Archive for April, 2008

Are there Two J Authors in the Deuteronomist History?

Monday, April 28th, 2008

By Sharon White If the first opinion is correct, and it seems to be so because they are stylistically similar, then it is quite possible that all the other 6 books might have been a part of Deuteronomy. One of the most prominent Kings in the Deuteronomist History is Josiah. The son of great king David, Josiah himself became a king when he was only 8 years of age. He was very righteous in the eyes of the Lord. After Hilkiah the high priest discovers the Book of Covenant (2 Kings 22:8), Josiah get rids of the household gods, the idols, the mediums and spiritists, pagan priests and temples. He listens to the words of the Book of the Law and gets very upset: neither he nor his fathers have obeyed and acted in accordance with whats written in that Book. Josiah tears his robe. God is pleased with that. Although Hes still angry, God forgives Josiah and promises that his eyes wont see all the disaster that He-God will bring on the place. Now Josiah actually is one of the best Kings. He can be compared to Moses only in his holiness. Hes great in comparison to Solomon, who messed up his relationship with God by having too many foreign wives. Hes even greater than David, his father, who also had spoiled Lords attitude towards him by messing with Uriah the Levites wife, and later sending the soldier to death. Other kings were a complete mess. Josiah was the one to start a reform in the government centralization of religion. He closed all the religious centers around the country and made Jerusalem a Mecca for religious tourism. The Book of the Law thanks to him became a part of Old Testament and a part of the Deuteronomy Book. Josiah also changed the celebration of the Passover tradition. It was celebrated by Samuel in a very important religious center, Shiloh (priests of Moses perhaps they were the actual creators of the Code of Law, as it cares about them more than of the kings; 1 Samuel 1:3-24); by Davids family in Bethlehem. Deuteronomy says you have to celebrate Passover in some special, God chosen place. If God hesitates and doesnt choose one on time, then the holiday can be celebrated in various places. Josiah is also supposed to be the one who fulfilled a three hundred year old prophecy, so hes a really special one for the Jews. In 2 Samuel 7:1-17, through Nathan the prophet, God gives David His Promise. He promises to take care of Davids offspring, help him establish his kingdom, as Davids kid is going to be the one who shall build a temple in the Lords name. And the throne of his kingdom God promises to establish forever. Abijah King of Judah and the ancestor of David committed all the sins his father had done before him; he was not as concerned about God as David had been. But David had done what was right in the eyes of the Lord, so God could not break the promise given to Abijahs forefather and still made Israel a strong kingdom. But later despite of Gods promise Judah gets destroyed by the king of Babylon (and the temple built by Solomon as well). That happens because of Manasseh who sinned against God including shedding innocent blood. God simply could not forgive him for filling Israel with the blood of innocent (2 Kings 24:2-18, 25:1-26). Almost forgot to mention Solomons Covenant with God. Solomon has been the king of Israel for more than forty years, and he built a temple dedicated to God. God was very nice to inform Solomon though that in case he or his sons turn away from God and stop observing his commands and decrees, He shall then cut Israel off the land given by the Lord, reject the temple that has been consecrated in His name. Solomon turned out to be an OK king, not as great as David, but still fine, better than some of his descendents. The author of the Deuteronomst History series could be Jeremiah. His father was a high priest (Hilkiah), one of the Moses descendents (Anathoth priests), and among his friends were: Ahikam the son of Josiahs secretary and Jeremiahs own secretary Baruch, who served him as a typewriter. So they were quite close to the king. I could be the king himself, but that is the version that is harder to prove. Another assumption may be, that it was Baruch himself, but it would be hard to imagine as Jeremiah only could be the source of information for him. As the original law was destroyed in fire, Ezra had performed the duty of a final redactor.He copied the remaining stuff down and the rest he claims to have been dictated to him by the voice from the bush. He claims that God visited him and gave him inspiration to write it the way it always had been. He rewrote the Jewish tradition two centuries after the birth of Christ. Its even hard to believe it. He took all the different sources and compiled them together. He had no right to miss a single source otherwise the book could be called not real. He put all the stories together so that the difference was not seen. The article was produced by the member of masterpapers.com. Sharon White has many years of a vast experience in freelance writing, custom research paper writing and term paper writing consulting. Feel free to send her your inquiries at Essay Writing Service. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sharon_White http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-there-Two-J-Authors-in-the-Deuteronomist-History?&id=260214 free credit report witout using a credit card free credit score no credit card needed free credit score instantly credit report check

