The collapse of Microsoft (NSDQ: MSFT)'s bid to acquire Yahoo (NSDQ: YHOO) has prompted Google (NSDQ: GOOG) watchers to ponder whether Google's dominance of search advertising poses any dangers for the Internet.
"Should it now be a cause for alarm that one company is in a position to control so much of the lifeblood of the Internet?" asked Financial Times writer Richard Waters in a May 12 article.
To hammer home the fear that drove Microsoft to acquire Yahoo in the first place, Silicon Alley Insider writer Henry Blodget asserted, " By this time next year, Google's search business will be larger and more profitable than the most profitable and legendary monopoly in history -- Microsoft Windows."
On Wednesday, the validity of such concerns was underscored by search market metrics released by Hitwise. "Google accounted for 67.90% of all U.S. searches in the four weeks ending April 26, 2008. Yahoo Search, MSN Search, and Ask.com each received 20.28%, 6.26% and 4.17%, respectively," Hitwise said.
For Google, that represents another market share increase. For Yahoo, Microsoft, and Ask, those numbers represent another decline. The biggest search share decline in the past 12 months belongs to Microsoft, or so it appears from a chart posted by Danny Sullivan over at Search Engine Land.
In answer to Waters' question, yes, it is cause for alarm, but also for celebration.
Google is alarming in the same way that Wal-Mart is alarming: It forces competitors to change.
Microsoft may not want to give up on the idea of selling word processing software to people for hundreds of dollars every few years, but Google, by making a free online alternative available, demonstrates the absurdity of the shrink-wrapped software business model. Sooner or later, Microsoft will have to come to terms with the fact that its golden goose has a terminal condition.
To date, Google has been restrained with its power. It has not, for example, floated ideas like abandoning network neutrality, as certain telecom companies have. In that respect, Google is less alarming than, say, AT&T.
But Google poses a threat by virtue of its extreme mobility, which is to say that it can enter information markets very quickly. Consider reports that Google has added a real estate search option to Google Maps. Suddenly, Google has become a potential competitor to Zillow.com.
If you run an Internet site or software company, that scenario has to be at least a bit alarming.
At the same time, today's open ecosystem has room for Google competitors. Microsoft will be a better one, five years from now, when Ray Ozzie's vision for the company becomes more fully realized. Yahoo may be one, if corporate raiders don't dismember it first. And maybe MySpace or Facebook will make their platform plays work. (Don't count Apple out, either.)
Until Google starts acting like a monopoly and abuses its market power, hold off on the alarm bells. Instead, celebrate the expanding information ecosystem that is emerging and try to bring great products to market.
YouTube beat Google Video, so it can be done (even if Google did end up buying YouTube to undo its defeat.)
« Yes, It’s Time To Destroy Your E-Mail Servers. What App Is Next? | Main | VMware Site Recovery Manager Is A Game Changer »
Thursday, May 15, 2008
INDIANS ABROAD
Britain's first Asian woman Lord Mayor
15 May 2008, 1320 hrs IST
Ludhiana-born Manjula Sood, a High Bailiff of Leicester till now, will become the first Asian woman Lord Mayor of Britain.
Indian workers to go on strike in US
14 May 2008, 2012 hrs IST
A group of Indian guest workers will launch a hunger strike in front of the White House to demand protection from "exploitation" by US companies.
Indian community in US condemns Jaipur blasts
14 May 2008, 1001 hrs IST
Calling for a thorough probe into the blasts, the Indian community in US demanded harshest punishment for the culprits.
Indian moneylender killed in Philippines
14 May 2008, 0447 hrs IST , IP Singh
Paramjit Singh, a youth from Jalandhar, had gone to Philippines two years back and taken up the money-lending business.
Sikh student's turban set afire in New York
13 May 2008, 1739 hrs IST
The incident of a high school student setting a Sikh schoolmate's 'patka' afire in New Jersey, has invited the ire of the community.
Stabbed Indian student released from hospital
13 May 2008, 1412 hrs IST
The Indian student working as a taxi driver, who was brutally stabbed and left bleeding on the roadside here, has made a "miraculous" recovery and released from the hospital.
British Film Institute not to screen The Love Guru
13 May 2008, 1352 hrs IST
The British Film Institute has assured Hindu groups in the US that it would not release The Love Guru, which allegedly hurt religious sentiments.
Bodies of 6 car crash victims still in US
13 May 2008, 0939 hrs IST
The bodies of 6 Indian car crash victims will be flown back after completion of certain formalities by Wednesday.
'7ft-tall man killed Indian girl in UK'
13 May 2008, 0117 hrs IST
Nalluri Nagaraju Kumar has claimed that Jyothirmayi was murdered by a masked man, who was about seven-feet tall.
NRIs in UAE seek compensation for rupee rise
12 May 2008, 1535 hrs IST
NRIs in UAE have asked for compensation from India as the rupee appreciation affected their remittances back home.
Next >>
Other News
Pak troops fire on border post in Kashmir
Jaipur blasts: RDX used, HuJI suspected
US offers help in probing Jaipur serial blasts
UN warns of 'second catastrophe' in Myanmar
Videos Pictures
Foreign players keen to complete IPL stint
Martyr's widow breaks down at award ceremony
Australian man hacks family to death
More Videos
Specials
Terror strikes Jaipur
Serial blasts rocked Jaipur on Tuesday killing at least 80 people.
Earthquake in China | Border violence continues
My Times , My Voice
Has Lucknow been marketed properly as a popular tourist destination?
What is the primary reason for India being susceptible to recurring terror attacks?
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Lifestyle: Stay updated on the latest trends
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US jobless claims rise 6,000 in latest week (1812hrs)
India extends ban on LTTE by two years (1735hrs)
Two killed after being pushed out of bus in Orissa (1705hrs)
Tribal militants kill 11 in Assam (1657hrs)
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15 May 2008, 1320 hrs IST
Ludhiana-born Manjula Sood, a High Bailiff of Leicester till now, will become the first Asian woman Lord Mayor of Britain.
