Chetan Bhagat is Indian author and columnist, known for his Indian-English novels about young middle-class Indians. Bhagat was included in Time magazine's list of World's 100 Most Influential People in 2010. 

Chetan Bhagat is Indian author and columnist, known for his Indian-English novels about young middle-class Indians. Bhagat was included in Time magazine's ...

Don't just have career or academic goals. Set goals to give you a balanced, successful life. I use the word balanced before successful. Balanced means ensuring your health, relationships, mental peace are all in good order.

There is no point of getting a promotion on the day of your breakup. There is no fun in driving a car if your back hurts. Shopping is not enjoyable if your mind is full of tensions.

"Life is one of those races in nursery school where you have to run with a marble in a spoon kept in your mouth. If the marble falls, there is no point coming first. Same is with life where health and relationships are the marble. Your striving is only worth it if there is harmony in your life. Else, you may achieve the success, but this spark, this feeling of being excited and alive, will start to die.

One thing about nurturing the spark - don't take life seriously. Life is not meant to be taken seriously, as we are really temporary here. We are like a pre-paid card with limited validity. If we are lucky, we may last another 50 years. And 50 years is just 2,500 weekends. Do we really need to get so worked up?

It's ok, bunk a few classes, scoring low in couple of papers, goof up a few interviews, take leave from work, Enjoy with your friends, fall in love, little fights with your loved Ones .

We are people, not programmed devices.

"Don't be serious, be sincere."!

How December 25th Became Christmas

On December 25th of every year the entire Christian world comes together, putting aside petty quarrels and minor differences, to commemorate the birth of Jesus. (Well, most of us come together anyway).

The Orthodox Churches have it on different days because of some sort of disagreement over Gregorian calendars. And there are a few Christian groups around who don't celebrate it at all (too material, I guess).

In any case; on December 25th most of the Christians that I know celebrate Christmas, the birth of Christ -- very likely the holiest event ever to take place anywhere on the Earth, and an entirely worthy occasion to celebrate. But don't you ever wonder if we've got anything about it right? Is it even on the right date?

~ Complex Answers to Simple Questions ~

Don't bet the farm.

First off, they didn't exactly keep birth records of the common folk in 0 or 1 or 2 AD (not to say that Jesus was common, but… well, you know the story.) Secondly, even if they did, there's the problem of leap year. Every four years the powers that be add an extra day to compensate for a less than perfect rotation of the earth. The Romans even didn't know about that, convoluting time and calendars even more.

Plus some people back then used a lunar calendar and some used the solar version that we use today. Finally, the authors of the Gospels (Mathew and Luke particularly) either didn't know or didn't think it was important enough to mention the date of Jesus' birth. Who even knows if they recognized birthdays in ancient Judea?

The bottom line is that nobody knows the exact date of Jesus' birth, but the smart money is betting that it was sometime in early spring. There's some historical data, but the best hint is that famous story about shepherds tending their flocks by night. Shepherds tend to only stay up with the sheep during lambing season, and lambing season is in spring. But since no one knows, you might as well go along with the spirit of the season and enjoy all the cheer and good will towards men.

~ Hat Tricks ~

There is, however, some interesting history to the day we choose to remember the birth of the Christ child. It's not just some random date that somebody pulled out of a hat you know.

There have been festivals of every sort around the winter solstice going back to the Babylonians. But it was the Roman Emperor Aurelian who fixed the actual date. He called December 25th "The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun", and put it right in the middle of the feast of Saturnalia. (The Romans really knew how to have a feast: Saturnalia lasted a week.)

This was a always a time a great merry making there were big dinners, halls bedecked with laurels and green trees, people carrying lighted candles through the streets, and the giving of gifts was a common practice. In fact, you might say that the Christmas spirit is really the spirit of Saturnalia passed on over time.

~ Enter the Christians ~

The Christians, in the meantime, were having the "Mass of Christ" at various times and places. This wasn't a commemoration of the birth of Jesus so much as it was a time to reflect on His life and acts. So, when Constantine made Christianity the religion of Rome, the Catholics needed a way to convert the pagans running around the streets of Rome with their candles and presents to Christian practices.

One imagines it went a little something like this: "You have an unconquered sun, we have an unconquered Son. You give gifts -- we have wise men bringing gifts. You have bonfires and lamps and candles -- we have a new star. It's not really all that hard put the two together." Or something like that.

So the date of Christmas became the 25th, the pagans became Christians, and everybody got a day to celebrate selflessness, joy, and light.

Test for  Idiocy

Idiotic idiocy test. Feedback. Idiocy. what exactly is it? well, if you are in fact an idiot, you will not know the answer to this, but if you are a normal upstanding ...

