An Islamic Micro Finance Bank To Help Enterprises - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 8 Words: 2346 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Statistics Essay Did you like this example? The Conventional Micro-Finance programs have shown little interest in religious and cultural sensitivities ,also excludes the poorest of the poor and are inadequate to full-fill the needs of 37.4 % poor Muslims of the world. A recent report by CGAP suggests that a large proportion of poor muslims rejects all forms of loans, including Grameen style Microloans on religious grounds, even many Government initiatives have failed because of this reason. Islamic Finance industry is an industry with rapid growth but has shown little interest in Micro-Finance and poverty alleviation aiming for shariah compliance inform and not in spirit. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "An Islamic Micro Finance Bank To Help Enterprises" essay for you Create order There are many Islamic MF programs currently operational in different parts of the world, but they are regional and country based programs, this research paper will focus on the development of an International Micro-Finance Bank (not Program) with deepest local penetration. Interest based loans may lead prospective entrepreneurs to refrain from pursuing activities as cost of failure is too high. Islamic Economics goals of equality, fairness, social solidarity through risk sharing, property rights, and sanctity of contracts; entrepreneurship, partnership, income generation through productive activity for poverty alleviation are completely in sync with basic principles of any Micro-Finance program. Aim and objectives: The purpose of my research is developing a sustainable and universal business model of an ideal full-fledged à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Islamic Micro-Finance Bankà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? by examining working technique and mode of operation of Islamic Banks(and of Banks working on No Interest principle) and of Micro-Finance programs ( both Islamic and Non-Islamic) and merging the working principles of both to come with a business model of a Universal World-Wide Micro-Finance Bank strictly following and working on principles of Islamic Finance. An Islamic Micro-Finance Bank will provide thousands of entrepreneurial poorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s access to Micro-Finance- especially those who fear breaching their religious beliefs. Islamic Micro-Finance Bank will seek to finance business activities which will lead to the economic empowerment of the poor, rather than merely lending to the poor for consumption. Literature review: Islamic Finance : Islamic Finance refers to a system of Banking that is Consistent with Islamic law(sharia) principles. This system reflects Islamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s teachings on wealth distribution, social and economic justice. The basic principles and practices of Islamic Finance date back to the early part of the seventh century. (Islamic Finance : A Euromoney Publication, 1997). Prohibition of Riba(interest). Risk Sharing. Social Mission. Prohibition of Speculative Behaviour. Sanctity of Contracts. Shariah- approved activities. Islamic Financing Techniques: Islamic financial institutions have developed several financing techniques that are applicable according to the nature of the commodity or business and finance period of the project. The principal financing techniques, murabaha, mudaraba, musharaka, and ijarah, are described briefly below: The first technique, murabaha, is the most popular and widely used Islamic financing instrument. Murabaha involves the resale of a commodity after the lender adds a specific profit margin (often referred to as the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"mark-upà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢), which is paid by the borrower who agrees to buy that commodity. Usually, repayment is made in instalments to the financier, who pays the price to the original supplier of the commodity. This type of finance is commonly used for financing assets or working capital inputs, such as raw materials, machinery or equipment. For murabaha to be Sharià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ah-compliant the financier must own (or procure) the commodity first and then resell it, the commodity should be a tangible one, and the buyer must know and then agree to the purchase and resale prices. Under mudaraba, a second type of contract, two parties are involved à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" the financier, who provides all the money, and the entrepreneur who uses his or her skill to invest the money in an attractive business venture. The profit from the mudaraba contract is shared by the financier and the entrepreneur according to a pre-determined ratio. Importantly, profit-sharing rates are a percentage of the profit and not a lump sum payment. In the case of a loss, providing it has incurred in the normal process of business and not due to neglect or misconduct by the entrepreneur, the financier loses all his or her money, while the entrepreneur merely loses his or her time and effort. Musharaka, a third financing instrument, means partnership in Arabic and can be understood as an equity participation contract. Both parties provide capital and are involved in the management of the funded venture. Profits are shared between each partner according to the ratio of his or her investment. If the venture suffers a loss, each partner loses according to this same ratio. Neither mudaraba nor musharaka are popular mechanisms in the context of microfinance as the thorough reporting and transparency requirements surrounding the just distribution of any profit or loss can result in substantial operating burdens and costs on small businesses which are generally unaccustomed to formal accounting and reporting. Ijarah, a fourth primary finance instrument, is similar to leasing. Under this arrangement, an entrepreneur short of funds approaches a financier to fund the purchase of a productive asset. The financier may buy the productive asset and rent it out to the entrepreneur. The financier retains ownership of the asset and is responsible for its maintenance. Importantly, and like any other contract, an ijarah contract must fulfil all of the conditions of a valid contract stipulated by the Sharià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ah. Thus, the contract should be clear, should be by mutual agreement, the responsibilities and benefits of both parties should be clearly detailed and the agreement should be for a known period and price. Islamic Micro-Finance Bank is something very very new and in fact there is only one Islamic Micro-Finance bank currently in the world(Nigeria) and that too was launched recently on 15th of April 2010,recently State Bank of Pakistan has laid down guidelines for the establishment of any Islamic Micro-Finance Bank. My research problem is somewhat related with poverty as a whole and poor muslims around the world will be the main focus of the solution, because solution that is applicable for muslims is certainly available to every individual in the world. First, I will talk about why there is a need of Islamic Micro-Finance and then about the need of a Full-Fledged Islamic Micro-Finance Bank. About 65% of the SMEs (muslim owned) who had never applied for bank loans were uncomfortable with the interest based loan products being extended by banks. While this may not be a conclusive evidence for the extensive demand for Islamic finance products as it is not clear that whether these responden ts need the loans etc, however generally the respondents do highlight the interest (Riba) based banking products as one of the reasons for their reluctance to access bank loans. About 75% of the farmers in Muslim dominated countries who did not take bank loans and 55% of all the farmers expressed their dislike of interest based products and said that they donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¸t want to take the interest bearing bank loans. Although this finding signifies the need for introduction of Islamic Agrifinance Products, however the finding may be somewhat biased as a large number of these farmers also considered lack of collaterals/defects in title deeds and non-cooperation by revenue department as the key hurdles in obtaining banks loans. Nevertheless there is substantial demand for Sharia compliant agri-finance products and if offered most of the farmers would be willing to avail the facility. Conventional microfinance had also been questioned on its overall desired impact since the poorà ¢ â‚ ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s are subjected to very high interest rate of up to 30%. Some even argued that disbursing credit to the poor to make financial gains out of the same cannot be the aim of the microfinance institutions. Interest charged is rather oppressive for their poor receivers, thus fails to achieve the noble objective of microfinance. According to various studies, a notable number of the recipients were also found to be well above the poor category. Islamic Micro-Finance , on the hand, utilizes Islamic financial Instruments which are based on PLS schemes rather than loan. Conventional microfinance institution focused mainly on women as their client. On the hand, Islamic Micro Finance Institution should not only be focusing on women but must also be extended to the family as a whole. Moreover, Conventional Micro-Finance used group lending as a way to mitigate risk in their operation. Islamic Micro-Finance may also use similar technique, but they can also develop Islamic ethical principles to ensure their clients pay the payment regularly. Now, talking about why there is a need of an Islamic Micro-Finance Bank, well there are many Islamic Micro-Finance operational in different parts of the world run and managed by different organisations like Sanadiq at Jabal-al-Hoss; Muà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢assasat Bayt Al-Mal in Lebanon; Hodeidah program in Yemen. IBBL, SIBL in Bangladesh; Akhuwat in Pakistan; Sahulat , Manara in India. Amana Ikhtiar in Malaysia; BPRS , BMTs in Indonesia. FINCA in Afghanistan. Azaovad Finance in Northern Mali. But my question is that why we cannot have a Global Islamic Micro-Finance Program when is there is such a huge of this, microfinance programs are designed keeping in mind the needs of local people and how to serve them better, but if this is done with an International approach then experiences gained in one region will be very beneficial in addressing the problem of other regions, it will be very helpful in the diversification of risk and also SMEs will be share to share expertise and experiences o f one another and can work to build and ecosystem of mutual co-operation and empowerment. Also the increasing demand for alternative micro credit products by the less privileged members of the society against the conventional banking practices, now requires a whole financial system rather than a program or a bank as individual entities, marriage of two is much required need of the time and a new approach designed on the strict guidelines laid down by Quran for Islamic Finance is recommended, adapting Classical Islamic Contracts to modern Islamic Micro-Finance is easier than for mainstream Islamic Finance. I want to develop a Islamic Micro-finance Bank with muslims as prime focus but only for muslims because What we are commissioning today represents our contribution towards providing an alternative banking for Muslims and non-muslims alike. Poor person is a poor person and this has nothing to do with her/her religion, and poverty can only be alleviated if we consider all poors of the world as one and work global make à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“No povertyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? a reality. The number of Islamic Micro-Finance initiatives remains limited, less than 1% of the total global microfinance outreach, there is for a number of reasons increasing in interest in developing microfinance programmes based on Islamic Financing principles. Since, Islamic Microfinance is a new area, because little research has been conducted on its impact, outreach of such programmes has so far been limited. So, research with the aim of developing a new approach to Islamic microfinance is completely justified. Research Methodology and Method(s): My research methodology will be based on a lot research and study of Islamic Finance laws approved by Quran, their practical application in the real world scenario, how they are applied by different Islamic Banks and Micro-finance programs in their working, how differently they are applied in practice, analysis of shortcoming of different Islamic Banks and Micro-Finance programs. Study of how Islamic banks weathered current GFC, what were their advantages and disadvantages. How an Islamic Bank is started( rules and regulations in different countries) and how an Islamic Micro-Finance program works( relative to different regions), establishing a common ground for Islamic Micro-Finance bank, framing rules and policies for an ideal Islamic Micro-Finance Bank. Research and study of banking system in Japan( interest rates are negligible) and of JAK Bank Sweden(work on NO interest principal), how they operate , from where and how they fund themselves, how their modus operandi will sustain in an Islamic Finance environment. Data will be collected basically from internet because much of the work has not been done in the area of Islamic Micro-Finance Bank, interviews and discussion with the experts in field of Islamic Law and Islamic Finance, thorough study of Quran( Islamic laws and Financial laws).Study of books on this topic, discussion and advice from experts on Risk Management and Diversification and how i can apply them in Islamic Finance. Extensive of all available sources of information Islamic Finance and Micro-Finance. Structure and plan: Chapters in the Dissertation will be as Follows(Final Structure Can Change): CONTEXTUALISING ISLAMIC FINANCE Error: Reference source not found (Number of days taken to complete the chapter) Modern revival of Islamic financeError: Reference source not found Islamic economic foundationsError: Reference source not found Ethical dimensions of Islamic economic systemsError: Reference source not found Benefits of Islamic bankingError: Reference source not found Islamic economic principles do they promote or stifle growth? 9 DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF ISLAMIC FINANCEError: Reference source not found Principles of Islamic financial systemsError: Reference source not found Prohibition on speculation or risk (gharar)Error: Reference source not found Prohibition on usury (riba) and hoardingError: Reference source not found Prohibition on usury (riba) and interestError: Reference source not found Profits as distinct from usury (riba)Error: Reference source not found APPLICATION OF ISLAMIC BANKING TO MICROFINANCEError: Reference source not found Interface of Islamic Banking Principles and MicrofinanceError: Reference source not found Islam and microfinanceError: Reference source not found Social and development roles of Islamic banksError: Reference source not found Informal Banking and Debt transfer (hawala)Error: Reference source not found Is Islamic microfinance truly Islamic?Error: Reference source not found ISLAMIC FINANCIAL OBJECTIVES AND PRODUCTSError: Reference source not found Financial productsError: Reference source not found Islamic MortgagesError: Reference source not found Conventional Banking through the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"back doorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢?Error: Reference source not found Need for regulationError: Reference source not found ISLAMIC MICROFINANCE IN PRACTICEError: Reference source not found Expansion of microfinance in the Arab worldError: Reference source not found Islamic microfinance in the Arab worldError: Reference source not found Experiences in YemenError: Reference source not found Experiences in BangladeshError: Reference source not found Resistance to the Grameen BankError: Reference source not found MicroFinance and Islamic Values 13 Japanese Banking System and JAK Bank Sweden13 Framing Regulations and Strategies For an Ideal Islamic Micro-Finance Bank 14