Indian workers to go on strike in US
14 May 2008, 2012 hrs IST
A group of Indian guest workers will launch a hunger strike in front of the White House to demand protection from "exploitation" by US companies.
Indian community in US condemns Jaipur blasts
14 May 2008, 1001 hrs IST
Calling for a thorough probe into the blasts, the Indian community in US demanded harshest punishment for the culprits.
Indian moneylender killed in Philippines
14 May 2008, 0447 hrs IST , IP Singh
Paramjit Singh, a youth from Jalandhar, had gone to Philippines two years back and taken up the money-lending business.
Sikh student's turban set afire in New York
13 May 2008, 1739 hrs IST
The incident of a high school student setting a Sikh schoolmate's 'patka' afire in New Jersey, has invited the ire of the community.
Stabbed Indian student released from hospital
13 May 2008, 1412 hrs IST
The Indian student working as a taxi driver, who was brutally stabbed and left bleeding on the roadside here, has made a "miraculous" recovery and released from the hospital.
British Film Institute not to screen The Love Guru
13 May 2008, 1352 hrs IST
The British Film Institute has assured Hindu groups in the US that it would not release The Love Guru, which allegedly hurt religious sentiments.
Bodies of 6 car crash victims still in US
13 May 2008, 0939 hrs IST
The bodies of 6 Indian car crash victims will be flown back after completion of certain formalities by Wednesday.
'7ft-tall man killed Indian girl in UK'
13 May 2008, 0117 hrs IST
Nalluri Nagaraju Kumar has claimed that Jyothirmayi was murdered by a masked man, who was about seven-feet tall.
NRIs in UAE seek compensation for rupee rise
12 May 2008, 1535 hrs IST
NRIs in UAE have asked for compensation from India as the rupee appreciation affected their remittances back home.
Next >>
Other News
Pak troops fire on border post in Kashmir
Jaipur blasts: RDX used, HuJI suspected
US offers help in probing Jaipur serial blasts
UN warns of 'second catastrophe' in Myanmar
Videos Pictures
Foreign players keen to complete IPL stint
Martyr's widow breaks down at award ceremony
Australian man hacks family to death
More Videos
Specials
Terror strikes Jaipur
Serial blasts rocked Jaipur on Tuesday killing at least 80 people.
Earthquake in China | Border violence continues
My Times , My Voice
Has Lucknow been marketed properly as a popular tourist destination?
What is the primary reason for India being susceptible to recurring terror attacks?
More >>
No place like home
Pulse: Debate on hot Indian issues
Lifestyle: Stay updated on the latest trends
People: Famous Indian personalities
Latest
News Most
Read Most
Emailed Most
Commented
US jobless claims rise 6,000 in latest week (1812hrs)
India extends ban on LTTE by two years (1735hrs)
Two killed after being pushed out of bus in Orissa (1705hrs)
Tribal militants kill 11 in Assam (1657hrs)
More »
Horoscope
Aries Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo Virgo Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn Aquarius Pisces
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Weak rupee may not bail out exporters
15 May 2008, 0052 hrs IST , M Allirajan
The rupee breaching the Rs 42-mark to the dollar may have brought some relief to exporters, who were hit hard by a strong rupee and high input costs.
Cement, steel makers agree to cut prices
15 May 2008, 0107 hrs IST
Steel secretary RS Pandey has said that the secondary steel producers have assured that they will hold the new reduced price line for the next three months.
DoT dials PM, finmin on spectrum
15 May 2008, 0109 hrs IST , Shalini Singh
TRAI is now insisting that 3G auctions be restricted to existing UAS (universal access service) licensees (2G) alone, which, by keeping out aggressive global bidders threatens to have a restrictive effect on prices.
All Business headlines >>
Intl Business India Business
Worst of financial crisis over: IMF chief
15 May 2008, 1655 hrs IST
The worst of the financial sector crisis is over although the impact on the broader economy will likely drags on in coming months, IMF managing director Dominique Strauss-Kahn said.
More Stories
'No global recovery before '09'
Vijay Bhatnagar appointed ArcelorMittal India CEO
MySpace wins $230M spam judgment, believed to be largest ever
Mittal is chairman of ArcelorMittal
'US slowdown to hit Asia in mid-2008'
Benchmarks end over 2% higher
15 May 2008, 1642 hrs IST
Buying interest towards end of trade saw benchmarks end sharply higher on Thursday. Reliance Communications and Hindalco Industries both up over 5 per cent were major benchmark gainers.
More Stories
Core infrastructure growth at 9.6 pc
FM for further cut in cement prices
SEBI clears Reliance Infratel IPO
Sensex opens 160 points up
DoT dials PM, finmin on spectrum
More >>
More >>
Market
Mkt. statistics
Powered by The Economic Times
Videos Pictures
Foreign players keen to complete IPL stint
Martyr's widow breaks down at award ceremony
Australian man hacks family to death
More Videos
Specials
Terror strikes Jaipur
Serial blasts rocked Jaipur on Tuesday killing at least 80 people.
Earthquake in China | Border violence continues
My Times , My Voice
Has Lucknow been marketed properly as a popular tourist destination?
What is the primary reason for India being susceptible to recurring terror attacks?
More >>
Latest
News Most
Read Most
Emailed Most
Commented
US jobless claims rise 6,000 in latest week (1812hrs)
India extends ban on LTTE by two years (1735hrs)
Two killed after being pushed out of bus in Orissa (1705hrs)
Tribal militants kill 11 in Assam (1657hrs)
More »
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Copyright © 2008 Times Internet Limited. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service
This site is best viewed with Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher; Firefox 2.0 or higher at a minimum screen resolution of 1024x768
15 May 2008, 0052 hrs IST , M Allirajan
The rupee breaching the Rs 42-mark to the dollar may have brought some relief to exporters, who were hit hard by a strong rupee and high input costs.
