By this time it is completely decided that my new aquarium will be a Goldfish aquarium. An extensive research of over 2 months has gone in to decide that. The Internet, the local fish sellers, friends, online forums, mailers etc have all contributed. Whatever I have learned in this span of 2 months is given below for aquarium hobbyists who intend to have a goldfish aquarium.
Goldfish have been bred for over a thousand years for the sake of observation enjoyment. The art of breeding the finest specimens of goldfish first started in Asia and was later picked up in Europe. Breeders aimed to produce the highest quality of colors and shapes ever found on a goldfish. Because this type of fish has been bred so rigorously for all those years, you will never find one for sale that has not been born in captive breeding. An amateur aquarist could decide that he or she would like to raise goldfish in a pond or aquarium but there are a lot of factors to consider before getting started in this hobby. The beginner aquarist should first learn about the different types of goldfish to find out which varieties are hardy and easy to care for. A little bit of research as to what different varieties of goldfish to purchase and their specific needs is necessary for a successful pond or aquarium. Without the proper knowledge of water chemistry and conditions the inexperienced hobbyist might stumble upon some pretty devastating mishaps with their new pets. With a little bit of information you can make a well informed decision on what kind of goldfish you want to buy for your aquarium or pond.
Goldfish Varieties
There are many different varieties of goldfish and each unique trait is as valued as the next in the aquarium industry. Goldfish can possess over exaggerated features such as bubble eyes, hunched backs, double fins, round bodies, outstanding scales, puffy caps or nostrils, and fancy colors. Each and every goldfish variety is admired for its unique traits. Forgive me if there are a few varieties that I neglect to mention but I will try to cover them all in this article. The key to raising goldfish is, knowing the individual varieties, what makes them special and what their specific needs are. Once you have done your research, you can decide what varieties of goldfish are right for you.
Single Tail Varieties:
Common: The common goldfish is the most basic and common of all the goldfish varieties, thus its nickname the “common goldfish”. They are the most resilient of all the different goldfish species and can live up to 30 years and reach a mature size of 24 inches in a pond. This is the original goldfish that has been selectively bred in order to form all the different varieties of “fancy” goldfish. The common and comet goldfish are usually found in aquarium retail stores as feeder goldfish. The lower quality specimens are the ones sold as feeders because breeders will not use them for breeding and hobby aquarists would not want to raise them. When shopping for a common goldfish, be sure to check that the gill covers are completely formed and that they are not hunch backed. Those are signs of defective specimens.
Comet: The comet goldfish is essentially the common goldfish with longer fins. This fish is just as hardy as the common goldfish but their fins are more likely to get nipped at due to their length. The body shape and length as well as all the color combinations are the same as the common goldfish. The comet goldfish can potentially reach a mature size of approximately 22 inches and can live up to 20 years if it is well cared for. This only happens if this type of goldfish is raised in a pond. Be sure that the fins are nicely in tact before purchasing these fish. If the fins are shredded the fish could be stressed out and may not survive a trip to a new aquarium.
Shubunkin: The shubunkin goldfish is very similar to the comet goldfish in terms of their body and fin shape, although sometimes you will be able to find a double tailed shubunkin. Their calico colors of red, white, orange, black and blue set them apart from the common comet goldfish. These shubunkin goldfish reach a mature size of 8 to 12 inches for up to 25 years. This fish can also be found in a short fin variety. This variety is not quite as resilient as the common goldfish but is still quite hardy when compared to other goldfish varieties. Although the colors are not as prominent in the pond as the deep orange coloration of the common and comet goldfish, they still survive well and can thrive in a pond environment.
Fancy Tail Varieties:
Wakins: The wakins goldfish is also known as the double tail goldfish because of their double caudal tail fin which is divided. The wakins goldfish retain the same body shape and color combinations as the common goldfish. Each segment of this goldfish’s double tail is positioned closely together as opposed to wide set, so the tail appears to be thinner than the butterfly tail variety of goldfish.
Jikins: The jikins goldfish, also known as the butterfly goldfish is a double tailed goldfish that retains the body shape and color combinations of the common goldfish. This fish is different from the wakins or double tailed goldfish because each segment of this goldfish’s tail is connected closer to the tip and positioned to spread out into a wider set tail formation. Because the two segments of the tail are connected almost to the tip, the tail on this goldfish variety appears to be butterfly shaped from up above which explains the name “butterfly tail“. The jikins goldfish is bred from the wakins goldfish and will most times have less dramatic coloration. The ideal jikins goldfish which can be very expensive will have a white body with red lips, fins and tail.
Fantail: The fantail goldfish is named for its double tail configuration in addition to their pointed faces, round bodies. The fan shaped double tails along with their cute body form put them in the category of “fancy” goldfish. These fantail goldfish come in a variety of different color combinations, both iridescent and metallic. Sometimes these fantail goldfish can be found with telescope eyes but most times they have normal eyes. These goldfish are pretty resilient when compared to the other fancy types of goldfish but they still have the tendency to contract swim bladder disorder. To prevent this do not let water temperature drop below 50°F. This type of goldfish does not have very much trouble with their swimming abilities as some of the other fancy varieties do. They have the potential to reach 14 inches long and live up to 12 years.
