POTPOURRI

By definition Potpourri is a combination of flower petals, spices and sweet smelling herbs resulting in a delicate fragrance that spreads a sensually pleasing and pervasive aroma around. Let me apply this word to the news we receive via the Press or TV which creates the opposite aura of unease, frustration and discomfort that settles upon us like a suffocating blanket. Hearing the TV World News or reading the daily papers does not fill us with the joys of spring tra la.

- BY GOOLBAI GUNASEKARA

But there are many things that can go towards making us noticeably more sanguine if we only know where to look and how to present happier affairs.

NEWS

I read at least two newspapers daily. While I enjoy the many good articles therein I have to wonder if it is really necessary to tell us about every minor infraction (e.g. teachers and principals misbehaving) or varied minor incidents of NO national importance whatsoever that regularly take place in our lovely island. Names of miscreants are never given so there is no shame factor. Is any purpose served by printing gruesome details?

As if reading my thoughts The LMD magazine has just begun an online glossy tabloid titled GOOD NEWS COLLECTION. This is EXACTLY what we need. ANY kind of spirit lifter is vital to counterbalance the sad state of world affairs. To those who find wading through daily newspapers a chore, or lack the time to do so, this Collection is an idyllic notion. The Editor of LMD, Hiran Hewavisenti, has really cut a notch in his tally of earlier successes. May we anticipate missives which will inject a cheering note into this fractious era?

POLITICS

Politics can both irritate and amuse. Let us try to find humour in what is after all a people dominated business and lends itself to sardonic amusement. I quote....."The latest dance craze is called 'The Politician'. It is two steps forward, two steps backward and then a side step." True? Or here is an interesting fact of nature. Apparently a mocking bird can change its tune EIGHTY SEVEN times in seven minutes. Politicians must surely regard this interesting fact with GREAT envy since they are doing this most of the time..