Happenings Down Under - politics, business, economy and values ... as well as leisure, food and hobbies
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Friendship - true friends among acquaintances
In the last few days, I have been deeply touched and learnt the lesson that even common friends and aquaintances can be true and valuable friends. Though we only communicated once is many months and had collaborated briefly on some community work, I appreciate their concern and care for each other's well being, health, work and family.
Hearsays that people from certain backgrounds, education and occupations are cold, insensitive, materialistic and uncaring. Such unfair and prejudicial views have been proven erroneous many times.
"With friends like that, you don't need enemies". Well, that statement may seem a bit too harsh. Let's say, actions demonstrate if certain people can be counted on. One does not need substantial help whether in the form of effort, money or time spent, just a little word of encouragement and expression of understanding.
In conclusion, we do not have to be longtime friends, family members or close associates to forge a meaningful and lasting friendships.
You many not need to have many so-called friends to be happy. Quality prevails over superficial quantity.
Thankfully I am one of the fortunate people with a few good friends, and the numbers are growing.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Coverup package meal deal - a violation of Trade Practices Act?
I would like to share one incident which is not a clear cut case of contravention but nevertheless caused unease.
The Trade Practices Act focuses on fulfiling promises of bait advertisements. We have to interpret how the context fits in with the statute.
http://www.accc.gov.au/content/item.phtml?itemId=304501&nodeId=04bc9aa47950c6358a6e573a1537af3d&fn=Advertising%20&%20selling_A4%20flyer_Jan07.pdf
Normally business managers and staff would size up and gauge the attitude of the customer to attempt a gloss over. But looks can be deceptive and they may be taking a chance if someone is bent on seeking justice from the small claims tribunal even when small amounts are involved.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Lost and Found Properties - distraction or forgetfulness of the young?
I thought it is unique to our young kids who are ever so forgetful and careless with belongings. After doing a straw poll among friends and their social circle, then did I realise that we are not alone. It feels better but nevertheless remains a concern.
How many times a year have parents got to replace lost uniforms - from head to toe (sweater, jumper, jacket, hat, sports attire, shoes, etc). Having names written on the items is no guarantee that it would be found if they are left in school, the trains, shops, library or random stairs and public seats.
More bizzare cases are loss of wallets containing student card and weekly allowance and school text books which have to be ordered and replaced if they belong to a public state school.
Necessities are fine but we don't have deep pockets to pay for absent-mindedness.
ADHD or plain carelessless?
http://www.cityrail.info/contact_us/lost_property