Nymph: The nymph goldfish shares the same body shape as the fantail goldfish but it lacks the double tail. This goldfish is essentially the same fish as the fantail goldfish so it comes in all the same color combinations. The single anal and caudal fins cause the nymph to appear to be a shorter, rounder common goldfish but it is actually born to the fantail or veil tail goldfish varieties. The nymph goldfish can reach a length of 14 inches and live up to 12 years.
Veil tail: The veil tail goldfish is named for its long flowing fins. This variety of goldfish retains a round, elongated body shape and it comes in all the different goldfish color combinations. The ideal veil tail goldfish will have a dorsal fin that will start at the highest point of the veil tail’s back and be as tall as the height of the goldfish’s body. This makes for a well proportioned veil tail goldfish. Since their fins are so long and so delicate the veil tail goldfish should have plenty of room to swim without obstacles to get caught on. This fish can be relatively hardy if their fins are well cared for and they have the potential to grow up to 10 inches in length and live up to 16 years.
Ryukin: The ryukin goldfish comes in all the usual goldfish color combinations although the red and silver combination is in highest demand and. The calico ryukin is very common and exhibits all the usual colors of red, black, white, blue and orange. These fish have pointed heads, high backs and round bellies. Their double fan tails put them in the fancy goldfish classification even though their eyes are always normal. The ryukin goldfish grow to a maximum of 10 inches which make them a great alternative to raising koi fish without having to have the large space requirements that koi fish demand. They have a life span of up to 25 years and can be fairly robust goldfish.
Oranda: The oranda goldfish is quite a fish to look at because of their extremely round bellies and short bodies. They have fancy flowing tail and dorsal fins as well as their thick hoods that cover their heads and faces almost to the point where you cannot see their eyes. The oranda goldfish come in a variety of colors and color combinations. The hood on an oranda goldfish takes awhile to develop and may start to appear as white spots that look like ick before forming into a full hood. There is a redcap variety of the oranda goldfish which is different from other orandas because unlike the oranda hood that covers the face and head, the cap is confined to growing on the top of a head and not at all on the face of the goldfish. Ideal specimens of the oranda goldfish should have long flowing fins and a nice even leveled hood that does not cover the eyes of the fish. This fish can live up to 25 years and grow up to 10 inches long.
Telescope eye: The telescope eye goldfish, which is also called dragon eye goldfish, is known for their protruding eyes. These fish have high dorsal fins and short, round bodies. This is a resilient goldfish that can live up to 25 years old and reach potentially 8 inches in length. The telescope eye goldfish come in all the different color combinations which make it possible for their eyes to exhibit different color variations as well. It is uncommon for the eyes on this fish to have colors contrasting the colors of the head. The telescoped eyes will come in a variety of sizes but the ideal fish should have symmetrical eyes and long flowing fins.
Moor: The moor goldfish has telescope eyes and comes in a variety of different colors. The body shape of the moor goldfish is the same as the veil tail goldfish. The highest prized of the moors is the black moor which is completely black all over and may sometimes have bronze scales. The black moor goldfish is a great contrast when added to an aquarium with goldfish of other colors. These fish are slow moving, clumsy swimmers so they do not do great in a pond or aquarium with aggressive fish. Moors can live for up to 25 years and reach a length of 10 inches.
Lion head: The lion head goldfish is named for its lion-like appearance when it is fully mature. A hood develops on this fish just like the ranchu and the oranda but it is noticeably more prominent than the other varieties of goldfish. When fully mature, the hood of this fish should fully cover its head with the exception of the eyes. The lion head has a double tail fin and lacks the dorsal fin which gives it a smooth back. Although the lion head has a round belly, it has the longer body than the ranchu goldfish. The ideal lion head goldfish should have an elongated, straight back without a hunch to it. This fish can reach up to 8 inches in length and live up to 15 years old.
Ranchu: The ranchu goldfish looks very similar to the lion head goldfish with two very minor differences. First, the body shape of a ranchu is slightly rounder and not as long. Second, the hood on the ranchu goldfish is not quite as defined as the hood on the lion head goldfish. When searching for a ranchu goldfish be sure to check the curvature of the back; there should be no humps. Sometimes you will see as much as a 90° curvature of its back, otherwise this fish can grow up to 8 inches in length. These fish are not very resilient and cannot withstand colder temperatures so they will need to be kept in a temperature regulated aquarium. The life span of this fish is 15 years but most times they will not even live that long.