Tooth Whitening: Enrich Your Everlasting Smile

Thursday, April 24th, 2008

By Nandeshori Devi Konthoujam It is well known fact that face is the index of mind and shiny teeth play a significant role brightening ones facial appearance. A lovely smile is the perfect impression one may possess and an attractive smile is enhances by the lustrous teeth. One can win the hearts of the intermingling people very easily with a glossy smile. Teeth do have a natural color and enamel is the outer protective layer of it. Tooth whitening is the safe and gentle way of eliminating discolorations and stains on the teeth rather improving its natural color. Tooth whitening is also termed as tooth bleaching and this endeavor can be done once the person attains his permanent set of teeth. This basically aims at brightening the pigmentation in the teeth. Anyone who wishes to own a confident smile can go for improving brightness of the teeth. But one must carefully consult the expert dentist for help as the health of the teeth must not be washed out at the cost of a lovely smile. The most common and well known technique of tooth whitening is the professional bleaching where carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide is used in removing the stains. The dentist will decide the treatment technique on diagnosing the cause and depth of discoloration of the teeth. The natural color of the teeth may be wipe out by different causes like smoking, drinks like coffee, tea, red wine etc. and even some antibiotics taken for some different purpose may developed stain beneath the teeth. Professional tooth whitening efforts does not affect the structure, enamel, restorations and bonding of the tooth. The active ingredient used in this technique act only on the decolorizing molecules breaking the deposits in the dentin and enamel and confiscates the debris. There is no discomfort at all in this technique but sensitivity to some factors like heat, cold, pressure may experience that will be fine on completion of the treatment. The effect of tooth whitening remains for longer duration in the non smokers and who are devoid of coffee, tea consumption. The dentist will assist first in the treatment and one can continue further tooth whitening treatment at home under the direction of the dentist. Everyone is brushing their teeth as normal habit that itself is a tooth whitening effort. There are several whitening toothpastes in the market that does not hamper the teeth enamel and adjoining gums and other related structures in the mouth. Choosing appropriate toothpaste and best quality tooth brush is must. Tooth whitening is it essential for our health? Why most people are after tooth whitening and how can we get our tooth brightens? Log on http://www.wellbeingnew.com/ for getting your answer. Nandeshori Devi Konthoujam has been associated with various sites like http://www.aboutlivingmylife.com/ for articles on health related and various topics. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nandeshori_Devi_Konthoujam http://EzineArticles.com/?Tooth-Whitening:-Enrich-Your-Everlasting-Smile&id=249418 erase negative credit bad-credit alternative mortgage lenders for bad credit experian credit report view my credit report online free

Understanding Your Heroic Journey

Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008

By Saleem Rana Everyone on this planet is on their own particular heroic journey, an archetypal journey of the hero or heroine that has been portrayed throughout recorded time in the mythology of the world. Here is a brief explanation of the meaning of the archetypes used to describe the heroes journey. It begins with departure from the known or conventional, from consensual reality. It proceeds onto initiation. And it culminates in our return to tell others about the lessons of our adventures, and hopefully to provide a map to those who may follow. During the departure stage, there is a call to adventure, a sudden understanding that things are going to change. This call disrupts a comfortable routine and the person often feels inadequate and unprepared for the journey. However, once a decision is made to take the leap into the unknown, supernatural aid appears. This is usually in the form of meeting the right people or stumbling upon some necessary new information or resources that will initiate the journey. Once the first threshold is crossed, the journey begins in earnest. And it is now when the hero or heroine finds themselves in the belly of the whale, which is a time of metamorphosis, an entry into a dark place where the skills learned before the journey no longer work. Now begins the initiation. Before the transformation can occur, trials, tests, and heavy ordeals must be borne. Failure is now the norm because the new has to be explored through trial and error. As the trials proceeds, the Goddess is met. This is a symbol for unconditional love and acceptance of self, a renewal of self-unification, an amplification of intention. Then, something unexpected happensthe temptress is met. This in world mythology has been personified to be a woman. It comes to symbolize the desire to be seduced by the lure of what once existed, the comfort of returning to the known. If this temptation is resisted, then something else has to be confronted in its place: atonement with the Father. This means that one has to die to the old in order to fully assume the powers of the new. An incredible power is met and surrendered too. Only in this way can the old self die so that the new self, the transformed one, can live. Once this condition is met, there is an apotheosis, deification. A heavenly state is attained; the person becomes divine in some way. With this transformation, the ultimate boon is granted, the Holy Grail is found, the journey is successfully completed and what the person came to get has been secured. After this, however, the return has to take place. Again, as in the very beginning, there is a deep reluctance. There is an initial refusal to return. Sometimes, too, once one has secured the goal, one must escape from the jealous guardians of the secret that has been won. Now, with the journey in its descent, after reaching a lofty ascent, the hero or heroine once again is in need of guides and assistants on how to return. Again, too, a threshold has to be crossed, this time back to where the person came from. Now the person has become master of two worlds, the new and the old, or the inner and the outer. A new freedom to live has been experienced. All of us travel through these three stages, with their numerous substrates, when we begin and complete the heroic journey. When a new mother has her first child, when a young person secures their first job, when a traditionally employed person leaps to become an entrepreneur, when a writer sets to create a new book, or when somebody goes to a specialist to seek healing for a wounded psychethe heroic journey begins. Mythology speaks of this journey and gives us all a map on what the stages of it are. Understanding the symbols behind the myths help us complete our own particular journey. Without truly grasping the import of the heroic journey, as told throughout time and transmitted via the language and traditions of diverse people, we may not recognize that we are all heroes, and we may either get lost along the way or shirk the completion of our unique quest. People can be obvious outer heroes, whose name and accomplishment are made known as significant points in history; and they can also be inner heroes, spiritual adventurers seeking a refinement of sensibility that leads to deep spiritual understanding; and they can be you and I, as we step into a new phase in our lives where we must transform ourselves because vital structures of our lives have collapsed and something new has to be grasped. Saleem Rana is a psychotherapist in Denver, Colorado. Free audio interviews on the secrets of achievement by some of the greatest success legends and free e-books on how to get what you want are available at http://www.theempoweredsoul.com/enter.html Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Saleem_Rana http://EzineArticles.com/?Understanding-Your-Heroic-Journey&id=103137 bad credit get a loan buy a used infiniti g35x with bad credit facts about credit counseling services and affect on credit report is my credit rating good or bad

