How To Protect What You Create With A Copyright

In the United States there are millions of people every year who create original music, research, or write books and other forms of creative expression. These are covered by the term intellectual property and are given protection under copyright laws. If you are a publisher, writer, or editor it is crucial that you are knowledgeable about copyright issues more than ever. With the Internet there has been an enormous increase in counterfeiting and pirating of books, music, and other intellectual property. A report last year from the World Customs Organization indicated over a half a billion dollars in counterfeit and pirated products were put in the marketplace globally in 2005.

Every business in the United States is susceptible to Intellectual Property theft; small businesses are at an even greater risk. Individual writers and owners of small publications offer a large cache of information for intellectual property thieves to grab, and as I pointed out above, the Internet has made it very easy to do. To guard against this happening to you or your company you need to know what your rights are.

A copyright under U.S. law protects authors of "original works of authorship" fixed in any material medium of expression. This can encompass sounds, notes, words, numbers, pictures, and virtually any other media. Works that are covered under copyright law are diverse and include artistic, architectural, literary, dramatic, audiovisual, and musical. A work does not have to be published to be covered.

According to the copyright law passed in 1976, the owner of a copyright has the exclusive right to distribute, reproduce, perform, and display their work. The rights are transferable by the owner who may license them, sell them, donate them to charity or even leave them to their heirs. According to the law, it is not legal to violate any of these rights, and if the owner of a copyright wins in a claim for copyright infringement, the court may order both preliminary and permanent injunctions barring any and all present and future infringements and may also order the surrender of the offending materials.

Many people think that there is some big process they have to go through in order to obtain a copyright. The fact of the matter is your work is protected by Copyright Law when you create it and it is placed as a copy or recorded the first time. An article you write is protected, as is a song or music whether it is in sheet music, on a CD, or both forms of media. Despite this fact it is still recommended that you register formally with the Copyright Office to establish a public record and give yourself concrete legal protection for any suits filed in court.

A copyright gives you protection for 70 years after your death or if you created the work with another it lasts 70 years after the last surviving author's death. As far as anonymous works and works that were made for hire, the time is extended to as long as 120 years from the date of creation.

Unfortunately there are no international copyrights to guarantee you copyright protection globally, but most countries recognize the Berne Convention on the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works and/or the Universal Copyright Convention. These are the top international copyright agreements for providing foreign authors with copyright protection. If you are in doubt about whether or not a work you have is protected, be sure to consult with a qualified copyright attorney. That is the only way to be absolutely sure you have all the bases covered.

The Difference Between Trade Secrets And Trademarks

Some people get confused between trade secrets and trademarks. A trademark is something that is publicly recognized and known as being officially associated with a particular company. In contrast a trade secret can be a much more broad definition and by its very name is not made public.

According to the laws in most states, any device, pattern, formula, idea, or collection of information that gives the owner an advantage in the marketplace and is protected by the owner in a way that shows that it can be reasonably expected to keep their competitors or the public from finding out about it without stealing it is considered a trade secret.

There are many examples I can give of trade secrets. In an actual product, a trade secret could be the way certain ingredients are combined in the formulation of a nutritional supplement. Recipes, in particular those employed at commercial restaurants, are considered to be trade secrets.

One very famous one that I can think of right off is Colonel Sander's recipe for his Kentucky Fried Chicken. An idea for an invention that one has that they have not filed for a patent on yet would also be considered a trade secret, as are the complex algorithms that search engines like Google use to give us search results online.

Trade secrets are the opposite of other types of protecting of intellectual property such as trademarks and patents. The whole idea of a trade secret is to keep it from public knowledge and it is basically something that a person or company does themselves. Your trade secret will be given protection under law until you make the information public.

Companies and individuals protect information that they are unable to guard with other legal means such as patents and trademarks. There are numerous things that can be considered trade secrets. An idea that will give you a big jump over your competition in a particular market or even an idea for a piece of software or a website would also be a trade secret. Business information that you keep secret and only allow access to by employees such as marketing plans, costs, and pricing would be protected under law.

According to the law, the owner of a trade secret can legally prevent employees from using trade secret information or disclosing it by binding them with confidentiality or non-disclosure agreements. They also have legal protection from people who get the information by stealing it or through industrial espionage as well as people who get the information knowing that it is a protected trade secret.

The best way for a company to protect itself legally is to have employees sign a non-disclosure agreement, also known as an NDA. You should also have them signed by anyone that you do business with such as lenders and investors. An intellectual property attorney can help you with drafting this important document.

How to Invite Happiness Back Into Your Life

"All my life I've wanted to be somebody, but I see now I should've been more specific."

I just love this quote by Jane Wagner, as it describes how most of my clients feel when they first come to me for help. They know something isn’t working in their life, and they’re fairly certain that they’re not happy, but they haven’t figured out how to invite the state of happiness back into their life. Frankly, they’re still trying to figure out who that ‘somebody’ is in the big picture. When I ask them “What does that ‘somebody’ look like to you?”, I usually get a blank stare back until they get their “Aha!” moment and are able to answer me. I also refer to this as one of those “Wake up, Alice – this ain’t Wonderland” moments” in my coaching practice.

I remember when I first started coaching, I just wanted to help women be successful. Right! That was about as clear as mud. It's no wonder it took me so long to get where I was going. And yes, I would whine because I didn't get what I wanted. Imagine that. Thank goodness, I personally have had excellent coaches and mentors who taught me that if you want to get somewhere in your life, you're going to have to get a lot more specific if you want to get there. You're going to have to start asking different questions than the ones you've been asking.
Here's an exercise for you to do that will help you get specific about what you want and invite the state of being happy back into heart and life!

1. OK, what does ‘happy’ look like to you?
This is my favorite question as it really makes you think about what you want. Are you looking for more ME time, more money, more fun, more business etc.? Make a short list of what your desires are to help you get more focused.

2. Is it in keeping with my Core Values?
If you are living in a state where you’re constantly going against your beliefs, then it’s no wonder you’re not happy! Your Core Values are what makes you unique – what set’s you apart from everyone else. If you deliberately do things that are in direct disharmony from your values, you will never achieve true happiness.

3. What actions would I have to take to get there?
Well, depending on where ‘there’ is, the actions will be different. One thing I do know for certain is that without ANY action on your behalf, you will NEVER get anywhere! Change always involves action – you need to physically and mentally make an effort to change your behaviors in order to invite new habits into your life.

4. What kind of support would I need and from whom?
The biggest support you need in order to change is that which you get from yourself! If you are not your own biggest fan, then learn to build up your levels of self-confidence and self-esteem first. Do only those things that make you feel good inside and encourage you to aspire to do even more. Take that course to learn to speak Italian! Go enroll in piano or guitar lessons! Sign up for that Yoga class! It always helps if you can get support from your friends and family, but if that isn’t happening, consider getting a personal coach to get you to that next level.

5. How would I feel when I got there? Wherever ‘there’ is!
If you imagine NOW how you’ll feel when you get wherever ‘there’ is, you’re more likely to succeed. This is based on the Law of Attraction and it is a very obedient law. It always matches whatever vibrations you send, both negative and positive, so try envisioning being happy and content in wherever ‘there’ may be for you long before your arrive at that place.

6. How committed am I to getting there?
Are you only doing a little bit or are you willing to do whatever it takes to get you to that happy place? If you approach making the necessary changes in your life in a lackadaisical way, not caring if you really succeed, you might as well not waste your time and effort. You need to put 100% of your time, thought and energy into getting to where you want to go. 50% effort will only get you 50% positive results, and who wants to settle for only half a cookie when you can have the whole thing? You have to be willing to do the work – period. As the old saying goes, ‘Put your money where your mouth is!”


Are you starting to get the picture? The road is not as hard or as long when you know where you are going and you get really specific about your journey.

Try working these six steps for a month and see what happens. I’m sure you’re going to be very surprised at how you’ll feel. Everyone deserves to be happy so take time today to start inviting joy back into your life.

Focus on the Positives, Not the Negatives and Achieve Success

I believe that the Number 1 saboteur next to People Pleasing is Stinking Thinking!

Have you ever observed the stuff you say to yourself all day long? Do you realize how much of it is negative and defeating? If you are going to be up to big things in your life, then you are going to have to change your thinking and your talking. I know you’ve heard that attitude determines altitude. Well, in my world the Law of Attraction Rules. I have seen it work in my life and in my client’s life over and over again. It is the foundation for attracting more of what you do want and less of what you don’t want in your life.

The Law of Attraction says that you attract to your life whatever you give your attention, energy, and focus to, whether positive or negative. So simply put, if you focus on positive and good things (thoughts) in your life, you will attract more of what you do want in your life. If you focus on not enough and negative things, (thoughts) in your life, you will attract more of what you don’t want in your life.

