To be or not to be?? December 30, 2008
Posted by Damon Taylor in Uncategorized.Tags: family, love, marriage, Relationships, wedding
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Weddings: To be or not to be ??
Making the decision to marry is not always an easy task. Marriage brings not only responsibility and commitment, but also extensions to our families. As individuals, we often bring our values, beliefs and morals into our relationships, most of which have been formulated and developed by our own experiences within our immediate families. Many of us also bring various traditions and customs into our new relationships, some of which are re-developed or re-modeled to cater for our current situation and our relationship.
As we grow and develop, many of us develop our own concept of marriage. Some of us may hold traditional and religious ideologies and others may have or more contemporary or liberal concept of marriage. Whatever our beliefs or perceptions, it is important that our partner possess values or ideologies similar to that of our own. Marriage entails partnership, which ultimately results in a shared understanding and common goals. Couples who hold different values, morals or beliefs often encounter extreme difficulties when it comes to important decision making, especially if they hold high regard for their beliefs and refuse to compromise. It’s easy to see why. Our partner also bring their own value sets, traditions and beliefs into the relationship, most of which also constructed by their own experiences within their own families. In essence most families are very different, thus, entering a relationship with someone entails accepting some of the differences and compromising on others.
Extreme differences however often lead to disputes and in extreme cases, relationship break downs. There are numerous factors that contribute to some of the issues that we often find in our relationships. Firstly, when we first enter relationships, we are often ignorant to the idiosyncrasies that our partners may possess. Love, becomes literally blind. In the first few months, we often turn a blind eye to the differences that we may have within our own value sets, beliefs and morals. We convince ourselves that they are only minor issues, and will not have long term effects throughout the course of the relationship.
Secondly, many us of believe that we have the capacity to change our partners, to mold them into being the person we want them to be. This belief primarily originates from our own egocentric beliefs, whereby we believe that the values, beliefs and morals we hold are correct, and our partners simply needs to develop similar values.
Thirdly, we fear the unknown. Sometimes after putting time and effort into a relationship, we are afraid to throw it all away and start again. Often, we take the easier option and remain in the relationship, hoping that it will get better with time. Many of us become co-dependent on our partners, and with time may have developed that comfort in which we all seek in relationships. Thus, we often brush away the knowledge that we hold subconsciously and simply continue with the relationship.
Relationships continually grow and evolve within our everyday experiences. Whilst our values, beliefs and morals create the foundation for our relationships, as coules, we need to ensure that the relationships we create remain fluid, thus allowing for healthy change to occur. Whilst managing relationships can be hard work, being with the person you love shouldn’t be hard. This means accepting the person you love for you they are. Sharing a common understanding, similar values and common goals towards the future is vital for the longevity of the relationship. Also, understanding that your partner, and you as an individual will never be perfect is important in the development of a successful relationship.
Relationships entails trusting one another, being able to rely on your partner and feeling comfortable. Strong foundations result in strong relationships. Strong foundations within relationships prevents cracks from appearing during cyclonic stages of the relationships, or life itself.
Successful relationships occur when honesty within ourselves and with our partners occur. Exploring issues together, and discussing our fears openly without fear of being judged allows us to open ourselves and learn about one another. Couples who do not fear difference, and who are honest within their relationships often find themselves in long lasting and harmonious relationships.
All About Diamonds October 28, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in Resources.Tags: family, jewellery, life, love, romance, tradition, wedding, wedding dress, weddings
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We all know that diamonds are a girls best friend, but what many of us don’t know is what actually 
constitutes a perfect diamond. The perfect diamond is defined in accordance to its colour, clarity, carat and weight. Purchasing a diamond ring entails understanding the four ’C’s in order to ensure that you end up with the perfect diamond. Whilst prices vary in accordance to the value placed on the diamond itself, it’s important to understand what you are getting for what you are paying.
Colour
The majority of diamonds come in the white colourless range, however diamonds can be found in a variety of colour. Diamonds are graded in accordance to their colour. Colourless diamonds are graded as a D, and as the diamond develops further colour, they are graded downwards in the alphabet. For instance, a diamond which may have yellow or brown colour in it may be graded at an F or G. Thus, diamonds graded as D are considered most valuable due to their rarity and due to light passing through the diamond effortlessly. When light passes through the diamond, it disperses colours of the rainbow, known as dispersion.
