The news was wrongly posted...Long life to Celine Dion

Celine Dion is dead...rest in peace one of the world's vocalist.

For years, couples have dedicated a single "ring" finger to romance when any other digit would do. A case of left side, strong side? Not according to history.

In medieval times, getting caught scribbling with one's left hand could earn accusations of being possessed and, during the Spanish Inquisition, lefties were more likely to be tortured or killed. In fact, the aversion touched many cultures, from the long-standing taboo in Islamic countries against eating and drinking with one’s left hand, to the expectation in ancient Japan that any wife who didn’t favor her right could be legally divorced on the spot, no questions asked. So why do we favor a finger on a cursed hand to symbolize lasting love?

Past perception wasn't all bad. The union between marriage and the now-standard ring placement can be traced back to second-century Egyptians who falsely believed that “a certain most delicate nerve” began in the fourth left finger and stretched directly to the heart, according to the Greek scholar Appian. Centuries later, the Romans came to a similar conclusion. In place of a nerve, they were convinced that a vena amoris—or “lover’s vein”—connected this digit with the blood-pumping organ.

During the Roman engagement process, a well-off suitor who could afford a ring would slip it over his bride-to-be’s fourth finger. Thus, he’d always have a symbolic grip around her lover’s vein. The modern world may have adopted that practice from the Romans.
Still, others argue that reverence for the fourth finger begun as an early Christian ritual. While crossing themselves in an Orthodox Church, worshipers are expected to join the thumb with the index and middle fingers. Historians contend that the group represented the father, son, and Holy Ghost when placed together, while the “ring” finger signified earthly love, making it the perfect location for a spouse’s wedding ring.

Until the seventeenth century, Orthodox couples normally wore their rings on the right hand (an extremity that’s associated with strength) and most Europeans of all faiths followed suit. But during the Reformation in 1549, an English Bishop and Protestant reformer named Thomas Cranmer used wedding rings as a way to break from tradition. That year, he published The Book of Common Prayer, which instructs couples to ditch a centuries-old practice in favor of slipping their wedding rings over the left fourth finger. Before long, husbands and wives throughout the continent were doing so.



Source:msn news

One of the biggest talking points of the Club World Cup has been the use of Video Assistant Refereeing (VAR). Football lovers I am curious to hear where the fans stand on such a controversial new measure.
Real Madrid's players and coach have made their frustrations clear, but the truth is that criticism of VAR in its current form shouldn't mean people throw out the idea altogether.

Pros
What has been on display at the Club World Cup isn't the final version of VAR, but rather, it is something far from it. Football has the need to evolve and use technology, just as has been done in tennis, basketball, and a host of other sports. This trial period is clearly worth it if it prevents unworthy champions from being given the title due to human error.

Cons
The confusion and standing around broke the flow of the match. The system hasn't been perfected, and quite simply it didn't work. Football should be enjoyed like it always has been, without interruptions. The decision making of humans is an integral part of the game. If even after watching replays, people can't agree, something like this is just going to bring even more outrage.

What do you think?

Before you find who to MARRY,
In prayers you must TARRY,
God's perfect will you must find and CARRY,
Never in any way be in a HURRY,
Else, you'll be hearing, chai! SORRY.

Before you find who to MARRY,
In prayers you must TARRY,
God's perfect will you must find and CARRY,
Never in any way be in a HURRY,
Else, you'll be hearing, chai! SORRY.

Your blood group type can reveal your personality, that’s the bright and dark aspects of your personality.
Let’s have a look at what blood type you possess, the qualities of a person each with in respect to his or her blood type and which blood type is compatible to another.

Blood Type O:-
Type O’s are outgoing, and very social. They are initiators, although they don’t always finish what they start. Creative and popular, they love to be the center of attention and appear very self-confident.

Blood Type A
While outwardly calm, they have such high standards (perfectionists) that they tend to be balls of nerves on the inside. Type A’s are the most artistic of the blood groups. They can be shy, are conscientious, trustworthy, and sensitive.

Blood Type B
Goal oriented and strong minded, type B’s will start a task and continue it until completed, and completed well. Type B’s are the individualists of the blood group categories and find their own way in life.

Blood Type AB
Type AB’s are the split personalities of the blood groups. They can be both outgoing and shy, confident and timid. While responsible, too much responsibility will cause a problem. They are trustworthy and like to help others.

Compatibility by Blood Groups
A is most compatible with A and AB
B is most compatible with B and AB
AB is most compatible with AB, B, A and O
O is most compatible with O, and AB

Blood Type A
Best Traits: Conservative, introverted, reserved, patient and punctual. Perfectionists.
Worst Traits: Obsessive, stubborn, self-conscious and uptight.
Famous As: George H. W. Bush, Ayumi Hamasaki, O.J. Simpson, Britney Spears, Alan Alda, Adolf Hitler, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Jet Li, Maki Nomiya, Rick James

Blood Type B
Best Traits: Creative, passionate, animal loving, optimistic, flexible and individualistic.
Worst Traits: Forgetful, irresponsible, and self-centered.
Famous Bs: Akira Kurosawa, Jack Nicholson, Luciano Pavarotti, Tom Selleck, Mia Farrow, Paul McCartney, Leonardo DiCaprio, Vince Young

