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Mahabharata Characters 06 – Bhishma 05 – The sacrifice of reputation for devotion
This talk is a part of the "Fascinating Mahabharata Characters" series. To know more about this course, please visit: bhakticourses.com
Transcription :
Transcribed by : Sadananda Das
We are continuing on our discussion on Bhisma Pitama.
Naturally when we discuss these different characters their lives will overlap; and when their lives overlap we will discuss certain incidents very briefly in one character's life just to have the narrative flow going on. We will discuss those details more in detail when we discuss another character because they are having more relevance in that characters life.
Bhisma is a character whose presence extends almost through the entire Mahabharat; at least the entire parts of Mahabharata which are of most significance. That's why while we are discussing his life we are more or less catching out the whole story of the Mahabharat in an outline and we will be emphasizing those parts of the story which feature Bhisma in a central role, and the other parts of the story we will discuss later.
We stopped last time at Kindam Rishi cursing Pandu saying that, "Just as when I was in the act of procreation you shot me and killed me, but you did it ignorantly, you didn't know that I was a human being. So, you will not be punished with death, but in the future if you decide to unite similarly with you wives, then you will die at that time" and saying this Kindom rishi departed from the world and his wife also departed with him, and from that time Pandu took a very severe vow of celibacy and both his wives helped him to maintain that vow, but somehow after fifteen years of celibacy he got attracted to Madri and then he passed away, and Madri also departed with him and Kunti came back to Hastinapur; and in this way Bhisma became the caretaker or the surrogate father. He was actually the grandfather, but he had to act like the father of the Pandavas because there were no other male figure and till this time because Pandu had departed from the world and his sons had not played any role in the kingdom at that time, so Bhisma and the Kuru elders were training Dhritarastras sons, especially the eldest son, Duryodhana to become the successor, and Duryodhana was a very pampered child and he was also not very well behaved or cultured. And because of this he often was displeasing to others; but still because he was going to be the successor everyone was pampering him and taking care of him, but when the Pandavas came back they were very cultured, gentle, respectful and very kind hearted, and the two contrasts between the characters of the Pandavas and the Kauravas was apparent to everyone; naturally the Pandavas won the hearts of people and they won the heart of Bhisma also.
Bhisma liked both the Pandavas and the Kauravas, but because the Panadavas didn't have a father he took more care of them, and moreover because they were so virtuous, kind, refined, gentle and so cultured, naturally they occupied more of a place in their heart. Still he took care of both of them and he arranged to train them personally, and then he engaged Drona. Then Drona appeared to train them and he watched them grow to become worthy successors of the Kuru dynasty; but unfortunately they were not to live in harmony, and due to Duryodhana's envy and his hunger for power incited by the evil schemes that Sakuni hatched – and he was infatuated by the power of Karna; he tried conspiracy against conspiracy against the pandavas and Bhisma was left to just watch. He was such a powerful ksatriya but he could do nothing. Bhima was poisoned and at Yudhisthira's counsel the Pandava's didn't speak anything.
Bhisma was a shrewd diplomat. He could observe the tensions but he was hoping that the things would not go to a great extreme and eventually on Sakuni's scheming the Pandava's were sent to Varnarvat, and when the Pandavas were sent to Varnarvat they stayed in the house of flak which was burned, and coincidentally at that time the Nishada woman who had five children had come there, but she had drunk a lot and had fallen in a drunken stupor at that time when the fire was set, and because of that everybody thought that the Pandava's had been killed along with their mother Kunti and Bhisma's heart was shattered. Pandu and his wife had passed away and now his children had passed away, and now he felt responsible, and he could see the condemnation in the eyes of the citizens also. The citizens could make out that this fire was no accident. It was an act of arson and they considered the royal family with a conspiracy within it responsible for this, and Bhisma later on tells Dhritarastra, "O Dhritarastra! Do you know what is happening?"
Actually the Pandava's survive and they have many adventures. Eventually they win the hand of Draupadi and when they allied with Drupada, at that time they reveal their identity. The Pandavas are there and Dhrtrarastra is faced with a conflict, "What to do?" Duryodhana has been ruling like the king and Dhritarastra has officially been the king since Pandu had departed, and the Pandava's had also gone off the scene and the Pandavas had reappeared. So, what to do? So, Dhritarastra was discussing with his ministers and his counselors and Bhisma told him, "Call back the Pandava's and give the kingdom. Do you know what the citizens are talking? Do you know how they are blaming you and all the elders for the injustice that had happened to the Pandavas?"
Since the time when the Pandava's were rumored to have passed in fire I felt ashamed to come in public to face the people with anger and the condemnation in their eyes. Now is the time for you to set right the wrong that has been done. Call the Pandava's back and give them the kingdom; give them half of the kingdom at least so that you will have your rule for Kauravas and Duryodhana, and the Pandava's also will have their rightful share. So, Bhisma, Vidura and Drona; they all counseled like this and Dhritarastra realized that what they were saying was right and he called back the Pandava's and he gave them half of the kingdom. But he gave a barren waste land; that was the Khandava Prasta, and Bhisma noticed the unfairness of the settlement. Suppose the father is a millionaire and the father has two sons, and one son is given one half of the industries worth a million dollars, and say half a million worth of industries are flourishing and let's say half a million worth of industries are perishing or not at all profitable; if one son is given the flourishing half and the other son is given the perishing half, naturally that would be considered as unfair and even an outrageous settlement; but Yudhisthir was so virtuous that he accepted it. He considered his elders to be like God and he accepted their word. Bhisma had seen the unsettlement of the settlement, but he had taken a vow to serve the ruling monarch of Hastinapur and he was compelled to obey that. To obey that monarch's will, he could only give good counsel, but when he had taken that vow before Satyavati's father that not only he would ever usurp the Hastinapur King, but he would always remain faithfully as the servant of the Hastinapur king. He had never thought that such a thing would happen where such a conspiracy would be hatched by the Hastinapur rulers and he would have to stand by their side because of his vow. But by Krishna's mercy Khandava Prasta was through the arrangement of Maya Danav and they transformed it into Indra Prasta, and then when the Pandava's decided to perform the Rajasurya sacrifice, the four Pandavas went in four directions and they won over all the kings in the world and then they brought the tributes to Yudhisthira, and then the
Rajasurya yajna was performed at that time. That was the crowning glory of not just Yudhisthir's life, but it was also Bhisma's life.
