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Showing posts from September, 2024

Title: Algeria's MiG-29 Donation: Fueling Sudan’s Civilian Bloodshed?

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Algeria’s decision to donate MiG-29 fighter jets to Sudan feels like a dangerous step in the wrong direction. These planes aren’t just hardware—they’re weapons that will be used in a war that’s already taken far too many innocent lives. With the Sudanese military accused of bombing civilians, this move by Algeria seems less like assistance and more like adding fuel to the fire. It’s disturbing that, instead of pushing for peace, Algeria is sending more tools for destruction. The conflict in Sudan has been raging since the 2019 coup, and this is just the latest development in a country that’s spiraling out of control. What’s Algeria’s endgame here? Are they really okay with their jets being used to kill civilians? This situation isn’t just about geopolitics—it’s about human lives.  Read more about the implications of this donation here: MiG-29 Fighters Fuel Sudan’s Civil War.

The Importance of Quiet Time in a Noisy World.

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We live in a world that’s constantly buzzing—notifications, meetings, social media updates, the endless stream of news, and entertainment. It’s easy to get swept up in the noise, to feel like you need to be “on” all the time, always available, always doing something. For the longest time, I thought this was normal. If I wasn’t busy, I felt like I wasn’t being productive enough, like I was missing out on something. But lately, I’ve realized just how important quiet time is. I remember the first time I truly unplugged for a weekend—no phone, no emails, no distractions. At first, it was uncomfortable. I kept reaching for my phone out of habit, feeling this strange anxiety that I was missing out on something important. But after a while, the silence became comforting. Without the constant noise, I could hear myself think. I started reflecting on things I hadn’t given much attention to before. I was more present, more aware of my surroundings, and surprisingly, more at peace. Wh...

The Art of Saying “I Don’t Know".

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There was a time when I felt like I had to have all the answers. Whether it was at work, in conversations with friends, or even just in casual debates, admitting “I don’t know” felt like a failure. It felt like I was letting people down or that my credibility would take a hit if I didn’t have a solid answer ready. So, instead, I’d scramble to come up with something—even if it wasn’t entirely accurate—just to avoid that uncomfortable moment of uncertainty. But over time, I’ve learned that there’s a real strength in saying “I don’t know.” It’s honest, it’s human, and most importantly, it opens the door to learning. None of us are walking encyclopedias, and it’s impossible to have all the answers all the time. Admitting that you don’t know something doesn’t mean you’re unqualified or unknowledgeable. In fact, it shows a willingness to learn and a level of humility that’s often overlooked in our fast-paced, “always know everything” culture. What’s interesting is that once I sta...

UAE’s Commitment to Tolerance Praised at UN Human Rights Council.

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In a significant move that highlights the UAE’s dedication to tolerance and rehabilitation, the country recently pardoned a group of Bangladeshi nationals convicted of security-related crimes. This pardon was met with praise from over 20 human rights organizations during the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council. The decision, guided by the leadership of President MBZ, showcases the UAE's humanitarian approach to justice, focusing on giving individuals a second chance while maintaining public order. The Bangladeshi nationals were initially convicted of violating security laws in the UAE, but their pardon speaks volumes about the country’s belief in forgiveness and rehabilitation. It reflects a broader effort to create a balanced approach between security and human rights, one that values both accountability and compassion. This decision also highlights the UAE’s efforts to foster tolerance within its borders and on the global stage. What makes this moment even mor...

The Overwhelming World of Decision Fatigue

Lately, I’ve noticed that by the end of the day, I’m completely drained—not just physically, but mentally. And it’s not because of one big task or a difficult conversation; it’s the sheer number of decisions I have to make throughout the day. From the moment I wake up, it’s one choice after another—what to wear, what to eat, how to structure my day, which tasks to tackle first. It sounds small, but all these decisions add up, and by the time evening rolls around, I feel completely tapped out. That’s decision fatigue, and it’s real. What’s tricky about decision fatigue is that it often creeps up on you without you realizing it. It’s not just about big, life-altering decisions. It’s the endless stream of little choices that wear you down. And when your mental energy is spent, you’re more likely to make impulsive or poor decisions because your brain just doesn’t have the bandwidth to weigh the options anymore. I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit—whether it’s opting for fast ...

The Pressure of Constant Connectivity.

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Have you ever felt like you can’t escape the notifications? Whether it’s work emails, texts, social media updates, or group chats, it feels like there’s always something demanding your attention. I remember a time when logging off at the end of the workday meant I could truly disconnect, but now? Now, it feels like we’re expected to be available 24/7. It’s exhausting. The constant ping of a new message or the pressure to respond immediately can make it feel like there’s no real downtime, even when you’re physically away from your desk. This pressure to always be “on” isn’t just about work—it seeps into our personal lives, too. How many times have you mindlessly scrolled through social media instead of enjoying a quiet moment? I’ve caught myself doing it way too often, especially when I’m supposed to be relaxing. Instead of being present, I’m caught up in everyone else’s updates, and I feel drained rather than refreshed. It’s like we’re constantly plugged into the world, but...

Australia and UAE Seal Major Trade Deal to Boost Agricultural Exports and Investment.