The Effects of Foreshadowing in John Steinbecks Of Mice...

The Effects of Foreshadowing Of mice and men is a short but captivating novel by John Steinbeck. He uses many literary techniques in his novel, but one of the many that can keep his readers on their toes is foreshadowing. Steinbeck uses parallel structure to foreshadow upcoming events in the novel. Some readers feel that this technique makes the book predictable, therefore taking away interest, but others think this technique is what creates the excitement to see if their predictions turn out to be correct. Nonetheless the technique is one that shapes the book. Steinbeck uses foreshadowing with different components of his novel, one being the characters. When reading about Candy it’s obvious that he has a strong connection with his dog,†¦show more content†¦The very end of the book ends in the same setting when Lennie runs and hides to the brush after killing Curley’s wife. George talks to him about their plans with the rabbits just like he did that night, and that’s when he kills him. The details in the beginning gave the readers hints about what was going to happen near the end when George came to find Lennie. Several other examples of foreshadowing can be found in the events that happen throughout the novel. It’s no secret to the readers that Lennie has a habit of getting himself into trouble â€Å"You get in trouble. You do bad things and I got to get you out.† (11). First with the incident in Weed with the girl’s dress and then again in a similar situation with another woman, Curley’s wife. Lennie had seen a woman wearing a dress that interested him, and, naturally because of his habits of wanting to pet and feel things, he wanted to touch it. The woman was frightened by this and screamed for him to let go. Lennie was shocked by her reaction and hung on tighter. This is because, in George’s words, â€Å"that was all he could think to do† (41). After the other workers went looking for t hem they felt the need to escape the town and this is where ‘Of mice and men’ begins its story. This almost mirrors the death of Curley’s wife, except her neck is snapped and Lennie plays with her hair, not a dress. During scene one, George discovers a dead mouse in Lennie’s pocket. This angers him, as Lennie has seemedShow MoreRelatedSteinbeck and His Techniques for Success in Of Mice and Men924 Words   |  4 Pagesget a better understanding of Lennie and George, the two main characters Of Mice and Men. It also helps in keeping readers thinking on their feet and constantly questioning George and Lennie`s next move while in Salinas, California. John Steinbeck, in his novel Of Mice and Men, makes use of similes and foreshadowing to keep readers in touch with the characters and at the edge of their seats throughout the story. John Steinbeck uses similes to build and create powerful characters that touch theRead MoreSteinbeck’s Use of Foreshadowing in Of Mice and Men Essay968 Words   |  4 PagesIn John Steinbeck’s famous novel Of Mice and Men, foreshadowing plays a large part in the reader’s experience. Almost every event that is important was foreshowed at some people, such as the multiple deaths that occur throughout. If Steinbeck wasnt so prolific in his use of foreshadowing the readers experience would be very different. In Of Mice and Men, almost every character and setting is used for foreshadowing, and it begins right away. The first scene depicting a calm, serene, peacefulRead MoreOf Mice And Men By Lora Colon1750 Words   |  7 PagesJunna Chen Peterson Honors English 25 September 2015 Of Mice and Men Analysis â€Å"But, I m already resigned to this fate / Looking over my life, I recall / If it hadn t been / for the loneliness / I d have no companion at all. † This stanza from â€Å"Loneliness†, by Lora Colon evokes the negative impact a lonely fate has on a person. Words like â€Å"resigned† and â€Å"loneliness† establish a sense of depression and resignation. During the times of the Great Depression, many people felt similar feelings of melancholyRead MoreJohn Steinbeck s Of Mice And Men2257 Words   |  10 PagesThe American Dream, is the wish to prosper. In John Steinbeck’s novella, Of Mice and Men told during the time of hard labor in the 1930’s about two close friends, who are all each other have, but are chasing this American dream, George and Lennie deal with several obstacles and road blocks with each other. Whether it be, hiding Lennie’s mental illness, or trying to keep a job to fulfill their version of the American dream, Geor ge will always carry Lennie in his heart, and Lennie tries his hardestRead MoreJohn Steinbeck s Of Mice And Men 1656 Words   |  7 PagesIn the novel ‘Of Mice and Men’, Curley’s Wife is one of the many characters who represent a minority in the American society in the 1930s. In the award winning book, John Steinbeck provides many different aspects to the world he was living in at the time he wrote the novel: dreams, hopes and loneliness to name a few, all channelled through one mentality - prejudice. Curley’s Wife was one of the many characters that Steinbeck used to get his point across about prejudice with. She is not a complexRead MoreOf Mice And Men Essay 20152101 Words   |  9 PagesThrough the narrative conventions of foreshadowing and characterisation, John Steinbeck, in his novel Of Mice And Men, published in 1937, is able to effectively reveal the imperfections of America’s capitalist society during the Great Depression. Steinbeck†™s reveals rural American society in California to be racist, sexist against women, neglectful of the disabled and a world without hope blinkered by the corruption of the American dream. The novel follows two men, George Stilton, a small farm workerRead MoreCurlys Wife2613 Words   |  11 Pagesï » ¿Of Mice and Men was written by John Steinbeck in 1937 and was published also in 1937. The novella is set in 1940’s America a time when the rights of women were very different to what they are now. Of Mice and Men is a story about George Milton and Lennie Small, two itinerant farm labourers. They are travelling from a ranch in Weed to another ranch in Soledad. They had to leave the ranch in Weed because Lennie, who isn’t the sharpest knife in the draw, went to feel a women’s red dress and she wentRead MoreExplore the Way the Writer Presents the Relationship Between George and Lennie in of Mice and Men3909 Words   |  16 Pagesrelationship between George and Lenn ie in â€Å"Of Mice and Men† Of Mice and Men was written in the 1937 by John Steinbeck, he other well know books as the Grapes of Wrath and East of Eden, h also received a Nobel Prize for Literature in 1962. This book is set in the 1930s and set in California, his home region. During this time, the USA was suffering from a great depression, this meant that it was hard to find job because the economy was very weak, so to find job the men were disposed to go anywhere and theRead MoreCurley and Slim in Of Mice and Men2464 Words   |  10 Pagesï » ¿ ‘Of Mice and Men’, written by John Steinbeck, is a novel set in 1930s California and tells the story of two migrant workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, who move from ranch to ranch looking for work during the Great Depression. This novel is set while George and Lennie are in a small working ranch in the Salinas Valley of northern California, and over a period of 3 days we are introduced to a variety of characters that also live on the ranch. This essay will show how Steinbeck develops and

