2024 Week 46 Update

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Today’s quote from author and artist Doe Zantamata highlights the toll that hesitation and fear can take on one’s life. When faced with major decisions or opportunities, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of “what ifs,” allowing fear to prevent us from taking meaningful steps forward. While seemingly protective, this hesitation can hold people back, causing years to slip by filled with missed experiences and unrealised potential. Zantamata’s message is ultimately about courage: leaping, even if uncertain, can lead to personal growth, discovery, and fulfilment—outcomes that indecision can never provide. By encouraging people to act, she highlights that it’s better to move forward with some uncertainty than to let the fear of failure or imperfection paralyse them. The quote reminds us that growth and change often require stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing a bit of the unknown to lead a fuller, richer life.

This week was all about me trying to manage my ankle pain. I finally caved in and saw a doctor who told me that it was most likely tendonitis. She gave me some medication and I have till tomorrow to decide if it has healed or not. If not, she will send me to have looked over by a specialist. As of this morning, it seems healed, but let me give it the rest of the day and I will make a call tomorrow morning.

GG has been very busy with exams, but the end is near. She has her last exam early next week and then is free for the next two months. She wanted to go for an internship, but because we are going to India later in the year, she decided to forego an internship this semester break. 

BB finished his driving course sometime last week and is back with his unit. We miss him during the week, as during this part of the course, he could come home each night. Now that he is back with his unit, we will only see him for 48 hours each week. But c’est la vie, and I am now counting down to next October when he will be done with his national service.

That’s all from me this week. Take care and stay positive!

In My Hands Today…

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Some People Need Killing: A Memoir of Murder in My Country – Patricia Evangelista

“My job is to go to places where people die. I pack my bags, talk to the survivors, write my stories, then go home to wait for the next catastrophe. I don’t wait very long.”

Journalist Patricia Evangelista came of age in the aftermath of a street revolution that forged a new future for the Philippines. Three decades later, in the face of mounting inequality, the nation discovered the fragility of its democratic institutions under the regime of strongman Rodrigo Duterte.

Some People Need Killing is Evangelista’s meticulously reported and deeply human chronicle of the Philippines’ drug war. For six years, Evangelista chronicled the killings carried out by police and vigilantes in the name of Duterte’s war on drugs—a war that has led to the slaughter of thousands—immersing herself in the world of killers and survivors and capturing the atmosphere of fear created when an elected president decides that some lives are worth less than others.

The book takes its title from a vigilante whose words seemed to reflect the psychological accommodation that most of the country had “I’m really not a bad guy,” he said. “I’m not all bad. Some people need killing.”

Festivals of India: Shree Kolayat Fair

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The Shree Kolayat Fair, also known as the Kapil Muni Fair, is one of Rajasthan’s most vibrant and culturally rich festivals. Held annually in the town of Kolayat, near Bikaner, this fair is a significant religious and social event that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists. The fair is dedicated to Kapil Muni, a revered sage in Hindu mythology, and is marked by a series of rituals, cultural performances, and communal activities. 

The origins of the Shree Kolayat Fair are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and the ancient history of Rajasthan. The town of Kolayat is believed to be where Kapil Muni, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, meditated and attained enlightenment. According to legend, Kapil Muni was a great sage and philosopher who composed the “Sankhya Darshan,” one of the six classical systems of Indian philosophy.

Kolayat is home to the Kapil Muni Temple, which stands by the side of a large lake known as Kolayat Lake. The lake is considered sacred, and its waters are believed to have purifying properties. The Shree Kolayat Fair is held in honour of Kapil Muni and is a time for devotees to pay homage to the sage, seek blessings, and take part in various religious and cultural activities.

The Shree Kolayat Fair is steeped in mythology and legends that add to its spiritual significance. One of the central myths associated with the fair revolves around Kapil Muni’s penance and the sanctity of Kolayat Lake. Kapil Muni is regarded as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is credited with the authorship of the Sankhya philosophy, which emphasises the dualism of matter and spirit. According to legend, Kapil Muni chose Kolayat as his place of meditation due to its serene and tranquil environment. It is said that his intense penance and meditation at Kolayat Lake sanctified the waters, making them capable of absolving sins and granting spiritual purification. Another legend tells of a time when the sage’s meditation was disturbed by a group of celestial beings. In his anger, Kapil Muni cursed them, but later, out of compassion, he granted them the boon that anyone who bathed in the lake during the fair would be absolved of their sins. This belief continues to draw thousands of devotees to Kolayat Lake each year.

