Effat Ethos Magazine issue 9 by effatuniversity

COFFEE BREAK Events & Interviews

Opinion Piece

Personal Development

Fashion

Personal Stories

Travel

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Music Photography Focus 4

EVENTS & INTERVIEWS FIXING THE SAUDI ARABIAN LANGUAGE BARRIER Sumaiyya Naseem

Cultural diversity is a unique element in the Saudi society. Underneath the abaya or behind the wheels of cars are men and women from different countries and cultures and this may not be apparent all the time. One distinguishing factors amongst members of the Saudi Arabian society becomes their language. While in the west authorities make significant efforts to spread their language, the same is not the case for Arabic in Saudi Arabia. Many non-Saudis, myself included, live decades in the Kingdom without really mastering the Arabic language or even learning more than ‘Yalla’, ‘Shukran’ and ‘Afwan’. This is one of the realities that inspired Hadeel AlAbbasi to launch the I Can Talk Arabic (ICTA)- a centre that teaches Arabic to expats in the region.

the phone after she agreed to give me an interview about her institute and its recent Open Day event. Ms. Hadeel shared her opinion that spreading language benefits not just the expats but also the language itself. In the case of Arabic, it also spreads the message of Islam. At a leadership summit in Qatar, she had observed that the majority of the Muslims spoke in English as opposed to Arabic which is the language that unites all Muslims. Through focus groups with expats she found out that most wanted to learn Arabic for communication purposes. And so, ICTA was created. At first the centre only had one class and eventually there were different levels of reading, writing, grammar and even two book clubs. The Qur’an circle in ICTA is a great way in which non-Muslims can learn about Islam through discussions and tafsir.

I was fortunate to converse with Ms. Hadeel over 5

The book clubs are an interesting feature at the centre. In the beginner’s level, the students read Children’s books to improve their reading and writing. In the advanced levels they face more complicated paragraphs that help them advance their own level. Watching the students advance and sustain in their learning is a source of satisfaction and happiness for Ms. Hadeel.

An impressive highlight of the event is the abovementioned perspective on the Hijab and Abaya. Three women participated and dressed up in different ‘types’ of the abaya. This showed how the abaya presents a choice for women and accentuates their own sense of style along with providing them with proper coverage and modesty. Ms. Hadeel’s advice for students of languages is to have confidence in using what they learn and to not be shy to make mistakes. Teachers should also encourage students and tell them that it’s okay to make mistakes. To women who want to be active leaders in the society Ms. Hadeel AlAbbasi extends the message of patience and perseverance. Every time you want to give up remind yourself why you started in the first place.

The cultural diversity at the ICTA centre is an enriching experience for both the students and the teachers. It provides connectivity, support groups and brings together the different life experiences and perspective of the people. According to Ms. Hadeel, this cultural diverse experience is truly the ‘ruh and life’ of the institute. The Open Day event took place on March 11th and was attended by around 85 guests. The event delivered the rich history and traditions of Saudi Arabia. The attendees received a true Saudi Arabian cultural experience because of the dance and the dinner. Susan Duncan, a guest at the event, shares that the ‘each aspect of the event was a delight’, especially the perspective Saudi women gave about the hijab and the abaya.

Helen Thomas White House Journalist: Trust, Justice & the American Way

Nadine Hussain On Wednesday 11th February, the Effat Library and Cultural Museum hosted the first monthly speaker for the Cultural Heritage series of 2015. Dr. Rosemarie Esber, an Oral Historian, author and consultant for the World Bank and United Nations, presented about the renowned White House journalist Helen Thomas. Dr. Esber’s talk was based on her oral history interview with Helen Thomas. 6

The American author and reporter Helen Thomas was the first female member of the White House Press corps.

were separated. The reality in DC was shocking. It was the time of racial segregation between the “Whites” and “Blacks”.

Helen Thomas was an astonishing woman and a hero for many. She questioned the American presidents relentlessly in order to seek the truth for the people. She came from a humble family who emigrated from Lebanon to the United States. She grew up in two cultures and experienced racism and discrimination along the way. Although Helen Thomas’ parents did not read and write English, they encouraged her and told her she could do anything she wanted in life.

After much persistence she got a job as a copygirl at the now defunct Washington Daily News. This was followed by a period of reporting on societal issues and other women’s news for United Press. After a struggle of nearly 20 years, Helen Thomas succeeded in getting a position at the National Press Club and covered John F. Kennedy’s early presidential campaign. Helen and a small group of female journalists had to fight very hard to be included in the National Press club since women were excluded from attending. According to one the women, Helen was a source of courage for the rest of them.

In her interview by Dr. Rose Esber, Helen says “I feel that my ethical standards for life came from my father. He gave me a strong sense of wrong and right. Every time I make a stance for integrity, I feel my father. My desires to be a better person came from him. That is why I am always fighting about discrimination, civil rights and people’s rights to know.”

Helen loved being a journalist, learned something new everyday and tried everyday to deliver accurate news to the American people. Throughout her career, Helen sought the truth and said, “If you are afraid to speak up, you have let democracy down.”

After graduating from college, Helen moved to Washington DC under the pretense of visiting her aunt. In truth, she wanted to be where the news was happening. When she arrived in Washington, the city was subrogated where black and white

Dr. Rose Esber’s presentation about Helen Thomas was very inspiring for Effat students and faculty. With effort and persistence, we can do anything, achieve anything.

— Dr. Shehata’s Message

Farah T Mohammad 7

On 4th February, 2015 Dr. Mohammed Ali Hassan Shehata gave a very interesting lecture to students of Effat University. The lecture was organized by the Student Government. Dr. Shehata, a professor at Effat University at the College of Engineering, achieved his PhD in Mathematics and a Master’s degree in Electricity in the United States. In his lecture Dr. Shehata talked about what it was like to be a student, and this made students realize that our faculty are just like us. Like many others Dr. Shehata experienced many things in his life and explored different interests. His enthusiasm developed his interested in acting, writing poetry and singing – a fact many students do not know. The kind professor encouraged the students in attendance to dreams as much as they can in order to achieve greatness. Dr. Shehata believed that human beings discover as much as they learn and this reflected in the fact that he loves to discover and experience new things in life. Failure tends to be a better teacher than success. In addition, he is interested in both electricity and theory of power. He studied at Halawan University in Cairo. Luckily him and his peers received training at the industrial area next to the University. This helped them progress in their field. Dr. Shehata reveals that his professor recognized his strengths before he himself could do so - meaning that his professor knew the theory of power was the right subject for him while Dr. Shehata wanted to study electricity.

“Failure tends to be a better teacher than success.”

In order to educate, Dr. Shehata had to face a lot of transportation troubles. This isn’t unlike Effat students who have to rely on others, except that Dr. Shehata would often have to put his life at risk due to transportation difficulties. His determination and resolve play an important role – something we should all learn from.

An important message in his brief lecture was the ease of modern times. Back in his day, books and simple resources were not available as they are today through the internet and libraries. However, the disadvantage of not having resources at hand did not stop Dr. Shehata to educate himself and to progress into a lecturer and a teacher. What we can learn from this is to make the most of what is around us in order to achieve our goals.

Dr. Shehata’s message to the students is to dream and work hard for the dream instead of wasting time and living an unproductive life. 8

AECOM Invites Effat Students for International Women’s Day Celebration International Women's Day (IWD), initially called International Working Women's Day, is celebrated on March 8 every year. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation, and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political, and social achievements. This year AECOM took it upon them to host a charming event celebrating this day with Dar Al Hekma (DAH) and Effat University students with motivational and inspirational speeches from some of the most accomplished women in Jeddah’s society. AECOM is a platform devoted to invest in public infrastructure and private real estate opportunities as a joint venture partner that leverages the AECOM Technical and Management Support Services platform.

women’s inventions and contributions was also shown. Did you know windshield wipers were invented by Mary Anderson more than 110 years ago?!

The event included ice breaker games, a presentation on the history of IWD, and the history of women in the region. An inspiring video about the

Next, we heard the bouncing reality Leena Al Maeena faced when starting Jeddah United and how she coaches all those under her wing to be

We were honored to hear the stories and struggles the three guest speakers faced in order to achieve their goals. We started with Maha Taher’s story of a humble wish for giving back that formulated into a huge success. Through social media Taher managed to get volunteers for community service and eventually founded the Young Initiative Group which led many campaigns including the Jeddah Corniche Cleanup. They also managed to raise a good amount of money for a poor child’s surgery. Maha’s message to the society is to be charitable and to make people smile. The least you could do is buy a can of Pepsi for a thirsty street cleaner.

strong determined pioneers to follow their heart’s desire whether they aspire to be athletes or engineers. Al Maeena was one of the first Saudi women to climb Mt. Everest. She continues to strive in making women’s sports a success in the region. Leena AlMaeena stands by the example of Khadija Bint Khuwaylid, the honorable wife of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings be Upon Him), who would climb the mountain at the age of 55 to give food to the Prophet and to comfort him. This was no easy task and required a lot of physical and mental strength. Today women who are 55 think they are too old for sports, and this is the attitude that Leena AlMaeena hopes to change.

The speeches were wrapped up with a very humorous delivery given by Hala Al Harthy about her road to where she is, her initial thoughts behind her journey and what she aspires to do. Hala AlHarthy is the first Style Consultant in the Kingdom. She offers her expert advice and services to many clients including celebrities. The event was an interactive feat with students sharing their struggles and thoughts with the speakers and the female workers from AECOM. The students were answered with positive replies, given constructive feedback and practical solutions. AECOM’s event was a success with many lessons and inspirations for all.

Winner Of The Bronze Palm Award for Film An Interview It is the ultimate mission of Effat University to empower us Effaties and give us the tools to become respectable Effat Ambassadors that will spread good and create a positive change in our societies with the

Halima Bensaid

Nora Al-Fraikh, a talented freshman student of the VDP has succeeded in achieving just that. During her very first semester at Effat she managed to direct a short film worthy of the Bronze Palm at the notable Saudi Film Festival. 10

Ethos magazine brings to you this exclusive interview with Nora for your inquisitive benefit. Take out your notepads Effaties! This is your chance at learning the secrets of your gifted fellow Effat Star! Our readers are eager to know you! Tell us about yourself. I have been to 6 different schools in the last 12 years and I graduated from Jazeerat Al-Uloom School. I learned a bit of ASL by myself last summer and I plan on taking further courses this upcoming summer. Film making is the one hobby that I enjoy. For the last two years, I’ve been making short videos of whatever I think is beautiful and soothing.

What is your film about and what made you submit it to the Saudi Film Festival? This film was my final project for the first VDP course that I took in my first semester. It’s about a girl who seeks revenge against her abusive father. It’s 1:40 minutes long. I and other students received an email from Dr. Ayman Ragab nominating us to participate. I hesitated at first because I didn’t think that my film would make it. My instructors advised me to participate and sent my film to the festival committee and I received an acceptance email after a while. I didn’t expect my first film ever to be accepted in the festival, let alone winning 3rd place in the competition! What makes the Saudi Film Festive unique? Unfortunately, I did not attend the festival myself. I think that there are many young talented people in Saudi Arabia and I feel great knowing that we all get a chance to participate. What I loved the most about the festival is that they allow everyone to express themselves even if they discussed sensitive issues. 11

Have you done any other films before this? This was my first project. I hope to make more in the near future. What was your inspiration behind this film? I interact with victims of physical abuse on regular basis and it pains me to see how such terrible acts affect their lives. I wanted to reach out to the parents hoping that they would realize how damaging it is. What's your next project? Are you planning to enter any other film festivals in the near future? My next project will most likely be about female empowerment. I applied to Zayed university Middle East Film Festival and Inshallah I plan on applying to the Dubai Film Festival this year. What led you to choose videography as a career? Did you choose to come to Effat because it had VDP? I’ve always been passionate about filmmaking. I remember the joy of making my first film in the 6th grade with the help of a friend. I spent the whole summer trying to decide if I should apply for psychology or VDP. People have always told me that I wouldn’t have a future with video production and that I should study something more traditional so I went on and applied for psychology. But before the summer ended, I changed my major to VDP because I was afraid of studying something that I was not passionate about. I can’t imagine if I had been studying something that I don’t love. What do you hope to do with your talent in benefitting your society? My number one goal is to empower women. I want to raise awareness and discuss important issues. I want to defend those who can’t defend themselves and I want to speak up for those who can’t speak up for themselves. What do you think of the future of filmmaking in Saudi Arabia, particularly the future of women in the industry? People are now aware and interested in art. I believe that our generation is the generation of art and media. There are many talented people here in Saudi Arabia and especially in Effat. I have seen many talented girls in our university and I believe we will all have bright futures with our talents and the help of our inspiring instructors. What was the most important lesson you learned by working on this project? Do you have any advice you can share with your fellow VDP students? Never underestimate yourselves. Stick with your ideas if you truly believe in them and give it your best. Everything else will fall into place. Is there anyone you wish to thank for helping to make your film a success? Have you dedicated this film to anyone? A special thank you for my friend Ftoon. She helped me find a way to express myself and supported me all the way. I couldn’t have done it without her encouragement. Thank you for inspiring me.

