Not fading away
Happiness is not fading. Everyone has their own definition of happiness (“5 of 10 are unhappy at work”, Gulf News, February 13). It is a state of mind which gives a sense of peace, satisfaction and helps people lead a meaningful life. It is clichéd but it is a known fact that money cannot buy happiness, yet we continue to believe otherwise. We have all the money and can buy everything that we can think of, however, happiness still eludes us. We can dine at the most expensive of restaurants, wear the most beautiful clothes, drive fancy cars and live in beautiful homes, yet we are still searching. Looking at a beautiful picture, listening to music, sharing a meal together or having a workout can create happiness for some and evokes some special feelings. I think happiness is just this everyday life and not some feeling that we think is faraway. There is so much talk about finding happiness that the new-age gurus talk about and write books about. We start thinking that the common feeling of satisfaction is not happiness, and it is something we must look for in another place. Happiness is not fading, it is here in us, with us, and just needs to be recognised and accepted.
From Ms Anita R
UAE
Genetically modified world?
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s) used for food will be the future and it will resolve food scarcity in the world (“GMOs can help meet future food security requirements”, Gulf News, February 12). As reports say 18 million farmers in 26 countries grew such modified crops. These crops can resist lots of diseases and withstand harsh environments. Now, climate change is a big challenge and genetically modified food can, to an extent, survive and yield good varieties, within such a short period of time. The usage of pesticides can be reduced. Various crops are available in the international market today. India has a legislation for GM crops, and few serious questions are yet to be answered, including whether to follow Codex, an intergovernmental body responsible for developing standards, codes of practice guidelines and recommendations that constitute the international food code. At present GM products that are sold in the international market have passed all safety assessments. However, we should focus on the risk factors in relation to environmental impact and health hazards they can have.
From Mr Eappen Elias
Dubai
Playing countries like puppets
Pakistan is now included in the hit list of the US (“US pushes motion to put Pakistan on global terrorist-financing watchlist”, Gulf News, February 14). Things are unfolding as expected, subsequent to the realisation that Pakistan’s deeds and the aspirations of the US are not concurrent anymore. On one hand the US needs Pakistan to do more to curb the menace of terrorism. Credibility is at stake and this diversity in objectivity has crippled the diplomacy between them to an all-time low. I think Pakistan is in a dilemma and cannot do anything substantial to improve the relationship with the US, given the influence of religious bodies and the military on the government. Moreover, Pakistan’s choice to make China their ‘trusted friend’ angered the US and escalated the situation. Even though generosity from the US cannot be expected, China’s role is going to be very crucial for Pakistan in coming days.
From Mr Girish R Edathitta
UAE
Winking at fortune
She has good expressions on her face and this will fetch her good fortune in her acting profession (“Kerala ‘eyebrow girl’ turns instant internet sensation”, Gulf News, February 14). It’s always good to see good expressive faces. I will go to see this movie only for this girl. From Ms Nayana Patil
UAE
Facebook comment
Overnight sensation
I find it amazing how things go viral on the internet. I can never determine what it is about certain content that is shared, which manages to resonate with the public. The girl in the music video became famous overnight, thanks to her 10-second part in a song. I think you just have to be lucky because today, thanks to social media, anyone can be famous.
From Ms Rita Raj
Sharjah
No room for bad mouthing
Indian Prime Minister bashing the Congress party in the Lok Sabha for their past deeds have already been spoken and written about umpteen times over the years. At this juncture, it is irrelevant, out of context and will not serve any purpose. Reeling out exaggerated statistics of achievements has become a habit of the state and centre governments. Instead of resorting to these cheap gimmicks and apparently playing to the gallery, Modi should address the numerous problems faced by the people which were raised in the Indian Parliament and offered proper solutions. His speeches can be dubbed only as an exercise in futility.
From Mr Chellappah Periyasamy
Bur Dubai
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