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Another significant myth associated with Kapil Muni and Kolayat Lake involves King Sagara and his sons. According to the legend, King Sagara performed the Ashwamedha Yagna (a horse sacrifice ritual) to assert his supremacy. Indra, the king of gods, became jealous and stole the sacrificial horse, hiding it in the hermitage of Kapil Muni. King Sagara’s 60,000 sons searched for the horse and eventually found it at Kapil Muni’s hermitage. Mistaking the sage for the thief, they disturbed his meditation. In his anger, Kapil Muni reduced them to ashes with his fiery gaze. The king’s descendants later performed penance to appease the sage and were instructed to bathe in Kolayat Lake to purify their souls and attain salvation.

The Shree Kolayat Fair blends religious rituals, cultural performances, and communal activities. The fair typically takes place in the month of Kartik, around October-November according to the Gregorian calendar and culminates on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of Kartik. 

One of the most important rituals of the Shree Kolayat Fair is the holy dip in Kolayat Lake. Devotees believe that bathing in the lake during the fair absolves them of their sins and grants spiritual purification. The lake is surrounded by 52 ghats or bathing steps, and each ghat has its significance. On Kartik Purnima, one sees the highest number of devotees taking the holy dip, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere.

Another significant ritual is the offering of diyas or earthen lamps to the lake. Devotees light diyas and set them afloat on the waters of Kolayat Lake as an offering to Kapil Muni. The sight of thousands of diyas floating on the lake creates a mesmerising and serene ambiance, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

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The Kapil Muni Temple, located on the banks of Kolayat Lake, is the focal point of the fair. Devotees visit the temple to offer prayers, seek blessings, and perform rituals to honour Kapil Muni. The temple is beautifully decorated during the fair, and special pujas or worship ceremonies are conducted by the priests.

The Shree Kolayat Fair is also known for its cattle trading activities. Farmers and traders from various parts of Rajasthan and neighbouring states bring their livestock to the fair for trading. The cattle market is a bustling hub of activity, with a wide variety of livestock, including cows, camels, goats, and horses, being bought and sold. The trading of livestock is an essential aspect of the fair, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the region.

The fair is a celebration of Rajasthani culture and heritage, with a variety of cultural performances taking place throughout the event. Folk music and dance performances, puppet shows, and traditional Rajasthani plays are some of the highlights. These performances provide entertainment for the visitors and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of Rajasthan.

Community feasts are an integral part of the Shree Kolayat Fair. Devotees and visitors come together to share meals, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. The feasts typically include traditional Rajasthani dishes, and the food is often prepared and served by volunteers.

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The fair attracts pilgrims from various parts of India, and many of them undertake long journeys to reach Kolayat. Pilgrims often travel in groups, singing devotional songs and carrying flags and banners. Processions are a common sight during the fair, with devotees carrying idols of Kapil Muni and other deities through the streets.

Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, holds special significance in Hinduism and is considered an auspicious day for various religious activities. The Shree Kolayat Fair culminates on this day, and it is believed that the spiritual benefits of participating in the fair are magnified on Kartik Purnima.

Kartik Purnima is associated with several important Hindu deities and events. It is believed to be the day when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Matsya, his fish avatar to save the Vedas from the demon Hayagriva. It is also considered the day when Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura, leading to the celebration of Tripuri Purnima.

In the context of the Shree Kolayat Fair, Kartik Purnima is the day when the blessings of Kapil Muni are most potent. Devotees believe that performing rituals and taking a holy dip in Kolayat Lake on this day can lead to the absolution of sins and the attainment of spiritual merit.

The rituals on Kartik Purnima at the Shree Kolayat Fair are elaborate and deeply symbolic. Devotees wake up early in the morning and take a holy dip in the lake at sunrise. They then visit the Kapil Muni Temple to offer prayers and seek blessings. Special pujas and havans or rituals with the holy fire are conducted by the priests, and devotees participate in these ceremonies with great devotion. In the evening, the lake is illuminated with thousands of diyas, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Devotees offer the diyas to the lake, and the sight of the floating lamps is a symbol of hope, faith, and spiritual enlightenment.

