Shopily 27 October 2022

PART OF

Essence of Islam

~ Irshad Soofi

You can also have multiple aspects of a society that are out of sync. If we look at the world around us, if we look at the natural world, what’s most notable about it is order. There is order in the world and people can deny it but any casual observer over a period of time can see it.

For instance, we enter into spring, which is a season that comes every year. There is a cosmic event that occurs when our planet reaches a certain point in its orbit around the sun, and because of the tilt of our plan et in relation to the sun.

That the tree is in is a state of submission to the natural order. And so that’s why it’s in a peaceful state; it is not conflicted in itself nor is it conflicted with the environment around it and if I come and I chop down the tree, then obviously, I’m changing the state that that tree was in and if I do it for no reason, then it’s really a criminal act against nature.

We have these four seasons as we move around the sun and there is an order so that trees know when to give fruit.

Eczema is not a rash "Even when its not there, even when you don't have a flare, you are thinking about the next time the flare is going to come and what can one do to prevent the flare - up. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis is a chronic recurring disease. This means that the disease is always present, even though flares may come and go. Skin with eczema is different from normal skin because it can't hold as much water in its top layer. The symptoms of eczema include dry, inflamed skin and intense itching. Times when the skin becomes inflamed, very itchy and red are called "flares" (or exacerbations). Many people who do not have eczema think of it as 'just a rash', but for millions of parents, children and their caregivers it is a frustrating persistent condition that can make their lives miserable. At times eczema can be so mild that it may not even be noticeable.

Eczema is not contagious, which means that it cannot be passed from person to person. Many children with eczema feel embarrassed by the look of their skin, the constant itching and sometimes leads to involuntary scratching. Eczema is clearly not life-threatening, but it certainly can be life affecting.

Where do Eczema symptoms appear?

Eczema tends to repeatedly affect the same areas of the body it where flares occur, but the affected areas may vary with the age of the person.

• In small children, eczema usually appears on the face elbows or knees and possibly on other areas of the body.

• In older children and adults, the rash tends to appear more behind the knees, inside the elbows, on the sides of the neck, on the wrists, ankles, hands and face.

Visible signs of Eczema

• Few scratch marks and very few small bumps

• Little or no thickening of the skin

• Persistent I uncontrollable itch and intense redness

• Extensive scratch marks, oozing, crusting and thickening of the skin.

What causes the skin to flare?

The cause of eczema of not fully understood. But we know of instance, that eczema can be triggered by:

• Dog or cat hair, dust or dust-mites, moulds and certain foods (milk, wheat, peanuts)

• Chemical irritants in cosmetics, moisturisers , air freshener, cleaning products and certain detergents

This

rendered by Dr Raj Singh, educating the community on skin disease.

is available for a consultation at his, Scottsville branch in Pietermaritzburg or at his Durban branch.

• Extremes in temperatures and humidity (such as cold dry conditions during the winter)

• Certain types of clothing (such as wool)

• Stress

When these trigger factors get into the lower layers of skin and eczema, the immune system misreads them as threats and then send immune cells to fight them. This overreaction of the immune system causes of eczema flare. Flares are unpredictable, so the best way to control eczema is to look after your skin, even when it is not flaring. Good skin care is an essential first step.

Everyday care

Use emollients every day to keep your skin healthy. Applying emollients regularly can help prevent the skin drying out and can be enough to control some mild cases of eczema.

DO

• Gently pat skin dry with soft towel - don't rub

• Use emollients as part of your daily routine and oils within 3 minutes of bathing

• Keep fingernails short to avoid breaking the skin when scratching

• Keep pets off beds and other furniture

• When possible, avoid extreme/rapid changes of temperature and activities that cause sweating

• Use protective coverings for pillows and mattresses

• Ask your pharmacist or doctor about cleansers, emollients and laundry detergents suitable for people with eczema.

• Keep a record of flares to discuss with your doctor.

• Consider having tiles instead of carpeting at home.

DONT

• Take a bath without using bath oils.

• Take long hot showers or baths.

Eczema

Only

and

Avoiding triggers alone may not be enough to prevent a flare. There is no cure for eczema, but there are many products that can relieve or stop the itch, reduce the redness, make your skin look healthy again, and help control your eczema to minimize its impact on your life.

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is saddened by news of the death of 1965 Comrades Winner, Bernard Gomersall. He passed away this past weekend.