Pompon: The pompon goldfish are named for the nasal flaps which appear larger on this variety of goldfish than on any other. The size of pompons varies from fish to fish but on a single fish, both pompons should be symmetrical when looking for a good specimen to purchase. The highest in demand of all the pompon goldfish is the “red magpie” which is characterized by the black coloration of the goldfish’s face contrasting with the bright orange pompons. There are other color combinations available as well. This fish can reach a potential of 8 inches in length and live up to 25 years old.
Pearl scale: The pearl scale goldfish is named for the visual effect of their scales that reflect light to appear pearl-like। Each scale is curved more than normal scales so that the center appears pearly white. The pearl scale goldfish tends to be a little smaller than other varieties of goldfish, with exaggerated round bodies and double caudal fins. This variety of fish does not swim especially well so they are best kept in calm aquariums with non-aggressive fish. These fish are not very hardy so extreme care should be taken when raising these fish. They have the potential to reach 8 inches in length and they can live for about 20 years if they are very well cared for.
Bubble eye: The bubble eye goldfish name is quite self explanatory. It is named for the liquid filled bubbles positioned just below the eyes. The bubble eye goldfish has the same elongated round body as the lion head goldfish. They too lack the dorsal fin and have the double caudal tail fin. A well proportioned bubble eye goldfish will have symmetrical bubbles under each eye and the width of the bubbles on the head should equal the same as the length of the body. Because the bubble sacs are so delicate, this variety of goldfish should be placed in a spacious aquarium with non-aggressive fish. It is possible for the fluid filled sacs to be punctured and deflated so extreme caution should be taken when caring for this fish. If special care is taken with the surroundings of this fish the fluid filled sacs can potentially repair heal. The bubble eye goldfish is available in all the different color combinations. They can reach 6 inches in length and live for up to 10 years long.
Celestial: The celestial goldfish is named for their bubble eyes that point upward as if they are permanently gazing at the stars. These goldfish, like the lion head goldfish, have elongated bodies, round bellies, double tail configuration and they lack a dorsal fin. It is very common to find this type of goldfish with a deep orange coloration even though it is available in other color combinations. A good specimen of the celestial goldfish should have symmetrical eyes both in angle and position. Also available is the celestial pompon goldfish which have the celestial eyes as well as the pompon nasal flaps. This fish has a short life expectancy of 7 years and they can reach up to 10 inches in length.
The fancy goldfish with all the unique traits are much more likely to contract swim bladder disorder which is a condition in which the fish becomes disoriented and loses its ability to swim upright. The more a goldfish is bred to exhibit traits different from the common goldfish the less resistant the fish becomes to all the different diseases that can ail a goldfish. When searching for your new goldfish, be sure to observe their swimming ability for a little bit while still in the store. Although the fancier types of goldfish are not as graceful as other fish, they should still be able to swim around without too much trouble. Check all of the fins to see that they are still in tact and not shredded or rotten. Look at the eyes to be sure that they are clear and undamaged; if they look cloudy or uneven it would be best not to purchase the goldfish. Be sure to check that their gill plates are completely covering their gills; some fish are born defective with incomplete gill covers.
When choosing the right specimens to take home to your pond or aquarium, be sure to first observe the conditions of the tanks in the pet store. By looking closely at the store’s display tanks you will be able to see if the fish are well cared for and free of disease. If most or all of the fish tanks look diseased and unclean it would be best to move on to another aquatic retail store. If you purchase healthy, well cared for goldfish you will have a better chance at goldfish raising success.
सांयकाळी समुद्रकाठी फ़िरताना एक वृद्धानं एका लहानग्याला किनार्यावर काहीतरी उचलून समुद्रात फ़ेकताना पाहिलं. आश्चर्य वाटून तो त्याच्या जवळ गेला तर तो समुद्राकाठचे तडफ़डणारे तारामासे एक-एक करुन पुन्हा समुद्राच्या पाण्यात फ़ेकत होता.न राहावून त्यानं लहानग्याला विचारलं, ;समुद्रकिनारी इतके हजारो मासे आहेत, तु कुणा कुणाला वाचवू शकणार आहेस??.. मुठभर मासे वाचवून जगाला असा काय फ़रक पडणार आहे?त्या मुलाने आणखी एक मासा समुद्रात फ़ेकत निरागसपणे उत्तर दिलं, यानं जगाला काय फ़रक पडेल ते माहीत नाही. पण या माशाला विचारा, त्याला काय फ़रक पडला? ज्याचा मी नुकताच जीव वाचवला.
Sameer Tiwari, a Pune based mechanical engineer, thought he had made a "prudent decision" by opting for a fixed rate, home loan five years ago from a reputed national bank.
Three years after the date of disbursement, Sameer received a letter, which said it was time for renewal of his loan and that the interest on his fixed home loan had been increased by 0.5 per cent. On checking with the bank, he learned that there was a clause in the agreement that said the fixed rate was only for a period of three years and not for the entire tenure!