Stefan’s Diaries The Craving Chapter 11 Free Essays

The following morning, I clutched the soft linen sheets up to my neck, as I had when I was a child. With my eyes squeezed shut, I could almost pretend I was home again. That Damon and I were still human and having our usual brotherly quarrels. We will write a custom essay sample on Stefan’s Diaries: The Craving Chapter 11 or any similar topic only for you Order Now That our father was somewhere on the plantation, working. That Katherine was alive. No – wait. That we had never met Katherine. Or†¦ maybe I was in bed at Lexi’s house, unsure about my new life, but accepted in this new home of fellow vampires. I slowly came fully awake, and my fantasies crumbled against reality. I was in the Sutherlands’ house, still a captive of their generosity and my brother’s threats, an uneager groom being run quickly into an unwanted wedding. The Sutherlands weren’t terribly formal but nevertheless expected everyone to show up at breakfast. My dressing went perhaps slower than it might have normally, as I adjusted my sock garters until they were perfect, fiddled with my cuffs, and ran my hands through my hair. I didn’t much like looking in mirrors in those days. I hated who I saw there. By the time I finally made it downstairs to breakfast, the entire family was well into their meal. Mrs. Sutherland greeted me with a warm maternal smile that tore at my insides. Though I felt genuinely fond toward her, she was compelled to accept me. â€Å"Good morning,† I mumbled, slinking into my place. â€Å"Is there any coffee?† â€Å"You seem a bit down today, m’boy,† Winfield said, tucking his watch into his breast pocket. â€Å"And a bit thin, may I add. You definitely need fattening up before the wedding – I think I’ll take you to the club today. They do a wonderful lamb and pudding.† Lydia gave me an apologetic smile. With a shock I realized that a pretty rose-pink scarf encircled her neck, neatly covering the usual spot for a vampire bite. Damon had fed on her. I turned my head from the coffee that had been placed before me, my stomach churning. Unconsciously, I touched my neck where Katherine used to bite me, remembering the pain and pleasure all wound up together so sickly. Was it a message to me? To remind me of what would happen if I failed to marry Bridget? â€Å"Stefan! Don’t go to the club until later! We have a full day today,† Bridget warned. â€Å"We absolutely must, must, must go visit Bram’s family. They just love Damon – Brammy’s been taking him to all of the latest places, like that bar that serves real English-style Pimm’s Cups! I’ll have to wear my new blue muslin. To their house, not to the bar, naturally. It isn’t a suitable place for ladies. Fanny wanted blue muslin for her trousseau, but her engagement didn’t work out, poor thing†¦.† The door to the kitchen opened, and Damon stepped through. â€Å"Good morning, all,† he crowed, bright-eyed and chipper. He looked rested and sated as he gave Lydia a flirty bow and me a nasty wink. My shoulders clenched. â€Å"What are you doing here, Damon?† I asked in as innocent a tone as I could muster. â€Å"You didn’t hear?† He sat down at the table and unfolded his napkin with a flourish. â€Å"Winfield begged me to move in.† â€Å"Oh.† I pushed my chair back from the table, plastering a wobbly smile on my face to mask my anger. â€Å"Er, Damon, would you mind joining me in the foyer for a moment?† Damon grinned at me. â€Å"But I just sat down and I’m ever so hungry.† â€Å"It will take but a minute,† I said through clenched teeth. Lydia looked at me curiously, but after a beat, Damon scraped his chair back and followed me to the foyer. â€Å"Milady, I’ll return shortly.† The second we were out of earshot, I turned to my brother. â€Å"You are unbelievable. You’re moving in now?† â€Å"Why thank you,† Damon said with a facetious bow. â€Å"And yes. Were you not listening last night when I talked about all the amazing†¦ amenities the Sutherland abode has to offer?† The room began to spin around me as rage overtook me. My patience with Damon’s game was over. â€Å"Why bother with all of†¦ this?† I demanded. â€Å"These shenanigans? If you’re so powerful, why not just go into a bank and make them give you all of the gold in their vaults?† â€Å"I suppose I could, but where’s the fun in that?† â€Å"The fun?† I echoed in disbelief. â€Å"You’re doing this for fun?† Damon’s eyes hardened. â€Å"Tracks, brother. You’re not thinking ahead.† He frowned and brushed some imaginary lint off my jacket. â€Å"Yes, I could just steal the money and leave town. But we’re going to be around forever. Or at least I am. And compulsion doesn’t always take. In case you didn’t notice, Margaret remains quite stubborn, and having her or Winfield, should he ever shake my Power, go around waving my picture and calling me a thief†¦ well, I can’t have that. It’s much easier – and more fun – just to inherit it.† I gazed at the door that separated us from the happily dining Sutherlands. â€Å"Inherit it? As in, upon death?† â€Å"What? Why, brother, what exactly are you implying?† he asked, pretending to be hurt. â€Å"You keep your half of the bargain, and I don’t go on a killing spree. Remember? I gave you my word.† â€Å"No, Damon,† I said. â€Å"You said if I didn’t marry Bridget you would start killing everyone in that room. You specifically did not say anything about what would happen after we were married.† â€Å"Good point,† Damon said, nodding. â€Å"I’d like to kill a few people in their circle. Starting with that sycophant Bram. I think he has a thing for my Lydia, you know,† he added with mock anger. â€Å"Damon,† I growled. His eyes narrowed. â€Å"You take care of your wife. I’ll take care of mine.† I looked at my brother sharply. â€Å"So then you do plan to kill Winfield after he signs over his fortune?† â€Å"For that, you will just have to stick around and see.† â€Å"I won’t let you hurt any of them,† I promised through a clenched jaw. â€Å"You can’t stop me. Whatever I choose to do,† Damon hissed back. We glared at each other. My hands curled into fists. He shifted his stance, ready for a fight. At that moment Mrs. Sutherland poked her head into the foyer. â€Å"Boys? Everything okay out here?† â€Å"Yes, ma’am,† Damon answered graciously. â€Å"We were just acquainting ourselves.† He pointed the door to the kitchen and gave a slight bow. â€Å"After you, Stefan.† Reluctantly, I passed back into the kitchen, Damon close on my heels. â€Å"So tomorrow we pick out our suits,† Damon said. He was acting as though we were continuing a mundane discussion from the foyer, rather than just having ended an argument over the fates of everyone in the room. â€Å"Stefan, we should match! Why, Bridget, weren’t you just saying last night how someone, I forget who, matched her sister at another wedding? Silk or something?† He knew. He was my brother and he knew precisely how to torment me. Eternally. â€Å"Yes, of course, Damon,† Bridget said with a gratified smile, turning to me. â€Å"Stefan, you have to hear this. I thought about matching me and Lydia, but I’m not sure the effect would be as dramatic, what with Lydia’s figure†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I slowly sank down at the table, drowning in her words – and the knowledge that Damon was right. I had never been able to stop my brother, especially not when it mattered most. How to cite Stefan’s Diaries: The Craving Chapter 11, Essay examples

A Literature Review On Accounting Software Packages Structure

Question: Discuss about the Literature Review On Accounting Software Packages Structure. Answer: Accounting software package is the type of software that processes and records business accounting transactions in modules such as ledgers, trial balances, payrolls, payable accounts and receivable accounts. In Australia, some of the common accounting system used include MYOB, QuickBooks, sage, xero, reckon, cash flow and Nominal (James, 2008). The Company which I will review in this literature review is Australia Wheat board (AWB) company incorporated in Australia. This company emerged as a public company but later transformed into a private company. It markets and sells Australian oil, grain, and wheat for both domestic and international customers in meat industries, animal feeds, and food processing (Vasconcellos, JA 2004). It manages its finances through the use of accounting software packages in its operations. Its Current Organizational Structure Organization structure is the way an institution or organization achieves its objectives and goals through arranging people and jobs so that its work can be more productive and high quality of services and goods produced. Organizations are formed according to the size of the work group (Yasuhiko, Mihajlo, 2012). Formal structures are appropriate in a situation where work group is small and face-to-face kind of communication is used. However, larger organizations have to assign individual duties, responsibilities and lay down procedures to follow in their daily routines (Yasmine, Huub, 2014). In any organization of complexity or simplicity, employees duties are delegated by their managers and responsibilities defined by what they do and managers who report to them. Job specialization is well administered in the organizational structures as individual interests are well addressed, a proper chain of command followed and discipline maintained through rules of the organization. The organization structure is divided into different classes depending on the employees professional qualifications, experiences and their levels of income. The organizational structure of this company follows criteria similar to manufacturing industry firm After operating manager, there are various positions including department managers, supervisors, suppliers and team leaders and common employees in the organizations. Operational Problems Associated with this Structure The Organization structures have challenges which hinder their production rates, quality, and standards of Goods and services (Abrar, 2014). In this organization structure, some of the challenges include lack of co-operation from different people who work independently, the diversity gap between the managers and employees and workforce wastage. Changes in technology can be a challenging factor enhancing organization complexity; this may consume time as new technology requires proper training on employees to capture new features of the systems to produce high standards of Goods and services. Australian wheat Board Company may face challenges of low productions and low distribution of Goods and services to both domestic and international markets as in this organization structure there is a minimum number of markers shares. The company has not emphasized so much on marketing skills which act as a crucial part in determining the market power. However, AWB company owning well strategicall y level of management, they are likely to come up with best solutions of changes and good decision making as every aspect of the structure is observed. Employees are well supervised and motivated to produce more services and goods to their customers. This good supervisory skill of employees signifies that the company will still run in an appropriate manner as each department is well supervised even if there is independence in departmental functionalities. Most Likely System Acquisition Method Aquinas, (2008) support that the type of goods, the size of the organization in terms of revenues, employees and market share power determines the kind of system a company can operate. The probable acquisition method suitable for this organization is commercial software. Commerce software is suitable for this medium-sized business as it is easier to implement into the existing systems without customization and lack of restrictions and limits to users maintain. This software is very reliable and a well-arranged feature makes it the best when managing Data off all the clients and members of staff. The successful company analysis accounting records then audit financial statement and advance to reliable technology that provides high accuracy of data. The statement indicates that a reliable and economical software will be the best suitable for the company. The data integrity and redundancy will be controlled if AWB Company acquires commercial software. This software is common to many professional and it will provide the accuracy required in the data processing. AWB will incur low cost when maintaining this type of system or when purchasing a relative system. Despite the software being efficient and convenient for use Australian wheat Board Company should also check on demerits of this software. If a demerit outweighs merits then Australian wheat board should look for alternatives (Ralph, 2013). Australian wheat Board Company will have to pay annual fees for this software for them to use it. Commercial software also may contribute to failure to meet a specification and goals for users and this will require the input from a professional firm which is costly. Despite this challenges, it is clear that small and medium based business should adopt this type of software as it will run the organization effectively and efficient to enable the o rganization to attain their set goals and targets (Ashutosh, 2006). System flowchart of the Company Sales Procedures A system flow chart defines how decisions are implemented in the organization to control events and display data flow. This means that data processes are monitored through several stages before organization emphasis on a certain policy and implement decisions (Takahara, Mesarovic, 2014). In sales procedures, completion of prospective stage signifies the engagement beginning between customer and vendor. sales process consist of several steps depending on the type of products produced by a certain company, some of this steps includes initial contact, planning to sell, approach, assessment, presentations and follow-ups .flow chart provides easier presentations of the sales, analysis of sales reports and also enables future predictions of sales trends. Accounting information system communicates with the external environment through set standards which show the relationship in the existing system components and how components interact with system (Ashutosh, 2006). Australia wheat Board Company will follow the flow chart as illustrated below majority below. The system data flow summarizes the steps which the organization uses to maintain the competitive. Initial contact is approached, customers. Sales representative approaches customer face-to-face or through calls and introduces them to products produced by the firm through samples. They also persuade them on merits they will get including after sale services once they become customers of the firm (Martin, 2014). The selling stage follows whereby they sell their products to customers approached before or their existing customers. They also assess their products and presentations are done to proof customers that their products are of high quality and meet valuable standards. Follow-ups is the final stage whereby the firm follows up with customers to get the feedback about produces quality, taste and also got some ideas from them on where improvement is needed. The firm reviews all comments from the customers and corrects where the products might not meet needs of customers (Shahzad, Ma thew, 2010). Control Problems in the System The commerce system depends on system developers experts to troubleshoot the commands in case of system failure. This may encounter loss of data or manipulates data. This puts a company at risk of inaccuracy records in customer perception enabling users losing confidence in the system and also may result in some costs of compensation and maintenance Development and Adoption of the accounting software Packages Accounting information systems refer to computer software for processing and recording accounting transaction within different modules. The software may be acquired from software developer or in-house by the business. The adoption of accounting software in Australia is at a very high rate among the small business compared to other countries. The high rate of this adoption is to simplify the work and increase accuracy on computations involved in accounts (Eric, Yvonne, 2012). It is also flexible and generates an automatic report which maintains data integrity and confidence among the users. Through adoption of the system's data the firm gains competitive advantage as the flow of work is faster and data backups are done through cloud computing to ensure that in the case of system failures data will be well preserved (Masaaki, 2016). The Current Market Size The market share has effectively increased in size for both small size business and medium base business; this has been enhanced through the marking power of customers having confidence in accounting softwares systems. Popular companies using accounting system has paved a way for more employment opportune as system developer and designer are employed every day to debug these systems. Leaders in the market and their competitive advantage The global market has experienced a higher level of technology in accounting softwares system. MCBA Inc. is currently leading accounting software manufacturer for Digital Equipment (Martin 2014). The softwares with customized features and well debugged have gained favor in the market as leading companies are approaching them. In-house softwares developer has also been able to design attractive interfaces and design softwares on higher qualities. The huge competition is experienced when A Reckon Company designs advanced and personal financial software all in one. However, this company gains huge profits due to their limited competition in Australia. Current challenges for users of accounting software packages and the relevant recommendations Security threats and attack from malicious softwares had been one of the challenges the accounting softwares are facing in the modern world. Problems such as illiteracy among the system users, internet failures, and technology changes have been encountered (Steven, Tim, 2009). Despite all this problems strategies to curb these problems had been found with users being trained well on systems. Security measures such as authentications, predicate cryptography, and information-centric security have been implemented to secure this system. I would, therefore, recommend that in future effective firewalls to be used to control network traffics and cloud computing data backups to be used to maintain data integrity and restore data in case information is manipulated. Bibliography Abrar, H, 2014, Business Technologies in Contemporary Organizations:Adoption, Assimilation and Institutionalization, IGI Global. Aquinas, PG 2008, Organization Structure Design:Applications Challenges, EXCEL BOOKS, New Delhi, Inda. Ashutosh, D 2006, Digital Accounting:The Effects of the Internet ERP on Accounting, IGI Global. Takahara, Y., Mesarovic, M. (2014). Organization Structure. Boston, Ma, Springer Us. eBook: Bibliographic data : English. Eric, GF Yvonne, R 2012, Growing Pains:Transitioning from an Enterprenuership to a Professionally Managed Firm, 4th edn, Wiley. James, AH 2008, Accounting Information Systems, 6th edn, Rob Dewey. Martin, R 2014, Top Stocks 2015:A Stokebuyer`s Guide to Leading Australian Companies, 21st edn, Wiley. Masaaki, K 2016, Human- Computer Interaction:Theory, Design, Development Practice, Springer. Ralph, D 2013, Accounts for Solicitors, 2nd edn, Routledge. Shahzad, U Mathew, T, 2010, Research in Accounting in Emerging Economies, 10th edn, Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, Wagon Lane, UK. Steven, P Tim, R 2009, Custom Wooden Sign Company, Lulu.com. Vasconcellos, JA 2004, Ouality Assurance for the Food Industry:A Practical Approach, CRC Press, Florida. Yasmine, M Huub, L. 2014, Food Safety Management: A Practical Guide for the Food Industry, Elsevier. Yasuhiko, T Mihajlo, M 2012, Organizational Structure:Cybernetics Systms Foundation, 22nd edn, Springer, N.Y.