This quiz will test your Idiocy Quotient. If you score less than fifty percent, I hope you're in a "special" school....  

Below are four (4) questions and a bonus question. You have to answer them instantly. You can't take your time, answer all of them immediately . OK?

Let's find out just how clever you really are....

Ready? GO!!!

First Question:

Y ou are participating in a race. You overtake the second person. What position are you in?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Answer: If you answered that you are first, then you are

absolutel! y wrong! If you overtake the second person, you take his place, so you are second!

Try not to screw up next time.

Now answer the second question,

but don't take as much time as you took for the first one, OK ?

Second Question:

If you overtake the last person, then you are...?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Answer: If you answered that you are second to last, then you are wrong again. Tell me, how can you overtake the LAST Person?

You're not very good at this, are you?

Third Question:

Very tricky arithmetic! Note: This must be done in your head only.

Do NOT use paper and pencil or a calculator. Try it.

Take 1000 and add 40 to it.. Now add another 1000 . Now add 30

Add another 1000 . Now add 20 . Now add another 1000

Now add 10 . What is the total?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Did you get 5000?

The correct answer is actually 4100.

If you don't believe it, check it with a calculator!

Today is definitely not your day, is it?

Maybe you'll get the last question right....

...Maybe.

Fourth Question:

Mary's father has five daughters: 1. Nana, 2. Nene, 3. Nini, 4. Nono. What is the ! name of the fifth daughter?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Did you Answer Nunu?

NO! Of course it isn't.

Her name is Mary. Read the question again!

Okay, now the bonus round:

I may have sent this one before. I! 'm never sure..

A mute person goes into a shop and wants to buy a toothbrush. By

imitating the action of brushing his teeth he successfully

expresses himself to the shopkeeper and the purchase is

done.

Next, a blind man comes into the shop who wants to buy a pair of

sunglasses; how does HE indicate what he wants?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

He just has to open his mouth and ask...

It's really very simple.... Like you!

PASS TH IS ON TO FRUSTRATE THE

SMART PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE

Test for Idiocy

B elow are four (4) questions and a bonus question. You have to answer them instantly. You can't take your time, answer all of them immediately . OK?

Let's find out just how clever you really are....

Ready? GO!!!

First Question:

Y ou are participating in a race. You overtake the second person. What position are you in?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Answer: If you answered that you are first, then you are

absolutel! y wrong! If you overtake the second person, you take his place, so you are second!

Try not to screw up next time.

Now answer the second question,

but don't take as much time as you took for the first one, OK ?

Second Question:

If you overtake the last person, then you are...?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Answer: If you answered that you are second to last, then you are wrong again. Tell me, how can you overtake the LAST Person?

You're not very good at this, are you?

Third Question:

Very tricky arithmetic! Note: This must be done in your head only.

Do NOT use paper and pencil or a calculator. Try it.

Take 1000 and add 40 to it.. Now add another 1000 . Now add 30

Add another 1000 . Now add 20 . Now add another 1000

Now add 10 . What is the total?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Did you get 5000?

The correct answer is actually 4100.

If you don't believe it, check it with a calculator!

Today is definitely not your day, is it?

Maybe you'll get the last question right....

...Maybe.

Fourth Question:

Mary's father has five daughters: 1. Nana, 2. Nene, 3. Nini, 4. Nono. What is the ! name of the fifth daughter?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

Did you Answer Nunu?

NO! Of course it isn't.

Her name is Mary. Read the question again!

Okay, now the bonus round:

I may have sent this one before. I! 'm never sure..

A mute person goes into a shop and wants to buy a toothbrush. By

imitating the action of brushing his teeth he successfully

expresses himself to the shopkeeper and the purchase is

done.

Next, a blind man comes into the shop who wants to buy a pair of

sunglasses; how does HE indicate what he wants?

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~

He just has to open his mouth and ask...

It's really very simple.... Like you!

PASS TH IS ON TO FRUSTRATE THE SMART PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE

Glittering gift: The new diamond crown for the Thathayagunta Gangamma temple.

TIRUPATI: A diamond-studded golden crown is ready to adorn the deity of Thathayagunta Gangamma, the folk Goddess of Tirupati, who is revered as the younger sister of Lord Venkateswara.

With the annual ‘Ganga Jatara’ just round the corner, the temple management hastened up the process and got ready the Rs.71 lakh crown well ahead of the week-long festival. The crown, made at the TTD’s jewellery section, weighs 5.375 kilograms of gold with 580 diamonds.

Apart from the Rs. 12 lakh borne by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the cost of the diamond was met from voluntary contributions from the public.