Bhisma remembers this in the last moments of his life when he is about to depart from the world; rajasuryam esam. He says that, "When I was present in that assembly when Krishna was worshipped as the Agrapuja, that worship that is offered to the topmost person was offered to Krishna, and Bhisma remembers that day. So, Bhisma is delighted to see the success of the virtuous Pandava's; and not only that he was delighted to see the glorification of the supreme Lord. That ultimately was his hearts longing that the Lord will be glorified and his devotees be glorified. When this magnificent Rajasurya yajna was performed Bhisma was also one of the elders who was assisting in the sacrifice, and then when the ababrad bathing was done for Yudhisthir and Draupadi, and then agra puja was to be performed; Who was to be chosen as the person? There was a lot of discussion going on. Sahadev proposed, "In this assembly there are great sages. There are even God over there, but no one is greater than Krishna, because Krishna is Visnu himself and he is the greatest of all great personalities and it is him to whom we should offer the agra puja." When Sahadeva spoke this the whole assembly erupted with approval and joy and Bhisma's heart flooded with more and more joy on seeing this, and yet there were envious people who not just became silent but enraged and they exploded. Leading among those envious people was Sisupal.
The Bhagavatam describes, "The king of Chedi Desh and others." Sisupal said, "We thought that Yudhisthir was an intelligent king and that is why we agreed to offer tributes to him but no one knows varna of this Krishna, no one knows who is his parent, he lived as a cowherd, and he runs away from the battle and he has ran away from Jarasandh so many times. Now what is this heroism?" He started blaspheming Krishna like anything, and at that time when he spoke like this, the king started getting agitated. Many of the kings were pious and they could not tolerate this blasphemy; not just because some of them knew that Krishna was also the supreme Lord but they knew that Krishna was a powerful ruler and they did not like those criticisms at all. But Sisupal just went on and finally Bhisma spoke, and Bhisma said that, "Actually how can you consider Krishna not worthy of glorification?" and this is the time when Bhisma elaborately glorifies Krishna. This is the first time in the Mahabharat that Bhisma gets an opportunity in a public forum to speak the glories of his beloved Lord. Bhisma is a mahabhagavat, a great devotee and he knows the glories of Krishna and he relishes his glories, and he started speaking the pastimes of Krishna mentioning them in an outline right from the childhood, how Krishna killed so many demons who were terrorizing even the God's, and how he lifted the Govardhana hill on his little finger for seven full days, and how that Kamsa who nobody could counter, how he was countered and crushed effortlessly without any weapons by Krishna, and he went on and on narrating the glories of Krishna. Bhisma said, "Who is there who can stand in front of Krishna in the battle? Who can be as glorious as him? He is glorious not just because of his status as Visnu, but also because of the deeds that he has performed in this very manifestation." When Bhisma spoke like this everybody approved, and yet Sisupala scowled as did some of his followers. Sisupal said, "What is so great about that? There were some wizards and he killed them, and what is so big about him lifting up one piece of rock. I can also lift a piece of rock. There is nothing great about Krishna." Then he said, " This Krishna, his mind is polluted and those who associate with him their mind also gets polluted, and that's why Bhisma's mind has also got polluted." Then he told Bhisma, "People glorify you because of taking up a vow of celibacy, but I will
tell the truth. Actually you are impotent and to hide your impotency you have taken this vow of celibacy." This is one of the worst insults that can be offered to a male in general and to a ksatriya male in particular, and too a ksatriya ruler who is the greatest among the warriors. There is no more grievous insult that can be offered. A shocked silence fell over the whole assembly and Bhisma tolerated the insult, but Bhima could not tolerate it and Bhima leapt up like lion emerging from a cave about to pounce on small animals and devour them. And as Bhima was about to pounce on Sisupal, Sisupal took out his sword and was ready to fight, but Bhisma caught Bhima on his shoulder and checked him, and just as an ocean cannot go beyond the bounds of the shore, Bhima despite his fury could not resist or go against the will of Bhisma; and Bhisma told him, "O Bhima don't worry. When the time is right Kesava will himself kill this wretch." And he said, "What is his glory. He was already defeated at the time of the swambhara when Krishna took Rukmini. He is no match to Kesava. It is only because Kesava is tolerating that he is able to go on ranting like this."
Bhisma although he had been insulted, he had such self-control that he did not himself explode. He could have taken up weapons and could have easily overpowered and killed Sisupal, but he was thinking of the overall good. He was thinking that if he raised weapons and there was a fight – normally in a sacrifice like a Rajasurya sacrifice it is a very sacred place, and blood should not be shed in that place. If blood is shed in that place; especially if human blood is shed, then the whole sacrifice becomes defiled and it becomes null and void. No fruits come from it, and Sisupal knew this and that's why he was going on speaking inflammatory words trying to incite his opponent to raise his weapons. He in his intoxication was thinking that he had the prowess to fight with them, but he also knew that if the Rajasurya sacrifice arena became tainted with spilled blood, then the whole sacrifice will be spoiled, and that is also one of the reasons he was goading on. And then Krishna had given a promise to Sisupala's mother that, "I will tolerate his insults for a hundred times but no more" and as Sisupala was ranting on and on speaking the insults he lost count but Krishna did not lose count, and as soon as the count exceeded hundred Krishna said that, "This person right from his childhood has been insulting me, but I have tolerated him, but today after honoring the word that I gave to his mother; that he has exceeded a count of hundred for blashphemy today I will kill him. And immediately Krishna summoned his sudarshan chakra, and the Sudarshan chakra appeared and Krishna just dispatched it and it just whizzed past the arena just across all the watching warriors. Sisupal had his sword raised up and he tried to move his sword to stop the sudarshana, but the sudarshan chakra came in such a blinding speed that his sword was rendered powerless against it and right in front of everyone the sudarshan Chakra performed a bloodless head transplantation. His head just knocked off and Sisupal fell down dead, but no blood was spilled. It was a miraculous way in which Krishna saved the sacrifice of Yudhisthir and he maintained the sanctity of the arena. Here Bhisma glorified the Lord of his heart and considered the glory of Yudhisthir more important than his own glory, and that's why he tolerated the grievous insult and let Krishna in his own miraculous way set things right.