Clarity
The clarity of the diamond is graded under 10x power magnification. Thus, clarity is determined as any feature of the stone that reduces its brilliance or value. This is known as inclusions, and usually are natural occurrences within the structure of the diamond once formed. As a result, the clarity of the diamond is determined by the number of inclusions visible in the stone. The severity of inclusions found, and the location in which it is found in the diamond determine the value of the stone. Flawless diamonds are a rarity and thus extremely valuable.
Cut
The angles and proportions of the diamonds facets, as well as how well the light enters the diamond determines the cut of the stone. The cut of the diamond does not indicate the shape of the diamond, rather the cut refers to the structure of the stone. A well cut diamond reflects light from its facets and then disperses the light to the crown (top of the diamond). A deep cut diamond allows light to disperse from the bottom of the stone whilst a shallow cut diamond causes the light to escape from the bottom of the stone, preventing it from being reflected outward.
Carat Weight
The carat is the basic unit of weight measure for diamonds. The weight measure for diamonds is equal to 0.20 grams. Small diamonds are measured in points where one carat is divided into 100 points. As diamonds increase in size, the more rare and valuable it becomes.
When purchasing a diamond, it is important to consider all four factors. A larger diamond, with yellow colour and poor clarity may not necessarily be more valuable then a smaller diamond with colour grade of D, and perfect clarity. It is important to ensure that you ask questions in order to attain a diamond that suits your taste and budget.
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Five ways to keep your relationship on the ball. October 27, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in Resources, honeymoon.Tags: commitments, family, life, love, marriage, Relationships, wedding, weddings
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Five ways to keep your relationship on the ball.
Entering a committed and long term relationship is not an easy task. After the initial honeymoon phase has worn out, many of us begin to notice the little idiosyncracies that grow to becoming annoying habits. Whilst we may have turned a blind eye once before to these annoying little habits, as the relationship progress, these habits can grow into explosive problems. For some, such habits can destroy the relationship. Most of us will acknowledge that we also may exhibit such annoying traits or habits, and perfection is something that definitely not attainable. So how do we ensure that our relationship stands the test of time, or in some cases the test of annoying habits? We have provided five simple steps to follow to ensure that your relationship is always on the ball.
1. Words of affirmation: Compliment your partner, and use words of appreciation. Provide your partner with encouragement, and show empathy to show that you can see the world from your partner’s perspective. Learn about your partner. Find out what is important to them, what do they value the most. Finding out about your partner provides you with the opportunity to show that you believe in them, that you have faith in them and their abilities. Speak kindly and speak in a manner that represents understanding and kindness. Make requests, not demands as a request introduces the element of choice. Lastly, use indirect compliments, that is, speaking positively about your partner when they are not around.
2. Quality Time: Quality time does not entail existing in the same household. Rather, quality time is about being together, being within close proximity. Share time with one another, engage in an activity together and engage in conversation. This means sharing thoughts, feelings and emotions with one another. Unlike affirmation, the focus is about what is being heard rather than was is being said.
3. Giving and Receiving Gifts: Let your partner know that you are thinking of them. Giving your partner a gift, whether it is small or large, expensive or inexpensive symbolises that you are thinking of them. Whether you decide to make something for your partner, write them a letter, email or simply give them a call, the action shows that you are thinking of them. Letting your partner know that you think of them and love them is an important gift to give, and important to receive. It affirms how you feel towards one another, and strengthens the relationship.
4. Act of service: Ensuring that you help your partner is vital to letting them know that you care. Whether it is vacuuming, or mowing the lawn, these little things indicate partnership and thoughtfulness. Also, it’s important to note what your partner is doing for you. Remember to thank them for their help, as this allows them to understand that you have acknowledged the effort that they have made for you.
5. Physical Touch: The touch of love may incorporate various physical actions. A loving touch can entail giving your partner a massage, sexual intercourse or back rub. Touch can also entail resting your hand on your partner’s shoulder, a hug or kiss. It’s important to discuss what you and your partner desire sexually, and how you both perceive the expression of love making. Simple touches, kisses or cuddles on the couch symbolises love and desire for your partner. Individuals who strive to give their partners a hug or kiss, and who openly discuss their sexual desires often have a stronger connection with their partner. Touching rekindles the old flame, and often helps to re-create the honeymoon phase.