Reflections of Our Purpose Yumna Ansari â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Club Leader On 4th of March Geek Club organised the BaharatApp Workshop which went pretty well, if I do say so myself. BaharatApp is a social network application for food lovers on which they can share their cooking experiences. The team won the Arab Mobile App Challenge in 2014. In the end of the workshop, the presenters shared some of the lessons they learned while developing such an application. Therefore, I thought I would take this opportunity to connect some of these lessons to what we're trying to achieve at Effat University Tech Society Club: 1) Explore: we want to create an environment which allows you to explore different areas of interest where you're not constricted by the courses you're taking, or the major you're in. 2) Self-Learning: Self learning is a skill, and as a club and society, we want to encourage students to develop the ability to self learn. One way we're attempting to do this is by releasing weekly challenges. These challenges expose you to different ideas and concepts and encourage you to "google" for answers. 3) Ask for Help: we want to create an environment which encourages you to ask questions. Confused about a challenge or having trouble with your program, send us a message! It's as easy as that. We can't guarantee we'll know the answer, but sometimes working together on a problem helps solve that problem ten times faster! 4) It's not all about the programming: really it isn't. Developing an app, a website, or a game doesn't just consist of developers and engineers, it consists of artists, marketers, researchers, scientists, story tellers, writers and musicians. You need a team of diverse skills sets. Therefore, this society isn't just for CS, IS, and ECE students. It's for everyone. 5) Build a strong team: knowing how to work well with people is an important skill. One of our goals is to expose you to tools that allow smooth workflow between team members of different skill-sets. 6) NEVER Give Up: If your dream is to become a game developer or develop the next social network, know that with every dream, comes hard work, dedication and persistence. I'm not gonna lie, programming is not easy, but the more you practice, the better you get. Take it from a senior student. And lastly: "The more you give to your education, the more your education will give to you." And yes, I just made that quote up. Thank you Geek Club for organising such a great event!

ART BROUGHT ME TO ISLAM AN INTERVIEW Sumaiyya Naseem On March 9th the Effat Library and Cultural Museum hosted their second lecture in the ‘Cultural Heritage’ series. The lecture titled ‘A Story about Fine Art’ was presented by Kitty Rabbas, a German art collector who believes that art has a unique effect on us. The event was attended by many Effat students and faculty who later engaged with Ms. Kitty in very interesting conversations.

fronted many facets and dualities of life that eventually led her to Islam. She finds inspiration in the Mysticism approach of Islam. Maria Cismaru’s painting ‘Storm’ was one of the first paintings that Ms. Kitty liked. She interpreted the painting as a representation of the change in direction that takes place in everything. Ms. Kitty Rabbas believes that her struggle to find the meaning took her to her destination. She believes that struggle is never a smooth process and it leads to the blending in of the opposing forces. For example, ‘controversial’ art is eventually accepted in the community.

Due to her upbringing and parents who loved visiting museums and galleries, Ms. Kitty was always interested in art but only realised its true influence when she met the Romanian painter Maria Cismaru. Through Cismaru’s paintings and the books she’d been reading, Ms. Kitty Rabbas con14

Very similarly, Ms. Kitty Rabbas learned that Islam and being modern can actually blend and go very well together.

follow a spiritually advanced person because there is so much you can derive from their life and work. She followed Maria Cismaru whose paintings truly became a source of spiritual discovery and the concepts in her paintings resonated with the messages she read in the Qur’an.

Ms. Kitty finds inspiration in Sufism and its focus on the nafs and ruh. As someone who finds meaning in art, Ms. Kitty believes that it is uplifting to

What got you interested in art? My parents would take me to art museums and I was always reading because you can’t limit art to one dimension. I was always attracted to visual art but I didn’t know it could have such an effect too. How did you start collecting art? Initially I saw a painting at a hospital and felt there was a story behind it. Painters and artists have to research, travel and develop their skill so they don’t really have the time to promote their work. By collecting Maria Cismaru’s art, Ms. Kitty Rabbas felt she was helping out in a way while benefitting from the art’s meaning at the same time. Which is the first artwork that you purchased? Storm by Maria Cismaru Do you have a favourite work of art? Storm by Maria Cismaru

Conquest of Mongolia by Maria Cismaru

What would you like to say to students who have an interest in becoming art collectors? It’s always worth it to collect art. If you like something you should buy it. Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone to discover a new type of art? I think this whole collection itself required me to step way outside my comfort zone. Initially I didn’t intend to showcase my collection. But the interesting story is that when I was about to do Hajj I had to make a will so I thought ‘What will I do with my collection?’ So I wrote to Athr Gallery and told them they could do use my paintings in the future. They were surprised and one of the curator’s asked me to exhibit her collection and I got ambitious and went ahead with it. Although I faced challenges in getting it done, I learned a new detail every time I exhibited it. 15

Conquest of Mongolia by Maria Cismaru

What was your biggest challenge? When I did shahada I thought it was a big deal for me. I was one the people who didn’t know how someone could change their religion. When I decided to become a Muslim my mother was chilled out and supported me. Actually seeing it done is a different experience but after I converted I wondered why there was so much fuss before. Is there any work of art that you’d like to own? Ahmed Mater’s Magnetism What international art destination would you like to visit again? I’ve visited them many times but I’d love to visit Istanbul, Louvre in Paris and the British Museum in London to see the Napoleon artefacts. Are there any galleries or artists that people should know more about? Along with the other galleries, Arabian Wings have been doing some really amazing work. Are there any places you recommend? Arabian Wings, the galleries in Balad. The art scene is very competitive in Saudi Arabia. 16

Magnetism by Ahmed Mater

And lastly, book Recommendations by Ms. Kitty Rabbas:

Every society since time immemorial has been riddled with social issues and some are so ingrained in the social fabric that they become difficult to handle. Many a times issues are talked about but not much change materialises through these discussions. However, one excellent way to address social issues is through art or expression of awareness through artful portrayal.

Tarbwyyat Club's Anti Smoking Initiative

Nahid Al-Hariri Isra Ather

Tarbwyyat Club’s members and their leader (Nahid), decided to take the initiative to support a group of Effaties in putting forward the message of smoking being harmful. This was done through a play created and enacted by those students. Dr. Leila Rami, an instructor of Islamic education in the GEP Department, helped the students in displaying their show. The play took place on February 18th during activity time in Effat Hall. The girls involved in the play were Alina Zainab Khan, Fiza Mirza, Haniya Khurram, Hiba Naeem, Insharah Ansari, Isra Athar, Saadia Saleem and Sarah Aman.

The usage of Hookah has increased immensely in the past few years and has had many harmful implications on the people and their lives which means it is a very prominent issue – a view shared by Dr. Andrea Taguibao, the Director of Enhancement Centres. These harmful effects have been side-lined by many by saying they are not similar to cigarettes, while they are actually worse than them. One sitting of hookah is equivalent to 120 cigarettes. This eventually develops lung cancer, heart diseases at a rate faster than habitual smoking of cigarettes. In addition, a person can get addicted to hookah faster than to cigarettes. If smoked during pregnancy it has adverse effects on the development of the baby, and may even lead to still birth or other severe complications including women underweight babies.

Effat Hall is a popular venue for events and due to this the students had a mere week to prepare – rehearsals included. The widespread increase in Hookah smoking is the reason behind the idea. 18

Some of the above mentioned effects were highlighted in the play which was a short story about a girl who was naïve but simple (Sarah). Sarah befriends a girl who is addicted to smoking Hookah (Insharah). Sarah develops an addicted despite the warnings given to her by her mother and sister (Hiba and Fiza) and her best friend (Saadia). Due to her smoking she develops lung cancer a year later. She was on her deathbed and seeing her death

Insharah repents for her own mistakes. Overall, this play outlined the reasons why teenagers get into it - peer pressure, the misconceptions about hookah. More importantly, the play highlighted the Islamic viewpoint about such self-harm habits, about friendship and what the religion teaches us in both aspects. The members of Tarbwyyat Club hope to raise awareness about different issues in the future.

E C I T NO

Women In Engineering Club Launched Sadaf Usman Effat University’s Student Life recently launched a new and exciting club under the leadership of Tala Sallam. The Women in Engineering Club aspires to bring together students who are interested in Engineering and specifically target the ECE students of Effat University. The launching event included a brief and informative speech by the leader who welcomed the attendees and stated the purpose and aspirations behind the club. The speech was followed by an introduction of the Club offices and an interesting competition which was comprised of questions about physics and engineering. The students enjoyed Domino’s pizza and cold drinks followed by a strawberry and vanilla cake. 19

Here’s Why I think Women Should Drive Maghferah AlSamman

drive. There are many reasons offered for this decision, but the fact is that in the modern times the right to mobility should not be taken away. Women should be allowed to drive because it is safer, faster and cheaper. The following article is just a few reasons why we should all consider women’s driving as acceptable. Why is it safer for woman to drive? Women have to depend on taxis and drivers in order to get to their destination, even at night times. This could be very dangerous as it’s not safe to trust strangers. We have no idea what their intentions are or what they have in mind, but we risk ourselves to go to our jobs and schools. There are many studies which show that women are safer drivers than men because of their nurturing nature. Women also are quicker at finding solutions and majority of the women don’t have quick tempers like men do. Why is it faster? It is faster because most of our drivers don’t talk in the same language as us, which is Arabic. Most of them don't know the directions and houses. So it could be better if a woman drives herself. She already knows where she’s heading, without having to give an order to someone who might not understand. Women also would not have to wait for men to drive them to their destination. A lot of time is often wasted because there is no one to drop us off at where we want to go. Why is it cheaper? Taking a taxi back and forth can really get expensive, especially if it’s a regular trip. Being able to drive assures that you don’t have to pay each time you want to go out. In conclusion, we all agree that letting a woman drive has those 3 benefits that every woman needs. There are many women who drive daily in anther countries without being involved in accidents. According to an online article, while men are probably better at passing the driving test, women are better at reading the road signs and identifying hazardous situations.