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The Shree Kolayat Fair is not just a religious event; it is a significant cultural and social gathering that has a profound impact on the local community and the region as a whole. The fair provides a substantial economic boost to the town of Kolayat and the surrounding areas. The influx of pilgrims and tourists leads to increased business for local vendors, artisans, and traders. The cattle market, in particular, is a major economic activity, with significant transactions taking place during the fair. The cultural performances and activities at the fair play a crucial role in promoting and preserving Rajasthani culture. Folk music, dance, and traditional arts are showcased, providing a platform for local artists and performers. The fair also attracts cultural enthusiasts and researchers who are interested in studying and documenting the rich heritage of Rajasthan.

The Shree Kolayat Fair fosters social cohesion and community spirit. It brings together people from different backgrounds and regions, creating an environment of unity and harmony. The communal activities, such as feasts and processions, encourage social interaction and strengthen bonds within the community. While the Shree Kolayat Fair continues to be a vibrant and significant event, it faces several challenges in the modern era. Efforts are being made to address these challenges and ensure the preservation of the fair’s cultural and religious significance. The large number of visitors to the fair can lead to environmental issues, such as pollution and waste management challenges. Efforts are being made to promote eco-friendly practices, such as the use of biodegradable materials and proper waste disposal systems. 

Awareness campaigns are also conducted to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the natural environment of Kolayat Lake. With the influence of modernisation and changing lifestyles, there is a risk of losing traditional practices and rituals associated with the fair. Cultural preservation initiatives, such as documentation and promotion of traditional arts, are being undertaken to ensure that the heritage of the Shree Kolayat Fair is passed down to future generations. To accommodate the growing number of visitors, there is a need for improved infrastructure and facilities. This includes better transportation, accommodation, sanitation, and medical services. The local government and community organisations are working together to enhance the infrastructure while maintaining the cultural integrity of the fair.

The Shree Kolayat Fair is a celebration of faith, culture, and community that holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Rajasthan. It is a time when devotees come together to honor Kapil Muni, seek spiritual purification, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region. The fair’s vibrant rituals, cultural performances, and communal activities create an atmosphere of joy and devotion, making it a unique and memorable experience for all who attend. As the fair continues to evolve and adapt to modern challenges, it remains a testament to the enduring traditions and values of the Garo people. The Shree Kolayat Fair is not just a festival; it is a living tradition that connects the past with the present and offers a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural richness of Rajasthan.

In My Hands Today…

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The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward – Daniel H. Pink

Everybody has regrets, Daniel H. Pink explains in The Power of Regret. They’re a universal and healthy part of being human. And understanding how regret works can help us make smarter decisions, perform better at work and school, and bring greater meaning to our lives.

Drawing on research in social psychology, neuroscience, and biology, Pink debunks the myth of the “no regrets” philosophy of life. And using the largest sampling of American attitudes about regret ever conducted as well as his own World Regret Survey–which has collected regrets from more than 15,000 people in 105 countries–he lays out the four core regrets that each of us has. These deep regrets offer compelling insights into how we live and how we can find a better path forward.

As he did in his bestsellers Drive, When, and A Whole New Mind, Pink lays out a dynamic new way of thinking about regret and frames his ideas in ways that are clear, accessible, and pragmatic. Packed with true stories of people’s regrets as well as practical takeaways for reimagining regret as a positive force, The Power of Regret shows how we can live richer, more engaged lives.

World Diabetes Day

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World Diabetes Day is an annual global health awareness campaign observed on November 14th. The day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the rapidly increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide. The date, November 14th, was chosen to honour the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea that led to the discovery of insulin in 1922.

The day gained official recognition as a United Nations Day in 2006 with a resolution that acknowledged diabetes as a chronic, debilitating, and costly disease associated with severe complications that pose a significant threat to families, countries, and the entire world. Since its inception, World Diabetes Day has grown into a global campaign reaching millions of people in over 160 countries. It serves as a platform for diabetes awareness and advocacy, uniting the global diabetes community in a collective effort to address the growing diabetes epidemic.

World Diabetes Day plays a crucial role in raising awareness by helping educate the public about diabetes, its risk factors, symptoms, and complications; by encouraging people to get tested, it supports early detection and intervention; the day advocates for better care and pushes for improved access to quality diabetes care and treatment options; it highlights the importance of ongoing research in diabetes prevention and management; and fosters community support by bringing together individuals, healthcare professionals, and organisations to support those affected by diabetes.

