A man wanted to buy his son a parrot as a birthday present.
The next day he went to the pet shop and saw three identical parrots in a cage.
He asked the clerk, "how much for the parrot on the right?
The owner said it was $250.
"$250", the man said. "Well what does he do?
"He knows how to use all of the functions of Microsoft Office 2000, responds the clerk.
"He can do all of your spreadsheets and type all of your letters."
The man then asked what the second parrot cost.
The clerk replied, $500, but he not only knows Office 2000, but is an expert computer programmer.
Finally, the man inquired about the cost of the last parrot.
The clerk replied, "$1,000."
Curious as to how a bird can cost $1,000, the man asked what this bird's specialty was.
The clerk replies, "Well to be honest I haven't seen him do anything.
But the other two call him "BOSS"!!

1). Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears.
2). Love is strengthened by working through conflicts together.
3). The best thing parents can do for their children is to love each other.
4). Harsh words break no bones but they do break hearts.
5). To get out of a difficulty, one usually must go through it.
6). Never whisper words of love if the feeling is not true...Never share your feeling if you mean to break a heart... Never look into my eyes if all you have to do is lie... and never say hello if you really mean goodbye
7). We take for granted the things that we should be giving thanks for.
8). Guilty is stronger than lust......
9). Love is to give and give more and Lust is to take and take more.
10). If you want to give everything and take everything you are lost.
11). There is nothing called love in the whole world. It is only misguided  feelings and illusions.
12). No matter whats the price, you cant walk away from love.
13). 99% perspiration 1% inspiration, That's what success is made of.
14). You really have to surrender to the love only then it comes to you.
15). I love you so much ...it hurts...

In my work, I come across both extremes of U.S. privilege/class - most of my nursing students have come from protected environments or otherwise provincial (like the rest of the country only more exaggerated here in the Blue Ridge Mtns.)

Never does an encounter with them occur where I don't note how privileged we and our families have been simply to have been born into American, white flesh! I'm obsessed with social oppressions of every -ism, and the race-ism is my focus. Race cannot be teased from the problem of classism, until we get over ourselves and *repent* the first American sins of genocide and slavery: our very own holocaust which people of color cannot and will not *should not* forget.

Some may ask me, and what's this got to do with Nursing?? Since I teach Mental Health Nursing, it's a cakewalk to draw connections from ancestral trauma of the nature delivered by slaveholders/slave-mercha nts, to contemporary mental illness - both black and white. Mental illness is transmitted generationally through both DNA and traumatic histories sustained by family lines.

Is there any wonder we have such a hard time as a nation, responding to the profound suffering in African peoples? We need to confess to the hideous qualities of capitalism that insists we possess far more than ever we could need or use ... and that our greed will kill for the sake of consumerism. So it was from the start of our great nation, and so it is today. Heaven help us.

Sorry Whisper. Justice issues just drive me insane!

-Akelso

Copy Rights
I decided to edit the post today as i received a mail from someone asking me why i published her mail and whether i have her permission or not? surly the tmail is from a friend and she blogs at tblog under the name of " akelso ".... we were in the middle of discussion on the issue when i sugested to post one of her mail with her name in my blog to see what other people have to say about it. You can aslo see her comments on the same post. I know its like publishing a private letter but please know that its with her kind permission. (hope akelso will like to add something about it here, when she reads it)
whisper.

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 Hours in a day are not enough; remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 cups of coffee.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open Areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full.
They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full.

The students responded with an unanimous "yes."
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand.
The students laughed.

"Now," said the professor as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are The important things--your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions---and if everything else was Lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The Pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car. The sand is everything else---the small stuff."

"If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you."

"Pay attention to the things that are critical to your Happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take Your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be
Time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first---the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee Represented. The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just Goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, There's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."

Junior asks his dad "DADDY! HOW WAS I BORN?"
His dad, who is a software engineer sighs and replies, "Ah, my son, I guess one day you would have to find out anyway!" "Well, I saw your Mom and we first got together in a chat room on MSN. Then I set up a date via e-mail with your mom and we met at a cyber-cafe. We sneaked into a secluded room, where your mother agreed to a download from my hard drive. As soon as I was ready to upload, we discovered that neither one of us had used a firewall, but it was too late to hit the delete button."

"Six weeks later your mom sent me an instant message saying that her operating system was showing signs of unauthorized program activity from a self extracting file which had implanted in her BIOS. Then nine months later a little Pop-Up appeared
and said:

You've Got Male'!"

Monday : The Captain saluted me, how smart he is.

Tuesday: Was invited to see the view from the Deck with the Captain.

Wednesday: Captain invited me to dine with him at his table.

Thursday: Spent the day with the Captain.

