The Achilles Heel: Nuclear Disaster in Japan

Japan’s nuclear disaster, following a horrifying tsunami and devastating earthquake of major proportions, depicts a series of tragic events that represents a wake-up call to the rest of the world.

One must acknowledge the reality that no country in the world, is exempt from adverse effects that result from violent acts of nature. The reality that some parts of the world are more prone to natural disasters is something that no one can refute.

At the same time, global technological advances are still imperfect, at best. When combined with natural disasters, like earthquakes and tsunamis, their degree of imperfection becomes increasingly evident. Their infallibility is tested. It is a time when their Achilles heel or weakest link, is exposed. 

This is also true in terms of global, nuclear energy production and distribution.

In Japan, nuclear energy technology is imperfect, too. Whether this disaster would have happened without the intervention of the adverse effects of nature is subject to speculation.  

What can we, as concerned, compassionate and caring human beings, do or learn from this?

Is it possible to prevent a similar disaster from occurring elsewhere in the world?

The world as a whole, appears to be relatively helpless in terms of actual intervention. The scenario in Japan is destined to run its own unique course. Those involved in global scientific technology will continue to offer appropriate solutions for this dilemma.    

Beyond the realm of human imperfection, there always lies the possibility of divine intervention in world events. Of course, there are people all around the world, who will choose to refute this.

One might question whether humankind is exceeding the bounds of human power, by playing in the nuclear energy realm. Is humankind trying to emulate the role of the divine in its quest for power? 

While events continue to unfold in Japan, true believers everywhere are encouraged to continue to offer ongoing prayers for the resolution of the nuclear disaster, as well as for the people and the country of Japan, adversely affected by the tsunami and earthquake. 

A tragic scenario, like the disaster that is happening in Japan, may serve as a warning or a reprimand to humankind, one of a large enough nature that it causes people all around the world, to wake up and take notice. It is a wake-up call.

How to Talk With Your Children About the Disaster n Japan: Talking Openly With Your Children

“How do I talk to my children about the disaster in Japan?” is a question that many concerned parents may have, at this time. They may also ask, “Is it better to remain silent?”

Should parents talk to their children about natural disasters, like the one in Japan or is silence a better option? Have you, as a concerned parent, thought about it?

During the time of any national disaster like the one unfolding in Japan, children can be frightened, as they do not know or understand the events that are taking place. It is important for them to feel loved and safe, when they are aware that something not good is happening, where they live or elsewhere in the world.

Thus, it is important for you to talk to them. Do not panic. Be aware that if you panic, your children may sense it and panic, too.

Children need to communicate with their parents about every aspect of their lives. They should be encouraged to talk openly to you about the disaster in Japan, in order to convey to you, their own personal feelings, thoughts and concerns.

What are they fearful of with respect to this particular disaster?

The words you use to talk to your children about the disaster in Japan are important. They should be simple, but reflect your care, concern and compassion for those whose lives are adversely affected. They should also convey a message of love and hope.

Your words should not convey fear. Avoid expressing helplessness, hopelessness, anger, despair, depression or adverse thoughts and feelings regarding the senselessness of natural disasters, like the one in Japan.

As parents, ask yourself, what your children already know about the disaster in Japan. By entering into a dialogue with them, you will be able relate to their level of knowledge, as well as expand their body of knowledge, in such a way that they can understand and accept natural disasters. An event, like this one, can teach children how to cope with other natural disasters elsewhere around the world, as well.

What details about the disaster in Japan, should you as parents, discuss with your children?

There is basic need to know information that parents should discuss with their children, but they do not need to know the details of every event that is occurring in Japan, as this could be traumatizing.

Children should have basic knowledge about earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as the implications of them, for the people living in the affected area.

As parents, you may choose to discuss the short and long-term implications of nuclear disasters with your children. How much detail you give them depends upon what you, as parents, feel they need to know.   

Remember that children are resilient and sometimes, more so than adults. Mentally, children will sort through what you tell them in such a way that they are able to cope with it. If there is evidence of not coping, manifested in terms of crying, fighting or arguing, immediate intervention may be necessary to calm their fears.   

One cannot deny the reality that the current disaster in Japan is extremely traumatizing for everyone, old and young. It is adversely affecting the lives of thousands of people, including both adults and children in the affected area, as well as many other people in Japan. The effects of this disaster extend much further, including those who have family and friends in the immediate area, elsewhere in Japan and outside the country.

