An inspiring story of acumen and health awareness
I was interested to read The lighting of a match: how Pilates changed Asma's life (December 9).
I must admit, however, that I at first thought the story would simply be promoting a particular form of exercise.
Instead, it's an inspirational story of business success, and a tribute to somebody who not only saw an opportunity to fill a market gap, but to do something positive for other people.
Asma Lootah is right to say that physical activity is not a big part of people's lives in the UAE. That's not just true of Emiratis, but of the whole community.
Pilates is very good, but it is by no means the only valuable exercise regime. Just getting up and taking a walk can make a big difference to people's health and their outlook on life.
The weather in the UAE is beautiful at the moment, so we should take advantage of it. Go for a walk, see what you can see, and get your body moving in the direction of good health and a longer life.
Mary Morris, Dubai
Series of failures led to tragedy
I am writing in reference to the editorial, A matter of respect (December 9) about the prank call that resulted in the death of a nurse.
Many errors were made in the course of this tragedy.
First, the radio station did not think through the implications. Second, the royal "security" systems failed. Third, the hospital's procedures failed. Fourth, the hospital's caring procedures for its staff when under stress failed.
The fifth error involved the actions of the radio presenters who initiated this chain of events.
R Cogger, Australia
So much attention in this case has been on the DJs who made that ill-advised prank call, and the possible ramifications for the media.
I'm glad that The National's story, Hoax-call death shocks family (December 9), focused on the effects this tragedy has had on Jacintha Saldanha's relatives.
When somebody dies, a great burden falls on those left behind. Let us not forget them.
If nothing else, those who have profited from juvenile pranks should ensure that these people are cared for, both emotionally and financially.
Charles Bryant, Abu Dhabi
Egyptians at risk of losing gains
The ongoing and fast-changing situation in Egypt (Morsi fails to bring opposition to table, December 9) is deeply unsettling.
It was not long ago that there was so much joy about the Arab Spring revolution in Egypt, and yet it has now gone sour.
I hope a real resolution is found between the parties before everything that was gained - specifically that great nation's liberation from dictatorship - is lost again, perhaps forever.
The rest of the region, and the world, is watching.
Harry Spencer, Dubai
Pause for thanks over new park
Regarding Ittihad Park - it's all too beautiful (November 30), does Dubai finally have a dog-friendly park?
There is nothing better than being able to enjoy a place like this with your best friend's company.
C Luz, Dubai
Tunnel criticisms not warranted
I can't agree with the writers of Tailbacks concern tunnel commuters (December 9).
Any difficulties these people are having with the new arrangements are surely just teething problems.
As far as I'm concerned, the new tunnel under Salam Street is a gift to motorists and taxi passengers.
My only complaint is that some cab drivers forget that it's there, and I am denied a fast, uninterrupted ride to the Corniche.
Peter Mack, Abu Dhabi
Taking the Long way to the top
I'm writing about Rob Long's humorous column, And the Oscar goes to that writer guy (December 8).
The world has suffered because of a frustrated painter (Adolf Hitler), an overinflated actor (John Wilkes Booth) and a rejected dancer (Josef Stalin).
OK, I made that last one up. But I can't think of a writer who has directly slaughtered his fellow human beings. Indirectly, yes, but not first-hand.
W Adams, Dubai
The funny side of health forecasts
Mirror, mirror ... how is my health? (December 9) poses moral questions about knowing one's potential future health issues.
In a lighter vein, I am reminded of the Irish comedian Dave Allen, who said he'd like to know where he was going to die.
Asked why, he replied: "So I can make sure I never go there."
Michael Peterson, Dubai
