Year: 2013

Does a Woman have a Religion?

Last Updated on 14/05/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

The issue of a woman’s religion or perception of religion has been more or less no news. We are in the era where certain issues our fore-fathers never imagined have become common occurrences.


As each single day passes by, many people seem to be made cognizant of their evangelistic mission on earth and therefore go for it. There are now numerous Men and Women of God, with majority heading various churches. Kudos to them, there is explosion of churches globally. However, it would be very nice if all these reflect on the rate of crime we encounter lately.

Nevertheless, I was chatting with a mate yesterday and along the line she mentioned a new church in her neighbourhood that attracts lots of crowd especially women. She said many people have been testifying about the wonders the Man of God there performs. All thanks to his packs of -find your life partner, seeking for the fruit of the womb and the likes- crusades. Consequently, most worshipers are women who seek speedy miracles.

By the time I know it, we have already delved into a strange topic. She told me how she has quit her former church and now has another favorite and concluded by saying ‘what does it matter a woman has no church.’

I would not have minded pretending I did not hear her well but not on this topic. What she said re-echoed in my ears. Are you serious about that? I asked.

She answered by saying she knows I am passionate about Catholic church but when the time comes I would speak differently. This was how we ended up discussing about women’s perception of religion and all that it might entail. I could not believe she made such a direct statement.

In my opinion, women have religion. I believe so because when you grow up in one and value it so much you cannot be easily talked into a new one within a blink of an eye.  Besides, if you see religion as having a huge influence on your life you will simply prefer someone that reason like you but when it does not  necessarily mean that much to you, any place of worship ought to be suitable.

She asked what if I fall in love with someone that has a completely different religious view from mine. She almost sounded apologetic and wanted me to reason with her for my own good.

How is that going to happen? Who said I will call that love? These questions were prompted quickly in my head but I did not let them out out-rightly.

I have known many cases of what you are saying and I respect your reasoning. All am saying is that for people that want such, it is okay if it comes their way. I know no one is certain about anything in the future  yet we all make plans. If you think this is same for all women, then you are wrong.

What if you meet someone and they willing choose to switch churches because of  you?

Hey! Where are you dragging this conversation… Personally, I would prefer someone who is on same page like me. I am not willing to make someone change their church because of me. I guess when people do that their family and friends would know they did that for you and  that might affect your relationship with them. Please! I do not have such powers. I respect all religions. I can recall a time while in the course of  doing home visitation work as a Legionary we converted a neighbouring family, that is the sort of conversion that gives me joy. I mean not for personal gains.

Well, thats for you. As far as am concerned, no woman has a church until she is married. That was her response before I changed the topic…

NB:
I truly respect different people and their religions and have friends with all sorts of belief too. I mean no offense to any of my readers.
Please, feel free to share your  views.

Is it true that a woman has no church?

Prader-Willi syndrome

Last Updated on 03/05/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

You might be a lover of Prada products but this is something else…

Prader-Willi syndrome(PSW) is a rare genetic disorder that causes characteristics such as obesity due to an excessive appetite. 

 Signs and Symptoms
  • Newborns are often small and floppy.
  • Male infants may have undescended testicles.
  • Trouble eating as an infant, with poor weight gain
  • Almond-shaped eyes
  • Delayed motor development
  • Narrow bifrontal skull
  • Excessive intake of food due to feeling of permanent hunger 
  • Rapid weight gain  

  • Short stature 
  • Very small hands and feet in comparison to the child’s body.
  • Sex glands produce little or no hormones
  • Slow mental development. 
  • learning difficulties
  • lack of secondary sexual development
  • behavioural problems, such as temper tantrums or stubbornness

Children have an intense craving for food and will do almost anything to get it. This can result in uncontrollable weight gain and morbid obesity.

 Causes
-Prader-Willi syndrome is caused by a gene missing on part of chromosome 15 .Normally, each parents pass down a copy of this chromosome. Most patients with Prader-Willi syndrome are missing the genetic material on part of the father’s chromosome. Others often have 2 copies of the mother’s chromosome 15.
The genetic changes occur randomly.

