ஜென்மம் நிறைந்தது சென்றவர் வாழ்க

ஜென்மம் நிறைந்தது சென்றவர் வாழ்க

சிந்தை கலங்கிட வந்தவர் வாழ்க

நீரில் மிதந்திடும் கண்களும் காய்க

நிம்மதி நிம்மதி இவ்விடம் சூழ்க!

ஜனனமும் பூமியில் புதியது இல்லை

மரணத்தைப் போல் ஒரு பழையதும் இல்லை

இரண்டுமில்லாவிடில் இயற்கையும் இல்லை

இயற்கையின் ஆணைதான் ஞானத்தின் எல்லை

பாசம் உலாவிய கண்களும் எங்கே?

பாய்ந்து துழாவிய கைகளும் எங்கே?

தேசம் அளாவிய கால்களும் எங்கே?

தீ உண்டதென்றது சாம்பலும் இங்கே

கண்ணில் தெரிந்தது காற்றுடன் போக

மண்ணில் பிறந்தது மண்ணுடல் சேர்க

எலும்பு சதை கொண்ட உருவங்கள் போக

எச்சங்களால் அந்த இன்னுயிர் வாழ்க.

பிறப்பு இல்லாமலே நாளொன்று இல்லை

இறப்பு இல்லாமலும் நாளொன்று இல்லை

நேசத்தினால் வரும் நினைவுகள் தொல்லை

மறதியைப் போல் ஒரு மாமருந்தில்லை.

கடல் தொடும் ஆறுகள் கலங்குவதில்லை

தரை தொடும் தாரைகள் அழுவதும் இல்லை

நதி மழை போன்றதே விதியென்று கண்டும்

மதி கொண்ட மானுடர் மயங்குவதேன்ன!

மரணத்தினால் சில கோபங்கள் தீரும்

மரணத்தினால் சில சாபங்கள் தீரும்

வேதம் சொல்லாததை மரணங்கள் கூறும்

விதை ஒன்று வீழ்ந்திட செடிவந்து சேரும்.

பூமிக்கு நாம் ஒரு யாத்திரை வந்தோம்

யாத்திரை தீரும் முன் நித்திரை கொண்டோம்

நித்திரை போவது நியதி என்றாலும்

யாத்திரை என்பது தொடர்கதையாகும்.

தென்றலின் பூங்கரம் தீண்டிடும் போதும்

சூரியக் கீற்றொளி தோன்றிடும் போதும்

மழலையின் தேன்மொழி செவியுறும் போதும்

மாண்டவர் எம்முடன் வாழ்ந்திட கூடும்.

மாண்டவர் சுவாசங்கள் காற்றுடன் சேர்க!

தூயவர் கண்ணொளி சூரியன் சேர்க!

பூதங்கள் ஐந்திலும் பொன்னுடல் சேர்க!

போனவர் புண்ணியம் எம்முடன் சேர்க!

Zoroastrianism

 Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest continuously practised religions. It was founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Iran around the 6th century BCE, though some scholars suggest it could have originated earlier.

Core Beliefs

• Monotheism: Zoroastrianism centres around worshipping Ahura Mazda, the supreme god representing truth and goodness.
• Dualism: The world is seen as a battleground between the forces of good, led by Ahura Mazda, and evil, led by Angra Mainyu (Ahriman).
• Cosmic Struggle: Humans participate in this cosmic struggle and are encouraged to choose the path of Asha (truth and righteousness) over Druj (deceit and chaos).
• Ethical Living: The religion emphasises good thoughts, good words, and good deeds as the path to righteousness.

Sacred Texts

• Avesta: The primary collection of sacred texts in Zoroastrianism includes the Gathas (hymns attributed to Zoroaster) and other liturgical works.

Practices

• Fire Temples: Zoroastrian worship often occurs in fire temples where a sacred fire, representing Ahura Mazda’s light and wisdom, is kept burning.
• Rituals: Ritual purity is highly valued, and Zoroastrians practice various purification rites. They also observe ceremonies for important life events such as birth, marriage, and death.

Festivals

• Nowruz: The Zoroastrian New Year, celebrated at the vernal equinox, marks nature's renewal.
• Yalda: The winter solstice celebration symbolises light's triumph over darkness.

Influence and Legacy

• Zoroastrianism has significantly influenced other major religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, particularly in concepts of heaven, hell, and the final judgment.
• Although the number of adherents has diminished, primarily due to historical invasions and conversions, Zoroastrian communities still exist today, mainly in India (Parsis) and Iran.

Modern Day

• The Zoroastrian community, though small, remains active and dedicated to preserving their traditions and beliefs. They face challenges such as demographic decline and the need to integrate into wider societies while maintaining their distinct religious identity.