90-year old Gomersall, a UK national who resided in the USA for the past nine years, became one of the few international runners to win The Ultimate Human Race, after breaking the tape in a rainy 1965 Comrades Marathon in a time of 5:51:09. He went on to amass another three medals which included two silver and a bronze.

On winning the race back then, he said, “My reaction to the 1965 Comrades Marathon win was two-fold - surprise and delight. Surprise that I had been lucky enough to win the greatest race in the world! Especially when you consider that only 18 months before that, I had won my first ever race over any distance. So I did not have a lot of experience at winning. I must also admit that the unexpected rain and cool conditions were on my side.”

Gomersall added, “The delight was that I had not let anybody down. All the many people in the UK who had supported me were not disappointed. Additionally, my family had delightedly received the reward for all their sacrifices.”

The CMA was honoured with a visit to the 2015 Comrades Marathon by Gomersall, 50 years after his win. On his visit, he said, “What an amazing trip I had back to South Africa, half a century after winning The Ultimate Human Race. I must admit that the visit was emotionally charged with surprise and delight but also tinged with a feeling of sorrow. My surprise was that, after all those years, as to who had heard of me and who still remembered me. I thought my visit would have been very quiet but I found out that old winners of the Comrades were and still are in demand as I received a number of invitations to supporting events that year.”

“The delight was that I was returning to the country and event that brought me my greatest success and introduced me to many new friends. It also allowed me to renew old friendships and touch base with so many dear people.”

“Last but not least, the sorrow was that my dear wife, Ruth, of 55 years was not at my side as she had passed away in 2011. But she was there in spirit.”

Gomersall will be remembered as a formidable runner, true Comrades Champion and four-time winner of the London-to-Brighton Marathon. He was also one who never failed to acknowledge his wife’s role and contribution to his road-running successes. He was one of the oldest participants in last year’s Comrades virtual event, the Comrades Centenary Hope Challenge.

CMA Chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo said, “Mr Gomersall was an amazing Elder and ambassador for the Comrades Marathon. He

showcased the ideals of The Ultimate Human Race and supported this great race throughout his running years and beyond.”

Ngcobo adds, “It is telling that Mr Gomersall made history as one of the few international athletes to win the Comrades, most notably his maiden Comrades run. He will be greatly missed by everyone in the Comrades world. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Former CMA Chairperson and 1982 Comrades Winner, Cheryl Winn said, “That's so sad. Bernard was such a wonderful man. I feel so privileged to have known him. I will especially cherish the happy memories of times spent with Bernard, Mick, Jackie Mekler and Tommy Malone. We wish the family strength during this sad time.”

Nine-time Comrades Winner, Bruce Fordyce said, “I was devastated to learn of the death of Bernard. I was thinking of him at Comrades and how he loved visiting the race. I quietly hoped he would live to attend the 100th running of the race in a couple of years. He was one of the great champions and characters of Comrades. So many runners are introverts; he was the opposite, larger than life and great company.”

“Tommie Malone, who won the race in 1966 and is famous for his second place in 1967, founded an informal group which he called “The Winners Club”. On behalf of all of us from “the club” please believe me when I say, Bernard Gomersall was a treasured member of that club. He is gone, but not from our thoughts, and his name is forever engraved in our hearts and on our trophy.”

Bruce added, “Most runners don’t know that he won 4 London to Brighton races. He once confided in me that he panicked that after I had won 3 Brightons he feared that I would catch him. I replied that there could only ever be one four-time winner and I would never have the temerity to try and match him.”

Comrades Ambassador at Large and friend, Mark Bloomfield said, “In 2020, Comrades went virtual and one could get a Comrades medal even by completing a 5km. I called Bernard who by that time had moved to Washington DC with his daughter. I said, ‘Bernard do you want to get another Comrades medal?’ He responded, ‘Are you mad? I'm 88 years old.’ I replied that all he had to do was run a 5km and I would compete with him along the Potomac River in Washington DC.”

Mark added, “Bernard showed up with his daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter and great granddaughter who was small enough to fit into a baby carry. And off we went, four generations of Gomersalls including the 1965 Comrades and only second international winner, propped up a bit and getting help from his family. Just a few feet before the finish, I jumped ahead and beat him, only to hear the retort: ‘I've never been beaten by a bloody American!’ We did it again last year. What a sport – he will be missed!”