Blood Type AB
Best Traits: Cool, controlled, rational, introverted and empathic.
Worst Traits: Aloof, critical, indecisive and unforgiving.
Famous ABs: John F. Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Mick Jagger, Thomas Edison, Bob Sapp, Miyavi, Jackie Chan, Ken Kitamura


Blood Type O
Best Traits: Ambitious, athletic, robust and self-confident. Natural leaders.
Worst Traits: Arrogant, vain, insensitive and ruthless.
Famous Os: Al Capone, Gerald Ford, Mikhail Gorbachev, John Gotti, Crystal Kay, Queen Elizabeth II, John Lennon, Paul Newman, Elvis Presley, Ronald Reagan

Blood Type A – Tend to be cooperative, sensitive, clever, passionate and smart. Often bottling up anxiety in order to get along with others, they may be held in their emotions until they explode. Many are tense, impatient and unable to sleep well. While they are capable of leadership positions, they may not take them because the stress is not good for their tightly wired systems. In Japan many “A”’s are in research. They have roles in discovering more about and refining science, economics, manufacturing, etc. Their research on microflora and other areas of medicine is some of the best and most meticulous in the world. They are perfectionists to say the least. Blood type A’s tend to have more sensitive constitutions. Too much stress weakens their immunity more quickly than other blood types. Low stomach acid is common among blood type A’s even from birth, so special care should be taken when eating animal proteins.

Blood Type B – Blood type B individuals tend to be balanced: thoughtful like A’s and yet ambitious like O’s. They are empathetic, easily understanding others’ points of view, yet often hesitating to challenge or confront. Chameleon-like and flexible, they make good friends.

Blood Type AB – Tend to be very charming and popular. They don’t sweat the small stuff and can be seen as spiritual and even at times a bit “flaky”. Only about 2 – 5% of the population are blood type AB. There is never a dull moment in a AB’s life, so if you find one for a friend, consider yourself lucky! You’ll enjoy some exciting times together!
Like blood type A’s, AB’s react to stress poorly. They are stronger and more active than type A’s, but need to pay attention to stress levels so that they don’t compromise their immunity.
Sometimes it is difficult to be an AB. AB’s don’t like to fit in anyone else’s “box”. If they feel too confined, they’ll break out of that box and do things their own way. When it comes to food choices and AB must discover when they are more B-like or A-like. For example, dairy foods like milk kefir can be excellent for them or not good at all.

Blood Type O – Tend to be loners or leaders and are intuitive, focused, self-reliant and daring. They handle stress better than other blood types and have strong immune systems, a well-developed physique and a physically active nature. Blood type O’s tend to have sluggish blood flow and feel better with vigorous exercise for about an hour each day.

So what’s your blood type? Do you think it’s true?

Source: Waking Times

Tears more than rain drops keep dropping from my eyes, each time I watched the video clip of the tragedy that befell the late Monica Onokah. According to the reports, it was learnt that she was involved in a fatal accident which happened at Mile 2 bus stop by Festac town in Lagos. A container truck fell on the said lady and crushed her legs in the process as she was about boarding a bike on the road, the lady tripped while trying to run, and the container fell on her legs. It’s so debilitating that such a beautiful, hardworking lady, was crushed and sent to early grave as a result of a container truck that plummeted on her.

It saddens me that her case was not the first, lives have been lost due to the carelessness and recklessness of these container truck drivers, whom I believe could be under the influence of toxic substance while driving or probably not taking time to ensure that their containers are properly tied to their truck using a chain and grab hook, before plying the road. We’ve read and witnessed several others who have lost their lives as a result of the incessant falling of containers.

For how long are we going to keep quiet and fold our hands? Victims of these ugly scenario may not be a member of our family, they may not be a friend but let me state here that, they have family members, these late victims could be bread winners, they could be shouldering so many responsibilities, they could be playing key roles that are not just within the confinement of their families but in the society at large…how long will this unforeseen cataclysm continue?

I can recall vividly that directives were given by the former governor of Lagos state (Babatunde Raji Fashola), that container truck drivers should ply the road at a stipulated time, but as it is now, it shows that such directives are not obeyed let to talk of implementing them. Again, I asked myself, could it be that the various government authorities don’t listen to news or could it be an “I don’t care attitude?” Well, I am not in the position to judge, but whatever may be the case, I feel it’s high time these menace is mitigated. Bearing in mind that the risk these containers possess is high. I feel setting up a Monitoring and Control Agency for container drivers will go a long way to reduce the death rate or accidents on the road. Failure of compliance by these drivers, should result to payment of fine or more stringent punishments.

Life is short, there is no point making someone’s life shorter due to laxity on the part of these container truck drivers. Inasmuch as we cherish our lives, we should bear in mind that no one knows who the next person will be, it’s about time we speak out, watching that lady die in excruciating pains is unbearable. May the soul of the departed rest in peace.

If there is any time to speak and act, then the time in now...Enough is enough!

Prof. Wole Soyinka…We are patiently waiting for you to shred your GREEN CARD ooo

Oh Lord! Hear our outmost EXPRESSION…
Our nation is now experiencing economic RECESSION,
Our Naira suffering monetary DEPRECIATION,
As a result, it has led many to DEPRESSION.
We’ve lost our global IMPRESSION;
The poor masses are filled with AGGRESSION,
The promised change is now a DIGRESSION;
But the reason for this OPPRESSION,
May be because of our TRANSGRESSION;
Show us mercy, as we make these INTERCESSION.