Bhisma is seen in the Mahabharat repeatedly as a great Ksatriya, as a knower of dharma, but in this particular incident he is also seen a devotee who is glorifying the Lord. His knowledge of dharma culminates in knowledge of pure devotion and that pure devotion centers on glorification of the supreme Lord's prowess, his position, his amazing abilities, and tha's what Bhisma does over here, and then after the Rajasurya sacrifice was performed Bhisma with a very joyous and jubilant heart returned
back to Hastinapur, but in contrast one heart was in a state of entirely opposite of joy and jubilation. That heart was the heart of Duryodhana who was burning with envy seeing the prosperity of the Pandava's, and he hatched by Sakuni's instigation an evil scheme of cheating the Pandava's of all their wealth and indeed their whole kingdom by a rigged gambling match.
Bhisma was such a powerful ruler that in a fair fight none of the world's ksatriyas could combat him, but circumstances conspired in such a way that he had to be present and be passive in the assembly where the Pandava's were dispossessed of everything and their caste wife Draupdi was horribly dishonored. When the gambling match was about to take place Bhisma strongly opposed it as did Vidura, but Duryodhana was adamant and Dhritarastra was weak minded. Dritarastra said, "It is just a friendly match." But it was not friendly because Sakuni plundered away all the wealth of the Pandava's, and even instigated them to be bet themselves and bet Draupadi also. Bhisma could have risen in force and opposed what had happened, but he was orchestrated by the Lord in such a way as to demonstrate the glorious truth.
What is the glorious truth? Externally when Draupadi begged to the Kuru assembly to offer her justice, she raised the question, "If Yudhisthir had gambled himself already then does he have the right to gamble me? How could he have possibly gambled me?" When this question was raised nobody answered. So, Bhisma forced to answer and Bhisma said, "Actually the laws of morality are very difficult to ascertain and a wife is always considered to be under the care and the custody of her husband. At the same time if a person has lost oneself, then one does not possess anything. Given both these rules my mind is confused and I cannot tell what is the right."
Bhisma is dharmajna and he pacifies Yudhisthir in a situation in which nobody else was able to pacify after the huge bloodshed that happened in the Kuruksetra war. He certainly knows dharma but in this particular situation he was caught up in an ethical crisis by the arrangement of the Lord and he couldn't understand. This is an example by the Lord's arrangement an example of Niyamagraha. Niyamagraha mean sticking to the letter of rule without understanding the principle of the rule. One rule is that the wife is always under the custody of the husband; the other rule is that, a person who has lost himself cannot possess anything else. Either way, whatever be the right rule the far higher principle is that one should not be dishonored in the public assembly.
It was arranged by the Lord that Bhisma act in a passive way over there so that far more important truth could be demonstrated. The truth was that, in this world we may have many protectors and yet such crisis can come when we will have no protector except the supreme protector, who is Krishna. Draupadi had her five powerful husbands and she had such elders like Bhisma, but still nobody could help her at that time when she was being dishonored, and finally it was Krishna who helped her.
Later on also when the Pandava's were exiled Bhisma realized that this conflict has gone too far and now there is going to be a war. He tried again and again to counsel Duryodhana, but Duryodhana was beyond listening. When Duryodhana went to Kamyaka to flaunt his wealth but returned, instead of being completely dishonored again Bhisma tried to give him good advice by telling him, "Settle for peace with the Pandavas. If you give them their kingdom back you can have peace." Duyodhana was not ready to listen at all and said, "No way am I going to give the kingdom to them." Bhisma was listening to him and
Duryodhana was not even paying attention. Bhisma realized that the destruction of the dynasty was up, and as the twelve years got over, and then for one year the Pandava's vanished to incognito exile and stayed in the Virata's kingdom, the Kuru's got the suspicion that the Pandava's might be there because Kichaka had been killed when very few people we capable of killing Kichaka. So, the Kaurava's decided to attack Virat and they send Susarma, one of their allies to attack from the other side. And Virat along with his army went to that side to protect, and from the other side the whole Kuru army along with their great generals attacked. Then Bhumanjaya who was the acting head of state at that time came along with Arjuna who had taken the garb of a eunuch named Brihanalla; and Arjuna became a warrior and he fought.
At that time when the army was about to have a confrontation when the one year of incognito exile was over, Arjuna made his appearance. He shed off the appearance of an eunuch and took up the weapon and started shooting, and the first thing that he did was, he shot arrows at the feet of Bhisma, not at the body of Bhisma. He also shot arrows at the feet of Drona and Kripa offering them obeisance's and seeking their blessings. When he blew his conch shell, at that time he twanged his bow and Bhisma's heart leapt with joy that the Padavas were well and his beloved Partha was there, but how unfair and cruel was destiny that after thirteen long years of separation he could not embrace the Pandava's but he had fight with arrows. At that time Duryodhana thought that the Pandava's have been detected before the one year was over, and that is why they had to go back into exile again. But Bhisma gave systematic calculations telling how the one year had already got over, and he knew that Arjuna would not have made his appearance if the one year had not got over. The timing had been perfect and precise. But there are calculations that can be made according to the different calendars like the lunar calendar or solar calendar. That's why sometimes the same festival is celebrated in two different days. Like Janmasthami is celebrated in one day by one group of people and on another day by another group of people. That is because they follow different calendar conventions. So, Duryodhana tried to use the calendar conflict to force the Pandava's into exile again, and try to rationalize and say that the Pandavas have not completed one year. But Bhisma could take in no more. He said, "Enough injustice has happened and actually the Pandavas have fairly spend one year in the forest and now they have appeared back." That time was the first time when Bhisma saw the Pandavas after thirteen years but they had a fight. But Arjuna overcame everyone even including Bhisma. He used celestial weapons and Bhisma fought fiercely. Bhisma was proud to see the prowess of Arjuna but still because he was a ksatriya he fought to his full prowess. Arjuna also fought to his full prowess and Arjuna overpowered Bhisma. Then Arjuna departed with the wealth that had been stolen and the Kaurava's had to go back. Bhisma left that scene with mixed feelings. He was happy to know that the Pandava's were safe and that they had survived the forest exile as well as the incognito period, but he was sad that there seemed to be no chance of cessation of hostilities, and when the war eventually came about, Bhisma because of his word of honor to side by the Kuru ruling head had to side with the Duryodhana and Dhritarastra.