The glittering crown was taken in a procession to the Venkateswara temple at Tirumala on Wednesday by the TTD chairman B. Karunakar Reddy, along with executive officer K.V. Ramanacharyspecial officer A.V. Dharma Reddy .

The crown will be consecrated and adorned for the first time to the presiding deity after the traditional ‘Abhishekam’

In all devotion: Draped in neem leaves, a woman devotee enters Thathayagunta Gangamma temple in Tirupati.

TIRUPATI: ‘Gangamma Jatara’, the folk festival of Tirupati came to a colourful end at the Thathayagunta Gangamma temple here on Tuesday midnight. The slaying of the clay idol of Gangamma in the early hours of Wednesday marks the culmination of the annual festival.

As is the practice, local people started pouring into the temple right from Monday night and spent the whole of Tuesday in the temple and its vicinity.

The interesting feature of the final day is the mode of travel to the temple. Though the most preferred way to the temple is on foot, irrespective of the distance from their residence to the temple, the devout take a more strenuous route by performing ‘Sashtaanga Namaskaram’ on the road throughout. They roll a coconut on the road and when it stops, start falling to the ground with stretched hands and legs offering prayers. The process continues till they reach the temple.

Common practice

Another practice in vogue among women is the draping of neem leaves and twigs from the shoulders to the anklets, which serves as a dress. Women, irrespective of age, don the dress and offer prayers at the temple as a fulfilment of vows.

Many Muslim women too paid obeisance at the temple early in the morning, showing that Gangamma is revered irrespective of caste or religion.

The seven days or pinnacle phases of the festival are: Goru, Manuh, Raati, Chot, Kutum, Mela and Chera. Goru Bihu is celebrated on the last day of Chaitramonth. On this day, the cattle of the village are brought to a water source and are bathed and cleaned using turmeric and gram paste.

We are all inherently subject to major changes in our lives just as surely as we are subject to death and taxes. Numerology attempts to project major life changes and calls these monumental turns in the road pinnacles. If it weren't for these big transformations in life, the highly successful would become apathetic, and those struggling would soon feel totally hopeless. Pinnacle in our live give us the necessary change of pace and direction that is stimulating and hopeful. Pinnacles show the direction that progress will lead us.

A pinnacle is an experience occurring over a specific time in our life. These pinnacle periods have been likened to the four seasons. The first pinnacle is in the spring of life. The second covering years of family raising and responsibility represents summer. The third covering middle-age and growing maturity of judgment represents the autumn of life, and the forth, consolidating the experiences of life, is represented by winter.

Each pinnacle is represent by a number and the number reflects the tone of the period. The pinnacle number is written in the birth date. We will use the month, the day and the year of birth in this calculation. The first step will be to reduce each of these components to a single digit base number or master number. Thus, December 14, 1968, would become month 3 (1+2), day 5 (1+4), and year 6 (1+9+6+8=24; 2+4=6).

The first period is derived from the adding the month and day of birth. In our example, this would be 3+5=8 first pinnacle.

The second pinnacle is identified by adding the day of birth with the year of birth. The example would be 5+6=11; the master number 11 for a second pinnacle.

The third pinnacle is identified by adding the first and second pinnacle. Our example would have an 8+11=19 or 1 third pinnacle.

The fourth pinnacle is identified by adding the month and the year. Our example would produce a 3+6=9 fourth pinnacle.

The timing of pinnacles varies for each of the first nine Life Path numbers. The timing for the master number 11 is the same a Life Path 2, and the master number 22 is same as the Life Path 4. Here is a chart for determining the timing of pinnacles keyed to your Life Path number:

Here are readings of each of the pinnacles:

The 1 Pinnacle

The influence of the number 1 pinnacle is a drive for independence; the desire to express one's individuality using original ideals; leading and directing others, attaining achievements and being recognized for them.

First Pinnacle...1

With a number 1 first pinnacle, most of your youth was probably spent learning how to use original ideas, how to lead, how to rely on yourself without being egotistical, stubborn, self-centered or dominating. This is a period to learn leadership and it may not product the opportunities you would like. It is primarily a learning time.

Second/Third Pinnacle...1

With the second pinnacle and the third pinnacle providing number 1 energies a degree of aggressiveness becomes apparent in your demeanor. Your ability to get ahead and develop your talents is limited only by your own initiative. Your achievements are likely to very apparent to the public and a sense of independence allows you to assume a leadership role

Fourth Pinnacle...1

With the number 1 energies imposing itself on the latter stages of your life, any desire to retire or slow down will be unfulfilled. Challenges and changes will mark this part of your life. Responsibilities and accomplishments will be based on the ability to lead, direct, and express your own individuality and original ideas.