Oh Lord! Hear our outmost EXPRESSION…
Our nation is now experiencing economic RECESSION,
Our Naira suffering monetary DEPRECIATION,
As a result, it has led many to DEPRESSION.
We’ve lost our global IMPRESSION;
The poor masses are filled with AGGRESSION,
The promised change is now a DIGRESSION;
But the reason for this OPPRESSION,
May be because of our TRANSGRESSION;
Show us mercy, as we make these INTERCESSION.

We are all saddled with waking up early and coming back late at night except when we are on vacations or there is public holidays, the business men and women are not left out. Yes, the economy is in recession, recession or not, we should be informed that the best time to manage stress is NOW!

Below are A - Z tips for stress management.

Always take time for yourself, at least 30 minutes per day.
Be aware of your own stress meter; know when to step back and cool down.
Concentrate on controlling your own situation, without controlling everybody else.
Daily exercise will burn off the stress chemical.
Eat lots of fresh fruits, veggies, bread and water, give your body the best for it to perform at its best.
Forgive others, don’t hold grudges, be tolerant – not everyone is as capable as you.
Gain perspective on things, how important is the issue.
Hugs, smiles and laughter; have fun and don’t be afraid to share your feelings with others.
Identify stress and plan to deal with them better next time.
Judge your own performance realistically; don’t set goals out of your own reach.
Keep a positive attitude, your outlook will influence outcomes and the way others treat you.
Limit alcohol, drugs and other stimulants, they affect your perception and behavior.
Manage money well, seek advice and save at least 10 percent of what you earn.
No is a word you need to learn to use without feeling guilty.
Outdoor activates with friends and family, can be a great a way to relax.
Play your favorite music rather than watching television.
Quit smoking; it is stressing your body daily, not to mention killing you too.
Relationships; nurture and enjoy them, learn to listen more and talk less.
Sleep well, with a firm mattress and a supportive pillow; don’t overheat yourself and allow plenty of ventilation.
Treat yourself once a week with a massage, dinner out, the movies: Moderation is the key.
Understand things from the other person’s point of view.
Verify information from the source before exploding.
Worry less, it really does not get things completely better.
eXpress; make a regular retreat to your favorite space, make holidays part of your yearly plan and budget.
Yearly goal setting; plan what you want to achieve based on your priorities in your career, relationships, etc.
Zest for life; each day is a gift, smile and be thankful that you are a part of the bigger picture.

In summary, according to web largest resource STRESS is defined as

Situations
That
Release
Emergency
Signals or
Stimuli

The European and UEFA Super Cup champions are one of the seeded sides in today's draw, which is to be held at Monaco's Foro Grimaldi (18:00 CEST…5:00 PM in Nigeria).

The European and UEFA Super Cup champions will begin their quest to become the first side to successfully defend the Champions League title under the competition's current format on 13 or 14 September, whilst the final will take place on 3 June 2017 at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

In the group stage draw, Real Madrid for example cannot play another Spanish side, nor can they face any of the other clubs from Pot 1. Each of the teams have been placed in the respective pots based on the UEFA club coefficient system, barring Pot 1, which is made up of the winners of the major leagues and the defending European champions.

The pots

Pot 1: Real Madrid (Spain), Barcelona (Spain), Leicester City (England), Bayern Munich (Germany), Juventus (Italy), Benfica (Portugal), Paris Saint-Germain (France), CSKA Moscow (Russia).

Pot 2: Atletico Madrid (Spain), Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Arsenal (England), Manchester City (England), Sevilla (Spain), Porto (Portugal), Napoli (Italy), Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)

Pot 3: Basel (Switzerland), Tottenham Hotspur (England), Dynamo Kiev (Ukraine), Lyon (France), PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands), Sporting Lisbon (Portugal), Club Brugge (Belgium), Borussia Monchengladbach (Germany)

Pot 4: Celtic (Scotland), Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia), Monaco (France), Besiktas (Turkey), Legia Warsaw (Poland), Ludogorets Razgrad (Bulgaria), FC Copenhagen (Denmark), Rostov (Russia)

President Buhari has banned the use of souvenirs like notepads, bags, pens etc. during official government functions. Punch reports that he also directed that all printing of books that have no importance to the citizens or government institutions be banned.
Sources say the move is in line with the Federal Government’s drive to properly utilize government funds. The President took the decisions based on the recommendation of the Efficiency Unit – a team which he set up to work out ways on how the government can save money.
According to the unit, “The directive which is a recognition of the fact that in a period of lean financial resources unnecessary expenditure on overheads such souvenirs are luxuries that the government must eliminate. “This will enable release of funds for infrastructure and services such as health and education that would have direct positive impact on the well-being of the citizenry and promote economic development. “The directive also contained specific guidelines that would reduce the cost of printing Invitation Cards, Programme of events, Brochures, Folders and Note Pads.
“Among the guidelines are that they should be in black and white and limited to only one page and in the case of Brochures they should be streamlined to contain only essential information.”
Reports say the team has also saved money for the Federal Government in the area of travelling.
On Thursday, April 6, 2016, Festus Akanbi, the Media Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, announced that the Federal Government has banned all officials from flying first class when embarking on official trips._Folami David

BAN this BAN that..Hmmm, which way Nigeria

She whispered into her ear, "Vicky, I will be coming to your place this evening by 5:00pm." On hearing that, Vicky was startled probably because Clara is an introvert who hardly visits, more so, she was not a cater-cousin to Vicky. Vicky didn't fathom the reason for Clara's visit to her place, "probably she has pressing issues to share with me," she soliloquized.