-Sufferes usually do not have a family history of the condition.
 

Investigation

Genetic testing is available to test children for Prader-Willi syndrome.
As the child grows older, laboratory tests may show signs of morbid obesity, such as:

  • Abnormal glucose tolerance
  • Above normal level of the hormone insulin in the blood
  • Decreased level of oxygen in the blood
  • Failure to respond to luteinizing hormone releasing factor 

    Management

If a child with PWS follows a restricted diet and control their weight, they would be able to enjoy a good quality of life although, its highly unlikely that they lead a fully independent lives.

Heimlich manoeuvre;a procedure for managing a chocking patient, is been taught to parents or guardians of patients because they are at high risk of choking as compulsive eating abnormally expands their stomach.

There is no cure for PWS, so treatment aims to manage the symptoms and associated problems. For parents, this includes dealing with their child’s behavioural problems and excessive eating.

Limiting calories will control the obesity, but the family, neighbors, and school must work together closely because the child will try to get food wherever possible.

Growth hormone is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome. It can help:

  • Improve physical strength and agility
  • Improve height
  • Increase lean muscle mass and decrease body fat
  • Improve weight distribution
  • Increase stamina
  • Increase bone mineral density

There have been some concerns that taking growth hormone therapy may lead to sleep apnea. A child who takes hormone therapy needs to have annual sleep studies to monitor for sleep apnea.
Low levels of sex hormones may be corrected at puberty with hormone replacement.
 

Complications
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Right-sided heart failure
  • Bone (orthopedic) problems.

    This is a terrible health condition, at first parents would ensure that their children feed well and then try to restrain them from over eating. Lastly, they do not have a long life expectancy when compared to other children.

A Joke I like.

Last Updated on 29/04/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

It goes like this:

There are 3 sisters who live in an apartment.They live harmoniously and always have the interest of another at heart.

One day, while the Eldest of all was bathing in the bathroom
She called out to her sisters who were cooking in the kitchen saying:

‘One of my leg is in the bath and the other one on the outside. Am I in the bathroom or outside?’

Her siblings were surprised at the question and the older one rushed to know where she actually was.
Climbing up the stairs to the bathroom, she stopped and asked:

‘Am I halfway up the bathroom or halfway down the kitchen?’

Their younger sister who was in the kitchen suddenly heard a knock on the door and asked:

‘Is that on the front or on the back door?’

Does this joke tell you anything…?

The Quest for a better way of life.

Last Updated on 28/04/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

Most times, we spend a lot of time doing things that we think that are really important to us. Some times, we feel the we would be better off if we had 25 or 26 hours a day. There are too many things that need to be attended to and we try as much as we can to make ends meet.
Yet, we fail to spend quality time with God in prayer.

We think other things are of utmost importance and end up leaving out the most important of all.  There are either work or school  activities and personal needs issues that seems to consume all our time and we have reminders to ensure we are punctual because the penalty would not be fair on us but when it has to do with praying or going to church we tend to drag our feet.

Nowadays, we spend so much time on our bodies, decorating our faces, styling our hairs, checking out which section of hairs needs to be waxed or combed, think of what to wear, try them out, worry about how others are going to view us and the rest of them. I am actually referring to everyone, I think guys are worst these days. Yes! Times have changed, it is no longer applicable to women alone.

Nevertheless , the quest for a better life, to climb up the academic ladder, to gain promotion at work, become a successful  trades-person or performer and becoming richer should be likened to, if not same for our spiritual life.

We should endeavour to set some time for our own welfare by praying. Quality time in prayer is very essential as we might need not only to ask but to listen quietly. Most times we ask and ask and never listen.

Group and routine or recitative prayers are equally beneficial and shows that we have interest and are somewhat committed. However, we need to make an extra effort to communicate with God alone.

We need to unwind ourselves and absorb Him, in our own time, talking to him in our own language and pace as though we need to make Him know our unique voice and style. 

We Have A Pope.

Last Updated on 20/04/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

What a movie!