Cement, steel makers agree to cut prices
15 May 2008, 0107 hrs IST
Steel secretary RS Pandey has said that the secondary steel producers have assured that they will hold the new reduced price line for the next three months.
DoT dials PM, finmin on spectrum
15 May 2008, 0109 hrs IST , Shalini Singh
TRAI is now insisting that 3G auctions be restricted to existing UAS (universal access service) licensees (2G) alone, which, by keeping out aggressive global bidders threatens to have a restrictive effect on prices.
All Business headlines >>
Intl Business India Business
Worst of financial crisis over: IMF chief
15 May 2008, 1655 hrs IST
The worst of the financial sector crisis is over although the impact on the broader economy will likely drags on in coming months, IMF managing director Dominique Strauss-Kahn said.
More Stories
'No global recovery before '09'
Vijay Bhatnagar appointed ArcelorMittal India CEO
MySpace wins $230M spam judgment, believed to be largest ever
Mittal is chairman of ArcelorMittal
'US slowdown to hit Asia in mid-2008'
Benchmarks end over 2% higher
15 May 2008, 1642 hrs IST
Buying interest towards end of trade saw benchmarks end sharply higher on Thursday. Reliance Communications and Hindalco Industries both up over 5 per cent were major benchmark gainers.
More Stories
Core infrastructure growth at 9.6 pc
FM for further cut in cement prices
SEBI clears Reliance Infratel IPO
Sensex opens 160 points up
DoT dials PM, finmin on spectrum
More >>
More >>
Market
Mkt. statistics
Powered by The Economic Times
Videos Pictures
Foreign players keen to complete IPL stint
Martyr's widow breaks down at award ceremony
Australian man hacks family to death
More Videos
Specials
Terror strikes Jaipur
Serial blasts rocked Jaipur on Tuesday killing at least 80 people.
Earthquake in China | Border violence continues
My Times , My Voice
Has Lucknow been marketed properly as a popular tourist destination?
What is the primary reason for India being susceptible to recurring terror attacks?
More >>
Latest
News Most
Read Most
Emailed Most
Commented
US jobless claims rise 6,000 in latest week (1812hrs)
India extends ban on LTTE by two years (1735hrs)
Two killed after being pushed out of bus in Orissa (1705hrs)
Tribal militants kill 11 in Assam (1657hrs)
More »
Horoscope
Aries Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo Virgo Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn Aquarius Pisces
ePaper: Print Edition
Get the replica of your favourite edition of Times of India Feel at home..
View ePaper
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Ghost Rider Rs. 290
Chrono watch Rs 200
More >>
Travel: Hotels
Goa Rs 836
Agra Rs 575
Jaipur Rs 993
More >>
Mobile 58888
News on the move
Rib-tickling jokes
More >>
About Us | Advertise with Us | Careers @ TIL | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Feedback | Sitemap
Copyright © 2008 Times Internet Limited. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service
This site is best viewed with Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher; Firefox 2.0 or higher at a minimum screen resolution of 1024x768
Tiny Bodies in a Morgue, and Grief in China
JUYUAN, China — The bodies are everywhere. Some are zipped inside white vinyl bags and strewn on the floor. Others have been covered in a favorite blanket or dressed in new clothes. There are so many bodies that undertakers want to cremate them in groups. They are all children.
Skip to next paragraph
Enlarge This Image
Shiho Fukada for The New York Times
Parents at a makeshift morgue on Wednesday in Juyuan, China, held the body of their child, killed in Monday’s earthquake. More Photos »
Multimedia
Photographs
Grief in Juyuan
Related
Chinese Soldiers Rush to Bolster Weakened Dams (May 15, 2008) “Our grief is incomparable,” said Li Ping, 39, eyes rimmed red, as he and his wife slowly, carefully pulled a pair of pink pajamas over the bruised, naked body of their 8-year-old daughter, Ke. “We got married late, and had a child late. She is our only child.”
The earthquake that struck Sichuan Province on Monday has so far claimed more than 19,000 lives across China, and thousands more people remain missing or trapped beneath rubble. But the awful scene at this local morgue is a sad reminder that too many of the dead are children in a country where most families are allowed to have only one.
These children symbolized the earthquake’s seemingly indiscriminate cruelty. But the cruelty, in the eyes of their parents, was also man-made.
Several schools in nearby Dujiangyan collapsed while classes were under way. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Wen Jiabao visited two of them, including Xinjian Primary School, where parents say officials told him the death toll was 20 pupils.
“I am Grandpa Wen Jiabao,” the prime minister said as he watched two children being pulled from the rubble, according to Xinhua, the official state news agency. “Hold on, kids! You’ll definitely be rescued.”
But enraged parents interviewed at the morgue on Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning say local officials lied to the prime minister to hide the true toll at Xinjian, which they estimate at more than 400 dead children. Several parents blamed local officials for a slow initial rescue response and questioned the structural safety of the school building. They were also furious that officials forbade them to search for their children for two days and then allowed access to the bodies only after the parents formed an ad hoc committee to complain.
“Before Wen Jiabao came, the whole school was filled with children’s bodies,” said one mother who sat outdoors at the morgue with her husband in the early morning darkness beside the covered body of their 8-year-old daughter. “Her father and I had stood outside the school since the earthquake. We pleaded with the government: ‘If she is dead, I want to see the body. If she is alive, I want to see her.’ ”
Her husband, a thin man, leaned forward into the yellow light of two candles. “We’re telling you the truth,” he said. “Get the truth out.”
The morgue is an hour outside Dujiangyan on an isolated rural road, yet the parking lot was filled at 1:50 a.m. on Thursday. Parents and other family members clustered around the bodies of their children. Some burned fake money to bring their lost child good fortune in the afterlife. In one room, 25 small bodies were scattered on the floor. Some children had already been taken away; an empty white body bag lay near a sneaker and a filthy pair of boy’s trousers. Some families had placed flowers or incense inside empty water bottles as makeshift memorials.