Vicky was seeing a movie when she heard a knock on her door, who is that? she asked. Clara replied, "it's me, please open the door." On hearing her voice, Vicky hurried to the door and opened it. They greeted each other and a glass of juice was served. Both the conversation and juice were warm and chilled.

The evening began to grow long, still Clara perhaps overly eager to continue the gist, talked on and on about her family, her male admirers, the difficulties she experienced in settling down in her new apartment, the trials of finding a hospital and so on. No matter how many times the hostess yawned or failed to reply, Clara had more to say. Suddenly, the visiting Clara began to yawn, still she made no motion toward leaving. Vicky was frustrated with the ugly scenario. She was forced to ask Clara, don't you think it's about time you start leaving? you know the days are evil, you could be kidnapped. Clara replied vehemently, "No weapon formed against me shall prosper..." hmmm "a thousand shall fall at my side and ten thousand on my left..." ok o, Vicky replied.

Oh my gosh! its 9:00pm Vicky exclaimed. She stood to her feet with a wide stretch of her arms, she said, "well Clara, it's past my bed time, I'm going to bed." Clara still couldn't read the hand writing on the wall. Ha! Clara use your encephalon!

The Bible is so clear on visitation, "Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbor's house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee," (Proverbs 25:17)

The art of being a good guest is knowing when to leave.

I was 9 years old when Nelson Mandela was sent to prison on Robben Island. As a boy, I learned about him in school, and I remember seeing reports about the anti-Apartheid movement on the evening news. Decades later, I got to meet him and work with him. In person he was even more inspiring than I had imagined. His humility and courage left an impression that I will never forget.

So it was a special honor to be invited to give the Nelson Mandela Lecture in Pretoria, South Africa. I eagerly accepted the invitation and quickly began working on my remarks. I decided to share my optimism about Africa’s future—to explain why I think the continent has the potential to change faster in the next generation than any continent ever has.

It’s because Africa is the world’s youngest continent, and youth can go hand in hand with a special dynamism. I was 20 years old when Paul Allen and I started Microsoft. The entrepreneurs driving startup booms in Johannesburg, Lagos, and Nairobi are just as young, and the thousands of businesses they’re creating are already changing lives across the continent. The potential will only grow as the digital revolution brings more advances in artificial intelligence and robotics.
But positive change across Africa won’t happen automatically. The real returns will come only if Africans can unleash this talent for innovation in all of the continent’s growing population. That depends on whether all of its young people are given the opportunity to thrive.
It is still an open question, and it is the crux of my speech, which I gave today at the University of Pretoria. It was an honor to give this lecture, and I’m grateful to the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the university for inviting me.

The first time I spoke with Nelson Mandela was in 1994, when he called to ask me to help fund South Africa’s first multi-racial election. It’s not every day that Nelson Mandela calls, so I remember it well. I was running Microsoft at the time and thinking about software most of my waking hours. But I admired Nelson Mandela, I knew the election was historic, and I did what I could to help.
I had been to Africa for the first time just the year before, when my wife, Melinda, and I travelled in East Africa on vacation. Obviously, we knew parts of Africa were very poor, but being on the continent turned what had been an abstraction into an injustice we could not ignore.
Faced with such glaring inequity, we started thinking about how we could use our resources to make a difference. Within a few years, we established our foundation. It was when I started coming to Africa regularly for the foundation that I came to know Nelson Mandela personally. He was both an advisor and an inspiration.

One topic that Nelson Mandela came back to over and over again in his lifetime was the power of youth. I agree with Mandela about young people, and that is one reason I’m optimistic about the future of Africa. Demographically, Africa is the world’s youngest continent, and its youth can be the source of a special dynamism.

Economists talk about the demographic dividend and the potential for Africa’s burgeoning youth population to accelerate economic growth. But for me, the most important thing about young people is the way their minds work. Young people are better than old people at driving innovation, because they are not locked in by the limits of the past. I was 19 when I founded Microsoft. Steve Jobs was 21 when he started Apple. Mark Zuckerberg was 19 when he created Facebook.
So I’m inspired by the young African entrepreneurs driving startup booms in the Silicon Savannahs from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Lagos and Nairobi.

The real returns, though, will come if we can multiply this talent for innovation by the whole of Africa’s growing youth population. To make that a reality, all of Africa’s young people must have the opportunity to thrive.
If we invest in the right things—if we make sure the basic needs of Africa’s young people are taken care of—then they can change the future and life on this continent will improve faster than it ever has.
In my view, there are four things that will determine Africa’s future: health and nutrition, education, economic opportunity, and good governance.

When people aren’t healthy, they can’t turn their attention to things like education, working and raising a family. Conversely, when health improves, life improves by every measure.
I’m especially concerned about HIV. Africa’s youngest generation are entering the age when they are most at risk of HIV. We need to get more out of the HIV prevention methods we have now –while developing better solutions like an effective vaccine and easier-to-use medicines that people are more likely to use consistently.