In Michael Losier’s book, “Law of Attraction Book: The Science of Attracting More of What You Want and Less of What You Don’t”, he states: “When you make a statement containing the words don’t, not or no, you are actually giving attention and energy to what you don’t want. Simply ask yourself “So what do I want?”

Here are some examples of how this negativity shows up in your life. You might say things like:

I don’t want my clients to cancel.
I don’t want to be late.
I don’t want to have that conversation.
I don’t have enough money.
I don’t want to say NO.
I don’t want to be a whiner.

All these thoughts contain the word ‘not’ and are negative, and each time you say or think them, you end up attracting more negativity into your life.

Here are 4 things to keep in mind.

1. This thinking is not terminal.
2. You do have a choice.
3. You can change this.
4. You can take back your power.

Here are 2 action exercises to practice this week:

1. Every time a negative thought comes into your head, just say Cancel and replace with positive thought.
2. Every time you say, “I don’t want...”, replace it with “So, what do I want?”

Also remember to keep ‘an attitude of gratitude’ going because nothing will attract more positive things into your life than this one simple action. By being grateful and acknowledging the things or people that are making your life truly wonderful, you have a sure fire method to make sure that you KEEP your life heading in that direction.

If you want to learn more strategies for taking back your power and attracting more of what you do want in your life, get a copy of my People Please No More System (see below) for more information. It has everything you’ll ever need to have more productivity, more profit, and more power in your life right now.

Get your copy today. You’ll definitely be grateful after reading it.

The Fit and Fabolous SOB

Prevention is the key to anything. So start taking care of yourself—whatever
that means to you.

There are guidelines to everything. Information for mammograms, colonoscopies,
standard blood tests, calorie amounts, and types of exercise are so numerous,
I don’t need to go over them here. What I do need to do is highlight the fact
that you must practice utilizing what’s out there so you can lead a FIT AND
FABULOUS life.

Unfortunately, no one can motivate you but yourself. It’s up to you to
surround yourself with the items and people who will help you pursue the
kinds of things that produce fitness and wellness.
Let’s talk about image first. Fortunately or unfortunately, people form an
impression of you the first 30 seconds they meet you. You can spend the rest
of your life trying to change it or just make the right one immediately. When
you are fit, your clothes look good on you, you carry yourself with style and
panache, and people are attracted to you. It doesn’t matter if you’re a size
4 or 16—it matters what you think of yourself.

It’s awful than 3500 calories equals one pound. It’s not fair that although it
takes forever to lose the one pound, just by looking at that piece of
chocolate, you gain it right back. We know that isn’t really true even though
it seems like it. Basically this means that if you want to lose weight you
have to eliminate 3500 calories a week from your diet to lose one pound and
if you want to gain weight, eat an additional 3500 calories in that same week

Although certain foods are burned up faster than others, you need to find out
what works for you. You may even need to get a personal trainer or
nutritionist to help you.

With exercise, you lose inches, not pounds. Your metabolism will increase and
circulation improve. It doesn’t matter what you do as long as you do
something. Choose what you enjoy, not what you hate. You know your body the
best.

The three key points to being fit and fabulous are:
Mental—this has to do with assertiveness and attitude Physical—this has to do
with diet and exercise Spiritual—this has to do with image, appearance and
conduct.

You may not list them in that order and think they have all those components,
but believe me, they are all part of it. No matter what you do, unpleasant
experiences come into your life. How and what you do daily allows you to cope
with the disasters and enjoy the highs.

Nuclear Power becomes Popular Again

Construction of nuclear power plants declined following the 1986 disaster at Chernobyl. Lately, there has been renewed interest in nuclear energy from national governments, the public, and some notable environmentalists due to increased oil prices, new passively safe designs of plants, and the low emission rate of greenhouse gas which some governments need to meet the standards of the Kyoto Protocol. A few reactors are under construction, and several new types of reactors are planned.

As of 2006 there are 442 licensed nuclear power reactors in operation in the world, operating in 31 different countries. Nuclear power plants currently provide about 17 percent of the world's electricity, yet how much of the world's current and future environmental problems does Nuclear Power contribute to? Nuclear power has both powerful enemies and friends but does the bottom line come down to costs? The December 2005 World Nuclear Association report The New Economics of Nuclear Power states that "Nuclear power is cost competitive with other forms of electricity generation, except where there is direct access to low-cost fossil fuels". The need for cheap energy can not be argued when every week price increases are announced from all the gas and electricity suppliers in the UK. The Ukraine recently had their gas supply stopped by Russia, how long is it before this happens to the UK? Do we not need to be self-sufficient when it comes to the generation of power? Can renewable energy not begin to take a larger role in this supply? See GuideMeGreens green directory for renewable energy companies and recycled products in the UK.

The report goes on to say that fuel costs for nuclear plants are a minor proportion of total generating costs, though capital costs are greater than those for coal-fired plants. At the NIA 2006 launch of the Commission's position paper on the role of nuclear it confirmed "that nuclear is a low carbon technology with an impressive safety record in the UK" and "Nuclear could generate large quantities of electricity, contribute to stabilizing CO2 emissions and add to the diversity of the UK's energy supply." While we have an impressive record of safety in the UK, Chernobyl has proved that a nuclear accident thousands of miles away can effect the UK for decades to come. The Tsunami also caused problems at Nuclear Power plants around Asia as the plants are built near the sea due to the large amount of water needed to cool the rectors. Greenpeace has always fought vigorously against nuclear power because they believe that it is an unacceptable risk to the environment and to humanity and that the only solution is to halt the expansion of all nuclear power, and for the shutdown of existing plants.

Can Green Taxes save the Environment?

They are intended to change our behavior and the way that we live, to make us less wasteful and conserve scarce resources for generations to come. We are consuming the planets resources at an unsustainable rate and this article will look at 3 of the proposed taxes to see if it will change anything.

Green Tax No 1. To try and persuade us to drive less, the government has increased petrol prices by 1.5 pence per litre. Not much you might say, but it makes our petrol even more expensive and we already pay one of the highest rates in Europe. It will now cost you up to 50 pence more when you go to the petrol station to fill your tank up, will this make you drive less? I think not, therefore is this a green tax or just a plain and simple money making tax. Every extra penny per litre adds millions of pounds to the governments income per year.

Green Tax No 2. Air passenger duty is due to rise from £5 to £10. Even on short haul flights this is not going to make much difference. Are you not going to go on holiday or visit friends by air because it costs you an extra fiver more- again I think not! This extra £5 will raise millions of pounds for the government in revenue.

Green Tax No 3. Ken Livingston the London Mayor wants to charge 4x4 gas guzzling residents of London much higher parking and congestion charge fees. They may be angered by the tax, but they may just pay-up. Especially as London now has more million and billionaires then almost anywhere else on the plant. I agree that this is a step in the right direction proving the amounts are high enough to make people think twice about buying one. I have friends that have 4x4 as they want more room for their partner and one child. Get real!

With all these green taxes being introduced I find it difficult to believe that the government allows for the rail fares to be increased above inflation pushing more people into using cars. I have been on those expensive, crammed, rush hour trains and its not nice I can tell.

When the tax payer has some real options to help reduce carbon emissions, then a taxation regime to deal with unnecessary pollution appears more justified, at the moment it seems like raising money is the main objective and not cutting the effects of climate change.

Do your bit for the environment by buying organic food from the authors website and learn to lead a greener lifestyle by learning from these Eco Articles.

Alternative Energy Solutions in a Time of Power Changes

around the world many of us agree on one thing: it is very likely that there will be an energy change in the future. We all know energy is a big issue in the contemporary world, and we have been convinced
that humanity is at a crucial crossroads in its history because we face an energy shortage. Many
experts believe this problem can only be solved by the use of alternative energy solutions.

By energy, I mean the fuel that drive our cars, give us electricity and enables us to enjoy
modern amenities we feel so vulnerable without. Fossil fuels have been the prime source of energy
for human society since the beginning of the industrial revolution. These fossil fuels have
been the muscles, which have enabled us to progress and develop to such dizzying heights. We
face a problem in the 21st century because our stocks and reserves of these fossil fuels are
running low; this news is worsened by the fact that these reserves cannot be renewed. Many
governments and private agencies have started promoting Alternative Energy Solutions to
overcome the looming energy crisis caused by the depletion of the non renewal's sources of energy
that all fossil fuels - coal, all oil and natural gas - represent.

Alternative Energy Solutions include all prime movers that can use a renewable natural resource to produce energy. This may be wind, thermal energy from the earth, and wave action in the shores and solar energy from the sun. Alternative energy resources can also include new technology like fuel cells. However the primary fuel
humanity has long depended on has been oil. We now know from our own projections that the oil
reserves in the world are slated to be nonviable by 2050. Simply put, the world is running out of gas! In addition, not to mention, time.

The utilization of other forms of energy is therefore very important. When we speak of alternative energy, it usually means the production of electricity via the use of some natural and renewable resource. What are these renewable, one may ask. Someone else may extend this line of questioning and say: Are these
renewable resources as efficient as the fossil fuels? Below are some answers.