The 2 Pinnacle

The general emphasis of the number 2 pinnacle is that of friendliness, cooperation and harmony. You are apt to be a very sensitive person during this pinnacle, even if sensitivity is not indicated in your basic makeup. The 2 shows patience and attention to detail. You are tactful and cooperative, and willing to work with relatively little recognition.

First Pinnacle...2

Since this pinnacle is experienced early in your life, it may tend to make you an over-sensitive child, and you may be easily hurt or offended. You may experience early difficulties with expression, both verbal and emotional. Your mother is apt to be the stronger influence in your life throughout this period.

Second/Third Pinnacle...2

Your accomplishments during this productive period of your life will greatly depend on your abilities to work with other people, promote harmony, and show patience and a willingness to wait for credit due based on your contributions. The work you do may be very detailed and demanding during this period.

Fourth Pinnacle...2

This latter part of your life should be harmonious whether you are retired or continue to work. The key to fulfillment will be patience, tact, and cooperation, and you will find it necessary to control a tendency toward sensitivity.

The 3 Pinnacle

The general effect of the number 3 pinnacle is one of light, enjoyable activities. Travel, social activities, friends, and entertainment are much a part of your life during this pinnacle. You nature is more affectionate and outgoing. Personal expression is developed, particularly verbal expression. Any latent artistic or creative talents are apt to exposed now. Life seems to flow toward you during a 3 pinnacle, thoughts are of the present, not so much the future nor the past. Being with people and having fun is essential. Attitudes are youthful; easy come, easy go. Variety in work and play is likely. Money is not a concern so long as you can get by. Thinking, using your imagination, dreaming, these are all a large part of this period.

First Pinnacle...3

This is a difficult number to handle on the first pinnacle, for while there may be many opportunities to develop artistic or creative potential, you may not recognize them or be willing to work as hard as may be required for the development of these opportunities. There is a tendency to scatter energies and work on the wrong ideas. You may be too busy having fun to worry about the future.

2nd and 3rd Pinnacle...3

With the number 3 directing activities of the second or third pinnacle, responsibilities and accomplishments will be greatly dependent on social demeanor and general influence. This pinnacle may bring about opportunity for writing, speaking, interior designing, or some form of participation in the entertainment arts. Imagination and feelings are stimulated.

4th Pinnacle...3

There is a good possibility of much travel, social activity and entertainment. This transit usually promises freedom from financial worry in the later years. While there is a tendency to drift in relative comfort, this is a time when you can be at your creative best.

The 4 Pinnacle

The general influence of the number 4 pinnacle is that of a practical, realistic approach to life. This pinnacle demands a higher degree of order, system and organization. You tend to adopt a very conscientious and dependable response. Hard work and determined effort mark your attitude now. It seems as though you have an emotional need for work and truly thrive on it.

First Pinnacle...4

With the 4 influence in your first pinnacle, this can be a demanding period in with you are required to work due to economic circumstances, or in which you are a highly motivated person in your pursuit of education. In either event, you may not be so active in normal youthful activities because of your work schedule.

2nd or 3rd Pinnacle...4

With the number 4 second or third pinnacle, your ability to get ahead and achieve will no doubt be directly associated with your ability to out work the competition. Sometimes, this pinnacle brings a sense of economic limitation. This is likely to be a period of building and steady growth.

4th Pinnacle...4

With the number 4 fourth pinnacle, any desire to retire or slow down is not likely to be fulfilled. You are not the type to relax and enjoy leisure activities. It is important to work and feel the sense of accomplishment. In some unfortunate cases, economic conditions retard the ability to retire and enjoy life.

The 5 Pinnacle

The general influence of the number 5 pinnacle is that of freedom and a lessening of responsibility. The tendency toward change, sudden and unexpected, may enter you life during these years. You may tend to develop more variety in your friends, you work duties, and in your outside interests. You will probably be adventurous and inclined to travel. Your financial circumstances, like everything else in this cycle, can change rapidly, both up and down.

First Pinnacle...5

This can be a difficult first pinnacle because it is hard to find the stability to establish yourself and build a suitable foundation for latter life. You are likely to experience moves that require you change schools and friends. As a first pinnacle, the 5 has you living by your own set of rules, even if you are raised in a tradition family. You are more resourceful that others your age, but you may also tend to get into more trouble. Impulsiveness and a craving for independence are both strong in your nature during this period.