Perhaps you and your children live outside the area, but you feel that everyone is adversely affected. You are correct in the assumption that a natural disaster of this magnitude can touch and change the lives of millions of people around the world, in one way or another.     

Global events including natural disasters should be discussed with children, as eventually, they will learn about them from someone at school or from their friends. Your own credibility as a parent is at stake, if you do not talk to your children about natural disasters like this one. Finding out about a disaster from someone else may not be good for your children. If you feel that you are not qualified or able to address this concern with your children, it may be possible to have someone else discuss it with them. 

It is important not to traumatize your children when you tell them what has occurred in Japan and what is still happening there. Begin with a minimum number of facts. When they begin to ask questions, discuss the topics they bring up.    

As parents, it may not be easy for you talk to your children about the disaster in Japan, particularly if you are in a state of emotional shock, as the result of having family members or friends living there. Let your children know that you are concerned about someone in particular, so that they do not feel excluded. They may be concerned about a Japanese friend or family, too.

Remember that your children have likely been watching the recent events in Japan on television and are still watching the current events unfolding there. They are also observing the reactions of others, all around the globe.  

Your children will have observed how you reacted or responded to the events that have occurred and will continue to observe how you are reacting to the events that are still unfolding. How you react may be the determining factor, with regard to how they react.  

How you talk to your children will depend upon your degree of involvement. To what extent is your immediate or extended family involved or affected? It is important that you relate vital information to your children, but do so appropriately.

The age of your children is a determining factor with respect to what you tell them. Your first instinct will be to protect them. This is an appropriate response to any tragic event. Remember that the protection of children is necessary, at all times.

Very young children will not understand what is happening in Japan, while school age children will have acquired some basic knowledge and information. Older children will have more knowledge than they can understand and may begin to ask questions. If you, as a parent, cannot answer their questions, make certain that they know that you will help them find the answers.

What you tell your children should be age appropriate, in conjunction with their communication level. 

School age children will know what earthquakes and tsunamis are, even if they do not understand all the implications. As parents, you might initiate a discussion on the benefits of nuclear energy, as well as what a nuclear disaster implies. The degree of education that you and your children have attained will help to determine what you tell your children.

You could familiarize your children with Japan and Japanese culture, if you have not done so already. Locate Japan on a world map, in relation to where you and other family members are in respect to the disaster area. 

The seriousness of major concerns in a natural disaster, like the one in Japan, should not be 

understated or hidden. Children should have access to this kind of knowledge, but always convey it to them gently.  

Your personal knowledge or general family knowledge about the disaster in Japan may vary to some degree. Family members should be encouraged to share accurate subjective and objective information. A knowledge-based approach to a disaster is preferable to a non-knowledge based approach.

Your personal relationship to your children is important. Do not say anything that will create a breach of trust between you and them. Your truth, honesty and sincerity, will help them to understand and appreciate you as parents, as well as give them some understanding of their potential family role in world events.

Your personal level of care, concern and compassion for others is important to your children. What they say or do will reflect this in years to come. Your personal belief system as parents or as a single parent is important. “God help us all,” gives children the option of calling upon God, for His divine intervention and assistance.

Perhaps you and your children will become actively involved in a project that benefits children in Japan. Active participation may be the best way to talk to your children about any disaster and can lead to a healthier attitude regarding disasters in general.  

Is silence really an option? It may not necessarily be the best one. Talk openly and freely to your children about the disaster in Japan, as well as other disasters around the world.

Treatment for Depression in the Workplace: Resolution of Workplace Depression

What is the key to treatment for depression in the workplace?  Is there one secret that company owners and/or employees can discover with respect to the prevention, treatment and resolution of depression in the workplace? Treatment for depression in the workplace is extremely important for everyone.  

The nature of depression is such that it is not always immediately evident in any workplace. It often appears like a foreboding, dark cloud that hovers over people who are trying to work and infiltrates every part of their daily work, as well as their lives. Depression may also appear as a mask that people wear to conceal their real thoughts and feelings, from others in the workplace.  

Obtaining proper treatment for depression in the workplace can be an important factor in determining the productivity of a company, as well as that of the employer and one, or more of the employees. Ultimately, treatment of depression in the workplace can be or become crucial in determining the success or failure of a company.  

Depression in the workplace is far more common than most people realize and includes both employers and employees.

Health care workers and safety experts may be able to identify depression in the workplace immediately. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Sometimes, it remains undiscovered, until it is too late.   

