Category: Social

  • The art of smiling: How facial expressions influence your mood

    The art of smiling: How facial expressions influence your mood

    Maybe skip that, what about you? Have you ever laughed, maybe faking it, but felt some portions of happiness after some minutes?

    Maybe it is not your first time hearing that a genuine smile can boost one’s happiness, because that is undoubtedly true. However, I am wondering what your facial expression will be if I tell you that a fake smile is equally helpful.

    When I was 10, I knew a woman who used to make her children say ‘I love you’ to each other whenever she caught them fighting. At first, the children found it so awkward but as they continued, the act of saying ‘I love you’ softened their hearts and dissolved their frustration, and in the end, they would start saying it naturally. This wise woman has taught me that faking something, or maybe putting efforts into something, for a given period of time can eventually make it a reality.

    Just like those kids, like how that fake ‘I love you’ that turned real, that’s how letting out a smile, be it real or fake, can be as helpful as taking your sad kid to amusement parks, doll shops or any other place that helps to boost their happiness.

    If you’re a social media person, or engage in social networks, you might have seen a video about practicing laughing. It gave steps like starting with a single ‘ha’, then ‘haha’, ‘hahaha’, just like that, and after 10 ‘ha’s, you’d find yourself laughing naturally.

    Do you think it’s a backward idea? Happiness is normally what makes us smile, but how can it really be the other way around? I also thought so, but in the end, science proved me wrong.

    This might seem like just a simple physical exercise but, truth be told, it is more of the nervous system exercise or simply a brain exercise. In fact, the brain is just a sucker of a grin. It doesn’t care if the smile is fake or real. The moment you smile, the brain will believe it’s because you’re happy, and in the end, it will command the release of chemicals like dopamine and serotonin that increase the feelings of happiness and reduce stress respectively. This works in what is scientifically called ‘positive feedback’.

    According to Jaime’s testimony, 60 seconds of smiling exercise every morning has changed her family’s life. “It’s part of our morning routine. If something goes awry during the day, I usually use smiling to quickly shift my mood. It only takes 10 to 15 seconds for it to make a difference for me now. It helps me to feel less stressed, transform my mood quickly and put things in a different perspective,” she said.

    You might have recognized that a smiling environment makes you reciprocate the smile. A smile is contagious. A smile is a strong thing that most people can’t resist. But more importantly, it is a language that every person knows regardless of their country.

    If you’ve ever heard someone telling you to cheer up even when your inside is breaking like a glass, it probably made you even unhappier. However, regardless of how hard it is, smiling is a powerful weapon to boost one’s happiness. The crazy but real thing is that it can even boost your immune system.

    Ever since I came across that knowledge, my life revolves around this simple line:

    “Fake it until you make it”

    Smiling is a powerful weapon to boost one’s happiness.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of different Matrimonial Property Regimes of Rwanda

    Advantages and disadvantages of different Matrimonial Property Regimes of Rwanda

    In Rwanda, marriage regimes are provided for under law No: 27/2016 of 08/07/2016 governing matrimonial regimes, donations and succession.

    Nonetheless there are advantages and disadvantages of each of the matrimonial regime in Rwanda and it is up to the couple to choose what can be most favorable for them take at each of the regimes.

    {{Community of property regime}}

    In this arrangement of marriage of community of property regime, the spouses intend to have joint ownership of property and the spouses shall select among themselves, who shall have the obligation of management of the common patrimony and they equally share the rights to monitor and to present.

    The spouses are jointly held liable for the debts contracted before and after their marriage, this is a very crucial point to note as you make your choice on which marriage regime to legalize.

    Where dissolution of a community of property regimes occurs either by divorce or changing the type of matrimonial regime, the spouses share equally the properties. assets and liabilities, court may as well order for deduction of the shares on each spouse for the value of damages caused by either spouse.

    {{Advantages}}

    {{ {Joint Ownership:} }} Both spouses share ownership of all property acquired during the marriage.

    {{ {Equal Sharing: } }} Assets and liabilities are equally divided upon dissolution of the marriage, promoting fairness.

    {{ {Unified Financial Responsibility:} }} Both spouses are jointly liable for debts, fostering shared financial responsibility.