2nd or 3rd Pinnacle...5

With the number 5 pinnacle coming in mid-life, your ability to progress and achieve in may be linked to your ability to function comfortably in a fluctuating environment. Your ability to adapt is very critical. The sense of freedom that you have now is very significant. The caution here is not to burn too many bridges because of your urge for freedom, travel, and adventure. You may need that job (or family) later on.

Fourth Pinnacle...5

With the fourth pinnacle showing 5, any desire to retire or slow down is not likely to be fulfilled. Change and variety will continue to keep your occupied and busy. If you are adaptable, this can be a very interesting time in your life. In most cases, a final pinnacle of 5 means freedom from financial or domestic worries.

The 6 Pinnacle

The general influence of the number 6 pinnacle is that of responsibilities, which may cause feeling of restrictions. There is a close accord with home, family, children, and those in your environment for whom you feel responsible. You are apt to be involved in service work. The 6 vibrations have a very balancing effect on circumstances during this period. You are apt to receive many opportunities to serve and help others; teaching, counseling, and promoting harmony and diplomacy.

The first Pinnacle...6

As a young person you are likely to find much duty and responsibility related to home and family. There may be strong feelings of limitations because of these pressures. Ill-advised marriages at an early age sometimes occur. It is a period for you to attend to the demands made on you for family and close friends rather than self. Often, the six pinnacle suggests a person who is under the close dictates of a parent or of some authority figure.

2nd/3rd Pinnacle...6

In this period of your life you can progress and achieve through the acceptance of increasing responsibility and through diplomatic acts. Home and family with generally take precedence over business, however. It is a period for you to attend to the demands made on you for family and close friends rather than self. Often, the six pinnacle suggests a person who is under the close dictates of some authority figure.

Forth Pinnacle...6

As a last pinnacle, the 6 brings home the rewards and pleasures of family, security, and a close circle of friends. You are likely to find yourself giving back some of the nurturing and attention that you received in the early part of your life.

The 7 Pinnacle

The general influence of the number 7 pinnacle is that of learning, investigating, and gaining skills. The number 7 is a somewhat introverted number and you will tend to be more of a loner while the pinnacle is in effect than you will be in other times of your life. You will be more comfortable working alone, and while marriage is not out of the question during this time, it will take a good bit of effort. You are apt to need periods of isolation to develop inner resources. This time will be especially marked by a your lack of interest in material matters and little concern with practical affairs. This lack of concern can result in some financial shortages, limited material benefits, or possibly physical handicaps.

The First Pinnacle...7

With the number 7 first pinnacle, your circle of friends will not be large and you may have difficulty finding those you get along with. You are a serious student, motivated to learn by inner yearnings. Your youth may be a difficult and confusing time.

2nd/3rd Pinnacle...7

Unless you are involved in some sort of research or possibly religious or philosophical endeavors, your progress during this pinnacle will be painfully slow. Your accomplishments are simply not the type that bring financial benefits as desired or expected. The benefits of this pinnacle are much deeper and internal.

Fourth Pinnacle...7

With a number 7 fourth pinnacle, your later years will be a quiet time when you will be chiefly involved with the development and refinement of your inner being. This is a time for study, development, and thinking about life in philosophical ways. During this period it may not be easy for you to find individuals with whom you truly feel comfortable unless your spouse has similar attitudes. Be patient for people will come to you for what you know.

The 8 Pinnacle

The general influence of the number 8 pinnacle is that of business and commercial activity. There is a good deal of status orientation, success, and recognition associated with this number, and your financial circumstances and personal status are apt to changing during this period, with improvements likely to occur. The tone of the period is more on the pragmatic side, stressing organizational and management abilities. Emotions tend not to be a motivating factor.

First Pinnacle...8

With the first pinnacle featuring the influence of the number 8, you may become involved in business or commercial activity at an early age and face some restriction on this account. You are a very practical thinker at a young age.

2nd/3rd Pinnacle...8

During this period of your life you are apt to become very deeply involved with being a executive (or perhaps being married to one). You will begin to rely more on rational feelings and less on emotional impulses. You are more ambitious and success oriented.

Fourth Pinnacle...8

With the number 8 fourth pinnacle, business and position will make retirement at the normal age unlikely. Circumstances in the later years may be an atmosphere of status and power.

The 9 Pinnacle

The general influence of the number 9 is that of humanitarianism. Irrespective of which pinnacle of the life is colored by this influence, the trend will be to feel and express greater concern for those who are weaker, poorer, and less fortunate than yourself. The 9 denotes a degree of selflessness not show in any other number. The attitude is more humanistic, philanthropic and emotional.

First Pinnacle...9

Selflessness is often difficult for a young person, so the tone of this influence may be but barely detectable. You may be the type of person who is a friend to those who have few friends, a protector to those who might be the favorites of bullies, and generally a helping person in whatever way you talent permits. As you mature in our modern society, you are apt to embrace humanitarian political views and ideals.