“There are more in there,” said a man, pointing to a rear door. He walked outside to a walkway and paused. Scores of bodies, covered with sheets, were lined in two long rows on the concrete floor. Others were placed in an adjacent room. Parents sobbed or sat silently beside bodies.
“They are all students,” said the man in the blue shirt. “Look,” he said pointing to a red and white jacket folded beside one body. “That is the school uniform.” He pointed to a Mickey Mouse backpack. “There is a book bag.”
The two rows of bodies came to an open door that led to the large steel furnaces used for cremation. In China, the dead are almost always cremated fairly soon after death. Usually, there is enough time for funeral ceremonies and rituals, but parents said that officials were worried about cremating so many bodies before they started to decompose. So some parents have been asked if their children can be cremated with dead friends to save time.
1 2 Next Page »
Zhang Jing contributed research.
Skip to next paragraph
Enlarge This Image
Shiho Fukada for The New York Times
Parents at a makeshift morgue on Wednesday in Juyuan, China, held the body of their child, killed in Monday’s earthquake. More Photos »
Multimedia
Photographs
Grief in Juyuan
Related
Chinese Soldiers Rush to Bolster Weakened Dams (May 15, 2008) “Our grief is incomparable,” said Li Ping, 39, eyes rimmed red, as he and his wife slowly, carefully pulled a pair of pink pajamas over the bruised, naked body of their 8-year-old daughter, Ke. “We got married late, and had a child late. She is our only child.”
The earthquake that struck Sichuan Province on Monday has so far claimed more than 19,000 lives across China, and thousands more people remain missing or trapped beneath rubble. But the awful scene at this local morgue is a sad reminder that too many of the dead are children in a country where most families are allowed to have only one.
These children symbolized the earthquake’s seemingly indiscriminate cruelty. But the cruelty, in the eyes of their parents, was also man-made.
Several schools in nearby Dujiangyan collapsed while classes were under way. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Wen Jiabao visited two of them, including Xinjian Primary School, where parents say officials told him the death toll was 20 pupils.
“I am Grandpa Wen Jiabao,” the prime minister said as he watched two children being pulled from the rubble, according to Xinhua, the official state news agency. “Hold on, kids! You’ll definitely be rescued.”
But enraged parents interviewed at the morgue on Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning say local officials lied to the prime minister to hide the true toll at Xinjian, which they estimate at more than 400 dead children. Several parents blamed local officials for a slow initial rescue response and questioned the structural safety of the school building. They were also furious that officials forbade them to search for their children for two days and then allowed access to the bodies only after the parents formed an ad hoc committee to complain.
“Before Wen Jiabao came, the whole school was filled with children’s bodies,” said one mother who sat outdoors at the morgue with her husband in the early morning darkness beside the covered body of their 8-year-old daughter. “Her father and I had stood outside the school since the earthquake. We pleaded with the government: ‘If she is dead, I want to see the body. If she is alive, I want to see her.’ ”
Her husband, a thin man, leaned forward into the yellow light of two candles. “We’re telling you the truth,” he said. “Get the truth out.”
The morgue is an hour outside Dujiangyan on an isolated rural road, yet the parking lot was filled at 1:50 a.m. on Thursday. Parents and other family members clustered around the bodies of their children. Some burned fake money to bring their lost child good fortune in the afterlife. In one room, 25 small bodies were scattered on the floor. Some children had already been taken away; an empty white body bag lay near a sneaker and a filthy pair of boy’s trousers. Some families had placed flowers or incense inside empty water bottles as makeshift memorials.
“There are more in there,” said a man, pointing to a rear door. He walked outside to a walkway and paused. Scores of bodies, covered with sheets, were lined in two long rows on the concrete floor. Others were placed in an adjacent room. Parents sobbed or sat silently beside bodies.
“They are all students,” said the man in the blue shirt. “Look,” he said pointing to a red and white jacket folded beside one body. “That is the school uniform.” He pointed to a Mickey Mouse backpack. “There is a book bag.”
The two rows of bodies came to an open door that led to the large steel furnaces used for cremation. In China, the dead are almost always cremated fairly soon after death. Usually, there is enough time for funeral ceremonies and rituals, but parents said that officials were worried about cremating so many bodies before they started to decompose. So some parents have been asked if their children can be cremated with dead friends to save time.
1 2 Next Page »
Zhang Jing contributed research.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
INDIAN ECONOMY
NALCO eyes coal mines in Indonesia
NALCO has shortlisted two to three coal mines in Sumatra Island to secure supplies for its power plant in Indonesia.ArcelorMittal posts net income of $2.37 bn
The Co has recorded an increase of 5.37 per cent as compared to the last year.
‘HP-EDS deal to be biggest in global tech'
Proposed acquisition of EDS by HP is the largest M&A deal in the global technology space in 2008.
DuPont targets $1 bn revenues from India
Global science services firm DuPont is targeting revenues of one billion dollar its Indian arm.
Indian Oil to raise Rs 5.9 bn via bonds
State-run Indian Oil Corporation Ltd will sell oil bonds to raise 5.9 billion rupees.
Lloyd Electric to acquire Czech firm
Air conditioner coil maker Lloyd Electric announced the acquisition of Luvata Czech in Prague.
Vijay Bhatnagar appointed ArcelorMittal India CEO
World's largest steelmaker ArcelorMittal has appointed Vijay Bhatnagar as the new Chief Executive Officer for its India operations.
NALCO not to be privatised: Rahul Gandhi
The profit making Orissa- based public sector undertaking NALCO will not be privatised, Rahul said.
GAIL FY 2007-08 net at Rs. 2,601 cr
GAIL India posted a net profit before tax at Rs 1,098 crore in the fourth quarter of 2007-08.
Coca-Cola seeks more acquisitions
Coca-Cola is seeking more acquisition opportunities in the market to expand its revenue sources.