Friday: Captain made an indecent proposal.

Saturday: Captain said he'd sink the ship if I refused.

Sunday: Saved 500 lives.

Some Facts First :

• Globally, more than 25 Million people have died since 1981.
• In Africa, more than 40 Million children have been orphaned due to HIV.
• India is the world's highest HIV/Aids casehold with 5.7 Million infected people.
• Women represent half of all the people living with Aids.
• African American women accounted for 67 % of estimated cases in 2004.
• Since the mid 80's, the proportion of Aids cases among women has more than tripled, from 7 % in 1985 to 27 % in 2004.
• In 2005, HIV/Aids related illnesses caused 3.1 Million deaths worldwide.
• In 2005, five million new HIV infections occured globally approximately 14,000 each day.
• About two-thirds of all the people estimated to be living with HIV reside in Africa.

Two decades after the identification of HIV / Aids (Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the world is witnessing the enormous and multiplying consequence of the epidemic. The virus continues to strengthen its hold in all countries of the world. The Lack of awareness and preconceived notions regarding it can only aggravate the problem. Here are the most common myths and misconceptions that people all over the world have regarding HIV.

• HIV is the same as the AIDS : This couldn,t be further from the truth. HIV is a virus and Aids is a collection od illnesses. Knowing the difference between the two is a very important part of understanding.
• HIV can be transmitted on physical contact : This statement is partly true. However, it should be strictly noted that HIV or Aids is not transmitted through tears, sweat, salive, by shaking hands, sharing clothes, rooms or meals, or by nursing an HIV/Aids patient.
• HIV only affects homosexual men and drug users: HIV can infect anyone - hetrosexual as well as homosexual men and women , babies, teenagers and old people.
• We both have HIV , we don't need contraceptives/precaution s : Not true. Experts are seeing more and more incidences of re-infection , making HIV treatment even mor edifficult.
• People over 50 don't get HIV : Don't bet on it. People over 50 make up a rapidly rapidly growing segment of the HIV population.
• I have HIV, I can't have children : This used to be true but not anymore. Women living with HIV can and do have families, by taking certain precautions and following some steps.
• My family doctor can treat my HIV : Experts believe that given the complexities of HIV care , only HIV specialists should manage patients infected with the virus.
• HIV can be cured : While many make claims of miraculous cures , the sad truth is there is no cure so far for the HIV. Be careful of quacks offering cures and miracles. If it sounds too good too be true it probably is.
• Why don't we have a vaccine ? While progress is being made, vaccine development is not without its challenges and difficulties. Many experts feel we are still many years away from an effective HIV vaccine.
• I have just been diagnosed, am i going to die ? This is the biggest myth of all. People are living with HIV longer today than ever before. Treatment programmes and a beeter understanding of HIV allows those infected to live normal, healthy and productive lives.
  For more information visit http://aids.about.com/cs/aids...

Six years ago, we met each other in a chat room on the internet, we developed a very nice friendship with the passage of time (so far we have not met each other). 2 months after she met me, she met another guy on the internet, both of them fell in love with each other and within no time developed extreme fondness for each other. She kept me updated about her affair and i told her that i'm with her no matter what, warning her about the hazzards of the internet and telling her to be careful and all that. He turned out to be a very nice guy and belonged to her faith too, with a good business and a nice family too. The only problem with the guy was that he was married. No my friend was quite upset to find out this as she never wanted to ruin his family and kids, but she told me that she could not imagine to live without him.

It was shocking for me to know that the guy is married, but i knew that she had gone too far in her love for the guy. I tried to convince her that its better to forget him and leave him alone with his family cause niether her parents will agree to it nor that guy will give up his family. Although she respected my advice but never took it (lolz.. i know you will read it ). Thanx to her that she shared every little thing with me and i advised her accordingly and i decided to stand by her no matter what. A time came when both of them decided to come to me and get married (their faith allows polygamy for men) without any consent of His or Her family. I agreed and told her that i will make all sorts of arrangements required. But again they changed their mind. Finally they got married in secret, without even informing the close family or friends, without even informing me.

I was with her then, i am with her now and i will stand by her side always, no matter she takes right decisions or wrong , i will be with her and support her in every way i can. She is indeed a lovely friend.

Recently she sent me this photograph and this is her bridal dress, she is living alone, he is living with his family and kids. He does not have to support her financially (necessarily), she lives on her own, but she is far more happy this way, she says i just need his name, his love and a feeling that he is mine and that is sufficient to pass this life. He can hardly afford to give her few hours a day and sometimes not even those but she never complains. I wish them both a happy life ahead i know its hard for her to live like this all her life but she married to nothingness.