The Story Of An Hour Essays - Smoking, Habits, Tobacco, Cigarettes

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The Scarlet Letter - Scaffol Scenes Essays - English-language Films

The Scarlet Letter - Scaffol Scenes Essays - English-language Films The Scarlet Letter - Scaffol Scenes The scaffold scenes are by far the most popular means of pointing out the perfect balance and structure of Hawthornes masterpiece. The first time we meet all the principal characters of the novel is in the first scaffold scene. The second of three crucial scaffold scenes appears exactly in the middle of the novel. Again, Hawthorne gathers all of his major characters in one place. Hawthorne brings all the principal characters together one more time in the third and final scaffold scene. This scene begins with the triumph of Dimmesdales sermon and ends with his death. These scenes unite the plot, themes, and symbols of the novel in a perfect balance. The basic structure for the novel is provided by the scaffold scenes because everything else revolves around what happens during these scenes. The first scaffold scene focuses on Hester and the scarlet letter. Hester stands alone with Pearl in her arms, a mere infant and sign of her sin. Meanwhile, a crowd of townspeople has gathered to watch her humiliation and to hear a sermon. Two important people in the crowd our Roger Chillingworth and Arthur Dimmesdale. Chillingworth, Hesters husband just returned from his long journey to America. Her lover, Dimmesdale, shares her platform as a sinner but not her public humiliation. Dimmesdale is present throughout the whole scene but he is very hesitant to admit that his is the secret lover, although Mr. Wilson is pestering him to find out who it is. He doesnt admit because he is afraid if he does confess it will ruin his reputation as a person and as a minister. Chillingworth demands Hester to give him the name of her partner in sin but she will not do so. In this scene, we have Hesters public repentance, Dimmesdales reluctance to admit his own guilt, and the beginning of Chillingworths devilish plot to find and punish the father of Pearl. The second scaffold scene again provides a view of all the principal characters, a dramatic vision of the scarlet A, and one of the most memorable representations in American literature. In the covering of darkness, Dimmesdale made his way to the scaffold to perform a silent vigil of his own. Dimmesdale is having a difficult time dealing with his own guilt, the reasoning for his late night stand on the scaffold. In his torture he suddenly cries out a shriek of agony that is heard by Hester and Pearl on their journey home from the dying bed of Governor Winthrop. After hearing this shriek both Hester and Pearl join Dimmesdale on the scaffold. Pearl then asks Dimmesdale if he will be joining her and Hester there at noontime on the next day. Dimmesdale responds that their meeting will be on the great judgement day, rather than here in the daylight. Hawthorne describes the situation as such, And there stood the minister, with his hand over his heart; and Hester Prynne, with the embroidered letter glimmering on her bosom; and little Pearl, herself a symbol, and the connecting link between the two of them. (Hawthorne 144). The cry of Dimmesdale was also heard by two other people, they were Mr. Wilson and Chillingworth. Mr. Wilson thought that Dimmesdale was upset about Governor Winthrops death so he thought nothing of the incident. Chillingworth was spotted by Pearl when a large meteor burns through the dark sky. Although Chillingworth said nothing to the three, his reasoning for standing there staring at them is very mysterious. This is when Hester and Dimmesdale start to wonder if he knows the truth about them. The people of the town thought that the meteor symbolized the scarlet A. This scene flourishes with symbols. They include: the scaffold itself; Dimmesdales silent vigil; the three observers that represent Church (Mr.Wilson), State (Governor Winthrop), and the World of Evil (Chillingworth); the connection between Hester, Pearl, and Dimmesdale; and the meteor. The final scaffold scene occurs after the procession on Election Day. In this powerful scene, Dimmesdale regains his soul, Pearl gains her humanity, Chillingworth loses his victim, and Hester loses her dreams. Here again, the main characters come together, and Dimmesdale reveals his scarlet letter. After Dimmesdale delivered his Election Day sermon, he stood on the scaffold with his lover and his child and confessed his sin to everyone. Suddenly the minister sinks down on the scaffold and dies. Right before Dimmesdale died Pearl leaned down and kissed the minister, then she started to

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Yogesh Chander Deveshwar Itc Limited Commerce Essay

