Watch this space

Ok so I have blogged each week this entire year. Some are my own topics and others were given to us by our lecturer. Starting this blog, it gave me “my” space to say what I want and how I want to say it. It gave me the opportunity to voice my opinion.

The year is coming to an end and whether I will blog each week is a question I myself cannot answer right now. What I do know for sure is that I will definitely return with many more stories, so watch this space!

You cannot chase two rabbits at the same time.

In today’s busy lives we tend to want to do more than one thing at a time. People juggle between being a mother, a wife, business women and just a friend. They want to be there for everyone else without realising about themselves. They want to chase two rabbits at one time and this is when the stress and anxiety starts.

Being humans we tend to feel that we have so many roles to play that we forget to think about our health. Stress is a major risk factor that people still tend to take lightly. We might not feel this, but there is enough time for everything. We are not the super heroes of this town. We do possess these skills but we need to catch our breath and only chase one rabbit at a time.

Why I have conversations?

A conversation is a form of communication between two or more people. People have conversations for many reasons.

I tend to have conversations for different reasons. I will have a conversation when I need to view others opinion or when I need more information concerning a topic. I have conversations with my friends because we can relate on a topic or because have stories and information to share. I will have a small conversation with customers to show interest and be customer friendly.

A conversation is successful when both parties can discuss and relate to a topic. I enjoy having a conversation because I can share my opinion and I can learn a lot from others.

The WTF Media Conference

For the past 12 years the Cape Peninsula University of Technology organised an annual media conference. This year the Wednesday Thursday Friday Media Conference took place from 20 - 22 October 2010 at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. The conference was hosted by well-known pioneers in social media, mobile media and clouding computing.

Various guest speakers presented on various interesting topics, some of the topics presented were;
• Mark Horner – Using Open-Everything And Social Media To Support the Teaching
Value Chain
• Jarred Cinman - From Websites to Digital Presences: the changing landscape
of marketing and media in the digital age
• Andy Hadfield - Online Reputation Management: 10 considerations for shaping
your strategy
• Daniel Neville – Crowdsourcing and Its Effect On The Marketing And
Communications Industry
• Paul Stafford – The Cloud: A South African Success Story
• Eran Eyal – Crowdsourcing: traveling beyond the barriers of Social Media
space
• Shel Israel - Twitterville People
• And many many more.

What amazed me most about this conference is that technology is becoming a part of our daily lives that soon before we know it everything we do will be related to technology. Social media is the “in thing” and if you are not part of it you are losing out.

This conference was a success and all thanks goes to the organising committee for broadening our knowledge on this. We can surely benefit a lot from it both personally and professionally.

The last lecture

Our last final lecture for the year will take place on Wednesday, 10 November 2010. This will be the last class we have as the PR BTech’s of 2010.

These past four year have flown by so fast. I still remember when I came for the very first day for registration. Everyone was a stranger to me and I was not aware of who my friends would be. Four years later and we grew four years older together and built relationships we were not aware would exist.
These past four years has had its ups and down but that is life; you give some, you lose some. One this that is for certain is that these years have moulded me into being a PR practitioner. I have learnt many things which I will take with me through my career journey.

I am thankful to my lecturers for parting their knowledge and experiences with us. Their time and effort is greatly appreciated. Without them we would not be where we are today. To my friends and classmates, these past years have allowed me to meet new and wonderful people. Everyone has their unique personality which made our years entertaining. Without you class would just be boring.

A change is happening for many of us. We are now leaving the student life and entering the business world. For many this is a shift in our comfort zone. We might feel fear or uncertainty but we all have our own plans and dreams that we are going to follow. Never be afraid of what you want to achieve. Like Dr Spencer said, fear can be good; it is only bad when it holds us back from doing anything.

The life ahead will have its twists and turns. We make use our mistakes as a lesson and only strive for the better. May we always be successful in what we do and never be afraid to follow our heart.

“Nothing is more dangerous than an idea, when you only have one idea” (Alain).

When we have an idea we tend to sometimes just focus on this one idea. We put every thought and energy into making this idea work. What we do not always realise is that sometimes our ideas may not work out the way we plan it. Sometimes we need more than one idea to make our original idea a reality.

When we think of an idea and we want to make it work, we need to think of other ideas to help make it happen. Sometimes the idea we plan can have a completely different outcome. Then what? This is why we need more than one idea to help or solve our idea when it does not go according to plan.

My incomplete bucket list

1. Volunteer at an orphanage
2. Make a difference in someone’s life (someone who needs help)
3. Bungee jumping
4. Sky-diving
5. Swim in the ocean
6. Swim with the sea animals
7. Travel the world
8. Get married
9. Start my own family
10. Open my own coffee shop
11. Help the needy
12. Make a name for myself
13. Do something I love
14. Take a year off and just enjoy life
15. Fly in a jet
16. Go on a motorbike
17. Go parachuting
18. Learn to cook delicious meals
19. Host a costume party
20. Sew stunning outfits
21. Explore the wildlife
22. Make a change

My big fat BIG dream

There are many people who live life without ambition. They get up each morning and live each day the same; sleep, shower, eat, work, home, eat, sleep. This is their cycle of life. They are not happy but they are too afraid to move from their comfort zone.

Many do not realise this but there is more to life than just work. We need time to play and explore. Having a dream gives us reason and excitement to live life. Having a dream allows us to explore different avenues of life. It allows us to see what God has given us and learn to appreciate it. There are people who we can help through our dream. By having a dream we will live life with meaning.

So what is your big fat BIG dream?

Have you figured out the second head fake?

According to my understanding, I would say this statement is talking about people who have two sides. To a certain extend every person has two sides. Like there are always two sides to every story so does every person have two sides.

When we meet people, at first we only get to know the one of them. Other people will tell stories about this person that you might find hard to believe because you never met that side of him/her. This is when we did not meet the second head.

When meeting people and making new friends before you trust them make sure you know them in and out. They will tend to only show you their bright side but before you go deeper in the relationship, make sure you figured out the second head fake.

Andy Warhol said, “In the future everybody will be world famous for fifteen minutes.” You can’t choose the 15 minutes but why would you be world famou

Every human has the burning desire to be known. No one likes going unnoticed or to feel a sense of loneliness. God created each and everyone will the desire to feel a sense of belonging.

Being world famous even if it is just for 15 minutes could be a start to see the change you want to see. The world is not what is used to be. People together with time are constantly changing. Sometimes it is for the better and others for the worst.