    {{Disadvantages}}

    { {{Shared Debts:}} } Both spouses are collectively responsible for debts, which may lead to financial strain if one spouse incurs significant liabilities.

    { {{Lack of Independence: }} } Limited financial autonomy for individual spouses as all assets are jointly owned.

    { {{Equal Sharing May Not Reflect Individual Contributions: }} } The equal division might not consider individual efforts or contributions to the marital property.

    {{Limited community of property regime}}

    A limited community of property regime implies that the spouse married under that regime shall only share the assets and debts that accrued when they are together right from the wedding day.

    Under this regime of limited community of property, spouses manage the property based on the common agreement , they even have the same legal obligation to follow it up and act as legal representative of that common property.

    {{Advantages}}

    { {{Selective Sharing: }} } Limited sharing of assets and debts, focusing only on those acquired during the marriage.

    { {{Individual Management:}} } Spouses have the flexibility to manage their personal assets independently.

    { {{Potential for Fairness: }} } Allows for a more nuanced distribution of assets and debts based on individual contributions.

    {{Disadvantages}}

    { {{Complexity in Management:}} } Requires careful documentation and agreement on which assets and debts are shared.

    { {{Potential for Disputes:}} } Disputes may arise if there is ambiguity in the agreement regarding shared assets and debts.

    { {{Less Financial Integration: }} } Limited community may lead to less financial integration and shared responsibility.

    {{Separation of property regime}}

    Under the separation of property regime, the spouses take back their own property after divorce.

    The property which the spouses previously owned jointly shall be considered to be equally owned unless there is proof that changes the whole facts as stated.

    The regime of separation of property is a contract under which either spouses agree to contribute to the expenses of the household in proportion to their respective abilities while retaining the right of administration, enjoyment and free disposal of their personal property.

    Each spouse is liable for the personal debts contracted before or after marriage unless the spouse has contracted such debts of the household.

    The joint debt is paid by each spouse from his or her own property according to the arrangement they both agreed upon while contracting that debt.

    When dissolution of separation of property of marriage occurs, due to divorce or change of marriage regime, both spouses take their properties independently without seeking for court clarification.

    Various matrimonial regimes come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the following points aim to illuminate some of them.

    {{Advantages:}}

    { {{Individual Ownership:}} } Each spouse retains ownership of their personal assets after divorce.

    { {{Financial Independence: }} } Spouses maintain financial independence, managing their assets and debts individually.

    { {{Clear Financial Boundaries:}} } Clearly defines each spouse’s financial responsibilities and ownership.

    {{Disadvantages:}}

    { {{Unequal Contribution: }} } There might be unequal contributions to household expenses, potentially causing financial disparities.

    { {{Complex Financial Arrangements:}} } Requires careful planning and agreement on financial responsibilities.

    { {{Potential for Disputes:}} } Disputes may arise if there is ambiguity or disagreement regarding financial arrangements.

    Choosing the most suitable regime depends on the couple’s financial goals, preferences, and level of trust and cooperation. Legal advice is essential to make an informed decision tailored to the couple’s specific circumstances.

  • Breaking the Chains: An urgent call to end the culture of silence surrounding intimate partner violence

    Breaking the Chains: An urgent call to end the culture of silence surrounding intimate partner violence

    The person responsible for her torment was none other than the one meant to be her protector—her husband.

    The nightmare began shortly after the birth of their first child when Kirabo noticed a drastic change in her husband’s behavior. What ensued was a two-year ordeal of unimaginable suffering, with her husband committing acts of violence, including rape, even in the presence of their kid.

    Despite Kirabo’s attempts to seek help from family, she was met with skepticism and disbelief.

    In a conversation with IGIHE, Kirabo disclosed, “When I left the house later after getting the courage, he had started beating me whenever I refused to sleep with him, saying that I am his wife and my body belongs to him.”

    Her courageous escape revealed the extent of the abuse, and months later, Kirabo discovered she was pregnant with her second child—a stark reminder of the trauma she endured.

    Kirabo emphasizes the prevalence of such violence, especially among women who, influenced by cultural myths, suffer in silence. She passionately advocates for a campaign to empower women to break the chains of silence, challenging societal norms that perpetuate shame and stigma.

    The global scale of violence against women is staggering, with an estimated one in three women experiencing physical or sexual abuse in their lifetime.