Relationships require hard work and committment. Couples must be committed to one another, and committed to ensuring that the relationship is important enough to put in the hard yards. Strong relationships also experience difficult times, however if you follow these steps, and build a strong foundation, then chances are you will find yourself in a relationship that will stand the test of time.
Top 40 Honeymoon Destinations in New South Wales October 24, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in honeymoon.Tags: family, honeymoon, life, love, marriage, romance, tradition, travel, wedding, wedding dress, weddings
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Name |
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Website |
Phone |
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Jonah’s |
02 99745599 |
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Eagle View Escape |
1300 851829 |
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Seclusions |
02 63556300 |
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Strawberry Patch Cottage |
4304 96755 |
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Varenna Luxury Accommodation |
4304 96755 |
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Falls Moutain Retreat |
02 47578826 |
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York Leura Gardens Resort |
02 47844004 |
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Bishops Court Estate |
02 63324447 |
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Duntryleague |
02 63623822 |
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Orange De Russie Suites |
02 63600973 |
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Boathouse on Hawkesbuy |
02 99858505 |
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Bells at Killcare |
02 43602411 |
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Villa By the Sea |
02 43851170 |
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El Lago Waters Resort |
02 43323955 |
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Mantra Kooindah Waters |
02 43555777 |
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Bluebell Retreat |
1800 802044 |
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Billabong Moon |
02 65747290 |
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Bali at the Bay |
02 49812964 |
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Australia’s Diamond Beach Resort |
02 65592719 |
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Clarendon Forest Retreat |
02 65543085 |
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Nudoobah Retreat |
02 65522818 |
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Pacific Bay Resort |
1300 363360 |
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Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat |
02 66791591 |
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Oubetrees Resort Hotel |
02 92626585 |
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Altitude 1260 Resort |
02 64562511 |
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The Pines Pastoral |
02 48683523 |
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Barefoot Springs |
02 44460509 |
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Bellachara Boutique Hotel |
02 42341359 |
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Kiama Harbour Cabins |
02 43322707 |
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Coast Resort Merimbula |
02 64954930 |
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Tumbling Waters Retreat |
02 42941888 |
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Bannisters Point Lodge |
0244553044 |
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Ulladulla Guest House |
0244551796 |
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Central Coast Holiday Parks |
1800 241342 |
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York Fairmont Resort |
02 47844144 |
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Pet Porpoise Pool |
02 66591900 |
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Raffertys |
02 4972 5555 |
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O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat |
02 55024911 |
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Shoal Bay Resort and Spa |
1800 181810 |
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Glamour on the Bay |
02 4384 7959 |
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Ten steps to helping you deal with a break up. October 12, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in Resources.Tags: family, life, marriage, psychology, relationship, romance, society, wedding car, wedding dress, weddings australia
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Ten steps to helping you deal with a break up.
Shane Warne: Source The Age
Here comes the bride…..there goes the groom! Marriage can be daunting at the best of times, but if you find yourself with a Shane Warne wannabe, then it’s time to bowl him right out of your life. Whilst relationship breakdowns can difficult at the best of times, it’s important to realise that things do happen for a reason and some things are just not meant to be. Sometimes you may need to throw a yorker his way and get him out. So how do you cope after a serious relationship break up? Pick yourself up and try out some of our strategies to dealing with a break up the therapeutic way.
1. Circle of friends- Meet up with the girls and engage in a ritual burning ceremony. Anything that belonged to him goes in the fire, and whilst you’re doing it, why not toast some marshmallows with your friends!
2. Meet and greet – There’s nothing like a night out in town with the girls. Glam yourself up and party with the girls. Being out and about will help you to see that there are always plenty of fish in the sea, and lets face it ladies, some of those fishes can be good enough to eat!
3. Make over – Leaving a serious relationship can be a big change in a your life. Whilst you undergoing one change, why not revamp your ’look’ and have a complete make over. Whilst it may be a quick fix and temporary remedy, it will leaving you feeling gorgeous.
4. Holiday – Take that holiday you always wanted! Organise a group of your girlfriends and go away together. Sometimes leaving the old scenery behind can assist the heart to heal. A happy, warm and social location will help you get out and have fun.