2nd or 3rd Pinnacle...9

With the number 9 energy apparent on the second or third pinnacle, you may at times express very emotional and dramatic humanitarian views and ideals and become a champion of the need for tolerance and compassion in the world. You may possess a universal view of the world, working in ways that will benefit mankind.

Fourth Pinnacle...9

With the fourth pinnacle showing the number 9, your work in the latter part of life will tend to be more philanthropic, allowing you to give much more of yourself, and if your financial circumstances permit, your assets, to causes that benefit mankind. Certainly, you have a more caring attitude now than in earlier times of your life.

The 11 Pinnacle

The number 11 is the first of the master numbers. The influence of this number is somewhat philosophic and illuminating. The 11 vibration has associations with spiritual and metaphysical studies and understanding. It has associations with the reformer, the philosopher, the welfare worker. With the number 11 energies influencing behavior in any stage of the life, there is a significant lessening of material goals and desires. In fact, thoughts may tend to stray a bit from the practical and the mundane, irrespective of the life path you may be following. A certain disassociation with mundane reality can cause problems with associates in the environment. Frequently, there is a heightened sense of nervous tension associated with this energy.

First Pinnacle...11

With the number 11 first pinnacle, you may identify with some of the foregoing, however, it is difficult for a young person to use the general influence productively. Thus, the background tone of this period is perhaps better communicated through use of the number 2 energies. The general emphasis of the number 2 pinnacle is that of friendliness, cooperation and harmony. You are apt to be a very sensitive person during this pinnacle, even if sensitivity is not indicated in your basic makeup. The 2 shows patience and attention to detail. You are tactful and cooperative, and willing to work with relatively little recognition. Since this pinnacle is experienced early in your life, it may tend to make you an over-sensitive child, and you may be easily hurt or offended. You may experience early difficulties with expression, both verbal and emotional. Your mother is apt to be the stronger influence in your life throughout this period.

2nd/3rd Pinnacle...11

With the 11 pinnacle occurring in the second or third stage of your life may take on much the same implications as the 2 pinnacles, however, responsibilities and accomplishments of significance will contain the tone of the inspirational nature of this number.

Fourth Pinnacle...11

The 22 Pinnacle

The general influence of the 22 pinnacle is one that many people cannot readily attain. This is the larger of the master numbers and the connotation of 22 is that of master builder. It inclines toward large-scale endeavors in business or government. It denotes vast influence and power. Both of the master numbers are highly idealistic, but the 22's expression of idealism is in obtaining practical goals and useful projects. At any stage of the life, the number 22 tends to create a significant degree of nervous tension in the individual.

First Pinnacle...22

Young persons, except in very rare instances, are unable to use the general influence of the 22 productively. Therefore, the background tone of this pinnacle is more in tune with the number 4.

2nd/3rd Pinnacle...22

With the mid-life 22 pinnacle, many great things are possible. Much depends on the life's development and preparation up to now, and whether you possess the capacity to bring about such endeavors. If you have not received the opportunity for education and developed sufficiently to anticipate the responsibilities of the master number, it's likely that the reduced number 4 will better describe the tone of this period.

Fourth Pinnacle...22

If you have the capacity to achieve the statue of master builder forecast by this pinnacle, business endeavors with idealistic ends will likely preclude retirement.

THE ESSENCES

An additional cycle used in numerology is associated with the name rather than the birth date. This timing method uses the letters in the name in what might be called transits of the name, to arrive at this important cycle information that is called the Essences. The transit begins at birth with the first letter of your first name, the first letter of your middle name, and the first letter of your last name, their values totaled, defining the tone of the year from birth to age one. Then we will go on with these transits finding the Essence of each year of the life.

You'll need to recall those letter values, so here is chart for easy reference:

You must place the letters of your name on this worksheet. Begin with the first letter of your first name. Each letter in this name will last a number of years (from 1 to 9) depending on its numerology number designation. Thus, if the first name was David, a D would be placed under the F (for First Name) column on each of the first 4 years or rows. The value of D is 4. The next year (row) would get a single A, then V for 4 years, I for the next 9, and finally, the last D for the next 4. This would fill the F column for the first 21 years. Then, you would start over and repeat the process using this first name. If you were going to progress the chart through age 60, a third set of the letter in David would be used which would actually progress the chart (under the letter F) to age 63.

Next, you would follow this procedure under the M for middle name. In my chart the name Michael would have the first 4 years filled with the letter M, the 9 years of I, 3 of C, 8 of H, 1 A, 5 Es, and 3 Ls. Since there are 33 years filled with this name, only two sets would be used to progress the middle name past age 60.