Nutrition is another critical area of focus for Africa. Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies rob millions of the continent’s children of their physical and cognitive potential. Fortunately, there are cost-effective solutions like making sure mothers’ breastfeed their infants, enriching cooking oil, sugar, and flour with important vitamins and minerals, and breeding staple crops to maximize their nutritional content. We need to make sure the people most at risk know about and have access to these solutions.
Second, we need new thinking and new tools to make sure a high-quality education is available to every child. Educational technology using mobile phones has the potential to help students build foundational skills while giving teachers better feedback and support at the touch of a button. Governments also need to invest in high-quality public universities for the largest number of qualified students to launch the next generation of scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, and government leaders.

Third, we need to create economic opportunities to channel the energy and ideas of Africa’s youth. Through the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program, countries have a framework for transforming agriculture from a struggle for survival into a thriving business opportunity. But the investment needs to follow, so that young Africans have the means to create the thriving agriculture they envision.
Africa also needs more electrical power to increase productivity. In East Africa especially, governments should invest in hydro and geothermal sources of energy, which are both reliable and renewable, as soon as possible. The immediate priority is for governments to get tougher about managing their electrical grids so they’re producing as much power as possible.

Fourth, countries can benefit from enhancing fiscal governance. Advances in digital technology is one way that governments can deliver services more efficiently.
It’s clear to everyone how big and complicated the challenges are. But Africa has proven its resilience and ingenuity time and again, and there are millions of people, especially young people, who are eager to get to work.

The future depends on the people of Africa working together to lay a foundation so that Africa’s young people have the opportunities they deserve. This is the future that Nelson Mandela dreamed of and it’s the future that the youth of Africa deserve.

The effects of anger cannot be exaggerated. Your temper is like a fire, it gets very destructive when it gets out of control. Loved ones have been hurt, innocent ones have been on the receiving end of this terrible and horrible foe called “anger.” At one point in our lives we have been guilty of wrongly expressing ourselves at the advent of an argument or debate. Most employees have been fired as a result of an uncontrolled temper, families have been dissolved because of the incessant hurts they go through as a result of anger.
One of the most common expression used to describe the situation is “fly off the handle.” This phrase refers to the head of the hammer coming loose from its handle as the carpenter attempts to use it. Three things happen as a result;

First, the hammer becomes useless – it’s no longer good for work. In like manner, when a person losses his temper, he often loses his or her effectiveness. Anything he or she says may not be taken serious and the person is likely to be unproductive.

Second, the hammer head – twirling out of control is likely to cause damage on anything it hits. The person who loses his or her temper causes damage even if he or she doesn’t realize it, perhaps physically to people or object on his or her way and also causes emotional pains to the victims.
Third, the repair of both the hammer and the resulting damage takes time. The individual who loses his temper may recover quickly, but the victim of a hot temper rarely recovers immediately.

Enough of broken homes, enough of heartbreaks, enough of damages caused by anger! Keep your temper under check not just today but always. Issues can be dissolved amicably, without hurt. Marriages can be saved when spouses apply wisdom in matters concerning them. Someone said and I quote, “Knowledge is knowing what to say, wisdom is knowing whether to say it or not.”

Anger can be summarized as;
A
Negative
Gesture
Expressed
Regrettably.

WHAT’S YOUR SIGN? 14 Astrological Terms Defined.

1. HOROSCOPE: - A horoscope is an astrological diagram that depicts the relative position of the planets and the signs of the zodiac at a given time, such as a person’s time of birth. Astrologist believe that a person’s horoscope reveals elements of personal character and can be used to foretell events and offer advice for future actions the person should take. The term is also often used to refer to the predictions themselves. Horoscope comes from the Greek horoskoposa, a combination of h ra, “time, hour,” and skopos, “observer, watcher.”

2. ZODIAC: - One of the most important elements of a horoscope is a person’s astrological sign or zodiac sign. The word zodiac is a Greek word meaning, “the circle of the figures or signs of animals,” is belt of the cosmos that centers on the ecliptic, or the plane of the earth’s orbit around the sun, and is divided into twelve segments, sometimes called houses. Each segment, or house is named for the constellation it is associated with. The segments of the zodiac do not overlap with their namesake constellations as well as they once did, but most modern astrologists still use the traditional names with the fixed date ranges of the zodiac signs.

Let’s explore the approximate dates and symbolism tied to the twelve astrological sign…

3. CAPRICORN: - If you were born between December 22 and January 19, you’re Capricorn. A Capricorn is dedicated to hard work and pragmatism. A Capricorn strives to be at the top of his/her field and reap rewards of success, though the determination of those born under the sign can make them seem domineering or egoistical.

4. AQUARIUS: - Born between January 20 and February 18. Those born under this fixed air sign are said to be visionaries, who want nothing more than to make the world a better place. This desire often leads them to aid others through philanthropy and humanitarian work. Though they can be impatient with those who don’t see their vision, their ingenuity and generosity earn them numerous friends and allies.

