Sleepless In Muscat

Passion's Death..

2008-05-03T15:35:00.004+04:00

Princess of daylight
Of moonlight beams
Of a starry night
That holds the screams

I besiege you
Come out of the dark
Change my life
Ignite that spark

I am but a whisper
Of your breath
The seed that feeds off
Of your shining rays

Of a cold winter of the heart
The chills that fill my soul create a turbulent start

I cannot fathom life
I cannot understand you
I try to push you away
But the farther I push, the more I want you back

Tell me what it is I am to do?
When you would not allow an interlude?

In my heart
I am torn
In my soul
I am lost
In my life
I have no belief
The chosen path
Consequences defeat

I grow old as nature would pass me by
Is this the way that I shall always live my life?
The red rose in my hand
Petals flow in the air
Has passion died?
Is there no more flair?

no more remakes! please!

2008-05-02T23:27:00.003+04:00

What is it with these people?

All of a sudden every movie developer/writer/star want to continue or remake their past successes into a newly developed movie.

Is it a new trend? Or has Hollywood finally kicked the bucket on new original ideas for its movies?

Seriously, it's getting so pathetic that even I don't think its funny.

Robocop's original writer wants to revisit the franchise in consideration of local controversial politics these days.

Somebody stop them - please..

Iron Man

2008-05-02T00:01:00.002+04:00

After losing a few minutes in the introduction while trying to get a decent parking spot near the cinema here in Muscat, a few more snippets of the movie our dear censorship board decides that it is indecent (not to self: must get dvd for this movie); you attempt to understand just what is going in the movie.

Iron Man is basically a movie about some top military weapons scientist who owns a billionare empire that gets its money out of selling the latest high tech sophisticated weapons system in the world. All that he has in this world is his dear son who goes on to attend to his dad's business and his best friend who steps in to takeover the business when he dies.

His son takes up the neccessary education to follow in his father's footsteps but turns out to be one big playboy with not one care in the world except for womanizing. The story then goes on to a military demonstration in some remote location. The demonstration is successful but delivering it, and in an attempt to return home, his 'fleet' is ambushed and the story continues on from there on he changes his mind 180 degrees and reaccounts himself for his past mistakes and decides to change the world by becoming the hero of the movie: Iron Man.

Overall good fun family movie. It's mostly CGI action generated and not much violence but good sense of humor.

They have already green lit production for Iron Man 2.

This movie is being shown at Al Shatti Plaza.

review: Comex 2008

2008-04-30T00:53:00.003+04:00

Don't even bother going there. Its the same old pathetic exhibition that they put on every year, only worse.

On the shopper's side, there are most of the companies that deal with technology and telecommunications such as Omantel; Oman Mobile; Nawras; SonyEricsson; Nokia; Dell; HP; DTK and a number of others which don't come to mind right now. All offering the same stuff that they do through their agents here in Oman except at a higher price at the exhibition.

The one thing that I got to confirm is that there is no price capping for the 1Mbps; 2Mbps; and 4Mbps broadband connections from Omantel. Say, for instance, that you purchase the 4Mbps connection, you pay the 39 Rials fee and get a 5GB quota and if you exceed you pay for the extra as well. Complete ludicrious, if you ask me.

I got to find out finally how much it is to buy the Apple MacBook Air - 995 Rials. Sure, I'll just sell myself and apply for an additional loan. Uhuh.

If you're looking to waste your time, then you might as well go otherwise don't even bother, you can get better deals through various computer and telecommunications shops around the Muscat area or maybe even Dubai if you're willing to go the distance.

Choice is yours..

Prince of Persia is back

2008-04-30T00:07:00.003+04:00

Ubisoft has finally officially announced that a new Prince of Persia game will be released around the 2008 holidays (Summer? Christmas?) but has yet to announce the subtitle of the newly mentioned installment of the franchise but it's rumored to be either Prince of Persia: Ghosts of the Past or Prince of Persia Prodigy.

There are too many details to be mentioned apart from the obvious facts that it will be a totally new prince with new characters and storyline; this will come as a pre-release of the anticipated Prince of Perisa: Sands of Time movie being produced by multi-million action producer Jerry Bruckheimer in 2009.

You can check out a few of the websites that offer details about the new game by clicking here, here, here, here, and here.

The game will be released for all the game consoles including the Playstation 3, the Xbox 360 and the PC. There is no scheduled release for the Wii. A separate game with different storyline and characters is in the works for the Nintendo DS system.

You can check out the official new Prince of Persia website through this link.

new Batman 2: The Dark Knight images

2008-04-28T23:37:00.004+04:00

The suspense is killing me into the momentum that is building up to the release date of The Dark Knight sometime in May or June, I believe.

I was able to get these images from Yahoo! Movies. Check them out.

Rest In Peace: Heath Ledger.

COMEX: is it worth even attending?

2008-04-28T23:26:00.003+04:00

I have seen the supplement provided by a newspaper today and it shows some fairly good deals on some established products for exhibitors in COMEX 2008 at the Oman International Exhibition Centre.

I have yet to check out the exhibition tomorrow afternoon or evening so should come up with a summary by then.

close, but no cigar

2008-04-28T12:31:00.004+04:00

You probably known by now the new ADSL+2 packages that Omantel is now offering. But I figured that since I had been yapping about the subject for the past several days of last week, I might as well round it up.

The details are somewhat still sketchy; there are three types of packages; Residential; Commercial; and Governmental.

Residential packages offer up to 8Mbps speeds with unlimited downloads and 512 KBps upstream, with 7 email accounts, free antivirus and spam protection and no monthly rental with no caps according to Omantel's newly established FUP - Fair Usage Policy.

Commercial packages have the same benefits with a maximum download speed of 16Mbps and most likely 1Mbps upstream that includes 15 free email addresses from the Omantel server and antivirus/spam protection.

Governmental packages have not been displayed on the online portal for the company but had been earlier released in the press release in written media yesterday. And as always, they get the best deals.

Its fair to say that some of the prices included for the packages are somewhat reasonable in a manner, but others are completely ridiculous since there is no capping for any of the residential packages apart from the basic 512KBps and 8Mbps packages while the commercial and governmental packages don't have a mention of this FUP that Omantel is to imply.

Omantel has said online that it has come out with this result after comparing prices, packages and policies from different ISPs around the world to end with this. In all honesty, most ISPs - professional ISPs - give their users/customers unlimited downloads no matter what speed they get based on a flat monthly/yearly rate. Why is Omantel so insistent to stay behind the developed world?

I'd say this to those folks at Omantel; Close, but no cigar.

You can check out these packages from the Omantel website.

leaked: new ADSL packages

2008-04-26T23:19:00.004+04:00

You know those vague printed media advertisements? Especially in the newspapers? The ones that say something about 'Power'?

They're the introduction of the new Omantel ADSL package strategy.

Only the picture above got leaked somehow to someone but quickly got removed from the Internet website to the company, but not before getting a grasp of the thumbnail.

Guess we'll also have to wait until tomorrow's papers come out.

Stargate: Continuum

2008-04-26T15:04:00.001+04:00

Everyone knows about Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis. And everyone including me thought that the ending to the original Stargate series sucked big time.

It seems though that the folks behind the Sci-Fi network wish to rekindle the affair with their audience by recapturing the magic that was once in the days when Richard Dean Anderson was still with the SG-1 team before they cut him of the show in season 9.

This is all to be launched in a new Television movie called - Stargate: Continuum.

The story carries on with ingredients of the two shows (i.e.: SG-1 & Atlantis) by reuniting both teams with Col. Jack O'Neill. In a threat to the Earth made by the Go'ald, along with other unseen enemies, the newly assembled team must devise a plan to conquer the threat once and for all.

The trailer above pretty much describes the rest.

The movie is set to be released on DVD and Blu-ray Disc on July 29th, 2008.

get ready to change your digital experience?

2008-04-26T12:07:00.003+04:00

Finally, the day has come when such an event we thought would never occur. Where, we - as Omanis and citizens of the Sultanate of Oman - will boldly go where none of us have gone before. Can we truly admit now that we are a developing nation?

The answer lies within time itself.

Today, Omantel is going to announce its new long term strategy in regards to the Internet, the Oman Mobile/Omantel merger and what other services it would be enforcing through this year (hint: 3G+ for Oman Mobile) all in a press conference.

It is said in the press release in various written media that Omantel will introduce new ADSL packages that will accomodate to the customer's pockets as well as be the cheapest in the entire Gulf region (which I find that hard to believe).

Let's just try and give them the benefit of the doubt - shall we?

PS: maybe as part of their strategy, they could change their stupid logo.

21

2008-04-24T21:57:00.002+04:00

From the moment you see this movie's trailer at the cinema you get an idea that the entire plot is about gambling and how to entertain yourself with the luxury of being absolutely rich. But that's where you're mistaken because the entire idea of the movie is not so much about gambling and the such but rather about one very simple mathematical substance: variable change.

21 is a movie about young simple maths geniuses who put themselves to the test of counting gambling cards in a game of Black Jack who all study at the prestigious M.I.T. institute of higher education who get involved by invitation because of their extraordinary mental abilities and skills.

Along the way they enjoy the riches and what not that their abilities enable them and get them when used to their advantage when they are at the betting tables. Throughout the story you find out about this young man and his desperate need to fill in a financial void to enable him to go to medical school at MIT. His luck at the gambling table finally runs out when he is caught in the act.

So what do you think he does?

The movie, besides the plot, is really watchable and quite entertaining in comparison to the Ocean's trilogy, also adds a certain twist of his own.

I'd recommend it for everyone who is of legal age.

Hope you get to enjoy it as much as I did..

Sitting All Alone In My Room

2008-04-23T23:31:00.003+04:00

I sit all alone in my room
Contained in my own solitude

I sit all alone in my room
So as not to let anyone steal my thoughts
To drain away
My only freedom in my speech, in my guts

A handful of people I trust
People who I can sit with to joke, laugh and with no dignity - curse

I sit all alone in my room
So I can savior my soul to myself
To contain the feelings that I would otherwise regret

But most of all
I sit all alone in my room
So I can just be alone
So that nobody bothers me by striking up a tone

news for OmanTel & Oman Mobile subscribers

2008-04-23T11:53:00.004+04:00

A few days ago, I had read the letter from the chief of board of directors of OmanTel as it was published in the local newspapers about the results as of 31st December, 2007. In it, the person describes the 'accomplishments' that OmanTel has achieved along the way, its profits and losses and its potential growth. But one section of the page had caught my eye which was what kind of services that OmanTel and Oman Mobile were going to roll out in the near future.