1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - Next
Edelweiss Jobs
200000+ Jobs, Top Companies HiringApply Now to Get Your Dream Job! Jobs in Paramount
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Ads by GoogleWorld News
FTA with India 'too pre-mature': US
Russia wants further IMF reform: Pankin
More
BANKING & FINANCE
PNB to set up branches in four overseas locations
PNB plans no rate cuts; to meet FY08 profit target
More
POLITICS
Terror hits Jaipur: Eight blasts, over 75 killed
Mayawati offers quota to poor ‘forward castes’
More
Sports
'Dissolved' IHF fights back, moves HC
Rohit has grabbed my attention: Gibbs
More
Markets
Mittal gets bullish on M&As, issues shares worth $15-bn
Sensex ends 225.49 pts up in volatile trade
More
Companies
NALCO eyes coal mines in Indonesia
ArcelorMittal posts net income of $2.37 bn
More
Economy
Asian economies holding up: Merrill Lynch
‘India not sacrificing growth to cool prices’
TAKEN FROM FINANCIAL EXPRESS
NALCO has shortlisted two to three coal mines in Sumatra Island to secure supplies for its power plant in Indonesia.ArcelorMittal posts net income of $2.37 bn
The Co has recorded an increase of 5.37 per cent as compared to the last year.
‘HP-EDS deal to be biggest in global tech'
Proposed acquisition of EDS by HP is the largest M&A deal in the global technology space in 2008.
DuPont targets $1 bn revenues from India
Global science services firm DuPont is targeting revenues of one billion dollar its Indian arm.
Indian Oil to raise Rs 5.9 bn via bonds
State-run Indian Oil Corporation Ltd will sell oil bonds to raise 5.9 billion rupees.
Lloyd Electric to acquire Czech firm
Air conditioner coil maker Lloyd Electric announced the acquisition of Luvata Czech in Prague.
Vijay Bhatnagar appointed ArcelorMittal India CEO
World's largest steelmaker ArcelorMittal has appointed Vijay Bhatnagar as the new Chief Executive Officer for its India operations.
NALCO not to be privatised: Rahul Gandhi
The profit making Orissa- based public sector undertaking NALCO will not be privatised, Rahul said.
GAIL FY 2007-08 net at Rs. 2,601 cr
GAIL India posted a net profit before tax at Rs 1,098 crore in the fourth quarter of 2007-08.
Coca-Cola seeks more acquisitions
Coca-Cola is seeking more acquisition opportunities in the market to expand its revenue sources.
1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - Next
Edelweiss Jobs
200000+ Jobs, Top Companies HiringApply Now to Get Your Dream Job! Jobs in Paramount
Top Companies Hiring Immediately.Submit Your Resume Today! Jobs in Oil
100's of Jobs in OilSubmit Resume for Free! Apply Now
Ads by GoogleWorld News
FTA with India 'too pre-mature': US
Russia wants further IMF reform: Pankin
More
BANKING & FINANCE
PNB to set up branches in four overseas locations
PNB plans no rate cuts; to meet FY08 profit target
More
POLITICS
Terror hits Jaipur: Eight blasts, over 75 killed
Mayawati offers quota to poor ‘forward castes’
More
Sports
'Dissolved' IHF fights back, moves HC
Rohit has grabbed my attention: Gibbs
More
Markets
Mittal gets bullish on M&As, issues shares worth $15-bn
Sensex ends 225.49 pts up in volatile trade
More
Companies
NALCO eyes coal mines in Indonesia
ArcelorMittal posts net income of $2.37 bn
More
Economy
Asian economies holding up: Merrill Lynch
‘India not sacrificing growth to cool prices’
TAKEN FROM FINANCIAL EXPRESS
Monday, May 12, 2008
MANTRA MEDITATION
MANTRA MEDITATION
WHY? - Modern science has reaffirmed what yogis have known for thousands of years - that SOUND is able to effect the chemistry of the body and mind, and alter thought patterns. It sounds like a weird New-Agey concept when you first hear about Mantra Meditation. Don't knock it until you've tried it! Mantra Meditation is a VERY Powerful technique!
You will discover that the repetition of Mantra allows your mind to focus and concentrate more completely on sound, and clear away other thoughts, emotions and distractions which divert our energies. Our senses become more acute and our mind become sharper and more perceptive as the mind clears away the jumble of unnecessary inner dialogue. We learn to preserve the our mental, and emotional energies. This enables us to develop a direction and focus in our actions. We become drawn to an uncomplicated and non-competitive life, and we transform our previous attitudes about work into a new-found appreciation in simple aspects of life. In our daily external actions, we are physically active and capable. Internally, we maintain a condition of perpetual meditation. Our simplest labors become an offering, a meditation in and of themselves.
What is it? Mantra Meditation is the technique of using SOUND to open the heart and mind. This is the Meditation Technique of Devotion, a deeply spiritual and sacred practice for many meditators, but you do not need to be "a religious" person to experience the gifts Mantra Meditation has to offer. Mantras (sounds) can be whatever you choose - they do not need to be Sanskrit Mantras (Sanskrit is an Ancient Language of India, used frequently in Yoga). A Mantra is a sound repeated over and over until it integrates into your consciousness - frees the mind from its constant DOING, and elevates you to an altered state of awareness. In this state, you can connect with your soul at its most profound level, achieving a state of universal consciousness.
You can use whatever sounds you like. During an inhalation you may say "I am" and during your exhalation "at peace." You may say simply "I am"
Mantra is often taught using Sanskrit words or phrases. Some common Mantras are listed below:
OM - the sound of the Universe (vibration of all living things)
Sat Nam - Truth
So Ham - Life/Death, light/shadow, inhalation/exhalation - the yin and yang - the integration of opposites (this is a beautiful and powerful mantra, honoring both the light and the shadow)
Om Namah Shivaya - the phoenix rising, creation born of change, TRANSFORMATION
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya - I surrender to/join with the divine will
Aham Brahmasmi - I am the creative force
Tat Tuan Asmi - I am that I am
Shanti, Shanti, Shanti - Peace, peace, peace
Some common Mantras in English:
I am
I surrender to Your will (God, Goddess, Universe, What IS)
Love
Peace to all
I open to What IS
ALL IS WELL
Lilias Folan (Grand Dame of Yoga in the United States) taught me one of my favorite Mantras, a Tibetan Prayer, translated into English as Follows:
May I be filled with LovingKindness
May I be Well
May I be Peaceful and at Ease
May I be Happy
If you repeat that brief poem, a 4 line prayer, to yourself several times a day, you may begin to experience true inner peace and joy!