OPINION PIECES

Saudi Arabia is often referred to as the country where women are not allowed to

STRAY CATS IN SAUDI ARABIA Sumaiyya Naseem

A very important issue that I’d like to discuss is the

as well as relearn that humans are not out there to

lack of animal rights in Saudi Arabia. Many people

harm them. A problem in this society is that peo-

dismiss animals and they don’t care about what

ple think that street cats are a lost cause, but they

happens to them. The thing is animals are similar

aren’t at all and they have so much hope for

to us in many ways; they eat, sleep, love, and

change.

grieve. They feel excitement, happiness, fear and depression. They need affection, have different personalities, and different taste in food. They could suffer from psychological disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety and paranoia. The animals I’d like to focus on in this article are cats. Cats are beautiful and loving creatures. They are playful and friendly. The reason many cats we see in the street not behaving in the friendly manner I just described, is because they are homeless and scared. These cats are not only starving, but they are in constant fear of being run over, beaten or kicked by people, and are in a survival race against each other. Street cats are acting out of character. Any human put in the same horrible situation would not act like his or herself. If we remove cats from these horrible situations, we will notice the cat beginning to heal emotionally. They will slowly realize

BEFORE & AFTER: Kitty, adopted by Kawther

they don’t have to be in defense mode anymore, 21

People here are conditioned to think that cats

new environment and humans. The worst cases

spread diseases, and therefore they are pests and

can even be helped.

must be terminated. Many vets in Saudi Arabia say

Saudi Arabia decided that a cat’s life has no value,

that cats in Saudi have no rabies. Humans get sick

and it isn’t worth saving. What is the most surpris-

and get diseases, but we don’t terminate them.

ing is that there are no official animal shelters in

We instead help them and cure them. There is a

Saudi Arabia, let alone acknowledgement that cats

cure for almost every disease a cat can have. Most

are creatures not to be harmed. They are consid-

of the time, cats don’t get sick from humans and

ered pests in this country and are handled like

humans don’t get sick from cats. Diseases in cats

cockroaches.

aren’t airborne. Treating cats like pests and killing them to deI have captured feral and wild cats that were very

crease their population is atrocious. There are nu-

aggressive but I understood why they were acting

merous narrations attributed to Prophet Muham-

that way. They were aggressive because they

mad, showing the significance of one’s treatment

thought they were in danger. All I had to do was

of animals. In other words, we can consider one’s

wait a few days until they realized they weren’t.

treatment of animals as a reflection of one’s spir-

All cats can be helped no matter how aggressive

itual life. A narration of Ibn Umar that the Prophet

they are. All I did was give them time. The most

said: “A woman was punished in Hell because of a

unmanageable cats were able to adapt to their

cat which she had confined until it died. She did not give it to eat or to drink when it was confined, nor did she free it so that it might eat the vermin of the earth” (Narrated by alBukhaari, 3140; Muslim, 2242. There is also a similar report from Abu Hurayrah). Another Islamic narration of Jabir ibn Abd-allah that a donkey whose face had been branded passed by the Prophet, and he said, “May Allah curse the one who branded it (on the face).” (Narrated by Muslim, 2217). If the act of starving or branding an animal is considered against God’s rules of mercy, aren’t poisoning them, banning to feed them, and letting them roam in the street to be run over, all against Islam? It is our responsibility as humans to take care of everything God has given us and help the less fortunate. So instead of leaving the cats in the street or poisoning them, the solution is decreasing their population. Mr. Robert Khaksari, an environmentalist and a profes-

BEFORE & AFTER: Cat adopted by Mr. Robert

sor at Effat University, strongly believes that 22

spaying and neutering is the solution because it is an excellent option to decrease the overpopulation of starving and suffering strays. This will create a balance of creatures in the environment. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is the first humane society to be established in the United States of America. They define spaying and neutering as “removing the ovaries and uterus of a female pet” and “removing the testicles of [a] male dog or cat”. It is a common recommended procedure “that requires minimal hospitalization and offers lifelong health benefits.” According to PAWS.ORG, a non-profit animal shelter in the US, spaying and neutering will reduce and eliminate “The odds of breast cancer and dangerous uterine infections in females and prostate problems and testicular cancer in males” and it reduces “the tendency to bite.”, as well as many other benefits. Not BEFORE & AFTER: Nick, adopted by Dima

only would this control the stray cat population, but it would benefit their behavior and

So spaying and neutering are solutions for street

health.

cats. According to Addustour, a Jordanian daily According to Dr. Muhammad Khalid, a professor of

Arabic newspaper, it says that in 2008, Dubai’s

Islamic studies at Effat University, “Although pre-

Municipality announced the start of a daily pro-

venting an animal from reproducing is preventing

gram to neuter stray cats to control their numbers,

a natural process, it is absolutely permissible to do

and they managed to capture 500 cats in one

so with cats in our context as long as the proce-

month. So basically, Dubai has adopted a 1st world

dure and the consequences do not prove harmful

civilized animal control program. Saudi Arabia

for them.” This is in line with Ibn Al-Uthaymeen Al-

could do this as well since neutering and spaying is

Tamimi, one of the most prominent Saudi Sunni

legal and permissible by law here.

Muslim Islamic scholars’ fatwa where he said: “If What should be understood; Cats are loving and

there are too many cats and they are a nuisance, and if the operation will not harm them, then

misunderstood creatures. Cats should be treated

there is nothing wrong with it, because this is

with kindness according to Islam. Cats in this coun-

better than killing them after they have been cre-

try do not spread diseases and they do not have

ated.” (Fataawa Islamiyyah, 4/448). Spaying and

rabies. All cats can be helped instead of killed.

neutering is a procedure openly done in every sin-

Spaying and neutering is the solution to over pop-

gle veterinary clinic in Saudi Arabia, therefore al-

ulation. Kindness to God’s creatures above all is a

lowed in Saudi Arabia.

must. 23

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT 5 Things Every Freshman Should Know Sarah Bashneni 1.

Take full advantage of your first year in university and do not slack off. The first year is when you will have the easier subjects from your four/five year plan so make use of your time, be active in the university and state your presence (eg: join clubs, create new clubs, become a member of student government).

Avoid plagiarism at all costs! It is a huge no-no in the academic world and you will give bad impressions to your current, as well as future, professors.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too hard on yourself if your grades donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t meet your expectations. There is always room for improvement. Luckily for us, our university has provided us with tutoring for those seeking a little extra help in particular subjects.

Avoid procrastinating! Those boring assignments that you think about and want to leave till next week to complete? Do yourself a favor and get them done as soon as you can. You will be grateful you did.

Finally, enjoy your university experience and do not wish it away; it will go faster than you think. Learn as much from it as you can throughout the time you are here and make the most of it!

Sharing and Getting Knowledge by Social Media Duaa Khojah Knowledge is in different kinds of old science since the ancient time of human history. Sciences like astrology, medical, psychology, old chemistry (Alchemist), war arts and many others. All that knowledge was transferred in ways like trading and business between lands, or even sometimes after raging wars between tribes or nations. Means of transferring knowledge developed through history, especially at the time of the industrial revolution. People and countries around the world started competing with each other. At that time governments started investing more on schools and big universities. Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in various subjects made them travel to very far countries only to get the knowledge and transfer it to their own countries. This led to many researches and inventions.

In the past decade transferring and sharing knowledge became easier because of the internet revolution. Today social media is a tool for getting knowledge and diversifying interests. We can use social media not only for following news or joining a community. Many websites now offer online education and free information for us to use and gain. The following are ways in which we can exchange information.

1. Online videos and streaming: Websites like Youtube, Dailymotion, Vimeo, Metacafe are providing channels for each user who can upload videos. Students can find channels that provide recorded programs or shows for all sciences. You can watch videos and documentaries which inform you about your interests. There are also videos uploaded by teachers and institutions that actually teach you in the comfort of your own home. 2. Social communication apps: Social Media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr allow you to communicate with people from all over the world. Now it is easier for us to exchange knowledge and experience and get fast answers from anyone anywhere. It goes beyond that with the option of joining groups of a cause or a specific science. You can also learn about different cultures and develop an understanding of the world. 3. Online Education: Websites like KhanAcademy.com and Coursera.org offer free courses on a variety of subjects. Coursera actually gives certificates and the courses are affiliated with renowned Universities from around the world. You can develop your interest or even learn languages.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to go online and learn! 25

Positivity Pills Sarah Bashneni How to Become A More Confident You



Identify the thoughts that may be potentially causing this lack of confidence you are experiencing and work with them



Change your negative thoughts into positive ones by rationalizing how you are thinking



Do not compare yourself to others. Everyone is unique and great in their own way



Know that everyone has flaws and weaknesses and that it is okay. Do not let them hold you back and do not be harsh on yourself



Take pride in your strengths—not everyone can accomplish the things you can. Trust your capabilities



Set realistic goals for yourself and achieve them



Be around people that appreciate you and make you feel good about yourself



Look in the mirror and smile, you are wonderful!

The Facial Feedback Hypothesis According to scientific research, your brain actually pays attention to what your body is doing. Although controlling our emotions sometimes is difficult, the good news is it is quite easy to control our muscles. So how does FFH work? When our brain senses flexion in our facial muscles (typically the zygomatic major muscle) it tells our brain that we must have something to be happy about and as a result we actually become happier. Give it a go, get smiling!

Positive Ways to Make Use of Social Media 

Keep up-to-date and share news with loved ones that are abroad or you don’t see often



It’s a perfect platform to display your creative side and express your opinions about topics of interest



Discover recommendations for new activities, restaurants, books, travel destinations and much more to add some fun to your life



Follow educational groups and your favorite news reporters for your daily dose of updates on the world and knowledge



Spread your own knowledge and educate others in the area of your expertise. As Nelson Mandela once said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” 26

Hijabi Girls Shada Ayman Hafiz Fashion has become an essential part of our daily lives, ladies who wear Hijab have come up with brilliant fashion ideas to add elegance and chicness to their Hijab style! Ladies who rock their hijabs while overseas, are you looking for a classy yet comfy clothes to wear while enjoying a nice lunch in the afternoon? Are you bored with baggy clothes that don’t show off your true sense of style?! How about these lovely maxi dresses and fit jackets to have the entire world acknowledging your great sense of fashion, they’re also super comfortable and effortless!

Let’s say you’re attending this fabulous art gallery later in the evening, would baggy, plain clothes, be your choice? Big fat no! This peach toned plated skirt will draw all eyes to you the moment you step in, people would have trouble recognizing the real art! Add a black shirt and some accessories for a classic look, and keep in mind that you’re a walking piece of art! Pink, pink, pink! Floral pants have been huge last year, they’re even huger now! Enjoy a walk in the park with this simple and stylish look!

FASHION 27

A must have item for this spring to add a funky touch to your hijab fashion, choose Oxfords of your like! Whether they were floral, solid colored, cut outs or even both! Oxfords were the trend for 2014, and are ready to conquer the world for this year! Embrace this upcoming spring with this year’s trends and unleash your inner fashionista!

With Spring break being just around the corner, many families and individuals are planning on spending it overseas, and although winter is still upon us, spring is getting closer every day. It’s time for us to ditch those heavy winter clothes and embrace the colorful bright ones, be ready to hit the mall because once you finish reading this article, there’s no going back! For all you who are fans of shirts and office-like wear, shirtdresses are a must for this spring! This chic, yet comfy trend seems to be the people’s favorite pick! Combine your favorite shirtdress with an edgy cardigan and solid colored flats to get the elegant night look, or an off-white fit jacket and a scarf of your favorite color with matching boots for the daily one! The options are endless when it comes to our first trend for this spring.

Another trend that is sticking around for this spring, is the classy looking Kimono-style trench coats, Kimonos have become our favorite thing to wear and are inspired from the Japanese culture where Japanese 28

Spring With Style Shada Ayman Hafiz Japanese ladies tend to wear Kimonos in their traditional weddings along with tsunokakushi (wedding headpiece). Designers have decided that a classy element must be added to the Kimonos – that’s why we’re introduced to the Kimono-style trench coats! Throw a silky Kimono trench coat over your favorite dress, pair it with edgy looking high heels and viola! Hello comfy and stylish!

For those who aren’t fans of the all-white trend, have no fear. Black and blue are here for the rescue! Drop jaws with these formal-like, yet edgy looks!

