From the Magazine Editor

It all boils down to the basics; the abc of it all. There are two particularly telling instances of this in this issue. One is in the exemplary dynamism of Eman Ghanem, a school teacher in Al Sil'a, who has proved how an individual can make a difference in society – in this case, the beneficiary is the environment, and to trace the loop back to the beginning, society itself (pages 10-14).

Scaling the mountain formed of the rocks of debates, discussions, polemics and polarities of thought on a major issue is not just an ordeal, it could take you nowhere in particular.

Instead, walking a clear flat path of individual endeavour takes you straight to the destination. People like Eman, Gianna and Dina are proof that the greatest change is brought about by the smallest first step.

The other instance of simple truths lies in the article on human touch (pages 46-47). A thousand sweet, warm, carefully-chosen words of endearment or a plain, tight hug? A dozen intellect-fired analyses of spousal spats or a loving caress to say you are sorry?

What wins the day is simply conveying affection through touch. Research says that our nerves are conditioned to respond to tender tactile expressions, not harsh 'tac'tics of authority.

Nature intended for us to lead simple lives. It wired the human mind and the environment in simple circuitry. But, somewhere along the way, we rewired the whole board and there seems to be an overload...

If you want to air your views, write to:
To the Editor,
Friday, Gulf News,
P.O. Box 6519, Dubai, UAE.

Fax: 04-3441627.
E-mail: friday@gulfnews.com

Letters to the Editor must include your name, address, daytime telephone number and signature. Anonymous letters will not be published. Letters that are published, may be edited and/or excerpted. Due to space constraints, ensure that your letters are of reasonable length.