Zoroastrianism's profound ethical teachings, emphasis on individual responsibility, and the eternal battle between good and evil continue to resonate and influence various aspects of modern spiritual thought.

 

Lalapalooza Effect

The "Lalapalooza Effect" is a concept popularised by Charlie Munger, the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway and the long-time business partner of Warren Buffett. It refers to the decisive outcome that results when multiple biases, tendencies, or psychological principles act in concert. Rather than just adding their individual effects, these principles can combine and interact to create exponential or non-linear outcomes, leading to significant and often unexpected results.

Key Elements of the Lalapalooza Effect

1. Cognitive Biases: Munger highlights how different cognitive biases can interact. Examples include:
• Social Proof: People tend to do what others are doing.
• Consistency Bias: Once people commit to something, they are more likely to stick to it.
• Reciprocity: The tendency to return favors.
2. Mental Models: Munger advocates for understanding and using various mental models from different disciplines to analyse better and solve problems. When these models overlap, their combined effect can lead to more precise insights and more effective decision-making.
3. Feedback Loops: Positive and negative feedback loops can amplify the effects of specific actions or decisions. Positive feedback loops can create rapid growth or decline, while negative feedback loops can stabilise or reduce the impact of changes.

Examples of the Lalapalooza Effect

• Economic Bubbles: Multiple factors such as herd behaviour, overconfidence, and availability bias can combine to inflate economic bubbles. When everyone believes prices will continue to rise, they invest more, driving prices even higher until the bubble bursts.
• Marketing and Sales: Companies often use a mix of psychological triggers to boost sales. Limited-time offers (scarcity), testimonials (social proof), and money-back guarantees (reciprocity and risk aversion) together can significantly enhance the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.
• Behavioral Finance: Investors might be influenced by overconfidence, loss aversion, and herd behaviour, leading to market anomalies and investment strategies that deviate from rational expectations.

Applying the Lalapalooza Effect

To harness the Lalapalooza Effect, one should:

• Learn Multiple Disciplines: Integrate knowledge from psychology, economics, mathematics, physics, and other fields.
• Recognize Interactions: Be aware of how cognitive biases and principles might interact in any situation.
• Think Systematically: Understand and map out potential feedback loops and second-order consequences of actions.

The Lalapalooza Effect underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and decision-making, highlighting how combined influences can lead to significantly amplified results.

 

Promoting eco-tourism in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka with integrated organic farming

Promoting eco-tourism in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka with integrated organic farming can provide tourists with a unique and sustainable experience while benefiting the local community and environment. Here are some strategies to effectively promote this concept:

1. Develop Eco-Friendly Accommodations

• Eco-Lodges and Farm Stays: Build eco-lodges and farm stays that utilise sustainable materials and renewable energy sources. These can be integrated with organic farms, offering tourists the chance to stay amidst nature and participate in farming activities.
• Green Certification: Obtain green certifications for accommodations to attract eco-conscious travellers.

2. Promote Organic Farming Experiences

• Farm Tours and Workshops: Offer guided tours of organic farms and hands-on workshops where tourists can learn about sustainable farming practices, composting, and organic food production.
• Farm-to-Table Dining: Create dining experiences where guests can enjoy meals prepared with fresh, organic produce from the farms. Highlight the health benefits and sustainability of organic food.

3. Integrate Cultural and Natural Attractions

• Local Culture and Traditions: Promote the unique cultural heritage of the Eastern Province, including traditional farming practices, local crafts, and cultural festivals.
• Nature-Based Activities: Organize bird watching, nature walks, and wildlife safaris in nearby nature reserves and coastal areas.

4. Collaborate with Local Communities

• Community-Based Tourism: Engage local communities in tourism activities, ensuring they benefit economically and socially. Provide training and support to help them offer services like guided tours, homestays, and cultural performances.
• Local Products and Handicrafts: Encourage the sale of local organic products and handicrafts to tourists, supporting local artisans and farmers.

5. Implement Sustainable Practices

• Waste Management: Develop effective waste management systems to minimise the environmental impact of tourism activities. Promote recycling, composting, and the use of biodegradable products.
• Water and Energy Conservation: Use water-saving technologies and renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines in accommodations and farming operations.

6. Marketing and Partnerships

• Online Presence and Social Media: Create a robust online presence through a dedicated website and active social media profiles. Share stories, photos, and videos showcasing the unique eco-tourism and organic farming experiences available.
• Collaborate with Travel Agencies: Partner with eco-friendly travel agencies and platforms to reach a wider audience of environmentally conscious travellers.
• Participate in Eco-Tourism Fairs: Attend international and local eco-tourism fairs and exhibitions to promote the Eastern Province as a sustainable travel destination.

