pilgrimage is considered invalid.

Colorfully-decorated camels available for rides at the foot of Jabal Al-Rahma

We spent the next six days in Makkah praying at Masjid Al-Haram and shopping for souvenirs in between. These shopping trips, mainly by the ladies, became known as Tawaf Kedai.

The 'Umrah trip, although exhausting, is an eye-opening experience for me. It is a test of patience (being jostled in the crowd), stamina (making 10 daily trips to the mosque and back to the hotel - a distance of about 700 meters each way), goodwill (at the Zam Zam drinking stations, although it was my turn, I had to hand out drinks to hands reaching out behind me) and discipline (waking up at 3 a.m. every day to make sure we get a place at the mosque for Subuh prayers). Before leaving Makkah, we did a final Tawaf.

I now have a better appreciation of the rituals of the Hajj/'Umrah and their significance and I look forward to performing the Hajj in the near future...insya'allah.

You Know Times Are Hard When....

Life's Journey...

While I was consoling a bereaved ex-colleague whose husband had passed on, my mobile phone beeped with the message that another friend from way back when also passed on in Kelantan.

This evening, I am going to the hospital to visit a friend's daughter whose newborn baby, her fourth child, was warded due to breathing difficulties and who, hereself, had been warded due to post-partum blues.

The deceased were in their late fifties while the young mother is in her mid-thirties.

The wheel of life goes on...what goes up must come down...the once young and nubile is now old...and the healthy becomes sick. The cycle is unstoppable; we just have to go with the flow...and hope that our time on earth does not come to naught...aah...life's journey!

Rusty Rollers

It is a game I used to excel at more than twenty years ago and I have many trophies to show for my competitive standing back then. So, when a friend asked me to participate in a ten-pin bowling competition last week-end, I did not hesitate. I managed to coax two of my friends, Audie and Mahani, to join me in forming a team.

My bowling bag, which can accommodate two balls, had to be dusted and cleaned as it had gathered dust and cobwebs in the store room. Two balls, why would one need two balls to bowl? Well, according to the pros, one ball is for strikes and the other for spares but it turned out that strikes and spares were few and far between on that day.

We went to the bowling alley early so as to practice because we did not want to be an embarassment since all of us had not bowled for years. Our scores were not too bad so we were really looking forward to the competition.

There were 100 competitors, men and women, and the women were given a handicap of 20 pinfalls as we had to compete with the men. Each competitor had to bowl 3 games.

We did not do too badly considering that we were competing against regular bowlers but during the second game, aches and pains started to surface. It was a torture to finish the third game and boy, were we glad when we did!

Including the practice games, I had bowled a total of 5 games. Assuming that I needed two throws for every frame and spared in the last frame, I would have swung my ball 105 times for the 5 games. To put it in perspective, swinging a 13-pounder 105 times and balancing on one knee when delivering the ball can cause all kinds of aches - to the thighs, upper arms, neck and back!

The real impact of bowling 5 games was felt the next day - I came down with the flu while the other two had to take painkillers just to be able to move around. Moving around felt like a robot due to all the stiffness!

Much as we had a lot of fun during the game, we all unanimously agreed on one thing - NEVER AGAIN!

My Favorite Things

Those of you who had seen the movie "Sound of Music" must remember the song "My Favorite Things" in that movie made popular by actress/singer, Julie Andrews. Ms. Andrews turned 69 recently and to commemorate her birthday, she made a special appearance at Manhattan 's Radio City Music Hall for the benefit of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). One of the musical numbers she performed was "My Favorite Things" with lyrics appropriate for a 69er. Sing it, and you will see how hilarious the song is!

Botox and nose drops and needles for knitting,

Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,

Bundles of magazines tied up in string,

These are a few of my favorite things.

Cadillacs and cataracts, hearing aids and glasses,

Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,

Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,

These are a few of my favorite things.

When the pipes leak, when the bones creak,

When the knees go bad,

I simply remember my favorite things,

And then I don't feel so bad.

Hot tea and crumpets and corn pads for bunions,

No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,

Bathrobes and heating pads and hot meals they bring,

These are a few of my favorite things.

Back pain, confused brains and no need for sinnin',

Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',

And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,

When we remember our favorite things.

When the joints ache, when the hips break,

When the eyes grow dim,

Then I remember the great life I've had,

And then I don't feel so bad.

Well, Ms. Andrews....the truth sure hurts....ouch!