Wind energy is the word that comes to mind whenever people talk of renewable energy sources.
Humans have harnessed the wind to drive machines since medieval times. In the 21st century we use
wind turbines to produce electricity. As a source of power, wind is an excellent option. Wind
turbines generate electricity by rotary motion that is caused by the airflow.

Some of the negatives associated with wind energy and wind turbines lie in the unpredictability of
wind. For example, no wind means the turbine does not rotate and electricity is not generated.
Sites are another problem; rows and rows of wind turbines are just not feasible in a city of a few
million people. The most important issue however lies in cost effectiveness, most power companies
are still reluctant to invest in or buy their power from companies that use wind turbines. This
is changing as governments around the world have started subsidizing power generation through
alternative sources like wind.

There are other possible sources of renewable energy; tidal energy uses the energy of the ocean
and is an effective though rather geographically limited source of power, thermal energy from the
earth taps geysers and other underground sources of heat. This is a very important source of
energy in places like Iceland - it is also geographically limited in its suitability.
Nuclear energy can be considered a potentially inexhaustible source of power. However, it could
have many dangerous complications and most environmentalists fear its use.

New technological innovations like fuel cells are still a long way off from truly becoming
substitutes to the fossil fuel powered internal combustion engines that have driven us all this
far down the road. Indeed looking at all the possible sources of alternate energy and
especially renewable, wind and hydroelectric projects are the only two viable long term
sources, solar power is a potentially huge alternative source of energy but it has a
technological handicap-we do not posses the engineering expertise to make better solar cells.
Solar cells are also very costly to produce and are not cost effective - even less so than wind.

Given all the setbacks we currently are unable to overcome, it will still be some time yet before
we can throw away the polluting but efficient, fossil fuel guzzling machines that we so fondly
know as cars. The use of alternative energy sources is a very important area of research and
demands humanity's attention.

As soon as fuel supplies run out on us, we may have to go back to that ultimate transport
machine to take us places: our legs.

The Challenge to make our environment a safe place

In the context of the world Environment Day think tank activities, is proposing this paper. The university of Mauritius, the Mauritius Institute of Education, Mauritius College of the Air, Mauritius Examination Syndicate and Mahatma Gandhi Institute are the brain centers of our island. The staff and the students of such institution can set up projects that will develop the formation of a green society. This will trigger the Carbon Control Challenge to make our environment a safe place.

It is noticeable that there are many cars that are utilized by the staff so as to travel to and from work. Most of these cars run on fuel, which produce hydrocarbon and other gases including carbon dioxide. In case owners of such cars switch to the utilization of gas and bio-fuel, the reduction, the reduction of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will be a starting point. The light and the lighting system can be changed to the utilization of low energy bulbs thereby reducing the amount of electricity. A further cut in the electricity consumption can be achieved by switching off all stand-by electrical equipments during idle time, for example, photocopiers, computer screens, and printers. Further reduction in the consumption of electricity can be achieved by wearing approximate clothing and thereby switching off the air conditioner equipment once the cooling temperature has been attained. Proper insulation of the rooms will prevent the cool air from escaping from the rooms.

In case we can inculcate these habits in the first instance then we would have laid the foundation of green society. Other habits that will prevent the release of large quantities of carbon dioxide can be promoted. It has been often quoted that when actions are initiated within the Réduit and Moka campuses, then the multiplying effect is experienced throughout the island. Some suggestion to reduce carbon dioxide emission ‘is a low carbon dependent citizen rather than a high carbon dependent citizen’. Use a bicycle or simply walk whenever you have to reach a very short distance. You can avoid using your car at least once a week. Can you share your travel with others? Can you setup a green travel club? In case the weather is mild, then open your windows and let fresh air circulate within your house and office. Turn off the air conditioner and cooler. Grow palms and other seedlings. Use energy efficient light bulbs and lighting devices. Reduce your heater by at least 3 degrees during the winter months. Increase the thermostat by 5 degrees once you have cooled your room.

Insulate your room properly in order to avoid any loss of energy. Use solar powered lights in your garden and driveway. Design your house and office in order to allow the maximum light. Switch off any electrical appliances and equipment which otherwise are left on stand-by-mode. Switch off photocopiers, printers, and computers when not in use. Organize your printing and photocopying jobs at a particular time. Send emails through networks rather than paper memos. As for your regular food, consume more fresh food rather than processed and frozen foods. Use water efficiently and repair leakage. Tell your friends and family to join in the commitment to save the environment.

Improving Our World One LED Light at a Time

LED lights are a wonderful invention that has changed the way the world is lit. Not only are they long lasting, they have many environmental benefits. LED lights are four times more efficient than a regular incandescent light bulb and last 10 times as long. LED lights also use between 50 and 80 percent less energy than an incandescent bulb.

LED lights are considerably less expensive to operate, however are a little more expensive to purchase. LED home lighting requires only one third of the energy that an incandescent bulb will use. A single 18-watt LED light can replace a 75-watt incandescent and in the lifetime of the LED light, will save 570 kWh of energy. At a basic eight cents per kilowatt rate, that equals $45 dollars in energy bill savings.

By switching to low energy LED home lighting in your home, even one bulb will keep one half of a ton of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere through the lifetime of the bulb instead of using incandescent bulbs. Switching also keeps sulfur oxide and nuclear waste out of the atmosphere as well, leading to a cleaner world and one that will last much longer. By simply switching, our environment could easily revitalize itself without having to deal with the excess carbon dioxide, sulfur oxide and nuclear waste emissions that are currently being released into the atmosphere every day. Even changing one lonely bulb in every home to LED home lighting would make a significant impact on the environment.

If every home in the United States were to switch to LED home lighting, 90 power plants could be retired, a potentially powerful impact to the long-term health of the environment. Being energy efficient and environmentally conscious doesn’t have to disrupt your entire life. The switch is as difficult as changing one light bulb in your home, the results of which would save you money on your electricity bill each month. Just one home lighting fixture, one light bulb can be a positive step forward for your household. Take a look around your home and count how many bulbs you use and consider how often you change them. Say, for example that you change a bulb every two months. Now, consider that by changing them all to LED lighting for your home, you could leave them and not have to replace them for 20 months. The slightly higher upfront costs of LED lights make sense.

LED lighting is finding its way into many niche markets. You can get a LED flashlight that also uses less battery energy, ensuring that the next time the power goes out in your home, you can be confident that your batteries will last. There are also LED lanterns that you can choose from that are ideal for camping or hunting. They last for considerably longer than other lanterns because they use 10 times less energy to run than standard incandescent bulbs and even less energy than a kerosene lantern.

For LED home lighting, there are many options available other than just bulbs. You can find LED light fixtures for your home, indoor and out, that will provide low energy, environmentally-friendly lighting that can save you money on your energy bill.

We all are challenged to do our part to conserve energy. By making small adjustments to the way we live, we can begin to make an impact on our world. One small change we all can make is to switch our home and outdoor light fixtures to LED light options. There are a large number of options for LED home lighting and LED camping and hunting outdoor equipment available on the market, all of which provide the energy efficiency benefits inherent in LED products. The benefits can become apparent very quickly as we begin to see our energy bill costs reduce over a period of a few months.

"Can I Save the World?" Easy Solutions to Global Warming at our Fingertips

With so much information out there about global warming and the effects that are causing natural disasters, is there anything we as individuals can do to make a difference? Yep! You don't need to move mountains, but a small pebble can really make ripples that can create positive changes world wide. Here's a few "pebbles" you can use today!

We all feel we have a purpose in life. As more of us become aware of the damaging effects of global warming, we are also concerned about practical solutions to the problem. Most importantly, how can we fit in as part of the solution, instead of the problem?

Unfortunately, many of us become overwhelmed when we watch the ever-increasing natural disasters and it starts to feel like the world is crashing around us. I remember watching the plane hit the World Trade Center over and over and over again. I remember being completely paralyzed to the television. Sleep was optional, but only in between important news breaks. I felt helpless. I wanted to understand the reasoning behind the attacks to ease my fears of possible future attacks, but I mainly wanted a sense of control back into my life.

I do not like to focus on the doom of global warming because that's not the best mindset for me to find solutions and implement actions. I truly believe we all can make a difference in our lives, in the lives of our families, friends and community. I also am a firm believer that every single action taken produces a ripple effect throughout the world. When we take a simple action such as changing a light bulb to a compact fluorescent bulb, a positive motion is set in place.