Did they do the right thing ? Will she be able to pass all her life like this? what should he do ? should he tell his family and his wife about the new marriage? Should he not give more time to her? She is my very best net friend and i am really worried about her and though im always with her but i think it was too early for her to get married, they could have taken some more time and thought it over.

Aries (Mar 21 -Apr 19)

DO'S
Aries are naturally active and vibrant people and they tend to like such people too. You will have to increase your pace to be in step with them. They like and appreciate frank and straightforward persons. With them you can be your true self (but don't try your luck being over frank-they are volatile). If you are in love with an Arien, then you have to show your enthusiasm in all their activities (you can always yawn later!).  
DON'TS
Do not tell an Aries that s/he may be wrong. Any such statement may stir a storm in a teacup. Aries are very faithful and passionate lovers. Do not give air to the smoldering fire within them by making them jealous. No flirtation or fooling around with others in their presence unless of course you wish to write your death wish (you will be granted!). 
Taurus (Apr 20-May 20)    & nbsp;
DO'S
Stability and dependability characterise Taurus. They like people who can blend and grow with them. If you have a Taurus partner you should appreciate all things bright and beautiful. They have an inherent artistic sense and are fond of color and music. Judge life with them from a purely materialistic point of view. Enjoy everything luxurious that money can provide. Enjoy good food (better if you can cook to please them) and good drinks with them.
DON'TS
Taurus do not loose their temper easily (in fact you may spend the whole life with them and still no spark) but you should not push your luck too much. Being unreasonable or aggressive with them may get you into trouble. Do not press him/her into a corner, and if you do, be prepared for a violent rage. Taurus is capable of violent outbursts though such an event is is very rare occasions. They can be suffocating when they are possessive about you. 
Gemini (May 21-June 21)    & nbsp;
DO'S
Gemini is a highly intellectual and versatile person. If you have a Gemini partner you have to match your wits with his/her wits to keep the zing in the relationship. They want to be mentally stimulated so you have to be good at conversing. Your sense of humour will get you a permanent residence in the heart of a Gemini. Be more communicative with them, and if you are good at this, you will never know how hours pass by holding each other's hand.   
DON'TS
Gemini's like to do many things at the same time, so if unfortunately you are the type who is looking for stability you may get disappointed. Do not hold back a Gemini or you may lose him/her, as they are restless and need change in life constantly. You should try to adopt yourself with the ever-changing Gemini. Orthodox or conservative old fashion ideas are no-no in their dictionary. Change with the ever-changing Gemini and do not flow against the current.