Employers can be depressed for many reasons. This often has to do with financial concerns involving company ownership, management and transition related to modernization and thus, associated with high levels of stress, anxiety and tension.

Employees can be depressed for many different reasons, too. They may not always recognize depression as a factor that affects their employment. At times, employees may not comprehend or perceive the reality that the owner of the company they work for is functioning in a state of depression. Whether they are aware of it or not, this affects them adversely.  

Invariably company owners and employees carry concerns and issues from home, to work. Not every kind of depression is work-related. Each person brings personal baggage and it can contribute to his or her state of depression, as well as that of others. For example, at home, there may be marital conflict and family concerns like childcare, income, housing and transportation. There may also be health-related problems. 

Most employees do not want to lose their jobs and may keep these under cover. Inwardly, the employee may be depressed, while outwardly, he or she wears a smile.       

Depression often distorts and masks numerous concerns or issues in the workplace. Normally, these can be resolved in a safe, healthy and humane manner. Minor issues can turn into major issues, if they become magnified or distorted. Frustration and anger can invade the workplace and a sense of hopelessness and helplessness may prevail.    

Depression can be a fatal mask that both the owner and the employees wear at times, because they do not want to reveal their depression to one another. In fact, they may try to hide it, subconsciously or consciously knowing that it does affect others adversely. It can lead to suicidal tendencies or incidences of suicide. 

What are some of the causes of depression in the workplace?

Factors in the environment one works in, can cause people to become depressed.

For example, depression can be the result of poor lighting, inadequate ventilation, extreme temperatures, fumes, dust or other allergens. Having to work with equipment that is obsolete, unsafe or something that malfunctions unexpectedly can be frustrating. Overcrowding in a work place can cause added tension and stress. So can working in an environment where one or many people are not adequately trained or qualified. Heavy workloads, having to work too many hours or not enough hours can be related factors.  

Perhaps one of the keys to treatment for depression in the workplace lies in the recognition and acknowledgement that a potential or actual problem, exists. If it is not recognized or acknowledged, it is not likely to be resolved either.

Treatment of depression en masse, in a company, may require a revision of basic employment standards and policies, a project in which employers and employees can participate.

Honesty has a lot to do with depression, as many employers and employees can sense when honesty does not prevail. For example, the truth about pending closure of a company may go undisclosed to employees by their employers, in an attempt to prevent anger, frustration and depression. When there is honesty, employees know what they are dealing with and can prepare for it, ahead of time.

Having one or two disgruntled employers or employees can result in mass depression of all of the employees, as this kind of attitude spreads like wildfire. Resolving it may entail measures that appear unfair to the disgruntled employees, like removal from that particular area of work or dismissal, but doing so may change the entire employer/employee atmosphere for the better, almost immediately.

Unions may be able to resolve issues that cause depression. Ideally, when there are serious environmental concerns in the workplace, these need to be resolved as soon as possible. Different strategies that include both the employer and the employees can help to bring about effective resolution of environmental concerns.

The fluctuating state of the economy has a lot to do with depression in the workplace. While employers and employees feel a sense of helplessness and hopelessness, talking about it together on a regular basis, allows people to vent their thoughts and feelings. For example, something as simple as a rise in the price of gasoline can result in employer or employee anger, frustration and depression. Establishing company discounts can be helpful.

A team or buddy system can be effective with respect to treating depression in the workplace, as each person has someone to relate to, instead of merely internalizing his or her depression.

There is no such thing as mass, medical treatment of depression in the workplace, with anti-depressant medication, although the current trend is to attempt to treat everything and everyone with pills. Pills may be beneficial in some instances, but not in every situation. The use of anti-depressants for depressed workers is not advisable, as there can be adverse side effects. Medication can affect any worker’s ability to function safely.     

Anyone in a workplace who is manifesting continual, severe symptoms of depression should seek professional, medical guidance, as he or she may suffer a chemical imbalance like that found in mental disorders like schizophrenia. If, or when, the source of the problem is located for one patient, health and safety consultants may discover contributing factors that affect others too.

PubMedHealth describes depression as “feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps” something that affects everyone at one time or another, while “true clinical depression” is “a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with everyday life for a long period of time.” (1)  

This kind of depression can interfere with one’s ability to function at work.

The excessive use of nicotine, alcohol or other substance abuse with resulting addiction can trigger depression. Because social factors are involved, this can adversely affect many employers and employees. Rehabilitation and support groups for individuals and their families prove to be beneficial.