Yogesh Chander Deveshwar Itc Limited Commerce Essay Yogesh Chander Deveshwar  is the Chairman of  ITC Limited, one of the Indias largest multi-business corporations. Yogesh Chander Deveshwar was born  on 4th February 1947 in  Lahore. He completed his Bachelor Degree in  Mechanical Engineering from IIT, Delhi and Harvard business school  in 1968. He is also known as Yogi as his friends use to call him by this name. In 1968 yogi was chosen by Ajit Narain Haksar and he was the First Indian Chairman for the Company. He is working with ITC from the last 41 years and has worked in virtually every arm of ITC. He was appointed as the Board of director of the Company in 1984, between 1991 and in the year 1994 he took the charge of the Chairman and Managing Director of the Air India. On Jan 1st, 1996 he became the Chief Executive and Chairman of ITC Company. He is also the Chairman of ITCs wholly owned subsidiary, ITC InfoTech India Limited, and its subsidiaries in the UK and USA. Under leadership of Y C Deveshwar, the company has c onsolidated and strengthened its diversified businesses and hotels. Deveshwar is the man who guided ITCs successful into new growth areas including agriculture business, retail and distribution and branded FMCG goods.   On sep.3 2012 by The Central Government of India has nominated him as the director in Reserve Bank of India for four years. He worked for the confederation of Indian Industry. He was also worked for so many educational institutes like Board of Governors at the Indian School of business and even he was the former chairman of society and the Board of Governors at the Indian Institute of Management Kolkata. He also worked for the National Executive Committee of Indias Premier trade. In 2006 he was awarded by Lakshya Business Visionary award this award was given to him by the students of National Institute of Industrial Engineering Mumbai. Lakshya Business Visionary award was given him by Mr. Jayant Patil and they salutes to Y C Deveshwar to guide the nation to success through the diligence and as they were committed. Deveshwar is ranked third on the list of the Indias best CEOs between 1995 and 2011. In the Year 2001, by Ernst Young, Y C Deveshwar was awarded with the Manager Entrepreneur Award. He was also inducted to the prestigious Hall of Pride at the Indian Science Congress in January 2006 and in the year 2006 he was awarded as the Business Person of the Year Award by the UK Trade Investment. In the year 2007 he was awarded by the Sustainability Leadership Award. Mr. Deveshwar had also been honoured with the Global Leadership Award by the US Chamber of Commerce. In 2011 Government of India Awarded him by Padma Bhushan award one of the highest civilian award for contributed his service of a high order to the nation. Strategic leadership refers to a managerial potential which express a strategic vision for the growth of organization and to motivate the employees to acquire the vision. Strategic leader creates organizational structure that is focused towards the business which allocates resources that understand business goals and objectives to express strategic vision which is a set of the organizational vision. Strategic Leadership ia a leadership which provides the vision and direction for the growth and success of any organization. As change has become repeatability in organizations, all employees need the skills and tools for strategy implementation. Being a strategic leader, he requires the capability to understand business priorities and their long term and short term goals. Leadership better equipped to not only thinks more incisively about future competitive advantage, but your organization will have greater strategic focus at every level, beginning with the top management team.-Gerald L. Kiser, president CEO The  process  of  using  well considered  tactics  to communicate a vision for an  organization  or one of its  parts. Strategic leadership typically  manages, motivates and persuades  staff  to  share  that same vision, and can be an important  tool  for implementing  change  or creating  organizational structure  within a  business. The true meaning of strategic leadership is nothing more than the ability to anticipate, prepare, and get positioned for the future. It is the ability to mobilize and focus resources and energy on things that make a difference and will position you for success in the future. Effective strategic leadership focuses on the long term rather than solely on the short term. (The Center for Management and Organizational Effectiveness) Strategic leadership is defined as practicing existing abilities and skills and influencing others to train in new formats for new leadership models. Specifically, to obtain successful educational management within the organization.(Barron, 1995) Bernard M Bass developed a system and in this system or model he divided leadership in four different types based on the main two objectives which are task oriented and people oriented. There are some main styles of leadership which is explained below: A directive leader will always tell his colleagues and explain that what to do, how to do and when to do but he should have a good control on them then only he can make his followers to work under him. A consultative leader will always take the decision with the help of his colleagues and he will always conduct a meeting before take any decision. A participative leader The participative leader puts himself as a member of the team and discusses possible decisions with the team. He seeks consensus before coming to a decision and everyone is supposed to take ownership in the final decision. The negotiative leader employs a more political approach to leadership. He has a personal interest in his decisions and he uses incentives to entice his followers to do certain things. Situational leadership refers to when the leader or manager of an organization must adjust his style to fit the development level of the followers he is trying to influence Y C Deveshwar, being one of the prominent and effective hospitality leaders in the hospitality industry. He posses two different styles of leadership which he executes in his career to bring up the ITC group in different sectors with new ideas. Y C Deveshwar, being one of the effective leader , he practices participative leadership style in which he considers the ideas and views of his colleagues and then only he use to takes the decision. In this style of leadership all the BODs will seat together and then only they will take the decision for the company future. All the BODs has to share their views and ideas and on the base of that only they will take the correct decision. Y C Deveshwar always seat with these people and he will also discuss his views and ideas which enthusiastically increases the morale of the employees working under him. Before make any decision he will always ask his subordinates and then only he will come to the decision. He always use to ask his company members to take participate in the meetings and share their ideas or views which they can apply in the company. Even though, the sharing of such ideas and views always helps the company to come up with many innovative ideas and this practices always be nefit the company in a very beneficial way. He preferably want his all Board of Directors should be present in all company meetings, so that they all can sit together and figure out the possible decisions which will benefit the company with maximum profits with minimal loss and also helps to achieve the company objectives. Y C Deveshwar also executes another leadership style which is being a Delegative Leader in which he concentrates only on decision making, and allows his subordinates to take their own course of action. He always gathers his team to discuss possible decisions that could be adopted and help the company to expand and even give high profits. In todays world, ITC has more than 15 products in the market and it is very difficult to handle all the different sectors of the ITC products. Being having Delegative leadership qualities, Y C Deveshwar has divided the different sectors to different managers who will take the decision on monthly basis and they have to inform the steps which they are going to take for company benefits. Y C Deveshwar is a strategic leader. He has some leadership qualities which made him a strategic leader. Strategic leadership is all about the leading, guiding and innovate the new ideas. Strategic leadership is all about leading, influencing and guiding the organising team members to think strategically about their own duties and responsibilities which require the potential to comprehend the work place and environment. It requires potentiality to look at the wider picture which has a vast perspective and they dont need skills in their narrow specialty but they have a good working knowledge and experience about the things that are organizational importance. Adapting strategy to a changing business requirement is must if the organisation wants to remain valuable to the business. The process which assess the leadership talent to lead the change which enables the business to meet its objectives which changes the adaptability of the organisation. Strategic leaders must have zeal to work accordingly which goes beyond money and power and also the investment in their people to motivate them, to achieve the goals of the organisation with determination. Strategic leaders are able to plan and execute a range of possibilities of several stages ahead for the development of the organisation. For a Hospitality Leader, there must be a equalised focus to understand the function which provides the value towards the organization. At the time he joined the ITC Company, it was facing a very bad time. He came and started expanding the business and they entered into the hospitality industry till that company was only in the Tobacco business but at the time Y C Deveshwar entered into company it became the multi-business company. He takes the company to the so many new other business which increased the sale of the company and company has shown a good growth in all the areas ex: Agriculture business, retail business and distribution of branded FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods). As we said he has good creative mind so he used that in the company applied his strategic ideas and because of that today ITC is most valuable Business in India. In 1991there were two major turning points: the company appointed him as the chairman of ITCs Indian Tobacco Division and Indian Leaf Tobacco Development Division; the government handpicked him to be the Chairman and Managing Director of Air India. Y C Deveshwar was not successful in turning around the declining fortunes of the national carrier; he tried to push forward the idea of merging Indian Airlines and Air-India and then privatizing them as a joint entity. Partly the problem lay in the way the groups top management was structured. At the time Y C Deveshwar joined the ITC group, the main income source was only Tobacco Company and the Board of Directors was directly responsible to take decisions. Y C Deveshwar reduces the number from executive team and board became the management arm of company and all the decision started taking by the responsible executives of the different market products. A leader always creates big demands on people. A good leader is always responsible for the vision and goals of an organisation. Unless and until the leader is strong enough the organisation will not survive. So it is very important for the leader to get self-motivated in all the situations. He should be enthusiastic and should feel responsible in the work he does. T hey should always be aware of serving his organisation and also the employees. When Y C Deveshwar joined the ITC group that time ITC is mainly known only for the tobacco products but he joined and he start investing in other business because of him today ITC has more than 15 products and he is only that person who started ITC hotels. I conclude with a brief review of a leader and his qualities and his characteristics. This essay explains that for a smooth and safe running of business a strategic leader is the most important, effective and responsible person where he has to lead his team towards to achieve the organisational goal. A leader has to always build good relation with his all employees and company members; a leader has to satisfy their basic needs that they can work more effectively in the business. This literature also sought out the styles of a leader. It is also important that the organisation should follow the hierarchy in an organisation. Always the top level management should implement their strategies on middle level management and the middle level management should make sure that the strategies given by the top level management are being targeted by low level management. This essay also explains about Mr. Y C Deveshwar history, education, achievements, awards and the different ideas or his views which he contributed within the working in hospitality industry, his different styles, his successful moments, his hard work and his challenges and how did he solve out the challenges successfully. The way which he used to face the different challenges where there was staff turn was very qualitative. Y C Deveshwar always uses to motivate his employees that they can help organisation to achieve the goals. In The end I concluded that Mr. Y C Deveshwar is a successful leader for ITC organisation and he was awarded by the best entrepreneur in the hospitality sector. He is also planning to expand ITC Company in coming years and they are already ready to launch their hotel in Sri Lanka and Nepal. References Management Study Guide: Strategic Leadership Definition and Qualities of a Strategic Leader Strategic Actions: Strategic Leadership. http://www.itcportal.com/about-itc/itc-leadership/board-of-directors.aspx www.wikipedia.com http://www.managementstudyguide.com/strategic-leadership.htm http://article.wn.com/view/2012/09/05/Y_C_Deveshwar_nominated_as_director_on_RBIs_Central_Board http://www.eauc.org.uk/image_uploads/logo_large.jpg Module Strategic Leadership in Hospitality Tourism management Assignment Topic Crisis Leadership B3150 Submitted By 12009871 Module Co-ordinator: Mrs. Gayathri Desai Mrs. Jayapradha K. Word count-2151 The word crisis has originates from the Greek word Krisis which means judgment, choices or decisions. It appears that three elements must be present: a triggering event causing significant change or having the potential to cause significant change; the perceived inability to cope with this change; and a threat to the existence of organizations (Keown-McMullan, 1997) as well as of tourists and members of the tourism industry (Henderson, 2006). Every crisis is unique displaying a remarkable range and variety (Henderson, 2006), yet characteristics generally cited include unexpectedness, urgency and danger (Hermann, 1972). Tourism crises usually share these attributes although certain crisis situations can be predicted and lack  immediacy. Crisis Management is the management and coordination of your institutions responses to an incident that threatens to harm, or has harmed, your institutions people, structures, ability to operate, valuables and/or reputation. It takes into account you r planning and automatic incident response, but must also dynamically deal with situations as they unfold, often in unpredictable ways. Crisis is not a pathological state; it may occur to anyone at any stage in his or her life span. (Golan, 1978). A crisis is any situation that has the potential to affect long term confidence in an organisation or a product, or which may interfere with its ability to continue operating normally.(Pauchant and Mitroff). Crisis can be defined and situation which can affects the whole organisation and as well as the employees of organisation. Crisis can also be described as an unexpected event leading to major unrest amongst the individuals at the work place. Crisis is a sequence of un expected events which can be harmful for an organisation. Crisis can affect the whole organisation as well as individuals. Organization crisis is a low-probability, high-impact event that threatens the viability of the organization and is characterized by cause, effect as well as by a belief that decisions must be made swiftly. (Pearson and Clair, 1998). Crisis Management is the art of dealing with the unexpected events which can affects the employees, whole business as well as client refers to crisis management. Crisis management  is the process by which an organization deals with a major event that threatens to harm the organization, its stakeholders, or the general public. Crisis management can be defined as a process of handling unexpected changes in the organization culture. There is a vital need of knowing the importance of CMP in the organisation which will directly help the employees to understand as well as to cooperate with the organisation at the time of crisis or after the crisis. Having an effective CMP, it helps the manager to make the strategies to come out of certain conditions and helps to decide for the future execution of plans. Crisis management also includes the processes which helps the managers and even thou staff also to understand the unexpected events. Crisis management will helps the staff to take the eff ective action. Types of crises Natural crises Natural crisis is a disaster which occurs without any prior information to any place in the whole world. Natural crisis is further been explained in many manners like earthquakes, landslides, cyclones, volcanic eruptions, floods. Many of the people in the world consider natural crisis as Act Of God. For Example: Earthquake in Indian Ocean with a magnitude of 9.2 at Richter scale on 26 December 2004 which resulted in Tsunami. Technological crises Technological crises are caused by human application of science and technology. Technological accidents inevitably occur when technology becomes complex and coupled and something goes wrong in the system as a whole. Technology failure is something related with power blackouts, computer irregularities, aircraft crashes and even sometimes the nuclear meltdown. Some technological crises occur when human error causes disruptions. When an accident creates significant environmental damage, the crisis is categorized as  mega damage.  Samples include software failures, industrial accidents, and oil spills. For example: Northern Grid Power blackout in almost 22 states of India out of 29 which vitally affected the daily practices of the people living. This technological crisis effected in many places as for travelling, banking services as well as hotel industry too in context with reservations and other inter departmental operations. Terrorist attacks/man-made disasters Terrorist attack is manmade disaster which means it has threats of human body. It involves negligence, an element of human intent and failure of human system and its results can huge loss of life, wealth and buildings and even it also affects the mentality of a person. Recession in 2008-09:- The 2008-2009 recession hit every industry around the world very hard. One of the most affected industries, however, was the hospitality and restaurant industry. Before the recession, oil prices were at all-time high, and hotels and travel companies had already started to see a significant decrease in travel and tourism. The industry which got affected mainly because of recession is of accommodation, traveling and hotel industry. As we do know that the income of many families goes down badly during recession. Some families even lost all sources of income too, which created panic and turmoil in their life. This is why people are saving on traveling and staying back in their home only. This is affecting the hotel industry badly. Not only the family visitors, but hotel industries are also losing their business travelers too. These days companies prefer video conferencing for meeting rather than going overseas for meeting. All these situations caused panic in the h otel industry and they took some instant measures like slashing the rates, increasing marketing costs, and promoting their websites. Some of the hotels are lucky enough to get the support from the government too, but those hotels were very few and they not only survived the recession but came over it very soon. Overall hotel industry is suffering from the recession and I hope very soon they can heal over it. Terrorist Attack:- It is a manmade disaster which results can be a heavy loss of life and which can affects the life of staff as well as guest also. The terrorist attack happened on the Taj Hotel Mumbai on 9/11. They want to create same environment like Marriott attack which happened in Karachi. The person who was there behind Mumbai attack they planned to create an unsecured environment and them wants to reduce the economic strength. Security  would obviously be the most important element of this disaster management plan and guests at five-star hotels should expect to be checked along with their baggages. The way luggage is scanned through x-ray machines in airports, it should be also done in hotels. The screening should start at the very entrance where minimum damage can be done. All the hotels need to have a proper security system and even they should have a good security team that they can immediately take the decision and the team should be always ready to handle this type of situation because at the time of this type of situation if they will call the security team from outside it will take long time till that time they can damage lots of things. All the hotels should make sure that the security especially at entry gate needs to be more strong so that this thing wont be happen again in future. Security systems should be updated by the latest machines and technology. Tsunami and Earthquake: These are the natural disasters which appear without any prior information the last crisis which affects the whole South India was Tsunami in Indian Ocean in year 2004 and because of this crisis there was a lot of wealth, life loss and even buildings were also damaged. This Tsunami has affected all the hotels and all the coastal areas in South India. Indian south-east coastal region looked very normal on December 26, 2004 but as the day started unfolding, tremors were felt in Tamil Nadus capital Chennai and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Then the tsunamis came which engulfed the Andaman and Nicobar islands, the coastline of Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu and parts of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal. Though Orissa and West Bengal recorded minimal or no loss to property and human life, the other regions reported substantial devastation. The hospitality industry in two partly affected Indian states, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala, suffered due to rumors, fu elled by the panic about incoming tidal waves. But now the Indian Govt. is already set to fight with the Tsunami and The Indian Govt. has pledged $30 million to develop a tsunami early warning system to prevent such a large loss of life. There are some steps which an organisation can take to avoid the much loss at the time of when crisis occurs these are also known as pre- crisis pan or post crisis plan. Here I am going to explain some plans which we can take and it is basis on all the three crisis which I have written above which is recession, manmade and natural disaster. As a leader considering recession which is an economy disaster because of that so many people lost their jobs and even the some organisation also has been shut down as a hospitality leader the steps which I will take is that an organisation should have the enough money power that at the time of recession they can pay the salary to staff and even in this situation also they can run their business easily. Being one of the hospitality leader I will make sure that organisation should not get affected and even the staff also should not leave their jobs. Earthquake is a natural disaster and its results can be loss of life and even it can affect the whole business also it can damage the whole building also. So as a leader the pre steps which I will take is that we have to train our staff that when the situation will come they can make a proper plan and help others also and even the staff which is working in organisation they should have proper communication with each other. Terrorist attack is a manmade disaster which can damage the whole organisation and even a heavy loss of life also so for that we have to take some steps in advance that we can save the life of human and not even staff we have to save the guest also as a attack happened on the Taj, Mumbai on 26th Nov. 2008 where so many lost their life. So for this issue first of all we should have a proper security system and through that only all the staffs have to go not only the guest even the staff also. All the hotels should have CCTV cameras on all the floors that they can see the activities which are happening there and even at the time of check in they should have taken the copy of their identity proof. Post crisis plan for all the crisis which is mentioned above is that the organisation should have the proper plans and all the businesses should have enough money power also that they can easily come out from the situation and again they can again come back to the track and run the business smoothly because if they wont able to recover from all these situation then might be they have to close the business also. As a leader the main important thing is that we have to take the steps through which business can easily come out from the crisis and we have to take and even they have to make a proper crisis management plan also. (Major Suresh Goel, 2002) Crisis is a disaster which occurs without any prior information and its results can be a damage of building, life or lives also. It can effect a whole organisation or departments of organisation. Crisis can be natural which includes (earthquake, Cyclones and landslides) and man-made which includes (Terrorist Attack, strikes, sabotages). Crisis leadership is a style which can help an organisation to save the whole organisation or can help to save the lives in organisation for that they have to make a crisis management plan in the organisation. This essay has given a brief introduction about the crisis, types of crisis, how a crisis can occurs and how to make a plan to save the lives in organisation. In this essay some points has given which can help an organisation to make some pre crisis plan or some post crisis plan. In pre-crisis plans we have to make some plans which we can apply in the future or whenever the crisis will going to affect the business it will be more beneficial for organisation at the time of crisis. So, in the last, I like to conclude that every organisation should create the crisis management plans which can help them in the future and it will help them to save the lives of person working in business or organisation.