7. Educational and Research Opportunities

• Research Partnerships: Collaborate with universities and research institutions to conduct studies on sustainable tourism and organic farming practices. This can provide valuable insights and enhance the credibility of your initiatives.
• Educational Tours and Programs: Offer educational tours for schools and universities, focusing on sustainability, organic farming, and conservation.

8. Ensure Accessibility and Infrastructure

• Transportation: Improve transportation links to the Eastern Province, including eco-friendly transportation options like electric buses or bicycles for local travel.
• Visitor Information Centers: Set up information centres that provide tourists with maps, guides, and information about eco-tourism and organic farming activities.

By implementing these strategies, the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka can become a leading destination for eco-tourism integrated with organic farming, offering unique, sustainable experiences that benefit tourists and the local community.

 

Changing the order of food can significantly impact blood sugar levels

 Changing the order in which you eat different types of food can significantly impact blood sugar levels, which is particularly important for managing diabetes mellitus. This approach leverages the concept of "food order" or "meal sequencing" to optimise glucose control. Here's how it works and why it can be effective:

Understanding Food Order and Blood Sugar Control

1. Carbohydrates Last: Consuming carbohydrates at the end of a meal can help reduce the spike in blood sugar levels. When eaten first, carbohydrates are quickly broken down into glucose, rapidly increasing blood sugar. By eating proteins, fats, and non-starchy vegetables first, glucose absorption is slowed down.
2. Protein and Fat First: Eating protein and fat can help slow gastric emptying and glucose absorption from carbohydrates consumed later, resulting in a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels.
3. Fiber and Vegetables: Eating high-fibre foods and non-starchy vegetables at the beginning of the meal can create a physical barrier in the stomach and intestines, further slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates.

Practical Steps to Implement Food Order Strategy

1. Begin with Vegetables and Protein:
• Start your meal with a salad or a serving of non-starchy vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, or bell peppers.
• Follow up with a portion of protein such as chicken, fish, tofu, or legumes.
2. Add Healthy Fats:
• Include healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, or olive oil. These can be part of the salad dressing or a topping on your protein.
3. End with Carbohydrates:
• Finally, consume carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, or starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes. This helps moderate the blood sugar response.

Scientific Support

Several studies have demonstrated the benefits of altering food order for blood glucose control:

• A study published in Diabetes Care (2015) found that consuming vegetables and protein before carbohydrates significantly reduced post-meal blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Research in the journal BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care (2020) showed that altering the food sequence in a meal could improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.

Additional Tips for Managing Diabetes

1. Consistent Meal Timing: Eating at regular intervals can help maintain steady blood sugar levels.
2. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating, which can lead to blood sugar spikes.
3. Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet is well-balanced with various nutrients from different food groups.
4. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly check your blood sugar levels to understand how different foods and meal sequences affect your glucose levels.
5. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before making significant changes to your diet, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian, especially for personalised advice and monitoring.

Conclusion

Changing the order in which you consume different foods during a meal can be a practical and effective strategy to manage blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus. By starting with vegetables and proteins and ending with carbohydrates, you can slow down glucose absorption and reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes, thereby aiding in better diabetes control.

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References:

1. Diabetes Care 2015;38: E12-E14
2. BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care 2020;8:e000896

 

The first sign of civilization in a culture-Anthropologist Margaret Mead

Years ago, anthropologist Margaret Mead was asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a culture. The student expected Mead to talk about fishhooks, clay pots, or grinding stones.

But no. Mead said that the first sign of civilization in ancient culture was a healed broken femur (thigh bone). Mead explained that in the animal kingdom, if you break your leg, you die. You cannot run from danger, get to the river for a drink, or hunt for food. You are meat for prowling beasts. No animal survives a broken leg long enough for the bone to heal.

A broken femur that has healed is evidence that someone has taken time to stay with the one who fell, has bound up the wound, has carried the person to safety and has tended the person through recovery. Helping someone else through difficulty is where civilization starts, Mead said."

We are at our best when we serve others. Be civilized.

Radon and lung cancer

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can stealthily seep into buildings, particularly those with basements, from the soil and rock beneath them. It's odourless, tasteless, and invisible, rendering it undetectable without specialised equipment. This stealthiness underscores the importance of vigilance and regular testing for radon levels in our living and working spaces.

 

When radon is inhaled, its radioactive particles can damage the cells lining the lungs. Over time, this damage can lead to the development of lung cancer. Radon is considered the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking and is estimated to be responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States alone.