WISDOM FROM The Ramayan

Jyotishacharya Shastri Pundit Roshan Singh

Truth triumphs

The basic teaching fo Ramayana is that no matter how powerful evil is, it will always be defeated by Good. Truth always wins, no matter how vicious or poisonous lie is because even a bitter truth oozes with positivity and the sweetest lie has the darkest agenda behind it. The win of good over evil is a universal fate. A person should always have a noble heart and good values. That is how Lord Rama defeated the most knowledgeable person in history Ravana.

Unity can overcome any difficulty in life

Dashratha has three wives and four sons, all of them loved each other immensely and when life put them through tough times, their hearts were united even when they were apart physically. You should always stand by your family because when together a family can win over any difficulty. The fruits of togetherness give the power to sail the ship when the tide seems higher than the sky.

Be deeply committed to your duty

Besides being Sita’s husband, Ram was also the King of Ayodhya. And the duty of the king is to keep his subjects happy. And hence, he had to abandon his wife for the sake of the masses after they questioned her chastity. As a husband, he was duty bound towards his wife. But as a King, he had to think of his subjects’ wishes ahead of his personal ones.

large

with a tablespoon of oil and

garlic and ginger powder.

the tomatoes and stir. Wash the dhall and add it to the mixture and stir for 2 to 3 minutes, add the turmeric and cumin and mix well.

for 3 minutes then add water

4 glasses ), salt, thyme and parsley and cook for 45 minutes covered.

the dough, you can find dry pasta for Dhall Pita in some shops but you can also do it

Mix the flour with the salt, oil and add water little by little until you have a soft dough.

it rest for 30 minutes. Divide the dough into small parts and spread them, then cut it in the shape of your choice (triangle, square, etc.)

the dhall is cooked add to broth the pieces of pasta and cook for 20 minutes more, stirring occasionally.

the Dhall Pita in bowls sprinkled with chopped coriander and serve with tomato chutney.

written by Pastor Michael Gobel Associate Pastor of ‘The Campus Church’ Co founder/CEO of Planting Hope Foundation NPC

HOW TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES IN LIFE

When you encounter troubles in life, you must learn to take your eyes off the problem and turn to God. The problem with us is that with our limited perspective, we let our problems and life overwhelm us we need to step back from our “piecemeal view of life” and see the bigger picture; having a “whole view of life” is critically important. Start with Paul’s argument in Romans 8:32 ”He that spared not His own Son, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Do not rush at your problems step back and get God’s perspective. Scripture gives us some key propositions for dealing with life’s challenges:

1. Life in this world can only be viewed truly in the light of “the next life.” Here we are in this difficult, troubled world of ours, wondering what is going to happen stop and look at the bigger picture! Life in this world is temporary and transitory. Life is nothing but a great journey; we are simply “ pilgrims” and travellers in this life (Heb 13:14). Furthermore, life is also full of uncertainty, accidents, trials and tribulations life is a kind of existence in which you never know what is going to happen next. No security can be obtained (nor is it promised) in this life therefore, to live for this life only, and to rely upon it or anything in it, is to deliberately court disappointment; that is why the twenty first century is in such turmoil. The Bible tells us “ why” this is the case it is all because of “ sin” sin makes us try to be independent of God; we think we can get along without Him. It is as if we are saying, if only we could abolish death, then we could make a perfect world!

2. The most important thing for us to concentrate on is “ the life of the soul” We live in a world that is passing away, but we don’t know when it will end. The Bible tells us there is something in us that is bigger than life in this world it is imperishable and it is called “the soul.” The soul is what matters not the external life, but the “ inner life.” Jesus said, “Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul” (Matt 10:28). Therefore, concentrate on the life of the soul. Remember the story of the rich, young ruler God said to Him, “Fool! This night your soul will be required of you;...” (Luke 12:19).

3. The main function and purpose of life in this world is to prepare us for “the next life” That does not mean that we turn our back on this life, or that we despise our lives, or that you resign yourself to life in a monastery no, we are to live life to the maximum, but never forgetting that the main object of life in this world is to prepare us for “ the next life.” That is the whole philosophy of the Bible and of Christianity to know and believe by faith that there is a “ next life” which is eternal and in order to get to that life it requires of you and I to accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Saviour. For the Bible tells us many things regarding our past, present and the future life on this earth but the most important of these Truths must surely be what is written in Hebrews 12:1 2, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Jesus said, “I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, you may be also.”