Ghost Story of Lurking Louis :: Ghost Stories Urban Legends

Lurking Louis Urban legends can be effective conveyors of entertainment and morals. We all have heard urban legends during our lives, whether it was in a dorm room, the dinner table, or around the campfire, but rarely do we take the time to fully appreciate the value of the stories. Urban legends have this rare ability to make us question reality. We have this feeling in our minds that says â€Å"Oh, this cannot possible be real,† but then our imagination questions that and reels us in and plants a lingering doubt. David Emery, a writer and follower of urban folklore, defines urban legends as â€Å"told [to be] true, and plausible enough to be believed.† Besides this lingering suspense, urban legends and similar folklore often have underlying morals that are hard to uncover, but when they are, the stories become clear. When collecting stories, the best and most unique one was a local story native to a town in New York State. I vividly remember how he told the story: There was this rundown, old split-level on the edge of the town owned and inhabited by a young couple. This young couple did not have much money so they had to rent out the basement. The tenant that lived in the basement was a short, old man by the name of Louis. Louis lived there for about a year, but he NEVER came out of the basement. He NEVER answered the door during rent collection but just slid it through the mail slot. After a year, the couple was considering evicting Louis, mostly because they had a fear of Louis and his shady activities in the basement. Also, the couple was due for a baby in the upcoming year and they felt it was best for Louis to go. Louis did not respond well to the eviction however. So, when the couple was cleaning out the apartment, for another tenant, a skeleton fell out of the closet and landed on the floor with a loud CRASH! The couple ran out and called the police. After the whole thing with the police was sorted out, the couple moved out. More famili es would move in, but on the anniversary of the eviction, the Ghost of Louis would appear and haunt the inhabitants of the house, causing them to move out. The cycle continues today, and no one has seen Louis ever again, but rumor is he died after that eviction.

