September 30, 2008

Great relief
When I read that the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan promoted sustainable living and was a champion of the Earth, I immediately added his name to my list of heroes ("Zayed vision: Transforming desert into green haven", Gulf News, September 21). His work should be continued, as the world needs more trees, plants and flowers. Additionally, pollinators are vital to the environment as well. Earlier this year, I noticed only about five bees near my home. When they disappeared, I learned that it was because of the effect of a certain pesticide. However, during the summer, I ensured that the bees had access to an adequate supply of cold water from my birdbath. It was a relief to see them coming in droves to my garden, once again.
From Ms Olga Ann
USA

Lost essence
Recently, I won a voucher for free iftar dinner at a hotel. However, when I arrived at the hotel, I was shocked to find myself in a very un-Islamic atmosphere. There were no arrangements for prayer right after the breaking of fast and many women were scantily dressed. Additionally, it seemed like most people were just there to make a fashion statement or to impress their colleagues and peers. It was very embarrassing, as my elderly parents had also accompanied me to the hotel. What happened to the true essence of Ramadan and the simplicity of its traditions?
From Mr Firoz Ahmad
Ras Al Khaimah

Linked senses
Our sense of smell definitely adds an important aspect to our sense of well-being ("Smell roses to dream sweet", Gulf News, September 23). There is a definite link between our sensitivity to smells and our thoughts, especially as the human mind is so complex and reflective. I believe pleasant smells allow us to think positively and this often results in good actions as well. For instance, incense sticks are an important part of many religions, and flowers have also been used in places of worship. Such traditions invoke positive feelings in people and have been carried on through centuries.
From Ms Naina Nair
Sharjah

Trails to the past
Responding to sights, sounds and smells is part of the psychological theory of classical conditioning. People often become nostalgic when listening to old songs. Additionally, pleasant smells, originating from lavender and other flowers, are often associated with good events. Most of us smell certain sweets and are transported back to marriages and other traditional gatherings, while the smell of cake allows us to immediately recollect birthday parties. I think it is natural to associate sensory perceptions with events from our past. From Mr P. S. Vasudevan
Dubai

No moral values
I was shocked to read Gulf News's report on youngsters who assaulted women with firecrackers ("Firecrackers thrown at pregnant women", Gulf News, September 22). What entertainment could these reckless youth possibly get by terrifying helpless women and recording their reactions on mobile phones? I think the absence of moral values in the youngsters has caused them to participate in such heinous acts. It is distressing to note that they are behaving as if they are devoid of a conscience. They deserve harsh punishment if they have no qualms about endangering the lives of others.
From Ms Anjoo Sharon Navin
Dubai

Children at risk
While traffic regulations in the UAE are well monitored and implemented, problems begin to arise when motorists engage in reckless driving. Additionally, I have noticed that children often place themselves in a position of danger. In my building's parking lot, when a motorist tries to reverse out of the parking space, he or she is bound to find a child in the way. If parents keep an eye on their children, such dangerous situations would not occur.
From Mr Zuhoor Al Haq
Sharjah

Bad attitude
Even in Ramadan, I have observed that many motorists continue to speed and drive recklessly. Most people seem to have absolutely no consideration for others and behave extremely rudely. I witness this bad attitude every morning, when I drive my children to school, and then again at about 2pm when we return home. Motorists tend to be most inconsiderate when there is heavy traffic on the roads and they are trying to reach home. I truly hate driving in such situations, as it becomes very stressful.
From Ms Melanie RaymerUAE

Cost of relief
As a Karama resident, I appreciate the introduction of paid parking spaces in the area, unlike Ms Litty Mathew, who complained about the same ("Streamline process", Gulf News, September 24). Streets neighbouring our own were integrated into the paid parking system, recently. However, our street - which has no parking meters - is always packed with cars, with some vehicles even double-parked. This poses a great inconvenience to residents, especially because those who park correctly are unable to exit the parking area due to lack of space. It's time we realised that all good things come at a price. I welcome paid parking in residential areas.
From Mr Manoj Mathew
Dubai

Great aspirations
Gulf News's comment on Gordon Brown, the United Kingdom's prime minister, seemed like a lamentation ("Brown loses the ear of the White House", Gulf News, September 22). The UK has lost its role of playing second-fiddle to the belligerent United States. However, if the UK is losing its position of power in the global arena, Brown should be advised on how to tackle the problem and must work to elevate the country's economic and social standing. Britain is a historically powerful nation and even today, it should aspire to be an independent force.
From Ms Sheetal Thomas
Ajman