It said that it expects to launch Oman Mobile 3G+ service throughout its network during the third quarter of this year (2008) - so good news for you there. It also vaguely mentioned the launching of broadband services in different forms - and I remember distinctly a while ago in some written media that it had said in a press release that it was going to launch VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services, along with the expected release of different packages of broadband services to accommodate to the needs of the community in the Sultanate of Oman. Although there really is no point in rolling out the new services if they can't fix the old ones, most importantly: efficiency of the network (i.e.: consistent disconnection from the network on several occasions). Having said that, all we can really do is just sit and wait while they keep making 365 million more Rials every now and then.

And last but not the bit least, the expected merger between OmanTel and Oman Mobile is coming in early 2009. They've hired a professional consultant to help them out in this case and they can expect a can of whoop-ass if they don't achieve their desired goals from the government.

make everyday Earth Day

2008-04-23T01:53:00.002+04:00

For more information about Earth Day and how to make this a more greener planet, visit: Rustle The Leaf.

redundant minds

2008-04-22T01:58:00.003+04:00

I don't expect anyone to ever understand me or what I am going through in this phase of time. After all, we're all different from each other and if ever someone comes up to me and says that 'opposites attract', they're sure to get a piece of my mind because it isn't always true. Therefore a generalization isn't the answer.

No.

At times, I feel confident and content that I take on any given task with no problems whatsoever. But lately, there is another feeling that seems to surface from time to time which is being alone. Sad story fast forward, it just doesn't pay anymore to make any friends if your old friends don't want to stay in touch with you just because they got married or have their own agenda in some other part of the planet.

God created man and woman. He also created reason and rationale. Meaning which that when He created man and woman, He had created a reason for which they would find each other attractive whether it was love, lust or just a likeness to the other sex. But what my mind fails to understand is that out of 6 billion people on this Earth, you get to choose the one that doesn't want you at all and your heart aches from within knowing you will never get her to fall in love with you.

Yes. I do know that I've skewed off the main topic. But, bare with me just a little bit more, please.

We all grow up from our selfless habits from when we were children to becoming teens and now reach this moment: young adult-hood. Memories stick with us to help us remember what it was like back in those days. We keep our experiences to ourselves to use to overcome future knowledge. But when you get to a moment that you are frozen in - what do you do?

The main reason for this topic is that I have a basket of mixed emotions within me and I don't know what to make of it. The harder you try to get out of it the harder it becomes on you. Its like you're trying to get the machine working but its frozen solid.

I wish I knew what to do..

COMEX 2008 - Sultanate of Oman

2008-04-20T23:28:00.002+04:00

"COMEX the largest annual IT, Telecom & Technology show in the Sultanate of Oman, has gained the reputation of a leading platform showcasing the latest in technology and services to match the rising needs for telecommunication & information technology solutions in the region. COMEX carries great value for the country's fast growing industrial, corporate and consumer markets that are in continuous search of modern technology."

Comex 2008 - Oman is due to be on during the period of 28th April, 2008 to 1st May, 2008 for businesses & between 28th April, 2008 to 2nd May, 2008 for consumers.

responsibilities

2008-04-19T22:50:00.002+04:00

In a statement, Abraham Lincoln states "There is just one way to bring up a child in the way he should go, and that is to travel that way yourself".

A noble goal indeed, it is to educate one's self in the subject of life and how to deal with it in all manners of cases that should come our way. But the true nobility lies in how we use the knowledge we possess along the way to adhere to the circumstances that set a hurdle in our path.

A chosen profession, perhaps. A reliable means of income, maybe. Such examples are the end results of corrective responses of our characteristics to how we respond to situations, whether it is a between the jaws of peril or a jump of joy for the happy news of a newly-born.

Regardless of the situation, it is the responsibility that we hold to our sanity in answer to the given situation at all times so as not to create an unstable dilemma.

The imbalance of our biological structure when in such a situation is what causes this to occur. Something we could not possibly overcome because it is the way we were made in the hands of God. But that is not to say that we cannot control ourselves.

It is our future and as such .. our responsibility.

Bucket List

2008-04-17T23:47:00.004+04:00

To be quite honest, I didn't fancy going to this movie mainly because of two reasons: one of which was the title was kind of boring; and secondly, the actors weren't exactly my favorites (i.e.: Morgan Freeman & Jack Nicholson). I only went because of the company.

As it turns out, the movie was excellent, if you like drama with a sniff of wit along with it, that is.

The story is there's these to men on their way to big dust-room in the sky, and they meet each other at the hospital room they both share with each other. After completion of medicinal help and knowing the ultimate outcome of their fates they decide to put together a bucket list - a list of all the things that they would like to accomplish before they are greeted by the Egyptian Heaven Guard.

The movie takes you on a journey with these men, showing you their humane side and their quirks along with the non-judgmental eye on faith, religion, and most of all - trust.

This movie is currently showing at Al Shatti Plaza.

Believe me, you wouldn't want to miss this movie.

its coming

2008-04-16T15:50:00.010+04:00

Well, it would seem that the people behind our beloved ISP are actually doing some work on providing some better speeds to the Omani populace. My intenet connection had crashed a lot of times this week to the point where I just got fed up with it and closed the laptop altogether until - hey, presto - some one or two days ago it fired up to better speeds close to 51KBps. The average that I ever got was 43KBps.

Comex is coming very soon and there's been a news bulletin in the written media that Omantel will be introducing new ADSL packages to cater to the needs of their strengthening number of demanding customers. About time, too.
It is said that these packages will include an upgrade to the residential 384KBps connections to 512KBps as well as the introduction of new 1MB, 2MB, 4MB and 8MB connections with no caps and free download limits reaching a level of 10GB per month.

Let's hope the prices that they will provide will also cater to the customers torn up pockets. After all, we are living the golden age.

second chances..

2008-04-15T23:22:00.003+04:00

Its amazing how the mind works. The most simplistic behavioral patterns is often how we judge people when we see them do the things that they do. But to what end do you see the actual truth? You would fathom on the possibilities and the whens and whys of what was the intent of such a person behind a specific action. Others will amuse you in claiming that they have the supernatural sense of reading thoughts. Then again, there are those who are born naturally gifted with a sense to 'feel' out the rythems and signs of bodily language in an attempt to better understand the individual that they are in host of.

But truth to be told, we are not Gods. We are not supermen and women who are out to accomplish a set objective to a mission. We are merely human beings trying to better understand the true nature behind such discrepencies.

While in my youth, I had a become a regular Pinnochio with the never ending 'why?' on my tongue. Why does the world turn around? Why do people do the stupid akward things that they do to make another person feel special? Why are we still standing on this Earth when it itself is turning around itself at an enormous speed?

Some answers I gathered.

Some - however - I did not.

You could say that you can call them 'growing pains'. Tempremants of a youth in a desire to learn more, but in his own way. With a drive to push forward and have the fun of his life.

But time leaves no one alone.

Over a period of time, there was joy and pain. There was laughter and vain. There was the loss of friends, loved ones, and those whom you could say you would not have lived without. Yet, alas, all was gone. The point of no return had been passed and it just was - no going back.

Regrets at this point matter not. Nor do memories do you any good. But the focus on the present and firm hands on the steering wheel of the future is where it all lies now.

Do you believe in second chances?

get ready for a new airport experience

2008-04-13T22:54:00.003+04:00

Apparently, Zahara Travels & Service Bureau L.L.C., along with Plaza Premium Lounge Management Ltd of Hong Kong, China have teamed up to create a new joint venture that would overtake the responsibility of Muscat International Airport's consumer experience in overall services, and attainment of products under the name of Zahara Airport Services.

There was a very tight competition between the bidders of the tender for such a 'world class' service and these guys won it. Kind of reminds you of what happened when there was a bidding for the 2nd mobile operator in Oman and Nawras had won in what was locally dubbed as 'you rub my back and I'll rub yours' attempt to allow Omantel into the Qatari market as a second operator against the Q-tel monopoly.

So what should we expect?

Not much, as I can gather from the news brief that the Times of Oman printed this story online. Nothing, that is, other than that we'd probably get the same old lame services from these guys except we'd be stamped 'jackasses for life' if this went over our heads unnoticed.

Honestly, who do they think that they're fooling?

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- Times of Oman: Zahara Travel to operate airport lounge

accepting things as they happen..

2008-04-12T23:32:00.002+04:00

In the past, I have been resistant to fate's crashes and sub-crashes of life's systems from illness, studies and work running me into the stone wall of the depression phase.

Now, there's a new me that's looking to pop out.

The one that takes every disadvantage possible and turn it into an advantage. One where there's no agony or pain less than that of suffering and disease. The child-like adventures are over and it's time to get serious since time is running out on our beloved youth in realization of the fact that we're not getting any younger any time soon.

Smiling when it most hurts.

Gripping onto faith in the utmost darkest corners of a lost and wondering soul.

Celebrating the success and defeat - each in their own way by trust one's self in success and applying confidence to one's morality while learning from the mistakes that one makes on this long journey we call life so that we may not repeat them again in the near and far future.

There is a chance that we could make it to the other side all in one piece. But the question that arises is this: which path would we choose: good or evil?

the worst exhibition - ever

2008-04-09T21:48:00.002+04:00

I went to visit the GHEDEX exhibition today (Wednesday) to have a look around of what kind of opportunities were in offer, and I have to tell you folks; it was the pits.

I mean, there was barely any representation from any Omani colleges apart from the known ones but what about the institutes? Aren't they part of the solution too to the ever increasing number of annual high school graduates?

Along with that the part inclusion of JOBEX alongside this exhibition was the worst that I have ever seen in my entire educational lifetime. You had one bank which was OIB. Nobody from any of the other banks were there to present offers to students who wanted to join their organization nor was there an adequate representation of any Omani company for that matter.

All in all I counted about maybe some 8 or 10 companies in total who were offering job opportunities.

Is this what it has come to?

This exhibition was on display at the Oman International Exhibition Centre from the 7th to the 9th of April, 2008.

Thank God the embarrassment is over.

everybody says die...

2008-04-08T14:55:00.004+04:00

Here's a glimpse of what you can expect in my third poetry book.

Hope you all like it.

--------------------------

We got orphans living in the streets
We got no food or water to drink
We got bust for not being able to think
And now everybody says die

The atmosphere is giving up on us
The child within begins to curse
All the fools stopped looking for love because of lust
And now everybody says die

Everybody says die
We living a low life
We choose to deny
What dignity we stand to gain but complicate our simple lives

Everybody says die
Because of the life we have to live
Of all the chores we should go on and give
Everybody says die because they just want to give up than cry

Look at the clouds above our heads
Look at the tears we cry in the dust
Look at the children who stopped smiling because of lost trust
And everybody says die

The UN says forgive
Nations just want to have war than to stand and live
Changes in attitude go on but do we ever learn?
The choices we makes are consequences earned
And everybody says die

There is a life we have to earn
A choice of whether to grow or burn
Better than mountains that crumble and turn
But will we ever learn?
And everybody says die

Everybody says die

Everybody says die

Everybody says die

keeping things in perspective

2008-04-07T12:51:00.002+04:00

I have mountains of pressure on my head right now. I have no idea what to make of it and what to do with it and trying to sort it out gives my brain a big headache everytime.