If I could choose my 15 minutes of fame it would be to be to see the change I want to see. I would use my fame to be the voice for the children out there who are not heard. For the children who are not loved, for the chilren who require help and education, those who need basic needs such as food and shelter.

Children are the future of this world. If we want to see a better future we need to start by educating and uplifting the children. My fame would definitely be used to make a change.

Orphans Fun Day

On Saturday 2 October 2010, we (youth of Morba) hosted an Orphans Fun Day. This day was held with the intention of giving a few orphans a time to remember. Our day started at 9h00 with a yummy breakfast, followed by fun activities such as; face painting, arts, jumping castle and pony rides. We then had lunch and concluded with a thanks and giving them goodie bags.

This day truly opened my heart and eyes. Some of these orphans lost their parents either in an accident or they were abandoned. These children do not know what it feels like to have individual attention from a parent. They do not know what it feels like to go on a family outing or go on a family holiday. They do not go to family lunches or family parties. Their family is the orphanage. They have their caregivers who are their “parent” and the other orphans are their “brothers and sisters”.

Children are a gift from God. Every child has the right to be a child, to feel happy and have fun. We are only a child once and we should grasp every moment. These children deserve to feel individual love and attention even if it be for a day.

Gratitude goes to the caregivers. They give these children the love of a parent. Without them these children would not have a family or a home.

How hard is it to follow instructions?

Instructions are a set of rules or orders. Instructions make thing easier to follow. Example when we buy a new appliance and we are not familiar with it, an instruction manual makes it easier to use. If an instruction manual is used to make things easier for us then why is it hard for some people to follow?

There are different kinds of people, each with their unique personality. We have those that instruct and those who follow the instructions. Sometimes these followers refuse to follow instructions and insist on doing it their own way. They prefer to struggle and figure it out the hard way.

Instructions are not hard to follow at all. Those who choose to not follow instructions make things harder for themselves.

A skill set called leadership

There are leaders and there are followers. Having good leadership skills is what creates the difference between the two. Many people believe a strong leader is born and not made. I do not necessarily believe this is the case. The same with many other things, educating yourself to become a great leader or a person with great leadership skills takes time, energy and commitment. A leader is a person who has strong principles, courage and dedication. They will go the extra mile to ensure success.

In a business it is essential for a person to have leadership skills to succeed at an executive level. Developing a powerful vision, building a strong team and bringing out the best in those you lead are important aspects to always keep in mind. Great leaders encourage their followers and know how to take control without loosing control.

People will follow a great leader because they represent the beliefs of the group. The followers often provide support for the team to advance and succeed in achieving their goals. A leader with good leadership skills will recognise and reward their team for their great effort.

“Rock journalism is people who can’t write interviewing people who can’t talk for people who can’t read” (Frank Zappa)

Many people, including myself do not know who this dude is that made such an absurd comment about rock journalism. Well, according to wiki, Frank Zappa was an American composer, electric guitarist, record producer, and film director. During his career, spanning more than 30 years, Zappa wrote rock, jazz, electronic, orchestral, and musique concrète works. He also directed feature length films and music videos and designed album covers. He produced almost all of the more than 60 albums he released with the band Mothers of Invention and as a solo artist.

Quite a rock ‘n roller I would say. But what does he mean by this comment? Music journalism is criticism and reportage about music. In the world of pop music criticism can be used as a quick turnover. Rock Journalists are more likely to have long careers with "book contracts, featured columns, and editorial and staff positions at magazines and newspapers compared to pop music journalists.

From this comment we can see that in the realm of rock music critics have not always been respected.

Draconian Censorship

Currently in South Africa there is much debate about the proposed media censorship legislation, the Media Appeals Tribunal (MAT). Hundreds of civil society organisations and individuals including myself, have opposed this proposed media tribunal as it hinders free speech, which characterises democracy in the country.

The media can only report on stories that is made available to them, and who are the ones predominantly making news? The corrupt politician’s of course. To put it simply, if politicians play the role they promised to be in the times of elections, as opposed to the corruption most of them perform, the MAT would have blown over quickly.

However, whether or not the MAT is implemented, I think they (ANC) neglect to consider the internet as a form of new media. How do they plan to control blogs and social networks such as Facebook and Twitter? Once a blog is posted, it is there to be viewed by any individual who has access to the internet. People can comment and post whatever they feel. It is the user of the blogger or Facebook to remove the post, note or status.

In my opinion, with the rise of new media, the process of censorship is frustrated and may prove to be problematic with regards to editing, censoring and locating the internet user.

Not only would the MAT prevent free speech but most South Africans are forgetting or are oblivious to the fact that South Africa may revert back to the apartheid system if a MAT was to be implemented. It is so uncalled for!