At an external level it may seem that Bhisma fought because he was bound by wealth. He said, "Actually they have provided and maintained me. Therefore I have to fight for them." That is a very superficial reason because actually he was older to them. In fact he was like a father figure to even Dhritarastra and a grandfather to a generation of the Pandava's and Kaurava's. Actually he fought on the side of the Kaurava's because Krishna wanted him to. Krishna inspired him from within his heart to make that
choice. Why? Because by fighting on the side of the Kaurava's Krishna wanted him to demonstrate another extraordinary devotional principle: no matter how powerful, learned and virtuous a person may be, but if that person goes against the will of God, that person will perish.
Bhisma as far as martial skills are concerned had no equal. He had defeated Parsuram who had defeated all the ksatriya warriors twenty one times. As far as scriptural knowledge was concerned he had no equal. He was trained by Markendya, Bhrihaspati, Sukracharya and by many great sages, and he had decades and decades of experience in administration and diplomacy, but in spite of all this when he sided with the Kauravas he failed. Actually he knew that maybe he would be misunderstood because he chose to fight on the side of evil, but he was ready to do that because he knew that that was the will of the Lord, and that will of the Lord he was ready to fulfill, even if that meant sacrificing his reputation.
How Bhisma did an extraordinary service to the Lord by demonstrating the sublime and inconceivable beauty of Virya rasa on the battlefield of Kurukshetra is demonstrated in the picture behind.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Hare Krishna.


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A wave of joy
Two fins crested the water ahead of us and I craned over the side to get a proper look.
There must have been at least 30 dolphins in the water, small grey-blue bodies darting around the nose of the boat. Our visitors played with us for a few blissful minutes until the captain picked up pace and we sped away.
I was heading to a remote fishing village to stay at the Madagascar Surf Resort in the south of the country, a spot as picturesque as it is remote. In the afternoons, as the fishermen race boats carved from tree trunks, clouds of steam rise up in the distance from humpback whales crossing the Mozambique Channel.
At sunrise on our first morning a small boat was waiting for us on the beach. Jean, our pot-bellied local captain, stood with one foot on the sand and the other resting on the boat as shards of sunlight pushed through the clouds. A rooster crowed proudly from the nearby village. In the distance I could see thin lines of white appearing and melting away, a silent reminder of the ocean held at bay by our peaceful lagoon. I felt a pang in my stomach, the uneasy mix of excitement and nerves before surfing in a new spot. While my stomach roiled, Jean took us to a peeling reef break called Roger's Right. It's a wave that rolls fresh out of the open ocean from Mozambique and onto a green mossy reef.
The wave breaks from right to left in a perfect wall of clear water, starting with fast and powerful take-off that barrels on the big days and mellowing into a gently sloping wall. The sun blazed through the clouds and lit up the ocean as we arrived. We could finally see what we had heard about all along – there wasn't a single surfer in the water. Only us. We surfed for 10 straight days and met just three other surfers in that time. That's the same ratio of surfers to humpback whales that we came across.
In the long and sleepy afternoons spent back on shore, the sound of children singing and dancing rang out all day long. When there was even a ripple of a wave, the kids grab homemade surfboards and race into the water naked, without a thought for the sharp coral beneath. From the sun-kissed beach I saw two little boys in the water, one of them surfing a log – an actual log – no thicker than your thigh. The other boy had a slab of wood carved into the shape of a surfboard, with a wide nose and a thinner end for the tail. The pair squealed and hooted as they paddled, grinning so hard that you could see every tooth. Each wave, no matter how small, was a victory. Their arms whirled in circles as they raced back and forth along the surf break.
One of the boys spotted me and ran up the beach, blurting out a muddle of French and Malagasy. I guessed that he was asking me to swap boards with him. 'Of course!' I said. Ten minutes later, the beaming face was bounding back up the beach with my board, lovingly wrapping up the leash.
Our trip comprised of an assorted crew, two professional surfers from the WSL qualifying series, a physiotherapist from Ireland and a surf coach from Portugal. We had travelled so far from home that we were uprooted from everything we knew. The playful lightheartedness of Madagascar permeated us completely. In the surf we would whoop each other into every wave and shout tips to each other as we passed. Even on the biggest days the atmosphere was lighthearted and supportive which, I noticed, gave me the confidence to choose waves that I would normally shy away from.
One night at dinner Leonor, one of the professional surfers, was checking the surf report and screeched with excitement.
"Eight foot and perfect wind tomorrow!" She said. The others craned over her should to check the report too, everyone was itching with excitement.
In bed that night all I could hear were the waves viciously pounding the reef in the dark, every new crash made my stomach turn. The thought of surfing eight-foot waves filled me with fear. When morning arrived I dragged my sleep-deprived body to the boat, unsure of what was to come. When we arrived at the reef, thankfully the waves had dropped to a manageable four to six foot. I jumped from the boat and raced the others to the line-up.
The take-off spot requires a strong paddle and quick pop up. I watched Lucy and Leonor (the professionals) drop into the steepest, fastest waves with total ease. I moved into position to take a wave myself, a crest of green-blue swell lined up behind me. As the wave rolled closer I could see that it was one of the bigger set waves. I paused for a moment, considering whether to commit. In the distance I heard the hoots and cheers of the others calling me into the wave, so I gritted my teeth, turned towards the reef and paddled with everything I had. The wave surged underneath me, lifted me forwards at speed. I moved instinctually, leaping to my feet and turning to face the wave. My arms opened wide to lift and turn my body. I carved a line along the face of the wave, not the sharp, spraying turns of the professionals, but my own slow carving style. It felt like flying, my feet almost lifting away from my board and coasting on the wall of water.
A surge of pure joy pulsed through me, and I understood exactly what William Finnegan meant when he described surfing, as 'brief, sharp glimpses of eternity'. As the wave slowed, I jumped over the white water and the experience of bliss was punctuated by the silence of the underwater world. After a few days of joy in the water, Leonor introduced an idea that put our experiences into perspective. Affordance is a term that was coined by an American psychologist in the 1970s, the idea that our intentions and capabilities define what we consider to be a suitable environment.
I've never come across a description so befitting of surfing before. In an activity so fast-paced and instinctual, intentions define the way we surf. If your sense is that you cannot surf in certain conditions, your body will react suitably, you'll be too slow on the take-off and you'll probably bail your board – but if you increase your comfort zone to encompass the conditions you're in, the chance is that your reactions will adapt to allow you to surf those waves. That might sound blindingly obvious, but the role of fear in surfing is important. When we are confronted by a situation that scares us, our idea of what is possible is limited and as a result, our bodies limit our capacity to handle the situation. If we feel overwhelmed our breath becomes short and our ability to think creatively and to adapt is limited. The sympathetic nervous system kicks into action and we cannot hold our breath as long as normal. When we are controlled by our fears, our affordance, or our perception of what is possible, is limited. Of course, you need certain paddling and pop-up skills to get you around but so much of what limits us is ourselves. In Madagascar I surfed next to women who paddled into the biggest waves, risked the biggest wipe-outs and pulled it all off.