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Australia 🇦🇺 is making bold moves on the global stage, with a new trade deal with the UAE 🇦🇪 that’s set to transform agricultural exports and investments. This agreement will see bilateral trade grow by over 40% within the next 5 years, reaching an estimated A$1.7 billion. What makes this deal so significant? Beyond the economic benefits, it marks a strategic shift for Australia, as the country works to diversify away from its heavy reliance on China and build stronger, more sustainable partnerships in regions like the Middle East. The UAE is already Australia’s third-largest export market in the MENA region, and this deal will only strengthen those ties. For Australia, this is more than just a trade agreement – it's a step towards a more resilient and diversified economy. 🌾💼 Key Highlights: Trade set to increase by 40% within 5 years. Estimated value of bilateral trade: A$1.7 billion. Strengthened ties in the Middle East, reducing reliance on China. Australia is ...

Why We Need to Normalize Saying “No”.

For the longest time, I was a chronic people-pleaser. Every time someone asked me for a favor, to join a project, or even just to hang out, my immediate response was “yes.” I didn’t even pause to think about whether I actually had the time, energy, or desire to commit. It’s almost like I felt obligated to agree to everything, out of fear of disappointing someone or appearing unhelpful. But over time, constantly saying yes began to wear me down. I was overwhelmed, exhausted, and often found myself stretched so thin that I couldn’t give my best to anything I had agreed to. What I didn’t realize back then is that saying “no” isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. We can’t do it all, and we shouldn’t feel like we have to. It took a lot of trial and error for me to understand that by saying no, I was actually protecting my time and energy for the things that mattered most to me. I started recognizing the importance of setting boundaries, not just for my own well-being, but also to show up better in ...

UAE Brokers Russia-Ukraine POW Swap.

In the midst of a brutal conflict, it’s rare to see anything resembling cooperation between Russia and Ukraine. Yet, thanks to the UAE’s mediation, 206 prisoners of war were exchanged between the two countries—106 Russian soldiers and 106 Ukrainians. This prisoner swap offers a rare moment of relief in an otherwise relentless war, and it raises an interesting question: If they can agree on this, what else might be possible? The UAE has quietly positioned itself as a neutral party capable of facilitating dialogue in even the most hostile environments. For a country that’s often seen as focused on business and innovation, it’s remarkable to see them step up in the humanitarian space. This isn’t the first time the UAE has been involved in such efforts, but it may be one of the most impactful, reminding the world that even in the darkest of times, diplomacy can find a way. What makes this swap so significant is that it shows both sides are still capable of communication, even as they conti...

Why It’s Okay to Not Be Productive All the Time

We’ve all had those days where productivity feels impossible. You wake up with every intention of knocking things off your to-do list, but by noon, you’ve barely scratched the surface. It’s frustrating, especially when it feels like everyone else is moving at full speed while you’re stuck in neutral. I used to beat myself up over days like this, convinced that I wasn’t doing enough, wasn’t working hard enough. But over time, I’ve learned that it’s okay to not be productive all the time—and that’s been a game-changer for my mental health. The idea that we need to be constantly productive is deeply ingrained in us. There’s this societal pressure to always be hustling, always pushing forward. But what I’ve realized is that productivity comes in waves. Some days, you’re on fire, checking off tasks left and right. Other days, your mind and body are telling you to slow down. It’s taken me a long time to understand that the slower days aren’t a failure—they’re a necessary part of the cycle. W...

The Struggle to Find Work-Life Balance

Finding a balance between work and personal life feels like an impossible juggling act most days. I’m sure many of us have experienced the pressure of trying to stay on top of deadlines, meetings, and emails, all while keeping some semblance of a personal life intact. For me, it’s always been a challenge to find that sweet spot where I’m productive at work, but not completely drained by the end of the day. And yet, no matter how many articles I read or advice I get, achieving true work-life balance feels elusive. There’s always that internal guilt—if I’m focusing too much on work, I feel like I’m neglecting my personal relationships or self-care. But when I take time for myself or spend a few hours with friends, the nagging thought of unfinished tasks looms in the back of my mind. It’s like I’m constantly bouncing between being “on” for work and trying to squeeze in a bit of downtime. And don’t get me started on the days where you’re supposed to “log off” but can’t resist checking that...

The Unexpected Magic of Solo Travel.

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A few years ago, I took a leap and decided to embark on my first solo trip. It wasn't planned in the meticulous way most of my vacations had been. Instead, it was a spontaneous decision born from the overwhelming urge to disconnect from everything familiar. I booked a one-way ticket to a small coastal town I’d only ever read about and packed lightly—just the essentials and an open mind. As I boarded that flight, the sense of freedom that washed over me was unparalleled. It wasn’t just about the destination anymore; it was the idea that I was doing this on my own, without a set itinerary or anyone to answer to. The first few days were disorienting. Without a companion to lean on, I found myself hyper-aware of everything around me—the smells, the sounds, the way the locals interacted with one another. There was a strange blend of loneliness and exhilaration that followed me around. I had never realized how much I relied on others to shape my experiences. But being alone f...

Dream Big, God Can Fund It

When we talk about dreaming big, it’s more than just about setting lofty goals or visualizing a perfect future; it’s about believing in something that seems beyond our reach. Many people are afraid to dream big because they focus on their current limitations — their bank accounts, their status, or their circumstances. But here's the thing: dreaming big is not about having all the resources upfront. It’s about having faith that what you need will come, somehow, in ways you might not even expect. I believe God can fund our dreams because He’s not limited by the same things we are. I’ve often heard people say, “I can’t afford to dream that big.” And it’s true; from a human standpoint, our resources might be limited. But the world is filled with stories of people who had nothing but a dream and a belief that something greater than themselves would provide the way. These people didn’t necessarily have more resources, but they had a strong conviction that their dream was possible. When y...