So I got sick the last time and again I lost a good amount of time of studies in the College that I was going to and I ended up hitting a wall everytime I wanted to reach a decision because I couldn't be decisive about it. Sitting at home doing nothing doesn't help much either. I was told a couple of times before and now that if everyone who ever got sick stopped going to their daily chores then this world would never move and we would never progress.

Then comes the issue of me working on my poetry book which I am trying so hard to move on with by having it ready before the year's end but my creative sector of the brain has completely shut down along with my passion and emotion.

I see myself as a cold person, someone I had always loathed to be. I never wanted to become this. I can't even laugh right let alone make a joke about something.

But I am trying as hard as I can to keep everything in perspective.

The College will have to bare with me for a little while longer because I plan to continue (contrary to the previous decision of quitting), my poetry book will have to come out sooner or later and when it does it'll bare its fruits and as for my dilemma - well - that's something only time can solve, I suppose.

Wouldn't you say?

common sense & respect...

2008-04-05T21:59:00.003+04:00

... are two of the common values that most, if not all the people should always have when dealing with strangers and whatnot.

But does this happen in Muscat?

Hell, no.

Imagine you're standing in line waiting to order something from a fast food restaurant and someone is standing right beside you - a female - in the line. Now your turn has come up and you proceed to make your order but the female skips you and automatically assumes that it's her turn.

Common sense and respect states in this situation that you get an apology from the woman and the right-a-way to make your order.

This was not the case.

In fact, it was completely the opposite. The lady states that she had no knowledge that you never ordered and that she wasn't paying attention to you and that you should respect yourself because you're in front of the softer sex.

The result.

A good shouting at.. that's what.

not easily denied

2008-04-04T23:09:00.003+04:00

When man is faced with perils beyond compare, there is always a way out whether they see it or not.

Something everyone - including me - should always keep in mind. As our fears turn against us, they cause agitation; frustration and aches of all sorts to the point that we create an invisible circle or sphere around us that we trust no one to come through or anywhere near.

Dare we say the psychological ipso facto on such an issue is associated with sociology as much as it is with the approach of communication towards the individual.

I was here a couple of times and I am here now.

And it is only a brief amount of time until this phase blows over.

back on track

2008-04-03T11:09:00.002+04:00

For those of you who have been waiting patiently for the rest of the blogs that I work upon to resume activity, I have some happy news for you. The Secret Arabian Journal has had a new post added to it some two days ago.

Go on ahead and check it out.

I, Yahya and Jassim would like to welcome you all back.

O.A.S. plans to build 6 more airports

2008-04-01T12:24:00.003+04:00

The last time the airports were mentioned, we were told that a total of 5 airports would be developed in Oman with a large fund from the government because they wanted to boost the tourism sector.

Now, the Oman Aviation Services company (which I think partially owns the airports in Oman along with the government - please correct me if I am wrong) is looking to develop 6 airports in the Sultanate and develop both Muscat International Airport and Salalah International Airport by adding new features and developments yearly from the year 2010 until 2019.

If scientists are right that the Earth would be hit by a comet or meteorite by the year 2012, then there's no need for all of this.

Seriously.

The amount that is being spent on these airports should be invested into stabilizing the local economy that is now facing a 'official' 7% inflation, over-hiked prices in general on everything, and low wages and salaries whether you're in the government or the private sector.

It just doesn't pay to get out of bed these days, does it?

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- Oman Tribune: 6 new airports soon, says Al Haremi

KnowledgeOman.com

2008-04-01T12:08:00.003+04:00

The first of its kind platform website to raise awareness of the IT industry in the Sultanate of Oman (and in the GCC, if I'm not mistaken) has been launched today by founder and President of the whole concept and 'company' - Tariq Al Barwani.

You can visit the website via this link.

Tell them what you think of it, I personally think it's a great idea and somebody has got to come up with something similar someday to enable several service distributors to reach as many consumers in Oman as possible.

another reason to moan and groan

2008-03-31T15:16:00.003+04:00

Not too long ago, the Minister of Economy guaranteed that no such law would be passed onto the population - never, in a million years. That there would be ways to go around it.

There were speculations between then and now that such a move would have to happen eventually.

There was even a strong rumor that both the UAE and the Sultanate were in secret discussions regarding this issue to launch it at an appropriate and simultaneous timing.

But all this was denied by the people from up above.

Now this happens..

The Shura council has approved a draft law of income tax that was passed onto it by the Ministerial cabinet for approval. There were several changes in the law, most of which was only through the naming keeping intact the actual definitions of the law behind them.

The Oman Tribune goes on to say;

" The report included the recommendations and remarks by the committee on the articles of the draft law, which is one of the important laws as it affects the social and economic aspects of people, taking into consideration that tax in general is no more limited to public revenue rather related to achieve the social and economic growth."

So, rejoice Omanis.

Yippee for us.

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- Oman Tribune: Shura approves content of report on income tax law

is there a point?

2008-03-26T13:01:00.002+04:00

Experience..

Isn't it a strange thing? We take for granted what we have when it happens that we don't.

I, for instance, know that I have come to a point of fullness of whereby I have taken in everything that could ever be experienced from technology, TV, and certain aspects of life. Which is the reason why I feel nothing these days but plain boredom.

At a point of life of whereby everything is supposed to have a meaning in your life from marriage, love, relationships and career. But none of the sort has surfaced.

I only wish that I knew when this ship would turn around.

Make your own point out of this post, folks..

untimely

2008-03-21T20:57:00.003+04:00

I would like to apologize for not writing up a new post during the last few days since there was an untimely death in our family and I had to respect it first and foremost. The second reason why I never wrote up is that I have become really tired - in an unbeilievable way - physically thus restricting my movements quite much.

I hope you all understand.

Happy holidays over the Prophets Birthdate by the way.

the rumor mill: chapter 1

2008-03-18T14:16:00.004+04:00

I hate word of mouth. As I am sure that everyone else on this planet does. I mean it really hits you in the spot, sometimes.

Like today, I get told that my ex-tutor from the college is spreading a rumor about me having Leukemia. I mean, of all the maniac things that can be spread about a person, this has to be the meanest that has ever come to hit me.

Other things I hate about word of mouth, is that you hear that a so and so company is rolling out a better service and quality for its expanding customers. Yet you never see that result rolling out. Its like they feed on the roll of the rumor mill to eat off the agitation of the aggression of people's feelings.

Then you have these none stop ever changing surroundings done by a company being paid by the government in order to finish on a deadline. But do you see any progress so far?

Neither do I.

Its like to hell with that, get the better people, pay a little extra, and get paid better quality of service and product.

But what's the worst effect of the rumor mill, is that it actually effects people's lives, look at prices these days, lands, commodities, agriculture and fisheries.

It is indeed a sad sight to see.

But thats what you pay for the price of 'progress'.

Got Nawras? You got e-payment.

2008-03-16T12:31:00.002+04:00

If you're signed up with Nawras mobile telecommunications, then you're in luck since Nawras have just launched their e-payment system in accordance with the Electronic Government initiative launched a few years ago by the government of the Sultanate of Oman.

The system allows you to use your Visa or Master Card credit card online only. Unfortunately, those are the only two credit cards that anyone is allowed to use, no debit cards, no others brands.

All you do is log on your MyNawras page online on www.nawras.om; and click on e-payment and follow the instructions.

It seems we're going to say goodbye to long queues.

the plan

2008-03-14T13:27:00.004+04:00

Take a note, people. This will the longest article that you will ever come by.

I have realized that I have been a long time gone from writing or typing and its affected me because now I can't think about anything to write for this blog nor for my next poetry book. I had been told to go back into such a habit is as hard as having to let it go. Which, in a sense, is true.

I have changed a lot over the last period.

I have begun to hate watching anything DVD, games, videos, TV or video. Whatever it may be. I have also started to hate listening to music - any music. Which is something quite odd, because I am the kind of person who loves music - any good music.

I guess because I have been into hospital so many times. But this shouldn't stop me, because it won't be the first nor the last time I go into hospital as far as I can guess.

Think about the future. Be positive. Two phrases I hear quite often but have little effect on me. Since I want to do things my own way; which is go against the current.

So why am I making this fuss public?

Well I have to otherwise I'll lose the only thing I am ever good at: Writing.

So what will happen from on? Multiple posts almost everyday about anything qualitative. Several attempts to make it regain the rank it used to have before it went to krsplat! And one last thing: competitive to reach every reader anywhere in the world in any way possible.

Patience

2008-03-09T18:20:00.004+04:00

If you're looking for new news, then I have some for you; I am currently working on my third book thats due before the end of the year. I have no title for it yet but will let you know what it is when when I decide.

Prince of Persia is finally coming out with its third sequel (which is actually a prequel) called Ghost of the Past. Coming out on June 2006 in time with the movie Prince of Persia Sands of Time which is in preproduction now.

I promise the development for the blog will come very soon but I said not instantly, but gradually.

I appreciate your patience...

the comeback

2008-03-05T22:48:00.003+04:00

da da da da
da da da
da da da da da da

'theme of superman' (in case you all forgot)

Making a comeback is not easy at all.

I have been in and out of things, I have suffered a lot, I have a few decisions - one of which is to totally redesign this boring blog of mine (in case you're all wondering; you can still access the blog through the address www.sleeplessinmuscat.com).

The changes will come in gradually but not instantly, so bare with.

A shout out to every one who kept coming back to see if there was anything new on the blog, you're deeply appreciated.

Til then..

theweek on the web; again?

2008-01-10T21:43:00.000+04:00

I'm sure you've all come to see their fancy new website on the address they published in their last issue of their national weekly; if not, here's the link.

I personally think that they were very overdue and this should have come out from day one they started with their publishing of a new weekly magazine that covers almost every topic on Oman. And much easier and hassle free than with having to waste paper, more efficient and very traceable.

'let there be light'

2008-01-10T21:32:00.000+04:00

A child
A window
A star
A scared scream into the night

A childish whim
A darkness that hymns
A reversed feeling of sadness
That drives you wild and more wild

But beyond the sun
Beyond the horizon of love
Beyond the horizon of a feeling that knows no length

You find your path on your own
You find the distinct footsteps of which you used to roam
Back from aday
And more than 1001 nights

The child is born again
To say to the world
'let there be light'

Eid Al Adh-ha Mubarak to everyone

2007-12-19T01:08:00.000+04:00

Hope everyone has a great Eid and relishes in the feeling of being around the ones that love you most.