When I found myself in a situation that challenged my comfort zone I thought of those children on the beach, of the joy and curiosity of this vibrant paradise. When I allowed myself to feel comfortable, allowed myself to believe that I could surf in those conditions, I found I could. So now, when things get overwhelming in the surf, I think of those kids dancing on the beach, I choose playfulness over fear.
Photographs courtesy of Elly Whittaker and Madagascar Surf Resort.
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Painting with Bob Ross—with artwork created by Bob Ross himself using his specially formulated oil paints, brushes, basecoats, and other tools—introduces artists and Bob Ross fans to the basics of painting landscapes. Everyone will enjoy Painting with Bob Ross, as his "happy accidents" approach makes this challenging subject matter enjoyable for all ages, regardless of skill level and materials used.
"All you need is the desire to make beautiful things happen on canvas…" —Bob Ross
In 1982, The Joy of Painting made its debut on public television. The unrehearsed, unedited show soon became a favorite among aspiring artists and painters. Almost 40 years and 403 episodes after his on-air debut, and decades after his untimely passing, Bob Ross still has enormous global popularity as a beloved painter, affable TV personality, and cultural icon.
With this guide, you can learn to paint a happy tree in seconds, just like Bob Ross! Painting with Bob Ross introduces you to the tools and materials you need to paint beautiful landscapes, as well as basic painting techniques, such as how to load your brush.
Following the introduction are 16 painting projects, each with a complete list of tools and materials needed and instructions for preparing the canvas. Jump into painting with step one, then follow the full-color painting progressions and clearly written instructions until you've reached the final step—and your new, joyful work of art! This is the only Bob Ross book with all-color images.
Even if you're brand new to painting, remember that Bob said, "Talent is nothing more than a pursued interest. All you need to paint is a few tools, a little instruction, and a vision in your mind." Throughout this book, Bob's quotes encourage you to keep going.
So grab your copy of Painting with Bob Ross, relax and unwind, and paint a Bob Ross-inspired landscape! You can paint graceful mountains, ocean waves crashing onto rocks, a winter cabin, a lakeside path, a deep forest river, and many more breathtaking views. And don't forget to sign each of your masterpieces once you've completed the last step!
- Publisher : Walter Foster Publishing; Illustrated edition (October 2, 2018)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 128 pages
- Reading age : 8 years and up
- Item Weight : 1.15 pounds
- Dimensions : 8.5 x 0.65 x 11 inches


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10 Ways to Grow Your Local Business
When you're just starting out in your business or hoping to expand, it can be hard to know where to start and what steps to take. There are so many avenues you could pursue in order to grow your customer base and bring in more revenue that it can become overwhelming if you don't have a plan of action already formulated in your head. This guide will help you develop a clear path toward growing your business locally, with 10 practical ways to do it right away.
1) Get involved in the community
Participating in your community can help you grow your business both locally and globally. There are many ways that you can get involved with the community and one of the best is by volunteering. Volunteering not only helps other people, it also strengthens your company culture and builds better relationships with customers. If you're looking for more ideas on how to get involved, here are some local organizations that you could volunteer with:
2) Sponsor local events
Sponsoring local events is a great way to be seen by the community and show that you care. Try sponsoring or hosting an event where people can get together and have fun. This will help build awareness for your business and make people feel good about your brand at the same time.
3) Use local suppliers
In order to make a name for your business in the community, it's important to use local suppliers. This is one way you can help strengthen the economy and keep money in your own community. Plus, this saves on shipping costs, which makes things easier on your bottom line.
- Talk with other businesses in the area and ask them who they rely on for products or services. 2) Search online for local suppliers and call them up.
4) Give back to the community
There are many ways you can give back to your community. For example, you can donate your unused goods or services, which will help those in need. You can also be a good neighbor and do something nice for someone around the block. Giving back is not about money—it's about sharing what you have and demonstrating that you care.
5) Invest in local talent
Local talent is often overlooked by business owners, but investing in them can be the key to success for many businesses. When you invest in local talent, you help your community grow. Plus, your customers will love supporting a local business and will feel better knowing they're giving back! The most important thing to remember when investing in local talent is that it's not just about what they can do for you – it's about what they can do for the community.
6) Create a loyalty program
One way to grow your business locally is by establishing a loyalty program. By incentivizing customers with rewards for every purchase, you can motivate them to keep coming back for more and help build up their repeat customer base.
7) Offer discounts and promotions
One of the best ways you can grow your business locally is by offering discounts and promotions. Offer something special on social media, or even print flyers with deals on products or services. You can also offer discounts in-store, like buy one get one free offers.
Another way you may be able to grow your local business is by hosting events.
8) Advertise in local media
There are many ways to advertise in local media and some of them are more affordable than others. The first way is by placing an ad in your local newspaper. This is a good way to get the word out about your business, but it will cost you a decent amount of money. Another option for advertising locally is through social media.
9) Make use of social media
There are many different ways to grow your local business, but one of the most effective is through social media. Social media is a great way to market your products and services, and it can be used to connect with potential new customers. Here are 10 ways you can use social media for your business: 1) Connect with people on LinkedIn and Facebook. 2) Join groups related to your industry or interest. 3) Use hashtags when promoting something
10) Make it easy for locals to support you
The best way to grow your business locally is through word of mouth and referrals. If you want locals to support you, make it easy for them. Offer a loyalty program or coupon codes for those who sign up for your newsletter or follow you on social media platforms. The more they are engaged with your company, the more they will want to go out of their way to help promote it. Make sure you have an attractive website that is user-friendly with quality content and images.
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When do businesses pay vat?
Businesses pay VAT when they are registered for VAT and supply goods or services in the UK. VAT, or Value Added Tax, is a tax charged on most goods and services that are bought and sold in the UK. It is important to understand when businesses must pay VAT as this affects their financial planning and budgeting. This blog post will provide an overview of when businesses pay VAT.
What is VAT?