LOOK FOR LESS Don’t we all love how fit and trendy those expensive clothes look on celebrities? No matter how casual the outfit is, it'll look good on them. We find in Effat many types of students. We find the nerds, the fashionistas, the geeks, and many other types. Some students would simply follow the trend. Yet many struggle with finding time to pick the right outfit of the day, and many struggle with their budget. Celebrities might be able to afford great clothes that are worth thousands of dollars/riyals, but we can do it as well. With a little twist that I like to call, the look for less. I chose Miranda Kerr as an icon for this topic since she is one of the most popular and loved faces on the runway. I chose forever21.com so we can get as close as we can with Miranda's look, as well as keeping an eye in the budget. The first that grabs our attention is the snow like white blazer. We can find this open-front collarless blazer to pull Miranda's look. Underneath the blazer is a lovely boxy beaded & sequined top that is the same color as Miranda's top. As we can see that Miranda's jeans are light-colored. Instead we can wear a stone washed skinny jeans. In the picture Miranda is wearing heels, but since we walk a lot in Effat, why not glam up with a pair of wedges for comfort instead! We can see her wearing a leather bag, so why don’t we choose this zippered faux leather cross-body to keep our notes in. Miranda is wearing soft jewelries. To pull her jewels look is by wearing a sweet rose stud earrings, and a simple stud bracelet. We can add our final finishing by using this ravishing red crayon lip. This is how to get your look for less, just don’t tell the paparazzi where you're going! 29

GET THIS LOOK

Earring= 4 riyals; Jeans= 85; Rouge= 22; Wedges= 93; Bag= 85; Bracelet= 7; Top= 74; Blazer= 93; Total= 463 30

HEELS: TO WEAR OR NOT TO WEAR

Hadeel Milyani, Latifa Dosary, Amani AlBugami Us girls take high heels very seriously, no matter

“Wearing high heels can improve a woman's walk far better than how it already is.”

how painful it is to our feet or wallets, being influenced by the big screen and the ladies of Hollywood. Just like what the lovely Marlin Monroe once said, “Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world”. We have been led to

have recently proposed a novel evolutionary the-

believe that we are more appealing and attractive

ory about why women favor high heels. They

by styling our feet with the latest and highest pumps that we can find. High-heeled shoes are a

found that wearing high heels can improve a

girl’s best friend. And the higher the heel, the

woman's walk far better than how it already is.

better it is. Though shockingly enough, some ce-

Another recent study by the same group was

lebrities such as Angelina Jolie, have expressed

made with the title "How wearing high heels can

guilt and concern over encouraging such risky be-

affect Female Attractiveness", did a comparison

havior. High heels in fact do affect us in a multi-

between a woman walking in high heels and a

tude of ways, financially, psychologically and

women walking in flat shoes, both men and women, who were observing them said that, the wom-

physically. Even though we know that high heels capture attention and are considered a strong

en who are walking in heels are more attractive.

fashion statement, wearing them however, is not

These results have lead us to believe that the psy-

always a good thing.

chological and social effects of wearing heels are good, and the women wearing them result into

From a positive side, psychologists Paul Morris,

feeling attractive and satisfied with themselves,

Jenny White, Edward Morrison and Kayleigh Fish-

they also become easily accepted by others.

er from the University of Portsmouth, in the UK, 31

On a different note, a survey re-

style' shoes for nights out. They

cramping and the feeling of

veals that 60% of girls said they

also have two pairs of work

weakness. (Women’s health In-

are willing to bear with the pain-

shoes and another two or so

stitute, n.d.) Over use of heels

ful shoes just for the sake of

'random' purchases.

can actually lead to permanent

fashion (Lester, T. (2010, June

Health-wise, wearing heels can

anatomical changes to your

28).

be a terrible thing to do to your-

body by shortening your ankle

self. Not only does it cause you

and calf tendons to the point

Shoes In Her Lifetime! How

fatigue and pain. It also causes

where it becomes impossible for

About You? (Glamour). Keeping

drastic problems to your body

you to walk in flats! (Beil, 2013)

The

Spends

Average

Almost

Woman

$25,000

in mind, some high heels have

and can lead to serious condi-

All in all, wearing heels have a

price tags that are sky-high. But

tions. Wearing heels too often

few positive impacts and a lot

how much exactly do those girls

can cause a lot of back, knee and

more negative ones. Perhaps

spend on high heels? DailyEx-

foot damage. This happens by

you should take a moment and

press (2010, June 28) points out

the irregular amount of stress

rethink your daily choice of

a survey that shows that the av-

your body has to take due to the

shoes. Don’t stop wearing them

erage woman will buy 469 pairs

shift in weight and pressure your

if they’re your obsession but try

of shoes in her lifetime with an

knees and spin have to suddenly

to minimize the number of times

take.

overall

price

tag

about

You can get conditions

that you do. After all, you don’t

£16,410. Also, the survey of

such as Spondylolisthesis, which

really need heels to make you

3,000 girls by Gocompare.com

is “the slipping of ones vertebra

beautiful regardless of what oth-

shows that the average girl has

over

er people say.

about 19 pairs of shoes - three

health Institute, n.d.) and Sci-

pairs with heels, six pairs of flip-

atia, which involves feeling a lot

flops and sandals, three pairs

of shooting pains, numbness,

the

other”

of boots and four pairs of 'foxy-

(Women’s

My Experience Across Cultures Carla Jackson

Personal Stories

The first time I met someone from the Middle East I must admit I was more than a little bit nervous. I really never thought I would ever be married to someone from there and living in the region myself! Since September 11 th, my country automatically feared anyone from this part of the world. Media and inflammatory feelings about Muslims made our public feel that anyone from the Middle East was dangerous or a potential threat. Therefore, meeting a person from Egypt, who was of course a Muslim, was never something I thought I would be experiencing. Getting to know a person from another culture, one so different than mine, I thought, hasn’t always been an easy process. I struggle with not being able to drive myself around. I don’t understand why shopping is an activity that is frequently done. Strangely enough, covering myself with an abaya and hijab didn’t bother me. Many of my friends and family in the West thought this was such a horrible injustice to me as a woman. They felt that it was “controlling” and taking away my freedom to choose. I think if they saw the variety of abayas and hijabs there are to “choose” from, they would be very surprised. Individuality is present here, just not in a Kim Kardashian “everyone stare at me” way. I am very proud to say that I think individuality is expressed in a sophisticated and lady like manner here. As time passed by, my fears lessoned as my knowledge of this region of the world increased. I learned that the Gulf area is full of regular families. Fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, uncles and aunts, children…..All doing their best to make the most of what life has to offer them. Fundamentally, this area of the world is not so different than the West. My parents worked hard every day to give me a better life. That also happens here. They taught me the difference between right and wrong. That is also taught here. My family loves me unconditionally and would do anything to help me succeed in my life. Those things happen here too, all the time. I fought with my sisters when I was a child. I have seen siblings fighting here too. I ate pizza, chicken and spent time with my friends as a youngster. Pizza hut, KFC and even Baskin Robbins are available here. Marrying a Muslim and coming to the Middle East was something I never dreamed would happen to me. In my Western way of thinking, I thought that the only way and the best way was the Western way. What has been taught to me in the kindest way possible, here where I thought was the most violent place, is that there is another way that is just as good. At the end of the day, we all go to sleep and dream of tomorrow. We are all human. 33

A New Birth Maha AlGhaith Thank you! Thank you for everyone who made me feels ashamed or gave me that nasty horrible look.

A big special

thank goes to those companies who did not offer the size "XL" in their attire lines. An applause goes

mirrors

that

showed me the ugly truth each time I stand in front of it. I'm grateful for everything and everybody who made me realize my setbacks. And especially to my outstanding Doctor, who played a big role in changing my life. One big Mac chicken with extra cheese, large coke and large French fries, Ice-cream for dessert. All of that was more than enough to cheer me up for the rest of my day. Indeed, I used to eat massive quantities of fast food. In fact, I feel guilty the minute I finish eating. My biggest dilemma was when I had to buy a dress for any upcoming occasion. As a matter of fact, a trip to the mall was more like an errand to me. Taking a picture is supposedly a happy moment that anyone can relate to but not for me. For me, it was more like a sad and uncomfortable moment. I used to hate my body, I could not bear to look at myself in the mirror. Conversely, I could not stand going through any diet. I could not stand having a healthy life style either. I could feel my self esteem drop day by day. With all these surgical equipment surrounding me. The odor of the Anesthesiologist filled the operating room. To this day, I still remember the strong scent of his perfume. I cannot forget his gentle touch on my hand to search for one clear vein. He was good looking I have to say! To me he was not only a Doctor, he was also my savor. I was crying out of fear and excitement in the same time. I was also embarrassed because I had to wear a hospital gown, which unfortunately was open from the back. Hallucinating for three hours under the effect of the anesthetic, I could not believe I finally went through my operation! I was brave enough to take the risk and do the surgery. It might seem that I only went through a gastric weight loss surgery, but in fact I also omitted the pain from my life. I was reborn. A new life is now waiting for me. No more guilty feelings for me. No more tears. No more dissepiments. No more 'XL' attires in the closet. Now I can feel happy whenever a picture is taken of me. Now I can Smile. Maha is now a person who loves her body and is proud of herself. Maha now is a confident person. 34

[A New Birth cont..] I did what makes me feel good for the rest of my life. I do not care what people say about my procedure because I’m sure not many of them were food deprived. That moment where you struggle not to eat a big delicious and juicy beef burger or a creamy dewy shining cheesecake with red cherries on top is the worst. It takes a hero to overcome it. It is very easy for people to talk about diets and ways to lose weight. Not many people understand how overweight people feel like. Now, I decided to speak my mind and speak on behalf of every overweight person and I do encourage them to do the same as well. Yes we have the right to live normally without getting tired from taking the sitars or riding a bicycle. We have the right to live a healthy life style and be slim. No matter how difficult and arduous it may seem to be, I can now say it is possible.

My Parenting Experience Nbada Sibanda

I am cognizant of the fact that my behavior serves as a model for my children’s behavior. Parenting can make or unmake a child`s future. Parenting skills and styles differ from one parent to another, mainly because of environmental, religious, social and cultural factors that are at play. What is a taboo in one family, environment or culture could be something acceptable and proper in another family or social group. However, what is clear and central is that proper parenting inspires children to reach their potential, cultivates respect and love within and for the family. If one`s parenting styles are not synonymous with the bringing forth and maintenance of order, direction and respect, then that can only mean one thing-a recipe for disaster.

clothing, education and guidance for them at all costs. I am also obliged to inspire, protect and promote them. That way they get to experience a parent`s love, care and warmth in action. Do words of advice (alone) suffice? I do not think so. Parenting is an active process both in word and in practice. Rather than sit and sound like a phony claimant or a posturing politician, do it. Practice what you preach. Some parents (especially fathers!) claim they love their family members yet there is nothing to show for such claims or declarations. That is not enough. In fact, that is teaching them to be “dishonest” and when it backfires on one, then one has no-one else to blame but their “lessons on deceit”! By the way, they can even perfect that game and graduate into incorrigible “tsotsis” or crooks or smart liars!