Finally, the last name would be set in using the same process.

After the name has been set on the chart in this fashion, the next task is to fill in the 'Letter Value' column. For the name David Michael McClain, the first year would show D M M each having a value of 4. So 4 would be placed under F, M, and L. This process would be followed for each year.

Under the column entitled 'essence of transit', total the letter value (for the first, middle and last name letters) for each year, and show the single digit or master number which is derived from this total. This is the Essence for the year (birthday to birthday).

Here are readings for each Essence:

1 Essence

The Essence of the number 1 signals a time when you are developing new ideas and enlarging on projects that have been around for a while. This will be a period that will bring the opportunity for marked increase in your personal status and recognition. This Essence is often an opportunity to turn a life-long avocation into a money-making vocation. Many new friends and business associations are likely now. Your status in the world may grow, and you may get some recognition for your achievements. One thing may lead to another and you may find many alterations in your life during this essence.

if this essence remains in effect for 3 years or more...

Because this Essence is in effect for such a long period of time, its meaning with regard to change is somewhat confusing. In some cases, this foretells of a series of dramatic ongoing changes, or one considerable change with many years between the beginning and the finale of the alteration.

with a 1 personal year...

The effects of this Essence in a number 1 Personal Year are greatly amplified. It will be very hard for you to choose between the opportunities during this period. You are apt to run into some frustrating situations. You need to be prepared to make careful choices now with an eye on the future value of decisions as opposed to what feels good at the moment.

2 Essence

The Essence of the number 2 is a cycle when everything seems to be consolidating and this is decidedly a period of growth. But often the growth is not without reversals, and there is much emphasis on cooperation and patience. You may find yourself developing relationships, or trying very hard to develop a good relationship. You will likely find yourself working with and hopefully helping others. Conversely, you can expect to get much help from others now. This is apt to be a period of slow development, delays, roadblocks, and obstacles, and the period can be one of great frustration for you in certain ways. There can be a lot of emotions associated with the 2 Essence, and you may become much more sensitive now. Lowered energy and vitality may be experienced throughout the cycle. Confrontations are difficult now, but often necessary.

if this essence remains in effect for 3 years or more...

The 2 Essence remaining in your lifepath for a lengthy period may produce nervous tension due to prolonged high emotions and/or deep frustration due to the delays and problems encountered.

with a 2 personal year...

When this Essence is in effect during a number 2 personal year, emotional conflicts may heighten the tension, upset the sensitivity, and even affect the health. Self-control and a disciplined approach can help maintain a harmonious balance. Plan to move forward slowly, despite periodic detours.

3 Essence

The Essence of the number 3 is a very special time when you feel and experience the joy of living to its utmost. This is a very enjoyable time in your life. You are apt to be making a lot of new friends and renewing old friendships. This is a time for love affairs and expanding the social circle; many activities and good times. You are likely to travel a good bit during this Essence.

The other factor that is associated with the Essence of 3 is that of expression. This is a very good time for you to be interested in the development of creative work, particularly works that involve words...singing, acting, writing. This should be a busy time advancing your talents with classes or study, or for starting or expanding business ventures involving creative endeavors.

Optimism is the operative word for this cycle. This is a very pleasant period, but you must beware of a tendency now to scatter your energies.

when the period extends for 3 years or more...

This long period may allow a significant creative development in a positive and happy time of your life.

3 Essence with 3 Personal year...

Since you are enjoying this three Essence along with a 3 personal year, you may have a great deal of difficulty maintaining your sense of self-discipline. Having too much fun can be a long term mistake. Likewise, this is probably to be a very restless time for you as you may be on the go a great deal.

4 Essence

During this number 4 Essence the events and opportunities coming your way will emphasize a more serious tone. This is a time to buckle down and put the affairs of your life in order. Your attention is apt to be drawn to more practical interests such as dealing with financial matters and your work. The development of opportunities in your life now requires a practical and realistic view along with a lot of hard work, effort, determination and discipline. In many ways you are apt to feel a sense of restriction in your life for a while and you may face some setbacks as the pace of progress slows somewhat. This is a building time and the building is sometimes painfully slow.

if this essence is in effect for 3 years or more...

Since the 4 essence is with you for several years, this period is apt to feel like a never ending struggle. Yet significant gains or accomplishments may be the reward for your hard work and determination during this essence.

with personal year 4...

Since this Essence accompanies a personal year number 4, the feelings of being in a rut are not uncommon. The repressive conditions may be in your mind more than in the work at hand, but the feeling will be there just the same. Be objective about the obstacles you really face because it may be that they are not as formidable as you think.