Just for fun, let's see what can happen: (this will show how the action affects others)

o That old bulb in the living finally goes out. You go to your local hardware store and see miles of shelves of light bulbs! OY! (production of CFL bulbs)

o Someone comes over to help and maybe suggest a CFL. "A what?" you ask. The assistant tells you that even though the bulb is more expensive than a basic tungsten bulb, it will last years longer, it will not burn hot, uses way less energy, thus saving you money every month AND prevents the release of more than 450 pounds of emission from a power plant normally used to light the old style bulbs into the air! (increased sales and more potential advertisement of a green product, decreased amount of carbons released into the atmosphere)

o You read the advertisement and glimpse the familiar Energy Star sign. So, you think, "Why not!" (increased awareness of a great program)

o You go home and your kids ask you about the funny looking bulb. (educates the kids and tell their friends how smart their parents are!)

o Your friends come over for dinner and recognize the bulb, but never really considered buying one until now. (increased awareness through word-of mouth [extremely powerful!!!] and more potential sales, advertisement, decreased emissions)

o You get the electric bill the next month and notice you really did use less electricity AND saved a little money. ($$$)

o You go to buy more CFL bulbs and realize the prices dropped a bit due to increased sales! (supply and demand of a product that improves our world)

That's just for changing one bulb! Just one action really can make an impact. Just because we do not always see the immediate results don't mean they aren't there!

So what are the best solutions of global warming? Can we help save the world? Yep. I would first suggest do whatever feels right for you. The level of comfort will be different for everyone. To me, it can be summed up as: AWARENESS and ACTION

AWARENESS

My first exposure to environmental issues came about while working at Home Depot. I watch as a person chained himself to our lumber shelves and awaited the local police. His actions, maybe a bit extreme to some, created awareness to the customers, Home Depot and the media. Many of those same actions ultimately changed the way Home Depot purchased and sold lumber.

For me, my level of comfort was turning off the lights. The more I learned, the more I did to help the environment. Learning about basic, easy-to-do home repairs really made a difference and increased my confidence as well as the confidence of my customers.

Now, years later, I must say living in Thailand has taught me a lot about saving energy as well as joining together for what you believe in. I've seen Thais go to the employment office and march because wages were too low. I have witnessed the ousting of a political figure because the Thais felt betrayed.

I have greater respect for Thais and for others I've met from different countries. Their views and actions have taught me so much about global warming. I also have greater appreciation for our abilities as Americans to make changes worldwide.

So to further answer people's question - "What are the best solutions to global warming?" My suggestions are all easy to do, but the main factor lies with what is comfortable for you. If I am given a great idea, but is too time-intensive, I probably won't do it. But if it's as easy as hitting the enter key, now you got my attention!

Ok. We are much more aware of what's going on. We understand we have a problem. Now what?

ACTION

I started with small steps. As I learned more, I found the bigger steps easier than I realized. I discussed my views with others and listened to their ideas.

My friends in Alabama recently installed solar heaters and a tank less water heater. Businesses are seeing the advantages of doing the right thing and stepping up their environmental cleaning efforts People from all walks of life have created petitions requesting a more proactive government. Even the 2008 Presidential Candidates are listening. Many are now including global warming as their primary issue.

Need some ideas to get your creative green juices flowing? OK! Here you go! Enjoy!

o Get the family involved - make it fun and educational.

o Make it a project during your child's science fair.

o Chat with your friends - they may have some unique ideas.

o Add a signature tag to your emails. I have a personal account with Yahoo. Whenever I send someone an email, my signature message or quote is at the end of the page. I create the signature once and forget about it. If you see a quote you like or have a message to share with others - signature it!

o Find out what tax incentives or refunds are available to you, i.e. hybrid car tax incentives, toilet replacement rebates, deduct the costs of energy-saving appliances and energy renovations in your home.

o Support greener businesses. Our money dictates what businesses sell. Our support encourages businesses to continue doing the right thing.

o Want to invest in the stock market? What companies are moving forward in clean-up? Researching new technologies? Contributing portions of their profits to support environmental organizations?

o Vote. What candidates are fighting for positive changes in the environment? Who seems to be making global warming a primary focus in their campaign? How does the candidate balance global warming and the economy? Does the candidate understand the threat and what solutions does he or she offer?

o Join others online and become a part of something bigger. In the past, petitions involved going door-to-door or standing near the mall entrance. Thanks to the internet, a letter to Congress has never been easier - or more effective! Read the letter already prepared. If you agree with it, type your name and hit ENTER !

o Submit your ideas to websites. I would love input from you! Your ideas can be just what someone else needed! Many websites would also benefit from your thoughts and appreciate the communication!

o Start a discussion group in your community. Barnes and Noble or Borders are excellent meetings spots. It's a great way to meet others and bounce around ideas.

o Help improve your neighborhood. In Tampa, there's a wonderful community group that has a Project Lottery. Each participant chooses a project they need completed on their house. A name is pulled every month. The neighbors spend one weekend on the project. The lucky owner provides drinks and snacks to the neighbors volunteering.

o Create a website of your own! Everyone has a voice. Today, websites are effective communicators and very inexpensive. Get the kids or the community involved. Let your voice be heard too!

Spa Covers Going Green?

All this talk about going green, a big part of saving the environment is to not create more waste that will just end up clogging our land fills. Follow me on this for a minute... There are 10 million spa owners in the USA, and each one of them uses a typical rigid foam spa cover on their hot tub. For the sake of this demonstration each foam cover is only two inches thick and every spa is eight feet by eight feet. That would mean each spa cover contained about 10.666 cubic feet of foam per spa cover. For the rest of this example we will use 10.5 cubic feet per cover.

If each cover on every spa becomes saturated within two years and needs to be replaced that would mean that we would be adding 52.5 million cubic feet of waste to our landfills in just spa covers every year.
If it takes two and a half covers worth of foam to make up one cubic yard that translates to 4 million cubic yards of waste added to our land fills every two years just in spa covers.

If there are 11 million Cubic yards of stone in the Great Pyramid at Giza, we are adding enough foam to build a duplicate of it to our landfills just from used spa covers every six years conservatively. There are four and a half million cubic yards of concrete in Hoover Dam. We could build a two lane highway of discarded foam filled spa covers from Seattle Washington to Miami Florida every two years.

In case you have not noticed most foam filled spa covers are not two inches thick anymore. If all those old foam covers were four inches thick all these calculations would be double.
But we are just being conservative so we want to stick with two inches thick. If we ripped the covers in half and laid those pieces end to end we could circle the earth at the equator on used spa covers every two years.

Heck with parking lots, in a few years we could pave the entire planet with foam just from saturated foam spa covers from the USA alone.

So what is the solution? Well shop for a better spa cover. There are options available on the internet that your local spa dealer probably does not offer. You do not have to quit using your spa to save us. You just need to get a Spa Cover that does not use foam to insulate. There would be two major advantages to doing so. First the spa cover that did not use rigid foam to insulate would last longer. Since what always fails in the typical spa cover is the foam, either breaking or getting so saturated that you cannot lift it, a spa cover that did not use foam would tend to last longer.

Second, if the new type of spa cover does not use rigid foam it will also be a lot more friendly to the environment when it does come time to discard it. Less trash, less waste, less land fill, not that is what going green is all about.

Role of Energy Performance Certificate Advisors

Who needs an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate, also known as EPC, is the rating given to specific properties in the United Kingdom region. This grading is normally done for four or more bedroom houses and is used to encourage households to achieve optimum energy efficiency. An Energy Performance Certificate is part of the Home Information Pack. The agent or the seller is required to commission the certificate which is issued by accredited agents called Energy Performance Certificate assessors. The information collected by the assessor includes the location and construction. He is also required to check the fittings such as heating and insulation systems.

What information does an Energy Performance Certificate provide?

An Energy Performance Certificate is a certificate indicating the energy efficiency of a home. This assessment is indicated through grading which is done on a scale of A to G with the houses belonging to category A being the most energy efficient and having the best energy saving techniques. The environmental impact of the house is also indicated by the Energy Performance Certificate with the houses in Category A having lesser carbon dioxide emissions. An average home in the United Kingdom gets a D or E rating. Steps are suggested in the Energy Performance Certificates so that homes can improve their energy consumption pattern and save money.

Who are Energy performance certificate advisers?

Energy performance certificate advisors are the same as Energy Performance Certificate assessors. These advisers are members of an accreditation scheme and adhere to its code of conduct and procedures. They are called so, since, along with assessing the energy efficiency of homes, these professionals are also required to give advice regarding the steps that can be taken to improve the energy efficiency of the house, to improve the efficiency ratings of the house and to save money on energy consumption bills.

How can environmental-surveyors.com help?

which is a firm of professional chartered environmental surveyors. Although there are many firms offering similar services, Wilburn Associates are the best in the field. The firm employs expert Energy performance certificate advisers who can assess the energy efficiency of a house and also issue the performance certificates. Not only is the firm involved in helping their clients check the land contamination or asbestos contamination on their sites, it also helps them clear their property of those contaminants.
On the official site, you can find information regarding the services offered by the firm which include environment screenings, environmental impact assessments, and the assessment and issuing land quality statements. If you need help regarding clearing any issue related to land development or assessment, chances are that the articles on the site related to these issues will be of help to you.