5. Engage in an activity that you have always wanted. Whether it be dancing, or tennis, start something new to commemorate a new beginning for you. It will also help you to meet new people which can be therapeutic as they won’t know anything about your past relationship, thus preventing you from avoiding the dreaded questions about the ex.
6. Relocate – Whilst taking a holiday can provide some new scenery, you may want to think about a complete new start. Often leaving a serious relationship can mean leaving a huge part of your life. Sometimes it’s easier to start a new life without your ex partner in a place where memories don’t exist. Remaining in the same home or even the same suburb can be unhealthy and prolong the healing process.
7. Play catch – Take the time out to catch up with old friends. Sometimes being in a long term relationship can prevent us from spending quality time with our family and friends. Often when we find ourselves alone we seek those who were once close to us. Take the opportunity to call some of your old friends and rekindle those relationships.
8. Reminisce and farewell – Depending on the circumstances of the break up, sometimes it’s nice to remember the good times. Cherish the nice moments, put them away and bid them farewell. Whether good or bad, all relationships provide us with experience one way or another. Learn from your relationship, and take with you the positives. Keeping hold of excess bagage is unhealthy, so make sure that you only pack the essentials before moving into another relationship.
9. Seek professional advice – Sometimes it’s helpful to speak to someone in a professional setting. Counselors can offer objective advice and help you decipher the nuts and bolts without the pre-conceived ideas emerging or the judgements.
10. Time – Remember that it everyone deals with break ups differently. If you feel like you are taking a long time then that’s ok. On the flip side, if you feel that you have dealt with the break remarkable well and have moved on quickly, then that is ok too. We are all different and experience relationship breakdowns differently.
Finalising the end of a relationship can be heartbreaking. Whatever the circumstances, it’s important to engage with close friends and family during this period. Take the time to reflect on who you are, you may find that you learn new things about yourself that you didn’t previously know.
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Honeymoon on a Budget October 6, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in honeymoon.Tags: accommodation, family, holiday, honeymoon, love, romance, wedding dress, Wedding Dresses
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We’ve all heard the famous line, “I don’t want your money honey, I want your love”! Whilst we all look forward to our honeymoon, we are also well aware of the potential costs involved. Weddings are an expensive event on their own; however honeymoons can also contribute significantly to the old bank account drying up.
Many of us today view the honeymoon as an event that not only allows us some quality time with our new husband or wife, but also as an opportunity to have that holiday we always wanted. Overseas trips and activity filled discoveries of the world are becoming extremely common. Whilst having an exciting and adventure filled honeymoon can be enticing, some of us may prefer to experience ‘the love’ whilst keeping the bank balance in check. Here are some tips to ensure that you can spend some quality time with your loved one without blowing your budget.
- Home sweet home – We all know home is where the heart is, and for some, it’s where the love is. Rather than paying for accommodation, why not stay at home and put your money towards daily activities such as going out to a fancy restaurant or going away for day trips. You may find that you will have the opportunity to engage in more activities by saving on accommodation costs.
- Bed and Breakfast – Fancy resorts and hotels are a thing of the past. There are an abundance of bed and breakfasts that are situated in secluded and romantic locations, and best of all, you get breakfast!
- Camping – Why not bring out the tent and enjoy the sunshine! There are a great amount of sites with pristine views. If your not the type to erect a tent, then go for cabin, either way they are an extremely cost effective way to experience the beauty of nature!
- Houseboat – Whilst certain houseboats can put a dint in the budget, there are cheaper options available. You can experience the magic of a cruise whilst having complete control of where you want to go. Whilst you’re out on the water, why not bring out the fishing line and catch dinner!
- Caravan tour – Forget touring Europe! Why not experience the beauty of your own country and hire a caravan! Tour Australia and see the wonders of our country without having to convert your money!!
- Housesit – Know someone who may be going away! Why not house sit and experience being somewhere else. Tour the nearby locations and see what other areas have to offer.
- Pack the Backpack – Backpack around Australia and see the sights! Why not jump on your bike and get fit whilst you travel around the country. There are plenty of lodges around the country for backpackers. It’s definitely a fun and cheap and alternative way to see the country.