My Top 200 Achievements

1. Being able to walk
2. My first tooth
3. Being able to talk
4. Using the toilet and no more a nappy
5. Being able to start reading
6. Being able to write my own name
7. Started to write sentences
8. Learning to colour within the lines (my brother could never do it neatly)
9. Taught how to tie my own shoelaces
10. Being able to ride my tricycle
11. Riding a bicycle
12. Rollerblading
13. Playing netball for school
14. Passing every year at school
15. Made my own pillow in primary schools
16. Being an athlete for inter-school sports
17. Being able to work at my dad shop
18. Attending karate and grading to pink belt
19. Accepted at CPUT to further my studies
20. Studying at an Islamic institution
21. Doing the Dale Carnegie course
22. Speaking in front of more than 500 people
23. Learning another language – urdu
24. I built my own bear
25. Being able to walk on high heels
26. Going for my first wax – painful
27. Sewing my first skirt
28. Sewing my first pants
29. Painting my first picture
30. Doing scrapbooking
31. Having my first tooth extracted
32. Being to type on a pc
33. Knowing how to use a cellphone
34. Passing my learners
35. Passing my driver’s license
36. Driving alone
37. Getting my very own identity document
38. First time fasting for the whole month
39. Cooking my first meal
40. Baking a cake
41. Making a pudding
42. Being able to read the time
43. Having my own facebook account
44. My own twitter account
45. Knitting my first neck scarf
46. Getting a pay cheque – yaay!
47. Ironing my clothes with burning it (or burning my sister’s fingers – oops!)
48. Having my own online blog
49. Posting my first blog
50. Having a personal diary
51. Doing scrapbooking
52. Climbing table mountain
53. Climbing lions head
54. Climbing devils peak
55. Going on a night hike
56. Going on a two-day hike
57. Organising my first party
58. Celebrating a birthday every year
59. Celebrating my crown birthday - 15years old
60. Applying for my first job
61. Going for an interview
62. Getting my first job
63. Getting though my first day at work
64. Organising my first event – I even got a certificate for the great work, hehe!
65. Paying charity
66. Passing my exams
67. Matriculating with exemption
68. Learning how to swim – amazing!
69. Being able to paddle on a swing
70. Blowing a bubble with a bubblegum – I remember feeling proud! J
71. Flying in an aeroplane without getting sick
72. Going on a boat trip and not getting sea sick
73. Volunteering at an orphanage
74. Meeting my bf’s parents – Nerves!
75. Going to the World of Birds – never again though!
76. Writing my first article for a company
77. Compiling a newsletter for a company
78. Interviewing someone
79. Making my first phone call
80. Sending my first sms
81. Creating an email account
82. Sending my first email
83. Taking my first photo and having it developed
84. Babysitting
85. Taking care of our pet
86. Taking a tablet – first time was very difficult!
87. Buying my own pair of shoes
88. Making a paper mache
89. Washing the car
90. Riding a camel
91. Riding a horse
92. Being able to know how to pray – daily 5 prayers
93. Being able to read the Holy Book of Islam
94. Opening a bank account
95. Going on the cobra at Ratanga Junction – aaahh!
96. Watching my first 3D movie – Ice Age 3 (hilarious!)
97. Overcoming my fear for dogs
98. Taking a taxi - scary feeling!
99. Taking a train – never forget that experience!
100. Driving in a public bus
101. Sleeping in my own bed
102. Having my own room – didn’t like it at first
103. Making my own jewellery
104. Sitting on a goat
105. Getting my own library card
106. Taking out library books
107. Getting my own credit card – big girl now! J
108. Being able to plat my own hair – could never do it, still struggle now at times!
109. Flying a kite
110. Buying my own ghd
111. Straightening my hair with my ghd
112. Cutting my own hair – properly too! J
113. Being able to play cricket
114. Being able to play soccer
115. Becoming the secretary for a ladies social society (morba)
116. Organising a hike for the msa of CPUT
117. Learning zumba
118. Completing a puzzle
119. Learning to do decoupage
120. Making a clock
121. Making a paper jet
122. Solving sums in maths
123. Having my ears pierced – extremely painful when you a baby!
124. Completing a big walk
125. Driving a 4x4
126. Every time I go for an injection – which is hardly ever!
127. Completing my first tv-game game
128. Winning in a ps1 game
129. Winning my brother in ps2 games
130. Completing a psp game
131. Changing a light bulb
132. Fixing a bicycle puncture
133. Changing a bicycle wheel
134. Braaing
135. Climbing a tree
136. Planting a plant
137. Caring for a plant
138. Getting my first pocket money
139. Reading my first book – baby book!
140. Reading my first novel
141. Feeding birds – SCARY!
142. Having a pen pal
143. Writing to my pen pal in Argentina
144. Receiving my first pen pal letter
145. Being a vegetarian for 1 week – I love my chicken!
146. Sewing my doll clothes
147. Training to cater
148. Watching my first soccer match live – Manchester United vs Kaizer Chiefs
149. Going to Green Point Stadium for a 2010 Fifa match
150. Going to gym
151. Going to Newlands Rugby Stadium
152. Going inside the SA team’s locker room – was cool but nasty!
153. Being able to blow a vuvuzela
154. Organising a fun day for an orphanage – was amazing!
155. Volunteering at an orphanage
156. Volunteering at the SPCA
157. Attending a funeral
158. Looking through a telescope
159. Sleeping on the mountain
160. Eating on the mountain
161. Wrapping a present
162. Covering my books
163. Going to a strawberry farm
164. Picking cherries
165. Picking oranges at a farm
166. Feeding a goat a bottle of milk
167. Feeing animals at a farm
168. Witnessing a chicken being slaughter
169. Working on photoshop
170. Working in in-design
171. Going to police station to report a crime
172. Standing up to people who did wrong – inconsiderate people!
173. Being able to parallel park now
174. Rescuing a kitten from a tree
175. Taking a stray kitten to the SPCA for vaccinations
176. Being part on the first Twitter lecture
177. Graduating with a Diploma in Public Relations Management (PR)
178. Coming thus far in completing my BTech in PR
179. My first time acting in a play
180. Being part of a march against the war
181. Voicing my opinion
182. Jumping on a jumping castle
183. Jumping on a trampoline
184. Going on a canoe
185. Going for kayaking
186. Going fishing
187. Winning in the game of monopoly
188. Playing and being the winner in board games
189. Going on a date
190. Eating liver and kidneys – first and last time!
191. Witnessing a sheep being slaughtered
192. Witnessing a bull being slaughtered
193. Getting my laptop
194. Getting our first PC
195. Playing golf
196. Playing ten-pin-bowling and winning
197. Going in the sea
198. Swimming in a pool
199. Picking up a cat
200. Finally – being able to survive through each day and help those in need.

Every problem has a solution

Often when an opportunity comes knocking we take it. Suddenly we find ourselves faced with many obstacles, some big others small. The truth is no matter how big or small the problem; there is always a solution, even if it does not seem that way at the moment.

Many people feel that there are no solutions to their problems then they take their own life. This is never the case. There are always solutions. We might not feel like there is a light at the end of the tunnel but there always is one. Some tunnels are just longer than others. Problems allow us to grow. We learn from our mistakes and this is our path to becoming a better person.

God never places a burden upon us heavier that we can bear. So the next time we are faced with a problem, look for the solution because it is right there.

What motivates me?

One of the most important factors that lead us to our goals is motivation. Without motivation we have no zest and determination to persevere. No matter the avenue our life, be it personal or professional, we need motivation.

Every person has their unique factors that motivate them. As we grow older, these factors will change from time to time. What motivates us today might not motivate us tomorrow.
What motivates me is my future. Knowing that each day is a new beginning and a day closer to my dreams.

Every morning when I awake I thank God for allowing me to wake up. Seeing my parents each morning gives me the motivation to strive for the better. Without them I would not have the strength to get through the day. Living in a free country like South Africa gives me the motivation to fulfil my daily desires. There are people who cannot leave their homes for days because of war. Having the privilege to study further motivates me to be something and someone others can look up to. With knowledge comes power and the ability to strive to help others. Having my friends and family by my side and knowing that they support me in my decisions motivates me to be a better me.

These are only but a few factors in life that motivates me. The little things in life is what motivates us the most even though we might not realise it.