Inexpensive Wedding Favors

Monday, April 21st, 2008

By Kevin Stith Wedding favors are tokens of love and gratitude given to guests who had participated in a wedding. These have a very important place in wedding planning and the couple has to find the least possible cost for wedding favors. Inexpensive wedding favors are usually selected from a variety of homemade, personalized and unique wedding favors. The favorites are homemade wedding favors which can reduce the cost drastically. The most common inexpensive wedding favor is preparing a small gift of almonds. This can be beautifully wrapped in an elegant fabric. Another inexpensive way is to prepare flower seed packets in transparent covers with small cards attached with ribbons. Candles used as wedding favors is another cheap way of saying thank you. These can be decorated candles tied with an attractive ribbon. Homemade bookmarks are another possibility of inexpensive wedding favors. These custom designed bookmarks can be attached with personal messages. Simple place cards, place card holders and frames made at home with cheap material are cheap wedding favors too. Wedding favor cards and tags are other inexpensive wedding favors. Favor cards include a thanks message to the guests. Fresh flowers can be used at the guests’ tables and after the wedding; they may also be given to the guests to take home. Inexpensive wedding favors can also be products of a hobby or interest of the bride or the groom. Inexpensive personalized wedding favors also include personalized candies, mints, candles, napkins, playing cards and flower cards. Coffee wedding favors and tea wedding favors with custom designed labels are other inexpensive wedding favors. Monogrammed and foil wrapped chocolates, medium sized seashells with candies, small wedding mint tins, miniature frames, heart-shaped soaps, petite handbags and sugar stars can be added to the list of inexpensive wedding favors. Wedding favors are there because it is a time-honored tradition and the sharing of feelings between the couple and the guests is the keyword here and it does not depend on the price. Wedding Favors provides detailed information on Wedding Favors, Cheap Wedding Favors, Unique Wedding Favors, Personalized Wedding Favors and more. Wedding Favors is affiliated with Cheap Wedding Invitations . Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Stith http://EzineArticles.com/?Inexpensive-Wedding-Favors&id=354331 ge money line of credit for debt consolidation credit repair letters national bank of canada debt consolidation credit report how to