Regular healthy, socialization programs for employers and employees, can help to boost company morale and increase enthusiasm, confidence and happiness. Ongoing motivation that includes a bonus, a reward of some kind or recognition is important.

Effective communication among employers and employees reduces the likelihood of depression in the workplace and improves company morale. (2)  

Treatment of depression in the workplace is not always easy, or even possible. There are times when situations and circumstances that lead to depression in a workplace are not changeable and the problems cannot be resolved. Identifying, acknowledging and dealing with causes of depression, in a suitable manner, can help to bring about resolution. If the causes are life threatening, employers and employees should consider safety first.      

Ongoing training or re-training programs encourage employers and employees to stay updated in terms of technological advances, reducing the level of depression in a workplace. So do extra-curricular activities, like sports or competitions.

Remember that busy people are usually happier people.

Practicing happiness regardless of one’s circumstances is a good starting point, with regard to overcoming depression. Music, art and other creative activities bring joy into a workplace, as do fun, good humor and laughter, which collectively may prove to be the best treatment of all, for workplace stress, anxiety and depression.

Why Asking for Help is a Strength and Not a Weakness: Asking is an Art

To understand why asking for help is a strength and not a weakness, it is important to see asking as an art, one that we continually learn and develop, throughout our entire lives.

Even as infants, we know that asking achieves results. Initially, we ask our mothers for what infants need, want and desire. In children, the art of asking becomes more refined. The horizons of asking expand to include our fathers, family members and others, as we learn to ask for what children need, want and desire.   

Thus, from early infancy onward, to ask is to receive, at least in our mind’s eye.

We soon come to realize that there are things for which we cannot ask. There are also things that we cannot receive until or unless, we ask for them. Even then, we do not always receive what we ask for and learn to respond accordingly. Sometimes, our response is positive, but it may be negative in other instances.

We continue to learn how to ask as older children, teenagers and adults, of all ages. In fact, we tend to get better and better at asking for what we need, want and desire. We gradually refine our asking skills. We may even try to ask in a way that is demanding, aggressive or abusive, which is not necessarily appropriate and may result in a reprimand.

We ask whether we are believers or unbelievers. Asking is a well-known, Biblical concept. As children of God, knowing our own inadequacies, we may need to re-learn how to ask, based upon Biblical principles of asking God to meet our needs, wants and desires.      

“Ask and ye shall receive.” Matthew 7:7 (1)

It takes courage for us to ask for anything, particularly when we have to ask in blind faith. Asking for the impossible at times, we trust God to let His divine will prevail in our minds, hearts and lives. He alone works in the realm of the impossible.  

We ask, knowing that we may receive no, as our answer from God. We become aware that have to submit to His divine will, regardless of what we ask for, at any particular time.

Asking can be a humbling experience, because when we ask, we have to humble ourselves before God, acknowledging our own shortcomings, as we seek higher wisdom and guidance from Him. It can be humbling to admit our weaknesses, as well as to ask others for anything.

Asking is often, but not always perceived as a weakness from a worldly perspective, as everyone has to ask for something, at one time or another. Being afraid to ask is a weakness, even to an unbeliever.   

As parents and teachers, we teach our children to become independent, so that they do not have to ask for what they need. In some ways, we may be teaching them not to ask and then, when they do ask for something, we may regard it as weakness on their part. For example, with respect to a teen who is asking for money, when he or she should already be financially independent, asking may be perceived as a weakness.        

Asking, we expect to receive; we do not expect not to receive what we ask for. Perhaps we should always allow for the possibility of not receiving what we ask for, but when we do not receive, we may become angry and take out our frustration on others. Then, we may wind up needing to ask for forgiveness from them and from God. 

Asking invariably carries an inherent, potential rejection factor.

We ask for jobs and expect to receive them. We ask for bank loans and expect to receive them. We ask others to be our spouses and expect a positive response, that we do not always receive. The rejection of others may be devastating to us.

Dealing with rejection is difficult for everyone, perhaps one of the hardest things that people have to deal with, but in the end, we learn how to handle rejection.

Asking is an art in itself. There are good ways to ask and not so good ways, not to ask. We quickly learn that using a good way to ask for something, often achieves much better results. In other words, asking in an emotionally healthy way is better than asking in a way that is not.  

Believing that to ask is to receive, is a positive, powerful strength. Sometimes, it takes strength to receive what we ask for. Not to receive may be regarded as a lack of faith with regard to what we believe.