4. “Your soul” is the one thing that matters most. Jesus said, “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” ( Matt 16:26). You need to know that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for you and for me, so be certain of your eternal inheritance (John 14:2). Remember Paul’s words, “ Nothing can separate you from the love of God that is found in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:38 39).

5. Ephesians 4:13 gives us the road map to follow, ”... until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ .” The three key elements referred to here is “ unity” which must be based on the essentials of our faith. Secondly, biblical “knowledge” which is a critically element for effective service, and thirdly, “spiritual growth” which increases the fruit of the Spirit in our lives and our love for both God and others (Matthew 22:37 40).

A day is coming when we will “ leave this world” and everything else behind, so it is only my soul, my eternal destiny, my relationship to God that matters. The Christian message must be about “knowing God your Saviour and enjoying Him for all eternity!

Keynote Scripture: Hebrews 12: 1 2 “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

Spreading the Light of the Vedas

Aries

With a Solar Eclipse bringing powerful energy to your intimacy sector, dear Aries, the period ahead is one of empowerment and discovery. It’s a time for working on yourself from the inside out, addressing dependencies and issues of support, and improving an intimate relationship. If you’ve been too dependent on others, or the opposite, too proud to ask for help, then you’ll see and feel it acutely at this time, and you’ll want to make changes.

Taurus

With a Solar Eclipse bringing powerful energy to your partnership sector, dear Taurus, you’re in a strong position for new beginnings regarding your close relationships. Negotiations and one-to-one relationships are highlighted now and in the coming weeks. It can be a time for beginning new relationships or redefining existing ones in significant ways.

Gemini

Today’s Solar Eclipse prompts a refresh or new chapter in your life related to work, health, habits, and routines, dear Gemini. It heralds a period when you can successfully initiate new diet regimes, healthy routines, and satisfying work schedules or improve and revamp current ones. In the weeks ahead, you’re in a solid position to take care of business, handle details, and increase efficiency.

Cancer

Today’s Solar Eclipse occurs in your sector of romance, creative selfexpression, recreation, children, and hobbies, dear Cancer. Events happening now and in the coming weeks set you up for new beginnings in one or more of these areas of life. This eclipse sets up a distinct theme: romantic inclinations are highlighted, as are any kind of celebratory, playful, and just-for-fun endeavors.

Leo

Today’s Solar Eclipse clears the way for new beginnings, dear Leo, mainly related to your personal life or living conditions and arrangements. It’s time to assess what may have been holding you back from thriving, mainly related to your career and home life. This eclipse set, spanning from October 2021 to November 2023, is powerful for arriving at a better work-home balance. With this particular eclipse, the focus is taking charge of your home life, attention to matters of security and safety, and connecting with family and your own emotions.

Virgo

Today’s Solar Eclipse launches a favorable cycle for turning over a new leaf with your studies, communications, and connections, dear Virgo. It comes as a powerful prompt to improve your communications. It’s also strong for making new contacts, learning new things, and expressing yourself in new ways (or through different channels). You could find you’re becoming more effective at developing mental rapport with others, or it’s becoming easier to connect and get around. New equipment or transportation options might open up.

depth Astrological report, owner and founder of Astroworld, Dr Roshan Singh can be contacted on

Libra

Today’s Solar Eclipse happens in your resources sector, dear Libra, and you might make important decisions in the coming weeks related to personal finances, business, and practical affairs. On another level, this is a time for establishing yourself and discovering and developing your natural talents and personal resources. Your financial status, income, or arrangements related to security and comfort are subject to improvements, changes, and new beginnings.

Scorpio

Today’s Solar Eclipse falls in your sign, dear Scorpio, and it helps pave the way toward significant individual changes in the coming weeks and months. It’s a time to reinvent yourself in some personal way, such as with a new look or manner of expressing and presenting yourself. Put your best foot forward, as you’re getting noticed and making a powerful impression on others.

Sagittarius

Today’s Solar Eclipse launches a period of review, letting go, and recharging your spiritual or emotional batteries, dear Sagittarius. Occurring in your solar twelfth house of endings, mental health, privacy, and reflection, it’s a time for releasing, purging, and healing. This eclipse encourages you to put certain outdated ventures or situations behind you. It may be a time of withdrawal and retreat in a social sense, of soulsearching, and the seeking out of emotional peace of mind.