    Despite its pervasive nature, gender-based violence remains concealed by a culture of silence. This unethical violation of human dignity manifests in various forms—physical, sexual, psychological, and economic—deeply rooted in gender inequality.

    Kirabo’s story sheds light on the importance of community intervention in abusive relationships. Frequently, signs go unnoticed by neighbors, friends, and family until tragedy strikes. Intervening, far from meddling, is a moral duty to prevent further harm.

    To combat gender-based violence, hotlines like 4433, established by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in partnership with Alight Rwanda, serve as crucial resources. The hotline responds to and prevents sexual and gender-based violence, emphasizing the urgency of a collective effort to address this pervasive issue.

    The narrative underscores the significance of removing legal barriers to prosecuting gender-based violence crimes, emphasizing that silence only perpetuates abuse. Society must unite to break the cycle of domestic violence, providing a voice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable.

    The call to action is clear: break the chains of silence, challenge cultural norms, and unite against intimate partner violence. Ending this pervasive issue is not only a moral obligation but a collective responsibility that demands urgent attention.

    The global scale of violence against women is staggering, with an estimated one in three women experiencing physical or sexual abuse in their lifetime.
  • Why being thankful matters

    Why being thankful matters

    Thanks to my laziness and ‘hate’ for cooking, avocados are now my go to ‘dish’, as they accompany my everyday meal (omelette) so well, making it taste like ‘KFC’.

    This article isn’t intended to make you fall in love with avocados like I did, nor is it meant to make you judge my laziness, instead it’s meant to encourage you to practice gratitude in all forms possible.

    The lady who sells me the avocados is one, many of us would term as ‘poor’; given the job she does, where she does it from and her appearance while at her job.

    However, there’s not a single day that she serves her customers without a smile. She smiles so wide that I sometimes wonder if she ever wishes to get out of that state (I buy the avocados mostly at night while coming from work, and during that time, she’s by the roadside with a toddler).

    Mary (not real name) is the true meaning of what Roy T. Bennett said in the quote, “Being grateful does not mean that everything is necessarily good. It just means that you accept it as a gift.”

    How many of you out there are in better positions than Mary, but complain every single day about life being hard, how your parents didn’t do enough for you to have a good life, how you hate that job you have (meanwhile, you sit in an airconditioned room and a waterproof shelter), and so on and so forth?

    Well, according to research, the more you practice the art of thankfulness, the more you have more to be thankful for.

    Being thankful is not just a polite gesture; it has far-reaching benefits for individuals and society as a whole. We will look at some of the benefits it comes with.

    {{Improved Mental Health:}} It is believed that expressing gratitude can lead to improved mental well-being. When we focus on the positive aspects of our lives and express gratitude for them, it reduces stress and anxiety. “Grateful people often experience higher levels of happiness and lower levels of depression,” says research.

    {{Enhanced Relationships: }} Gratitude is a powerful tool in building and maintaining strong relationships, says experts. When we express thanks to others, it strengthens our connections and fosters a sense of trust. It’s a way of showing appreciation for the people in our lives and can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.

    {{Increased Resilience:}} Gratitude can help individuals become more resilient in the face of adversity. When we are grateful for what we have, we are better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks. The act provides a positive perspective that helps us navigate difficult times with a more optimistic outlook.

    {{Physical Health Benefits: }} Believe it or not, being thankful can have a positive impact on our physical health. Grateful individuals tend to engage in healthier behaviours like regular exercise and better sleep. These behaviours contribute to overall well-being and can lead to a longer, healthier life.

    {{Improved Self-esteem:}} Gratitude can boost self-esteem and self-worth. When we recognize the good things in our lives, we are more likely to feel valued and competent. This self-assurance can lead to increased confidence and motivation to achieve personal goals.

    On the flip side, being ungrateful can strain relationships, increase stress, reduce happiness, diminish mental resilience, and contribute to mental health problems. So, cultivate gratitude if you want to live a happier and healthier life both for yourself, and the society as a whole.

  • Understanding marriage motives and outcomes

    Understanding marriage motives and outcomes

    This article delves into the intricate web of motivations behind marriage, highlighting the potential pitfalls of rushing into this sacred union and the far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society as a whole.