Value Added Tax (VAT) is a type of tax that businesses must pay on the goods and services they sell. It is levied on the value added to a product or service at each stage of the production and distribution process. VAT is collected by businesses and then remitted to the government, thus businesses pay VAT on their taxable sales.
VAT is a type of indirect tax that is ultimately passed on to consumers through the prices of goods and services. This type of taxation ensures that businesses bear the cost of paying for their goods and services rather than having it directly deducted from their profits. It also helps to encourage fair competition between businesses in the same industry, as everyone must pay the same rate of VAT on the goods and services they sell. As such, businesses pay VAT to remain compliant with their tax obligations.
Who Has to Register for VAT?
Businesses must register for VAT if they have a taxable turnover of more than £85,000 in any 12 months. Businesses with a taxable turnover below this threshold are not required to register for VAT.
Businesses that register for VAT must charge VAT on their goods and services, collect it from customers and pay it over to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This is known as businesses paying vat.
Businesses can also voluntarily register for VAT even if their taxable turnover is below the threshold. Doing so allows them to reclaim VAT charged by suppliers on goods and services.
When Do Businesses Pay VAT?
Businesses must pay their Value Added Tax (VAT) by the rules set out by HMRC. The due date for payment will depend on the type of VAT return that the business has to complete.
If a business completes a VAT return on a calendar basis, then it will be required to make payments to HMRC on the same basis. This means that businesses must submit and pay their VAT returns quarterly, usually within one month and seven days of the end of the VAT period. For example, if the VAT period is from 1st October to 31st December, then the payment must be made by 7th February.
In some cases, businesses may be able to benefit from monthly payments or defer payments until later in the year. If your business is eligible, you can apply to HMRC and request these options.
Businesses need to keep track of when their payments are due, as failing to make payments on time can lead to severe penalties. A business can also reclaim any overpaid VAT in the next return if it discovers any mistakes or discrepancies in its calculations.
Making sure that businesses pay their VAT on time is key to helping ensure that taxes are paid correctly and efficiently. By understanding the rules around when to pay VAT, businesses can help ensure that they are compliant and avoid any potential penalties from HMRC.
How Do Businesses Pay VAT?
Businesses pay VAT by submitting a VAT Return to HMRC every three months. This is done using an online system, through the post, or using commercial software. The return must include the total amount of VAT due on sales and the total amount of VAT reclaimed on purchases. Businesses then calculate the difference between these two amounts and make sure to pay HMRC the correct amount. For businesses registered for Making Tax Digital (MTD), VAT Returns must be submitted digitally via a computer program or application connected to HMRC's systems. Businesses can also register for HMRC's Direct Debit service, which means they won't have to manually submit payments each quarter. Businesses must keep accurate records of all their transactions to make sure they pay the right amount of VAT.
What is Value Added Tax (VAT)?
Value Added Tax (VAT) is a type of consumption tax that is placed on a product whenever value is added at each stage of the supply chain, from production to the point of sale. Businesses pay VAT when they sell goods or services to their customers, with the amount of tax payable based on the difference between the purchase price and the cost of producing or supplying the goods or services. The amount of VAT paid will then be included in the final price paid by the customer. All businesses which are registered for VAT must charge it on their sales, and businesses that are registered and above the VAT threshold are also required to pay it to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
How VAT Is Calculated
VAT (Value Added Tax) is calculated on the basis of the gross sales price of goods and services. The VAT rate is expressed as a percentage, usually ranging from 5% to 27%. When businesses pay VAT, the amount due is calculated by multiplying the gross sales price by the applicable VAT rate. For example, if a business sells a product for €100 and the applicable VAT rate is 17%, then the amount of VAT due would be €17.
When do Businesses Pay VAT?
Businesses pay VAT when they have exceeded their taxable turnover threshold, which is currently £85,000. This means that any business with a turnover of over this amount in any 12 month period must register for VAT and start paying it. If a business falls below this amount then they are not required to register for VAT and will not need to pay it.
When businesses have registered for VAT they will be required to make regular payments to HMRC. This can either be done on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on the size of the business and its turnover. A monthly payment schedule is usually necessary for businesses that have a high turnover rate. All businesses registered for VAT must file a VAT return, typically on a quarterly basis, and submit any outstanding payments due to HMRC.
For businesses that are able to register for and pay their VAT regularly on time, there are several benefits. The most obvious one is that it can help a business increase their cash flow, as the money can be used to purchase goods or services without having to wait for customers to pay. Additionally, if a business pays their VAT on time it also shows that they are financially organised and responsible – something that potential customers may look favourably upon.
It is important to note that late payment of VAT can have serious consequences for businesses, including fines and penalties from HMRC. If a business finds itself unable to make a payment on time then it should contact HMRC as soon as possible to explain their situation and arrange an alternative payment plan if needed.
What Happens if a Business Doesn't Pay its VAT on Time?
When businesses pay VAT, it is important to ensure that payments are made on time. If a business fails to pay its VAT on time, there are a number of consequences that may occur. The first consequence is that the business may be charged a penalty. This penalty can vary from 0.5% to 15% of the unpaid amount depending on the severity of the situation. This penalty may increase further if payment is delayed for more than three months.
In addition to penalties, businesses that do not pay their VAT on time can also incur additional costs in the form of interest. Interest is calculated at an annual rate of 3% and is added to any outstanding balance.
Finally, businesses may also face legal action if they fail to pay their VAT on time. Depending on the severity of the situation, a court may order the company to liquidate its assets or file for bankruptcy.
It is therefore essential that businesses pay their VAT on time to avoid any potential financial and legal issues. Additionally, businesses should take steps to ensure that they are up to date with their payments so that they can enjoy the benefits associated with registering for and paying their VAT on time.
The Benefits of Registering for and Paying your VAT on Time
Registering for and paying your VAT on time can provide businesses with numerous advantages. Firstly, it enables businesses to meet their obligations as a taxpayer, ensuring they remain compliant with the law. Secondly, by registering for VAT, businesses can protect themselves from any potential financial losses. For example, if a business has paid its taxes but has not registered for VAT, the government may not consider them eligible for tax refunds or incentives in the future.
Paying your VAT on time can also help businesses ensure their long-term financial stability. By meeting their obligations as a taxpayer and remaining compliant, businesses can improve their credit rating and secure more advantageous terms when taking out loans or seeking investment opportunities. This in turn can help businesses grow and expand, allowing them to become more competitive in the marketplace.