Fuel Saving Products

With the continual rise of gas prices it has become a wise decision to buy a car that saves fuel. A statistic says that as many as fifteen percent of car buyers reject a certain car model because they are not satisfied with its fuel saving features. Even more, some consumers rule out from the very beginning certain car models, such as SUVs, because they have very poor gas mileage.

Advice on how to improve gas mileage can be found almost anywhere – magazines, web sites, etc.- but can you really turn them into an everyday habit? Will you be able to drive slower every day or maintain the same speed at all time or use air conditioning to the minimum because it is known that fuel consumption will be increased . Of course, changing the oil and the air filters on a regular basis will ensure an improved gas mileage, but fuel saving won’t be spectacular and these procedures are not cost-free. Therefore, more and more consumers turn to a product which saves fuel.

The fuel saving products on the market fall into several categories. One of them is gas additives. It is based on a very sound mechanism and it’s very effective as far as costs are concerned. Its efficiency has been demonstrated scientifically and when using such a fuel saving product, you needn’t worry about low performance or increased exhaust emissions or short engine life anymore.

The testing of these fuel saving products is done according to established standards. Not only don’t they have a negative effect on the environment, but they are actually environment-friendly. How do these products work? The process is quite simple. The hydrocarbons in the gas have the tendency to curl up and form clusters, making it impossible for the oxygen to reach the fuel entirely. For this reason, the gas hydrocarbons burn only partially and what isn’t burned will result into exhaust emissions. The fuel saving products work to ease this process and make exhaust emissions lower.

Fuel saving additives can be found in shops or on the Internet. Regardless of the form they come in, that is liquid or solid, s tablets, they share a characteristic, which is that every product which saves fuel needs to be added when filling up the gas tank. Like many other products in the field, fuel savings products need to be used several times before their effects will become apparent. It is also important that you stick to same fuel saving product and remember that the effects will be obvious only after several fill-ups of your tank.

Fuel saving products improve the maneuverability of your car and the drivability of your engine because they release the engines components in general and the fuel injectors in particular of any possible deposits, while others provide the fuel system of your car with moisture.

A product that saves fuel is most likely to have been tested and registered so it’ s safe to use, but you have to make sure that these conditions are fulfilled. The fuel system of your vehicle will definitely not be harmed and you can relax about the exhaust emissions as well, because a fuel saving product will certainly not increase them. Tests of the products can be done in independent labs but that doesn’t make them less reliable. The most common way to test a product which saves fuel is to compare the test results on the same car, tests which has been performed with and without a fuel saving gas additive.

An effective way to ensure low fuel consumption is to make changes in your driver behavior. However, since this will most certainly not be enough, your satisfaction is guaranteed with a fuel saving product.

Spa Water Treatment Options

Since mankind decided that hot tubs would be fun we have had to face the challenge of keeping that water clear and safe. Chlorine and Bromine have been in use since almost day one. Both have their advantages. They kill everything. The down side is also that they kill everything. By that I mean that Chlorine and Bromine are both caustic chemicals. That is both how they function and what makes them less desirable. Not only do they kill germs and bacteria but they are harmful to your skin, hair, bathing suits, spa jets, pump impellers, pets and environment. With the heightened awareness of the environment and our own physical health, there has been a wide variety of alternatives to the old standards.

Minerals can be used to treat the spa water with less harmful effects. First, Copper can be used to treat your water and keeps stuff from growing in your water. It is a lot safer for your skin, hair and health, and won’t cause premature break down of your pump and jet components. Still, because it does a good job of killing things you need to use care when you empty your spa. Some areas have banned using copper to treat water because if it does end up in the water shed it will kill fish and algae.

Another popular choice is Silver and zinc. I would just recommend sticking with the liquid based versions. You should never use anything directly in the filter area of the spa because you do not want the risk of anything being sucked into the water pump.

Ozone can also be effective in water treatment. It works by exposing ultra violet light to air which forms an energetic oxidizer. It destroys algae, viruses and bacteria. Again you should know how to use your system properly. Avoid over exposure to ozone while using the spa. No ozone bubbles should be entering the spa during occupancy. Also you should not be able to smell ozone while you are in the spa.

One thing that a lot of spa owners forget about is checking your spa water pH. Maintaining the proper pH level can greatly improve the effectiveness of the water treatment. Spa water that is not properly balanced can cause irritation to eyes, and mucous membranes. Just because you keep a handle on your chemical treatment, do not get lazy about checking the pH.

Finally, circulation of the water. Stagnant water, especially warm stagnant water is a breeding ground for life. Regular circulation of the water for significant periods of time will reduce the need for chemicals and increases the effectiveness of the spas filtration. It is better overall for your spa pump to run for three to four hours at a time for two to three times per day as opposed to running for thirty minutes at a time ten times per day. If your spa only runs for thirty minutes it does no have enough time to properly filter all the spa water.

The bottom line is that yo want to be able to enjoy your spa for years to come. However like your car, regular maintenance can have a profound influence on that. If you maintain your car, change the oil, replace the filters, rotate the tires, you stand a much better choice of enjoying your vehicle with fewer unpleasant surprises. The same goes for your spa.

The Older the Tree, the Harder the Wood

It may come as a surprise to learn how many different types of wood are used in furniture making, each one with their own specific properties, weight, density and grain.

The hardwood Teak comes from the Teak (Tectona) tree, which grows in southern Asia. The teak is a 30 to 40 ft deciduous tree (its leaves fall off during the winter months). Hardwoods are those which have a high number of pores and a high density. In general hardwoods resist decay better than their softwood counterparts which makes them very suitable for outdoor and patio furniture. Much like cedar and cypress wood, teak has its own natural resins that protect it from damage from extreme weather conditions, especially damp rot. A common problem faced by woods is termite damage and teak is particularly resistant against these pests.
There are three different types of teak tree: the Tectona grandis (the common teak), the Tectona philippinensis (Phillippine teak) and the Tectona hamiltoniana (Dahat teak). The Dahat and Phillippine teak are now endangered and therefore the vast majority of teak furniture is crafted from the common teak tree.

Teak has been popular in furniture making for hundreds of years due to its attractive look and all round durability and was in great demand in the 1950’s and 60’s when the rise of the Danish Modern style arose. The wood is typically a rich golden brown, but can vary from very pale to dark terracotta red. However, like any other type of wood it can be stained, treated or painted to change its colour yet still look natural. Although not needed with teak, treated wood has the additional advantage of further protection against weather conditions. Its grain is straight, and the wood oily yet grainy.

Although teak wood does have remarkable qualities that protect it against harsh weather, it is not limited to being used as outdoor furniture. It is commonly used as a veneer and is a fixture inside the home as flooring and general teak furniture like closets, tables and chairs.

The older the teak tree, the harder and denser the wood, which means it doesn’t split as easily as young trees. Although more expensive, older trees are more desirable in furniture making. Joining teak wood is relatively difficult due to its density, so these details are important to take into consideration when complicated furniture pieces such as chairs and plant boxes are made. Despite this, manufacturers of teak are experts in the profession and ensure the highest quality safety for the furniture that they make.

Teak can be used to make almost any type of patio furniture including chairs, tables, planters, pergolas, loungers, storage boxes, benches and rocking chairs. Its tropical look makes it great for use in the summer and look especially attractive placed near or directly on grass.

As an extremely durable hardwood, teak makes an attractive and sensible choice for the furniture that is placed in a back garden, patio or deck and after spanning many centuries, still remains a popular choice.

Dog Training: Tame Your Pets at Ease

If you have a new puppy or dog, then you need to provide some sort of basic training for your pet. You can train your dog yourself or can get it trained through an obedience instructor. As dogs are like kids, they need proper training to mold them into obedient pets. With the required training, your dog can learn how to behave. You can be a happy owner if you have a trained dog. Dog training involves learning to communicate with a dog properly. You can train young pups within 2 to 3 weeks while for an older dog it can take about 7 to 8 weeks for training. Basic training can be started for pups when they are about 8 -12 weeks old for teaching commands and tricks. From about 3 to 6 months, formal classes can begin.

With understanding and patience, the trainer can impart efficient training to resolve the behavioral problems of dogs. For adequate training of your dog, you do not require any strong language or physical discipline. There are a number of methods for making training enjoyable for both your dog and yourself. Certain specific trainings are also available for dogs for doing tasks such as rescue dogs, guiding for the blind, hunting dogs etc.

When providing training for your dog, ensure that the place is open and quiet without any distractions. You can make the training experience an enjoyable one for both of you for ensuring that your dog stays happy, gains confidence and behaves well. The way and tone of speech is important in dog training. You need to use a friendly and happy tone for commands like 'come' and ‘heel’. Your voice can be firm and low for commands such as ' stay' and ‘Sit down'. You need to appreciate your puppy or dog by offering some toy or food when it obeys the command. After the training class, you can take a little time to play with your pup or dog and this can develop a bond between both of you during the training. You should have good endurance to train and always should avoid harsh punishment.