The Month of Fast

For all Muslims across the globe the month of Fast has dawned upon us. It is during this month where we abstain from food, drink, sex or anything that enters the body from sunrise to sunset.

This month is bestowed upon us as a blessing. Throughout the year we consume food and luxuries that cause all sorts of diseases, illness and complaints or ailments that harm our bodies. During this month we give our stomach a chance to get a well deserved rest and to get rid from all harmful substances. It serves as a detox for our body.

This month is a reminder of those less for fortunate. We feel their hunger and are reminded to always give to those in need. We are reminded to not over eat and never to waste. We are encouraged to eat and drink in moderation.

This month not only reminds us of hunger but how we should behave as human beings. We should not show hatred, jealousy, selfishness, hypocrisy or other wicked qualities. We should instead adorn ourselves with good qualities.

10 Unexpected consequences of being online

1. Having a power failure.

2. Your computer freezes and you have to start your research all over again.

3. Internet connection is so slow - CPUT!

4. Running out of internet cap.

5. Internet is showing offline because your settings have changed - you did not know!

6. The company you require info from does not have what you are looking for or no contact
details.

7. Delaying your work because you logged in to Facebook or Twitter.

8. Emails not wanting to attach a file due to some arb reason.

9. You cannot access a particular website for a reason you do not know why.

10. Having random people start chatting to you – Freaks!

The elephant in the room

It has been 5 years since we have matriculated. Today we were having a school reunion at the One and Only Hotel. The invitations were admit 1, so my friend and I decided go together.

We were anxious but excited at the same time to see everyone after so many years. Some of our classmates are now married, others gone overseas, some started a career for themselves and others (including myself) are still students.

So there we were, talking, chilling, intermingling with everyone. It was great to see them all again. However, we were awaiting the arrival of one “special” teacher who we could not wait to see. She was “craze” in her own way and loved to attract attention. Suddenly, we just heard someone say “look at the elephant in the room” and we knew she has arrived.

Decisions determines the outcome

Every day we are faced with many decisions, be it what to wear, what to eat or where to go. Our decisions impact the outcome of our day.

Far too often, the decisions we make impact others around us. We are not always aware of this but it is true. When we make decisions that involve others, we tend to feel restricted and annoyed at times.

We need to remember, we are not alone in this world. There are times when we need to stop, contemplate and make decisions that will not harm others in the process. The decisions we make today can and will depict our future.

Who knows...

Today during class we were asked what we plan to do for the next three to four years. After listening to my classmates it made me realise and think about what exactly are my plans for the future.

Yes, I have begun job scouting but, is a job what I really want next year? I guess since I am unsure of my plans it is not a bad idea to continue hunting for a job (for just in case).

What has caused this confusion is the option of studying further. To be honest, I am quite tired of studying and want something new and challenging. Whether I am ready for industry is what scares me. Doing our BTech is supposed to train us to be managers but if this is so, I beg to differ. The year is almost over and still I do not feel I am fit for managerial positions.

Well, with a few months left I guess I need to make up my mind soon. I might decide to enter industry or maybe I will return to the student life, who knows...

Every day is a good day

There are some days where we feel like the world is about to crumble upon us. Days when we feel like absolutely nothing else can certainly go wrong, days we feel like Murphy’s Law has attacked us from all possible angles. While such days might be the worst for us, they could be a good day for others.

When we are faced with pain and hardship we often forget those less fortunate than us. One thing we should always keep in mind is that there are always people worst off than us. While we may be sick in bed and feel this is our worst day, someone else might have been in an accident.

We should keep in mind that every day is a good day. If we maintain a positive attitude then nothing can and will get us down. It is the positivity that will make our life worth living and exploring.

Our greatest strengths are our greatest weaknesses

To many of us our greatest strengths are our greatest weakness. How can this be? Well, if we look at the people in our life; our parents, siblings, our children (if we have) and even our friends are the people whom we turn to when we need advice or comfort.

Our loved ones are pillars in our life that keep us from collapsing in times of hardship. If we fall today they are there to help us stand again tomorrow. They know exactly what it is that can and will bring our spirit back. They encourage us in times of confusion to do what we desire.

However, though they may be our greatest strength, it is times when they stab us in the back that they become our greatest weakness.

Growing up...

From the time we were born our parents had the vision we would attend school, matriculate, select a profession, and get a college degree then work. Once we have our degree then they would feel they have given us the best and now it is time to start our own life. Well, for us that time is now.

At the end of 2010 we will have our degree and we will be expected to make decisions. Would we want to take time off to travel, further our degree or enter the working world? For many of us we would enter the working world; the world, whether we like it or not, we have to enter sooner or later.

When we enter the business world, we need to keep in mind it will be like our first day at crèche. It might seem daunting at first but everything will become clear once we make friends and know what is expected of us. We will be seen as the ‘new kid’, but everyone was there. To grow big, we have to start small.

Many of us will not know where we end up at the end of this year but keep in mind, life has challenges, but we have made it thus far. So let’s spread our wings and show the world who we are. Today we may be the seed, tomorrow we will be the tree.

The Fifa 2010 World Cup experience

Who would have thought that soccer would be the sport that would unite people across the globe? The Fifa 2010 World Cup hosted in our home country is what made one month the most memorable in South African (SA) history.

During 11 June and 11 July 2010 fans from around the world created a sense of belonging. During this period nothing about politics or what country you came from mattered, all what was on everyone’s mind was the soccer.

Experiencing the game at the stadium was phenomenal. I have never experienced anything so WOW! Fans dressed up to show their support for the team they cheering, vuvuzelas being blown from corner to corner, being part of fans had a feeling that you wanted to say “ I am proudly South African”

Not only the stadium but to watch the games at the fanfest, CTICC, V & A Waterfront, Canal Walk and many other places all shared the same or similar experience. It showed the world that although we have our politics and downfalls; SA has the love and potential to host major events.

So while the World Cup 2010 may have come and gone, let us not let go of the sense of belonging that we shared amongst ourselves and the world. Let this only be the beginning.

Try a cliche

Clichés are used everyday be it by the man in the street or your business partner. Clichés are becoming more and more overused because they require no thinking. They are simply there to be used by whomever so wishes.

Clichés are fine when used while having an open conversation but, when used in writing or business conversations it can be daunting. As Public Relation Practitioners we are required and expected to be professional communicators. By using clichés we can damage our image and reduce the effectiveness of our verbal and written communication.