Ladies, Forget about Online Dating Sites with Personality Tests

Saturday, April 19th, 2008

By Ronnie Ann Ryan February’s Atlantic Monthly includes a 10 page cover story about online dating. The piece focused on how more sites are mimicking the eHarmony personality test method to match members and working with experts/researchers from academia. PerfectMatch has Dr. Pepper Schwartz from University of Washington, eHarmony hired Galin Buckwalter from University of Southern California, and Chemistry.com (Match.com’s new site) has Dr. Helen Fischer from Rutgers University. Personality Tests are the Newest Answer for Finding Love Each researcher, whether from a psychological or sociological standpoint, explained how their personality test did a wonderful job of finding the compatibility factors to improve results. Two used the famous Myer’s Briggs Type Indicator as the basis for their work, while eHarmony’s Dr. Neil Clark Warren came up with his own methodology. Dramatic Flaw in Research Yet, all of this research has at least one dramatic flaw that no one is discussing: Regardless of scientific theory, the process can only work if MEN ARE WILLING TO PARTICIPATE. From my own personal experience and as a professional dating coach, I have found that men are visual when it comes to dating, not cerebral. Will Men Fill Out the Questionnaire? So the question becomes how many men are willing to fill out a questionnaire with 436 or even 136 inquiries? Definitely not the same number as women. Keep in mind that 75% of the self-help books are purchased by women. Drawing a parallel from other dating avenues, Speed Dating (8MinuteDating.com, Hurrydate.com, etc.) organizers have trouble running events for the 45+ crowd since they need equal number of both sexes. No problem getting the ladies to register, just the men. Research is Invalid So the research in essence becomes moot or invalid. The best matching system can only be effective if both sexes are willing to participate. Just like vitamins, they only work if you are willing to take them. Some Success for Women Under 30 I must admit that I have run into a few women who have had success with eHarmony, but they’re always under 30. It’s quite possible that younger men are more willing to invest the time to take advantage of this new science. If anyone out there has had a different experience, please let me know! What’s a 40+ Woman to Do? You can take one of two approaches. If you’re really sold on the matching systems these sites offer, then go ahead and sign up. But please manage your expectations of what will happen and be willing to try another approach to meet men at the same time. The other suggestion is to use the traditional larger sites like Match.com, YahooPersonals, Love on AOL, or AmericanSingles.com. And, if you are over 55, why not try senior dating sites? Type “senior dating” into Google and see how many entries pop up! These sites are very active and aren’t just for retirees. Plus, you won’t need to worry about competing with all those younger women because they won’t be on those sites! Use Other Methods to Find Love I hope you’ll take my advice because I’d like to save you the shock of an eHarmony email that states: “We’re sorry, but there are no matches for you in our data base.” That’s because there aren’t enough men, not because you are unmatchable! Steer clear of sites that use personality tests and try other methods to find the love you want and deserve. To learn more about heightening your feminine charm and highly effective, proven techniques to find love, visit http://www.NeverTooLate.biz Subscribe to the f*r*e*e bi-weekly newsletter Kiss & Tell and check out the book MANifesting Mr. Right: Its Never Too Late to Find the Love You Want by Dating Coach and expert Ronnie Ann Ryan at http://www.ManifestingMrRight.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ronnie_Ann_Ryan http://EzineArticles.com/?Ladies,-Forget-about-Online-Dating-Sites-with-Personality-Tests&id=150397 order phentermine online without a prescription non prescription phentermine 37.5 mg where to buy phentermine online order phentermine without a prescription