Take heed into what matters most, for one day it would come back to you like a boomerang.

Eid Mubarak...

bigger fish to fry

2007-12-07T15:11:00.001+04:00

It's not everytime you get so busy that you forget your whole life and what surrounds it just to live off in the freedom that holds you in it's own prison.

I've been so busy with everything ever since I restarted College that I have barely had time to breath just to suck in everything that I have done or about to do that I am starting to taking on-the-job, if you know what I mean.

Studies have been quite hectic because we have tons of work that needs to be finished in so little time, not to mention that I have been trying to depend on myself a little more rather than keep going back to the 'source' that most of the time I am out from morning to College and never come come back until sometime at 11pm at nights all days of the week unless it's a holiday or one of the days that I have my appointment for a hospital health check up.

Sure, it gets boring to be in such a routine mission day-in day-out, but I'd rather have it this way than having to sit away at my monitor or the TV or whatever it is for the rest of the day just doing nothing trying to think of what I can or cannot do for the next 6 or 7 hours until it's time to head for la la land.

I've also been trying to keep my depression thoughts out of the way. It's not easy either because I keep getting them back but I push on, I strive on. And when I put on a smiling face, I always try to make it heartfelt. I've realized that I have become a quitter in the past and I pushed that thought aside to demand what I want - no matter how trivial it may sound or be to the onlookers.

I've come to learn a lot in the past few weeks that I haven't actually blogged onto this site. Too much that I have had to just grasp the moment that it comes with to learn of it what it may bring to me in terms of lessons.

I've learned that Oman doesn't really care anymore about the environment any longer because on the outside they call for eco-tourism yet they on the other hand they are striving to destroy the environment at the same time by giving up more land to oil companies for exploration; establishing peaceful nuclear fuel capabilities along with the GCC council and not to mention redefining the real estate industry of the Sultanate along with its neighbors.

I've also learned that the stupidities that have been announced of allowing competition into Oman is just yet another agenda or front to shut the international community up by setting 'competition' into the field with Nawras when they very well know that the outside competition would cripple them. The thing with Oman is that officials boast a lot about things that need to be done for the country for it's economical benefit, but if you go about the shops, you can still buy pirated software, pirated DVDs, and Playstation or Xbox360 or Wii games. They talk about efficiency in the government sector also, yet you still wait one or two months just to get a printed allocated set of land that you are entitled to - of which you pay for - on a piece of paper.

I'll admit Oman has come a long way in many strives and has indeed jumped leaps from the day that we knew we had oil, but to be honest, things can be done in so many different and better ways in this country but no one is willing to listen.

Nobody.

That's why it seems such a bother to me of why I should ever blog in the first place or even write articles for anyone when no one takes notice.

Blogging is and will always be a phenomenon to me. But to the much conservative Omani society and community in a whole, they are just too damn right narrow minded because they would rather have ask you on a face-to-face basis about your whole tribe whilst standing in public in just under 30 minutes.

I shouldn't even bother to talk about regional or international politics because the game is already played. Seriously. I mean, are you trying to tell me that this wasn't all played out since the day that George Bush took the seat in the White House? Or what about Iran? Or Iraq for that matter? (It's pronounced 'eerak' not 'eye-rak')..

I don't blame anyone anymore for not blogging for several reasons. One of which is because I am in that same position of where I cannot find the right words to be said. And two, because I have a lot more important things to be busying myself with than be bothered about blogging. Three, its not what it used to be to me anymore, unfortunately - for the fun of it.

Believe you and me - there's some bigger pizzas to be baked here (as opposed to 'bigger fish to fry').

TimesofOman.com: Matters of consideration

2007-12-03T23:59:00.000+04:00

The TimesofOman.com has finally published my article which was supposed to appear last week but for some reason did not.

I apologize for the delay.

Please follow the below link to read the full article submitted under the title Matters of Consideration.

Do enjoy...

-----------------

Link:

- TimesofOman.com: Matters of consideration

Sultanate marks World Aids Day 2007

2007-12-02T05:38:00.000+04:00

Spread the message.. Not the virus.

--------------

Links:

- Al Shabiba: National AIDS Strategy Launched (in Arabic)

- Al Watan: Haitham bin Tariq launches National AIDS Strategy

- TimesofOman.com: Sayyid Haitham to launch national strategy to fight AIDS

- Oman Tribune: Strategy to fight AIDS to be unveiled

last article (proposed): SQU Horizon Newsletter - A Graduate's Burden

2007-11-27T22:24:00.000+04:00

Below is the last article that I will be submitting to the Sultan Qaboos University's Horizon Newsletter. The reason is that they have terminated my services due to the return of their ex-English Language writer on a permanent basis.

Oh, well..

Nothing good lasts forever.

But, hopefully, there will be other opportunities in the future to come, inshallah.

--------------------------

A Graduate's Burden

On December the 1^st and the 8^th of this year, the Sultan Qaboos University will have a ceremony of graduation. It is always hard in the beginning to start a long journey, knowing the uncertainties at hand, knowing that path is hard and never easy to follow on. In fact, there are some individuals who may fall apart along the way giving in to a different variable of reasons. But it is those that stick to the goals that they target who will always succeed, and succeed they shall prompting the inevitable stage of graduation to come and give them their hard earned rewards.

Those are the days that would start to define the type of men and women the graduates turn out to be in real life throughout their careers, and their practical lifestyles.

A series of developments will await these fine young men and women of our proud nation, a natural course that would always take them through the ups and downs of their lives; choices will be made, decisions taken and ultimately they will bare the fruits of their decision making whether they turn out to be good or bad.

This graduation ceremony will mark a step into the real world where no longer is anything of free service but anything they require will ask of them that extra mile to earn what they want.

No matter what field the graduate comes from, there will be a need to nurture the desire to become better at what has been accomplished so far. This need must be addressed through their work and career when and if they should get a job later on in life. They will need to push further and stronger to prove that they are worthy of such a position, not only amongst their fellow graduate colleagues but also amongst their peers, their co-workers, and at their jobs.

The Sultan Qaboos University has a reputation of giving birth to some of the very best graduates in the Sultanate of Oman, and it is the responsibility of future graduates to maintain that image and to also raise the bar higher in terms of respect towards this fine higher education institution.

A responsibility that is not easy to bare. But, if maintained then it would help in matters of future progress towards the generations to come.

proposed - TimesofOman.com: matters of consideration

2007-11-26T00:43:00.000+04:00

Below is the proposed article that I am sending to the TimesofOman.com for publishing.

I haven't been able to write much on the blog because I am so busy with College and other personal matters. I hope you all can understand.

Let me know what you think of this article, though..

--------------------

Matters of Consideration

Take into account what is going on around the world of late. Look at what is rapidly happening throughout our world. Lifestyles have been changed, cultures diminished, and environments brought down to rubble over man's one desire of greed.

The one choice that we, as a younger generation have always thought of when we are children is what we'd like to do with the world when we grow up. Ironically, world peace seems to be the answer that most children answer back and plausibly so.

But is that behavior a reflection of the world that we are living in nowadays? Perhaps. But it is also a matter of perspective. For if one is to look always at the gloomy side of things then they will no sooner be depressed and sad themselves.

The matter at hand is the fact that we are indeed at a crossroad of decisions that need to be made, effectively and efficiently. A decision that would take into hand all matters those revolve around us. Such as the changing environment and scenery in Oman and how rapid the changes are taking place in terms of what effects they may have on us in the short and long term periods of time. A daily ritual that we have to go through everyday no matter where we are living because of the sudden rise in awareness of development in the country.

Population attitude is yet another thing amongst the issues that need to be looked at, with drivers on roads becoming more and more dangerous by ignoring signs and radars that are put on the highways and heavy vehicles overtaking each other in high speeds putting other cars and pedestrians on the road to danger is something that not only needs to be looked at but taken into very serious consideration.

While such matters are all only on a local basis, it is the belief that one should rectify one's own mistakes in order to start pointing out the mistakes and weaknesses of others around them to gain momentum and prompt a forward movement in ratifying the overall situation.

Dar Al Atta reading campaign gets featured

2007-11-18T00:41:00.000+04:00

As you all may recall, the book signing session which I was supposed to be included in had been reported several times on this blog and I had mentioned time and time again that it was supposed to be featured within a bigger event to help raise money for a public library here in the Sultanate of Oman.

On Thursday, 15/11/2007, the Oman Tribune featured it in both it's online and hard copy editions, saying:

Dar Al Atta’a, a charitable organisation, will hold its inaugural ‘Let’s Read!’ campaign on Thursday from 10am to 6pm.

The event, aimed at encouraging children to read, will be held at the Jawarat Al Shatti (JAS) Complex in Shatti Al Qurum. The lead sponsor for the event is Bank Muscat. In addition to the hands-on activities for children, including story telling, poster displays, book making, book reviews by kids, favourite character costume parades, and puppet shows, there will also be a used book fair and a sale of T-shirts and bags. Several local guest authors will be there to read their stories and sign copies of their books. A help desk will also be set up to advice parents on ways to encourage their children to read.

------------------

Link:

- Oman Tribune: Dar Al Atta' to hold 'Let's Read!' Campaign

proposed: SQU Horizon newsletter article - Oman's National Day

2007-11-17T16:22:00.000+04:00

Below is the full text of proposed last article that I would write for the Sultan Qaboos University Horizon newsletter.

It is about the Oman National Day and its celebration.

I hope you all like it - please let me know what you think of it..

--------------------------------------

In a country such as the Sultanate of Oman, one can only admire the progress it has seen in the last 37 years ever since His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said – Sultan of Oman – had brought the country from the limelight into a blessed development of ongoing renaissance; from the darkness into the light.

By focusing on future needed developments on wide scales whilst keeping an eye on the past his Majesty sought to bring the country up to par with the international community by providing health services for free; building educational institutions such as the Sultan Qaboos University; and providing modern day needs to a nation that never knew the existence of such modern yet practical solutions for the modern day and age.

The Sultanate of Oman has come a long way since the 1970s, and it still strives so by pushing further to make the country a better place to live in and a much safer and more educated haven for people to come and stop by. Such examples that can be admired through the very recent diplomatic Shura Council elections whereby thousands upon thousands flooded the poll stations to state their votes in a calm and orderly manner depicting only that this society is a mature one raised with self discipline on one hand and education in the other.

The Sultanate of Oman indeed is a place whereby newcomers can only expect peace and tranquility and where citizens will always find it a safe haven for themselves, their loved ones, their friends and families.

On a day like today – on the joyous occasion of the Sultanate's National Day – one can only expect that Omanis will always live up to the challenge; no matter how big or small.

Happy National Day celebrations to everyone…

apologies about book signing session

2007-11-16T01:37:00.000+04:00

This post was supposed to come online two days before the book signing session.