    {{The worldview effect}}

    A person’s worldview plays a significant role in their decision to get married. Worldview encompasses one’s values, beliefs, and expectations, which can be heavily influenced by cultural, religious, and philosophical perspectives. Some individuals marry because their worldview dictates that marriage is the ultimate goal, and it aligns with their spiritual or cultural beliefs. While such motivations can lead to a fulfilling marriage, it can also lead to disappointment if the partnership doesn’t meet the idealized expectations.

    {{Peer pressure and societal myths}}

    Peer pressure and societal myths can be potent motivators for marriage. Pressure from family and friends, or the fear of being seen as ‘left behind’ in the marriage race, can push individuals into matrimony. Additionally, romanticized notions of marriage perpetuated by society, such as the idea that it solves all problems or that it is the only path to happiness, can be misleading. When people succumb to these external influences, they may rush into a marriage without truly understanding their own desires and compatibility with their partner.

    {{The age factor}}

    Age often plays a crucial role in the decision to marry. Some people feel societal pressure to get married by a certain age, fearing that being single in their late twenties or thirties is undesirable. Rushing into a marriage due to age-related concerns can lead to emotional and psychological distress as people may not be fully prepared for the responsibilities that come with marriage.

    {{Rushed marriages and negative impact}}

    Marriages that are rushed into often suffer from a lack of preparation, self-awareness, and compatibility. Such unions can have several negative consequences and theses Include:

    {{Strained relationships:}} Rushed marriages can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings, as the partners may not have had the time to truly get to know each other and their expectations.

    {{Emotional and psychological stress:}} Individuals in rushed marriages may experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression, especially if they feel trapped in an unfulfilling relationship.

    {{Divorce rates:}} Marriages entered into impulsively are more likely to end in divorce, further exacerbating the social and economic costs of divorce on individuals and society.

    {{Impact on families:}} The consequences of a rushed marriage are not confined to the individuals involved. Families on both sides can be deeply affected, experiencing emotional turmoil and strained relationships as a result.

    {{Societal and economic implications:}} High divorce rates and broken families can strain social services and impact the well-being of children, as they face the challenges of living in divided households. Additionally, the financial costs of divorce can be substantial for individuals and society.

    {{Nation’s development :}} Rising divorce rates and a high number of rushed marriages can have a detrimental impact on a nation’s development. Broken families can lead to an increased demand for welfare services, strained healthcare systems, and reduced productivity. The emotional turmoil experienced by children of broken families can impact their educational attainment, perpetuating cycles of poverty and underdevelopment. Thus, the hasty decision to marry can have far-reaching implications for the nation’s overall well-being.

    To sum up , marriage is a profound and beautiful institution when entered into with careful consideration, mutual understanding, and shared goals. Rushing into marriage due to external pressures or societal myths can have dire consequences, not just for the individuals involved but for families and society as a whole.

    It is imperative to encourage open dialogue about the complexities of marriage and provide support and education to individuals contemplating this lifelong commitment. Ultimately, a well-considered, thoughtful approach to marriage is essential to ensure that it remains a source of love, stability, and growth for individuals, families, and society.

    Marriage is considered one of the oldest human institutions. Photo iStock
  • The dual face of social media: A reflection on its impact on College students and society

    The dual face of social media: A reflection on its impact on College students and society

    This essay explores the complex relationship between social media and college students, examining whether it serves as the cause of problems or as a tool to mask underlying societal evils.

    {{A Source of Distraction and Procrastination}}

    Social media platforms offer an endless stream of distractions, from viral videos and memes to notifications that constantly seek our attention. College students often find it challenging to resist these temptations, leading to procrastination and decreased productivity in their academic pursuits. It’s evident that social media can be a direct cause of academic problems for college students.

    {{Mental Health Concerns}}

    The impact of social media on college students’ mental health is a topic of growing concern. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to increased feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. The pressure to present a curated, idealized version of one’s life online can lead to a constant state of comparison and self-doubt. Thus, social media can contribute to the rise of mental health issues among college students.

