Pursuit of Happiness
Bhutan has this concept of GNH or Gross National Happiness. It stands in contrast to GNP or Gross National Product in the sense that GNP represents humanity’s drive for materialism while GNH goes well beyond that. Beyond tangible riches, GNH is the measure of a country’s “common welfare and infused with a good dose of spirituality,” as Katherine Marshall puts it. The King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, conceived GNH out of Buddhist principles, one of which is the “notion that the ultimate purpose of life is inner happiness.” Which is not suprising, Bhutan being a predominantly Buddhist country.
Bangkok’s transport system
The sky train and subway systems in Bangkok are recent additions to ease traffic congestion in the city. It helps some, I suppose. But the routes are limited to just within the city. It would be nice to have it extended towards major highways near the residential areas. Manila was way ahead with our LRT and MRT in the 80s. And more people are using the system there in Manila, it is indeed a real public transport. Here in Bangkok it is still quite limited to those who can afford. Anyway read more about my experience and thoughts about this here …
Kara DioGuardi is American Idol’s Season 8 Fourth Judge
The 37-year-old Grammy-nominated successful songwriter, record producer and singer who has written or co-written many hit songs Kara DioGuardi will be joining Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson as a fourth judge on American Idol Season 8.