So, I apologize ever so heartedly for any inconvience caused.

I got hit by some unknown virus which semi-crippled my movement for two whole days and ended up staying at home the entire period until the end of today (Thursday). Thus, canceling my book signing session (as you may well know now).

I am truly sorry that I did not post about this earlier but I just didn't come on the net at all except to send an email to the organizer of the event telling them about canceling my participation.

On the positive side, though, I was informed that there will be indeed a March 2008 session of the very same - maybe different activities - book signing session. So, I ask that I be put down for it.

I look forward towards that day..

book signing session update

2007-11-12T16:25:00.000+04:00

Ok, so I reviewed what I got in detail about the book signing session and this is what I have so far - you'll notice a lot of things that I have mentioned before have been changed, this was due to the fact that I had only gone briefly through the document to know the major details. So please forgive me if you find it rather odd for the sudden change..

Event to be held at Jawarat Al Shatti on Thursday 15th November.

Timings: from 10am – 6pm.

Aimed at children 4years to 9 years, but with participation of older children too.

Objective is to create interest in reading and help fund a public library.

There will be a raffle held to raise funds for the library project.

Childrens’ Poster Competition of Book Reviews.

Craft activities throughout the day.

There will be included author book signings and readings.

Literacy activities (listening, speaking, writing, reading).

Prizes for best storybook character costumes.

Refreshments will be available.

Event to be advertised through media and leaflets distributed to schools.

New and used books to be sold.

Other items related to reading to be sold (letter snap, scrabble etc).

And that's pretty much what I have in information about the whole event. Hope you can all make it as it is for a good cause in the end and if you're not in it for raising the money, then just come along with your children or relatives for the fun.

Hope to see you there..

small update..

2007-11-12T02:03:00.000+04:00

Sorry I haven't been updating as usual.

I've been terribly busy with lively matters that are simply too many to mention but I will draw your attention to some of them, though.

I have been asked to participate in a book signing session this Wednesday - 15 November, 2007 - at the Jawharat Al Shatti Complex. The session will have several other writers signing off their books as well as being included in an whole day event of a child's day whereby children can have fun and play in different activities. I will be posting more details and info on this as I have it as soon as possible.

I have restarted my insurance course at the College of Banking and Finance again after a 6 week break because of a health issue. And I have to say it feels good to break the routine after staying out of contact of the human world for so long. I hope it lasts long - this feeling, that is..

I am in the process of collecting material for my third poetry book, you may find some of the poems that might be published on the new blog Pens of Passion. I won't say which ones, I'll let you keep guessing.

I have also been asked to write one last article for the Sultan Qaboos University Horizon newsletter and then I'm off. As in, let off the hook for writing for them. It seems that they had made a previous arrangement for bringing back their old writer back into the limelight after having left them for a while only to come back and claim the same position. Which means that I am out of the picture. Oh well, it was nice while it lasted. I am confident I will find somewhere else that would appreciate my writing, though.

And that's it I guess..

To-Do-List ...The Book

2007-11-09T23:05:00.001+04:00

I think I may just get this book; seems interesting enough..

from (blogspot.com) to (.com)

2007-11-09T12:31:00.000+04:00

I've recently acquired - with the help of Blue Chi - a (.com) address for Sleepless In Muscat.

So now, instead of having to point your browser to this www.sleeplessinmuscat.blogspot.com, you can directly go to www.sleeplessinmuscat.com.

I have done for this because I am beginning to get fed up with blogger's persistant maintainence and this would save me the hassle, plus I am planning to make big changes to this blog sometime soon to make it more of a general blog that would contain the updates for my other newly born blogs that you see on the sidebar.

If there's any problem regarding the feed or the website, please drop me an email.

Blue Horizon ... now open to general public access

2007-11-08T14:36:00.000+04:00

I have worked a lot on this new blog and dedicated some very good hours to understanding how I could shape it to better integrate the Arabic language. Therefore, it gives me great pleasure to announce to all of you - ladies and gentlemen of the blogosphere - my very first serious attempt on an fully dedicated Arabic-language blog: Blue Horizonالمدى الأزرق

I am hoping that this blog will indeed prosper even though I have difficulties with typing out the language as I am not accustomed to it but I am willing to take the challenge and see where it would take me.

Have a look around into the blog, you may notice a lot of grammatical, as well content and theory mistakes - but, please bare with me by pointing them out through the blog. As you all know also I have a policy of not allowing anonymous comments. I apologize in advance for this inconvience because I would rather have serious commeters who have serious issues to point out rather than flood with me with their links, or 'fun' opinions.

Do tell me what you think of the blog - it would mean a lot to me.

Hope of Islam ... now open to general public viewing

2007-11-06T04:30:00.000+04:00

After a long long debate and wait of having to think of topics and issues that surround the blog, I have decided to open up the blog Hope of Islam to general public viewing and access.

I trust that you will all treat this blog with the greatest of respect that you would give to anyone else since it is a blog that ideally relies on the topics of Islam and the fundamentals without the need to follow into any other sect.

Feel free to comment on it or leave any suggestions you may have..

"Oh My Stars!"

2007-11-05T01:58:00.000+04:00

"Polly want a [censored] cracker?"

We're all brought up a certain way by our folks, and to say that we were brought up wrongly, would be, well – just, wrong. It is the environment that that influences this bringing up on our peers, and our sociable circle and thus, us.

The two types of environment that I talk about are the direct influence group (that directly influences our behavioral change through a certain time period) and the indirect influences (which influence through a certain means or group of individuals).

But where does the act of conversation fall into? Both, I would assume, because of strong influence both groups have on a certain talk module such as word of mouth, direct individual and group relationships and external changes imposed in an direct and an indirect way on both these groups.

However, talk conversations politeness have started going from the easy-going 'Oh my Lord!' to 'Oh, [censored]!' It has become widely common to use street swear slang in normal conversations as it is to wear a sleeveless and shorts in public by both genders.

What's more worse is that we have become more tolerant to the entrance to other street swear terminologies that we have come to not object on them by the excuse of 'being cool'; or 'taking in the trend'; or even 'grasping modern day art'.

Let's face it – the art of conversation is dying taking our very own traditional linguistic high values along with it.

small step for the Omani population - one giant leap for the detoriating environment

2007-11-03T07:23:00.000+04:00

It's about time, that's what I can say.

Muscat Municipality has finally dug it's own head out of it's own trenches and looked beyond the matter of profit, and sheer dirt that is lying around it's own neighborhood by launching a small, yet, expandable, project about recycling paper waste in the educational system - starting with a number of schools.

According to the Oman Tribune:

As per the project, school books, notebooks and paper used in different student activities will be recycled. The project, in association with the Ministry of Education and the Omani Environment Association, will be first implemented in six schools in Muscat, in the wilayats of Seeb and Bausher.

Hopefully, in due time, they will expand this project to all the Sultanate of Oman and spread it not only just the educational system but on the public as well as other matters of recyclable content.

-------------------------

Link:

- Oman Tribune: Paper recycling project launched

Patrol d'France to amaze Muscat on Friday

2007-11-02T01:19:00.001+04:00

So you've heard of the Red Arrows (shown above). And you've probably been to their shows more than once if you're about as old as I am.

But it seems, this time, that on the occasion of the Omani National Day nearing - due on the November 18, 2007 - yet another airplane acrobat group has been invited to the Sultanate of Oman. The group is called Patrol d'France.

According to the small article provided by the Times of Oman;

The team has a rich history in air acrobatic shows.

On July 14, 1986, on the anniversary of the US Independence, the team presented a historic show in New York, which was hailed by the media.

In 2000, the team organised an Asian tour and in 2004 the team conducted over 45 shows within and outside France.

From September 24 to November 15, 2004, the team toured several Asian countries including the UAE, China, Malaysia, India and Jordan. The team members are famous for conducting adventurous flights.

The show can be seen above the Intercontinental Hotel in Shatti Al Qurum around 3:30pm. I am sure the place will be more than crowded by that time.

Have a go at it, enjoy the weather, the show and most of all - enjoy the fun of something you may have never seen in your life.

------------------------

Link:

- TimesofOman.com: French team to present acrobatic air show tomorrow

Economy: Oman now open to general public access

2007-10-31T00:52:00.000+04:00

Despite it is still being in it's starting phase and a little few changes remain to be tended to - I have decided to open up the newest blog in my blogroll collection; Economy: Oman.

Feel free to look around and make your comments and see what you think what can be added as an improvement, baring in mind that it is still a work in progress.

Cheers..

2nd Cup & Dar Al Atta' lend a helping hand

2007-10-31T00:44:00.000+04:00

If you're a frequent 2nd Cup visitor, chances are you already know about this.

2nd Cup has teamed up with Dar Al Atta' charity association in selling plastic wrist bands with 'HELP! Make a difference!' imprinted on them in different colors for the small price tag of R.O. 1 only.

The entire money goes directly towards the benefit of helping out the less-abled (I hate the word 'disabled' they use, it is so demeaning) people in the Sultanate of Oman by making their lives easier in any which way.

I encourage you to seek out these wrist bands and possibly buy them in bulk so that you can also spread the message of love that we owe our brothers and sisters who have been left out.

--------------------------------

PS: Does anyone know the official website address of Dar Al Atta'?

as promised..

2007-10-29T11:59:00.000+04:00

As I had promised you earlier, this is the link to the article that I proposed for the TimesofOman.com for publication, today.

Enjoy..

-------------------------

Link:

- TimesofOman.com: The Election Experience

post # 1500

2007-10-29T03:47:00.001+04:00

Well, it's been a really long ride.

1500 posts on one blog is a huge number for me, even though I am not looking to add up the number ever since I found out my fascination with writing.

But it's something to think about, eh?

Here's to the next 3500 posts. :P

Cheers everyone..

proposal - Horizon newsletter: the bigger picture

2007-10-29T02:58:00.000+04:00

This is the article I have pushed forth to be published in the upcoming edition of the SQU Horizon newsletter of this month, dated October 30, 2007.

Although it more or less talks about the same subject, I am hoping it would help open up the student eyes to future responsibilities to bared.

Do let me know what you think about it.

Cheers..

-----------------------------

The Bigger Picture

History in the making is what they called it.

A change in the path that the democratic solution for a developing country such as the Sultanate of Oman that would ever take place.

It was a day whereby both men and women over the age of 21 took in the responsibility to say that they are proud – as ever – to be an Omani. To hold their heads high with confidence to show the entire world that they are eligible of the responsibility and the educational level to take a decision into casting their votes for the first ever overall Shura Council elections to be held in the country.

It opened up the opportunity for people to actually sink in the idea of taking participation in the decision making process on an overall. For this not only meant that this was a beginning to opening up further future doors to allowing the simple Omani to take participation in electing the rightful candidate and what goes beyond such a decision. But, it also meant that one day – when the time is right – the Omani population will also come to understand the responsibilities and burdens that rest on their shoulder in making the right decision.