Remember that food is important in dog training, as most dogs will love to eat. Some foods are tasty for dogs and it is also convenient for the trainer as bits of food can be kept in bag or pockets. Also note that giving food brings positive associations while training. You need to just know which food your dog likes. Never use food for behavior control; instead food should support a behavior. Never train the dog on a full stomach.

Keep the leash a bit loose when you walk with your dog because a tight leash could teach the dog to pull. Do not punish the dog after calling to you. Only one command should be given at any one time. Dogs cannot differentiate the good and bad deeds, as they know specific behavior to certain situations; therefore name a behavior to reinforce some control. Behavior will increase with reward.

You can also choose online dog training if a dog trainer or dog training school is not accessible. You can enroll for some online dog training classes and know all the secrets and techniques used by professional dog trainers for activity training, behavior training and obedience training.

Choosing A Dog Obedience Training Course Online

Every dog owner wants a dog that is well trained, but sometimes your dog may be a little problematic or you simply may not have the time or be know how to train him correctly. Fortunately help is at hand. You can sign your dog up in a dog obedience training school.
Or, you can learn about Dog Obedience Training.

You may know people with disobedient dogs, or possibly even accepted that your dog will simply not do as he/she is told. You may have simply become accustomed to returning home to find chewed up shoes and trash scattered all over the house.

You may have even taken to walking your dog at night because that’s when none of your neighbors are outside. For the reason that you just can’t manage your dog when people and/or other dogs are about.

You don’t have to give yourself up to believing that your dog can’t be controlled.
In reality you are accountable to yourself and your dog and you can get him/her trained appropriately. Obedience training your dog can reverse the difficulties for both yourself and your dog.

If your dog howls or barks a lot and tries to get loose you may even find yourself with a legal problem as well. And, if your dog will not come up to you when called, he/she could be seriously injured or worse. Or, at the very least get into trouble.

A dog obedience training school will give you an idea about you can establish a connection with your dog and teach you how to make him to pay attention to you.

He/she will be trained how to act with people around and also with other dogs.
You will also be able to teach your dog the fundamental instructions such as “sit”, “down”, “heel” and “stay”.
Your dog will even take pleasure in this. Pleasing you, his master, is #1 on his list. And he will have your attention, which in fact is all that he wants in the first place.

Selection of a dog obedience training school or course is sort of like deciding on a school for your kids. You would like no doubt, to send him to the proper one. Of course, given that you will, in all probability, be attending, or training yourself, you would like one that works for the both of you. So you have to do a bit of investigation before you decide on the dog obedience training school or online course.

One thing to think about when considering a dog obedience training school/course is a recommendation from others who have used the school/course.
Maybe you have a co-worker, a neighbor, or a friend you can inquire from.
If not, feel free to request recommendations and/or call up somebody who has experienced the course.
You ought to have a list of essential queries you can inquire about the school and the effect of dog obedience training. If you get encouraging replies then you have found your school/course.
One more thing you have to do when sorting your selection of dog obedience training schools is to drop in at the “campus”. Be sure that the school/course is well structured and the instructors are qualified.

Globalization and Poverty

Many farmers who traditionally grew pulses and millets and paddy have been lured by seed companies to buy hybrid cotton seeds and other GM crops, which were supposed to make their lives easier and wealthier. Instead they faced bankruptcy and ruin.

Their native seeds have been displaced with new hybrids which cannot be saved and need to be purchased every year at a high cost. Hybrids are also very vulnerable to pest attacks. All pesticides have to be bought from the company that sold them the seeds; there have been reports of blatant profiteering from these companies.

It is experiences such as these which tell me that we are so wrong to be smug about the new global economy. It is time to stop and think about the impact of globalization on the lives of ordinary people. This is vital if we want to achieve sustainability.

We are repeatedly told that without genetic engineering and globalization of agriculture the world will starve, it is constantly promoted as the only alternative available for feeding the hungry.

Everywhere, food production is becoming a negative economy, with farmers spending more buying costly inputs for industrial production than the price they receive for their produce. The consequence is rising debts and epidemics of suicides in both rich and poor countries. Cows in the European Union receive on average $2 per day in subsidies. Over 1 billion people live in the world on less than $1 dollar a day.

Farmers in the Third World are encouraged by the IMF and the World Bank to produce cash crops for export. There are usually commodities that can be easily bought and sold on the World Markets. With fluctuating world prices, Fair trade is what can drag farmers and communities out of poverty. In some African countries it is cheaper to buy American sugar and coffee than it is to buy locally produced goods. This is because of over production and subsidies in the West which means that they then dump these goods on Africa destroying local markets.

When patents are granted to companies for seeds and plants, as in the case of basmati, saving and sharing seed is defined as theft of intellectual property. Corporations which have broad patents on crops such as cotton, soya bean and mustard are suing farmers for seed-saving and hiring detective agencies to find out if farmers have saved seed or shared it with neighbors.

As Gandhi reminded us, "The Earth has enough for everyone's needs, but not for some people's greed."

How To Be A Success

Learn how to master your area of endeavor the right way. Start out by finding the people and books that will make you exceptional. Seek out the best sources of information that you can afford.

Analyze each part of the skill you wish to master, then put it all together to create a fluid form. Develop first a theoretical understanding, then a practical one. When you practice your knowledge, your work will flow and appear effortless.

Practice relentlessly. Spend long hours practicing. Keep a regular schedule for your activity. If you have long gaps between practice, you will lose some momentum in mastering your skill. The cumulative effect of practice will make you exceptional.

Self-discipline will come from imagination. When you can create a burning desire by imagining your ultimate success, self-discipline will happen spontaneously. If you do not have a burning desire, you may want to rethink your goals. Unless you feel passionate about your goals, the smallest obstacle will throw you off course.

Believe in yourself. Recall all the previous successes you have had in your life. Use these memories to build an enduring self-confidence. When you believe that you can do something, you will find a way to make your belief come true.

If you methodically prepare for your own particular game you will find yourself on the way to mastery. You can win in any of the games of life. Just decide on it, and follow up with study and practice.
You can move beyond your stuck states by contemplating all the possible consequences of your own particular situation.

What is it that you want to work in your life?
What inner obstacles prevent you from achieving the successful outcome you desire?

Once you have confronted your own fears, then you will be ready to take stock of your current situation and try out new strategies.

There are three stages of problem-solving.

First, get clear on your vague fears and imaginings. Bring them out in the open. Confront them. See what is really going on. Unless you can ask the right question, which comes from getting the right perspective on the issue, you will not be able to
start looking for the right answer.

Second, once you have some inner clarity, freed from emotional congestion, look at your problems objectively, empirically. Ask yourself what needs to happen here to make things work out? Ask an objective, matter-of-fact, question. Avoid subjective, questions.

And third, apply all available resources to solve your problem. Make a list of all your resources. This includes people you can query or books, articles, or multimedia you can learn from.

Above all, find your way back to faith in your situation. When you believe in yourself, when you can rekindle the flame of hope in your heart, when you can reanimate your brain and your nervous system then the creative solution to your problem will arise. Once you clear the vague, illusive, obstructive emotional blocks, your mind will function clearly and well.
Once you confront a problem head on, you are halfway there to resolving it. Turning your back on problems, avoiding them, and procrastinating only makes them more substantial and terrifying. Once you face your fears, you can begin to solve your problem. Once you have brought your fears to light, courage returns, and with courage comes hope, and with hope, creativity, boldness, and magic.

Problems appear frustratingly difficult to solve because they come with a lot of emotional charge. But once you remove the charge, you will see that you need to take only three simple steps to solve them.

Be Truthful To Your Own Self To Succeed

Had a tough day today. The markets were under heavy profit taking. As a day trader, I was doing my best trying to salvage my positions in the markets and cutting losses before the damage becomes too big. I have a feeling this market that has been going up for quite some time, would go through more correction before coming back up again.

Towards the end of the day, I had managed to trim my positions to a very minimum level. A little damage ($) but manageable. There was another reason why I reduced my positions. I would be on a short holiday in Indonesia from tomorrow for almost a week. I am not sure whether I would be able to write as I would be leaving my laptop computer behind. Strict instructions from my wife! She says that I am spending way too much of time with the machine.

Anyway, I have some thoughts to share. Over the years, using my first book, The Seven Basic Laws Of Nature, many people have started new businesses. Quite a large number that used Nature's Laws positively achieved the success that they wanted.

Here, I would like to be honest with you. Although there are many successes, there are those who had encountered failures (or I call them temporary defeats). I can write on and on about those who succeeded, but in this entry, I would like to share some thoughts with regards to those who went through these so-called temporary defeats.

