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When Desire Replaces Compassion
When the river first arrived in Devpur, it was not called a miracle. It was simply water, flowing where water always had. It curved around the village like a patient guardian, feeding fields, filling wells, and cooling tired feet at dusk. Children learned to swim in it before they learned to write their names. Elders sat by its banks every evening, arguing about harvests and memories with equal seriousness. No one thought to own it. No one thought to sell it.
By Ibrahim Shah 8 days ago in Families
Quiz of the Week: How Tall Are These Puffins?. AI-Generated.
Each week, readers are invited to test their knowledge of the natural world, current affairs, and curious facts through a popular “Quiz of the Week.” This time, the spotlight falls on one of the North Atlantic’s most beloved seabirds: the puffin. Known for their bright orange beaks, comical walk, and striking black-and-white plumage, puffins often appear larger or smaller in photographs depending on perspective. The quiz’s central question — how tall are these puffins? — challenges assumptions shaped by camera angles, landscapes, and visual illusions. Puffins are commonly called the “clowns of the sea,” but few people know their true dimensions. When standing upright, an Atlantic puffin typically measures between 25 and 30 centimeters (about 10 to 12 inches) tall. That places them roughly the height of a standard school ruler. However, photos taken with wide-angle lenses or against dramatic cliffs can make puffins appear far bigger — or surprisingly tiny — than they really are. The Science of Size Perception The quiz explores how human perception can be misled when viewing wildlife images without a frame of reference. A puffin perched on a cliff ledge may look imposing when photographed close up, but when compared with surrounding rocks or vegetation, its modest height becomes clear. Conversely, when puffins are photographed next to larger seabirds like gulls or gannets, they can appear smaller than expected. This phenomenon is part of a broader psychological effect known as size constancy illusion, where the brain attempts to judge an object’s size without enough environmental clues. Wildlife photographers often use this effect deliberately to create dramatic compositions, sometimes leading viewers to misjudge scale. The quiz presents a series of images of puffins in different settings — standing on grass, perched on rocks, and flying near the sea — asking participants to estimate their height. Many answers submitted by readers tend to overshoot the true figure, with guesses ranging from 40 to 60 centimeters. Puffins in the Wild Puffins inhabit coastal regions of the North Atlantic, nesting on cliffs and grassy slopes in Iceland, Norway, Scotland, Ireland, and parts of Canada. Despite their small stature, puffins are remarkable flyers and swimmers. Their wings beat rapidly — up to 400 times per minute — enabling them to “fly” underwater while hunting fish such as sand eels and herring. Their compact size is an evolutionary advantage. Being small allows puffins to maneuver easily both in the air and underwater, while their dense feathers provide insulation against cold ocean temperatures. During breeding season, their beaks turn bright orange and yellow, a visual signal used in courtship and recognition. Why Puffins Fool the Eye One reason puffins appear larger than they are is their upright posture. Unlike many seabirds that crouch or hunch forward, puffins stand tall, with their chest pushed outward and head held high. This posture gives them a confident, almost penguin-like silhouette. Another factor is their oversized beak, which can account for a significant portion of their visible profile. In photographs, the beak draws attention and exaggerates their apparent scale. When viewers focus on the beak rather than the body, the brain subconsciously inflates the bird’s overall size. The quiz highlights how lighting and background also influence perception. A puffin against a clear blue sky looks larger than one surrounded by dense vegetation or other animals. Shadows and contrast can further distort how big or small the bird seems. Education Through Play The “Quiz of the Week” format is designed not just for entertainment but also for learning. By using puffins as the subject, the quiz draws attention to wildlife awareness and ecological literacy. Readers come away not only with a corrected sense of scale but also with a deeper appreciation of how animals are adapted to their environments. Educators have praised this approach for encouraging observation skills. Instead of simply providing facts, the quiz asks participants to reason visually, estimate measurements, and compare images critically. In an age dominated by digital images and social media, these skills are increasingly important. Puffins and Conservation Beyond the quiz, puffins face serious challenges in the real world. Climate change has affected fish stocks, making it harder for puffins to find food during breeding season. Rising sea temperatures and overfishing have contributed to declining populations in some regions, particularly in the UK and Iceland. Conservation groups stress that understanding and appreciating puffins — including their true size and physical traits — can help foster public support for protective measures. The quiz serves as a light-hearted entry point into a much heavier topic: the fragile balance of marine ecosystems. A Small Bird with Big Appeal Ultimately, the quiz’s answer surprises many participants: puffins are smaller than expected, yet their charm is enormous. Standing just a foot tall, they manage to capture global attention through personality, color, and behavior. The popularity of the quiz reflects a wider fascination with nature and visual puzzles. By asking a simple question — how tall are these puffins? — it opens the door to scientific insight, conservation awareness, and a reminder that appearances can be deceiving. In the end, the lesson is clear: puffins may be small in stature, but they loom large in the imagination. And sometimes, the best way to learn about the natural world is through a question that makes us look twice.