This letter brought endless, sleepless nights to Sameer and his family now, they had to recalculate and replan all their income sources and planned expenses because the "fixed EMIs (Equated Monthly Instalments)" will increase!
What is a loan agreement?
A loan agreement is a 'contract' entered into between the borrower and the lender (banks and financial institutions) that regulates the terms of a loan. The loan agreement comes into picture immediately after the bank appraises your credit and the property that you have identified.
The agreement and the fine prints...
In the euphoria to acquire that dream house, various clauses in the loan agreement are often overlooked. However, these clauses have a significant bearing on areas ranging from interest rates to repayment schedules. Reading home loan agreements is generally viewed as a sheer formality and one always tends to ignore points that the agreement mentions. Moreover, the legal language used in the document often seems more alien than human!
In any case, not reading a loan agreement thoroughly can land you in a soup. Here are some clauses, which should be searched for inside a loan agreement and be clarified with your HFC (Housing Finance Company):
Reset Clause on Fixed Rates:
Banks have introduced the reset clause in their fixed rate, home loan agreements so that they can increase interest rates in case the market rates increase in future. This effectively makes fixed rate loans equivalent to floating rate ones. This gives the banks an escape from interest rate surges but is a disadvantage for the borrower who is mostly unaware about such content in their agreement. Typically, the period for such reset clause varies from two to five years depending on the bank or housing finance company you borrow from. So read this clause in your loan agreement carefully.
Force Majeure Clause:
There may be certain loopholes in your home loan agreement that allows the bank or home loan company to unfix and raise the fixed interest rate under exceptional circumstances. This will be mentioned under the 'force majeure' clause of your agreement. However, the differentiation between 'exceptional circumstances' and normal circumstances is always a tough task.
For e.g. A cut in banks' prime lending rate is not automatically translating into reduction of all PLR-linked loan rates. The reason being cited is that the bank's margins are under severe stress due to lending rate cuts. They feel interest rates on some existing sub-PLR loans do not even cover their cost of funds and any further fall in those sub-PLR loans will worsen the matter. Therefore, some public sector banks have revised the existing loan contracts in case of select sub-PLR borrowers, by using the 'force majeure' clause, meaning a 'situation beyond control'.
Defining a Fault:
A 'fault' for a layman often means a non-payment of an EMI during the loan tenure. However, your bank or HFC may have a different meaning for this term. The home loan agreement of few banks defines fault as a case when the borrower expires, the borrower is divorced (in case of more than a single borrower), or the borrower is/are involved in any civil litigation or criminal offence. Therefore, you must be clear what your lender means by the term 'fault'.
Security cover at times of falling property rates:
This clause states that a bank is eligible to demand additional security when property prices fall. Even if you are loyal on your EMI payments, this clause demands a security cover in addition to your loan amount and if a borrower fails to provide such a security then he/ she may be declared a defaulter by the lender.
Floating is Fixed and vice versa:
Floating rate as well as fixed rate home loans are linked to the Benchmark Prime Lending Rate of a bank or the HFC from which you take a home loan. Hence, if the BPLR is 13.5 per cent and floating rate home loans are at a discount of 1.5 per cent to the BPLR, then the interest rate on a floating rate home loan is 12 per cent. So whenever the BPLR is raised, then the interest to be paid on the floating rate home loan goes up. The vice versa also holds true.
However, banks and HFCs do not show the same alacrity to reduce the interest rates, which they might have shown when increasing it. When interest rates come down, banks and HFCs offer lower rates to new customers but existing customer continue paying the higher interest rates. Check with the bank or HFC regarding the details about such clauses.
These clauses are overlooked by most home loan borrowers and some of them eventually end up paying interest rates, fees, or hidden charges completely out of the blue. It is imperative that you have a thorough understanding of such clauses with your bank or HFC.
The Aquarium which I am planning to setup is going to be a really huge one . The dimensions of my tank will be 60x18x15. My mom / dad are still of the opinion that I should not go in for such a huge Aquarium.But when its decided to go in for a new aquarium, its decided that I am going to go for it. The costing for the new aquarium is coming nearly to Rs 4500/- this includes only the glass aquarium. All other things will be cost extra.
The Aquarium hood / cover will be custom made. I will be placing the order to local carpenter. The cost for the same will be around Rs 1000/-. As I have an aquarium I have all the basic elements needed to set it up. Everything else will cost around Rs 1500/-. Earlier I had decided that I will be keeping Discus fish in my new aquarium. But after a lot of research on the internet about discus I came to know that it requires a lot of care, which i won't be able to give. So it is now decided that I will be having my all time favorite, Goldfish in my new Aquarium.
Hence, the aquarium will be up in around Rs 7000/-. Have not yet placed an order of the aquarium, but will surely do it very very soon.
I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.
Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents.
So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans. That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.
For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.
For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.
For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.
This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.
What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our founding fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.
For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship. This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.
So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:
``Let it be told to the future world ... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet (it).''