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The theme for World Diabetes Day from 2024 to 2026 will be ‘Diabetes and Well-being’. This theme will focus on three key aspects between 2024 and 2026 – physical well-being, societal well-being, and mental well-being. The choice of this theme reflects a holistic approach to diabetes management, recognising that diabetes affects not only physical health but also mental and social well-being. By addressing these interconnected aspects, the campaign aims to improve the overall quality of life for people living with diabetes.

To fully appreciate the importance of World Diabetes Day, it’s crucial to understand the nature of diabetes and its impact on global health. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t produce insulin. It’s not preventable and requires daily insulin administration. Type 2 diabetes results from the body’s ineffective use of insulin. It’s often associated with physical inactivity and excess body weight, and in many cases, it’s preventable.

Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, slow-healing wounds, recurring skin infections, and numbness or tingling in hands and feet. It’s important to note that symptoms can be less pronounced in Type 2 diabetes, and diagnosis may occur years after onset.

The IDF Diabetes Atlas provides alarming statistics on the global diabetes scenario. In 2021, 537 million adults or 1 in 10 were living with diabetes. This number is expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. Almost half of adults with diabetes or 44% remain undiagnosed, primarily with type 2 diabetes. Over three-quarters of people with diabetes live in low and middle-income countries. 541 million adults are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Over 1.2 million children and adolescents between the ages of 0 and 19 years live with type 1 diabetes.

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Diabetes imposes a substantial economic burden globally. In 2021, diabetes accounted for at least $966 billion in health expenditure, constituting 9% of the global total spent on healthcare. High blood glucose or hyperglycemia during pregnancy affects one in six live births or about 21 million.

World Diabetes Day serves as a catalyst for various activities and initiatives aimed at raising awareness and promoting better diabetes care. The official colour of diabetes awareness is blue. Wearing blue clothing or accessories on November 14th shows support for the cause. One can use social media and other platforms to educate others about diabetes, its risk factors, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Another way is to encourage those at risk to get tested for diabetes, supporting early detection and intervention. One can host or participate in events, workshops, or seminars that raise awareness about diabetes in local communities. The IDF provides an interactive tool for individuals to assess their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in diabetes management and prevention. World Diabetes Day highlights their importance and provides resources to support their work. The day often features educational sessions for healthcare providers to stay updated on the latest diabetes care practices. It encourages healthcare professionals to engage more effectively with patients, promoting better diabetes management. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to advocate for better diabetes care policies and resources. The day highlights opportunities for healthcare professionals to participate in diabetes research.

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World Diabetes Day emphasises the importance of diabetes prevention and effective management. Key strategies include promoting balanced diets, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight; encouraging regular check-ups and diabetes screenings, especially for those at higher risk; stressing the importance of following prescribed treatment plans for those diagnosed with diabetes; providing resources and support for people with diabetes to effectively manage their condition; and highlighting new technologies and treatments that can improve diabetes management.

World Diabetes Day fosters global collaboration in the fight against diabetes. This includes international partnerships which encourage cooperation between countries and organisations to address diabetes on a global scale; knowledge sharing and the facilitating the exchange of best practices and research findings across borders; advocating for equitable distribution of diabetes care resources, especially in low and middle-income countries; and promoting consistent policies and guidelines for diabetes prevention and management worldwide.

While World Diabetes Day has made significant strides in raising awareness and improving diabetes care, several challenges remain. These include ensuring equitable access to quality diabetes care, especially in resource-limited settings; combating social stigma associated with diabetes and promoting inclusivity; addressing the gap in access to diabetes management technologies between high and low-income countries; managing the increasing prevalence of diabetes alongside other chronic conditions; and developing strategies to engage younger generations in diabetes prevention and awareness.

World Diabetes Day stands as a beacon of hope and action in the global fight against diabetes. Today, the focus is shifting towards a more holistic approach to diabetes care, encompassing physical, societal, and mental well-being. The day serves not only as a reminder of the challenges posed by diabetes but also as a celebration of the progress made in diabetes care and management. It unites millions of people worldwide in a common cause, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

World Diabetes Day remains a crucial platform for raising awareness, promoting prevention, and advocating for better care. It reminds us that while diabetes is a serious condition, it is manageable with the right knowledge, support, and resources.