Finally, when businesses pay their VAT on time they demonstrate professionalism and an understanding of their responsibilities as a taxpayer. This will be reflected in the public perception of the business and can help to create trust and goodwill amongst customers.
In summary, registering for and paying your VAT on time is essential for any business that wants to remain compliant, secure its long-term financial stability, and establish trust amongst customers. Taking the time to understand the obligations associated with businesses pay vat can ensure your business can benefit from these advantages for years to come.
Advantages and Disadvantages of VAT for Businesses
VAT (Value Added Tax) is a sales tax imposed by the government on the sale of goods and services. It can be seen as a form of indirect taxation and is one of the most common methods of taxation used in many countries across the world. While businesses pay VAT, they also benefit from certain advantages that come with it. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider.
One of the main advantages for businesses of paying VAT is that it gives them an additional source of revenue which can be used to invest in the business and generate more profits. This can also help reduce the burden of corporate tax liabilities. Furthermore, businesses benefit from VAT in terms of its ease of collection, as the customer pays the tax at the time of purchase, thus making it easier for businesses to track their sales figures. In addition, VAT helps promote fairness in the marketplace by allowing businesses to compete on a level playing field.
While VAT can be beneficial for businesses, there are also some disadvantages associated with it. One of the main drawbacks is that it can be a complicated and time-consuming process to register and comply with the requirements of VAT regulations. Additionally, some businesses may find it difficult to pass on their VAT costs to customers without raising their prices, which could lead to decreased sales. Finally, businesses may also find it difficult to keep up with changing VAT regulations, which can be complex and may require significant effort to stay compliant.
Overall, while businesses pay VAT, they also benefit from its advantages such as additional revenue and ease of collection. However, it's important for businesses to be aware of the potential drawbacks such as complex registration and compliance requirements, difficulty passing on costs to customers, and the need to keep up with changing regulations.
Changes in VAT Rates
VAT rates can change from time to time, so it is important for businesses to stay up-to-date with any changes. The standard VAT rate in the UK is 20%, however, some goods and services are charged at a reduced rate of 5%, while certain items may be exempt from VAT altogether. In certain circumstances, businesses can also benefit from a zero-rated VAT rate. It is important to remember that the rate of VAT that businesses pay on their goods and services can change, so they must keep up-to-date with the latest rules and regulations in order to ensure that they are paying the correct amount of VAT when they pay vat.
Penalties for Failing to Pay VAT
Failing to pay your VAT on time can have serious consequences for businesses. Penalties may be imposed by the HMRC on businesses that fail to pay their VAT. A business may be fined up to 15% of the amount owed and be required to pay interest on any late payment. In some cases, a criminal prosecution may be pursued if the business has been found to deliberately avoid paying VAT.
Businesses who fail to pay their VAT can also be denied access to tax credits and deductions which could have significant financial implications. The HMRC can also refuse to pay out any refunds that are due and may even take legal action to recover the amounts owed.
In addition to financial penalties, businesses may also face reputational damage if they do not pay their VAT on time. This could lead to a loss of customers and other negative consequences for the business.
It is therefore important for businesses to ensure that they pay their VAT on time in order to avoid any potential penalties and damage to their reputation.
Businesses pay VAT to the government in order to help finance public services. VAT is charged on the sale of goods and services and is typically set at a rate of 15%, although there are variations depending on the type of product being sold. All businesses that have a turnover over a certain amount are required to register for VAT and must keep records of their income and expenditure. Businesses have to pay VAT on time or they risk incurring penalties. Keeping track of when payments are due and understanding the rules around VAT can help businesses to ensure they are compliant with their obligations. With the right knowledge and advice, businesses can navigate the complex world of taxation and ensure they pay their VAT on time.
How to start paper bag business at home
Do you want to start a paper bag business from the comfort of your own home? You're in luck! It's never been easier to launch a small business and paper bags are always in demand. This blog post will provide you with all the information you need to get started, including supplies, design ideas, marketing tips, and more. So, if you're ready to make a success of your paper bag business, read on!
What is a Paper Bag Business?
A paper bag business is a type of business that produces and sells paper bags to customers. Paper bags are used in a variety of settings, including grocery stores, restaurants, and markets. They can also be used for carrying items, packing lunches, or as gift bags.
Paper bag businesses can produce various types of bags, such as ones made of Kraft paper, food-grade paper, or laminated paper. There are a few different types of paper bag businesses that you can consider when starting your own. These include customized paper bag businesses, retail paper bag businesses, and kitchen supply store paper bag businesses.
Customized paper bag businesses specialize in producing custom-made paper bags with designs, logos, and other decorations tailored to each customer's individual needs. Retail paper bag businesses sell ready-made paper bags in bulk for customers who need a large quantity quickly. Kitchen supply store paper bag businesses offer pre-printed and blank paper bags that can be used for packing items or serving food.
No matter what type of paper bag business you decide to start, you will need to have access to the necessary supplies such as high-quality printing machines, specialty papers, and packaging materials. You will also need to develop a reliable customer base to ensure your business is successful.
The Different Types of Paper Bag Businesses
Paper bag businesses can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type of paper bag business that you choose will depend on your budget, the amount of space you have, and the types of products you want to carry. Here are some of the most common types of paper bag businesses:
Customized Paper Bag Businesses: These businesses offer customized paper bags for special events, gifts, or retail stores. Customers can create their own paper bags with their own designs, logos, and text. These custom paper bags can be made with a variety of materials including paper, burlap, fabric, and more.
Retail Paper Bag Businesses: Retail paper bag businesses specialize in selling paper bags to customers directly from the store. Customers can buy single bags, or bulk packages of paper bags for their needs. These businesses may also specialize in specific types of paper bags, such as gift bags, mailing bags, grocery bags, and more.
Kitchen Supply Store Paper Bag Businesses: These businesses specialize in supplying kitchen supply stores with paper bags for food packaging needs. They may offer a variety of options including grocery bags, lunch bags, and food containers.
No matter what type of paper bag business you choose, it is important to ensure that the product you are offering meets all safety requirements and that your customers are satisfied with their purchase. By taking the time to research the different types of paper bag businesses, you will be able to make sure that you are providing the best product possible for your customers.
Customized Paper Bag Businesses
Customized paper bag businesses offer customers the opportunity to have bags printed with their own design or logo. This type of business is great for companies that want to promote their brand or advertise special events. Customers typically provide their own artwork or logos for these types of orders, which can range from simple text and images to complex designs. Some businesses may also offer design services as an additional fee. Customized paper bags are also popular for weddings, birthday parties, baby showers, and other special occasions.