Remeber, cliché is a French word meaning “old picture” so while that may be cool in the antique shop or in the world of art, avoid them in the business world.

Parting with this world

We all know that death waits for no one. We all have a contract with death but we do not know when this contract will expire.

Leaving this world is the hardest knowing that they will never visit again. They are no longer just a phone call away. They are gone forever.

When we leave this world, we leave the way we entered; with absolutely nothing. All we leave behind is our name and memories for the ones we love. I guess no one can ever be prepared when a love one dies no matter how sure we are it is going to happen. Often people are so sick we know they are not going to be here very long. Yet, when they actually go, it feels like you have been hit by a car.

Death comes and goes and everyone will part with this world, with the ones we love. So, why not leave a name behind that will bring a smile when it is heard. Live life like there is no tomorrow and live the way you want to be remembered.

Feelings follow behaviour

Have you ever felt that strong urge to do something you never thought you would do? Like jumping out of an aeroplane or off a bridge? Like you need to step out of the box and do something daring, allow your body and mind to be free?

Well, often we are afraid to step out of our comfort zone because we are not sure how we will react to it. Once we are pushed to do something, forced to take the leap, then only do we feel the desire to fly.

Often when we feel down like we are tired of living life as everyday is the same. It is when we step out of our comfort zone and realise there is more to life that we begin to feel whole again.

Every cloud has its silver lining

Have you ever felt like things are just not going your way? Like you seem to be falling and you just cannot get on your feet? Like you just wish you could close your eyes and everything will be alright?

Well, if you think your life cannot get worse, it can. There are people out there whose life is much worse than yours. You are still fortunate to have a home, food, clothes and family and friends who are there for you. You are physically fit to get around, to walk, hear, taste, feel and see. There are others out there who are not as fortunate as you are and they are not the one’s complaining. They are content with what God has given them even though they cannot see, hear, talk or walk.

Look at Oscar Pistorius for example, he is a man with no legs and he sprinted 100 metres in 10.91 seconds. He did not sit at home and complain that he has no legs. Instead, he proved to the world that even a man with no legs can do things normal people can do.

So, if you think your life is upside down and you cannot take it longer. Think of those less fortunate than you and tell yourself you are fortunate and nothing will get you down. God will never put a burden on you heavier than what you can bare.

Remember, every cloud has a silver lining. It might not shine today but it definitely will shine tomorrow.

It is better to practice a little than talk a lot

There are two kinds of people in this world; those who talk a lot and do nothing, and those you talk little but do a lot. Some people tend to talk a lot and always want to show others that they are better. They speak like they are top of the notch but actually have nothing. Then you have those show modest, who do not want to do it to show others but do it for themselves.

The person who practices a little everyday will achieve much more than the person who talks a lot but practices nothing. A goal can only be achieved if you work towards it. You cannot talk about your goal and then expect it to come true.

Practice makes perfect. Without practice nothing will be perfected.

Happy Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day (9 May 2010) is the one day we should show love, gratitude and respect to our mothers. Yes, many of us might say mother’s day is everyday that is why we do not celebrate mother’s day. But do we show love, gratitude and respect everyday to our mother? Do we go to her everyday and say “I love you mommy”? Do we do little things everyday to show her that she is special that we are grateful to have a mother?

Many of us take all these little things for granted. We take our mother for granted. She does the worlds of things for us and yet we do not show appreciation often. When she makes our lunch, when we hungry and we come home she makes us supper, she cares for us when we are sick, when we are down or when we just need someone to talk to. We might not see this now but one day when she is no longer we will reflect and regret how little we did for her. Every mother is a super mum, some just show it differently.

I say celebrate Mother’s Day and make your Mum feel special, make her feel like the queen, show her how much she means to you and that no matter what, you will always need a mother like her.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers :)

Wedding cake-in-the-middle-of-the road

In the middle of the road stood the wedding cake of Claire Benjamin. The wedding cake was thrown out the car window just after Claire received a phone call from her fiancé saying he could not go through with the wedding.

Mixed emotions rushed through Claire’s body but the emotion that took control of her was her anger. This is when she grabbed the cake and threw it out the window. She asked the driver to stop the car and began sobbing. She could not understand how after three years her fiancé could call off the wedding and elope with a girl he barely new.

So there Claire was sitting by the side of the road with the wedding cake smashed in the middle of the road. The way the wedding was looking, that was the way Claire was feeling. She felt crushed, ugly, a huge mess and like there was no way anyone could make her feel better.

How time flies...

Here we are today, Btech students completing our profession in Public Relations Management. I still remember the days when my friends and I could not wait to start campus and be “free” from our teachers and from our hideous school uniform. We would dream of how fun life would be and how we could just sit and relax anytime in the cafeteria (not like we have much of one now-hehe).

When campus started, I could not wait to experience the working world. Well, I was there, done that and do not want to go back. It feels like life is just one big cycle that we all experience; nursery school, primary school, high school, university, work, marriage, children, grandchildren and then the grave yard.

I think we need to step out of this circle for a while and ponder what do we want to achieve in life? Time is catching up and time waits for no one. We need to open our eyes and know what we really want out of life. Do we really want to live life thinking “if only” or do we want to tell a story using “I did”.

Is it a poor idea to lie to yourself?

We all tend to lie once in a while, whether it is a big lie or a small white lie. To lie to someone else can have consequences but to lie to yourself can be a good thing at times.

Our brains are divided into two sections, the conscious and the sub-conscious. We all live in a very busy and depressing world filled with crime and misfortune. Yes, life should be the most wonderful journey we experience but not all of us are on that path yet.

I think it is ok to lie to yourself when we want to comfort our souls and know that every cloud has a silver lining. When we want to achieve goals in life, it is important for us to visualise our goals. By visualising, we manipulate our conscious mind into thinking that we already have this goal. By doing this we are lying to ourselves.

Sometimes we need to lie to get ourselves up and going again. Yes, we know deep down that it is not true. But, if we can use our sub-conscious mind to lie to our conscious mind then why not use it to make our lives a happier journey.

The sound of one hand clapping

Clapping usually involves two hands and is used to show excitement, achievements or even joy. The way I see it, the sound of one hand clapping symbolizes loneliness. No sound comes from one hand clapping. The sound is empty, boring and lonely.

To experience the true joy of life we need someone to share it with. We cannot argue alone, we cannot love alone, and we cannot show gratitude or appreciation if we were alone. We need someone in our lives to share every moment. God created us to love and to be loved. How lonely would we be if we were to spend our lives alone?