In conclusion, let us suggest that in terms of Norman Vincent Peele’s book, “The Power of Positive Thinking,” (2) asking would be regarded as a positive, making it a strength, while not asking would be a negative or a weakness.

Asking takes a lot of courage at times, so always be strong and ask God in faith, for what you need, want and desire and expect to receive it. Remember to give Him thanks.    

1. http://www.topical-bible-studies.org/07-0007.htm

2. http://normanvincentpeale.wwwhubs.com/

How High Unemployment is Affecting the Unemployed: The Pessimist Versus the Optimist

Current events that led to high rates of unemployment in any area can have a positive or a negative affect on the unemployed who live and work there. At the same time, unemployment can change people’s lives, for better or for worse.

“The best thing that could possibly have happened to me was becoming unemployed!” is the typical attitude of the optimist.    

“The worst thing that could possibly have happened to me was becoming unemployed!” is the typical reaction of the pessimist.

How people respond to unemployment, in conjunction with the reality of high unemployment in any area, can determine how it will affect their lives. No two people who become unemployed respond in exactly the same way; nor should they be expected to do so.

Unemployment rate is “the percentage of the work force that is unemployed at any given date.”

Rates of unemployment tend to vary from one place to another, as well as seasonally. For example, tourism is seasonal employment and as such, may be at its highest rate in the summer months and decrease at other times of the year, unless there are other, more seasonal-oriented activities.  

A high unemployment rate in an area suggests that the percentage of unemployed people exceeds normal, expected or anticipated levels.

Note that unemployment rates fluctuate on a day-to-day basis, in every part of the world. There is no race, creed or culture exempt from high unemployment, at one time or another. Because of ongoing, global economic shifts, unemployment rates may be predictable to some extent, but that is not always the case. The unexpected always happens.     

“I am unemployed!” initially comes as a shock to anyone who loses his or her job. Even anticipated unemployment in areas of high unemployment, can trigger a shock-like reaction. “I knew it was coming, but I did not really believe it would happen to me! Multiply this many times over and a whole community can be in a state of shock.  

“What do I do? Help!” is often the first reaction of unemployed individuals. For others, “What can I do?” opens the possibility of new horizons of inquiry, in terms of self-help. “Can I create my own employment?”

The unemployed are not all pessimists. Some are optimists, who take immediate action on their own and attempt to create different kinds of employment using their existing skill sets, in order to generate ongoing income for themselves and others.

“I have some time off!”

There are those who have worked many, long hours and sudden unemployment presents a break in routine for them. They are happy to be unemployed, particularly when they know it is only temporary and that their jobs will still exist in the future. For them, it can be like having an unexpected holiday. It is a time to rest, travel and visit family for friends. That works great when their income continues at the same level or close to it, regardless of high unemployment levels in the area.

“Now, I can finally do some of the things that I always wanted to do.”

Unfortunately, that is not always the case. High unemployment rates in certain areas may signify the loss of significant income for many individuals, families and communities. Job loss for even one person can affect the lives of many others. Forced early retirement may be a factor for some of those who are not ready to retire.

Base survival often depends upon dealing with the reality of unemployment in a positive, constructive and 

realistic way.  

Sometimes, high unemployment in an area leads to a waiting game for the unemployed, as some people continue to wake up each morning, wondering if that particular day will prove to be better in terms of employment and they may be disappointed when nothing happens.

Many unemployed people expect that some kind of employment will come to them, at some time or in an unexpected way. High unemployment rates in the area may make that unlikely. Some unemployed people remain hopeful with regard to the possibility of change for the better in terms of employment, even when unemployment rates are high.

“I have excellent technological skills and someone, somewhere, will find me and recognize that I would be a good fit in their organization.”

A community may suggest, “Others need our services.”

Some who are unemployed tend to be more proactive and go out to find employment. They will seek whatever they can find to do in terms of jobs, wherever, regardless of whether it means separation from families or friends and moving to new areas. Some people head for places where employment levels are higher or make major moves to different countries. Mass migration can occur due to high unemployment levels.

“I will be re-trained for a higher paying job,” is something that any unemployed person, may expect in areas of high unemployment. In situations like this, there can be a sense of hope and high expectation. At times, these people may have to seek re-training, as it does not automatically come to them. There may be government incentive programs offered to the unemployed.

Unemployment can affect the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health of many people in areas of high unemployment. Latent illnesses may begin to surface, when there is a sense of helplessness or hopelessness. Health problems that have seemed to be relatively unimportant when employed, may suddenly reappear, because of the fear and insecurity of high unemployment levels.