5. PISCES: - Someone with a birthday between February 19 and March 20 is a Pisces. A Pisces which is Latin for ‘fish’ is associated with a story of Aphodite and her son, Eros, who jumped into a river and transformed into a fish to survive the wrath of the monster Typhon. As the mutable water sign, a Pisces is said to be highly intuitive and well –equipped to ‘go with the flow.’ Astrologist say that those born under this sign are largely focused on their inner journeys and often prefer daydreaming to dealing with the world around them.

6. ARIES: - Those born between March 21 and April 19, are natural born leader and highly creative. They are typically depicted as bold and somewhat head strong.


7. TAURUS: -Those born between April 20 and May 20, are admired for their patience and stability.

8. GEMINI: - If you were born between May 21 and June 20. Gemini is a Latin word for ‘twins’ and according to Astrologers they are intellectually inclined and they love to talk. Their dual nature manifests in their ability to see both sides of any issue and reputation for fickleness.

9. CANCER: - Born between June 21, and July 22, they value home and family above anything else, and tend to be domestic and nurturing. A Cancer can be hard to break out of his or her shell, according to astrologist, those born under this sign are said to be private and highly emotional individuals.

10. LEO: - If your birthday falls between July 23 and August 22, according to astrologist Leos are said to enthusiastic and ambitious. They love to be recognized and respected by others but their fiery temper and desire lead, can earn them enemies.

11. VIRGO: - Born between August 23 and September 22, they are said to be modest and logical and they are often recognized for their great attention to detail, industrious and efficient way of tackling problems. However, they’re sometimes accused of being too picky and critical.

12. LIBRA: - If you were born between September 23 and October 22, then you value balance and harmony. Astrologist says that Libras are master of small talk and they get along with others. They work best when paired with a team mate, coworker or spouse.

13. SCORPIO: - Born between October 23 and November 21. A story was told about Orion the hunter, who was killed by a giant scorpion after bragging that he could kill all the beasts on earth. The gods placed both Orion and the Scorpion in the heavens to honor their strength. According to Astrologist a Scorpio is passionate – sometimes described as intense – and like to feel in control of his or her destiny. Those born under this sign are said to be natural born detectives, as they are talented at perceiving and investigating.

14. SAGITTARIUS: - If you were born between November 22 and December 21 is a Sagittarius. They are said to big picture thinkers who value truth and well – thought – out points, and are interested in philosophy and religion.

THREE STORIES: FAITH, TRUST AND HOPE…
In a suburb close to the Sahara desert, the villagers have yearned and prayed for rain but it never rained. They all wept bitterly, because their plants couldn’t survive the harsh weather, the only river they have was on the verge of drying up, drought was right before them. The leaders consulted the gods of the village on behalf of the village but their efforts were in vain, these got almost everybody annoyed because they were helpless and hapless.

There was a pastor in this same village who was highly respected, on his own he has been interceding that God should have mercy and send down rain. Few days later, the leaders were informed about the pastor. They summoned him and asked him, “We’ve heard so much about you, what can be done to salvage the situation (drought) on ground?” The pastor laughed and replied, “my leaders, with God all things are possible.” They were stunned. They murmured amongst themselves but he was as calm as ever. He went ahead to tell them that, they should agree on a day to pray for the village.

The day finally arrived. All the villagers decided to pray for rain. On the day of prayer it was only the pastor that came with an umbrella, the rest didn’t come with theirs. Few minutes after the prayers, cloud covered and it rained like never before…That is FAITH.
Many times we’ve one way or the other tossed a baby in the air, that baby might fear or even laugh. Has it ever occurred to you that the baby seldom scream especially when it is his father that tosses the baby in the air? The baby laughs because he knows his father will catch him…That is TRUST.

Right from the day we were born till date, we’ve all had the course to sleep and wake up. Most of us especially in this part of the country were due to the unpredictable traffic situating in the state, have to set alarm for the next day to enable us wake up on time. It is unfortunate that some cross over to eternity even when they set alarm. My point is this, every night we go to bed, we have no assurance to wake up alive the next day but still we set alarm for tomorrow…That is HOPE.

As you’re reading this, I want to assure you that no condition is permanent. The fact that you’re alive means there is hope, live one day at a time. Many have gone but you have a chance to make your life count. Yes, the economy is bad, inflation on the increase, crime rate increasing, so many troubles, pains and negative news all around but wait, you don’t have to contemplate suicide let alone committing suicide…

Always remember that FAITH is;

Full
Assurance
In
The
Heart that everything will be OK.

TRUST is;

Total
Reliance
Under a
Safe
Territory.

HOPE is;

Have
Only
Positive
Expectations.

He deserves to be congratulated

A COUPLES HEARTBREAK

A boy was born to a couple after eleven years of marriage. They were a loving couple and the boy was the apple of their eyes. When the boy was around two years old, one morning the husband saw a medicine bottle open. He was late for work so he asked the wife to cap the bottle and keep it in the cupboard. The mother, preoccupied in the kitchen, totally forgot the matter.

The boy saw the bottle and playfully went to the bottle and, fascinated with its color, drank it all. It happened to be a poisonous medicine meant for adults in small dosages. When the child collapsed, the mother hurried him to the hospital, where he died. The mother was stunned. She was terrified how to face her husband. When the distraught father came to the hospital and saw the dead child, he looked at his wife and uttered just four words.