    {{Cyberbullying and Harassment}}

    Social media can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying and harassment. College students are not immune to online abuse, which can take various forms, including online threats, personal attacks, and the spreading of false information. The anonymity offered by social media platforms can embolden individuals to engage in such harmful behavior.
    The Role of Social Media in Masking Societal Evils

    {{Echo Chambers and Confirmation Bias}}

    Social media platforms often create echo chambers where individuals are exposed primarily to information and viewpoints that align with their existing beliefs. This can lead to confirmation bias and reinforce societal prejudices and biases, making it difficult to address underlying societal issues.

    {{Superficial Activism}}

    While social media has played a significant role in raising awareness about societal issues, it can also promote superficial forms of activism. Clicktivism or hashtag activism often fails to translate into real-world change. Posting about a cause without taking concrete action can serve as a facade to mask the lack of substantial progress on societal issues.

    {{Polarization and Division}}

    The spread of misinformation and divisive content on social media can exacerbate societal divisions. It can fuel political polarization, create hostility between groups, and make it difficult to have productive, empathetic conversations about critical societal problems.

    Social media’s impact on college students and society is multifaceted. It can be a direct cause of problems such as distraction, mental health issues, and cyberbullying among college students. Simultaneously, it can serve as a platform that masks underlying societal evils by fostering echo chambers, promoting superficial activism, and intensifying societal divisions.

    The critical question is not whether social media is the sole cause of all the problems among college students or whether it is solely used to cover societal evils. Rather, it is about how we use this powerful tool. Acknowledging the potential harms while harnessing the positive aspects of social media is essential. College students and society as a whole must strike a balance between embracing the opportunities for connection and activism while mitigating the risks and challenges that social media poses.

  • Social  media: What  should  make  it  to  your status  and  why

    Social media: What should make it to your status and why

    Think of my contacts as a diverse restaurant menu that caters to every craving: humor, inspiration, motivation, and more.

    However, I am occasionally perplexed by the posts that certain people share, even when I strongly believe in the concept of “My phone, my data, my status.”

    To avoid coming off as a ‘hater’, I asked some of my peers to share comments on what motivates their posts on social media.

    Additionally, I looked up information on what should and should never make it on social media.

    Louise, a university student in her final year, said she likes posting photos of herself as it makes her feel good.

    “When I dress up and feel smart, I will take photos and post them. However, I avoid posting things that are private,” she stated.

    Gloria, also a university student in Kigali, says she rarely posts, but when she does, it’s only to celebrate her friend’s birthdays, weddings, or graduation ceremonies.

    “My choice of posts is meant to confuse viewers, you know when people want to see you sad but you post things that show happiness even if you’re not, that’s what I do,” said Claire.

    Zandee, on the other hand, said she posts about her cooking tutorials mostly as a way of advertising. “I also post a lot about myself,” she stated, saying it makes her feel happy about herself.

    A big percentage of male counterparts said they only post when their football teams win a soccer game or funny memes once in a while.

    {{What experts think you should post}}

    {{Positive Achievements and Milestones:}} Sharing accomplishments like graduations, promotions, or personal achievements is a great way to celebrate your success and inspire others.

    {{Educational and Informative Content:}} Sharing informative articles, news, and thought-provoking ideas can benefit your online profile by highlighting your knowledge and interests.

    Sharing your {{creative endeavors}}, whether it’s artwork, writing, music, among others, can help you connect with like-minded individuals, gaining you recognition for your talents.

    It is okay for one to share their {{travel experiences}} as it can inspire others to adventure to the same places. However, be mindful not to share sensitive location data.

    {{Charitable activities}} such as volunteering and community events can be shared on social media to encourage others to do the same, in addition to fostering a sense of togetherness.

    On the other hand, the following should never be posted as they can have a profound impact on one’s personal and professional life.

    {{Engaging in public arguments or airing personal conflicts}} can reflect poorly on your character and damage relationships. Posting excessively personal information, like relationship troubles or health issues, may make you vulnerable and attract unwanted attention.

    {{Home addresses, phone numbers, bank accounts, and personal emails }} are sensitive information and should never be posted. I understand your first time at the airport may be thrilling, but make sure to clip out vital details while posting your passport or travel ticket. Identity theft and cyberattacks can be avoided by safeguarding your personal information.

    {{Offensive, discriminatory, or insulting content }} can tarnish your reputation and potentially result in legal ramifications. What may appear a joke to you may be offensive to the person who views your status: remember you “have a right to what you post but not how the other person interprets it.”