Therefore, the sound of one hand clapping is a lonely sound but two hands clapping emphasize joy and excitement. This is the way our lives should be spent on this earth.

What people would do for a Fifa 2010 ticket

It was announced that Fifa tickets would go on sale on Monday, 19 April 2010 at 9am at 18 selected Shoprite Checkers stores across the country. Out of this 18, two were allocated to the Western Cape.

Sunday night I receive a call (from Lynn) saying that if I want tickets I should go through NOW because there is “fat” queue! Monday morning at 12.30am my sister and I decided to go to Checkers in Plumstead. When we arrived we were number 92. Yes, at 12.30am we were number 92!

We waited till 9am and during the night the queue grew and grew till there were approximately 300 people waiting in the rain and cold just for Fifa 2010 Cape Town (CT) tickets.

9am comes and Checkers informs us that there are currently NO CT tickets! Waiting whole night just to hear this was not pleasant. People became grumpy, angry and frustrated. It was announced that tickets would be on sale and yet there is still nothing!

Slowly but surely some people left, some bought tickets in other provinces, but no one could buy tickets for the CT matches. Yet, some still remained (including myself) to find out what exactly is happening as this is no longer acceptable.

We were told by a Fifa representative that there are CT tickets but they are not available just yet. We should keep our ears and eyes peeled.

Through sunshine or rain, hunger or thirst, no sleep or sleep, those who are desperate for CT tickets will try their utmost to get it. Do not give up just yet. If the dream is big enough, the facts don’t count!

Not all who wander are lost

Life is a journey and we are here to enjoy every step of the way be it good or bad. Not all who wander are lost because through wandering we discover new things and taste life.

If everyone stuck to one thing and never allowed their minds to wander the world would not be as it is today. We would all be stuck in a paradigm and be too scared to try new adventures, new inventions.

God created every human as an individual and to experience the journey of life in their own way. No man is the same and those who allow themselves to wander are the ones who leave a foot print bigger than the rest.

Knowledge is power

After 3 years of studying the National Diploma Public Relations Management (PR) students graduated on Saturday, 17 April 2010 at 14h00.

Excitement filled us as the day finally arrived. We received our gowns and they were hideous, huge and drowned most of us. They sat like black bags on us. But, that was not the highlight. One of the highlights for most of us was seeing our fellow classmates after what feels like a decade.

The other highlight was when our names were announced. Yes, this was when we stepped on the stage (worried nothing stupid would happen to us that would cause us huge embarrassment) and feeling like we accomplished something. Well, we did accomplish something. We accomplished studying 3 years of PR. Something not everyone can say.

Now that we gained this knowledge, we need to implement it. We all know that knowledge is power, but knowledge only becomes power when we implement it. Someone can have all the knowledge in the world but if he does not implement it or take action upon what he learnt then that knowledge is useless.

As PR graduates the time has come for us to put action to what we have learnt and rise in our profession be the best PRP’s we can be.

How do you step from the top of a 100-foot pole?

OMW! How on earth did I end up at the top of a 100-foot pool? Aaahhh! Just peeking down makes my head spin, I cannot stand heights! I need to get down, but how?! Please help me!!!

The last thing I want to do is cause a scene and do something totally stupid and end up having the fire brigade, policemen and even the ‘e news’ here! I do not need any more embarrassment in my life.

I need to consider my options and then make a decisive decision. What options do I have? Hmm...Well, I could jump but then I could get really hurt. So no, I am not jumping. Wait! Maybe I could pinch myself and wake up from this dreadful dream... Ouch! Ok, so it is not a dream. I know! I will slide down the pole. Firemen do it all the time so I should be able to do it as well.

Yes, I am going to slide my way down this 100-foot pole.

Take the jump

From the moment we open our eyes we are faced with making decisions. Everything, from what to wear to what time we leave for work, requires a decision, however small. Decision making affects everything we do.

With almost every decision we make there is some sort of risk involved. When we decide to eat fast food, we put our health in risk. When we decide not to work today, there is a risk involved. So no matter how small the decision there is a risk is linked.

We are not always aware that we are constantly faced with making decisions. Yet, when we are required to take the big jump it seems like we cannot do it. Our whole life we are faced with making decisions. Without deciding what we want to do, life would be boring.

How are we supposed to live life to the fullest when we are afraid to jump? We need that adrenaline rush to experience life. Life is more than just going to school or work and earning to live. Life is about making the right decision and being able to tell a story about it.

So the next time we are required to make a decision, think what is the worst that can happen then just take that jump and fly.

We are what we do

God has given us a body with a mind and soul. The mind allows us to think and do things we wish to.

Our intentions are just thoughts, not our actions. Some might believe we are judged only by our intentions and others would think only by our actions. I believe we should judge ourselves by our intentions, actions and deeds.

Does it ever seem like you feel like one person on the inside but you find yourself acting like someone else on the outside? Well, this is when we need to balance the two. Our deeds determine who we really are and we determine our deeds. We are responsible for our thoughts, our feelings, and especially, how we transform these into our actions.

Appreciate life as it is

Why is it that we are not happy with things? Are we just a miserable human that is looking for fault in others or are we looking for fault because we can? One thing that we should always keep in mind is that someone out there is in a worse off situation than what we are.

As long as we have shelter, food and clothes we should be satisfied. We live in a wonderful country with wonderful people. Yes we have a high crime rate but think of the countries like Zimbabwe or Iraq where the people suffer daily and do not have the privileges we have. Think of the people or children who cannot play soccer nor do something they dream of because they are blind or cannot walk because of a disability.

We are very fortunate and should show gratitude for this. God has given us everything we could ask for and more, all we need to do is open our eyes and we will see it.

3 words that describe me best

I can be compassionate, sensitive, yet very stubborn.

For things to change, I must change

Far too often we like to blame others for our actions. We like to complain and whine about everything and anything we are not satisfied with. We blame the government, , friends, the weather, even the animals just because things are not going our way.

We need to stop pointing fingers at others and start looking at ourselves. We need to look at things from a different perspective when we are not satisfied with something. How can we expect the world to change when we do not want to change? A good example is using South Africa. We all complain about the increase in its crime rate, but what we do not realise that we too are contributing to this statistic. How many of us purchase pirate copied DVD’s or CD’s? This is also a crime and we are aware of it, but yet we still do it.

So the next time you want to complain or whine about something that is not to your satisfaction. Rather ask yourself, ‘how can I contribute to make this better’ and start taking action.