One of my seminar participants and a good friend, encountered this temporary defeat a number of years back. He was doing quite well as a quality control executive of an automobile company that assembled luxury cars. Although he earned well, he never really had much time for himself as he was always occupied with his job. Deep in him, he wanted to know more about himself, the universe, existence, Nature and all that jazz.

This is when the Law of Vibration and Attraction comes in to effect; changes began to take place in his life as per his constant and powerful thoughts. The company he was working for were trying to cut cost as they were losing the dealership for one of their popular car model. As such, they offered him a VSS (Voluntary Separation Scheme) that amounted to quite a large sum of money because he had been working in the company for many years.

He took the option and used the money to start a business in the food industry. He got together with a relative and they produced a local delicacy in large scale to supply to the local supermarkets. He now had more time to pursue the things that he wanted to do. At first business was good but eventually things begin to go wrong, as there were some misunderstandings with his partners. He tried desperately to continue managing and hang on to the ailing business. More and more of his money was going down the drain.

While telling me about his situation, he told me that he practiced Nature's Laws positively and he sincerely could not see what he was doing wrong. I smiled and said that in order for Nature's Laws to work positively to provide positive results, he must search deeply within him what he really wanted in his life. He looked at me intently waiting for me to explain. I said to him, "My friend, in order for the whole of Nature to work with you, not only you need to practice Nature's Laws positively, but you also need to be truthful to your own self!"

Then, I asked him whether the business that he ventured into was something that his heart had really wanted to do. He replied that it was not really his first option. In fact, he loved the automobile industry more. He was in the current business because he saw the money that can be made. Then I suggested to him to pursue his original love, that is the automobile industry. This is when he said that he could not afford to because he had lost all his money in the current business venture. I asked him whether there was a way to salvage it. He replied saying that he cannot seem to find a way. I looked at him intently and said, "My friend, I think it is time to cut your losses and move on!"

After much thought, he took the advice and closed the business. As he did this and started to pursue a business in the automobile industry, in a relatively short period of time, he got a contract to fix high-end alarm system to luxury cars. Now, he is earning much better than before, and has more time for himself.

All through our life, we are taught subconsciously about attachment. We get attached to our family, material wealth, position at work and so on. Please note that I am not saying that attachment is bad. As long as we are in this physical body and living on this plane of existence, attachment will naturally exist. However, it is also vitally important to learn of the other aspect of life, which is called detachment. We come into this world alone and we eventually leave alone. All that we have acquired is from this world and eventually we have to return it back to this world including the body.

As such, always have a balanced view of life. Develop your intellect to be able to choose, as per the Law of Choosing; that is to choose to be attached and also detached when the need arises.

As for me, I have cut my losses for the day, but I will be back another day, as my heart is still in day trading. It is a part and parcel of the game (winning and losing). Kind of sounds like LIFE doesn't it?

Treat Nature With Respect To Avoid Destruction

I had diarrhea throughout the night. That was tough! I wonder what Nature was trying to teach me?! Probably not to eat too much of chilly!

I felt better in the morning. Diana, our host in Jakarta came and picked us up at about 10.30am. We were heading to the animal safari which is about an hour journey from Jakarta. As we were nearing the place, there were some people selling carrots for the animals. We bought some carrots from a small girl who was hardly 10 years old. It wasn't easy bargaining with her though! She was good and pretty well versed in the trade!

As we are not allowed out of the car, we could only see some animals at close range. The white tigers were beautiful; up 'till now I have seen them only in pictures. At this point, someone in our group remarked, "I wonder who is being watched now, we or the animals? Are we humans here to watch the animals, or the animals watch us humans caged up (in car)?!" Upon hearing that, we all burst out laughing.

Come to think about that, when we look around us, Nature seems to be doing a fine job taking care of all animal and plant species. There seem to be chaos among the animal and plant world only when humans are around; for example deforestation, weather change, rising of global temperature, destruction of ozone layer and so on.

Nature is taking its course in correcting the damage humans are creating. Nature balances, by first causing destruction in the world of humans itself, using its primary weapons which are ether (e.g. negative thoughts), air (e.g. airborne diseases), fire (e.g. forest fires), water (e.g. tsunamis, massive floods), and earth (e.g. barren soil, earthquake), to do its work. The moment one species begin to cause massive damage and harm the existence of another species, it is just a matter of time before Nature does its work. Of the three Nature's primary function; creation, preservation and destruction; that which is most feared even among the wise men and women in the past is destruction!

It has always been my sincere hope that, we, human beings, the highest known evolved species on earth, according to science; would recognize our mistakes and start treating Nature with much respect.

Anyway, coming back to Jakarta, we headed to Diana's home. My wife and other two of our friends went for massage and shopping, while I just wanted to sleep. I was having a severe headache. We would be catching an early flight back to Kualalampur tomorrow.

Am I Really That Powerful?

People often speak of miracles by saying that they experience the power of God as if the power of God was beyond anything we can readily imagine or experience. But the truth is, as we develop the receptivity to OWNING God's power as our OWN and start to realize that it is within each and every one of us, we begin to develop what has been called the mental equivalent of that which we want to create. We get the KNOWING that it is already ours. "The Secret" reminded us and the Law of Attraction teaches us, but do we really know our power?

I can remember the first time, way back when, that I did a spiritual mind treatment or affirmative prayer. I remember feeling? Wow? What I am speaking is really going to happen. In fact, it is happening as I speak. Do you remember the first time that happened to you? We get that there is a Power that we can use. We get to the knowing and owning that it is already ours. That's when we come to see the miraculous as the ordinary in our experience. Do you really know how powerful you are? Do you know that the same power that is "out there" is in each and every one of us?

I remember once a woman coming to see me, whom I had not met before. She had only been to our church once, so she didn't really know any of this teaching. She started telling me about a serious problem she was having with cancer. And as she was speaking, I got real clear that her problem had nothing to do with cancer. She began to share more and more, and began to tell me about the fact that she had been and was still in a very abusive relationship. She began to say to me, "I think that's the issue. I'm terrified of stepping out on my own. Where would I ever get insurance?

Who would take care of me? (Not that he was taking care of her!) I just listened and didn't say a word to this woman. She sat there and looked at me and said, "I think I brought this into my life." I would never have said to her, "You brought cancer into your life." I don't believe in that. You don't want to look at people and say, "You have a cold? You must be doing xyz." She said to me, "I'm beginning to realize that my allowing these experiences is actually causing and creating my experiences."

She was sitting in a chair and she suddenly jumped up out of the chair and said, "I'm powerful, aren't I?" I said, "Yes, you are." Then she said, "If I can do that, I can change my life." She looked at me and started to cry, saying, "I've been through years and years of therapy and I've never felt free. I'm free." I didn't do a thing. She heard herself and in my presence, while I held a conscious space, she began to see her own power.

So, for all of us who are creating muck in our lives, see how powerful we are? Look what we can do. When we speak our word, and know what it is very clearly that we want, we can create it.

Relaxation Techniques to Combat Stress

With the increased pressures of modern life more and more people find it difficult to switch off and relax at the end of the day. This can lead to sleepless nights which creates further anxiety that can make life feel more unbearable.

Eventually this can create a feeling of being overwhelmed or stressed out. However, there are lifestyle changes that you can make in order to reduce your stress and promote relaxation in your life:

1) Get regular massages
We all know about the reputed benefits of a massage in aiding relaxation of the body and mind. Whilst you could get a partner or close friend to give your shoulders, back or feet a good rub down, to truly feel long-term benefits you should enlist the services of a trained professional to give you regular massages.

Don't think of this as an indulgent treat but rather an essential part of your well-being routine. For as well as relaxing the muscles (and making you feel as chilled out as an Eskimo), the benefits of regular massage include improved blood flow and a boosted immune system.

2) Hang up your phone
When you leave the office you need to be able to switch off from work - and that includes your phone! This is important to do as once your work colleagues get into the habit of being able to contact you at all hours they will. Remember, the phone is there for your convenience, not just the caller's.

3) Compile some chillout tunes
Put together or buy a CD of relaxing music to ease your mind and help you switch off from the outside world. Research has shown that even from the womb relaxing/classical music can be beneficial in promoting well-being.

4) Read a good book
Emily Dickinson wrote, " There is not frigate like a book to take us lands away," which is a great way to sum up the way in which reading a good book can help you to get your mind off your worries - if only for a while.

5) Practice yoga
Yoga is a great way to escape from everything going on around by taking you into your own little world. As well as being a good form of working out, it can help you to build your self esteem and confidence, helping you to bring about a positive change in your life.

6) Drink herbal teas
Herbals teas such as peppermint and chamomile make better options than caffeine-infused drinks such as tea and coffee. The key to helping you to adapt your choice is to try different types until you find flavors which suit you taste buds. Many varieties are now widely supplied at most supermarkets.

7) Eat Right
All too often, and perhaps because of the hype of all the fad diets out there, people underestimate the impact of diet on our health and well-being. Simple steps such as cutting down on caffeine, alcohol and food high in fat or calories can produce beneficial effects such as helping you to feel healthier and less highly strung out or irritable.