Parenting has enhanced my writing. Indeed, parenthood and family affect and inform my work because as a parent my family is my first constituency or priority. If the family is going to look up to me, then l should not abdicate my core duties and responsibilities of keeping the “family ship” afloat. In other words, it is only logical and natural that l provide the basic necessities, like food,

For me, parenting, means providing them with the relevant information and advice as they go through their developmental stages and offering advice in a learning-friendly home environment, as l help them with their assignments and other ways of enhancing their learning at school. In as much as l commit my time to writing, l also 35

devote quality time to be with them. It is a blessing to listen to their stories and experiences. I set aside time on a regular basis to do something exciting or motivating for and with them. I share with them what l am working on as a writer, so that they support me, rather than get the idea that l am aloof, “strange” and not interested in their dreams, lives and activities. I reward desirable behavior as much as possible by verbal praise, touching something tangible such as a doll, food or money. We are all team-players in this. It is dangerous for a parent to form a “weak link”. We have to play our different roles with distinction and dignity.

trust is earned, and to this end, changing goalposts now and then is a certain ticket to losing one`s credibility as an authority. Once that happens, then one`s parenting becomes an unenviable, hollow and weightless nightmare. Some parents have their chosen “favorite” children, their “delicate eggs” who are not and should not “be touched” or sent on errands. In such families the parents` treatment of their offspring or their response to their own biological children` needs and situations smacks of disturbing and undesirable favoritism. At the end, the affected child feels so isolated, unloved and insignificant that he or she loses respect for the parent. He or she feels he or she does not belong here, and his or her parents are not here either by virtue of imagined and real alienation. Eventually, he or she resigns himself or herself to fate, and becomes law-unto himself or herself. This partisan syndrome fuels rebellion, sibling rivalry, endless parent-child rancor, and at worst, suicidal, defeatist and violent tendencies.

I show respect and love for their mother and always make it a point that both of us have an equal share in the responsibility of discipline as much as possible. If their mother is disciplining a child and I enter the room, it is prudent not step in on the argument in progress. We always strive to agree on what behavior is desirable and not desirable, and agree on how to respond to undesirable behavior. I make it as clear as possible what my child is to expect if he or she performs the undesirable behavior. Consistence is a key factor, for without it one should not be shuddered if a child tells one to get their act together and observe some fair play! Remember children see, think and discern. Again, call to mind that

I make it very clear what the undesirable behavior is. It is not enough to say, “Your room is unclean.” I specify “unclean” in terms of exactly what is meant: “You’ve left the floor unclean, your shoes are dirty, and your bed is not made.” I look for gradual changes in behavior. I praise behavior that is coming closer to the desired goal.

Ndaba Sibanda is a Zimbabwean born writer. He hails from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe`s second largest city. He once taught at Taif University. In 2005 he authored an epic, Love O’clock. He has since contributed to fifteen published books including international anthologies such as Poems For Haiti, Voices Of Peace, Black Communion, Ripples of Love, and 52 Loves (2015) and Crossing Lines Anthology (2015).

Ruba K. Hakem

Why is body weight the determiner of our happi-

months. I could finally sleep without counting cal-

ness and acceptance socially and mentally? Why

ories for the next day, and I had found something

can’t we see that the concept itself is weighting

to wake up for. I began to play. Yes, it was a word

us down to hit rock bottom? I am one of the vic-

that I had to re-learn like a person with a memory

tims who had an eating disorder. I’d been

loss. In all fairness, more than anything else the

through the battle for 10 months before my road

person who actually stood by me the whole time

to recovery began. 4 years later, the scars are still

was my mother.

strong and vibrant with pain. My mere ten

She is the one who pulled me from this hell with

months seem small compared to others who are

her constant support. She suffered along with me

trapped for years with an eating disorder. It has

in silence and stayed strong for me. She is my

become extremely urgent for us to accept this

Guardian Angel. Therefore, once you realize that

reality and treat it with understanding and care.

there is a person who is holding your hand and

Looking back at my journey, I realize it was not

suffering with you, everything will be OK. You

worth it. The pain I was putting myself through

have your angel on earth who will heal your

was not worth it. I was too thin to walk, I lost my

wounds with a touch. It will be hard to let go of

appetite along with my happiness. I became ob-

these habits, but humans are blessed with the

sessed with the scale, slept with weight lesser

power of forgetting.

than the one I’d woken up with. This was sup-

Remember you are not alone and don’t let your

posed to make me happy, yet I suffered with de-

insecurities turn into a disorder. There is no per-

pression, and above all, I was NEVER SATESFIED

fect body, because god created us with the best

with my body or my life. The worst thing was that

form we could ever be. Perfection is over rated, it

I did not know how to stop even when I was los-

does not exist. As The Hawk in Paris wrote in a

ing the light in my soul.

song “If you want to rule the world you’ve got to

It all began to change when one day my sister

stop pretending”. Therefore, be YOU and only

came to visit from America with her 5 month old

YOU. Your imperfection is what making you stand

daughter. I got distracted for the first time in 10

out in the dark like a glowing STAR. 37



How to Fight an Eating Disorder?

  



Get to know different kinds of disorders and why they happen. The information is all available online. Learn about why the eating disorder develops and try to minimize the habits that might have caused it. Remember that you are not alone. There are others like you and none of you deserve to be unhappy. Pay attention to your body and how you feel. If you're losing weight, then why are you not happy? If being skinny means having the perfect body, then why does your body feel weak and unhealthy? Share your worries, your thoughts and your struggle with someone who you love and trust.

EMBODYING THE EFFAT AMBASSADOR Roya Hassan AbdulAal

When I first joined Effat, I used to be very shy and insecure, but after being a member of the Effat family, I became an outgoing, outspoken and motivated person. 38

called Just English. I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have done any of that without the unlimited support I received from my Department Chair and professors. After this wonderful journey at Effat, I graduated with Excellent Grade and First Honor. Shortly after graduation, I went for an interview at Batterjee Medical College, where I'm currently working. I got the job and joined the College's English Department as an English and Medical Terminology Instructor. I was later on assigned another task as I was appointed to be the Department's Coordinator and the College's official translator handling confidential documents, legal contracts and the college's website. I was exThroughout my undergraduate years of study, I

tremely influenced by everything I learned at

was an active student; I maintained a high GPA in

Effat and did my very best to represent it. Being

all semesters which entitled me to be nominated

an Effat graduate, to me, is like being a well-

for the Queen Effat Citizenship Award several

mannered and classy princess coming from a roy-

times and I was on the Dean's list until graduation

al family.

year. I was also very interested in extracurricular I must say that work experience did a lot for me

activities. Thus, I joined clubs, many in several

but

activities, and volunteered in numerous major

never

satisfied

eagerness

for

knowledge. Unfortunately, I could not pursue my

events organized in-campus and off-campus. Fur-

higher education because opportunities here in

thermore, I created the Effat's Poetry Club and

Jeddah are very limited. Thus, I was extremely

had the honor and pleasure of leading it. It was

thrilled when Effat announced opening the Mas-

an amazing chance to transfer my passion into a

terâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Program in Translation Studies. Now here I

solid manifestation of poetic beauty and sophisti-

am, finding myself applying for my Master de-

cated words. While at Effat, I published my very

gree, to re-join Effat and start another wonderful

first poem, titled "The Wrestler" in a magazine

and fruitful journey.

TRAVEL A Hiker’s Tale

The Ice Caves Razann Morssal Location: Big Four Ice Caves, Granite Falls, WA Every summer vacation when we visit my Mothers family in the US we usually do the same thing. But last time I was there, which was the summer of 2013, we decided to do something different and go hiking. Washington State is a beautiful green part of the country, and hence it is also known as the Evergreen State. It is the perfect place for hiking and camping. As a first timer, and someone who isn’t really big on nature, I didn’t know what to expect. When we got to where the mountain is, I was blown away by the sight and beauty in front of me. There was a hiking trail that led to where the ice-caves were. On the way to the ice-caves, tall, beautiful trees surround you, and you pass by a crystal clear river with rocks in all shades of brown. You can hear the birds chirping and singing, the leaves swaying with the wind. You look up, and see the bluest sky you can imagine, with patches of white, or greyish white clouds. And when I thought it couldn’t get anymore breathtaking, we reached the ice-caves. The view was captivating, mind blowing. The beauty of the caves, the giant mountains before you, the sky, the trees, it was all so overwhelming and in the best way possible. I was swarmed with emotions. I have never seen a sight so beautiful in my life. It was so relaxing, so soothing, and inspiring even, to witness such beauty. You learn to appreciate the art that is God’s creation. I didn’t want to leave. The feelings I had during that time can’t be put into words. It was the most amazing experience of my life. And to share it with the people closest to my heart made it even better.

Halima Bensaid

FIVE PLACES I WOULD VISIT AGAIN Sometimes it strikes me quite ridiculous how I've been to so many places in the short span of my life. The memories of some places, are bright and stark, as though they yearn to tumble into reality and happen again. There are places in the world that given the chance, I am sure anyone would fall in love with just as Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d fallen before. Banff, Canada

Pangkor Island, Malaysia

In the Western Canadian wilderness, the Rocky Mountains become the masters of the land, looming above you intimidatingly with their sharp slate grey peaks and evergreen coats. In their hidden valleys however, true beauty lies in crystal clear aqua lakes, hooting wildlife and maple trees that make the valley seem on fire in the autumn when the leaves turn a hundred shades of orange and red. With the tranquil natural beauty and comfortable chill of these mountains, I have fallen in love.

Whenever I dream of a getaway from the hustle, bustle and stress of ordinary life, this place always comes to mind. Lazy days spent sprawled over warm sand listening to the gentle waves lapping the shore, watching the sun set in all its silent explosion of colors, snorkeling under clear water with schools of multihued fish, and clambering over rocks under the shade of mangrove trees filled with hooting monkeys. Simple life and restful days is what this place means to me.

Mostaganem, Algeria

Jmila Roman ruins, Algeria

On the shores of this small coastal city where the

Imagine yourself in walking the still paved streets

tangy ocean breeze sweeps cold wet fog in and

of a city long dead. Great arches and pillars line

out of the city streets numerous times a day, you

your paths towards what had once been impres-

can find a dream. The softest warm white sand

sive buildings long abandoned to the rolling hills

coupled with clear clean surf-worthy waves and a

and mountains around. Cuicil had once been the

cutting sea wind that you can’t breathe enough

greatest mountainous Berber-Roman city in

of. If I close my eyes and take myself back, I can

North Africa. When you come away, you don’t

still feel the salty blue waves rocking me back and

only remember the lonely arches overgrown with

forth, trapping me in its warm embrace that I re-

wild mountain flowers, but the impressions of the

fuse to leave to not meet the biting wind above

lords, ladies and warriors that had once made

the water.

shadows on its walls. Madinah al- Munawwarah, KSA They say that in the sweet air of Madinah you can breathe peace. I believe that. The days spent mindlessly

walking

through

the

prophet’s

mosque, praying, laughing, thinking and peoplewatching has convinced me of that. Nowhere else in the world can on find such masses of people with such diversity, such difference, yet all so unified. Nowhere else on earth will you be able to feel so at home while so far away.

MUSIC Zehra Ali

Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys featured in picture

“After silence that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.” –Aldous Huxley

Song Dead Inside

11 Dimension

Artist

Muse

Julian Casablancas

Album

Album Art

Quote

Drones

Revere a million prayers And draw me into your holiness. But there's nothing there. Light only shines from those who share.

Phrazes for the Young

You are looking for your own voice, but in others. While it hears you, trapped in another dimension 44

Song Love is a Laserquest

Fever

Artist Arctic Monkeys

The Black Keys

Album

Album Art

Quote

Suck It and See

I've tried to ask you this in some daydreams that I've had But you're always busy being make believe

Turn Blue

Fever, can you hear me? You shook me like I've never been. Now show me how to live again. The diamond cuts her eye The crowd behind went wild They weren't all that proud By now they hear it loud

Games

The Road

The Strokes

Hurts

Angles

Living in an empty world Living in an empty world

The diamonds sparkle in your face, I hold you. The gravel glistens black and red below.

Exile

Hollow, you drift into the night Hollow girl

Diane Young

Vampire Weekend

Modern Vampires of the City

Nobody knows what the future holds And it's bad enough just getting old Live my life in self-defense You know I love the past, 'cause I hate suspense

The 5th

David Garrett

Rock Symphonies

[Instrumental]

Sky scape Tell us a little about your photography work. I don’t put much thought into the process. If I see something that I like I just photograph it. I don’t think about the composition, the lighting or ‘colour balance’, etc. I just shoot what I see. But I could say I am addicted to cloud pictures because I think it’s kind of sad that if I don’t take a picture when the sky looks especially beautiful, I’ll never see it like that again. The clouds are always shifting and are never the same from any angle or perspective on any day. So I especially like capturing those pictures when I have the chance, which is usually on my long walks.

PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS Nicholas F K 46

BY THE HARBOUR

SEA AND CITY

CLOSE UP

LITERATURE

Student Musings

Poetry

Art

Art Review

Book Reviews

64 52

A Walk to Remember Lama Jamjoom

Smiles attack us when we close our eyes and remember this frozen moment. The moments stuck in our memories forever. Living them again seems very easy without any movements.

Noise and crowded streets with so many cars. No street lights and us trying to pass to the other side. Hand in hand, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hurry up, Let's go,â&#x20AC;? he says. We run to avoid dying. Laughter appears again to assure us we are alive. The world feels so crowded and busy right now. It feels like everyone is in this street with us.

After an amazing turkish breakfast, eggs with tomato and cups and cups of tea, we took a walk beside the dark navy sea. Super cold, heavy jackets, dark colors and the warmness of us being together. Closing my eyes seems so relaxing when I feel the breeze of the sea through my blood and towards my cheeks. Hugging the tea cup seems like heaven right now!

We are taken from a world to another world through a moment. Some make us cry, some make us laugh. But for sure we all have this safe box with all those moments locked and granted! There is a movie called life in us. Can't be written or told , but can only be lived. Just as the concept of a camera we can see our scenes just as it was with no editing and with every detail. How strange are we as humans? We keep forgetting things and remembering minor things. Our brain stores best moments so we can live by the hope of better ones.

A wooden bench calls us to squeeze ourselves on it. Echoes of laughter still remains inside of my head. The empty world with no one but us keeps me dreaming. A moment interrupts and moments mix together! 53

Reconstruction Nadine Hussain My dear building has been demolished in exchange for a renovation. The voice I used to hear, the shadow of my dear and the spot of my peers - they have destroyed all the stories and have left no more immortal memories to carry. The chairs are still reddish, red as though they are rooted deeply there. The view of the window becomes brighter and more beautiful, where the sun expands on the whole area, carrying ambitions and aims. My goals become closer and more visible and the roads become splendid and radiant. It is an unbearable mixture of feelings which I cannot tolerate. Even though theses changes bring optimism, the place is still meaningless and useless, it even criticizes itself. I cannot see you walking from one place to another anymore despite the transparency of those new windows. Faces fade away until they suddenly disappear at a glance. People become so materialistic for they do not notice the beauty of life, therefore life is full of ugliness and nothingness. The spacious yards faintly whisper, delivering the permanence and immortality of your voice. The limitations and barriers have been crumbled liberating many trapped truths, which have been stuck underneath the ground. The most important thing you have rooted deeply inside me is that I still have the strength to dream boundlessly, and enjoy living out those dreams. Life will lose its sweetness if we stop dreaming. According to me, living a dream is simply obstructed by inevitable truths, which means real happiness. You have taught me that dreaming is limitless for those ambitions that a human being cannot accomplish in their real life. I supersede many obstacles and tribulations by following this pattern. I had never envisaged this kind of loss before I lost you. Although many of my dreams have been lost racing the wind, hope still lives inside me, giving me the power to sacrifice and carry on. The eternity of your tried statement echoes widely in this place screaming out for me that I only need the courage to cross the oceans.

Dua’ Sa’ad Atti'a Thou who resides blithely inside mine heart, Art thou shelter'd? As f'r I hast from the start. I hast nev'r fac'd livid stints, As I gander at thou, Marble belov'd, I hast nev'r fester'd. From the juncture, I laid mine glances upon thou, I fathom'd betimes, Thou shall become, Mine marble belov'd. As much as bite thee by the ear, Oh, thou marble belov'd, I may not utter how copious I devotedly doth. Mine marble belov'd, If ev'r will thou decree to leave, I behest mine self to not fester, I behest mine self to not fret. I may perish, And fall into demise. Though, wherev'r I get, In perpetuity, In abyss I may reside, 'r on an apex, Thou shall everlastingly bide, Mine marble belov'd.

Dua’ Sa’ad Atti'a

Hear the melody, Immerse in merriment. Amidst the obscurity, Furthermore the continuous threnodies. Gleaming with luminous might, My songbird's prevailing sleight, Amidst the obscurity, Conveyed me, Amidst the obscurity, I reclined. In the midst of my abeyance, Amidst thee, abating me. My songbird's prevailing light, Conveyed me, To accompany her, To the nevermore thereafter. The nevermore hereafter, I may be. 55

WAR I have heard of a person being under a spell, a group of people, sometimes, but I have never heard of a whole world being under a spell. It is really hard for me to fathom how half of the world have the nerve to live while the other half dies. I have never heard of a catatonic nation. I have never heard of a world marketing dehumanization. It is like if we are under a mass hypnosis. They kill, we keep eating They torture, we keep dancing They deprive a child from his childhood, we cheer. They ban a mother from her motherhood, we just produce tears. Our ultimate consolation is "oh how poor they are" Sometimes we become excessively generous and write a song to their once upon a time existence. We never appreciate the livings and we commemorate the dead with silence. "when the violence causes silence we must be mistaken" Those bodies do not need your songs because your vile melodies won't revive them. Those homeless children do not need your gifts because they do not have parents to play with. You cannot give a child with torn off legs a pair of shoes and expect him to be merry ! And do not let me start with nations who feed corpses by sending them food. Do you know what is more moronic? Sending them money and blathering about it on the news. What a smart move! I am angry because I am helpless and all what I can do is to pray. I am angry because criminals roaming around us while innocents in jail. I am angry because hematic scenes are the mainstream. I am angry because nobody is interested. I am angry because nobody is angry, nobody is enraged. 56

I Wonder Jawaria Ali Khan Pushing through the crowds of people You hear the sounds but don’t listen Maybe you’re searching for that smile? Maybe for the eyes that glisten. Sleepless nights and countless thoughts While you stay all alone awake Thinking; did chances come your way? And how many did you take?

Snowflakes The stars above, they say so much

Meznan G. Bahri

And yet do they at all?

Like dew on a flower Under a sunny hour; More beauty, you gave me Though I had no chance to see.

We hear their stories every day They form, they rise, they fall. Part of a whole you may be

But feel, inside my soul Which people hardly control. Then shortly after--gone Yet I kept smiling, thereon.

And yet again you’re just one Singular species you may seem A person so undone. To think what’s possible out there

For I held these drops close As if they already froze. Memories, I call them Each forming into a gem.

What lies in store ahead Will I live up to all I seek? Or is what I seek gone and dead?

All locked in a treasure That I call 'Fleeting Pleasure'. Friendship works the same way Since none will forever stay.

Paradoxes, metaphors, Similes, and lies We live a life we know more so of Every day and night.

Whether death can take place Or when a fight is the case, Both leave the same bruise My friend, death is no excuse.

But pray I ask, just once again Is what we know a blunder? For we see, smell, hear, touch and feel But do we know; I wonder. 57

you watch as my mind plummets into the ground

In You, In Me

the surface you thought you knew refusing to touch you

Sumaiyya Naseem my body slips away where roots await every night

and darkness prevails

after

in ugly patterns of dead

city wind and ink

you and me

lie over my skin parts you once knew where light mistakes dust

Trust

with darkly drifting clouds above scorching heat moves

Muzaina Zuberi

like vermin under belts of brown

Broken trust hurts

you recognise my skin

Bursting into tears, lost feelings and memories sweat trickles down your cotton

Cursing myself for believing in stories

like a leaf falling to concrete

Bearing bad, feeling sad

prayers swirl and hurl at me

No one is here to cheer me up

and bounce

My heart is tearing up

at a wall of forever Broken trust hurts you gaze sadly

Standing alone on the coast

like a priest upon a deep grave

Thinking, losing life at what cost?

But Hope is a token by God

I never understand you

To cope with life

In you I see patterns of me

So I hope for the best

absently close

Oh God strengthen me to pass this test I don't remember you

Striving to be back in life

we are waiting to last

Trusting you was a mistake

another day

Still, repenting for this mistake

when I will be everything at once 58

Realistic Painter

Effatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Own

Realistic Isolation In Degas’ Painting

L'Absinthe by Edgar Degas, Oil on Canvas, 92 cm × 68 cm, Musée d'Orsay, Paris

Alyah Alfageh

Examining the colours, we see that it is furthermore adding to the bleakness of it. The dusky palette he used rather than bright or rich colours he employed in his other famous portraits. Such colours contributed to the realistic sense we have upon examining the painting. Unlike the opulent life style in former paintings, this painting reeks of realistic isolation. The angle we, the viewers, perceive them allow us to be observers. Degas attempted to convey the setting without imposing his opinion and so do we. We are observers primarily. L'Absinthe (French for “The Absinthe Drinker”), an impressionist painting by Edgar Degas, was negatively received in its debut and the subsequent years during which it was shown to the public. Some considered it simply grotesque. Others saw it as a challenge against what was back then the moral standard. How dare she, a lady, sit in a bar with a man and drink absinthe? Several decades later it is now part of the permanent collection of Musée d'Orsay. Yesterday’s garbage, today’s treasure. I truly adore this painting, how it conveys the woman’s and man’s emotions of lethargy and disconnectedness, while in a supposedly pleasing setting. Firstly, the woman is engulfed by her thoughts and is pondering ineloquently. Her still full glass and her pose, the position of her feet, all emphasize detachment from the setting and surroundings. Secondly, the man, unaffected by the woman next to him, seems to be observing his surroundings or, likewise, ponderous. 62

By Dr. Wadee Alhalabi, Assistant Professor Brian Tracy is a bestselling author of over 45 books and through his talks and speeches he addresses more than 250,000 people each year. I cannot imagine missing one of his books. He is the kind of author who builds a momentum in the readers' mind - a momentum to achieve high. Most of the topics he addresses or tries to solve are repeated and shared by a large crowd of people. Mr. Tracy has an interesting way of talking to audience and explaining the topic in a very down to earth way. Using examples, in his talks and writings, makes his words travel smoothly and swiftly to your inner mind. Eat that frog presents a very common problem to the readers. He is discussing the problem of procrastination. People tend to procrastinate doing things that they do not feel comfortable with. In a very interesting way, Brian presented the tasks or problems we might address as a frog. The ugly frog is not welcomed by people, and no one would like to eat. Well, Mr. Tracy suggested that if someone has to eat a frog, and if the frog has to be eaten, so why not you? Why are you not the one to eat it?! Eating a frog represents the attempt to solve a problem. Moreover, Brian is suggesting that if you have to eat a frog anyway, start with the largest one. Mr. Tracy wants to say, if you have to solve a problem or to embark on a quest, start with the most complicated one. You might be known in your organization as the frog eater! Or the problem solver. I found the book to be a very interesting and worth reading at least a couple of times. It is one of the rare books that sends a message along with the "How to...." recipe. The book/audio book is available on Amazon.com

Steven M. Kaseem Former table tennis champion and Olympian, Mathew Syed has written a book that anyone interested in excellence and mastery of anything should read. The book is divided in to three sections. The first discusses the amount of practice that is needed to become an expert at any complex task such as writing, playing music, sports, engineering, etcâ&#x20AC;Ś He postulates that no

one can achieve this status with anything less than 10,000 hours of practice. Even child prodigies whose skill is usually attributed to natural talent have already accumulated more hours of practice in their few years than most adults will in their entire lifetimes. The second section explores the nature of the practice that produces the prodigies, masters, and geniuses of this world, namely, purposeful prac64

tice. In other words, although doing the same activities in the same ways over and over again will not lead to achieving excellence, adopting a challenging training regimen of gradually increasing difficulty will do so, even if one has to fall down 100 times to be able to perform a new technique just once. The third section is dedicated to the people and environments that help to create the love of any activity that will lead a practitioner to perform the necessary amount and type of practice which leads to mastery, such as the man who was able to raise his three daughters to be worldclass chess grandmasters. This section is particularly relevant to those interested in childhood education and parenting strategies. In the final pages of the book, the author attempts to debunk some myths about race and performance by shedding light on some overlooked factors contributing to the success of certain people in certain areas such as the champion marathon runners from the mountains of Kenya and what makes them different from other inhabitants of their country, continent, and planet. The language of this book is easy to understand and the structure is clear and sensible. If you are interested in getting back in to the habit of reading, this book may be perfect for you.