During announcement in church last Sunday, the Priest mentioned about an Italian movie that will be shown on Wednesday. Its’ tittle is  ”We have a Pope” with English subtitle.

At first I said to myself, it might be cool going to watch it but the fact that am going to have to listen to the I-have-no-idea-whatever-they-are-saying-ITALIAN and the supposed plot of the movie made me think that it could turnout being very boring.

Well, on that evening I was disposed to seeing it so, I went for it. It followed the evening mass and was more like fun time. During the church time we were few but more people came later for the movie.

We all went down to the lovely decorated hall and the large screen made it all look magical. I am in a Cinema after all. Wine was served and the Priest gave a brief introduction before the film kicked off.

It was a very good and interesting watch. It portrayed the degree of secrecy in the Catholic Church and how issues are being handled.

On the contrast, it showed how most Cardinals instead of praying more for a fair election of a new Pope rather  prayed that they do not get voted for. Another funny instance was when the elected Pope ran off the Vatican and on one occasion told a stranger he met that he suffered ‘Parental Deficit. At his age!

He felt he couldn’t do it. Despite wearing the Papal regalia, greeting the Faithful posed as a huge problem for him.

Prayer Times.

Last Updated on 26/11/2017 by Vivien Ayinotu


Indeed, it is a humble attitude that we seek the face of God in times of difficulty as it implies we know He is our Sovereign Master; Who knows the unknown and sees beyond human comprehension.

These moments draw us close to God. We try to mend our ways while relying on His mercy to see us through. I can recall in my school days that at various institutions we only indulge in Novena, fasting and praying mainly during examination periods. We tend to act so religiously and would even be willing to make trouble with anyone who seems to be acting in a way we think would disrupt our prayers.

We do set all sorts of standards for ourselves during these periods. At one occasion, we extended our rituals to the due date of our result. It almost caused trouble because by then we must have graduated and could be carried away by the euphoria that comes with graduation. It sounds funny now but that was how desperate we were at that time.

Meanwhile, what amazes me is that we never declared a thanksgiving Novena or fast. We only bought petty gifts for thanksgiving and it ended there. I know this is applicable to all of us (including you reading) in our various lives. It can be seen also in the way we relate with one another, in the sense that we pester others when in need and can forget them for a very long time or till God-knows-when when all seems so well with us, as long as we do not encounter a problem that would mean going back to them.

That makes me wonder if most of us would have turned to prayer if not for hard times. Perhaps, tests, hardships and disappointments makes us more committed by putting us in the  actively praying mood which would not have been that strong  if we flourish effortlessly all times.

Difficult times continually remind us of our dependency on God and fill the gaps we might have created during the very good times. However, we still need to pray at all times.

Forgive and Let go.

Last Updated on 09/04/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

In life, it is very essential that we willingly forgive our fellow men, no matter what they do to us. This is very important because nobody is perfect and can overtly boast of not erring. Indeed, it sounds like a task that could be impossible to achieve but with the true definition of Christianity at heart, it is actually achievable and of considerable benefit to those that indulge in it. In addition, our lives seem to be a model for other people as it reflects the Christ-like image divinely bestowed upon us all.

Although, it is a unique and selfless way of living, it is an exceedingly tedious and demanding dutiful life.It transforms our reasoning but does not affect our relationship with one another. To most people, you act in a manner they cannot comprehend and wonder why you think that is a good way of life but you alone know your inner drives and happiness.

I was in a middle of a conversation with an elderly Woman the other day and she made me understood the concept of forgiveness the more. Being a staunch Catholic, she thought she was living the ideal christian life and practising her faith. She usually says the Lord’s Prayer and chants it till a problem she never imagined befell her family and all they have lived for, made her meet a powerful Priest that made her read meaning into each line of Our Lord’s Prayer. For the first time in her entire life, she realized she isn’t that worthy of saying such prayer;a mere prayer she easily rattles within the twinkle of an eye.

She kept living like that for a while but couldn’t understand her life anymore and knew she needed to let go of all that have wronged her in one way or the other. Not that she does not talk to some of them, she does for talking sake but in her heart she is not at peace with them.