America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
Once upon a time, kings or queens were sworn in with a great deal of pomp and ceremony. In that sense, US president-elect Barack Obama's inauguration on January 20 will hark back to those times. But while the monarchy conducted a carefully orchestrated show designed to awe commoners into obedience, Obama's swearing in has the mood of a party, with millions of people descending upon Washington to celebrate the new American president. Obama's inaugural committee has succeeded in making the ceremony one of the most anticipated political events in years, with everything from local inauguration parties to rock concerts with some of music's biggest names enjoying wall-to-wall media coverage both in America and around the world.
Obama's meticulously planned inauguration celebration displays, yet again, the man's media savvy. Channelling Abraham Lincoln, Obama kicked off his three-state 'whistle-stop tour' on Saturday in Philadelphia, mirroring Lincoln's 1861 journey by train to Washington. He set off a four-day inaugural celebration of unprecedented ambition. The celebration, beginning with the trip and culminating in the official balls after the swearing in, is aimed at allowing as many people as possible to participate in it. What is remarkable is the number of people who are expected to brave the inhospitable Washington weather to stand in long queues and listen to their president. There'll be even more people watching from the comfort of their homes on television or on the internet.
Indian politicians could learn from Obama. When an Indian prime minister takes office, the ceremony is so mired in bureaucracy that the most overwhelming emotion is that of boredom. Inaugurations may be largely symbolic, but they do serve a purpose. A well-managed inauguration establishes the credibility of the government to lead its people, while ensuring that people believe they have a stake in the government. Obama and his team understand this. They have made certain the inauguration is as inclusive as possible, in keeping with a campaign driven by grass-roots support.
As an exercise to win goodwill, Obama's celebration party will probably be a success. The Indian establishment would do well to take a page out of Obama's book and understand the importance of communication, not just through sweeping speeches but also via symbolic gestures that reach out to people and make them feel part of a great nation.
I really don't know if this is a imagination of a real gadgets, but if this come in this world I am sure it will be a great help to all the men across the world.
Some of you may already know that I travel around the region pretty frequently, having to visit and conduct seminars at my offices in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Suzhou (China). I am in the airport almost every other week so I get to bump into many people who have attended my seminars or have read my books.
Recently, someone came up to me on a plane to KL and looked rather shocked.. He asked, 'How come a millionaire like you is travelling economy?' My reply was, 'That's why I am a millionaire.' He still looked pretty confused. This again confirms that greatest lie ever told about wealth (which I wrote about in my latest book 'Secrets of Self Made Millionaires'). Many people have been brainwashed to think that millionaires have to wear Gucci, Hugo Boss, Rolex, and sit on first class in air travel. This is why so many people never become rich because the moment that earn more money, they think that it is only natural that they spend more, putting them back to square one.
The truth is that most self-made millionaires are frugal and only spend on what is necessary and of value. That is why they are able to accumulate and multiply their wealth so much faster. Over the last 7 years, I have saved about 80% of my income while today I save only about 60% (because I have my wife, mother in law, 2 maids, 2 kids, etc. to support). Still, it is way above most people who save 10% of their income (if they are lucky). I refuse to buy a first class ticket or to buy a $300 shirt because I think that it is a complete waste of money. However, I happily pay $1,300 to send my 2-year old daughter to Julia Gabriel Speech and Drama without thinking twice.
When I joined the YEO (Young Entrepreneur's Organization) a few years back (YEO is an exclusive club open to those who are under 40 and make over $1m a year in their own business) I discovered that those who were self-made thought like me. Many of them with net worths well over $5m, travelled economy class and some even drove Toyota's and Nissans (not Audis, Mercs, BMWs).
I noticed that it was only those who never had to work hard to build their own wealth (there were also a few ministers' and tycoons' sons in the club) who spent like there was no tomorrow. Somehow, when you did not have to build everything from scratch, you do not really value money. This is precisely the reason why a family's wealth (no matter how much) rarely lasts past the third generation.. Thank God my rich dad (oh no! I sound like Kiyosaki) foresaw this terrible possibility and refused to give me a cent to start my business.
Then some people ask me, 'What is the point in making so much money if you don't enjoy it?' The thing is that I don't really find happiness in buying branded clothes, jewellery or sitting first class. Even if buying something makes me happy it is only for a while, it does not last.. Material happiness never lasts, it just give you a quick fix. After a while you feel lousy again and have to buy the next thing which you think will make you happy. I always think that if you need material things to make you happy, then you live a pretty sad and unfulfilled life.
Instead, what make ME happy is when I see my children laughing and playing and learning so fast. What makes me happy is when I see my companies and trainers reaching more and more people every year in so many more countries. What makes me really happy is when I read all the emails about how my books and seminars have touched and inspired someone's life. What makes me really happy is reading all your wonderful posts about how this BLOG is inspiring you. This happiness makes me feel really good for a long time, much much more than what a Rolex would do for me.