It was a day where Omanis – men and women, alike – took to the voting centres with one thing in mind, to make sure they made the right decision and of true understanding that their decision, by result, would make an impact on future generations to come. Whereby they would take the reins themselves to make a similar decision and most probably, more important.

But, for now – this is just the beginning.

proposal - TimesofOman.com: The Election Experience

2007-10-28T04:06:00.000+04:00

This is the article I have submitted to the TimesofOman.com website editor for publication of. I am hoping that it would .. get published, that is.

In the event it should, then I will post the link to it in another different post for your reading pleasure.

Let me know what you think of this proposal, though.

----------------------------------

The Election Experience

History was being set in this moment; a chance to make a decision in the country's overall decisions was slowly being opened up to the Omani population. That day was the day that had introduced one of the first steps towards a democratic process of selecting a candidate of a certain district or Wilaya in the Sultanate of Oman.

Many were the years we dreamt that this day would finally come and show itself, and we all know that it would take the Omani population time and effort also to understand the responsibilities and the burdens that would lie upon such an important decision-making process. It's not enough to know your know your candidate and entrust him with your loyalty and candidacy, but it was also important to understand the role that this candidate would play for people such as us in the Shura Council in raising awareness of issues that concern the public, the general state and the country in general, too.

The overall process was very easy, even though with a very high margin of people going to cast their votes for their likely candidates, holding only their National IDs in their hands and their loyalty in their hears (and a possible bottle of water in the other hand, too). People were turning up from all over the country to cast their vote at the centres, with the authorities on standby for any assistance should the need arise.

In it's entirety, it did not take more than five minutes whereby you stood in a line to wait your turn to cast a vote, where in between you were asked for your ID card; you are marked by your finger that you had indeed visited the voting centre; and you cast your vote on a nicely printed colored piece of paper where it includes the pictures, names and lined-up numbers of the candidates themselves, to which you cast your vote into a large box and leave.

I for one had imagined the process to be a bit more complicated from seeing similar voting and registration lines being formed up on the television. But I guess that is the difference between TV and Oman; it's more realistic when you get into it.

It's something I am proud of doing for the overall benefit of my country...

another private station?

2007-10-28T02:31:00.000+04:00

We already know of how there is the existing two 'oldie' radio stations on the airwaves which are state-run, and we also know that there are another two - one, supposedly, successfully established and the other, well, still on test.

But this one about having another yet another private radio station in the country is a bit too much. Can the market actually take it? And who would find time to scroll through the many different frequencies on their radio dial-tone just to get that one station?

Personally, I think if this contender aims to be on the top of the list, then they should be the top notch of their business and know exactly what they should be broadcasting.

Hopefully, they will.

-------------------------

Link:

- Oman Tribune: New radio station on the way

changing trends

2007-10-27T23:51:00.000+04:00

In a world of competition between different and various countries of the world, the battle has moved on - long ago - to between the two sexes; men and women. While men have long dominated the hardships of a career-born life for a number of reasons - respect, love and pride being on top of that list - women have long over-stepped the red lines put to them by societies and communities alike to prove one thing: that they are just as strong (and at times, better, too) at men's jobs and and they deserve the chance to take opportunities such as the ones that are vastly open to 'mankind'.

And while it's commendable for such a trend to surface up in a region such as the GCC, in general, and in a country such as the Sultanate of Oman, especially, and encouragingly, so. It's consequences go to lengths beyond imagination to which this writer tries to point out. Such as resulting in bringing down the female youth's interest in settling down and leaving the matter to a higher age and possibly (although, never proven) the reach out to other methods of 'satisfaction'.

Lifestyles have changed leading to more sicknesses, more mental problems with direct relation to work anxieties leading to an increase in depression cases and higher fatality rates in general all over the Arab world and one of the main reasons this is happening is the women's loss of interest in marriage and increased consciousness of general society welfare. This isn't to say that this is wrong. Women have a basic instinct of trying to take care of things and when put to the test, they dedicate their all to it until it is achieved even if it means isolating themselves from everything else that would distract them from that goal. Even if that means going against the society, the community in terms of legal bodies, authorities and societies at one go - just so long as they believe that they going along the path of the 'greater good'.

It is understandable that current market trends have pushed both men and women to extreme measures and fashions of the working culture, to the point whereby love, feeling and all the important things in a personal lifestyle take a backseat until a certain point in time they are brought up by 'special circumstances'. But that does not mean that it should be a permanent position that our society should ever adopt - ever.

A certain compromisation should be resolved - and desperately - before things get out of hand. A man should devote to his household as much time as he can so he can set an example to his wife, for instance, to prove that life isn't always about being 'professional'.

It is life's imperfections that let us enjoy it's fruits and, therefore, we must be willing to make sacrifices in order to embrace these fruits of our long-awaited much-need natural bliss.

Saturday is business as usual..

2007-10-25T14:36:00.000+04:00

The government has announced that it would be business as usual for anyone who works in the public sector since that would be the day that the 6th Shura Council elections. The government source also stated that anyone who takes a leave for attending the voting cast will not be penalized in their month-end salary.

It is worth mentioning that there would be around 388,000 candidates who are eligible for selection as a successful Shura Council member on which the election period would be on October 27, 2007 from 7am to 7pm at the appropriate voting casts designated for each Wilaya.

There has been, though, no news about how the private sector would deal with any Omani employee who does not attend work on that day as that day closes nearer.

--------------------

Link:

- Shabiba: 2 days to Shura race conclusion (in Arabic)

- Times of Oman: Ministries to function as usual on Majlis election day (English)

isn't bad enough to know how Gonu was handled?

2007-10-23T01:17:00.000+04:00

From the Times of Oman:

Abdullah bin Abbas bin Ahmed, chairman of Muscat Municipality and head of the main committee of Muscat Festival 2008, said yesterday that the festival would begin on January 21.

In an exclusive statement to Al Shabiba, he said the festival would include a number of new activities and the preparations for the festival would begin early, pointing out that Muscat Festival is regarded as one of the major festivals in the region, with many achievements since its inception.

Why do they go on and on with such a stupid excuse to waste money that is needed much more elsewhere?

--------------

Link:

- Times of Oman: Muscat Festival from January 21

Child Exploitation

2007-10-22T22:45:00.000+04:00

It's a shame there isn't such an agency like this in the Middle East because we need it so badly.

Don't just watch the video - spread it.

Everyone counts in this fight..

For more information about this programme - please visit this link

Games Galore now open to general public access..

2007-10-22T16:16:00.000+04:00

The latest blog that I am launching - Games Galore - is now open to general access from the public ever since it has been included into the blog roll.

Check it out if you're a fan of the latest video games that come out on the PC; Wii; X360 or the PS3.

I am more than confident that you will all like it.

Any suggestions are also welcome..

Cheers..

By Royal Decree: Journalist Club to be shut down

2007-10-21T01:15:00.000+04:00

I read this excerpt of news on the Shabiba website after the wee hours of midnight with a bit of shock and amazement as well as some frustration and confusion.

His Majesty - Sultan Qaboos bin Said - Sultan of Oman, has issued a Royal Decree, due to have an effect from October 20, 2007, to shut down the Journalist Club and move all its financial aspects to the Ministry of Information.

Something which I cannot comprehend as to why such a decision was made, even though it may not be in my place to question such a Royal Decree; but none the less, it drives one to speculate a dozen reasons as to why such a decision had been taken.

Don't you think?

---------------------------

Link:

- H.M. Issues a Royal Decree: Close down of Journalist Club and transfer of financial aspects to Ministry of Information (in Arabic)

Horizon newsletter: Success Comes From Defeat

2007-10-20T02:31:00.000+04:00

Finally, I have been able to update my article portfolio with a new one for the Horizon newsletter at the Sultan Qaboos University with a powerful article (at least, I think it is) under the title 'Success Comes From Defeat'.

I enlist it here for your reading pleasure, feel free to drop any comments about it.

-----------------------------------

A short-spend of time is a time well spent; a sentence that occurs in times of peril, difficulties, and much less ease in the small life of an individual on Earth. Something we so foolishly lack in the face of our desires and needs and forget the very reason as to why we should ever be here.

A sense of purpose, the life that we truly deserve to live by and aim for, as well on the path of seeking a soulful redemption of the mind, body and soul.

Why is it that we live to regret every single day of our lives when we could do entirely the opposite and face our fears, overcome the challenges and at the end of the day, have an undeniable sense of satisfaction that we have done what we had to do and so much more to acquire such a small goal in small period of time?

Why is it that we live with the fear that we should never push beyond the limits that we only bind ourselves by? How would we ever know how we can achieve anything if we cannot attempt? After all, success is another way of overcoming defeat; and almost nobody succeeds from the very first time.

To alter our way of thinking and the way we react to present and future events in our lives, we must be willing to change ourselves; even by drastic measures. That is not to say that we preach and bestow upon ourselves the grace that is an undeniable feature of self-perfection. But to start through ourselves by carrying out the very negativities that we hold within ourselves to inspire others to look at us as role models worthy of being followed in the footsteps of regaining the once lost confidence.

A feature that is no doubt difficult – yet, never impossible.

the story so far..

2007-10-19T00:38:00.000+04:00

Right, so here's a size-able recap on what's new with the new blogs that entered into the collective blogosphere rat race.

First off, there's a new post about the Nokia 8GB N81 on the Gadget Garage, which is one very nifty device if you ask me, something I might consider buying if it does go under the $200 US Dollar mark.

Then there's there are four new posts about different movies such as The Comebacks; Darfur Now; the Fred Claus; and finally Talk To Me on the Movie Guide blog.

If you're a fan of Eric Clapton, then you'll find his latest album - Complete Clapton - slightly reviewed on Music Control, Inc.

Of course there's been little or no progress in Pens of Passion or the Photo Generation blogs mainly because people are still unacquainted with them and/or still are in the Eid holiday moods. So feel free to browse them and if you care to join them, you can always email me about it.

The Ramadan Kareem blog has been put on hold until next year by Shaykhspeara Sha'ira since the celebrative mood of the holy month has moved on.

If you're a fan of poetry, then you can still review my old poetry collection on the Rapidly Blue blog.

Then there's of course the participation that I have in both A Secret Arabian Journal & the UAE Arabic Community Blog.

So, that's the round-up this time.

Until next week; happy blogging..

have you got a 'HateBook' account?

2007-10-18T01:07:00.000+04:00

This is so funny.

I was just browsing the BBC world service site and found this by coincidence.

Apparently, someone has invested the popularity of the famous facebook service that has been recently acquired by Google and launched something similar only quite the opposite in purpose: Hatebook.com.