What do you think were the four words? The husband just said "I Love You Darling"
The husband's totally unexpected reaction is proactive behavior. The child is dead. He can never be brought back to life. There is no point in finding fault with the mother. Besides, if only he have taken time to keep the bottle away, this will not have happened. No
point in attaching blame. She had also lost her only child. What she needed at that moment was consolation and sympathy from the husband. That is what he gave her.

Sometimes we spend time asking who is responsible or who to blame, whether in a relationship, in a job or with the people we know. We miss out some warmth in human relationship in giving each other support. After all, shouldn't forgiving someone we love be the easiest thing in the world to do? Treasure what you have.

Don't multiply pain, anguish and suffering by holding on to forgiveness.
If everyone can look at life with this kind of perspective, there would be much fewer problems in the world.

Take off all your envies, jealousies, and unwillingness to forgive, selfishness, and fears and you will find things are actually not as difficult as you think.

I’ve had cause to interrelate with people who were in dire need of something, but somehow due to inferiority complex or fear of the unknown lack the courage to ask. I’m of the opinion that these people don’t understand the fact that what they need or want, could be given to them at the snap of their fingers. Going by what is happening today in our communities, many have relented in offering a cup of cold one to someone who is thirsty. Despite the evil that abounds in our society today, I want say that there are still many out there, who still show love, who show empathy, who are considerate, who take the risk to practice what they’re taught in churches or mosques. I want to state hear that it doesn’t only take one who is kind or merciful to assist a folk or a stranger but it takes one who is sagacious because one may in the process of showing kind gestures end up not lying down on green pastures.

You’ve been out of job for months, why not pick up your phone and make a call, you’ve just graduated from school and you’ve made several applications, why not check your mailbox, possibly a job offer awaits you, or probably you want to be you own boss, hey! Anything is possible, go get a loan regardless of the bad economy, you’re not sure of where to get a product, my dear, ask, you’re not sure of the course to study in the university or polytechnic, hmmm, please, ask questions. It will technically cost you nothing when you ask.

A closer look at the words TASK and ASK, shows that the letter ‘T’ is absent in ‘ASK.’ This is what it implies, ‘T’ stands for trust, and you trust that when you ask you’ll receive, just as the Bible tells us, “Ask and it shall be given unto you…” We trust that God will hear us that’s why we pray to him.

Fear is the number one barrier that hinders many from asking. Personally, I have cleared my doubts by asking. It is not a big task to ask. Voice out! It’s better late than never, don’t die in silence. People are not magicians to know that all is not well with you.

ASK could be summarized as, taking positive;



Actions

Sincerely

Knowing it will benefits you!

ASK: It’s not a big task

I’ve had cause to interrelate with people who were in dire need of something, but somehow due to inferiority complex or fear of the unknown lack the courage to ask. I’m of the opinion that these people don’t understand the fact that what they need or want, could be given to them at the snap of their fingers. Going by what is happening today in our communities, many have relented in offering a cup of cold one to someone who is thirsty. Despite the evil that abounds in our society today, I want say that there are still many out there, who still show love, who show empathy, who are considerate, who take the risk to practice what they’re taught in churches or mosques. I want to state hear that it doesn’t only take one who is kind or merciful to assist a folk or a stranger but it takes one who is sagacious because one may in the process of showing kind gestures end up not lying down on green pastures.

You’ve been out of job for months, why not pick up your phone and make a call, you’ve just graduated from school and you’ve made several applications, why not check your mailbox, possibly a job offer awaits you, or probably you want to be you own boss, hey! Anything is possible, go get a loan regardless of the bad economy, you’re not sure of where to get a product, my dear, ask, you’re not sure of the course to study in the university or polytechnic, hmmm, please, ask questions. It will technically cost you nothing when you ask.

A closer look at the words TASK and ASK, shows that the letter ‘T’ is absent in ‘ASK.’ This is what it implies, ‘T’ stands for trust, and you trust that when you ask you’ll receive, just as the Bible tells us, “Ask and it shall be given unto you…” We trust that God will hear us that’s why we pray to him. Fear is the number one barrier that hinders many from asking. Personally, I have cleared my doubts by asking. It is not a big task to ask. Voice out! It’s better late than never, don’t die in silence. People are not magicians to know that all is not well with you.

ASK could be summarized as, taking positive;

Actions

Sincerely

Knowing it will benefits you! [b][/b]

CHANGE MANTRA: Government Must Decide
This APC led administration must DECIDE immediately…
D=Develop and discharge needed mechanisms to cushion the suffering of the masses.
E=Establish parameters that will bring the desired change.
C=Choose desirable and profitable paths as they implement their strategies.
I=Identify stumbling blocks and remove them either by dialogue as the case may be.
D=Do the necessary actions to give the desired positive change.
E=Evaluate and embrace positive ideas that will affect the masses…Nigerians are watching and waiting!

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: The Negative Effects on a Child.

He cringed when he was told his role in a drama that will be performed in his school. His countenance should have been bright and full of excitement, since the school seldom carryout the aforementioned activity.
Bryan, happens to come from a family were domestic violence is at its peak. When he was told his role (as an angry father) in the upcoming drama, he shouted, “NO! I’m not going to act that part,” he went further to give his reasons for saying that, he said at home, his father always beats his mother at every little provocation. His teacher was stunned not just at his comments but when other pupils, were randomly talking about how their parents fought at home.