By Alyah Alfageh In a post-apocalyptic grim world, covered with ashes, stripped away of colors, save the color gray, this fictional novel by Cormac McCarthy takes us to the road where a father and son walk, trying to find civilization at the end of it. Resources are scarce and cannibalism is on the rise. Survival was all that mattered. The author manages to portray each image of bleakness in this grim world to a point where the reader loses hope. The poetic language the author uses makes whole pages memorable. “Borrowed time and borrowed world and borrowed eyes with which to sorrow it,” wrote the author in one of the pages, a sentence powerful on its own and a book powerful as a whole to portray a dark and prospect less future through fictional characters, each more pessimistic than the one before. It is fictional, yet relatable. Humans, with their evil, destructiondriven nature, have not done much to make it impossible for such pessimistic forecast of the future to exist. Going back to our book, although it is short (287 pages in total), it manages to capture every detail of this world, sparing no paper in that process; the book is 287 pages long is because the author needed no more to send his message. It is no wonder that this book won the 2007 Pulitzer

Prize for Fiction. This book will sadden you; this book will make you shed tears. The author’s blue vision (an artist really) will be imprinted on your eyes for decades to come. I highly recommend reading this book and I highly recommend that we make sure it does not come to life.

“You forget what you want to remember, and you remember what you want to forget.” 65

I was first introduced to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie at the King Fahad International Airport in Jeddah, and the second time a few days later in an email from my professor. Over the course of the next few weeks, at various stalls and bookstores, I bought all of Adichie’s works of fiction.

Sumaiyya Naseem

Chimamanda Adichie’s debut novel Purple Hibiscus is the coming of age story of a young girl Kambili who is abused and controlled by her father to the extent that the laughter in her Aunt’s home feels strange to her. Her father, a religious hypocrite within the walls of his home, is a respected and loved man in the society due to his charitable nature. The basic context of the story is the turn that takes place in Kambili’s life due to political changes and the life changing results of this change. Kambili and her brother Jaja have to live with their Aunt and her children in Nsukka, a small University town, and get introduced to a life that is the opposite of their luxurious setting back home. In my opinion, it is the loving and independent nature of the new lifestyle that makes it easier for them to adjust without complaining since those two things are exactly what lacks at home. There is love in their house but not compassion, and that love is the forced kind, the kind that you have to learn. What I loved about the book was how easy it was to read despite being of a foreign culture, and although I have read many works by Chinua Achebe, I wasn’t completely exposed to the way of life and ethos of Nigeria. Adichie managed to familiarize me with the cultural nuances without making me feel like I was reading something unlike what I already knew or had experienced. I felt I was in the story with the characters, sharing the space of their homes and their lives – something that all book lovers appreciate. I always enjoy the use of code switching by writers, especially when the book represents a culture and language I do not understand or know very well. It helps me learn words of a foreign language and also to understand the culture through the sociolinguistic features. Code switching, for those who don’t know, is the rapid switch between two or more languages. In the case of Purple Hibiscus the languages are Standard English, Pidgin English and Igbo. Language in the novel represents the various facets of life, both public and private and how situations or certain emotions can trigger the use of one language over the other. For those who intend to read this book, I recommend you pay attention to Eugene’s character and his language usage. In post-colonial literature, a common theme is the sense of superiority that comes from being “modern” and abandoning the “old ways”. Through Eugene’s character I found the portrayal of the conflict between traditionalism and modernity. In pursuit of modernity, Eugene deprives his children of the wisdom, lessons and bond that their grandfather could have provided. The contrast is intermingled with the religious shift that took place in African societies due to the introduction of Christianity at the time of colonization. 66

The novel made me think about religion and how a particular race or culture can be perceived as being the superior subjects even though God is for everyone. Another aspect of religion that was beautifully portrayed is how even though a person might consider himself a follower of the “right” religion, he/she might not get the satisfaction and peace that the follower of a religion they condemn gets through his own practice. This goes to show that the practicalities of a religion must always be aided with sincerity, something Eugene lacks. What really surprised me, as a reader and a writer, is the artful direction with which Adichie sculpted her characters. It was not possible to point at a seemingly evil character and claim that they were completely evil, and vice versa. This reinforced my belief that it is wrong to demonize people and that there is also a reason behind what a person does or says, even if that reason is not enough to justify the act. I’m usually a bit apprehensive when it comes to reading books that portray physical abuse, especially on children, however Adichie’s storytelling ability didn’t make me want to hide in the covers and cry. Due to the nature of abuse and the abundant foreshadowing the story was a bit predictable yet crafted very well. I have to admit that I was a bit confused and disappointed about the story’s conclusion. I think such an ending requires discussion and speculation to rest our hearts. Other things that I would love to discuss are the symbols and the contrasts in the book and what they represent. The characters who really intrigued me are Jaja, Father Amadi and Eugene Achike. I think I’d love to understand them better so I can have my questions answered. Through reading Purple Hibiscus I’ve realized (as many times before) that women must always speak up for themselves and their children, that abusive acts always have repercussions which come to harm the abuser and the abused, and that religious oppression only works to a certain extent before people begin to question the very morals and principles that the oppression claims to be built upon. I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in culture and coming of age stories. Purple Hibiscus harbours many, many future possibilities for the characters. After I finished reading I spent a while wondering what would happen next in their lives. It would be great if younger readers approach this story, especially since not enough people read works by foreign writers. I am glad I have other works of Chimamanda Adichie to keep me company in the weeks to come.

An Uncomfortable Bed

One autumn I went to stay for the hunting season with some friends in a chateau in Picardy. My friends were fond of practical joking, as all my friends are. I do not care to know any other sort of people. When I arrived, they gave me a princely reception, which at once aroused distrust in my breast. We had some capital shooting. They embraced me, they cajoled me, as if they expected to have great fun at my expense. I said to myself: "Look out, old ferret! They have something in preparation for you." During the dinner, the mirth was excessive, far too great, in fact. I thought: "Here are people who take a double share of amusement, and apparently without reason. They must be looking out in their own minds for some good bit of fun. Assuredly I am to be the victim of the joke. Attention!" During the entire evening, everyone laughed in an exaggerated fashion. I smelled a practical joke in the air, as a dog smells game. But what was it? I was watchful, restless. I did not let a word or a meaning or a gesture escape me. Everyone seemed to me an object of suspicion, and I even looked distrustfully at the faces of the servants. The hour rang for going to bed, and the whole household came to escort me to my room. Why? They called to me: "Good night." I entered the apartment, shut the door, and remained standing, without moving a single step, holding the wax candle in my hand. I heard laughter and whispering in the corridor. Without doubt they were spying on me. I cast a glance around the walls, the furniture, the ceiling, the hangings, the floor. I saw nothing to justify suspicion. I heard persons moving about outside my door. I had no doubt they were looking through the keyhole. An idea came into my head: "My candle may suddenly go out, and leave me in darkness." Then I went across to the mantelpiece, and lighted all the wax candles that were on it. After that, I cast another glance around me without discovering anything. I advanced with short steps, carefully examining the apartment. Nothing. I inspected every article one after the other. Still nothing. I went over to the window. The shutters, large wooden shutters, were open. I shut them with great care, and then drew the curtains, enormous velvet curtains, and I placed a chair in front of them, so as to have nothing to fear from without. Then I cautiously sat down. The armchair was solid. I did not venture to get into the bed. However, time was flying; and I ended by coming to the conclusion that I was ridiculous. If they were spying on me, as I supposed, they must, while waiting for the success of the joke they had been preparing for me, have been laughing enormously at my terror. So I made up my mind to go to bed. But the bed was particularly suspicious-looking. I pulled at the curtains. They seemed to be secure. All the same, there was danger. I was going perhaps to receive a cold shower-bath from overhead, or perhaps, the moment I stretched myself out, to find myself sinking under the floor with my mattress. I searched in my memory for all the 69

practical jokes of which I ever had experience. And I did not want to be caught. Ah! certainly not! certainly not! Then I suddenly bethought myself of a precaution which I consider one of extreme efficacy: I caught hold of the side of the mattress gingerly, and very slowly drew it toward me. It came away, followed by the sheet and the rest of the bedclothes. I dragged all these objects into the very middle of the room, facing the entrance door. I made my bed over again as best I could at some distance from the suspected bedstead and the corner which had filled me with such anxiety. Then, I extinguished all the candles, and, groping my way, I slipped under the bedclothes. For at least another hour, I remained awake, starting at the slightest sound. Everything seemed quiet in the chateau. I fell asleep. I must have been in a deep sleep for a long time, but all of a sudden, I was awakened with a start by the fall of a heavy body tumbling right on top of my own body, and, at the same time, I received on my face, on my neck, and on my chest a burning liquid which made me utter a howl of pain. And a dreadful noise, as if a sideboard laden with plates and dishes had fallen down, penetrated my ears. I felt myself suffocating under the weight that was crushing me and preventing me from moving. I stretched out my hand to find out what was the nature of this object. I felt a face, a nose, and whiskers. Then with all my strength I launched out a blow over this face. But I immediately received a hail of cuffings which made me jump straight out of the soaked sheets, and rush in my nightshirt into the corridor, the door of which I found open. O stupor! it was broad daylight. The noise brought my friends hurrying into the apartment, and we found, sprawling over my improvised bed, the dismayed valet, who, while bringing me my morning cup of tea, had tripped over this obstacle in the middle of the floor, and fallen on his stomach, spilling, in spite of himself, my breakfast over my face. The precautions I had taken in closing the shutters and going to sleep in the middle of the room had only brought about the interlude I had been striving to avoid. Ah! how they all laughed that day!