She narrated many ugly encounters she had had with people and how life can be cruel,sometimes. It was a touching story but I at least understood her for who she was. At a point, she broke down. There was so much betrayal from trusted friends,deceits and all sorts of malicious acts.

She lacked words to express the way she felt the very day she truly let go of her past and in her heart of heart forgave all that have wronged her.

Surprisingly to her, it reflected on the way she currently communicates with them, in cases of those she has been able to meet. She felt lighter than ever, as though a heavy burden was lifted off her chest.

Personally, I think it would have been better if most times we sincerely forgive and forget. I can recall hearing it often when I was younger and even said it a couple of times but now, I doubt whether it is feasible or maybe one of those instances of ‘easier said than done‘.

Well, I guess there are issues that find their way off our memory while some depending on how probing we found them never leave us no matter how hard we try.

All in all, it is of our best interest and duty to forgive others just as we would want our Creator and fellow humans to treat us.

Your analysis could be irrelevant.

Last Updated on 03/04/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

There are times we seem to worry a lot whereas all we need to do is simply forge ahead.

Although, certain level of anxiety is normal in the sense that they guide us rightly, we may have noticed we are better off without it. Besides, we function effectively when less tensed.

Well, I have observed that there are moments that what we have actually calculated to be an outcome as humans totally take a different turn.

Perhaps, all we need to do is simply do our bit and leave the rest. The words are ” play your own part” and the remainder falls in place. Moreover, always live a happy life.

It was on a Mothering Sunday

Last Updated on 17/03/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

It was on a Mothering Sunday. The mass celebration was wonderful, with the lovely and gripping sermon by the Priest.

He highlighted many aspects of our lives where a mother’s role seems so incomparable and many more useful tips. Mothers were all dressed in their immaculate white blouses and blue diocesan attire. There were lots of of activities for the day like Women match past, football among others.

During the thanksgiving procession they was so much noise in the church due to women wandering about, talking to friends and exchanging greetings as well. It was such a sensational atmosphere watching proud Mothers parading with their various gifts  in dazzling and expensive accessories. The women’s to-match spoke for itself. They all looked adorable.

It was during this time that I spotted a little girl that was so quiet unlike other kids that were thrilled by the busy environment. Church time lasted two hours longer but eventually came to an end by leading into the occasion of the day.

The main occasion kicked off with introduction of the members of the high table and the usual introductory protocols.  I sat at an extreme corner because I wanted to watch  few of the events before going home.

I spotted the same girl again but this time I walked up to her and sat beside her. She stood up to leave but I made her understand that I do not bite and we sat together like friends. I gave her some minutes before I started chatting her up.

She reluctantly told me her name and either nods or shakes her head to whatever I say. I was surprised why she was here alone and does not want to go home but preferred to mope at rejoicing mothers and people.

I asked if her mother was present and she said no. I tactfully made her loosen up and had to understand her mood when she began talking to me.

Her mother was at home and have decided not to come to church because for some reasons, she cannot and does not have the uniform and would not like to watch her fellow women exhibiting. It brings her mother sad memories and being that she cannot withstand that, she chose not to appear in church.

‘What of your Dad,’ I asked. She shook her and nodded almost at same time.
‘Is he alive?’ She nodded. I was delighted to know he is not dead after all.

From what I made out, she lives with her mother and had other siblings which do not stay with them. She does not seem to know say much about her Father.  Perhaps, she decided not to say much about him.

Did your mother ask you to join her and stay at home?
Yes, but I did not want to stay at home on  a Sunday.

That was exactly the kind of response I was willing to hear.  I cheered her and told her that I like her courage. However, I probed further to hear the whole story because they come in pieces and am yet to fully understand it all.

She was not happy watching others while her own mother was at home and she felt so helpless about it.The fact that she does not know when it is going to stop bothers her too. She added that the previous celebrations have not been easy for them. She and her Mother would sit together while they watch other mothers display. She could tell her mother was not so happy but had to fake laughs and smile with other women as they both watched celebrating mothers.