- Email alert – Send an email to all your friends and family and see if anyone has a holiday guest house they can allow you to use. You may find that your old great aunt may have a holiday house in the woods that you didn’t know about. Perhaps you can make a deal and tell them that they can lend their holiday home as a wedding gift!
- Time is of the essence – Postpone your honeymoon to a low peak time of the year. If you decide to marry in high peak season (eg December to February), you will find that prices will double as a result of the holiday season. Perhaps you can postpone your honeymoon to the winter months to get those special deals. There is nothing better than being wrapped up in your partner’s arms by a log fire!
- Team Effort – if you are really set on having that action packed adventure honeymoon overseas, why not ask your wedding guest to put forward a contribution towards your holiday rather than purchasing a present. Sometimes team effort can go a long way!
It’s natural for us to want to experience a honeymoon that is special and memorable, however sometimes our financial situation may not allow it. Some couples opt for a honeymoon years after they have been married, and others simply have something small followed by a proper holiday down the track. You often hear of couples saying “we’re on our second honeymoon”, often meaning that they didn’t get to experience a ‘real’ honeymoon the first time. Whatever you chose, it’s also important to note that having a honeymoon is about having some ‘time out’ with your new wife or husband. Where and how that time is spent is up to the individual and the couple as a whole.
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Finding your perfect wedding dress October 1, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in Wedding Dresses.Tags: accessories, advice, family, life, love, romance, tradition, wedding dress, Wedding Dresses, weddings
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Simple steps to finding your perfect wedding dress
Looking your best on your wedding day is essential to ensuring that your day is successful. As a bride, we want to ensure that we experience not only the best day possible, but that we also look our best. Our wedding dress is considered the prized and most valued commodity to our wedding. Whilst weddings are not primarily about the bride, many of us highly regard the bride to be the ‘highlight’ of the wedding. As a result, we encounter the pressure and stress of ensuring that we shine on the day. Often when we commence our wedding preparations, the very first thing we attempt to organise is our wedding dress. This alone can be an extremely difficult task. With an abundance of dresses to choose from, we can often become overwhelmed by the variety available. So, whilst it is a case of trying on the dress and experimenting a little, there are a few simple tips available that can take the edge off this taxing task.
As a general rule, the dress you choose should reflect your personality whilst complimenting your figure. The following should also be considered:
Quality and Workmanship
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Check the workmanship of the dress and ensure that it is of good quality. You don’t want the dress falling apart on the day;
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Sourcing designer dresses from overseas may seem customary, but Australian designers also provide elegant and stunning dresses.
Finding the right dress for your figure
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Make the best of your figure and chose a dress that compliments your shape.
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Full-figured brides should select a dress that skims the body as opposed to hugging it.
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If you’re pear-shaped, then choose an A-line dress to hide the hips and thighs.
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Thin and tall brides should select a dress that accentuates the feminine curves, as opposed to looking thin and straight.
Getting an honest opinion
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Ensure that you bring someone with you who will provide you with an honest opinion.
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Your best friend, maid of honour, mother or anyone else that has known you for a long time will be the best person to offer that constructive advice.
Budget, Budget, Budget!
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Remember that your dress will only be worn once, so if you’re on a tight budget, then don’t overlook the possibility of hiring your dress. You will probably find that you will be able to have that gorgeous dress you dreamt of without the price tag attached.
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Many websites advertise pre-loved wedding dresses for you to purchase. You may also want to have a look at this option.
Skin Tone and tanning
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The shade of your wedding dress should accentuate your skin tone, and not make you look washed out.
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If you plan on tanning for the wedding day, bear in mind that the tone of your skin could alter the colour of the dress.
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Tanning can also remove the eye away from the dress and your groom as the tan becomes extremely noticeable in photos. So if you want to be seen on your wedding day, ensure that you don’t go overboard with the fake tan.
Accessories and the Comfort factor
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Accessories are great, but a good rule of thumb is the fancier the dress, the simpler the jewellery should be.
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If you are wearing large and dramatic earings, then forget the necklace. Instead, try a bracelet.
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If you wish to wear a dramatic necklace, then opt for elegant but less dramatic earings. Bracelets are not recommended if wearing earings and a necklace.
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Consider the length of the dress. Envisage the type of shoes you will wear on the day and determine whether or not you will require dress alterations. You don’t want to be falling on the day.