The Blind Man How is it that the sunlight gives us such joy? Why does this radiance when it falls on the earth fill us with the joy of living? The whole sky is blue, the fields are green, the houses all white, and our enchanted eyes drink in those bright colors which bring delight to our souls. And then there springs up in our hearts a desire to dance, to run, to sing, a happy lightness of thought, a sort of enlarged tenderness; we feel a longing to embrace the sun. The blind, as they sit in the doorways, impassive in their eternal darkness, remain as calm as ever in the midst of this fresh gaiety, and, not understanding what is taking place around them, they continually check their dogs as they attempt to play. When, at the close of the day, they are returning home on the arm of a young brother or a little sister, if the child says: "It was a very fine day!" the other answers: "I could notice that it was fine. Loulou wouldn't keep quiet." I knew one of these men whose life was one of the most cruel martyrdoms that could possibly be conceived. 70

He was a peasant, the son of a Norman farmer. As long as his father and mother lived, he was more or less taken care of; he suffered little save from his horrible infirmity; but as soon as the old people were gone, an atrocious life of misery commenced for him. Dependent on a sister of his, everybody in the farmhouse treated him as a beggar who is eating the bread of strangers. At every meal the very food he swallowed was made a subject of reproach against him; he was called a drone, a clown, and although his brother-in-law had taken possession of his portion of the inheritance, he was helped grudgingly to soup, getting just enough to save him from starving. His face was very pale and his two big white eyes looked like wafers. He remained unmoved at all the insults hurled at him, so reserved that one could not tell whether he felt them. Moreover, he had never known any tenderness, his mother having always treated him unkindly and caring very little for him; for in country places useless persons are considered a nuisance, and the peasants would be glad to kill the infirm of their species, as poultry do. As soon as he finished his soup he went and sat outside the door in summer and in winter beside the fireside, and did not stir again all the evening. He made no gesture, no movement; only his eyelids, quivering from some nervous affection, fell down sometimes over his white, sightless orbs. Had he any intellect, any thinking faculty, any consciousness of his own existence? Nobody cared to inquire. For some years things went on in this fashion. But his incapacity for work as well as his impassiveness eventually exasperated his relatives, and he became a laughingstock, a sort of butt for merriment, a prey to the inborn ferocity, to the savage gaiety of the brutes who surrounded him. It is easy to imagine all the cruel practical jokes inspired by his blindness. And, in order to have some fun in return for feeding him, they now converted his meals into hours of pleasure for the neighbors and of punishment for the helpless creature himself. The peasants from the nearest houses came to this entertainment; it was talked about from door to door, and every day the kitchen of the farmhouse was full of people. Sometimes they placed before his plate, when he was beginning to eat his soup, some cat or dog. The animal instinctively perceived the man's infirmity, and, softly approaching, commenced eating noiselessly, lapping up the soup daintily; and, when they lapped the food rather noisily, rousing the poor fellow's attention, they would prudently scamper away to avoid the blow of the spoon directed at random by the blind man! Then the spectators ranged along the wall would burst out laughing, nudge each other and stamp their feet on the floor. And he, without ever uttering a word, would continue eating with his right hand, while stretching out his left to protect his plate. Another time they made him chew corks, bits of wood, leaves or even filth, which he was unable to distinguish. After this they got tired even of these practical jokes, and the brother-in-law, angry at having to support him always, struck him, cuffed him incessantly, laughing at his futile efforts to ward off or return the blows. Then came a new pleasureâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the pleasure of smacking his face. And the plough-men, the servant girls and even every passing vagabond were every moment giving him cuffs, which caused his eyelashes to twitch spasmodically. He did not know where to hide himself and remained with his arms always held out to guard against people coming too close to him. 71

At last he was forced to beg. He was placed somewhere on the high-road on market-days, and as soon as he heard the sound of footsteps or the rolling of a vehicle, he reached out his hat, stammering: "Charity, if you please!" But the peasant is not lavish, and for whole weeks he did not bring back a sou. Then he became the victim of furious, pitiless hatred. And this is how he died. One winter the ground was covered with snow, and it was freezing hard. His brother-in-law led him one morning a great distance along the high road in order that he might solicit alms. The blind man was left there all day; and when night came on, the brother-in-law told the people of his house that he could find no trace of the mendicant. Then he added: "Pooh! best not bother about him! He was cold and got someone to take him away. Never fear! he's not lost. He'll turn up soon enough tomorrow to eat the soup." Next day he did not come back. After long hours of waiting, stiffened with the cold, feeling that he was dying, the blind man began to walk. Being unable to find his way along the road, owing to its thick coating of ice, he went on at random, falling into ditches, getting up again, without uttering a sound, his sole object being to find some house where he could take shelter. But, by degrees, the descending snow made a numbness steal over him, and his feeble limbs being incapable of carrying him farther, he sat down in the middle of an open field. He did not get up again. The white flakes which fell continuously buried him, so that his body, quite stiff and stark, disappeared under the incessant accumulation of their rapidly thickening mass, and nothing was left to indicate the place where he lay. His relatives made a pretence of inquiring about him and searching for him for about a week. They even made a show of weeping. The winter was severe, and the thaw did not set in quickly. Now, one Sunday, on their way to mass, the farmers noticed a great flight of crows, who were whirling incessantly above the open field, and then descending like a shower of black rain at the same spot, ever going and coming. The following week these gloomy birds were still there. There was a crowd of them up in the air, as if they had gathered from all corners of the horizon, and they swooped down with a great cawing into the shining snow, which they covered like black patches, and in which they kept pecking obstinately. A young fellow went to see what they were doing and discovered the body of the blind man, already half devoured, mangled. His wan eyes had disappeared, pecked out by the long, voracious beaks. And I can never feel the glad radiance of sunlit days without sadly remembering and pondering over the fate of the beggar who was such an outcast in life that his horrible death was a relief to all who had known him. 72

The Man with the Pale Eyes Monsieur Pierre AgĂŠnor De Vargnes, the Examining Magistrate, was the exact opposite of a practical joker. He was dignity, staidness, correctness personified. As a sedate man, he was quite incapable of being guilty, even in his dreams, of anything resembling a practical joke, however remotely. I know nobody to whom he could be compared, unless it be the present president of the French Republic. I think it is useless to carry the analogy any further, and having said thus much, it will be easily understood that a cold shiver passed through me when Monsieur Pierre AgĂŠnor de Vargnes did me the honor of sending a lady to await on me. At about eight o'clock, one morning last winter, as he was leaving the house to go to the Palais de Justice, his footman handed him a card, on which was printed:

DOCTOR JAMES FERDINAND, Member of the Academy of Medicine, Port-au-Prince, Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. At the bottom of the card there was written in pencil: From Lady FrogĂ¨re. Monsieur de Vargnes knew the lady very well, who was a very agreeable Creole from Hayti, and whom he had met in many drawing-rooms, and, on the other hand, though the doctor's name did not awaken any recollections in him, his quality and titles alone required that he should grant him an interview, however short it might be. Therefore, although he was in a hurry to get out, Monsieur de Vargnes told the footman to show in his early visitor, but to tell him beforehand that his master was much pressed for time, as he had to go to the Law Courts. When the doctor came in, in spite of his usual imperturbability, he could not restrain a movement of surprise, for the doctor presented that strange anomaly of being a negro of the purest, blackest type, with the eyes of a white man, of a man from the North, pale, cold, clear, blue eyes, and his surprise increased, when, after a few words of excuse for his untimely visit, he added, with an enigmatical smile: "My eyes surprise you, do they not? I was sure that they would, and, to tell you the truth, I came here in order that you might look at them well, and never forget them." 73

His smile, and his words, even more than his smile, seemed to be those of a madman. He spoke very softly, with that childish, lisping voice, which is peculiar to negroes, and his mysterious, almost menacing words, consequently, sounded all the more as if they were uttered at random by a man bereft of his reason. But his looks, the looks of those pale, cold, clear, blue eyes, were certainly not those of a madman. They clearly expressed menace, yes, menace, as well as irony, and, above all, implacable ferocity, and their glance was like a flash of lightning, which one could never forget. And this impression was so strong, that Monsieur de Vargnes thought that he was the sport of some hallucination, especially as when he spoke about his eyes, the doctor continued with a smile, and in his most childish accents: "Of course, Monsieur, you cannot understand what I am saying to you, and I must beg your pardon for it. To-morrow you will receive a letter which will explain it all to you, but, first of all, it was necessary that I should let you have a good, a careful look at my eyes, my eyes, which are myself, my only and true self, as you will see." With these words, and with a polite bow, the doctor went out, leaving Monsieur de Vargnes extremely surprised, and a prey to this doubt, as he said to himself: "Is he merely a madman? The fierce expression, and the criminal depths of his looks are perhaps caused merely by the extraordinary contrast between his fierce looks and his pale eyes." And absorbed in these thoughts, Monsieur de Vargnes unfortunately allowed several minutes to elapse, and then he thought to himself suddenly: "No, I am not the sport of any hallucination, and this is no case of an optical phenomenon. This man is evidently some terrible criminal, and I have altogether failed in my duty in not arresting him myself at once, illegally, even at the risk of my life." The judge ran downstairs in pursuit of the doctor, but it was too late; he had disappeared. In the afternoon, he called on Madame FrogĂ¨re, to ask her whether she could tell him anything about the matter. She, however, did not know the negro doctor in the least, and was even able to assure him that he was a fictitious personage, for, as she was well acquainted with the upper classes in Hayti, she knew that the Academy of Medicine at Port-au-Prince had no doctor of that name among its members. As Monsieur de Vargnes persisted, and gave descriptions of the doctor, especially mentioning his extraordinary eyes, Madame FrogĂ¨re began to laugh, and said: "You have certainly had to do with a hoaxer, my dear monsieur. The eyes which you have described are certainly those of a white man, and the individual must have been painted." On thinking it over, Monsieur de Vargnes remembered that the doctor had nothing of the negro about him, but his black skin, his woolly hair and beard, and his way of speaking, which was easily imitated, but nothing of the negro, not even the characteristic, undulating walk. Perhaps, after all, he was only a practical joker, and during the whole day, Monsieur de Vargnes took refuge in that view, which rather wounded his dignity as a man of consequence, but which appeased his scruples as a magistrate. The next day, he received the promised letter, which was written, as well as addressed, in letters cut out of the newspapers. It was as follows: "MONSIEUR: Doctor James Ferdinand does not exist, but the man whose eyes you saw does, and you will certainly recognize his eyes. This man has committed two crimes, for which he does not feel any remorse, but, as he is a psychologist, he is afraid of some day yielding to the irresistible temptation of confessing his crimes. You know better than anyone (and that is your most powerful aid), with what imperious force criminals, especially intellectual ones, feel this temptation. That great Poet, Edgar Poe, has written masterpieces on this subject, which express the truth exactly, but he has omitted to mention the last phenomenon, which I will tell you. Yes, I, a criminal, feel a terrible wish for somebody to know of my crimes, and when this requirement is satisfied, my secret has been revealed to a confidant, I shall be tran74

quil for the future, and be freed from this demon of perversity, which only tempts us once. Well! Now that is accomplished. You shall have my secret; from the day that you recognize me by my eyes, you will try and find out what I am guilty of, and how I was guilty, and you will discover it, being a master of your profession, which, by the by, has procured you the honor of having been chosen by me to bear the weight of this secret, which now is shared by us, and by us two alone. I say, advisedly, by us two alone. You could not, as a matter of fact, prove the reality of this secret to anyone, unless I were to confess it, and I defy you to obtain my public confession, as I have confessed it to you, and without danger to myself." Three months later, Monsieur de Vargnes met Monsieur X—— at an evening party, and at first sight, and without the slightest hesitation, he recognized in him those very pale, very cold, and very clear blue eyes, eyes which it was impossible to forget. The man himself remained perfectly impassive, so that Monsieur de Vargnes was forced to say to himself: "Probably I am the sport of an hallucination at this moment, or else there are two pairs of eyes that are perfectly similar in the world. And what eyes! Can it be possible?" The magistrate instituted inquiries into his life, and he discovered this, which removed all his doubts. Five years previously, Monsieur X—— had been a very poor, but very brilliant medical student, who, although he never took his doctor's degree, had already made himself remarkable by his microbiological researches. A young and very rich widow had fallen in love with him and married him. She had one child by her first marriage, and in the space of six months, first the child and then the mother died of typhoid fever, and thus Monsieur X—— had inherited a large fortune, in due form, and without any possible dispute. Everybody said that he had attended to the two patients with the utmost devotion. Now, were these two deaths the two crimes mentioned in his letter? But then, Monsieur X—— must have poisoned his two victims with the microbes of typhoid fever, which he had skillfully cultivated in them, so as to make the disease incurable, even by the most devoted care and attention. Why not? "Do you believe it?" I asked Monsieur de Vargnes. "Absolutely," he replied. "And the most terrible thing about it is, that the villain is right when he defies me to force him to confess his crime publicly, for I see no means of obtaining a confession, none whatever. For a moment, I thought of magnetism, but who could magnetize that man with those pale, cold, bright eyes? With such eyes, he would force the magnetizer to denounce himself as the culprit." And then he said, with a deep sigh: "Ah! Formerly there was something good about justice!" And when he saw my inquiring looks, he added in a firm and perfectly convinced voice: "Formerly, justice had torture at its command." "Upon my word," I replied, with all an author's unconscious and simple egotism, "it is quite certain that without the torture, this strange tale will have no conclusion, and that is very unfortunate, as far as regards the story I intended to make out of it."