At home, they would have fun and she usually prepares her a special meal for her but  the church part becomes the enemy owing to the displays.

I felt for her and wished there was something speedy I could do to ensure that in the subsequent celebration her mother would be participating like her mates…If wishes were horses…  I sighed.

I asked her if I can meet her Mum and she begged me not to think of it that she would not be happy to know that she have been discussing family with a total stranger.

I tried to see if I can be friends with her and probably see some other time and she accepted. Although, she said they occasionally worship in our parish.

I wanted to spend more time with her as her mood have taken a brighter turn but I have already overstayed and needed to go home.

I walked her towards the bus-stop where she boarded a bus and I went home.

My thoughts

I never knew Mothering Sunday could be a nightmare to any Mother or for a family.

If only this woman knew the impact of her actions on her child; physically and psychologically, she would have thought of something better.

Well, I feel for this woman too because she must have been going through a lot but I am certain she is not handling it well.

I wonder which troubles her the more; could it be the main reason for not being able to identify with this organisation in the Church or having to watch her mates display…?

? Proteus Syndrome

Last Updated on 25/02/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

 I came across the story of a Lady with a rare condition and how she has been able to cope positively with it.

Mandy Sellars.

  Proteus Syndrome is a very rare condition and can present in various forms.

  • It occurs as a result of genetic mutation. The affected cells continue to multiple exceedingly and produce more malformed cells.
  • This condition starts while in utero; when the baby forms during pregnancy and continues throughout lifetime
  • It does not run in families and thereby, cannot be inherited. 

In the case of this Lady, the condition extremely difficult. It was in the year 2006 that Doctors decided to name her condition as Proteus Syndrome after years of varieties of tests including DNA tests.

Her Condition

  • Her legs grew massively. 
  • At a time,  her upper body weighed 38kg while the lower part weighed 95kg. She wears only trousers specially made by her mother and outgrows them in a short duration.
  • Has had deep vein thrombosis; formation of blood clots.
  • Consequently, she was paralyzed for few weeks.
  • Developed Sepsis;Infection of the blood
  • Suffered kidney failure
  • Had MRSA; Methycillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus( a bacterial  infection).
  • Later, her infected left leg was amputated.
  • Unexpectedly, the stump grew out of proportion when compared to her right leg. It’s width went up to 2m i.e same as a size 34.

Her Lifestyle

She is a very cheerful person and enjoys having fun despite her condition. Her parents have been there for her and had given her all the care and support she needed. She said she has always got anything she asked for and only got to knew how about how abnormal she is during her teens.

She has a degree in Graphic Design and Psychology and has studied courses such Sociology, Criminology, Sign Language and Mediation. In addition, She has worked voluntarily in different fields. She lives alone though family and close friends always pop in to know how she is faring.

She has a specially designed wheelchair and a special car. And does cooking, washing and cleaning by herself.
As a very independent and optimistic person , she hopes one day there would be a cure for her condition.

According to her, her condition do not affect her love life as she has previously been in two long-term relationships. She enjoys hanging out with friends and going places.

However, she has always feared she could be bedridden by the time she turns 85 years if her condition worsens.

Hope

Following a  recent DNA test and researches, a drug has been identified which could help her shrink her legs. She has commenced it and within  three months a significant improvement was noticed.

For the first time, X-ray showed the size of her legs were reducing rather than its usually increase.
She had noticed that because her trousers fits her properly and her mother has not made new ones but waited patiently to hear from the health experts. She and her parents were thrilled on hearing the news, just like they were the day they heard a tiny drug could do the job.

Hopefully in the next couple of years there would be a tremendous reduction in her legs.

Rapamycin

This is a drug commonly used to prevent organ and bone marrow transplants rejection.

It is found  to be very useful in Mandy Sellars case as it stops a specific protein that is involved in cell division. Nevertheless, its side effects include lung toxicity and increased risk of cancer.

 Lastly, in some sufferers, this abnormal body enlargement could be seen in the abdomen, around the chest and on the hands. Other signs and symptoms can be present, depending on sites affected. Follow @AyinotuV