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If you want minimum fuss on the day, take into account the amount of time it will take you to get into your dress. Dresses with zips are great; you can jump in and get zipped up with minimal fuss. If you don’t mind preparation time, then you might like the look of the lace up back.
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Whilst wearing a veil used to be traditionally part of the wedding attire, today it is strictly optional. If your dress is flamboyant, then you might like to keep it simple and not wear a veil. If you would like to formalise the dress a little, then the veil would be great.
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Wearing gloves may look stunning and accentuate the dress further (Cinderella look), but consider the difficulties you will have when exchanging rings. Often you find that your wedding ring will not fit over the glove.
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Handbags should be small and should match your wedding dress. Ensure that you arrange for someone to hold your handbag during the critical times on your day. You don’t want to be managing a bouquet whilst holding a handbag. Your certainly don’t want to have your handbag in your hand during the wedding photos as it will make your look ‘cluttered’.
Great Hair compliments the dress
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If your dress is simple and elegant, then you might want to have your hair in a dramatic up hair style.
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Alternatively, if your dress is extremely flamboyant, then consider a simple hairstyle. You don’t want to look overdone.
Departing Attire
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If you want to change into another outfit when leaving your reception, ensure that your outfit compliments your wedding dress.
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You want to be remembered as the beautiful and stunning bride, so don’t leave your guest with a last bad impression.
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Wear an outfit that is elegant yet comfortable. This is vital especially if you are travelling straight to your honeymoon venue.
Facing the reality of Facebook September 26, 2008
Posted by Vanessa in Resources.Tags: family, friends, life, love, romance, tradition, wedding dress, Wedding Dresses, weddings
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Facebook is considered to be the social network site of all social network sites. As individuals, we are drawn to the idea of ‘finding’ our friends and ‘catching up’. Many people excitedly join the facebook rage and wait in anticipation as others ‘find’ them and request their friendship. For those who may not have experienced a sense of belonging during their adolescent years, facebook provides that sense of belonging.
Despite the so called positive social networking that occurs on facebook, many of us fail to sit back and explore the concept closely. Firstly, we become immersed in the hype of finding the people that we know, or the people that we once knew. So, in an attempt to satisfy our curiosity, we join facebook. And let’s be real, many of us join facebook not to find our ‘friends’ because we care, but to compare our lives to those of others. It’s a competitive world and we are naturally competitive.
Many of us sit on facebook and continually confirm friends, not because we liked the person or because we were friends with the person, but because it allows our friends list to continually grow. Having a large group of friends is often perceived as being an indicator of popularity or importance, and even into adulthood, this misconception continues.
For those who simply want to use facebook to genuinely catch up with old friends or family, being part of the culture can be extremely painful. You are constantly inundated with strangers who request all sorts of strange things apart from your ‘friendship’. You are poked by others who in the real world would never have the courage to speak to you let alone poke you, and your profile suddenly becomes engulfed by inappropriate comments and discussions that you do not want to be a part of.
Whilst you have the option to limit what you receive, many of these irritating requests and comments continue to flow through. So, what is facebook for? Is it simply a tool to find those long lost friends, or is it a tool in which individuals can adopt new personas and live in a virtual world that holds no boundaries or consequences?
Facebook is not a site whereby people can find one another; rather, it is a site that allows individuals to become someone other than themselves in order to obtain friends. Whilst we can find our friends, facebook does not guarantee safety from the individuals who engage in predatory behaviours in order to seek a sense of belonging.
Find your wedding dress on Kiss the Bride.
Rambo, Death and Family September 14, 2008
Posted by Damon Taylor in Politics of Weddings.Tags: death, family, rambo, veterans, weddings
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Rambo | Source Blog.ugo.com
Last night I saw the latest Rambo movie. It was more out of curiosity than anything. I’ll leave the critique to the experts but looking past the obvious, there were a few themes that stuck in my mind.
Firstly it reinforced the cruelty of war. Some would agree that such movies glorify war. For me, Rambo highlighted the senseless killing of the innocent and how life is cheap in some countries.Some of the gruesome scenes illustrated the agonizing waste of life.