    {{Complaining about your job or colleagues on social media}} can jeopardize your career and professional relationships. Many employers and organizations now check an applicant’s social media profiles before making hiring decisions. What you post can impact your career prospects.

    {{Sharing false or misleading information }} can contribute to the spread of misinformation, erode trust, and have real-world consequences. Posting harmful or illegal content can result in legal repercussions, including lawsuits or criminal charges.

    The next time you post on social media, be thoughtful of what you share, as maintaining a positive and respectful online presence will help you build and preserve meaningful relationships with friends, family, and acquaintances.

  • World  Mental  Health  Day: Understanding, identifying, and addressing the challenges

    World Mental Health Day: Understanding, identifying, and addressing the challenges

    {{Understanding Mental Health}}

    According to World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of mental wellbeing that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community.

    It encompasses our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices in our lives.

    {{What causes Mental Health Challenges}}

    According to experts, Genetics and brain chemistry can play a significant role in mental health. Certain genes may increase the risk of developing mental health conditions, while imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) can also contribute to disorders like depression or anxiety.

    Additionally, environmental Factors like in particular life experiences, such as trauma, abuse, or significant stress, can trigger or exacerbate mental health issues.

    Personality traits, coping mechanisms, and thought patterns are also said to influence an individual’s susceptibility to mental health challenges. For example, perfectionism or a tendency to ruminate on negative thoughts can contribute to conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or depression.

    {{Common Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions}}

    Psychologists name: persistent sadness or mood swings, changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping), increased irritability or anger, withdrawal from social activities, difficulty concentrating or making decisions among the most common symptoms of mental health disorders.

    They thus recommend whoever experiences any of the symptoms to seek professional help from therapists, counsellors, or psychiatrists.

    Practising self-care is relatively essential for maintaining good mental health. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness or meditation.

    Furthermore, maintaining a strong support network of friends and family can provide emotional assistance during difficult times. Sharing feelings and concerns with loved ones can alleviate the burden of mental health challenges.

    Authorities and responsible bodies are also urged to increase awareness about mental health and challenge the stigma surrounding it so as to encourage individuals to seek help when needed and promote a more supportive and understanding society.

    With bold ambitions to improve citizens’ wellbeing, the Government of Rwanda has not been left behind this cause.

    As part of activities to mark this year’s Mental Health Day, Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) in partnership with Solid Minds Rwanda, youth and student led organisations have launched the ‘Youth-Friendly National Mental Health Campaign’ to promote the mental well being of students and young people in Rwanda.

    The event held at Olympic Hotel in Kigali Rwanda under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” attracted poets like Junior Rumaga, Rusine Patrick-comedian, different doctors and therapists and is promising to add up to the country’s efforts towards eliminating mental health stigma and other related conditions.

    A ‘Youth-Friendly  National  Mental  Health  Campaign’  to  promote  the  mental  well  being  of  students  and  young  people has been launched in  Rwanda as part of activities to mark this year's Mental Health Day.
  • Balancing priorities: The battle between needs and wants

    Balancing priorities: The battle between needs and wants

    Let’s get an understanding of what is a ‘need’ and a ‘want’.

    Needs are things we can’t live without. They are important for one’s survival; for instance; food, water, air, shelter, clothes.

    On the other hand, wants are the things we desire to have but can live without, such as cars, phones, laptops, and more.

    Over time, these lists have evolved, blurring the lines between wants and needs.

    I will explain; ordinarily, it was a ‘rule of a thumb’ to have three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Present day, one will voluntarily skip a meal, if not two, because they want to lose weight.

    Others will even go to extremes of just having fruits and water, not forgetting those who fast ‘dry’, as a way to draw near to God.

    The same applies to the list of wants. Gone are the days when mobile phones were a luxury, presently, life rotates around them.

    Additionally, wants and needs vary from individual to individual; what you can live without, another person sees it as a necessity and a ‘must have’.

    For Instance, there’s a recurring debate on social media that has never been resolved. The debate of whether to own/buy a car before you build a house or build a house and then buy a car.

    This debate makes its way to the debate room whenever the rainy season kicks in; with those who own cars mocking their counterparts with houses on whether they’re going to use the houses and go to work amidst the heavy rains.