Mr. Mallard’s Story of an Hour Essay

Experimental procedures where destined to be made about the emotion filled story, â€Å"The Story of an Hour† by Kate Chopin. The story details Mrs. Mallard’s situation about how she feels about her husband and the result when she finds that he is not dead. Kate Chopin does a great job telling the reader Mrs. Mallard’s feeling’s, but not at all tells the reader about Mr. Mallard’s point of view. I will be creating a point of view for Mr. Mallard to try and get a better understanding of what could have been the situation between the two. Since the very day I laid eyes on her, I knew she was the one for me. Her beautiful smile and her ecstatic personality made me come to realize that, I had to claim what was spiritually mine. Her name was Louis, a creative and ambitious young woman. All throughout my days of monitoring her every motion, I gained the courage to grow out of my shy state, and make my approach towards her. So from that point on we started engaging in conversation and growing closer to each other day after day. It seemed as if time had flown by faster than it had ever done before in my life. It came to the point that I loved this woman so much; all of my hard earned money I made from my small job down at the local grocery store in town, I took it upon myself to buy a wedding ring. So then I asked her for her hand in marriage, and ever so joyously she replied with such excitement in her voice, yes! Immediately, tears started rolling down my face and all of my best memories were erased, in storing the special memory that took place that very day. We had a simple but elegant wedding ceremony in the local chapel that she and I were both attending previously. â€Å"Mr. and Mrs. Mallard, I now pronounce you husband and wife. The moment I heard those very words, is when I knew I had accomplished my life goal at being happy. She had gone all around town screaming to her family that she is married now and that she will forever be happy for as long as she lives. I took it that we would always be united as one, and that nothing could ever come between the love we both shared. Several years went past and Louise and I seemed to be doing very well in our marriage. I had given her all of me and it seemed that she had given me all of her as well, but I would get an internal feeling that she was not happy in our marriage. Adding up reasons of why she may be unhappy with how things were going, it just did not seem to add up. It had dawned upon me that maybe she did not want to be with me anymore. Personality wise, she had become the total opposite. Before we got married she was kind, passionate, and had a smile that was golden; then she started to grow silent and mean towards me and others around her. For a while I blamed myself for reasons that seemed to be undeserving, and thought that I mistreated her in some unknown way. Unfortunately, Louise was found to have a very bad heart problem and often times she would blame me for her misfortune. As a caring man I would just accept the blame and try to do anything possible to try to make her forget about the condition and live her life fully. My plan always appeared to not succeed and I grew tired of the mistreatment that I clearly did not deserve. I took matters into my own hands and came up with a plan that would determine just how much she felt about me. I came across the daily paper and read about a local railroad disaster that left a number of people dead and injured. My good friend Richards was the side kick in the situation, I had him tell Louise’s sister, Josephine, that my name was on the death list and that she should tell Louise immediately. After receiving notice that my plan was fulfilled, I began to observe Louise’s reactions towards the situation. I hid in the main bedroom closet in a secret passage way that I created for emergency situations years ago. I heard Louise come in crying and sobbing about the news, I became excited that she was crying over my so called death and I felt that she did still love me very much. Hours went past and I became comfortable with the results that I got in my little experiment, but little did I know, Louise became happy with my death and stated that she was â€Å"free† numerous times to herself really loud and joyously. Very confused I asked myself how she switched feelings so quickly and how could she be happy about the situation. She would talk to herself very in-depth about how her life is now that she is independent and fantasizing about all of the days and years to herself that she wanted for so long. I felt so crushed inside because I had given her any and everything that she could possibly want. I took care of her when she was sick, made all of her wishes come true, and took it upon myself to do anything to make her smile. Why she would treat me this way, I asked myself over and over until I became fed up with it. When Louise went to the bathroom I snuck over to Richards’s house and told him what all I found out about and wanted to give her the news that I was not dead. Richards and I walked over back to the house to tell Louise that I was mistakenly put on the death list, and that I was indeed very much alive. I waited outside and let Richards go in the house first to make the plan free of suspicion and got ready to make my approach inside. Boom Boom! My heart was beating very loudly as I was nervous to go inside. I opened the door and Josephine is first to see me; she screams very loudly in shock of my appearance. Richards tries very hard to prevent Louise from seeing me, but was too late in the action. Louise dropped to the floor immediately and had no sign of life in her. I ran to her to see if she was ok holding her very tight, screaming for someone to call the doctor. The doctor arrived within twenty minutes, after only observing her for five minutes he pronounced her dead due to a heart attack. Tears ran down my face as if someone had poured a bucket of water on my head. I began to feel guilty for her death thinking maybe she would still be alive if I had never made that stupid plan in the first place. Thought maybe if I had known how she really felt, I would have just let her be free from me and live her life happily instead of me standing in her way. I learned a very important lesson that day; things in life should not be taken for granted no matter how much you want it to go your way.