PREPARATION/TRADITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR MANTRA MEDITATION
Getting yourself in the right mindset and setting a spiritual atmosphere will help you tremendously in your practice of meditation. Mantra Meditation (a deeply spiritual, sacred style of Meditation) offers a new opportunity of connecting with your spirit.
The words soul, God, religion, Prayer are emotionally charged words for many people, often conveying the images of submission, obedience, externally imposed regulations or rituals and unquestioning compliance. Try to put aside those images, and connect with your INNER SELF - your spirit, your true nature - however you like to think of it. The life force that is YOU is beyond your body, beyond your intellect and mind, beyond your emotions and heart. That is the part of ourselves we try to connect with through meditation. As you experience this true inner self, most people sense that they are not apart from anything - we are all ONE- like a wave in the ocean (is it truly separate from the ocean, or just an expression of the ocean?). We are an expression of the universe. Find your own definition of the nature of spirituality, soul, and the universe (be it God, Goddess, Energy, The Flow of Life). Let go of negative connotations and images, let go of fear, and reframe your spirituality in a positive way, that lets you see beauty, safety and unconditional boundless love.
To prepare yourself to chant japa, let a sense of spirituality and enthusiasm for your inner quest infuse you.
When you can, shower and dress in clean (historically white) loose fitting clothing. Traditionally, clothing is set aside to be worn ONLY during spiritual practices. This practice helps clear the mind of other issues, and prepare you to set aside space within YOURSELF for your spiritual practice.
Pull back long hair, and brush your teeth if possible. A clean and comfortable body helps keep the mind clear as well.
Sit in a sacred space that you have set aside for your spiritual practices. It can be a room, a small corner of a room, a certain seat. Whatever is practical and works for your lifestyle. Request that no one else sit in your seat, and that all who enter your sacred space do so reverently (I have a guideline that all who enter my sacred space remove their shoes, and that the space is for spiritual practice only - no work, no TV., no reading books for entertainment - just for spiritual practices - meditation, contemplation, reading scriptures, yoga (physical activity can be spiritual - such as Dance), etc. Set aside your own space and make sure that other members of your household understand its importance to you. If your space is used for a non-spiritual practice at some point, burn some incense or a candle to clear that other energy out of your space and purify it for your practice.
Create a simple altar for your space. You can use an inspirational picture (whatever is inspirational for YOU), light a candle, some incense is a nice way to keep the air sweet and the atmosphere contemplative. You can leave an offering to the divine on the altar - a piece of fruit, a flower, a poem expressing your love for the divine spirit, a leaf - an offering from your heart. Leave the offering there overnight - and if the gift is edible, on the following day eat the food as if it were a gift TO YOU from the divine. Cherish the Poem as if it were read and honored, and given back to you for safekeeping in your heart. These are all metaphors - symbols to recognize that you are offering YOURSELF to the divine.
It is difficult for us to surrender our egos - this can be a challenge. It is a practice in TRUST and LOVE. It is not about unquestioning faith. It is about purifying yourself, letting go of preconceived notions, and opening yourself to boundless, unconditional love - Divine Grace. It is also a way of honoring and being grateful for LIFE, as you commune with the life force of the universe.
Find a comfortable seated position which allows your spine to be straight and erect. If you are not comfortable sitting on the floor, use a straight backed chair. You may sit on a meditation cushion, or roll a blanket or towel under the back edge of your pelvis (under the tailbone) to tilt the pelvis slightly forward. You may also use a cushion, and sit on the edge of the cushion, tilting your pelvis. This keeps the spine straight and comfortable when sitting for extended periods of time. Release any tension in the body. Have a relaxed body, and gradually begin with two or three minutes of breathing exercises (pranayama) keeping your breath long, deep and full. Slow steady inhalations, long smooth exhalations. Gaze lovingly at the picture or objects on your altar (or if you choose not to have an altar, focus inward to your own source of calm and peace).
Offer a prayer from deep within your heart. Example of a prayer: "May the mantra remove restless thoughts and emotions. May my being become absorbed in my mantra. May I understand more deeply. May I be transformed. May my longing be filled. May the Mantra's power still my restless mind. May the Divine Being connect with me, to open my heart to its possibility."
Through the powerful experience of chanting Mantras, you are opening the door into your deepest self - the sacred sanctuary of your soul. No one else may enter here. Once you connect this deeply, you will learn to be totally at peace, at one, when things are going on around you.
HOW-TO
Mantras may be said silently to yourself, with your own inner voice, whispered, or out loud. [Saying Mantras out Loud is akin to the Technique of CHANTING.] Find the method that resonates with you.
If you are using a 1-syllable Mantra (such as OM), begin by concentrating on the rhythm of your breath. As you inhale, say to yourself OM. As you exhale, count. Inhale OM, Exhale 1 (one), Inhale OM, Exhale 2, and so forth until you count up to the number 10 and then start over again. Sometimes, you will go up to the number 12, or 13 or higher. If you notice this, just go back to the number one on the next exhalation. The idea is that the mind should go to the number 10 and be willing to start over again. There is no destination here - this Meditation technique is about THE PROCESS - clearing the mind of all thought but the Mantra.
For longer Mantras such as the Mantra So Hum use the following technique:
Begin with deep, relaxed Ujjayi breathing - calming the mind and body. Begin to be absorbed with the rhythm of the breath - deeply connected to the rhythm.
On the Inhalation, mentally repeat So
On the Exhalation, mentally repeat HUM
Begin to flow with the rhythm of silent sound and breath. Observe the sound integrating into your consciousness. Visualize the inhalation as life force energy moving into your body and down your spine, and the exhalation as energy flowing up the spine.