I think the point I want to put across is that happiness must come from doing your life's work (be in teaching, building homes, designing, trading, winning tournaments etc.) and the money that comes is only a by-product. If you hate what you are doing and rely on the money you earn to make you happy by buying stuff, then I think that you are living a meaningless life.
Vicks Vapo Rub, a common cold remedy, can cause respiratory distress in children under 2 when inappropriately applied directly under
the nose. US researchers said, “Using the Procter & Gamble Co product in this way can cause a young child's tiny airways to swell and fill with mucus, triggering severe breathing problems.”
"The only problem we've seen is in a small child when it has been put under the nose," Dr. Bruce Rubin of Wake Forest University School of Medicine in North Carolina, said. Rubin said, “The ingredients in Vicks can be irritants, causing the body to produce more mucus to protect the airway. And since infants and young children have airways that are much narrower than those of an adult, any increase in mucus or swelling can narrow them severely.”
"The company is really clear it should never go under the nose or in the nose for anybody and it shouldn't be used in children under 2," said Rubin. While the researchers only tested the Vicks product, Rubin said “Similar products, including generic versions, could cause the same negative effects in infants and toddlers.”
Rubin and his colleagues began looking at use of the medication after treating an 18-month-old girl who developed respiratory distress after the salve was put under her nose. They studied ferrets, which have an airway anatomy similar to humans. In the animals with a chest infection, the product increased mucus secretion and decreased the animal's ability to clear mucus. "We were able to document changes that we think explain this," Rubin said.
David Bernens, a spokesman for P&G, said the finding came as a surprise. "Vicks VapoRub has been proven safe and effective through multiple clinical trials. It has been in the market for over 100 years," Bernens said, noting that the label says the product should not be used in children under age 2 without a doctor's advice, and not under the nose. "We warn people not to do that," he said.
Since the initial episode, emergency doctors at the medical center have begun asking all parents of children in respiratory distress if they used the Vicks product in a similar way and they have seen two more cases, Rubin said. "I recommend never putting Vicks in, or under, the nose of anybody - adult or child," Rubin said, adding that he would never use it in a child under age 2.
Once upon a time the government with Ruling Party XYZ.. had a vast scrap yard in the middle of a desert. Ruling Party XYZ Said.. "Someone may steal from it at night."
So they created a night watchman position and hired a person for the job. Then Ruling Party XYZ Said.. "How does the watchman do his job without instruction?"
So they created a planning department and hired two people, one person to write the instructions, and one person to do time studies. Then Ruling Party XYZ Said.., "How will we know the night watchman is doing the tasks correctly?"
So they created a Quality Control department and hired two people. One to do the studies and one to write the reports. Then Ruling Party XYZ Said.. "How are these people going to get paid?"
So they created the following positions, a time keeper, and a payroll officer, then hired two people. Then Ruling Party XYZ Said.. "Who will be accountable for all of these people?"
So they created an administrative section and hired three people, an Administrative Officer, Assistant Administrative Officer, and a Legal Secretary. Then Ruling Party XYZ Said.. "We have had this command in operation for one year and we are $18,000 over budget, we must cutback overall cost."
Music maestro A R Rahman created history on Sunday night as he became the first Indian to win the prestigious Golden Globe awards. A R Rahman has won original music score for 'Slumdog Millionaire'. for best original music score for Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire. The film, with strong Indian connections, emerged as a hot favourite at the Globe, which sets the countdown for next month's Academy awards. Rahman's song 'Jai Ho,' penned by lyricist Gulzar, was nominated for Best Original Music Score. 'Slumdog' is based on a novel by Indian diplomat Vikash Swarup and stars Bollywood actors Anil Kapoor and Irrfan Khan in lead among others. Boyle's feel-good film depicts the moving story of a slumdweller Jamaal, who goes on to win USD 20 million on Indian reality show 'Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?' in a bid to win his love back.
My current Freshwater Aquarium has developed a crack on its base glass. Its leaking. Leaking like hell. Tried to fix it by myself but in vain. I always wanted to have a 5 feet long Freshwater Aquarium, and this is the right time to go for the same. I am really worried on the cost the whole of the setup will go, but I am sure some how I am going to manage it.
Things are quite clear in my mind what the size of my new aqua will be, where it will be placed, who will occupy the space in it etc. etc.
The below pix are just an imaginative representation of the same.
Hope my new aqua comes up fast any my wifey is saving really hard for it.
Just a few days back I was working for the whole night in the office for some urgent work which had popped up.I completed the whole by around 2 in the night. It was certain that i had now no train to go to Dombivli at that hour of time. But just to kill time i started searching for the Mumbai Suburban Train Timetable on the net. To my surprise I failed miserably in that. Such a powerful medium of Internet lacked the basic need of the Mumbaikar. From that day onwards I was in search of the timetable, and to my luck I found out one.