On the other hand, there are those who suddenly become unemployed and choose to take advantage of the opportunity to spend their time, improving their health, by getting involved in more physical activities like recreational programs or doing more things at home, like gardening. Some who are unemployed will take on lesser paying jobs or even menial jobs, just to stay employed in some way. Sometimes, there is role reversal at home, when there is unemployment.

Hobbies and pastimes often fill the empty hours of many people who have become unemployed in areas of high unemployment. Reading, camping, cycling, fishing or hiking, may be the kinds of things they have always wanted to do, but have never had the time to do. Some unemployed people will return to school in high unemployment areas, even if it means taking out student loans to do so. Entrepreneurs may attempt to establish new business ventures and seek small business training programs.

Job searching online, filling out paperwork, sending or delivering endless resumes, sometimes seems like a hopeless proposition, particularly in areas of high unemployment. Some unemployed people will travel from company to company, seeking job interviews, employment counseling or answers to their employment problems, in regions where unemployment levels are high. They know that someone who is there at the right time, is more likely to obtain a job than someone who simply submits a resume.

One might suggest that whatever the unemployed choose to do, will ultimately determine their futures, at least to some extent. There are always variables to consider in high unemployment areas.

Maintaining a positive, constructive attitude to unemployment, places this kind of a situation in the position of being a possible building block, rather than an obstacle encumbering people’s lives. For example, those living in areas of high unemployment may choose to initiate new community projects, because the people needed to carry them out are currently unemployed and available.  

An eternal optimist will suggest that there is always something that the unemployed can do, even in areas of high unemployment or learn to do over time, while a pessimist would invariably negate every possibility of employment.

The Impact of Night Shift on Your Health: On Understanding Circadian Rhythm and Your Body Clock

Do you know that you have an internal body clock and anything that affects it may have an impact on what is happening in your body and thus, your health, also?

“Circadian Rhythms, the Chinese Clock and How To Live in Sync” (1) is an interesting and informative web site that discusses an Eastern, Chinese medicine approach to understanding the impact of night shift work on your health.

Do you work night shift some or all of the time? If so, then this concerns you.

Many people, forced to work night shift, do so because such is the nature of their jobs. Others choose to work night shift and may do so, for the better part of their working lives.

This includes health care professionals and non-professionals, police officers, firemen, air controllers, security guards and many others, whose services are required during the night for different reasons, in every country of the world. Many of these employees are partly or fully aware that working night shift can affect their health adversely, as well as the health status of other family members. Husbands and wives may try to maintain the same hours of sleep that their spouses have. When their sleep patterns are not normal, children’s health may be adversely affected.  Other people may work two or three different shifts, alternating from one shift to another and work night shift only part of the time.

Continually changing shifts can be disruptive to one’s life and family life. This causes health problems, as well.
What kinds of health concerns arise when people work night shift?

“Issues such as alcohol abuse, poor sleep, insomnia, depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and bipolar disorder have ties to disruptions in the circadian rhythms.” (2)

This is only the tip of the iceberg with regard to what may happen when people work night shift.

What are circadian rhythms?

While most westerners comprehend the Eastern, philosophical concepts of yin and yang, they may not be familiar with the circadian rhythms of the body or body clock, which is a biological clock.

Why are circadian rhythms important?

Ongoing research suggests there is increasing evidence to suggest disrupting one’s body clock and circadian rhythms can have a potential adverse effect on the human body, thus, a negative impact on a person’s health, as well. 

Chad Dupuis, (3) the founder of the Yin Yang House, suggests,

“Our bodies have a number of processes that happen at regular intervals, throughout the day. We respond to light and dark, hot and cold, and other natural polarities - in effect yin and yang. (4)

The diagram on his website reveals what some of the body processes are, as well as when these processes take place over a twenty-four hour period. A disruption of the processes can lead to dysfunction of the body systems involved. Remember what affects one part of the body will ultimately affect other parts of the human body.

“Western medicine uses the term "circadian rhythms" to describe these processes and the changes that happen internally in response to our environment.”  (5)

The expression circadian rhythm is a western term.

“While researchers do not yet understand all of the rhythms and their effects, we are beginning to explore the relationship between disruptions in these rhythms and the development of illness. More obvious issues that arise such as jet lag are well known, but psychological issues, digestive problems, insomnia and fatigue among others may be related as well.” (6)

Most people have experienced jet lag at one time, or another. You know how exhausted a person can feel after taking a long trip on an airplane. At times, it takes several days for that kind of exhaustion to disappear.  