 

Testing for radon levels in homes and workplaces is crucial for identifying and mitigating exposure risks. Simple radon test kits are available, and if elevated levels are detected, mitigation measures such as sealing cracks in the foundation, improving ventilation, or installing radon mitigation systems can be implemented to reduce exposure.

 

For individuals concerned about radon exposure, especially in regions with higher concentrations, testing their living spaces and taking appropriate measures if levels are high can help mitigate the risk of developing lung cancer.

 

Vitamin K2

 Vitamin K2, like its counterpart K1, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. However, it's mainly known for its role in bone and cardiovascular health. Here's a bit more detail:

1. Bone Health: Vitamin K2 is essential for bone mineralisation. It activates osteocalcin, a protein that helps bind calcium to bones and thus contributes to bone strength and density. Studies suggest that adequate intake of vitamin K2 may reduce the risk of fractures and improve bone health, especially in postmenopausal women at higher risk of osteoporosis.
2. Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin K2 also helps regulate calcium metabolism. It ensures calcium is directed to where it's needed, such as bones and teeth. It prevents it from accumulating in arteries and other soft tissues, which could contribute to arterial calcification and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Other Functions: Some research suggests that vitamin K2 may have other potential health benefits, such as supporting immune function and possibly reducing the risk of certain cancers. However, more studies are needed to understand these effects fully.

Vitamin K2 is naturally found in fermented foods like cheese, natto (fermented soybeans), and sauerkraut, as well as in animal products like egg yolks and certain meats. It's also available in supplement form, often as MK-4 or MK-7 (different forms of vitamin K2).

As with any supplement, talking to a healthcare professional before adding vitamin K2 to your regimen is essential, especially if you're on blood-thinning medications or have any underlying health conditions.

 

Dark psychology

Dark psychology refers to studying and applying psychological principles to manipulate, control, or influence others for personal gain or malicious intent. It delves into understanding how individuals can exploit cognitive biases, emotional vulnerabilities, and behavioural patterns to achieve their objectives, often at the expense of others' well-being.

Some common tactics associated with dark psychology include:

1. Manipulation: Using deceit, flattery, guilt-tripping, or other tactics to influence someone's thoughts, feelings, or behaviours.
2. Persuasion: Employing persuasive techniques such as framing, social proof, or scarcity to sway someone's opinions or decisions.
3. Gaslighting: A form of psychological manipulation in which the perpetrator seeks to make the victim doubt their perceptions, memories, or sanity.
4. Mind Games: Engaging in psychological games or power struggles to assert dominance or control over another person.
5. Emotional Exploitation is taking advantage of someone's emotions, insecurities, or vulnerabilities to manipulate or control them.

It's important to note that while understanding dark psychology can help recognise and protect oneself from manipulation, it's crucial to use this knowledge ethically and responsibly. Many of the principles of dark psychology can also be applied positively, such as in negotiation, persuasion, or conflict resolution.

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Refillable business models

Refillable business models, or subscription-based or service-based models, have gained significant traction across various industries. These models rely on providing customers with a continuous service or product, often regularly, in exchange for a subscription fee. Here are some common types and examples of refillable business models:

1. Subscription Services: These models offer access to a service or a product for a recurring fee. Examples include:
• Streaming Services: Companies like Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon Prime offer access to movies, music, and other digital content for a monthly subscription fee.
• Software as a Service (SaaS): Businesses like Salesforce, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Microsoft Office 365 provide software applications on a subscription basis, typically charged monthly or annually.
• Meal Kit Subscriptions: Companies such as Blue Apron, HelloFresh, and Home Chef deliver pre-portioned ingredients and recipes to customers weekly.
2. Membership Models: These models offer members exclusive access, perks, or discounts in exchange for a recurring fee. Examples include:
• Retail Memberships: Companies like Costco and Sam's Club offer membership programs that provide access to bulk discounts and other benefits.
• Gym Memberships: Fitness clubs like Planet Fitness and Anytime Fitness offer membership packages that grant access to their facilities and services.
• Subscription Boxes: Companies like Birchbox and FabFitFun curate and deliver boxes of products to subscribers monthly or quarterly.
3. Refillable Products: These models focus on providing products that must be replenished regularly. Examples include:
• Subscription-Based Razors: Companies like Dollar Shave Club and Harry's offer subscription-based razor services, regularly providing customers with razor blades.
• Coffee Subscriptions: Blue Bottle Coffee and Trade Coffee offer subscription services for regular coffee deliveries.
• Personal Care Products: Brands like Quip (toothbrushes), Native (deodorants), and Blueland (cleaning products) offer subscription-based models for regularly replenished personal care and household items.
4. Freemium Models: These models offer essential services or products for free while charging for premium features or upgraded versions. Examples include:
• Freemium Games: Many mobile games offer free gameplay with the option to purchase in-game items or upgrades.
• Freemium Software: Apps like Evernote and Dropbox offer free versions with limited features, while premium subscriptions unlock additional functionality and storage space.
5. Rentals and Leasing: These models involve renting or leasing products for a period rather than outright purchase. Examples include:
• Car Rental Services: Companies like Zipcar and Enterprise Rent-A-Car offer short-term vehicle rentals.
• Furniture Rental: Businesses such as Feather and Fernish offer furniture rental services, allowing customers to furnish their homes without buying furniture outright.