Given below is the map of the Mumbai Suburban Train route & also the Timetable. There is a quite possibility that the train timings may not match minute to minute, but at least we will get an fair idea of the time the train will leave the Terminus.
THANE TO C.S.T. (T) TIME S/F 04:00 S 07:38 S 09:58 S 14:56 S 18:27 S 04:11 S 07:50 S 10:02 S 15:13 S 18:37 S 04:30 S 07:59 S 10:10 S 15:29 S 18:47 S 04:51 S 08:08 F 10:30 S 15:37 S 19:06 S 05:00 S 08:09 S 10:46 F 15:51 S 19:10 S 05:12 S 08:23 S 10:59 S 16:11 S 19:39 S 05:10 F 08:30 F 11:33 S 16:23 S 20:37 S 05:24 S 08:38 S 11:42 S 16:43 S 20:41 S 05:36 S 08:52 S 11:56 S 16:56 S 21:48 S 05:46 S 09:02 S 12:32 S 17:13 S 06:06 S 09:12 S 12:54 S 17:32 S 06:15 S 09:14 F 13:03 S 17:40 S 06:25 F 09:20 S 13:12 S 17:50 S 06:42 S 09:25 S 13:34 S 17:54 S 06:53 S 09:38 S 14:05 S 18:04 S 07:13 S 09:46 S 14:24 S 18:15 S 07:26 S 09:56 F 14:31 S 18:19 S
ASANGAON TO CST.(AN) TIME S/F 05:30 S 09:24 S 16:12 F 19:20 F 06:08 S 10:01 S 16:50 F 19:45 S 07:40 F 11:16 S 17:36 F 20:35 F 08:28 F 15:09 F 18:17 S 21:48 S
KARJAT TO CST (S) 02:30 S 05:46 F 08:21 F 14:00 F 19:40 F 03:40 S 06:38 F 09:02 S 15:37 F 20:40 F 04:30 S 06:56 F 10:53 F 16:15 F 21:25 S 04:52 F 07:18 F 12:16 F 17:13 F 22:40 S 05:16 S 07:52 F 13:15 F 18:37 F
GHATKOPAR TO CST (G) 09:22 S 09:50 S
DADAR TO KALYAN (DK) TIME S/F 07:48 F 17:41 S 18:42 S 19:47 F 17:14 S 18:00 F 19:01 F 22:08 S 17:25 F 18:15 S 19:10 S
DADAR TO AMBERNATH (DA) TIME S/F 07:08 F
DADAR TO DOMBIVLI (DDL) TIME S/F 21:16 S
THANE TO KARJAT (TS) TIME S/F 04:59 S 05:19 S 17:48 S
THANE TO KARJAT (TS) TIME S/F 04:59 S 05:19 S 17:48 S
KALYAN TO ASANGACN (KAN) TIME S/F 05:10 S
KURLA TO TITWALA (CTL) TIME S/F 04:49 S 05:51 S
THANE TO AMBERNATH (TA) TIME S/F 16:48 S
KURLA TO KALYAN (CK) TIME S/F 17:00 S
KURLA TO C.S.T. (C) TIME S/F 04:24 S 06:07 S 10:10 S 16:58S 19:24 S 04:45 S 06:44 S 10:34 S 17:28 S 05:06 S 07:12 S 15:15 S 17:45 S 05:23 S 07:37 S 16:09 S 18:26 S 05:43 S 09:23 S 16:36 S 18:34 S
TITWALA TO C.S.T. (TL) TIME S/F 03:55 S 09:00 F 112:49 S 15:48 S 19:40 S 04:31 S 10:42 F 13:05 S 16:14 F 20:20 S 06:13 S 11:03 S 13:33 S 16:40 S 20:39 S 07:25 F 11:25 S 13:57 S 17:08 F 21:17 S 07:59 S 12:00 S 15:05 S 17:35 F 22:33 S 08:26 S 12:23 S 15:26 S 18:14 S 23:18 S
KHOPOLI TO C.S.T. (KP) 09:13 F 13:57 F 16:23 F 17:55 F 21:41 S
KALYAN TO C.S.T. (K) TIME S/F 04:57 S 08:12 S 10:54 S 14:52 S 18:51 S 05:12 S 08:20 F 11:07 S 15:16 S 19:02 S 05:22 S 08:37 F 11:28 S 15:52 F 19:14 S 05:40 S 08:41 F 11:33 S 16:00 F 19:22 S 05:57 S 08:55 F 12:29 S 16:20 S 19:37 S 06:51 S 09:06 F 12:54 S 16:30 F 19:41 S 07:02 S 09:23 S 13:12 S 16:38 S 19:50 S 07:13 S 09:42 S 13:29 S 17:15 F 20:18 S 07:14 F 09:51 F 13:42 S 17:40 S 20:35 S 07:23 S 09:55 S 13:57 S 18:02 S 21:01 S 07:42 S 10:11 S 14:06 S 18:20 F 22:20 S 07:51 F 10:16 S 14:21 S 18:23 S 07:56 S 10:30 S 14:33 F 18:27 S 08:05 L 10:46 S 14:38 S 18:40 F