We are afraid of the wrong things

The first thing we need to ask ourselves is; what is fear? Fear is seen as False Evidence Appearing Real. Far too often we fear for the things that matter the least to us. It is because of our ‘terror barrier’ that we fear these simple things.

Our terror barrier is a sense that allows us to fear for anything and sometimes everything. Why is it that sometimes we fear to do things that the next person enjoys? Everyone and anyone can enjoy many things if they just put their minds to it. Do you ever say to yourself that if I was not afraid of this I could actually get very far in life? Fear is all to often even related to our comfort zones. We are so comfortable with ourselves that we fear if we were to change life would not be as wonderful.

It is time we open our minds and realise that fear is not something real. The next time we are afraid of something we should ask ourselves why we are afraid. What is the worst thing that can happen to us? Is it worth being afraid of or if I overcome this fear will life be a fulfilment?

The day I was introduced to chocolate

The first time I felt the succulent taste of chocolate pressed between my lips I knew I fell in love. For as long as I can remember, my love for chocolate has never subsided. It has however, grown tremendously over the past years.

The taste of chocolate is like the pure feeling of absolute satisfaction. You get a warm fuzzy feeling like you are floating in the air and the pleasure of this taste is so overwhelming you cannot bear to let it go. Not only is the taste irresistible but the smell too. Chocolate always smells good. Chocolate can awaken a lust of things you never even knew you needed. When your fingers first grasp that bar of chocolate, and you lay it on the bed of your tongue and your taste buds dance from the satisfaction...oh the taste...mmmm.

Besides feeling a great sense of pleasure when eating it, chocolate enhances my mood. Whenever I feel sad or crappy, a bar of chocolate has always been my best friend. When I want to watch a sad movie I would place a box of tissues on the one side and chocolate on the other. Chocolate is the best thing that anyone could ever come across.

Sweets and chips may come and go, but chocolate I know, will always remain between my lips

Fish falling from the sky

If fish were falling from the sky then no one would be hungry.

Imagine you on your way home from a long day at campus. You are starving and a plate of lovely fish and chips would be mouth-watering right now. All you would need to do for Mommy to cook a lovely plate of fish and chips is to step outside and catch a fish falling from the sky.
If fish were falling from the sky hunger would never be a problem. Children would never have to suffer from deficiency diseases due to the lack of food. Every child and adult could and would have a meal every day.

The scarcity of food would never be a problem of concern. Government would never have to source other means for us to have food as fish is always falling from the sky.

Yes, the awful smell of fish might bother many of us and if fish was always on the menu then we will definitely get tired of eating it. But, if fish were falling from the sky then we could use this to our advantage and sell the fish to other parts of the country and use the money to help with other problems such as poverty.

So, if fish were falling from the sky we could solve many of the problems Cape Town is facing. This could even make SA a really rich country. I am sure this would even make SA one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Dream your dream

How often do we feel that our dreams and goals are just not going to become a reality? How often do we say I wish I had this or that? Well, I say enough wishing and start dreaming!

Each of us has a dream. A dream we want to pursue to make our life worth living for. Life is not something that will be around forever. The truth is that everyone's life is being hunted by death. Death will come but how do we want to go? Do we want to go with our dreams buried with us or do we want to pursue our dreams and live life the best we could.

Many people go the grave with their dreams buried with them. Do not be one of those people and reach for your dreams. Make your dream bullet proof and strive for it no matter what. People will stand in your way and try to steal your dream but do not allow this. Having the ability to dream is what keeps us human and what makes our life worth living for.

Pursing our dream can be seen like entering the jungle. We are on one side and on the other side of the jungle is our dream. While walking through the jungle, things will get in our way to try and stop us and make us go back. When we are half way through the jungle about to touch our dream, Murphy's law will come and just when we think nothing else can go wrong, this is when everything will go wrong. We should't allow for this to stop us. We should break through this barrier like a rhino.

Our dreams will determine how we lived our life and how plan to live our life. Life is short and a wonderful gift given to man. Dream and your dream will become a reality. Stand up for what you want and do not allow others to steal your dream. This is your life and no one can take this gift away from you.

What is the colour of the wind?

The wind blows in many directions and at different knots depending on the weather. Through this, we can associate a colour to the wind. We get hot wind, cool wind and freezing wind. The wind is like the emotions of human. Our emotions do not have a colour but depending on our mood we can associate a colour with it. For example, when we are angry we can say our emotions are red or black and when we are happy, our emotions are yellow or orange.

The same way wind is associated to a colour depending on its direction and force. When the wind is warm and humid we can say its colour is orange. Orange can be seen as a combination of red and yellow so it shares some common attributes with these colors. It denotes energy, warmth, and the sun, but also has a bit less intensity or aggression than red.

If the wind is calm and has a lovely breeze we can say its colour is blue. Blue gives a sense of calm, peace and freshness. We enjoy this lovely breeze especially if the day as been hot and tiring.

Thus, the wind does not have one specific colour but can be associated to many colours depending how you feel about the wind.

What are the shapes of clouds?

Clouds can usually be seen in the sky every day. They come in all shapes and sizes and bring with them all sorts of weather. Some clouds bring humidity others bring with them rain and thunderstorms.

Have you ever just sat and stare at the sky and wander what shapes the clouds are? Well, I have done that many a times. I enjoy staring at the clouds and seeing what shape, animal or object they representing. Clouds bring beauty to the sky.

Do you know what clouds are made of? Well I did not know this until just recently. A cloud is simply a visible mass of tiny water droplets that have formed because the air has become too cold at that height to store all its water as invisible vapour. Cool hey?

So next time you outside and there are clouds in the sky, why not try and see what shape the clouds are or what shape your mind can form...you will be surprised to see what all you can see in the clouds.

If I was the boss...

I would start my day 9h30. Cruise through traffic in my Aston Martin Vanquish. When I enter the office my secretary will greet me with a lovely cup of coffee and a muffin or a scone (everyday can not be the same). I will eat my breakfast while reading my emails on my apple mac.

Once I complete my breakfast, my working day will actually start. I would visit each department to ensure that they are satisfied with everything and any queries they have we can try and sort it out. They will know that they can always come to me with any problems. My main objective is to always ensure that my employees are satisfied. If I take care of them then they will take care of me.

They know just as much as I do that working for a publication is not an easy job. There are constant deadlines and ideas need to flow all the time. Working hours will be from 9h00 till 15h30. However, if all their deadlines are met before the day ends then they are most welcome to leave. The most productive is not the person who stays whole day and completes nothing, but rather the person who stays half day and completes everything.