    From a short survey I conducted, the majority preferred to build houses prior to buying cars, citing reasons such as: ‘a car is expensive to maintain,’ ‘I plan on having a family, and they won’t sleep in a car, instead in a house,’ ‘a house can be sold for much more than what was used to build it, while the same doesn’t apply to the car,’ and so on and so forth.

    Those in support of owning a car first and not the house also had reasons to justify their choice: ‘need to get to work on time,’ ‘I travel a lot, and it would be costly if I don’t own a car,’ ‘all my friends have cars, and so should I.’

    A few didn’t have a definite answer: ‘If I get money to buy a car first, I will do that and vice-versa,’ ‘It will depend on the need, what I need most at that particular moment, and my ability to get it.’

    {{Financial experts’ take}}

    Kacie Goff, in an article published by Bankrate says one’s decision to own either property should depend on their financial status as both are expensive.

    “The answer depends on your specific financial situation since both houses and cars cost a significant chunk of change. You’ll need to weigh your options carefully.”

    “Cars generally depreciate over the years, while the value of real estates tends to rise,” stressed Kati Wishneff a realtor at William Means Real Estate, adding that “although housing markets move in cycles, houses will almost always appreciate to some degree over time.”

    She however says that if one needs a car particularly for work, they should go for that first.

    “If you need a car particularly for work, I’d advise going with that first. You can’t build wealth without employment.”

    Furthermore, individuals are urged to put into consideration the urgency of acquiring one over the other while making the ‘big’ decision. This is to mean, the longterm and shortterm implications.

    According to Michael Gifford, CEO-Splitero, a company that helps homeowners get the best outcome when it’s time to sell a house “potential home buyers should consider long-term scenarios like a change in employment status or income and the property’s resale and rental potential”.

    “When you buy a home, you really need to think about the big picture but a car purchase doesn’t require the same level of forward thinking,” he states.

    “Home ownership is the foundation of almost all wealth creation, your home is not only your egg nest, but the emotional foundation to grow and extend your wealth outside the home into other assets,” says Curtis Wood, CEO Florida mortgage app wood.

    A house or a car can be either a necessity or a desire; just make sure to place them in the appropriate category after careful analysis to avoid future regrets.

    Needs  are  things people can’t  live  without while wants are the things desired to have but one can live without them.
  • Homemaking unleashed: A source of strength and self-expression

    Homemaking unleashed: A source of strength and self-expression

    They were expected to manage the household while their husbands were at work and their children ran about. Some of these women aspired to pursue careers or establish themselves beyond the confines of their homes but felt trapped by societal expectations. It is hardly surprising that many women turned away from homemaking in an attempt to distance themselves from the very thing that seemed to imprison them.

    In recent times, homemaking skills have seen a resurgence. It’s as if women are returning to reclaim what was once used against them. Skills that might have faded over the generations are now being reawakened by a deep desire to create, prepare, and care for both ourselves and our loved ones.

    Homemaking skills no longer carry the negative associations of the 1950s; instead, they are instilling power and pride in the hearts of women everywhere. Pastimes like baking, sewing, cooking, cleaning and gardening are becoming increasingly integrated into the lives of women who are eager to acquire new abilities and provide for themselves.

    Mothers have been integrated in the world of hunting, with this I mean waking up early in the morning and chasing the means.

    But this has not stopped them from coming back home and looking after their households and the follow up on small details like a saucepan that broke a handle two years ago on a son’s birthday that she can not find at home.

    It could be the ability hidden in their nature, that at times people have defined them as amazing creatures, they will know who went at school who didnt even in their absence , they will know which child is misbehaving, Making a home later on, thinking of the new sofa sets to be placed in the house and the tree behind the young sons window that needs matching.

    Indeed, homemaking is a labor of love. It encompasses the creation of a clean and inviting environment, the warmth of a welcoming kitchen, the coziness of a well-maintained house, and the dedication to sewing buttons back onto shirts with care. Homemaking is a celebration of these skills, an acknowledgment of the nurturing spirit that thrives within women. It’s about cherishing the ability to turn a house into a home, a place of comfort and love that leaves an indelible mark on the lives of all who inhabit it.