By Fiaz Ahmed 8 days ago in Longevity
The Role of Project Management Software in Australian Companies
Introduction Australian companies today operate in an environment where projects are becoming more complex and time-sensitive. Teams often work across departments, locations, and even time zones. Managing this level of coordination using manual methods can lead to confusion and delays. As a result, many organisations now rely on digital tools to help them plan, organise, and deliver projects more effectively.
By jimmie Lotte8 days ago in Writers
Squid Game Executions.
Why is Squid Game called Squid Game? When no apparent squid, real or otherwise, is featured. What I have seen of the game is just a load of hapless South Koreans being shot at by a giant doll. Those who can get through win a huge sum of money. Of course, it is just a concept, a drama, where poor people are encouraged to take part to win this money. Though fictional, the concept of people taking part in a game where most of them will die to win a large amount of money for entertainment is morally questionable to me. However, like Traitors in the UK, also with a morally questionable agenda, the show is watched by millions around the world.
By Nicholas Bishop8 days ago in The Swamp
The day of silence
When Quiet Speaks Louder Than Words The town of Nandipur was not known for silence. It lived on chatter—vendors calling out prices, children racing through narrow lanes, radios humming behind half-closed doors, and neighbors debating everything from politics to rainfall. Words filled every corner, as if silence were something to be feared.
By Ibrahim Shah 8 days ago in Families
When the Path Becomes Invisible: My Journey Through the Fog. AI-Generated.
1. Life Feels Cloudy Sometimes, life doesn't give you a clear road. Instead, it gives you a thick fog. I’ve been there—where your dreams start to look cloudy and your goals feel out of reach. It’s like walking in a mist where you can't even see your own feet.
By Hazrat Umer8 days ago in Journal
Saudi’s Neom Replaced by Almaty as Asian Winter Games Host. AI-Generated.
The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has officially announced that Almaty, Kazakhstan, will host the upcoming Asian Winter Games, replacing Saudi Arabia’s futuristic mega-city project Neom. The decision follows months of growing concerns over logistical readiness, infrastructure delays, and the unprecedented challenge of staging a major winter sports event in a desert region. Saudi Arabia had initially won the bid to host the Games as part of its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to transform the kingdom into a global hub for sports, tourism, and entertainment. The selection of Neom — a planned $500-billion high-tech city on the Red Sea — was intended to showcase Saudi Arabia’s technological innovation, including indoor ski slopes and artificial snow facilities. However, the project’s timelines and technical feasibility have increasingly come under scrutiny. Concerns Over Readiness and Climate Sources close to the OCA said the decision was driven by “practical and sporting considerations.” Hosting winter events such as alpine skiing, biathlon, and snowboarding in a region with no natural snowfall would have required massive energy consumption and artificial snow production, raising both environmental and operational questions. Despite Saudi assurances that Neom’s Trojena mountain resort would be ready in time, inspectors reportedly found that several core venues were still under construction and far from competition-ready. Transportation networks, athlete villages, and safety infrastructure also remained incomplete. In contrast, Almaty offered a proven winter sports environment. The Kazakh city sits near the Tian Shan mountains and already boasts world-class facilities, including the Medeu speed skating rink and Shymbulak ski resort. These venues previously hosted international competitions and require minimal new construction. An OCA official said the choice of Almaty ensures “certainty, sustainability, and athlete safety,” adding that the organization could not risk delays that might compromise the Games’ credibility. Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Setback For Saudi Arabia, the loss of hosting rights represents a notable setback in its sports diplomacy campaign. Over the past decade, the kingdom has invested heavily in international sporting events, including Formula One races, boxing championships, and football tournaments. The Asian Winter Games were meant to symbolize Saudi Arabia’s leap into non-traditional sports and its technological capacity to overcome environmental limits. In a brief statement, Saudi officials said they respected the OCA’s decision and would continue developing Neom and its tourism infrastructure. They emphasized that Trojena remains a key part of the country’s long-term vision and that winter tourism projects would proceed regardless of the Games. However, analysts say the reversal exposes the tension between ambition and feasibility. “Neom represents Saudi Arabia’s desire to redefine what is possible, but mega-events require reliability,” said one regional sports policy expert. “The OCA opted for a safer option.” Almaty’s Opportunity Kazakhstan welcomed the announcement as a chance to reaffirm its status as Central Asia’s leading winter sports destination. Government officials said hosting the Games would boost tourism, generate jobs, and enhance the country’s international profile. Almaty previously bid for the 2022 Winter Olympics and narrowly lost to Beijing. Local authorities view the Asian Winter Games as both a consolation prize and a stepping stone toward future Olympic ambitions. Preparations are expected to focus on upgrading existing venues rather than constructing new ones, aligning with sustainability goals promoted by international sporting bodies. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev praised the decision, saying it reflected “confidence in Kazakhstan’s sporting infrastructure and organizational experience.” Environmental and Ethical Debate The change in host city also reflects a broader shift in how international sporting organizations view climate and sustainability. Critics of the Neom bid argued that building winter sports facilities in a desert region contradicted environmental responsibility, especially amid global climate concerns. Human rights groups had also raised questions about labor conditions and transparency linked to large construction projects in Neom. While the OCA did not publicly cite these issues as decisive factors, observers note that they likely contributed to the organization’s cautious stance. By contrast, Almaty’s natural climate and existing venues reduce the need for large-scale construction and carbon-intensive snowmaking, making it a more environmentally defensible choice. Looking Ahead The Asian Winter Games will now move forward under Almaty’s stewardship, with organizers promising a traditional winter sports atmosphere and strong regional participation. Athletes and national federations have largely welcomed the decision, expressing relief that competitions will take place in a location designed for snow and ice events. For Saudi Arabia, the episode underscores the challenges of transforming bold visions into operational realities. While Neom remains a symbol of future ambition, the reassignment of the Games highlights the limits of innovation when confronted with climate, timelines, and international sporting standards. As preparations begin in Kazakhstan, the shift from desert megacity to mountain metropolis marks a return to conventional winter sports logic — and a reminder that even the most ambitious projects must meet practical demands when hosting the world’s athletes.
By Fiaz Ahmed 8 days ago in The Swamp
7 Books About Leaving Yourself Behind. AI-Generated.
Leaving yourself behind doesn’t mean abandoning who you are—it means releasing outdated identities, limiting beliefs, and unconscious patterns that no longer serve your growth. At some point, many of us feel an internal friction: the life we’re living no longer matches the person we sense we’re becoming. That tension is the quiet invitation to change.
By Diana Meresc8 days ago in BookClub
Gold bulls hold firm after historic metals sell-off — but silver could be in for a bumpier ride. AI-Generated.
The precious metals market has rarely looked as dramatic as it did during the recent historic sell-off. Prices across gold, silver, and other metals plunged in a wave of liquidation that rattled investors and raised questions about whether the long-standing bull case for precious metals had finally cracked. Yet, in the aftermath of this sharp decline, gold bulls appear remarkably steady. Silver, however, may be facing a more uncertain and volatile path forward.
By Sajida Sikandar8 days ago in The Swamp
Florida Police Chief Sentenced to Three Years
Federal records show that one victim, identified only as “C.D.”, was wrongfully arrested in January 2013 by Officer Guillermo Ravelo under Atesiano’s direction. Ravelo falsely charged C.D. with burglary, despite having no probable cause, as part of the chief’s plan to artificially inflate the department’s success rate.
By Organic Products 8 days ago in Criminal
Ramadan Work Hours in UAE: Private Sector Rules, Exemptions and Overtime Explained. AI-Generated.