8) Work Out
Now we're not talking about hours every day or "going for the burn." If you haven't exercised for a while you will want to take it easy and start off with manageable sessions. As well as the physical benefits of exercise, regular sessions can help to reduce your anxiety levels as "feel good" hormones are released.

9) Breathe
It's just like they say when you have a moment in which you feel you're going to have a meltdown. Take a deep breath and count to ten. Whilst this is a good start, you should aim to set aside time to sit down relax and focus on your breathing to the point that it slows down and feel more in control.

10) Get back to basics
Escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday stresses and strains by getting out to the countryside or a place close to nature. This can often provide the space you need to clear your mind, find focus and perhaps inspiration.

What Is The Meaning Of Life?

An excerpt from, “Why Take a Boat When You Can Walk On Water”?

Throughout time, man has struggled with his own destiny. Where, in the scheme of things does man fit in? What is the human condition and is man accountable for his own conditional state? Is there a God that administers man’s fate? Can man be successful in love and business and still have an intimate relationship with God? Should man be uplifted to the world? Is mankind enslaved to evil? There are so many questions that plagues the mind of man. I remember as a child I used to feel like an orphan, lost and forgotten. I had a wonderful father, mother and two sisters, yet I felt as if I were alone in a foreign place. I would lie on the lawn at night and stare at the heavens, thinking, why am I here, where did I come from, what is my purpose? .As a childish mind would have it, I simply couldn’t see the reasoning behind my being. I felt God had abandon me, and I could not restore our relationship. Over time, I quit seeking God and became infatuated with the world. Even as the world became my reality the question was still in the back of my mind. I could not keep from wondering why and who I was. An awareness began to creep into my mind that added to the feeling of not belonging to the world. I will attempt to stay on course and tell you how I was enlightened and how my experiences may shed some light on you in your search for God. It is my best intention to convey some insight of reason through our shared position in God’s purpose

Please, LORD, Make The Confusion Go Away!

This text is an account of a confused boy turning into a wayward man and his struggle with his own condition and God’s involvement in it. Apparently, there are many questions that go unanswered simply because people do not ask or fear asking the questions in the first place. They fear rejection from their peers and worse they fear the answers to their questions because they don’t want to know their true condition. They see themselves as something, that in most cases, they are not. Sick is sick no matter if you know it or not. You can’t make it go away, so you may as well face it and work on getting well.

But as it is written, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 29

Our relationship to God’s creation is a mystery in our eyes, and God wants it that way because if everything were known, there would be no faith. People simply can’t understand that they are as much a part of the creation as dirt itself. Truly, mankind couldn’t take the full measure of God’s revelation that’s one reason why God protects people from knowing the creation. The fact is; we see hear and feel in narrow ranges. Most colors and sounds are outside of our range of experience. If man could hear and see everything, then God Himself would be revealed, and God said no man hath seen me. He is beyond our comprehension and we are humbled at His presence and fear his mighty power. Even lowly angles instill fear in man when they come into his presence.

And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: 12That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. Mark 4:11

Ephesians 3:2 if, indeed, ye did hear of the dispensation of the grace of God that was given to me in regard to you, 3 that by revelation He made known to me the secret, according as I wrote before in few words 4 in regard to which ye are able, reading it, to understand my knowledge in the secret of the Christ, 5 which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it was now revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit
Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, 11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

THE NEVER ENDING CREATION
“And the Creation is Everlasting. “

Gen 9:16 And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that [is] upon the earth.

God, being timeless, is reveling Himself in his creation. If the creation is an unveiling of God, then, it has to be timeless also. Ever changing, but nevertheless timeless.

And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. Exodus 3:14

So, if physical man in his limitations, and short duration, is to have an eternal relationship with an eternal God, and God with man, certain protocols must be followed. I will attempt to uncover some of the mysteries that God has placed upon mankind and perhaps help some people understand those protocols better.

Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: Romans 16:25

God reveals His mysteries to man in accordance to man’s level of acceptance and willingness to participate with Him and His character. As I have said before, it is not within the comprehension of man to understand that which is outside his physical reality. Man can only function within the limits placed on him by God. God encompasses all things while man, on the other hand, only experiences what God allows within man’s domain.

Mar 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all [these] things are done in parables:


The ability of man to adapted to God’s nature unfolds in his effort to demonstrate his created likeness of God. Kept in darkness, exposed to light, and left to contemplate his own destiny, has left man to his own explorations and resolve. Has Satan turned man’s mind inward in a attempt to mask God’s wrath or is it a matter of man’s arrogance which is part of his own divine nature? The fact is, Satan cannot turn man away from God. Man has to make the decision.

Gal 6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

2Th 2:11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie :12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

So, God will give the unrighteous over to his/her own delusions. The thing is, if you chase a rabbet long enough you will catch him. If you turn away from God long enough, He will let you go. Now, that’s just plain sad.


Who is Man, and why was he created in the first place?

And God created man, in His own image and after His own kind. As an extension of Himself like Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Notice, He said, “Let us make man in Our image after our likeness.” This means God made man in accordance to His own nature as an image of His nature. He wasn’t just talking about a mirror image, but man was to have depth in the characteristics of His total being. When Jesus said,’ if you hath seen me, ye have also seen my Father’ was he speaking on our behalf also? If God is the creation He is also the creature and physically known then by its’ image.

John 14:8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us.
:9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?


Ps 144:3 Jehovah, what is man that Thou knowest him? Son of man, that Thou esteem him?
Ge 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeper upon the earth. 27So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.


But why did God make man?

Php 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

So, God created the universe and everything in it, for His own pleasure. In doing so, He wanted a creature to converse with. He created an extension of Himself so He may experience man’s consciousness as he went about replenishing the earth, subdue it and have dominion over it. But, why go through all this trouble? Why not make man like the lesser creatures, docile and submissive?

Revelation 4:1Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created,

Ah, so there you have it again, man was created for God’s own pleasure, and to share with God as He went about revealing Himself. Ah Ha! Now it’s starting to make since. What an honor! Helping God to experience His revealing of Himself, WOW! God gave man certain responsibilities and duties so man could develop in complementing His design. God does not need man in His ultimate plan but in order to experience His own handiwork, He elected to actively take part within His creation by making a creature of Himself, like Himself and for Himself. And why man? Because it pleasures Him to do so.

Man (Adam) chose to turn away from God’s instruction in the garden and God’s pleasure turned into disappointment. Adam took a probability and validated its reality For thousands of years man has endured tribulation because of one man’s (Adam’s) disobedience and man’s turning toward self before God.

Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 13(For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.

It seems sin was only a probability but was not active until Adam willfully disobeyed God.

So, here mankind is, caught in the sins of their forefathers. And, while trying to reconcile to God for the transgressions of their forefathers, they become mired down in their own disobediences.

While this writing is directed at how far man can go in his relationships, responsibility and abilities . . . it also must deal with opposing issues as well. The question of Christian’s success in worldly matters will come to view later.

God, Creation, Man, Principals and other orders all become intertwined in a net of laws and dispositions in a foundation of actuality. Where Man fits into God’s creation will a focus as we study the driving forces that involve man within the world. Does mankind simply choose to exhibit God through religion, or is religion man’s attempt at regulating self? The early church and to an extent present day churches, use religion to keep man under control. In the early Church, the fear of God kept people subdued, now God is portrayed as Love and man, goes willingly toward his/her own destruction.

Even though Christian’s were given the promise of God and Jesus sealed our fate with his blood, many look to the false promises of the world for satisfaction. The world is the reality of preference because it has been accepted as mankind’s awareness. When a Christian accepts the world as their provider, they also accept the possibility of the evil that it possesses. Evil is no more than a concept until allowed by man. Man is the only creature that can bring the principle of evil into force. Satan cannot bring evil onto man and God won’t. Man has to be the contributor to his own fate.

Earth is that part of creation that is within man’s power and under his dominion. But, it still belongs to God, is under God’s laws and is a gift to man. Earth was not given to Satan, it was entrusted to mankind as its’ caretaker. Satan only reveals principles of evil upon a earthly realm. Heaven, on the other hand, is that part of creation that exclusively belongs to God and only He has dominion over it. Man is invited into it only after he has made reconciliation to God through the blood of Jesus Christ. Man is not capable of entering Heaven on his own, he must show repentance to Jesus Christ and be born as a new person in Jesus, to be accepted, then upon physical death he/she can be resurrected into Heaven.

In Conclusion
Creation responds to the will of God alone. The world cannot find its purpose within itself. This makes a relationship between God and the world essential because all things find their reality in God. God equips all there is, and the world acknowledges His presence in their freely receiving of it. The world centers in God, not because it is illusory, but because it was created as a relationship for God’s pleasure. God is revealing Himself by projecting Himself through His creation, and mankind is an intricate part of His design.