We will have our own cafeteria and healthy and delicious dishes will be served. They will be able to eat anytime they want. Not everyone is hungry at 13h00. If a family emergency occurs, they are welcome to leave with my permission providing they have a valid reason.

Through percieving my dreams and with the help from my internal and external stakeholders, my company will make a name for itself internationally.

What to drink?

I was never a fan of drinking tap water. When I was at school and after playing “on-on” during our intervals we would all be thirsty and just need that one drop to quench our thirsts. My classmates and friends would run to the taps as the bell rang but no matter how thirsty I am I could never get myself to do that.

As time progressed I began to drink tap water but very seldom. When I heard about the time where maggots were found in our taps I completely stopped. That just put me off. Bottled water is all I drink.

Last year I received an email questioning just how safe is bottled water. Apparently, one should not use plastic bottles over and over. There is some sort of chemical that is released every time the bottle is used and this can cause cancer. The email also stated that these bottles remain for long periods in the heat (while being delivered, when in storage, etc) and this also allows the chemical to be released.

What also bothers me is whether or not this only applies to bottled water or to the juices, yoghurts and milkshakes that come in plastic bottles to. Just what to do we know about what we consume and the dangers therof?

So here I am, confused and bottled as to just what is the safest option when it comes to our health?

Two people came out of a building and into a story...

…filled with magic, inspiration and fulfilment.

After a stressful and upsetting day at work, all what Tracy, a 25year old, and Janette, a 26year old, wanted was to quit their jobs and feel how it is to live again.

As they were exiting their building through the revolving door, they saw they were in a new dimension. A world where everyone was equal and everything and anything was possible.

Tracy didn’t know what to expect and was afraid they could not return but Janette was excited and over the moon to think that a world like this exists. They continued through this new world and found little people and animals all living in peace and love. This was a world where no crimes were committed, money was never an issue, there was never any shortages of anything and everyone enjoyed what they did.
“If only our world was like this” said Janette. Tracy confused and scared replied, “Are you crazy! What if we never get out of here, what about our lives?!” Janette, irritated with Tracy complained, “What life do we have back there?! We were never happy with our jobs, all we wanted to do was quit for the past six months but because jobs are so scarce we cannot afford to quit. We barely can afford to pay our monthly rent, every so often petrol increases, there is a shortage of water and how often do we spoil ourselves? Please Tracy, let us just enjoy this new world where everything is perfect, we have nothing to lose.”

As they were passing through the town, an old man approached them and asked if they were passing through just like many others. They were confused and asked the man to please explain. He explained, “This is a perfect world, a world every human dreams of when they are kids. Where fairytales are possible and nothing can and will stand in your way. Many people from your world feel that life is getting to much, they become unhappy, unsatisfied, like they wish things could change or things to come to an end. When we sense such people we allow them to enter our world and feel that there is much more to life than just their work or that whatever is bothering them, can be solved and God will not give them a burden heavier that what they cannot bear. They come here to strengthen their spirit and once they feel satisfied, they go back to their world ready to live again and knowing that life is a gift and not a burden.”

After experiencing many inspirational and uplifting moments, Tracy and Janette returned to their world. They returned knowing that there is much more to life than a bad day at work and since this experience, they get up every day with a positive attitude that nothing is more important than living life to the fullest.

Does money make the world go round?

Despite the opinion of many, money doesn't make the world go around. It just helps it go around a little faster and a little more in style. Even though the way we worship money one would think it was part of our religion. We sacrifice our mind, our families, our sanity in search of the ‘Almighty Rand’ as if it had the power to bring to us the most important things we really want.

Sorry, guys. You can buy a lot of goodies with money, but you can't buy eternal life, inner peace or total security. You can have a few million in the bank and still feel totally poor, like those you read or see about who lived in miserable poverty all their lives, only to find out after they've died they were sleeping on a mattress filled with moola.

Money itself, of course, is not evil, but the love for money is the cause of all evil. What I really mean is that greed or the desire for money is the root of all evil. For many people, money is a necessary evil. They must earn money to fulfil their needs and responsibilities. Often, it is money that takes over people’s lives, they become obsessed with it and try to attain it by any means, fair or foul. What people love about money, of course, is the power that it gives us to enjoy physical pleasures.

In the end, it is not money but rather our greed for it that makes the world go round.

Designer PR?

Every business, just like every product, in the making is extremely competitive. Companies need to have something that makes them stand out from the crowd, something that makes them more appealing and interesting to both the public and the media.

Public relations practitioners (PRP) provide a service for the company by helping them give the public and the media a better understanding of how the company works.

PRP's also help the company to achieve its full potential. They provide feedback to the company from the public. This usually takes the form of research regarding what areas the public is most happy and unhappy with.

The public often think of PR as a glamorous job. PRP's seem to have been glued with the image of constant partying and networking to find new contacts. The reality is usually long hours and hard work for anyone involved in public relations

When PRP's manage, control or influence people's perceptions, they do it with the hope to initiate a pattern of behaviors that will lead to the achievement of the company's objectives. When PRP's successfully create, change or reinforce the opinions of others through persuasion, their primary objective is accomplished.

Is polygamy a feminist issue?

For many of you who are not familiar with the term polygamy; it is where one husband has more than one wife.

Polygamy has raised many issues amongst women. While it might be a religious or cultural issue to many e.g. in Islam or Zulu culture, feminist issues are being raised worldwide.

A lot of people think that polygamist men support their wives and children financially. In the Qur’an (Holy Book for Muslims), there is a verse that clearly allows for polygamy. However, one should not forget, that the verse following this contains strict restriction, “….and if you fear that you cannot do justice (to so many) then (marry) one only . . . .”. There are exceptions to every rule, there are a few wealthy polygamist men who have their homes where their women and children are not living in poverty. In Indonesia, laws are made to accommodate men who wish to marry multiple times, even if they lack the financial means to do so.

Polygamy is a lifestyle that depends on women to make it work. Many might see polygamy where women's basic civil rights and basic human rights are violated every day. In certain countries (where polygamy is practised) some women rights are respected and protected but how does their choices impact on women in general? Will every wife have a happy sex life? Will the wives live in harmony or will there be jealousy among them?

I feel that the question of polygamy is not an easy one to resolve, especially for feminists. Or at least for people (like myself) who believe at the same time that people should generally be free to make whatever romantic, sexual or matrimonial choices they want and that women should have just as much freedom, power and rights as men.