Depression: Based on a True Story

Wednesday, April 16th, 2008

By Jamie Herold Ring, ring. The crisis operator answers the phone to a woman pleading to let her daughter know that she loves her. The woman spent her day writing letters to friends and loved ones, expressing her thoughts and emotions. From the loaded gun on the table to the rope hanging from the attic, it was a well-thought out plan (Lewis, Pamela, 2003). Have you ever felt life was not worth living? Have you wished you were dead? Have you had any thoughts of taking your own life? It began October of 1998, while my husband and I were on our way home from the grocery store. The cellular phone rings. My husband answers. He then tells the caller that we are on our way there. His tone of voice sounded frightened and worried. I repeatedly asked, What is going on? Why are you driving so fast? Something has happened to your mother!, he exclaimed. I had fifteen minutes to prepare myself for the worst, yet I did not know exactly what I was preparing for. As we arrived to the scene, numerous police vehicles, two ambulances, the local rescue squad, private investigators, negotiators, and the SWAT team had one half of a mile from my house blocked off. As we came to a stop, I jumped out of the car crying and screaming, while trying to find answers as to what has happened. A police officer then pulled me aside. The young man explained that my mother was attempting suicide due to her depression. As the number one public health problem, four to 8 percent of the U.S. population experience or have experienced a clinical depressed syndrome (Klerman, Gerald, pg. 27). Depression is a mental illness that requires immediate medical attention. Because depression is so widespread, it is often called the common cold (Koop, Everett, 1996). The difference between a cold and depression is that depression, if not treated, can lead to the death of an individual. Depression occurs when nerve cells, or neurons, fail to communicate with each other due to a chemical imbalance in the brain (Koop, Everett, 1996). A neuron is a specialized cell that conducts messages through the nervous system. Two neurons communicate with each other by electrical impulses or signals. The point of communication where electrical signals carry a message between two neurons is called a synapse. Separating the sending neurons and receiving neurons from the axon terminal are tiny, fluid-filled gaps called synaptic clefts. Chemicals called neurotransmitters dock at receptor sites, thus igniting the electrical signal of that neuron. After the signal is delivered, the neurotransmitters float back to the neuron that sent them. This process is called reputake. Researchers have found many causes or reasons for depression. Usually, depression is caused by a deficiency in the neurotransmitter serotonin or norepinephrine (Morgan, Marie, pg. 75). Serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep, aggression, and appetite. Norepinephrine affects wakefulness, alertness, and also appetite. In some cases hereditary, personality traits, stress, and lack of supportive relationships are linked to depression. Other causes for depression are helplessness, sense of loss, isolation, and unresolved anger (Koop, Everett, 1996). Through your eyes, you see the world as a series of positive, neutral, or negative events. These events are interrupted through a group of thoughts that constantly flow through your mind. This is called your internal dialogue. Created by your thoughts is your feelings or mood. Before an emotional response can be experienced what you are feeling or what is happening to you (Burns, David, pg. 30). Therefore, the negative thoughts that process through your mind are actually the cause of your emotions. Your negative thoughts, or cognitions, are the most overlooked symptoms of depression. Symptoms are feelings or behaviors that disturb normal functioning (Heitler, Susan, pg.47). A depressed person may show signs, such as a loss of pleasure or interest in usual activities, feelings of worthlessness, guilt, decrease in the ability to think or concentrate, and a loss of energy and appetite (Koop, Everett, 1996). The assessments of symptoms include specifying troubled behaviors and feelings, the history of the symptoms and diagnosing the problem (Heitler, Susan, pg. 49). Other symptoms include crying excessively, negative thoughts about the future and even thoughts of death or suicide (Koop, Everett, 1996). Suicide is the deliberate taking of ones own life, which accounts for 5 percent of clinically depressed patients (Burns, David, pg. 383). Suicide rates have increased in children and adolescents since the 1990’s (Burns, David, pg. 9). Why do depressed individuals often think of suicide? Persuasive and pessimistic visions dominate their thoughts. To them, life seems to be a nightmare. When a depressed person thinks of the past, she only remembers moments of suffering and pain (Burns, David, pg. 384). Researchers have proven that the unrealistic sense of hopelessness is one of the most important factors in the plans for a serious suicidal wish or thought (Burns, David, pg. 385). A famous myth remains today: An unsuccessful suicide attempt is simply a means of getting attention and is not to be taken seriously (Burns, David, pg. 387). The fact is that all attempts are to be taken very seriously. Because a depressed individuals pain and suffering may feel unbearable and never ending, she may conclude that suicide is the only escape. In reality, medical treatment and attention will help the individual overcome depression. Many researchers have described therapy as an opportunity for people to deal with their conflict of everyday living (Heitler, Susan, pg. 7). Consulting with a professional, such as a psychologist or a psychiatrist, can be a nice beginning for treatment. With a Ph.D. in psychology and other related fields, a psychologist serves the public through research, testing, and psychotherapy (Hauck, Paul, pg. 134). Psychotherapy is an important means of treatment for certain types of emotional or mental disorders. Usually working with the patient alone, a psychologist allows her to express feelings and emotions of lifes battles. At the end of each session, the psychologist gives simple, step by step advice to the patient. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in counseling clients with psychiatric, neurologic, and medical conditions (Reference International Publishers, LTD, pg. 18). During a period of one to six visits, the doctor will be discussed with the patient and followed upon regularly (Reference International Publishers, LTD, pg. 187). A psychiatrist also prescribes and administers medication, usually antidepressants, with the referral from a psychologist (Hauck, Paul, pg.135). Antidepressants are drugs that are prescribed to treat depression and some anxiety disorders. The most widely prescribed drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, enhance the potency of the brains neurotransmitters in the synapse. Some agents of tricyclic drugs are Imipramine, Desipramine, Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Protriptyline, and Doxepin (Burns, David, pgs. 430-432). Side effects, such as dry mouth, constipation and blurred vision, disappear after the first few days (Burns, David, pg. 432). MAO inhibitors cause elevations in the levels of amine neurotransmitters, thus, correcting the chemical imbalance in the brain. The most commonly prescribed trade names for MAO inhibitors are Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate. Similar to tricyclic drugs, the side effects of MAO inhibitors are dry mouth, lightheadedness, trouble urinating, a rash, and constipation or loose stools (Burns, David, pg. 440). MAO inhibitors, if not taken properly can produce serious effects. Blood pressure may rise of certain foods or drugs containing a substance called tyramine, which interferes with the brains ability to regulate blood pressure, while taking a MAO inhibitor (Burns, David, pg. 441). Lithium carbonate is another antidepressant drug used to treat severe depression. Although lithium is simply salt, it does have many side effects, such as hand tremors, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, that usually taper off within a week or soon after (Morgan, Marie, pg. 78). Long term effects of lithium include blackouts, headache, slurred speech, weight changes, fatigue, and hypotension (Morgan, Marie, pg. 70). Valium is an antidepressant that suppresses anxiety and covers up symptoms rather than getting at the causes (Morgan, Marie, pg. 78). Although addictive and may worsen depression, some doctors use minor tranquilizers or sedatives to treat anxiety and nervousness (Burns, David, pg. 444). Sleeping pills are used to help treat insomnia. These pills become highly addictive as they disrupt normal sleep patterns and greatly worsen the sleeping problem. For example, my mother was given the drug, Ambien, because she was having trouble falling and staying asleep. She awoke often only to take another pill because she was still not able to sleep well. Ambien gave her short-term amnesia and disrupted her sleep instead of helping her sleep. She ended up in the emergency room for an accidental overdose (Lewis, Pamela, 2003). I almost lost her again to a drug that was supposed to help her. There are at least a dozen different antidepressants that are effective for some patients, while for others, the results may be disappointing or harmful. Reoccurrences of depression can happen at any time a person stops taking medication as prescribed just because they think they are better. In some cases a depressed person may need an increase or even a change in medication after an evaluation with a doctor or therapist. In the near future, researchers will hopefully advance the understanding of antidepressant drugs and how they affect the human brain. It sometimes, seems that the more hopeless and severe the depression was, the more extraordinary and delicious the taste of happiness and self-esteem is. As you begin to feel better, the pessimistic thoughts will go away like the melting of the winter snow when spring arrives. You may even wonder how you ever could believe such thought in the first place. Because the change of negative to more neutral or positive thinking can be so dramatic, a person may be convinced that the depression has vanished forever. But that simply is not true because there is a mood disorder that remains. A depressed person who feels better must understand what caused the depression and be able to apply and reapply self-help techniques whenever needed. Acquiring self-confidence and self-esteem is a must to getting better. Focusing on happy memories and keeping positive thoughts will decrease the recurrence of depression. Lowering ones standards to prevent disappointment and learning from ones own mistakes will also help a person overcome depression. My mother has beat the battle of depression after six months in Zellar, the old local mental institution, and years of learning how to cope with lifes emotional stress. Trying to resume her original lifestyle was the most difficult obstacle to getting better. Her suicidal attempt was reported on the front page of the Peoria Journal Star. Not only did they have the wrong information about the depressing event, they also labeled her and tried to press charges against her for trying to take her own life. Returning to work, she was stereotyped as crazy or insane instead of strong and hopeful for fighting the horrifying condition. It has been five years since her breakdown and she now lives a wonderful and happy life. She states, I am proud to be here today! (Lewis, Pamela, 2003). If you know anyone who shows any signs of depression or has thoughts of death, help them. Be their friend and give them positive reinforcement. Show them they are loved and needed in your life and many others. Most important, get them help because not every depressed person knows they are depressed, therefore they may not be able to help themselves. References: Burns, David D., MD. Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy. Avon Books Printing. New York, New York: 1980. Hauck, Paul A. Overcoming Depression. The Westminster Press. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: 1987. Heitler, Susan M., Ph.D. From Conflict to Resolution.W.W. Norton and Company, Inc. New York, New York: 1990. Klerman, Gerald L. Interpersonal Psychotherapy of Depression. Jason Aronson, Inc. Northvale, New Jersey: 1984. Koop, Everett C., MD. Depression at Time of Diagnosis. Time Life Medical. Patient Education Media, Inc. New York, New York: 1996. Lewis, Pamela. Interview. Edelstein, Illinois: 2003.Morgan, Marie. Breaking Through: How to Overcome Housewives Depression. Winston Press, Inc. Minneapolis, Minnesota: 1983. Reference International Publishers, Ltd. Good Housekeeping: Family Health and Medical Guide. Hearst Books. New York, New York: 1979, 1980. Jamie Herold Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Herold http://EzineArticles.com/?Depression:–Based-on-a-True-Story&id=34278 prescription for phentermine buy phentermine in california buy phentermine online no prescription phentermine 37.5 mg no prescription needed

