Knotty issue
Most people wear ties while attending meetings. That is fine. But if you happen to visit an office without one, be prepared to be ignored by the receptionist who may simply ask you to take a seat or come back later, ostensibly because the "manager is in a meeting". However, if your attire includes a tie, he or she will ask for your name and the company you are representing, and the chances are you would be able to meet the person concerned in a matter of minutes. There would be no need for a "special appointment". So please, never forget to wear a tie. It is more important than you think.
From Mr Thottikamath Balaram
Dubai
Parking lots in Abu Dhabi
While I applaud the way Abu Dhabi is developing with its new building projects, I raise the issue of the lack of parking spaces required to accommodate the ever increasing number of vehicles. People are parking in ridiculous places, on corners, blocking off access to main highways, thereby causing problems. In addition to this, cars are getting seriously damaged by inconsiderate drivers. Can we have some decent parking lots?
From Mr Frederick M.
Abu Dhabi
No need to know
As it was Earth Hour, I switched off all the lights in our house and took my dog for a long walk. However, some time into walking, I couldn't help but stop and smile. We had walked past a house that was lit like a festive tree, with millions of bulbs illuminating the residence. I guess not everyone was aware of the need to observe Earth Hour!
From Mr Claude Hoffmann
Dubai
A difference to me
I am glad I observed Earth Hour by switching off all the electrical appliances at home. Though I observed it for a larger cause, I enjoyed a few things I would have otherwise missed. Sitting on the balcony, I was able to relish the sweet fragrance of the jasmine flowers from the plant that my wife has been nurturing for years. In the stillness of the evening, I tried to count the raindrops in the gentle drizzle. The darkened sky took me down memory lane to my hometown and the summer rain. With no television to act as a distraction, I was able to hear the music of my heart. Unlike other days, I actually listened to my daughter and the concerns of my wife rather than just hearing them out. My participation in Earth Hour may have made a small difference to the world but it made a big difference to me. I have decided to observe Earth Hour once every month.
From Mr C. Sunil Roy
Dubai
A point of view
This is with reference to the letter by Mr R.N. ("Commercial death", Gulf News, March 27). I agree that commercialising Jade Goody's last few days was unattractive. However, this is what she insisted on. According to her publicist Max Clifford and many comments in various media, she wanted to highlight her situation to earn money for her children's future. Not everyone agrees but it seemed as though this was one of Jade's last wishes.
From a Reader
Sharjah
Name withheld by request
Bad for the image
Last week, while going to school I noticed that there was a lot of water on the streets and the roads. I think Sharjah should have some sewers or else it will be really hard for residents or tourists that visit Sharjah to be mobile.
This could in turn ruin Sharjah's image and decrease tourism. I hope the concerned authorities take corrective measures as soon as possible. If they do and all works well, it will be really good for the residents.
From Mr Syed Saadullah
Sharjah
Do not give up!
I wonder why people get upset if they fail a number of times in their driving tests ("A drive free of worry," Gulf News, March 27).
It's not the end. We learn from our mistakes and the more we try, the better we will be at being successful. We should not get upset just because we have failed, but must take it up as a challenge and do the best for the next test.
This will give you more confidence, so why demotivate and underestimate your self? All the best to those who are still waiting. Keep trying.
From Mr Mathew L.
Dubai