Capricorn

Today’s Solar Eclipse emphasizes making contacts and reaching out to others, dear Capricorn, over the coming weeks and months. Events and circumstances clear the path for new beginnings, mainly related to how you fit in with friends and the community. With this eclipse occurring in your social sector, you become more acutely aware of your position in life within the context of the group rather than through self-centered focus.

Aquarius

Today’s Solar Eclipse heightens your awareness and sensitivity to your standing in society and your professional goals, dear Aquarius, as it happens in your solar chart’s professional or public sector. There can be feelings of excitement or uneasiness, depending on how you handle change, surrounding career, reputation, and life path matters. Initially, you could feel stuck, blocked, underappreciated, or uncertain of your next step.

Pisces

Today’s Solar Eclipse falls in the sector of your solar chart that rules your spirit to grow, explore, and expand beyond the “regular” experiences in your life, dear Pisces. It can bring invigorating events into your life that nudge you out of your routine. You are making a break from the past, helping clear the path for future growth and development. There may be chances to broaden your horizons through education, life experience, or adventure. Emerging opportunities to publish or promote your work, share your ideas, and enjoy mind-expanding experiences can figure strongly.

THE

Sarah Pennington was born in Much Hadham in England in 1926.

At the tender age of 17, she joined the Navy (WRNS - Woman’s Royal Naval Service) where she was given the job as a stoker. Later, in 1946, she moved to South Africa, where she met her husband, Rex. Together, they built a family and home around their 5 children. At the time of his retirement, Rex was the Rector of Michaelhouse.

At the age of 50, with boldness and passion, Sarah launched herself into a career as an interior decorator. It didn’t take long before she was recognised for her talent and her renown spread widely across Johannesburg. Her talent was recognised by the industry when she won a National Competition for entrepreneurs over 60. Her love for decorating and desire to help those in need inspired her to refurbish and decorate various comfort rooms in hospitals, retirement homes and charity offices.

Sarah believes that we are as old as we feel and her motto in life is “Just Do It”. She strongly believes that anything is possible if we just believe in ourselves, have passion and are prepared to work for it.

Sarah’s feisty and passion for helping other has left an indelible mark on numerous charitable organisations, most notably, that of the Pietermaritzburg & District Community Chest of which she is a loyal, dedicated and long-standing patron.

There isn’t anything that Sarah was not willing to get her hands (and feet) working for the benefit of those less fortunate in our community. From assisting with the donations of porridge for children in crèches in impoverished areas, to sewing hundreds of little cushions for ladies in retirement homes, to becoming the person who founded the Teddy Bear Project, she has always risen to the occasion and helped in whichever way she could.

For her charitable spirit, Sarah was recognised, twice (2017/17 and 2021/22). The John Hall Extra Mile Award from the Pietermaritzburg & District Community Chest. The John Hall Extra

Sarah has the knack of getting what others consider the impossible done. On one occasion, she orchestrated the donation of hand creams and other toiletries which arrived on pantechnicon from Unilever and delivered to senior citizens, residing in a deep rural community.

Of all the projects that Sarah was involved in, her signature project became “Teddy Bear Project” and she earned the title of “Bear Lady”. Through her charismatic personality and determination, she recruited many young and old ladies in KZN to knit thousands of teddy bears for deserving children. Sarah went the extra mile in 2018 when she made an appeal to Saprotex, a wool supplier in East London, to donate large amounts of wool for the project. It is thanks to her that the Community Chest, in 2022, still able to continue with the Teddy Bear Project. These greatly needed and appreciated teddy bears convey feelings of hope and joy to thousands of pre-school children in impoverished communities, children in hospitals and children residing in protective shelters and children’s homes.

Sarah celebrated her 96th birthday in October 2022. To celebrate the occasion and Sarah’s 2nd awarding of the John Hall Extra Mile award, a special tea was arranged by the Community Chest together with residents at the Isabel Beardmore Home for the Aged. Surrounded by people was what Sarah appreciated most and the occasion gave her the perfect opportunity to bring out her sparkle and ever sharp, humorous wit.

Special thanks and appreciation to Rakisha Maharaj, Kavitha Dhanilal, Parklane Superspar, the media and residents of Isabel Beadmore Home for making this event a success.

Mile Award recognizes patrons of the Community Chest who go the proverbial extra mile in service to the Community Chest and its beneficiaries.

Photographer Nash Narrandes

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