Check it out..

Gadget Garage open to public access

2007-10-17T00:43:00.000+04:00

I have finally opened up general public access to the latest renovated blog experience to Gadget Garage.

On it, and in due time, too; you will find the latest news that I can find about gadgets, technology and software that is or will ever come out in the many years to come of humanity's rise above the evolution pattern.

Take a look and tell me what you think, and I am sure you will find it to your liking whether you're a buff or a beginner.

Cheers..

the foiled Omani telecommunication industry

2007-10-17T00:18:00.000+04:00

Things are getting a bit turbulent in the telecommunications sector here in Oman, things like how well the service is becoming and how bad each competitor needs a good section of the pie. And this time it's not just about one of the companies in the leading branded mobile technology. But it's more of how well the two of them (Nawras; Oman Mobile) are both handling their customer share and the services they provide them with.

Oman Mobile has always had it's issues ever since I can remember, things like service, accuracy, compensation for lost service, try outs, and most of all prices were always hideous (at least in my opinion). Nawras sort of cleared up the picture through its clarification of service list against price, better customer service but are still lacking - as Muscati would say - the innovative edge to lure the present mobile customer from one network to another.

And no time like the present has been more clearer than now through this philosophy. As the troubles have started to begin with the Nawras networkd during the last Eid holiday (which is still an issue to be resolved, mind you) because almost all your calls are disconnected because the network is always busy. A new service that has been launched by the mobile telecommunications company similar that of to the one by Oman Mobile to have a caller ring tone and even though it is a bit cheaper by the minute through instruction time, the lack of options, the mere boredom of having to listen to an automated voice repeating itself all over again and again plus the issue of having to pay for something that has only been launched through an SMS service is somewhat disgraceful for a company that boasts about being the number one customer-orientated company in this form of technology in my opinion.

So if you're asking me if I still like Nawras as my mobile telecommunications provider; I would say no. But if you asked me if I would like to come back to the previous mobile company; my answer would be a 'Hell, no'.

This was an opinionated post.

Prince of Persia 4 coming 2008

2007-10-14T19:05:00.000+04:00

Finally, we have some concrete evidence to now that there indeed has been a behind-the-back development on the famous all time game series that this generation (and the past) had ever come to see.

Ubisoft can deny all they like, but we have them red-handed right now after they had managed to keep a lid on the subject for oh so long. But folks we have proof that a new Prince of Persia game is all set to have it's launch around late 2008 with a title that could surround the vibe of what was previously posted on this blog as being 'Ghosts of the Past' to be set as a prequel to the older Prince of Persia: Sands of Time/Warrior Within/The Two Thrones series.

What's more you can find two screens from an early build for the game with Surfer Girl reporting that

'...stylistically and gameplay-wise, the game has abandoned the dark edginess of the last two titles in favor a fantastical cross between The Sands of Time, Ico and Zelda.'

With work also on the way to have the second part of the said new trilogy by 2009 in time for the Prince of Persia movie release set by action premiere Hollywood producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Walt Disney studios.

----------

Links:

- Surfer Girl: Exclusive - Prince of Persia 4 Screens and Information

- Gamespot News: Prince of Persia prequel trilogy unearthed?

announcing..

2007-10-14T16:24:00.000+04:00

Since I never got the chance to produce anything in the blog that was supposed to focus on the religious and cultural aspects of 'celebrating' Ramadhan that has just passed us by due to many circumstances, I have gone and changed the blog from the root.

The result is what you see you above and you can access also through the newly revamped Photo Generation blog that was once Ramadhan Spirit.

Check it out and let me know what you think about the idea and concept. If you'd also like to contribute then by all means you're most welcome.

Cheers..

so, now what's new?

2007-10-13T04:03:00.000+04:00

As you may have slightly noticed; I have done a little tidying around here and there in the blogosphere.

I have renamed the Ramadhan Spirit blog to another of my choice that would most seemingly interest every single one on this planet. But can't tell what's it name is yet.

The other yet mysterious blog that I have launched is hereby dubbed Gadget Garage - something to do with everything in the tech world. I have only opened it to an elite number of people to get their opinion on it. But it'll be open soon enough.

The third announcement is that I am now officially back onto the list of contributers of the UAE Arabic Community Blog. At least they are interested in good articles and have a respect for people's mind and sanity in this insane world we live.

That's all for now, I guess.

ain't that the truth

2007-10-12T08:50:00.001+04:00

Source: Al Watan Dated: 12/10/2007

yet.. another blog in the making

2007-10-12T03:59:00.000+04:00

Yes, you can boo me all your like. But it's not like it will ever stop me.

This time I establishing a new blog of which, if your are smart enough, you will tell in a second, which one it is.

The picture above is what it looks like - for now.

But once it's open for general public and fully stored up, you will find it up to date on ...oops. Almost did it.

See you there!

What The Hell: Omanis are throwing their folks into housing homes?

2007-10-11T15:56:00.000+04:00

This is exactly what's happening under our very noses.

I wonder if any of you are actually doing it, or even - under any excuse; justified or otherwise - then shame on you.

Reported by the Gulf News:

The elderly are being forced to live a lonely life as an unfortunate impact of rapid urbanisation - thus the government is gearing up to take care of the ageing population, said Barka Al Bakry, an Omani social worker.

Furthermore:

"The Health Ministry is gearing up for such an eventuality because a lot of children drop their elderly parents or relatives at hospital and eventually abandon them," Al Bakry told Gulf News.

She said that in the past Omani families took care of their extended family.

"Unfortunately, now the increasing needs of an individual is gradually tearing society's fabric. People want to buy luxury cars or go on holidays and thus have little time for elderly people."

Are you people getting this? You have all the luxury of the world at your fingertips, and yet you still have no time for your parents?

It must because you hang out with your friends so much, or can't take care of them because of the big new business idea that's flourishing away. This is, in my opinion, one of the many disadvantages of the development process, we want to have this and leave the rest. Moving from rural to urban cities leaves those places unprocessed and underdeveloped. Our poor parents have it worse - by getting a bite in the ass - that's how.

And what's more worse, the government is stepping in to accommodate to those needs.

"The aims of such services are to support older people and their families in maintaining an independent lifestyle in the familiar surrounding of their communities," he said.

He added the ministry had already taken several initiatives in relation to elderly citizens.

"A home for elderly people has been set up in Nizwa with the collaboration of the Ministry of Social Development," he said.

He said another home health care project had been doing very well since 2004 in the Al Amerat area of Muscat.

I do not for one accept such an adoption legal because the government is taking a responsibility that is supposed to be on the shoulders of the children that be damned for leaving them at such places. I would it unlawful to do so, too. After all, is this what we Omanis were taught by our traditions? By our religion? Is this what Islam taught us to do in taking care of the elderly?

I am astonished. Absolutely dumbfounded.

from Your Choice of Music to Music Control, Inc.

2007-10-10T23:13:00.000+04:00

I've done a slight change to the name of the musical blog that hasn't been paid attention to so far due to my fault neglecting it over this last vast period.

You will now that the blog no longer stands as "Your Choice of Music", since I thought it was a bit draggy and more centre than a creative stance to what a musical blog should be called.

So, now, I am trying this odd one for size to see the reaction from everyone and what they would say about it. Having said that.

Ladies and gentleman of the blogosphere, I hereby present to you the new name of the musical blog "Music Control, Inc."

Tell me what you really think of it through any angle, please. I am begging to hear a tone to this deaf ear.

can you say: Oops?

2007-10-10T16:51:00.000+04:00

From the Oman Tribune:

Foreign security guards killed two women on Tuesday, opening fire on their car in the centre of the Iraqi capital and then speeding off “like gangsters,” witnesses and Iraqi security officials said.

The shooting in Karrada came two days after Iraq vowed to punish US security firm Blackwater after a probe found that its guards were not provoked when they opened “deliberate” fire in Baghdad three weeks ago, killing 17 Iraqis.

Dubai-based security company Unity Resources Group (URG) said one of its security teams was involved in the shooting.

Shopkeeper Ammar Fallah, a witness to the Tuesday’s shooting, said the guards, who were escorting a civilian convoy through the streets, signalled for a woman driving a white Oldsmobile car to pull over as they passed.

“When she failed to do so they opened fire, killing her and the woman next to her,” he said. “There were two children in the back seat but they were not harmed. The women were both shot in the head.” Iraqi officials confirmed the incident, which occurred at the Masbar intersection in Karrada.

Oh boy. I do not want to be in their shoes right now - Like; ouch, man.

Eid Mubarak .. everyone

2007-10-09T15:34:00.000+04:00

After having come back from hospital once again in a dreadful state of health. I can only say that it is just great to get out of that environment and sickness feeling that someday you too, would be gone.

But never mind that, right now.

It's time to focus on the present and leave the future to what would be.

Therefore, in the news that Eid Al Fitr is just around the bend, I would like to congratulate every single one of you on this auspicious occasion, wishing you and all your loved ones, and family a wonderful Eid Mubarak.

May God praise with many happy times, and fill your souls with the much needed happiness that every one of us needs these days.

should we sue Muscat Municipality?

2007-10-05T20:01:00.000+04:00

Everyone in the Sultanate of Oman, especially in the modern capital of Muscat is more than aware of the development projects that are happening around in and out of the capital. But this post is focusing on one of them in the Qurum 29 area. The one where there are just about 20 Earth-breakers breaking down a mountain behind a moderately-high populated area.

Why is this is so important?

For one, it has been more than 'just a few months' and all you can ever hear in that area is the ground-breaking noise that goes on for the entire 24 hours restlessly, hardly breaking for a few dawn hours to rest before they resume at around 6am all over again. Causing the entire neighborhood to shatter below their noise just to 'get their work done'.

Secondly, the dust that accumulates. Now, imagine the workers with their masks and how they are suffering by being in direct contact with such pollution, never the mind that this dust blows also into the air and moves on to the villas that are below the mountain level causing dusting of the private property, automobiles, and probably making it an unsafe environment for the children to play in the closeness that their own back yards provide.

Thirdly - and more importantly - the matter of creepy crawlies. Last night I found a scorpion inside my bedroom of which I had to kill to provide myself the safety that I can live through the night without having to dream of where that simple, yet, very deadly creature could cause from a single sting of it's tail.

You don't find scorpions inside houses. In fact, you never find them inside houses; according to an environmentalist expert - my father. So then, why was this one here?

Explanation?

Due to the breaking down of the mountain area above the houses, all matter of creepy crawlies have had to seek refuge someplace else, therefore, endangering lives of citizens that have little or no knowledge whatsoever over how to deal with them, should they get infected.