Refillable business models offer several advantages, including recurring revenue streams, enhanced customer loyalty through ongoing engagement, and the ability to predict and manage inventory more effectively. However, they also come with challenges such as customer churn, maintaining service quality, and the need for continuous innovation to retain subscribers.

 

The Art of Doing Nothing

 The Art of Doing Nothing emphasizes the importance of slowing down, taking breaks, and embracing moments of stillness in our increasingly busy lives. It's about deliberately setting aside time to relax, unwind, and be present without any specific goals or tasks to accomplish.

 

In today's fast-paced world, busyness and productivity are often glorified, but research has shown that constant activity can lead to burnout, stress, and decreased overall well-being. The Art of Doing Nothing encourages individuals to counteract this by intentionally carving out periods for rest and rejuvenation.

 

Practising the Art of Doing Nothing is not about being idle or unproductive. It's about engaging in activities like meditation, mindfulness, or simply sitting quietly and enjoying nature. These active moments of relaxation can help reduce stress, increase creativity, and improve overall mental and physical health.

 

Furthermore, the Art of Doing Nothing doesn't necessarily mean being idle or unproductive. It's about finding balance and recognising that taking breaks and allowing ourselves to recharge can enhance our productivity and effectiveness in the long run.

 

The Art of Doing Nothing is more than a concept. It's a gentle reminder to prioritise self-care and embrace moments of quiet contemplation in our busy lives. By doing so, we can cultivate greater happiness, fulfilment, and peace of mind. This practice can enhance our overall well-being and effectiveness in the long run.

 

 

Procurement in the construction industry

Procurement in the construction industry refers to obtaining goods, services, and resources necessary for completing construction projects. It involves various stages, from identifying needs and selecting suppliers to negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships. Effective procurement ensures that construction projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Here are some key aspects of procurement in the construction industry:

1. Needs Identification: This involves identifying the materials, equipment, and services required for the construction project. It requires collaboration between project managers, engineers, architects, and other stakeholders to determine the project's specifications and requirements.

2. Supplier Selection: Once the needs are identified, the next step is to select suitable suppliers or subcontractors. Potential suppliers are evaluated based on price, quality, reliability, experience, and past performance. The goal is to choose suppliers to provide the required goods and services within the project's constraints.

3. Tendering and Bidding: In many cases, construction projects involve a competitive bidding process where suppliers submit proposals or bids in response to a request for proposal (RFP) or invitation to tender (ITT). The client or project owner evaluates these bids based on various criteria and selects the most suitable supplier.

4. 1. Contract Negotiation: Contracts must be negotiated and finalised once a supplier is selected. This involves defining terms and conditions, pricing, delivery schedules, quality standards, and other relevant agreement aspects. Effective contract negotiation is essential for ensuring clarity, minimising risks, and protecting the interests of all parties involved.

   2. Supply Chain Management is critical for ensuring the timely delivery of materials and equipment to the construction site. This involves coordinating with suppliers, monitoring inventory levels, tracking deliveries, and addressing any issues or delays that may arise.

   3. Quality Assurance: Procurement also plays a significant role in ensuring the quality of materials and workmanship in construction projects. This includes specifying quality standards, conducting inspections, and enforcing compliance with contractual requirements.

   4. Risk Management: Procurement professionals need to identify and mitigate risks associated with the supply chain, such as delays, cost overruns, quality issues, and supplier defaults. This may involve diversifying suppliers, establishing contingency plans, and implementing robust contract management processes.

   5. Sustainability and Ethics: Sustainability and ethical considerations are becoming increasingly important in construction procurement. This includes sourcing materials and services from environmentally responsible suppliers, promoting fair labour practices, and adhering to ethical standards throughout the supply chain.

Overall, effective procurement practices are essential for the success of construction projects. They ensure that they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Collaboration, communication, and careful planning are key to achieving optimal outcomes in construction procurement.