How to Suggestive Sell Your Gift Certificates

Sunday, April 13th, 2008

By Ron Wilkinson Gift Certificates can be a great revenue producer during the entire year, but your purchases will really increase around Birthdays and Holidays especially prior to Christmas. It is a great idea to feature this gift certificate sale right after Thanksgiving. December can be the busiest month of the year if you effectively handle gift certificates. Let me tell you about a good promotion. If you purchase a minimum increment of a $100.00 in gift certificates between Thanksgiving and the first of the year, you will receive a $20.00 Bonus Guest Certificate FREE. This twenty dollar bonus is a great way to boost your December sales. Some restrictions apply to the Bonus Guest Certificates. The Bonus Guest Certificates are only good from January 1st until March 31st and cannot be redeemed for cash. This is designed to drive your business on the first three months of the year which are traditionally three slow months. This promotion brings business in during this slow time and it encourages and drives the sales of gift certificates during December and a minimum of $100.00 increases the transaction size. Those Customers who used to spend $50.00 or $75.00 on gift certificates now spend $100.00 and then get $120.00 / $20.00 of which must be spent after the first of the year and before March 31st. You may think that this is a big discount, giving a $20.00 ADDED Bonus Guest Certificate. But, you need to understand that ultimately 50% of the Guest Certificates do not get redeemed. The 16.66% discount amounts to only about 8% because not all of these Guest Certificates get used. The sales results will be very impressive. You can promote the sale of gift certificates through your newsletter and through posters tastefully done in the Restaurant and on your website. If you have 10,000 customers and only 1% participated in the purchase of gift certificates at the minimum purchase of $100.00, this would be $12,000 in purchases. If you could enjoy a 10% return, it would be $120,000. Putting a dedicated table in the entryway of the Restaurant would make it an easy way for your Guests to purchase the gift certificates and take the job away from an already busy staff. The sole responsibility of this Employee would be to sell the gift certificates. This would be a great temptation for your Guests to purchase while they are visiting your Restaurant. You would put the gift certificates in a nice gift envelope for the Customers, according to the dominations they want (i.e. $20.00). The key to increasing and pushing the sales of Gift Certificates is through outstanding dining experiences. If the Guest feels good about their dining experience and they see a table display sign like the one below, sales of gift certificates will soar during December. One Restaurant location, after putting in the dedicated table, increased their Gift Certificate business by 37% for the first year and then an additional 6% the very next year. This has been a big boost to gift certificate sales. This has also dramatically increased the sales for the first quarter of the next year through the Guest Certificate. The redemption on the bonus Guest certificates was only about 50% which puts your discount of 16.66% to 8.33%. If the Gift Certificates were given in $20.00 amounts it means that you would bring in five parties from the $100.00 sale. Bonus Discount - The Bonus Guest Certificate only has a three month life. This is a very simple promotion and it works. By and large, the people who buy the gift certificates are loyal Customers and it gives you the opportunity to reward their patronage. The Bonus Guest Gift Certificate is a different size and color than the regular Gift Certificate. Regular Gift Certificates can be $20/$25/$50/$75 or $100.00 amounts. If the Guest did not have a preference, I would give them 5 - $20.00 Gift Certificates for $100.00 and 1 - $20.00 Guest Certificate . Any denominations can be combined to make the $100.00 special and then receive $120.00 worth of value. The redemption rate on regular gift certificates are about 80%, therefore 20% are not redeemed, while only 50% of the Guest Certificates are redeemed and they must be redeemed before 31st March the next year. Gift certificates are the perfect solution for any special occasion. From celebrating birthdays, graduations and weddings to inspiring higher business performance, gift certificates are always a delight to receive. If you are unsure what to get for a person but you know what restaurant they like then Gift Certificates is the way to go. Ron has dedicated over 50 years in the restaurant industry to helping Independent Restaurant Operators make more money, thrive and compete in one of the most competitive industries in the world, and find time to enjoy the results of their success Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Wilkinson http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Suggestive-Sell-Your-Gift-Certificates&id=242786 order phentermine online without prescription buy phentermine fedex order phentermine online phentermine us pharmacy

Why Payday Loans Can Damage Your Financial Health

Friday, April 11th, 2008

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Roger_Overanout]Roger Overanout If you are thinking about using a Payday Loan to provide for those unexpected expenses there are several things you need to consider. The reasons to avoid a Payday Loan vary, but probably the most obvious reason is the dangerous interest rates that this type of borrowing charges. The Payday Loan companies claim that the level of repayment is more important to their clients than the actual interest rate, and this is a fair point but these high interest rates could mean that you could end up in worse financial shape than before. It is very important to consider all your options and if this is the only form of borrowing you can get do research several companies to get the best interest rate or if at all possible to look for another way to get the money that you need. The next most important reason you need to avoid Payday Loans is the high fees that are charged when you miss a payment! If a payment is missed, you will then have to pay back even more money to the cash advance company. By missing one payment you can find that the amount you owe has increased by up to 50%, and this will put you into an even worse financial fix, that you may not be able to overcome. The payment terms that you have to accept may also be hard to live with. It will probably make more sense for you to consider using your credit card if you get into a financial mess. You will pay less in the long run if you borrow from your credit card than you will if you get a Payday Loan. By making a wise choice now you may be able to keep yourself out of a financial hole that may be impossible to get out of once you fall in. If you need a large amount of money, then you must try to get a loan from a regular loan company first. The repayment terms will be a lot more affordable and this will allow you to pay them off much sooner. This means that you will be able to keep more of your money in your own pocket, which is what everyone wants to do. If you can possibly avoid using a Payday Loan company then do so, if you must use this source of credit proceed with caution and try to borrow only the very minimum you can manage. For further vital information news and views about Payday Loans pay a visit to http://www.paydayloancenter.info You may reproduce this article provided you maintain an active link back to http://www.paydayloancenter.info Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Overanout http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Payday-Loans-Can-Damage-Your-Financial-Health&id=135224 discount pharmacy phentermine diet pills and phentermine pharmacy phentermine cod phentermine com online