C.S.T TO THANE (T) TIME S/F F06:45 S 09:12 F 11:51 S 16:50 S 19:48 S 06:53 S 09:22 S 12:04 S 17:00 S 20:07 S 07:02 S 09:26 F 12:25 S 17:08 S 20:18 S 07:16 S 09:44 S 12:54 S 17:17 S 21:05 S 07:25 S 09:53 S 13:10 S 17:27 S 21:14 S 07:42 S 09:55 F 13:27 S 17:42 S 21:21 S 07:54 S 10:09 S 13:53 S 18:00 S 21:56 S 07:59 S 10:15 F 14:03 S 18:10 F 22:04 S 08:10 S 10:17 S 14:26 S 18:19 S 22:16 S 08:19 S 10:25 S 15:17 S 18:29 S 22:44 S 08:33 S 10:45 S 15:34 S 18:44 S 22:53 S 08:51 S 11:04 S 16:00 S 19:04 F 22:58 S 08:54 F 11:25 S 16:17 S 19:20 S 23:10 S 08:56 S 11:30 S 16:25 S 19:24 S 23:24 S 09:00 S 11:43 S 16:35 S 19:33 S 00:25 S
C.S.T TO ANDHERI (AD) TIME S/F 04:27 S 08:01 S 12:13 S 15:48 S 19:42 S
04:55 S 08:38 S 12:35 S 16:18 S 20:11 S
05:12 S 09:00 S 13:00 S 16:45 S 20:35 S
05:26 S 09:26 S 13:27 S 17:12 S 21:10 S
05:52 S 09:51 S 13:58 S 17:38 S 21:46 S
06:15 S 10:18 S 14:16 S 18:05 S 22:14 S
06:39 S 10:47 S 14:27 S 18:35 S 22:41 S
07:10 S 11:13 S 14:54 S 18:56 S 23:07 S
07:38 S 11:46 S 15:23 S 19:10 S 23:43 S
C.S.T. TO BELAPUR (BR) 05:20 S 09:42 S 13:23 S 16:11 S 20:39 S
06:19 S 09:58 S 13:39 S 16:37 S 21:19 S
06:43 S 10:28 S 14:10 S 17:03 S 21:33 S
06:54 S 10:54 S 14:10 S 18:25 S 21:56 S
07:48 S 11:09 S 14:32 S 19:00 S 23:36 S
08:23 S 11:29 S 14:50 S 19:14 S 00:03 S
08:41 S 11:58 S 15:11 S 19:32 S 00:28 S
09:12 S 12:40 S 15:40 S 20:00 S
C.S.T. TO BANDRA (B) TIME S/F 04:43 S 08:46 S 12:44 S 16:58 S 21:28 S
05:08 S 09:15 S 13:15 S 17:29 S 22:00 S
05:37 S 09:38 S 13:43 S 17:52 S 22:27 S
06:04 S 10:03 S 14:20 S 18:20 3 22:55 S
06:29 S 10:35 S 14:42 S 18:43 S 23:23 S
06:58 S 11:01 S 15:07 S 19:27 S 00:11 S
07:25 S 11:33 S 15:36 S 19:56 S 00:38 S
07:52 S 12:03 S 16:03 S 20:27 S
08:17 S 12:23 S 16:33 S 20:57 S
ANDHERI TO CS.T. (AD) TIME S/F 05:17 S 09:25 S 13:28 S 18:02 S 22:06 S
05:44 S 09:52 S 13:54 S 18:28 S 22:37 S
06:05 S 10:17 S 14:19 S 18:57 S 23:04 S
06:18 S 10:44 S 14:50 S 19:26 S 23:31 S
06:43 S 11:12 S 15:17 S 19:46 S 23:58 S
07:07 S 11:38 S 15:48 S 19:56 S 00:33 S
07:32 S 11:45 S 16:13 S 20:03 S
08:03 S 12:05 S 16:41 S 20:32 S
08:33 S 12:39 S 17:10 S 21:00 S
08:52 S 13:06 S 17:34 S 21:28.S BELAPUR TO CST (BR) 03:49 S 06:54 S 10:56 S 14:36 S 17:48 S
04:04 S 07:30 S 11:11 S 14:50 S 18:14 S
04:22 S 07:52 S 11:40 S 15:21 S 19:39 S
04:58 S 08:08 S 12:11 S 15:47 S 20:15 S
05:27 S 09:00 S 12:23 S 16:08 S 20:34 S
05:54 S 09:39 S 12:40 S 16:31 S 20:48 S
06:13 S 09.53 S 13:23 S 16:53 S 21:17 S
06:35 S 10:23 S 13:57 S 17:22 S 21:54 S