Enjoy the practice of this mantra technique, without the need to achieve anything. Enjoy the process. In time, your breath and Mantra will become ONE. Gradually focus your consciousness on the "third eye" - the spot right between the eyebrows (where the pituitary gland is - where the frontal lobes of our brain meet). Soon, you will notice your whole being beginning to respond to the vibrations of the sound of the mantra. This is called Japa
Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced Japa?
The practice of japa is the repetition of a single mantra until it fully integrates into ones consciousness. The repetition of the sound calms our senses and our mind. This is done silently (Manksika Japa), whispered (Upamshu Japa), or out loud/Chanting (Vaikhar Japa).
Beginners are advised to start Japa Meditation with out loud/Chanting (Vaikhar Japa). Chanting or speaking your mantra out loud helps shut out distraction and allows you to remain focused. Saying your Mantra with a chanting audio tape, designed for help with Mantra Meditation, if most helpful for the novice.
Upamshu Japa is whispered, and is generally used to purify the heart and spirit. As you progress with your practice, you will be able to keep the concentration firm and steady and be able to use Upamshu Japa.
Silent mantra, (Manksika Japa), is the MOST DIFFICULT. It is very easy for our mind to wander when it is unaccustomed to being still and silent. However, silent japa takes us the most deeply into ourselves. I recommend silent japa (Manksika Japa) for more experienced Meditators. Gradually, as you practice, you will move through all - beginning with chanting mantra out loud, gradually you will allow the sound to diminish to a soft whisper, then just the echo of eternity - the silent energy within.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions about our site? Please feel free to contact us!
Contact Us: NOSPAMelena@focalpointyoga.com
(remove the words NO SPAM from the email address please!)
WHY? - Modern science has reaffirmed what yogis have known for thousands of years - that SOUND is able to effect the chemistry of the body and mind, and alter thought patterns. It sounds like a weird New-Agey concept when you first hear about Mantra Meditation. Don't knock it until you've tried it! Mantra Meditation is a VERY Powerful technique!
You will discover that the repetition of Mantra allows your mind to focus and concentrate more completely on sound, and clear away other thoughts, emotions and distractions which divert our energies. Our senses become more acute and our mind become sharper and more perceptive as the mind clears away the jumble of unnecessary inner dialogue. We learn to preserve the our mental, and emotional energies. This enables us to develop a direction and focus in our actions. We become drawn to an uncomplicated and non-competitive life, and we transform our previous attitudes about work into a new-found appreciation in simple aspects of life. In our daily external actions, we are physically active and capable. Internally, we maintain a condition of perpetual meditation. Our simplest labors become an offering, a meditation in and of themselves.
What is it? Mantra Meditation is the technique of using SOUND to open the heart and mind. This is the Meditation Technique of Devotion, a deeply spiritual and sacred practice for many meditators, but you do not need to be "a religious" person to experience the gifts Mantra Meditation has to offer. Mantras (sounds) can be whatever you choose - they do not need to be Sanskrit Mantras (Sanskrit is an Ancient Language of India, used frequently in Yoga). A Mantra is a sound repeated over and over until it integrates into your consciousness - frees the mind from its constant DOING, and elevates you to an altered state of awareness. In this state, you can connect with your soul at its most profound level, achieving a state of universal consciousness.
You can use whatever sounds you like. During an inhalation you may say "I am" and during your exhalation "at peace." You may say simply "I am"
Mantra is often taught using Sanskrit words or phrases. Some common Mantras are listed below:
OM - the sound of the Universe (vibration of all living things)
Sat Nam - Truth
So Ham - Life/Death, light/shadow, inhalation/exhalation - the yin and yang - the integration of opposites (this is a beautiful and powerful mantra, honoring both the light and the shadow)
Om Namah Shivaya - the phoenix rising, creation born of change, TRANSFORMATION
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya - I surrender to/join with the divine will
Aham Brahmasmi - I am the creative force
Tat Tuan Asmi - I am that I am
Shanti, Shanti, Shanti - Peace, peace, peace
Some common Mantras in English:
I am
I surrender to Your will (God, Goddess, Universe, What IS)
Love
Peace to all
I open to What IS
ALL IS WELL
Lilias Folan (Grand Dame of Yoga in the United States) taught me one of my favorite Mantras, a Tibetan Prayer, translated into English as Follows:
May I be filled with LovingKindness
May I be Well
May I be Peaceful and at Ease
May I be Happy
If you repeat that brief poem, a 4 line prayer, to yourself several times a day, you may begin to experience true inner peace and joy!
PREPARATION/TRADITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR MANTRA MEDITATION
Getting yourself in the right mindset and setting a spiritual atmosphere will help you tremendously in your practice of meditation. Mantra Meditation (a deeply spiritual, sacred style of Meditation) offers a new opportunity of connecting with your spirit.
The words soul, God, religion, Prayer are emotionally charged words for many people, often conveying the images of submission, obedience, externally imposed regulations or rituals and unquestioning compliance. Try to put aside those images, and connect with your INNER SELF - your spirit, your true nature - however you like to think of it. The life force that is YOU is beyond your body, beyond your intellect and mind, beyond your emotions and heart. That is the part of ourselves we try to connect with through meditation. As you experience this true inner self, most people sense that they are not apart from anything - we are all ONE- like a wave in the ocean (is it truly separate from the ocean, or just an expression of the ocean?). We are an expression of the universe. Find your own definition of the nature of spirituality, soul, and the universe (be it God, Goddess, Energy, The Flow of Life). Let go of negative connotations and images, let go of fear, and reframe your spirituality in a positive way, that lets you see beauty, safety and unconditional boundless love.
To prepare yourself to chant japa, let a sense of spirituality and enthusiasm for your inner quest infuse you.
When you can, shower and dress in clean (historically white) loose fitting clothing. Traditionally, clothing is set aside to be worn ONLY during spiritual practices. This practice helps clear the mind of other issues, and prepare you to set aside space within YOURSELF for your spiritual practice.