5 Essence

With the Essence of the number 5 you will find that the events and opportunities coming your way will emphasize freedom and change. Your experiences during this cycle will be sudden, unusual, and unexpected, and you are apt to be dealing with constantly changing circumstances and activities. The ventures in your life now will stress progress, new ideas, and probably new friends. Travel is very likely. There should be a caution here to avoid tendencies to go off in every direction and scatter your forces. Choose your opportunities carefully and thoughtfully. Freedom is great, but be sure to use it in constructive ways that help others and yourself.

period of 5 Essence for 3 or more years

A long period of 5 Essence suggests that it is apt to be a very free-wheeling period. Unless some self-discipline is exercised, most of the energy is likely to be scattered with little accomplishment. If this scattering occurs, there may be feelings of deep frustration.

the 5 essence during a 5 personal year...

This may be a period when you are too free-wheeling and unrestrained. Constant change is not always constant growth and development. Try to maintain a balanced and thoughtful approach to problems and opportunities. Control self-centered interests.

6 Essence

The 6 Essence focuses circumstances and opportunities on the home, the family, and largely on domestic matters. This time is associated with responsibility, but usually the job is close to home or involving those nearest to you, including your close friends. If you are single, this Essence is a very good time for marriage; if married, this is a good time for your marriage. It is a good time to surface any problems that may exist in the marriage and deal with them before they become more serious. This is also a time for children, and it may be a time to have a child. The 6 essence also may and often does involve you in service to your community in some way; assuming responsibility for those outside your immediate family. This is more common if you are older and the need for your services in the immediate family is not apparent.

if 6 essence extends for three years or longer

The idea of intense responsibility is very much a part of your life during this period. Ideally, you will accept responsibilities and thrive in its execution. Resistance to duty now may impart a sense of suppression or isolation. On the other hand, if you meet challenges now, you are apt to become handsomely repaid with love and the devotion of those close to you.

The 6 essence during a 6 personal year

Responsibilities may never seem greater, but the rewards for accepting obligations and meeting the test may never be greater either. This is a year when feeling emotions and sharing them with someone close to you can help the family or community grow stronger and more cohesive. This may be a time when the size of your family grows larger.

7 Essence

During the essence of the number 7, many of the events in your life now will often involve study, a sense of isolation, and an inwardly focused attitude toward yourself. A time of looking for an understanding of fundamentals and pursuing new interests has arrived. You are likely to find yourself withdrawing for a time of reflection and perhaps even meditation, hopefully comfortable with a chance for repose.

When the 7 essence is in effect for 3 years or more...

Since the 7 essence is to be with you for a while, look forward to a time of internality and spiritual growth. You may grow away from others and become much more introspective.

When the 7 essences is joined by a 7 personal year

This can be a period when you become very moody and withdrawn. You may have to force yourself to be social because this seems like an aspect of life that is not important now. While you may actually enjoy your solitude, guard against signs of depression.

8 Essence

The number 8 essence suggests that the trend of events will be pointed toward getting ahead in a material sense and basically taking care of business. This essence normally marks a period when the business and professional reputation is enhanced and ripens. You are apt to reap financial gain now, building or expanding current ventures. Common sense and good judgments will help you achieve goals and make some real progress. This is apt to be a period when you work very hard.

for periods of 8 Essence exceeding 3 years...

This long period 8 essence may be an indication that you are very focused on issues of the career, power, and status. You may have to be reminded to stop occasionally to "smell the roses."

8 Essence with 8 Personal Year

When the 8 essence is joined by an 8 personal year, the stress of you devotion to "getting ahead" can be great. While this is an important period for you relative to the career, your power and status, it is also a time that can take a toll on other aspects of your life.

9 Essence

With the Essence of the number 9 life will tend to have a very dramatic or emotional flair. Your feelings and reactions to events will be very acute. Often this Essence denotes the ending to a significant endeavor, and a marked change in interests of some kind. Usually, additional freedom is a byproduct of the concluding affair. If you are single, there is likely to be an intense or emotional romance. Frequently, this Essence shows involvement with humanitarian endeavors are a constant during the essence period. Endings now may lead to a more useful life.

for periods of 9 Essence exceeding 3 years...

The fact that this is such a long period of 9 essence suggests that it is apt to be a very extended period of passionate feelings, a long drawn out love affair with a prolonged ending, or perhaps a sustained effort of some sort.

when the 9 Essence is coupled with a 9 personal year....

This may be an emotionally draining year which completions coming only with great difficulty. Clear thinking will be difficult but it is a must.