Editor,
I was one of the runners who had participated in the Sohra Marathon of 2015, which was inaugurated by the Chief Minister, Dr Mukul Sangma. It was nice to see him there with many dignitaries including some of his colleagues like Ampareen Lyngdoh. The then Chief Secretary, Barkos Warjri was also present. Their presence combined with the runners’ enthusiasm rendered an almost festive air to the whole race. It was a great mix of professionalism and pure fun. These kinds of gestures by the top people of the Government is rarely shown where I come from. Though I worked for a University based in Shillong I was not from hereabouts. I am from Chennai. The sheer hospitality was overwhelming. I had sponsored 10 boys and girls from Umsning where I am based. They came to know what a Marathon was and what it took to win one! The youngsters definitely got a good exposure which I am sure they will not easily forget. I am highlighting these and many other good points which went to make the Sohra 2015 a great success. I only wish that the RunMeghalaya Convenor, Gerald Pde… (three cheers to him for remaining calm and collected throughout the event in spite of various responsibilities)…could persist with his wonderful initiative to continue this beautiful event with suitable changes which may be required due to whatever factors which forced them to discontinue it this year. I, for one can liaise with some top corporate houses down south to sponsor this event if there are financial constraints.
Yours etc.,
Sushil D Bhagavandas
Umsning – 5
Quest for mental peace!
Editor,
It is human greed that causes poverty, slavery and all kinds of human miseries for the needy and mechanical existence and boredom for the greedy. And these products of human greed trigger depression among us. Indeed, if we can change ourselves, we will be able to make our political, social and economic environment free from pollution and there is no question of searching for an antidote to depression in such an ideal environment. But it would be foolish to let depression snowball within us just waiting for such an egalitarian world. In that case, depression will overpower us and ultimately kill us. So, we need to desperately search for immediate relief for our own survival. To combat bronchial disease, our doctors sometimes advise us to wear masks. This is not to belittle air pollution or our physical strength but to survive amidst pollution. Similarly, when a psychologist or a friend advises us to listen to soothing music, to read an inspiring book and to get solace in the beauty of nature, she/ he also does not belittle social pollution or our mental strength. Such prescription is only for getting us going even in a bad environment.
It is dangerous to try tobacco products, alcohol or drugs to rid ourselves of depression or any kind of mental stress. These will only add insult to injury. It will be like pouring diesel to put out the fires of depression. It is also dangerous to nurture the idea that mental illness and physical illness exist in two completely separate compartments. Such prejudices make us treat mental patients with suspicion and make fun of them especially in working places. But we need to remember that the mind and the body are closely connected and therefore such rigid compartmentalization does not make any sense.
We all need a good natural and social environment to keep all diseases away. Indeed, we all need an environment where everyone can get such material things as potable water, nutritious food, enough money and such spiritual things as cooperation, compassion, love and satisfaction. Until we can make our world such a heaven, we must not hesitate to get solace in music, books and in the beauties of nature even if they provide us only with temporary relief. After all, they have no negative side effects but only positive ones.
Yours etc.,
Sujit De,
Kolkata
Expression of gratitude
Editor,
We take this opportunity through your esteemed daily to thank the staff and plumbers of Shillong Municipality Board (SMB) for doing a great job in repairing the big water pipe which had broken at two places since July 13, near Pine Mount School and just over the Umshyrpi stream. With a lot of effort by the plumbers, finally a new pipe was installed and water supply was restored on July 20. The non- stop rainfall deterred the workers because they had to work on a bamboo platform set up over the gushing stream.The telephone operator at the SMB Public Grievance Cell too was very helpful and courteous.
Please keep up the good work!
Your etc.,
JJyrwa, M Mawrie,
K Acharya & Z Khan
Stop interfering!
Editor,
When we talk about the political scenario of Meghalaya, I cannot help but comment on it. The war of words between the two national parties – the Congress and the BJP is getting murkier by the day. From the BJP’s side we have seen Nalin Kohli, Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Ministers, etc pointing their fingers at the Congress- led Government in the State on various issues. I cannot understand why these people from outside Meghalaya are interfering into the everyday affairs of the state! Why are they pointing fingers at our political affairs? We have never seen a political leader of Meghalaya pointing fingers at the political matters of any state. These loose cannons should not be allowed to have a free run of Meghalaya. They have better things to do elsewhere and in their respective states.
People and political leaders of Meghalaya should not allow these loudmouths to have their way. This is our state hence people coming in from outside should learn how to practice restraint. The Chief Minister of Meghalaya had been aggressive in replying to their accusations. Others should follow suit.
Yours etc.,
Joannes JTL Lamare,
Nongkrem