Once again, Rambo showed how disconnected some war veterans are. These days our soldiers have access to counselors to assist them. Years ago, these kinds of support services didn’t exist. Soldiers were simply referred to as shell shock victims. Whether we agree or disagree with our governments over troop deployment, our troops need support and respect on their return. After all they are just doing their job in a world where military forces are still needed. The world still has a lot of growing up to do before we can live without the security of a military force.
In a strange way, Rambo illustrated a sense of family. During the movie, Rambo mentions his father which he hasn’t seem for quite some time. The last scene of the movie shows Rambo walking up his father’s driveway as the credits roll up. Whilst we never see the reunion with Rambo’s father, it made me realize the importance of family in everyone’s life… even Rambo’s. Obviously Rambo had his monosyllabic reasons for the distance between his father, yet it still made me wonder what the reasons were and how the conversation may have progressed.
Families are a complex dynamic. Applying the family thermometer to measure the health of one’s family can be a difficult task. There can be many factors which determine a healthy family unit. For some, forgiveness can be a challenge. It’s always useful to sit back and periodically reflect on our family unit and ask ourselves the hard questions. Am I trying hard enough to connect with my family? Is there anything more I can do? Should I throw out the olive branch once more?
If anything, Rambo made me reflect on my family. I called my dad and we had a long chat.
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Olympic Games – Politically Unified August 27, 2008
Posted by Damon Taylor in Politics of Weddings, Resources.Tags: family, life, love, olympics, politics, religion, romance, society, sport, wedding, wedding dress, Wedding Dresses, weddings
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Olympic Motto: “The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well”.
The Olympic Motto endeavors to promote unity and idealism in a world that is not so idealistic. For many nations, the Olympic Game is simply an event in which the struggles and triumphs are featured. For some countries, winning supersede the idealisms of unity and sportsmanship.
In addition to the motto, symbols are also utilised in an attempt to convey representations illustrating unity and collectivism. The five rings consisting of the colours white, red, blue, green, yellow and black represent a colour used in every nation’s national flag. The rings thus represent the unity of the five inhabited continents and the countries comprised within these continents.
Subsequent symbols such as the torch relay and the nation’s mascot are also used in order to encompass the ‘unified’ approach of the games. Whilst these symbols are widely used within the games, the proposed meanings affiliated with ‘unity’ fail to emerge. Rather than creating unity, the Olympic Games highlight the controversies and political agendas of the very nations that represent the Olympic ideals. Such political agendas can be signified by the 1936 Olympics in Berlin whereby the German Nazi Party employed the games as propaganda to illustrate the supremacy of the Aryan race and the facist political structure. Similarly, the Soviet Union refused to participate in the Olympic Games until 1952 and instead created their own games consisting of athletes who supported the Communist organisations.
In 1968, the so called ‘unity’ of the Olympic Games was highlighted when two American track and field athletes rewarded viewers with the Black Power salute after receiving their medals. In response to the unanimity of the athletes, the International Olympic Committee ordered the athletes home. Nations throughout the world have also embraced the Olympic ideals by successfully boycotting certain Olympic Games. The Melbourne Olympics in 1956 was the first Olympic game to be boycotted by Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland due to the repression of the Hungarian uprising by the Soviet Union. This became a unanimous approach when Cambodia, Egypt, Iraq and Lebanon also boycotted the same game due to the Suez Crisis.
In 1972 and 1976, further boycotts occurred from a number of African countries who had requested that the IOC ban South Africa, Rhodesia and New Zealand. When the IOC failed to concede, the African countries withdrew their athletes from the games, despite the fact that some of the athletes had already competed. Further boycotts occurred in 1980 whereby sixty-five nations refused to participate at the Moscow Olympics due to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
Only just recently, the 2008 Olympic Games in Bejing encompassed a growing number of threats to boycott the games due to China’s poor human rights record and response to the recent issues in Tibet, Darfur and Taiwan.
Additionally, controversies have also emerged criticizing the International Olympic Committee as being autocratic and corrupt. In 1998, it became widely known that certain IOC members had taken bribes in exchange for votes to elect the upcoming host city. This resulted in four members resigning and six members terminated.
Whilst the Olympic Games have grown to include thousands of competitors participating in hundreds of events, it is becoming increasingly evident that the very ideals upheld by the ‘Olympics’, are failing to be represented by the participating nations. Whilst the Olympic motto provides an idealistic representation of the Olympics, it fails to represent the reality of the games.
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