Cancer   (Jun22 - July 22)    
DO'S
Try to adapt yourself with the changing moods of the Cancer. At one moment they may be laughing and enjoying and in another they may sulk. You may have to adjust with the moody and sensitive Cancer. They are like the tides in the ocean, always fluctuating. Cancerians love food, so if you know how to cook and can be poetic and romantic (added Bonus) then you know the way to their heart.  
DON'TS
Cancerians are very sensitive people and can get easily hurt. So do not play with their emotions and sentiments. They are like tides that can sweep you along. They form emotional bonds with even inanimate things, so do not ask them to discard old caps or souvenirs. Such things hold special meaning to them. You have to realise that the crabs have a soft heart and are vulnerable. Do not contradict their tested line of thought and action, it would only lead to confusion. 
Leo   (Sep 22 - Oct23)    & nbsp; 
DO'S
If you have Leo partner respect him and his majestic manners. Accept the advice of Leo, the lion, as he is the king of the jungle. It is the sign of a showman, so if your partner does everything in grand style enjoy it. They fall easily for flattery and want to be centre of attraction of all eyes (sometimes they can be quiet theatrical too).  
DON'TS
Never ever hurt the ego of a Leo. Pride, ego and vanity are some of the bags Leo's always carry with them. Do not touch these bags. An authoritative Leo is even more difficult to handle in such circumstances. Leo is a sunny sign so they do not like people who are gloomy or depressed. Even if you are crying at heart keep a sunny smile on your lips and then let the lion take charge and remove all worries from your life.   
Virgo   (Aug 23 - Sept22)   
DO'S
Virgo's are very methodical and have a great sense of duty. However, they are blind to their own faults. So, if you have a Virgo partner emphasize more on their qualities. Take keen interest in what they are doing and you will realize that they will go out of their way to help you. Do rely and appreciate their mental powers rather than their physical powers. They can turn even an unsuccessful venture into a success.  
DON'TS
Do not push a Virgo into limelight or on the centre stage unless of course they do so, on their own. They are shy and reserved by nature and do not like to be the cynosure of all eyes. Virgo's have secrets that they would not like to bring out in the open. So, even if you have the key to their secret skeleton-closet, hide it; do not even admit that you know anything about it. Virgo, the virgins, does not want to tarnish their public image.
Libra   (Sep 22 - Oct 23)   
DO'S
Librans need peace and harmony in all their relationships, so help them maintain that. Venus, the ruling planet, gives them beauty and they have weakness for people who can compliment them about their beauty (you will not have to make an effort to do that anyway). You can help Libra seek union and partnership in life. If you have a Libra partner you can be sure to share beautiful and pleasurable moments together.  
DON'TS
Libra is kind and gentle soul but very argumentative. Hence, do not start an argument or discussion unless, of course, you are free and do not know how to pass your time. They hate to lose and most probably during an argument may change sides too (remember scales can tilt) and still continue arguing from the other side. Do not push your Libra partner into making decisions. They will keep weighing pros and cons and may still not be able to come to any decision. Have patience ! 
Scorpio   (Oct 23 - Nov 21)   
DO'S
Scorpio's are full of passion and zest for life. They have tremendous drive that can involve you too. Tune in to their wavelength and you can enjoy the harmony and music of life with them. Scorpio's are loyal and never forget a kind deed done by you. If you want to enjoy life with your Scorpio lover, share their passion and intensity and you will be fascinated by how beautiful life can be with them.  
DON'TS
Scorpio's are very passionate and intense but they are also fiercely possessive and would like to possess your mind, body and soul. Do not let seeds of jealousy grow in them because then you may have to suffer agonies of jealousy and discontentment in life. Scorpio's have explosive tempers. Be careful how you handle them. They never let anyone know what is going on in their mind till they strike and you may be caught unaware. Do not flirt around in the presence of your Scorpio lover.
Sagittarius   (Nov 22 - Dec 21)  
DO'S
Sagittarius is basically a happy go lucky kind. You can enjoy with them their zest and enthusiasm for life. They bubble with excitement. And if you share the same interests and hobbies, life can be great fun together. They are frank and straightforward so if you want some truthful opinion about anything or anyone go to them. Be optimistic as they are and view life as glass half full.  
DON'TS
Sagittarius is fiercely independent and cannot tolerate restriction. Hence, do not try to hold them back in life. Let them enjoy their freedom because if you hold any special place in their heart they will always come back for you. Do not feel irritated by the exaggeration in their speech. They may go on and on, talking about certain things that may not even interest you, but its their way of trying to communicate with you. They are basically frank and outspoken (to the point of being rude), so do not feel offended by their talks.
Capricorn   (Dec 22 - Jan 20)   
DO'S
Capricornia's are strong and dependable. Hence, if you want to put your money on anyone it is of course this zodiac sign. They are practical and conservative in their outlook and they expect you to blend in their colour. They set certain standards for themselves in their life and they will always try to maintain those standards. For them social status and image is very important in life. 
DON'TS
Do not expect a Capricorn mate to open his/her heart and pour everything to you. They are very secretive and reserved people. They are very thorough in all their affairs and hate any kind of sloppiness. People born under this zodiac are very tight-fisted and economical. Do not expect lavish gifts from them and if they do give you any gift (that is very rare) it will have some practical use (no romance please) but that does not mean you will be deprived of anything; on the contrary you will be well provided.

Aquarius   (Jan 21 - Feb 21)   
DO'S
Aquarius are friendly and fascinating people. They have in-depth knowledge about various subjects and you can converse with them for hours without getting bored. They are capable of giving a lot of love that can be amazing. They have a very broad outlook of life and you can relax in their presence. They will always welcome your ideas and actions about humanitarian causes. To keep an Aquarius lover interested you must possess that mysterious and intriguing quality. Once hooked they will always be very faithful to you.  
DON'TS
Do not expect or plan a normal, simple and predictable life with an Aquarius partner. Aquarians are totally unpredictable. They can go to any direction without giving any advance notice. They are basically very restless and get bored easily. Though they are very friendly, do not expect them to reveal their inner most feelings to you (they never will). They can be detached and impersonal, which may seem strange to others.
Pisces   (Feb 22 - Mar 21)    
DO'S
Pisceans are sensitive and charming. If you are looking for someone who is understanding and can understand your feelings then you have met the right person. You should appreciate their feelings too, as in your time of need they are sure to help you. Pisces have a keenly developed sixth sense and have great intuitive powers. Their hunches may usually be right on mark. But they can exhaust their physical and mental energies. They are born dreamers and you can build palaces with your dream lover (only in real life it may become a little difficult preposition).  
DON'TS
Pisces are dreamers and you should not expect them to have worldly ambitions. They are not materialistic in nature. It is not that they like living below the poverty line but they have no earnest desire to accumulate wealth. They are very sensitive and you have to be always careful about their feelings. The fishes are capable of drowning you in their tears (even men born under this sign).