Cosmetic Surgery Vacations

Thursday, April 10th, 2008

By Sara Goldstein Cosmetic surgery is becoming more and more popular. People all across the country are realizing that with a fairly quick procedure, they can have the appearance or body shape that they have always wanted. Unfortunately, many companies are using this growing cosmetic surgery trend to take advantage of people. One of the ways they are doing this is by offering all-inclusive cosmetic surgery vacations to exotic locations like Brazil, Costa Rica, and Thailand. These vacations seem very popular and they look like a good idea because they pop-up all over the Internet, and advertise having wonderful amenities, like credentialed and highly-trained medical staff and private hospital services. One of the reasons these cosmetic surgery vacations are rising in popularity is due to their price. Since cosmetic surgery is not often covered by your insurance, the cost of the procedure can be one of largest selling points. These all inclusive cosmetic surgery vacations can afford to provide lower prices by using overseas hospitals. Unfortunately, many times you get what you pay for and the vacation that seems too good to be true, actually is. By choosing to have a cosmetic surgery procedure performed during one of these “vacations,” you put your overall health and even your life at risk. It is harder to evaluate the quality of overseas doctors because there is no international standard that all doctors are held to. Dangerous complications may lurk in offshore procedures because foreign facilities do not offer the same safeguards on equipment, emergency procedures, and personnel that the hospitals in the Unites State provide. Also, the recovery process from a cosmetic surgery procedure is one of the most important parts of the procedure. Many times, during your recovery process, you are advised to stay indoors and relax by avoiding normal activities. Can you realistically imagine being able to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand while attempting to heal after a cosmetic surgery? Not only would you risk infection by allowing foreign substances into enter the surgery area, but also participating in water skiing, volleyball, or any other beach activities could severely damage whatever procedure you had. Lastly, by having a cosmetic surgery procedure performed while on a vacation, you limit the amount of postoperative contact you have with the doctor or hospital. This means that if there are any complications during the flight home, or once you return, you are left without the plastic surgeon to ask questions. It could be difficult to find another plastic surgeon to help you with your situation if they did not perform the original procedure. Many times, revision surgery is more difficult than the initial surgical procedure, and it could even more difficult for the plastic surgeon if they did not perform the cosmetic surgery to begin with. Even though it may seem like you are saving money by taking a cosmetic surgery vacation, if you consider the risks and costs of a cosmetic surgery vacation, like needing a revision surgery, it might not be a vacation at all, and it might cost you even more money. A better idea might be to stay at home for your cosmetic surgery. If money is the biggest factor, contact a plastic surgeon near you and ask them about financing options. Most plastic surgeons will work with you so that you can afford you procedure and you will be able to recover from your procedure being comfortable in your own home and knowing that the plastic surgeon is near by. Click here for more information regarding cosmetic surgery procedures in the Denver, Colorado area. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sara_Goldstein http://EzineArticles.com/?Cosmetic-Surgery-Vacations&id=247908 cheap phentermine 30mg cheap phentermine without prescription phentermine online cod phentermine pharmacy biz

More 10 Things to Never Say on a First Date

Monday, April 7th, 2008

By Jill L. Ferguson Dating can be hard. Or rather, going on one date can be easy but launching from one date into two or three may be more difficult. Because of this, here are another ten things never to say or talk about on a first date, if youd like a second. 1) Why you hate your mother. Save it for your analyst, not for the woman or man you are trying to woo. 2) Any physical aberrations. First dates are not the time to say, Hey, I have six toes on my left foot or I have a third nipple. Though that may pique a persons interest for a look-see, it will automatically label you as extra-toe chick or weird nipple guy before the person even gets to know the real you. 3) The number of people you slept with or havent slept with. This will either make you look like a) a whore, b) a prude, and/or c) desperate. 4) The amount of money you make or dont make. This will make you look like either a show-off or a complainer. Keep your finances to yourself for a while. Its nobodys business but yours, your accountantsif you have one, and the IRS. 5) Favorite porn magazines or movies. If One Night in Paris was the best movie you ever saw, no one needs to know. The reason should be self-evident. 6) Your biggest celebrity crush. No female will ever feel as attractive (or curvy) as Pamela Anderson. Dont inadvertently put down your date by saying youve always had the hots for some hyper-plastic celebrity. A mere mortal will feel, If thats the type of people he goes for, I dont have a chance. 7) Calculus, physics, or cold fusionunless of course you both are mathematicians, scientists or computer engineers. Talking about smart things wont necessarily make the look smart. It could make your date think you are a) a nerd, b) a geek, or c) pretentious. 8) Dont name drop, including place names. Though your date may be interested in your travels, he doesnt need to know you went to The Hamptons and dined at the same restaurant as Billy Joel or that you went to St. Moritz and skied with the Royal Family. Even if you are a close friend of Will and Harry, first dates dont need to knowotherwise see c) under 7. 9) That time when you got really drunk. Does a date really need to hear about your stupidity, vomiting and passing out? Do you really need to relive it? Talking about drunken episodes makes you sound like a frat boy/sorority girl with a Peter Pan syndrome. 10) Any previous first dates youve had. No one wants to be the next person on your list whose anecdotes will shared with another date. Respect peoples privacy and theyll respect yours. Following these simple rulesand a little chemistryshould get you to date number two. Jill L. Ferguson is the author of Sometimes Art Can’t Save You by In Your Face Ink LLC (http://www.inyourfaceink.com). Over 600 of her articles, essays and poems have been published in newspapers, magazines and journals. When she isn’t writing, she teaches literature, creative writing and communication classes at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and Notre Dame de Namur University. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jill_L._Ferguson http://EzineArticles.com/?More-10-Things-to-Never-Say-on-a-First-Date&id=123997 buy phentermine for cheap cheap phentermine without prescription phentermine online sales buy prescription phentermine