“The circadian rhythms are controlled by our body's master clock or what is known as the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN).” (7)

We don’t usually think about our bodies as being controlled by a master clock.

“With regards to the circadian rhythms the master clock (or SCN from above) is controlled by the hypothalamus.” (8)

The Tam Healing System, (9) used by Chad Dupuis, with respect to treatment and regulation of body clocks and circadian rhythm disorders may prove beneficial, but he also acknowledges the reality that further research into these kinds of illnesses is still needed. 

If you are a person who is working night shift and you are suffering poor health, it is advisable to contact your family doctor. Perhaps the medical problem can be resolved by working different shifts, like days and evenings, working three shifts instead of only night shift or working only day shift.

We are unique individuals who function exactly as we are supposed to function and learning more about our own biological clocks, in conjunction with our circadian rhythms, is one more way to resolve health-related issues and concerns.

1. http://www.yinyanghouse.com/practitioner_members/general-lifestyle/circadian-rhythms-chinese-clock-and-how-live-sync

2. Ibid.

3. http://www.yinyanghouse.com/user/2

4. Op. Cit.

5. Ibid.

6. Ibid.

7. Ibid.

8. Ibid.

9. Ibid.  

The Kingdom of Heaven: Heaven, the Heavens and the Kingdom of Heaven

What is the kingdom of heaven like? Is it possible that heaven and the heavens are the same as the kingdom of heaven?

Are these expressions interchangeable or used interchangeably?

Most people have an idealistic vision of what the kingdom of heaven is like. What the features of the kingdom of heaven are will always be subject to individual, subjective interpretations of the Scriptures.

Those who know about the kingdom of heaven want to go there. Will it be any different from our present life?

Turn to the Christian source of information about the kingdom of heaven in the Holy Bible.

Everyone who contemplates the kingdom of heaven has expectations that it will fulfill their hopes and dreams. Is the kingdom of heaven a realm beyond the world that we know?

While there are those who attempt to envision the best things about heaven, we do not know what they are; nor do we know much about the poignant characteristics of heaven. Will it be easy to enter into the kingdom of heaven?

That question, we may be able to answer.

The Holy Bible speaks about three realms namely heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven. Can we comprehend the concept of the kingdom of heaven on its own, apart from heaven or the heavens? Each realm appears to be separate, unique and different.

The King James Version of the Holy Bible (1) will be the source of information about heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven, but there are different versions of the King James Bible. (2)

Learning about each realm individually raises questions that lead to unexpected answers.   

Look at this account of creation from Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Compare the two verses from the first chapter, which offers a comparison between heaven and the heavens.    

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” Genesis 1:1

“And God called the firmament heaven.” Genesis 1:8

There is a realm known as heaven and a separate realm called the heavens. The heavens appear to be separate from the earth and heaven is the firmament.

How are we to understand heaven? Is this a word, a concept or a place?  

Most people are familiar with the word heaven. We have a vague idea about heaven as a concept. We speculate in faith about heaven being a place where believers go after death.

How do we understand the heavens? Is that a word, a concept or a place? 

We have an understanding of the heavens, because we see the sun, moon and stars. We assign the heavens a place in the sky. The heavens appear to be an all-encompassing expression, rather than just a word. We ponder the truth about the creation of the heavens.  

In this part of Genesis, there is no mention of the kingdom of heaven.

Is the kingdom of heaven a word, a concept or a place? Where does one find the initial use of the word kingdom? The kingdom of heaven does not appear to be part of heaven or the heavens, as described in Genesis. 

Which realm is the most real, heaven, the heavens or the kingdom of heaven?  

The reality of heaven has been questioned by man since creation. The heavens appear real because we see them. The kingdom of heaven appears to be an expression, or a concept, while some regard it as a place.  

What is the difference between heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven?

When we find the answer, the initial inquiry about the kingdom of heaven may be resolved. 

In Genesis 1:7, the word firmament expresses separation or division, as it divides “the waters from the waters”. There is water under the firmament, as well as above the firmament, but the upper or higher part of the firmament is heaven.

According to this ancient, historical account, heaven is a distinct realm, apart from the earth.

In Genesis 1:14, there are “lights in the firmament of the heavens”, that provide light to the earth. The heavens are not a realm of darkness.

The light in the firmament of the heavens divides day from night and helps man determine the signs, seasons, days and years. God placed a greater light (the sun) and a lesser light (the moon), as well as the stars, in the firmament. Genesis 1:18 tells us that these lights “rule over the day and over the night” and “divide the light from darkness”.