A home where domestic violence is the order of the day, will in no time affect a child negatively. Bryan felt so bad when he was told he was to act as an angry father who will be quarrelling with his wife and always making sure he is not happy with anything she does. Truth be told, what he sees at home is a fraction of the role he was supposed to play. After so many persuasion that his role was just for the drama, his teacher forthwith changed his role, the gloominess suddenly disappeared from his face, he was excited and felt so happy that his role has been changed.

The negative effects of domestic violence on a child, cannot be exaggerated. A home should be a place where children are taught the differences between nurture and torture. A home is where children are shown and given the nitty-gritties of a peaceful home.
As we browse through the internet, read through the dailies, etc., the rate at which domestic violence has risen is far beyond one could have ever imagined. What flummoxes me the most is, these set of couples who are perpetrators of domestic violence are not strangers, they agreed to come together and get married, why then the domestic violence? So many questions are on my mind when I ponder and wonder on why domestic violence is on the increase. It is detrimental for a child to be exposed to domestic violence at a very young age, the psychological trauma, the mental effects, inferiority complex, early exposure to other forms of violence are just few out of the numerous negative effects domestic violence will have on a child. Children need to be shown the path of love, the garden of joy, the field of hope, but it’s unfortunate that the opposite is what some of these children have been exposed to.

Parents should as much as possible say NO to domestic violence. Of a truth these parents are not above mistakes, no one is perfect, in fact they both noticed their imperfections and differences before they tied the knot. When there is love, there is forgiveness, when there is love, there is peace, when there is love, there is tolerance. A child who is shown the path of peace in the home will be pleased.

Indeed no condition is permanent...

Not for the first time, Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane found himself with an unwanted breeze during Tuesday's draw with Manchester City. That is, as television cameras captured, he had over-exerted himself on the touchline and ripped a large hole in his suit trousers.
Indeed, the scenario was a repeat of the French coach's problem from the quarter-final second leg with Wolfsburg, where a rip appeared during celebrations after the final whistle.
Perhaps the Los Blancos supermo will be changing his tailor ahead of the second leg with City. Oga Zizou, A made in “aba” suit could pay off o.

Maybe she is a Manchester United fan!

A herdsman presupposes to be a keeper of herd, who lives a possibly semi-nomadic life, caring for various domestic animals. One may quickly conclude that these herdsmen are indeed not care takers but life takers judging from the recent killings in Uzo-uwani a local government in Enugu State, Nigeria. Prior to this time, we have read and heard about the killings that was perpetrated by this herdsmen in Agatu local government in Benue State Nigeria. It’s so unfortunate and awfully disastrous that these so called herdsmen has become wolves in sheep clothing, they disguise themselves as herdsmen but possess an ulterior motive to kill and commit atrocities. After their previous attack on Aguata community, these herdsmen can be seen as puckish figures, who have rendered many fatherless, motherless and even orphans for no justifiable reasons.

The recent slaughter in Uzo-uwani LGA in Enugu, calls for an exigent action to curb this scourge that is gradually spreading like fire. One may not help but ponder and wonder why these Fulani herdsmen derive so much joy in slaying the young and old, male and female, the less privilege ones, who are believed to be strugglers, who go to their respective farmlands to work, but only for their corpse to be brought back home. This is so unjust and inhuman. Let me state categorically that, these herdsmen are now HARDMEN, who after taking hard drinks and concoctions carry out this barbaric and utterly ferocious act of man slaughter. The question on the mind of Nigerians, is who are these herdsmen? One would have concluded that these herdsmen can’t even hurt a fly due to the nature of what they do but that’s on the contrary.

As I read through some of our dailies and browse through the internet, some people are of the opinion that these herdsmen could be ‘boko haram,’ but how true can that be? We have come to point were justice must prevail. Who gave this herdsmen the gun, the machetes, weapons they use to commit these massacres? They are supposed to be herdsmen going about with a stick, harmless, catering for their cattle but instead they go about armed. We can’t keep quiet anymore because nobody knows their next victims. So, what can be done to curb this scourge?
It’s high time we act fast and CURB this scourge…

Call them to order: - Peradventure these herdsmen have forgotten, the purpose of the sticks used to control their cattle when they go astray, that likewise implies to them, Chairmen of various LGAs should use any possible medium to reach out to these herdsmen to ensure they are called to order, an end to this abysmal act must be reached. State governments should set up grass root anti-crime agencies to bring an end to this scourge.

Unleash immediate security personals: - Security personals such as vigilante, task force etc should be deployed immediately to every nook and cranny in every community to fight these herdsmen gallantly from start to finish.

Resolve to fight: - An unflinching resolution must be taken if these herdsmen must be defeated. The hand writing is already on the wall, the current slaughter must not be overlooked as it affects everyone directly or indirectly. They carry out their atrocities at night thinking no one can stage a fight against them. The time to fight these herdsmen is now!

Boldness till the end: - There is need to have a ‘nunca se rinde’ attitude i.e a ‘never give up’ attitude to safeguard the lives and properties of every community. These herdsmen can be subjugated, it takes boldness and extraordinary efforts to ensure their defeat.

I want to leave us with this question to ponder upon, what happens if we all fold our hands and say, after all, my family members are safe I don’t care what’s happening to others out there?