Pull back long hair, and brush your teeth if possible. A clean and comfortable body helps keep the mind clear as well.
Sit in a sacred space that you have set aside for your spiritual practices. It can be a room, a small corner of a room, a certain seat. Whatever is practical and works for your lifestyle. Request that no one else sit in your seat, and that all who enter your sacred space do so reverently (I have a guideline that all who enter my sacred space remove their shoes, and that the space is for spiritual practice only - no work, no TV., no reading books for entertainment - just for spiritual practices - meditation, contemplation, reading scriptures, yoga (physical activity can be spiritual - such as Dance), etc. Set aside your own space and make sure that other members of your household understand its importance to you. If your space is used for a non-spiritual practice at some point, burn some incense or a candle to clear that other energy out of your space and purify it for your practice.
Create a simple altar for your space. You can use an inspirational picture (whatever is inspirational for YOU), light a candle, some incense is a nice way to keep the air sweet and the atmosphere contemplative. You can leave an offering to the divine on the altar - a piece of fruit, a flower, a poem expressing your love for the divine spirit, a leaf - an offering from your heart. Leave the offering there overnight - and if the gift is edible, on the following day eat the food as if it were a gift TO YOU from the divine. Cherish the Poem as if it were read and honored, and given back to you for safekeeping in your heart. These are all metaphors - symbols to recognize that you are offering YOURSELF to the divine.
It is difficult for us to surrender our egos - this can be a challenge. It is a practice in TRUST and LOVE. It is not about unquestioning faith. It is about purifying yourself, letting go of preconceived notions, and opening yourself to boundless, unconditional love - Divine Grace. It is also a way of honoring and being grateful for LIFE, as you commune with the life force of the universe.
Find a comfortable seated position which allows your spine to be straight and erect. If you are not comfortable sitting on the floor, use a straight backed chair. You may sit on a meditation cushion, or roll a blanket or towel under the back edge of your pelvis (under the tailbone) to tilt the pelvis slightly forward. You may also use a cushion, and sit on the edge of the cushion, tilting your pelvis. This keeps the spine straight and comfortable when sitting for extended periods of time. Release any tension in the body. Have a relaxed body, and gradually begin with two or three minutes of breathing exercises (pranayama) keeping your breath long, deep and full. Slow steady inhalations, long smooth exhalations. Gaze lovingly at the picture or objects on your altar (or if you choose not to have an altar, focus inward to your own source of calm and peace).
Offer a prayer from deep within your heart. Example of a prayer: "May the mantra remove restless thoughts and emotions. May my being become absorbed in my mantra. May I understand more deeply. May I be transformed. May my longing be filled. May the Mantra's power still my restless mind. May the Divine Being connect with me, to open my heart to its possibility."
Through the powerful experience of chanting Mantras, you are opening the door into your deepest self - the sacred sanctuary of your soul. No one else may enter here. Once you connect this deeply, you will learn to be totally at peace, at one, when things are going on around you.
HOW-TO
Mantras may be said silently to yourself, with your own inner voice, whispered, or out loud. [Saying Mantras out Loud is akin to the Technique of CHANTING.] Find the method that resonates with you.
If you are using a 1-syllable Mantra (such as OM), begin by concentrating on the rhythm of your breath. As you inhale, say to yourself OM. As you exhale, count. Inhale OM, Exhale 1 (one), Inhale OM, Exhale 2, and so forth until you count up to the number 10 and then start over again. Sometimes, you will go up to the number 12, or 13 or higher. If you notice this, just go back to the number one on the next exhalation. The idea is that the mind should go to the number 10 and be willing to start over again. There is no destination here - this Meditation technique is about THE PROCESS - clearing the mind of all thought but the Mantra.
For longer Mantras such as the Mantra So Hum use the following technique:
Begin with deep, relaxed Ujjayi breathing - calming the mind and body. Begin to be absorbed with the rhythm of the breath - deeply connected to the rhythm.
On the Inhalation, mentally repeat So
On the Exhalation, mentally repeat HUM
Begin to flow with the rhythm of silent sound and breath. Observe the sound integrating into your consciousness. Visualize the inhalation as life force energy moving into your body and down your spine, and the exhalation as energy flowing up the spine.
Enjoy the practice of this mantra technique, without the need to achieve anything. Enjoy the process. In time, your breath and Mantra will become ONE. Gradually focus your consciousness on the "third eye" - the spot right between the eyebrows (where the pituitary gland is - where the frontal lobes of our brain meet). Soon, you will notice your whole being beginning to respond to the vibrations of the sound of the mantra. This is called Japa
Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced Japa?
The practice of japa is the repetition of a single mantra until it fully integrates into ones consciousness. The repetition of the sound calms our senses and our mind. This is done silently (Manksika Japa), whispered (Upamshu Japa), or out loud/Chanting (Vaikhar Japa).
Beginners are advised to start Japa Meditation with out loud/Chanting (Vaikhar Japa). Chanting or speaking your mantra out loud helps shut out distraction and allows you to remain focused. Saying your Mantra with a chanting audio tape, designed for help with Mantra Meditation, if most helpful for the novice.
Upamshu Japa is whispered, and is generally used to purify the heart and spirit. As you progress with your practice, you will be able to keep the concentration firm and steady and be able to use Upamshu Japa.
Silent mantra, (Manksika Japa), is the MOST DIFFICULT. It is very easy for our mind to wander when it is unaccustomed to being still and silent. However, silent japa takes us the most deeply into ourselves. I recommend silent japa (Manksika Japa) for more experienced Meditators. Gradually, as you practice, you will move through all - beginning with chanting mantra out loud, gradually you will allow the sound to diminish to a soft whisper, then just the echo of eternity - the silent energy within.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions about our site? Please feel free to contact us!
Contact Us: NOSPAMelena@focalpointyoga.com
(remove the words NO SPAM from the email address please!)
Thursday, May 8, 2008
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