Accounts of creation vary with versions of the Bible. Each person has unique interpretation of the Bible and an understanding of creation. In interpretations, there may not always be revelation, but there is division. Division of perception with regard to heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven continues throughout the generations, as God reveals Himself only to some.

How do those in the Old Testament portray heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven?

When does the concept of kingdom initially appear in the Bible?

In Exodus 19, verses 5 and 6, God speaks to Moses. “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to me above all people; for all the earth is mine. And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”

Those who become part of the kingdom of God obey His voice and keep His covenant. Note that this suggests, a kingdom of priests and a holy nation and not the kingdom of heaven.

How do others portray heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven?

Psalm 1 acknowledges a distinction between the righteous, who believe in God and follow His divine Law or the Ten Commandments, and the ungodly, or unrighteous, who reject Him and His Law.

Psalm 2 compares God as the Lord or King, who “sits in the heavens” to the ungodly kings of earth. The central concern is righteousness versus unrighteousness.  

What happens later in the Old Testament?

In Psalm 14, a Psalm of David, states, “The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God.” Psalm 14:2

Heaven is God’s dwelling place, while human beings live on earth. God is looking for those who seek to know Him, as they are His people.

How does the New Testament portray the different realms? More importantly, how do John and Jesus portray heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven?

Matthew 3:2 introduces us to the kingdom of heaven through the words of John the Baptist, who states, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

The kingdom of heaven is not just heaven, the place where God dwells, but repentance makes the kingdom of heaven accessible to humankind on earth. This does not negate heaven as the secret place where God dwells, or the heavens that humankind sees.

It does call humankind individually and collectively, to give account for their actions.

At the baptism of Jesus, Matthew 3:17, the Holy Bible records, “And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased.”

Human beings heard God speaking. Thus, we too, can expect to hear the voice of God from heaven.

Matthew 4 makes a comparison between “the kingdom of heaven” and “the kingdoms of the world.”

In Matthew 4:17, Jesus reinforces the words of John stating, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

No longer is the kingdom of heaven out of man’s reach.

In the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:13, Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

In Matthew 5:10, He states, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Jesus, states, in Matthew 5:12, “great is your reward in heaven,” again distinguishing heaven from the kingdom of heaven.

In Matthew 5:16, Jesus suggests, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

In Matthew 5:17 Jesus distinguishes between “heaven and earth”.

In Matthew 5:19, He distinguishes between those who are destined to be “the least in the kingdom of heaven” and the “great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Entering the kingdom of heaven is contingent upon righteousness.

Matthew 5:34 refers to heaven as “God’s throne”, in contrast to the earth in Matthew 5:35, which is “His footstool”.

In Matthew 6:9, Jesus instructs His people how to pray, saying, “Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your name, your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

He attributes the kingdom of heaven to God, in Matthew 6:13. “For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.”

In Matthew 6:18, Jesus refers to heaven as “a secret place”.

In Matthew 6:20, He advises His followers, “Do not lay up for your selves treasures on earth,” but instead, in Matthew 6:21, “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” Matthew 6:33

In Matthew 7:21, Jesus suggests saying “Lord, Lord,” does not give one access to the kingdom of heaven, but rather “he who does the will of my Father” enters.

Later, we read the account of the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. He is with God in His heavenly realm, in heaven. It is His righteousness not ours, that guarantees us a place in heaven with Him. We enter by believing in His divine act of salvation. 

In conclusion, Scriptural evidence supports heaven, the heavens and the kingdom of heaven. They are distinct realms united by the Holy Spirit. Heaven is God’s secret realm. The heavens we see with the naked eye. The kingdom of heaven is where the outworking of God’s love is manifest to humankind.

The kingdom of heaven is the realm on earth, where humankind comes to know the truth.  

Perhaps the beauty of the heavens gives a glimpse into heaven, even though it remains an unknown realm. 

We know the kingdom of heaven on earth, as we experience the outworking of God’s Holy Spirit, through His divine love shown to us, by others.            

Heaven will be perfect. Would God have anything less than that for His dwelling place?

1. http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/ 

Please note that the Biblical references in this article are from Holy Bible, Containing the Old and New Testaments, The New King James Version (Red Letter Edition), The Open Bible Expanded Edition, Thomas Nelson Publishers Inc., Nashville 1982

2. http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/1611-Bible/