So, then, it is without a doubt that Muscat Municipality's workers are causing all these problems. But what is one to do about it? A letter was written to one of the local newspapers in an attempt to highlight the issue. By that time there was only 4-5 pieces of machinery. After the article got published, not two days later was the arrival of the humongous cavalry of machines to 'speed up' things.

So, the question sets itself again: what should we do?

Pens of Passion open to general public

2007-10-03T23:04:00.000+04:00

I have finally opened up general public access to the newest blog that I have established under the title Pens of Passion.

This is a collaborative blog that would invite anyone with a talent for writing, be it something such as an article, a piece of poetry, or maybe even a short story - in any language. All is all welcome. Just surf over to the blog and email me there if you're still interested and we'll sign you up quicker than you can say .. well... quicker than you can say anything, really.

Come.. and breathe in the air of ... passion.

TimesofOman.com: Struggle Against Odds

2007-10-01T13:07:00.000+04:00

This is the new article that has just been published onto the TimesofOman.com website. The article is under the title "Struggle Against Odds". I hope you all enjoy reading it.

If you do have any thoughts about it, do let me know.

------------------------

Life isn't always perfect for us – in fact – it has never been since the dawn of time. We take for granted what these troublesome times actually do to us in the sense of shaping our personality, our endurance towards future difficulties, and perhaps a better mind in judgment.

Some of imperfect timings in our life also allow us to better value things in our life that we never thought we could, one day, go one day without. The bitter and sore experience of cyclone Gonu taught us that in many ways on how to be ready for worst possible scenario.

We're blinded by the illusion that everything comes to us easily without a simple care in the world. But behind every action we make, there is a consequence to which is taking place –– slowly, but steadily.

The environment around us is a good example of such a phenomenon. Back in the late 1980s, scientists believed that the earth's atmosphere would eventually be terrorized by toxic fumes through the extensive use of CFCs, burning the rain forests and more so the expanded killing of wild animals for mere fun and enjoyment.

The public laughed at their predictions back then. But as we see now, there is nothing to laugh about, as the global warming issue takes a world debate to ensure the safety of earth's inhabitants and the safety of the resources that are slowly degrading population-wise.

God gave a mind to each and every human being on this earth and asked us all to use it in making the good choice in differentiating between what is right and wrong. In the struggle against the odds, we are at a crossroads of choices of balancing what is needed and we want, as a nation, as a race, and as survivalists.

In this struggle, we should choose the path of the greater good for the sake of the future before we make the ultimate disaster a reality.

Horizon newsletter: Experiencing Ramadhan

2007-09-30T16:59:00.000+04:00

This is the latest article that I had sent off to the Horizon newsletter for publication; I haven't had word if it has or hasn't. So, I'll just post it here for your enjoyment and reading pleasure until I do.

Let me know what you think of it..

------------------------------

Experiencing Ramadhan

To think that a month alone could change someone's behavior is somewhat naive in the sense that without taking the proper measures or procedures to actually grasp what such a month, such as Ramadhan can hold in terms of benefits for the human body, mind and soul.

For it holds the power to lift you up, only if you are willing to be lifted, there is no such thing as being elevated above the ground to be on 'road of glory' or any fictional path we may have conjured up in our heads.

Ramadhan is an experience that should be taken in with broad arms for an education that crosses vastly beyond modern information and what it has come to from the beginning of time to this very minute.

It is an experience that should be reached out to, no matter what obstacles stand in our way. For a soul and mind is entrapped in the body that needs to be nourished the right source of information and Ramadhan is a perfect timing for such a thing to happen.

Between now and then, Ramadhan has changed a lot in the society; it seems to have moved from the spiritual meaning of life and all its endeavors to the materialistic needs and wants of today's families.

Is it not time, we rekindle the affair we long always had with Ramadhan once again?

new post on 'Your Choice of Music'

2007-09-28T16:03:00.000+04:00

I've just updated the blog 'Your Choice of Music' with another post about the MTV VMAs 2007 (Video Music Awards).

Feel free to go there and check out the post along with the blog's contents.

I know it's Ramadhan and all, but a little improvement is on the way to that blog, things are taking kind of a slow pace on my blogs as I mentioned earlier in one of my posts but surely enough, come after Eid holidays, things will be back to normal, inshallah.

To check the new post, click here.

something eery going on here..

2007-09-28T15:56:00.000+04:00

There's something very fishy going on here and I intend to put a stop to it.

There's someone around the blogosphere that is going around copying my ideas off my blogs and putting it in their style in an indirect manner. I don't, for one second, want to have to name anyone around here, but if my theory is correct, then there'll be a very long legal battle between me and this so-called blogger.

I don't like it not one bit.

If you like my material then it doesn't hurt you to ask me if you can put it on your blog, but then to come out of the blue right after I start the idea only to have the same idea isn't plain coincidence, it's bloody lack of creativity from your side.

You know who you are, and if I catch you - so help me God - I will make sure you burn down to the ground.

Movie Guide - Oman open to public

2007-09-26T16:54:00.000+04:00

This is just to notify you all that I have thrown the doors open to public access to the newly established blog Movie Guide - Oman.

Only registered bloggers are allowed to comment on my blogs to stop anyone from spamming, or posting insulting comments on them. I regret this procedure throws people who wish to keep their identity hidden into a corner. But I have no choice, as it is permanent.

Many thanks for your understanding and hope you like the new blog; please don't hesitate to drop any suggestions, complaints whatsoever at my email.

Thank you again.

PS: There is a new post on the blog about an upcoming movie, should this interest you.

'where's that new post?'

2007-09-26T03:05:00.000+04:00

It's not much you get asked about howcome you're never around to do your job unless you're actually dodging it, which, in my case, is not what is happening - obviously.

I never had the time to do anything I wanted because I had just come out of hospital so I just took a cruise with an old friend of mine for a little time, then came back and published the post you see below this one and went to sleep.

I was knackered as Hell, I couldn't breathe well because of pulputations, and I sweating like nobody's business for some reason (apart from the fact that it was hot when I did go out). But I was determined on getting my things done and never ending up again in the hospital - not even for a simple cold.

Three weeks out of your life all messed up is just too much to compensate and I am not planning to ever make that same mistake again.

Ever.

two new blogs

2007-09-25T18:11:00.001+04:00

This is just to let you know that I have established two new blogs, one of which is my answer to the ridicule that happened over at a blog that I had established and, thus is called; Pens of Passion. A blog totally dedicated to writing about anything and everything in whichever manner seems readable and raises attention whether it is personal or political, you name it.

The other blog is one that aims to offer a complete guide of what movies there are to offer from anywhere in the globe - hopefully - not lacking the synopsis and where you can get the movie from whether online or outside the Sultanate of Oman, including those of movie theatre releases; olden goldies and the best of the best. This blog is under the name of Movie Guide - Oman.

Both blogs are now still under construction and therefore access to them has been denied to the general public. Hopefully, this would change after the Eid holidays.

Horizon newsletter: inspirative society

2007-09-24T19:43:00.000+04:00

The new article in the Horizon newsletter has been published some 4 days ago under the title 'Inspirative Society'.

Hope you all like it - share your thoughts and comments if any.

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Inspirative Society

It is known that education is an important and integral part of the developing mind in order to come to a certain level that would push forth the creative and practical purpose of mankind to rise up the sophistication of human kind the world over in certain period of time.

However, every person – due their societal, environmental, and behavioral differences – perceive the level education in their own way. Some may think that studying a major that is irrelevant to their environment is waste of time, effort and money. Others like to see it as an extra benefit to them and their society. It is perception that holds us back or pushes us forth into accepting or rejecting the true purpose of a subject – whether we, as individuals, like it or not.

The true purpose of education, therefore, lies within the secret that it is a reform of the individual mind. Correcting and perhaps building upon existing data that we had already learnt in past years.

Education is also a tool of empowerment; not just towards seeking employment at a company or a governmental ministry, but also towards building a new generation with new, creative ideas on how to solve problems, reverse faults and after effects and help the current community grasp and endure what it is lagging behind.

In short, education can be seen as a tool towards building an inspirative society. One that would inspire other future generations to build upon the mechanism of a fundamentally strong society with sustainable growth and development.

Rising from the ashes..

2007-09-24T19:42:00.001+04:00

Horizon newsletter: Life

2007-09-13T22:00:00.000+04:00

The Horizon newsletter has finally resumed publishing my articles after such a long wait.

This article was published on Tuesday evening/Wednesday morning.

Check it out and let me know what you think of it.

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La Bruyere once said; "Life is a tragedy for those who feel and a comedy for those who think."

One too many times we are caught in a gap of time whereby everything in our lives goes wrong, things that we have set our minds to and hoped to achieve one day. We get caught in those moments not because of what we know we are going to miss in the future but because we are focusing our entire energies on what misery has been set upon us.

A child that runs along the ground falls on his face only to get up, smiling, laughing – why should we be any different? Does it really take the innocence of an infant to keep us in our tracks and set us again on our destined paths?

Life isn't life if we were to smile, laugh and playfully enjoy all our times, simply because we would never learn anything in our life and what experiences we could ever meet in times to come. Therefore, the miseries that we are bound by – just as much as the happy moments that pass us by – are nature's way of striking a balance, even though it would seem that things are quite unfair to us in the most hideous ways.

It is wrong to forgo the chance to become a great personality in submission to anything that comes our way. In the way that most people who give up easily are surely bent on their short term needs and have no idea of what the bigger picture is all about. It is those who are bent on using their passion more than their minds in the obstacles that they need to overcome. Thus, allowing them to repeatedly be 'stabbed' in the heart over and over again because they indulge their hearts into the issues at hand more than they care to look at it in a much bigger perspective.

For what is true and what is not; the mind cannot bare. The life; the solitude; the feelings we care not to share. For what life has in store; it has in store for us all. And with it lies the truth; that awaits us all.

on the other hand..

2007-09-13T15:58:00.000+04:00

Nawras is celebrating Ramadhan this year with a few good tricks up it's sleeve.

In addition to the annual 'Nawras Goodwill Journey - 3' that promotes giving back to the society as part of being of one being a responsible telecommunications organization; Nawras has also unleashed a few offers to public and made other subscribers green with envy by offering 10 baizas/per minute for any call made any day of the week between 2-5pm between any two Nawras subscribers (offer found here).

Then there's the new acquisition of value-added services that allows Nawras subscribers to dedicate a song, or a funny voice message, or a text message or even chat through SMS through the new NawrasChat service at the nominal charge of 10bzs/per text. Along with with availability of the traditional, yet exciting services that Nawras has to offer such as downloading themes, games, ringtones, wallpapers and video cards (offer found here).

This year; Nawras really does bring the true meaning of it's slogan - Get Closer.

my tribute to OmanTel ..

2007-09-13T15:37:00.001+04:00

This is my tribute to OmanTel since they're so damn good at their job.

Big UPs to OT! :P