As the holy month of Ramadan begins, working hours across the United Arab Emirates are adjusted in line with federal labor regulations designed to support fasting employees while maintaining productivity in both public and private sectors. For private sector companies in particular, the rules surrounding reduced working hours, exemptions, and overtime often raise questions for employers and employees alike. Under UAE labor law, private sector employees are entitled to a reduction in daily working hours during Ramadan, regardless of whether they are fasting. This provision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring worker welfare while respecting the religious significance of the month. Reduced Working Hours According to the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), the standard working day for private sector employees is reduced by two hours per day during Ramadan. This applies to all workers, including Muslim and non-Muslim employees, and is not limited only to those who are fasting. For example, if an employee normally works eight hours per day, their Ramadan schedule becomes six hours per day. Employers are free to decide how these reduced hours are structured, whether through earlier closing times, split shifts, or flexible scheduling, as long as the total daily working time does not exceed the adjusted limit. The regulation aims to strike a balance between religious observance and business continuity, particularly in sectors such as retail, logistics, and hospitality that experience fluctuating demand during the holy month. Exemptions and Special Sectors While the two-hour reduction is mandatory, certain categories of workers may be exempt due to the nature of their roles. These typically include: Security personnel Healthcare workers Public utility staff Hospitality and tourism employees Transport and logistics workers In these sectors, companies may continue to operate full shifts if required for operational reasons. However, employees working beyond the reduced Ramadan hours are entitled to overtime compensation in accordance with labor law. MOHRE has emphasized that any exemptions must still respect employee rights, including rest periods and overtime pay. Employers cannot use Ramadan exemptions as a reason to impose excessive working hours without compensation. Overtime Rules During Ramadan Overtime regulations remain in effect during Ramadan, just as they do throughout the rest of the year. If an employee works more than the reduced daily hours, that additional time qualifies as overtime and must be compensated accordingly. Under UAE labor law: Overtime pay must be at least 25% higher than the normal hourly wage. If overtime occurs between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., compensation must be increased by at least 50%, unless the employee works in shift-based roles such as hospitality or security. Employees cannot be required to work more than two extra hours per day, except in cases where preventing significant business loss is necessary. This ensures that workers who continue to operate critical services during Ramadan are fairly rewarded for the additional burden. Remote Work and Flexible Arrangements In recent years, many private companies have adopted flexible working arrangements during Ramadan, including remote work, hybrid schedules, and staggered shifts. While not legally required, these practices have become increasingly common and are encouraged by government authorities as a way to support work-life balance. Some employers allow staff to start earlier in the morning and leave before afternoon heat and traffic peak times, while others introduce split shifts that accommodate prayer times and Iftar preparation. Human resource specialists note that productivity often remains stable during Ramadan when flexible policies are applied thoughtfully. Reduced working hours combined with clear performance expectations can lead to higher morale and stronger employee loyalty. Penalties for Non-Compliance MOHRE has warned that companies failing to implement the reduced working hours or denying overtime compensation may face administrative penalties and inspections. Employees who believe their rights have been violated can file a complaint through MOHRE’s hotline or digital platforms. Authorities regularly conduct inspections during Ramadan to ensure that businesses adhere to labor regulations and that employee welfare is protected. Private Sector vs Public Sector It is important to distinguish between private and public sector rules. While both sectors benefit from reduced hours, government entities typically announce separate official working schedules that may include shorter daily hours or extended weekend breaks. Private sector companies must follow MOHRE guidelines rather than public sector announcements, which often leads to confusion among employees working for multinational firms. Cultural and Business Impact Ramadan brings significant changes to workplace culture across the UAE. Meetings are often scheduled earlier in the day, business lunches are replaced with evening gatherings, and productivity rhythms adjust to accommodate fasting and prayer. For many companies, Ramadan is also a period of increased corporate social responsibility, with initiatives such as charity drives, community iftars, and employee support programs becoming more visible. Looking Ahead As the UAE continues to modernize its labor framework, Ramadan working hour regulations remain a cornerstone of employee protection and religious accommodation. The two-hour reduction, combined with overtime safeguards and flexible work policies, reflects a legal system that balances economic activity with cultural respect. For employees, understanding these rules helps ensure fair treatment during the holy month. For employers, compliance is not only a legal requirement but also an opportunity to foster goodwill and maintain a motivated workforce. With proper planning and adherence to regulations, Ramadan in the UAE can remain a period of both productivity and reflection — a unique blend of professional responsibility and spiritual observance.
By Fiaz Ahmed 8 days ago in The Swamp