buy custom Opiate Addiction essay

buy custom Opiate Addiction essay The paper will introduce opiate addiction and explore its important aspects such its prescription, diagnostic criteria, etiology and opiate prevalence. The paper will also survey manifestation and course of opiate addiction and its differential diagnosis. The treatment of opiate addiction through self help and support groups will be explored in this paper. Assessment of the effectiveness of the available treatment methods will be discussed in detail. The history of medical involvement in opiate addiction is depicted by political disagreements over deviance descriptions. According to Hunt, Milhet Bergeron, the description of opiate abuse has differed from a late 19th century due to lack of concern as a societal problem to 20th century as a criminal offense of those use it (2011). Opiate addiction is pathological condition although in instances where opiates leads to addiction the amount of time involved cannot be simply predetermined (Hunt, Milhet Bergeron, 2011). Prescription Opiate Addiction Worldwide there is a serious worry for opiate addiction and opiate overdose deaths. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) defines drug abuse as the use of a Schedule II through Schedule V drug in a way or quantity that is incoherent with the medical or social pattern of culture (Lowinson, 2005). Schedule V drug refers to a class of drugs that have a small prospective for abuse or addiction. Opiate dependency in the addiction field is more than taking a large quantity of opiates. Lowinson (2005) says that a patient who takes a prescribed opiate on a regular basis may become physically dependant on the medication but is hardly an addict unless the patients behaviour meets the The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM) diagnostic criteria for opiate dependence (Hunt, Milhet Bergeron, 2011). Surveys have found fundamental increase in misuse of hydrocodone and oxycodone products. These are opiates and their availability has remained relatively stable from 1994 to 1999. Prescription opiate abuse relates to the inherent abuse liability of the prescribed opiate and its distraction from the intended route of distribution (Lowinson, 2005). Prescription opiate abuse is associated with certain pharmacologic properties. Opiates include morphine, heroin, codeine, meperidine, and hydromorphone. Heroin is available only unlawfully in the United States. Opiates are frequently used for pain control (Murphy CowanBottom of Form, 2008) Diagnostic Criteria The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition (DSM) delineates the diagnostic criteria for prescription opiate dependence and abuse. Opiate addiction is characterized by significant level of tolerance defined by the need for markedly increased quantities of opiate to attain intoxication or desired effect (DSM, 2000). For opiate dependence, tolerance is also defined by diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of opiate (DSM, 2000). Individuals also experience withdrawal which is marked by the typical withdrawal syndrome for opiates and remarkable withdrawal symptoms of dysphoric mood, nausea or vomiting, muscle aches, lacrimation or rhinorrhea, diarrhea, yawning, fever, insomnia, gooseflesh, sweating (DSM, 2000). Opiates are also taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms. The central feature of opiate diagnostic criteria is continued use of the drug despite persistent and recurrent social, occupational, psychological, or physical problems caused by the use of the drug (DSM, 2000). For opiate addiction to be diagnosed at least three signs must be present. Individuals desire for the drug persists (Hunt, Milhet Bergeron, 2011). The signs include craving for an opioid drug, rhinorrhea or sneezing,lacrimation, muscle aches or cramps, abdominal cramps and nausea or vomiting (DSM, 2000). Opiate addiction is not restricted to low socioeconomic classes even though the prevalence of opiate dependence is greater in these groups than in higher socioeconomic classes (Sadock, Kaplan Virginia, 2007). Sadock, Kaplan Virginia (2007) noted that social factors associated with urban poverty possibly contribute to opiate dependence. Studies indicate that 50 percent of urban opiate users are children of single parents or divorced parents and are from families in which at least one other member has a substance related disorder (Sadock, Kaplan Virginia, 2007). Children from such settings are at high risk for opiate dependence particularly if they also evidence behavioral in school or other signs of conduct disorder (Sadock, Kaplan Virginia, 2007). Sadock, Kaplan Virginia (2007) indicated that some consistent behaviour patterns seem to be especially pronounced in adolescents with opiate dependence (p. 445). Opiate addicted individuals experience behavioral powerlessness counterac ted by disturbances in social and interpersonal relationships with peers maintained by mutual substance experiences (Sadock, Kaplan Virginia, 2007). Prevalence The prevalence of opiate addiction is determined by several factors. The first one is availability of the drugs. This implies that the greater the availability, the greater frequency of addiction (Souhami Moxham, 2002). The second factor is the accessibility of the drug. This explains the virtual commonness of drug addiction amongst doctors and nurses and in big cities and coastal areas in a certain state or country (Souhami Moxham, 2002). Souhami Moxham (2002) noted that the most important cause of opiate addiction is its availability. Availability of opiates means that susceptible individual expose themselves to the drug, either because they inhabit a subculture in which drug taking is prevalent, or because they are psychologically susceptible owing to family difficulties, dejection or boredom (Souhami Moxham, 2002). Murphy CowanBottom of Form (2008) says that opiate use and abuse are common in the United States. Prevalence for heroin dependence is about 0.1 percent, and prescription pain reliever dependence is about 0.6 percent. People who use opiates recreationally become addicted (Murphy CowanBottom of Form, 2008). Manifestation and Course of Addiction Pharmacological features of opiates tolerance and withdrawal syndrome ensure the establishment of a habit, and as well as physiological factors that enable people to maintain the addiction and make rehabilitation difficult (Souhami Moxham, 2002). Souhami Moxham (2002) indicated that it is possible that individuals susceptible to addiction may genetically be deficient in endorphins and hence opiate hungry (pg. 243). Opiates reduce the amount and effects of other cerebral neurotransmitters such as acetycholine (Souhami Moxham, 2002). In their research, Souhami Moxham (2002) also articulated that cerebral neurotransmitters has led to the super sensitivity theory of withdrawal syndrome, which postulates tha addicted individuals have reduced amounts of transmitter reaching postsynaptic receptors. Halting opiates results in a sudden increase in transmitter and stimulation of the already supersensitive receptor. Continued use of opiates causes long term transformations in the brain that can be successfully treated with prescriptions (Fulco, Liverman Earley, 1995). Opiate withdrawal occurs when an individual with a chronic opiate addict abruptly stops or dramatically reduces opiate use. Miller Gold (2011) says that although abandonment from opiates causes bodily discomfort, it is not life threatening. Miller Gold (2011) established that the most general treatment for opiate withdrawal is methadone alternative; in which methadone is replaced with the drug for the addicted person and then slowly reduced once the patient is soothed (p. 102). Since methadone has a longer half-life than other opiates, the withdrawal and threats of difficulties are reduced, creating a smoother treatment. Furthermore, methadone can be orally given since it is a long-acting agent (Miller Gold, 2011). The DSM differential diagnosis Differential diagnosis enables a clinician or practitioner to characterize a disorder from another disorder that has similar features and criteria. The diagnosis of opiate addiction is generally obvious after a careful history of mental status and physical examinations (DSM, 2000). Opiate addiction is characterized by difficulties in solving problems, focusing on reading and writing and understanding what others say DSM (2000). The symptoms of opiate-related disorders are equivalent to the substance use disorders of Nicotine dependence, Nicotine Withdrawal, Cocaine Intoxication and Amphetamine or Phencyclidine Intoxication. DSM (2000) noted that opiate addicted patients like mental disorder victims experience a maladaptive pattern of drug use leading to clinically important distress. Opiate dependence is illustrated by the incapacity to stop taking opiate drugs or medications (Junig, 2008). Opiate addicts have a fascination to use opiate prescription that persists even after months or years, when withdrawal has long passed (Junig, 2008). Junig (2008) noted that opiate addiction is infuriating to the individual addicted and to his or her loved ones. Life for an opiate addict revolves around the drug because the addict is preoccupied with finding the subsequent prescription so as to evade becoming dope sick (Junig, 2008). Stine Kosten (1997) noted that there are two imperative characteristics of opiate dependence which include; easiness, regarded as a deteriorating drug effect after frequent administration and reliance exposed by a withdrawal condition after immediate discontinuation of opiate exposure. Opiates cause both bodily and psychosomatic dependence (Stine Kosten, 1997). Subsequently, regular prescription of opiates, going over a long period of time forms a physiological need for its sustained use (Lindesmith, 2008). Lindesmith (2008) established that when regular use is bunged, a number of worrying symptoms materialize, rising in sternness in quantity to the period of dependence and depending upon the amount and regularity of the dosage (p. 28). Researchers say that sustained use of opiates leads to an episodic, synthetically produced gloominess and distress which fades away instantaneously upon reiteration of the dosage. Within a period of three weeks of daily use, the moderation symptoms apparently increase at faster tempo and swiftly become very harsh and even treacherous (Lindesmith, 2008). Opiate drugs can simultaneously interrelate with major types of receptors in the brain and act as an agonist (Fulco, Liverman Earley, 1995). The prejudiced outcomes of opiates are arbitrated through activities at mu opioid receptors, and intrusion with actions at these receptors causes a rational plan for coming up with medications for opiate dependence (Fulco, Liverman Earley, 1995). Studies show that among the numerous effects of opiate drugs on neurons are alterations in gene expression. The modifications in gene expression are identified as significant in this type of dependence because of its steady and progressive expansion and the perseverance of many of its characteristics long after discontinuation of drug exposure (Fulco, Liverman Earley, 1995). In addition, opiates can manage some transcription features that are significant in neuronal gene expression. The idea of narcotics anonymous self-help group is a traditional and a valued approach of treatment to many drug addiction problems (Ghodse, 2010). Narcotics Anonymous is a support group for individuals suffering from drug addiction. Narcotics anonymous (NA) self help groups is a group of individuals with comparable problems who meet together willingly to help themselves. Opiate self help groups help individuals become ascetic (Ghodse, 2010). Ghodse (2010) says that there is an underlying philosophy that it is impossible for an individual to overcome opiate addiction alone, but that this can be achieved with the help of the group (p. 173). Self help groups also provide mutual aid of people helping each other by offering companionship and sharing universal experiences (Ghodse, 2010). Ghodse (2010) indicated that self help groups provide group support, social recognition and social personality for individuals who may have become very isolated because of their drug problem. Opiate addicts in established groups have access to a wide range of experience and build up skills and knowledge that may be genuine and realistic help to those trying to manage with opiate addiction (Miller Gold, 2011). Since those who able to cope with abstinent continue to attend the group for a while, new members are able to meet and identify with such people (Ghodse, 2010). These groups provide a life-long supportive program for sustained recovery. This is because opiate dependence is a chronic disorder in which there are many reversions (StellmaTop of Form. 1998). Self help groups are open to everyone with any type of drug problem and the only prerequisite for membership is the aspiration to stop using drugs (Ghodse, 2010). The approach of self help groups is based on the idea of addiction as a spiritual and therapeutic disease that can be prohibited but never cured. Opiates addicts follow the twelve steps stipulated in NA and AA programme for attaining abstinence (Ghodse, 2010). Ghodse (2010) indicated that the twelve traditions of AA and NA safeguard the freedom of the group by outlining the principles that guide its organization and administration (pg. 174). The groups are autonomous, self supporting and decline outside contributions (Ghodse, 2010). The members of opiate dependence self help groups attend meetings recurrently (Ghodse, 2010). Ghodse (2010) noted that during the meetings there is often a discussion based on the Twelve Steps and huge amount of emphasis is placed on complete openness and honesty with other members of the group (pg. 174). As an approach towards individuals recovery, the single shared common issue creates a strong bond between the members (Ghodse, 2010). New members of the group are encouraged to look for a sponsor within the group, a particular person to turn to during incidents of great need. The mandate of being a sponsor can be rewarding for the person concerned (Ghodse, 2010). Support Groups Support groups differ from self help groups in the way they are organized and run (Ghodse, 2010). Support groups offer the third form of opiate addiction treatment. Ghodse (2010) noted that support groups are run by a professional but they offer similar caring and non-critical environment (pg. 175). The support groups play a fundamental role to individuals who are parents and they and their children have exceptional needs which can be taken care of to some extent in an informal group setting. For opiate addicts support groups assist in mutual support between the members by providing them with a time and place to meet (Ghodse, 2010). Ghodse (2010) indicated that for addicts who are parenting, support groups gives them a chance whereby they can chat about general child-care matters and important aspects of bringing up their families. Opiate dependence parents need this support but they may be reluctant to attend an ordinary playgroup because of anxiety about their drug problem (Ghodse, 2010). Support groups are accommodating to those who have just come off opiates and who are still at risk of going back to opiate use (Ghodse, 2010). Ghodse (2010) established that those who are near the end of a detoxification programme for example taking less than 10-15 mg methadone daily may also attend self help group (pg. 196). Support groups are regularly organized as part of the total programme of services of an expert clinic. They are also organized by voluntary agencies as one component of community response to opiate abuse problem (Ghodse, 2010). Support groups should use Yaloms principles were leaders learn the maintenance of stable groups, culture building and the use of the here and now group leadership skills (Haight Gibson, 2005). Haight Gibson (2005) noted that Yaloms principles help group leaders to carry out subgroupings, resolving crises in the groups, social reinforcement and act as transitional objects in the support groups. T Narcotics Anonymous Experience I attended a Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meeting so as to learn what actually goes on in such meetings. The group is well directed by a leader who ensures that no one is placed out of their profundity without intending to do so themselves. The meetings run for 60 to 90 minutes. In each meeting one of the twelve steps is read and discussed. They usually start with a word of prayer from the group leader and then afterwards Chapter 2 of the AA Big Book is read. The topics of discussion include the twelve steps and traditions of AA. Majority of the group affiliates are enthusiastically willing to read this narrative. Everyone is encouraged to get a sponsor to stand behind him or her. For example, with the analysis of the sponsor story we examined the significance of identifying a sponsor for constant support. After reading, the group member discussed about her understanding of how he or she used her sponsor over the last week. After the introduction, the group leader asked if there were newcomers or members attending the meeting for the second time. At the same time a list was passed around for anyone who intends to be contacted over the week or wanted to be a sponsor. Afterwards, one group member narrated his opiate addiction tale. The meeting was then opened for general discussion among the members. All members reviewed their weekly progress according to set procedure. During this time other group members were discouraged from commenting on the individual check-in report. The group leader made brief summary comments that recognized and positively reinforced behavioral changes that established that the group members was making an effort to achieve moderation and stability. After the break, the group members were asked to list common early warning signs of dejection, obsession and opiate addiction setbacks. Members were requested to bring in their daily symptom monitoring calculator to share what they noted about their symptoms and if they found it supportive. The whole procedure included five steps. The first step involved 15 minutes of the check-in procedure. The second step involved 5 minutes of the review of last weeks group topic and reading personal signals and early warning signs of trouble. The third step included the review of the last weeks skill practice questions on the first handout. Step four involved discussion of avoidance of high-risk situations and skills to refuse opiates if offered. The fifth step involved reviewing the skill practice for the next group and asking all members to keep developing and practicing their refusal skills. When I attended the Narcotics Anonymous (NA) group meeting I acknowledged that people experience problems while overcoming opiate addiction. This approach of treatment is good because it encourages meeting other people with similar problems helps them to realize that they are not alone (Mueser, Noordsy Drake, 2003).This models the experience of opiate addiction, resulting in social validation and acceptance of the members who attend. I realized that many people benefited from sponsorship (Mueser, Noordsy Drake, 2003). This is because new members in the group choose a mentor with some experience, from whom he or she could learn and receive individual support. Sponsors helped new members both within and outside the group meetings. In my view Narcotics Anonymous (NA) group meetings give members the chance to understand the treatment procedures and information that we obtain from books, libraries, internet and medical personnel. This is a big opportunity to confront, in a secure setting, all those detrimental opinion that we have cultivated for so long, and to generate new skills that overrun those delusions from the past. While attending the Narcotics Anonymous (NA) group meeting I noted that for people who were receiving professional care for their opiate addiction complications, self help groups are useful adjunct to their treatment (Mueser, Noordsy Drake, 2003). Self help groups promote diverse membership in that people from all walks of life attend these groups, so that a person can usually find someone with who to identify with. From the literature review it can be noted that self help and support groups play a fundamental role in the recovery of opiate addiction. The effectiveness of self help and support groups in the treatment and recovery of addicted individuals has been evaluated. It was found out that many people (35-65 percent) drop out in the first few months. Ghodse (2010) noted that those people who remain in the groups become active members. Ghodse (2010) commented that 65- 70 percent improve to some extent, taking opiates less than formerly or not at all (pg. 176). Treatment of opiate addicts is effective because during its administration it starts with a thorough assessment and detoxification if it is required. During the treatment period, patients participate in NA self help groups while in the primary stage of treatment and continue to do so when discharged to after care. Buy custom Opiate Addiction essay