Creating customized paper bags requires a few different steps. Firstly, you will need to acquire a printer and the proper supplies. You can purchase printing equipment and paper rolls online or through a local distributor. Once you have the necessary items, you will need to create templates for each customer's order and then print the design onto the paper bags. Depending on your budget, you may also want to invest in a machine that allows you to quickly and accurately cut out shapes from the paper roll.
The cost of materials will vary depending on the size and type of bag you are making, so make sure to factor that into your pricing structure. It is also important to consider the time and labor costs associated with creating customized paper bags. If you are going to be creating multiple orders per week, you may want to hire additional staff or use a subcontractor to help with the production process. Finally, you should take into account shipping costs when providing quotes for customers.
Kitchen Supply Store Paper Bag Businesses
If you're looking to start a paper bag business that specializes in selling kitchen supplies, you should consider selling paper bags. Kitchen supply stores are always looking for ways to provide customers with more convenience and having paper bags on hand is an easy way to do that. Selling paper bags at a kitchen supply store can be very profitable, as many customers will purchase them as they shop.
There are several things you should keep in mind when starting a paper bag business that specializes in kitchen supplies. First, you will need to have a variety of sizes and styles of paper bags available. Different kitchen supplies require different sized bags, so it's important to have options available for customers. Second, you should research what types of kitchen supplies customers typically purchase at kitchen supply stores and stock the appropriate type of paper bags accordingly. Third, make sure to keep an eye on trends in the industry and adjust your product line as needed.
Finally, make sure to promote your paper bag business within the kitchen supply store itself. For example, you can offer discounts to customers who purchase both kitchen supplies and paper bags from your store. Additionally, you can place promotional flyers and signs around the store that advertise your paper bag selection. By doing this, you can reach more customers and increase sales.
By following these tips, you can successfully launch a paper bag business that specializes in kitchen supplies. With the right approach, you can make sure your business is a success!
Retail Paper Bag Businesses
Retail paper bag businesses are those that focus on selling paper bags to customers for retail purposes. These businesses can be successful for those looking to capitalize on the eco-friendly trend and offer customers sustainable packaging options. Retail paper bag businesses are best suited for stores that specialize in eco-friendly products and packaging, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
When starting a retail paper bag business, you will need to ensure that you have a good selection of bags available in various sizes, shapes, and colors. You will also want to make sure that the bags you choose are of high quality, as this will help ensure customer satisfaction. Additionally, you will want to consider offering custom printing on your bags, which can be used to market your business and increase brand recognition. Additionally, many customers may prefer customized paper bags, so it is important to make sure that you offer this service.
It is also important to consider the cost of your paper bag business. While some paper bags may be very affordable, others may be more expensive due to their quality or the custom printing required. Be sure to research the costs associated with each option to ensure that you can remain competitive in the market. Furthermore, you should also look into ways to save money when buying your bags in bulk, as this can help reduce overhead costs.
Finally, you will want to think about how you plan on marketing your business. This could include using social media, email campaigns, and other digital marketing strategies to reach potential customers and generate sales. You should also consider creating promotional materials such as flyers or brochures to distribute in the local area, as well as participating in trade shows and other events.
How to start paper bag business at home
Starting a paper bag business at home can be a great way to generate extra income while keeping your overhead costs low. Whether you are a small business looking to supplement your existing product line, or an individual wanting to take advantage of a growing trend in eco-friendly packaging, paper bags are becoming increasingly popular as more people strive to reduce their carbon footprint. Here are four tips to get you started on your own paper bag business.
1. Consider Your Customers: Before you launch your business, make sure that you identify who your potential customers are and what types of paper bags they will need. Are you catering to businesses looking for packaging for their products? Or are you creating custom designs for individual customers? Knowing who your target audience is will help you decide which types of paper bags to focus on.
2. Investigate Different Types of Paper Bags: There are several different types of paper bags available, including custom designed bags, kitchen supply store bags, and retail bags. Research the different types to determine which type of bag will best meet the needs of your target market. Consider the size and strength of each type to ensure that your bags will be able to handle the products that your customers need them for.
3. Calculate Your Costs: Once you have identified the type of paper bag that you want to use, you need to calculate how much it will cost you to make and package the bags. Make sure that you factor in any costs associated with shipping, printing and other expenses such as taxes. This will help you determine your pricing structure so that you can make a profit while also offering competitive prices to your customers.
4. Promote Your Business: In order to get your business off the ground, you will need to promote it. Create a website and social media accounts to reach potential customers. Advertise in local publications or use word-of-mouth marketing to spread the word about your business. You can also attend trade shows or conventions where potential customers may be present.
Once you have taken these steps, you are ready to start your paper bag business at home! With the right strategies and dedication, you can create a successful business that is both profitable and environmentally friendly. Good luck!
Costs Associated with Starting a Paper Bag Business
Starting a paper bag business requires an initial investment to cover the cost of materials, equipment, and other necessary expenses. Depending on the type of paper bag business you're looking to start, there are various costs associated with setting up shop.
Materials: The cost of paper bag material can vary greatly depending on the size and quality of the product. The most common types of paper bags are kraft paper, cardstock, and corrugated cardboard. Each material has its own unique cost associated with it.
Equipment: The necessary equipment needed to manufacture paper bags includes cutting tables, heat presses, rollers, creasers, staplers, and adhesive machines. Depending on the type of business you plan to run, some or all of these machines may be required.
Marketing: Marketing your paper bag business is essential for attracting new customers and staying top-of-mind in the industry. You will need to budget for advertising, promotional materials, and website design. Additionally, you may want to consider working with an outside marketing agency or freelancer to help with branding and other marketing efforts.
Labor: You will need to budget for labor costs when starting a paper bag business. This could include hiring staff to help with production, customer service, and sales. It's important to accurately estimate labor costs before starting a business so you can create a realistic budget.
These are just some of the costs associated with starting a paper bag business. As you begin your research and planning process, make sure to factor in these costs to ensure that your business is viable and successful.
The Benefits of Owning a Paper Bag Business
Starting a paper bag business can be an exciting venture with plenty of potential for growth. There are many advantages to owning a paper bag business, including:
1. Low startup costs – It's relatively inexpensive to start a paper bag business. All you need is the equipment to produce the bags, and the raw materials used to make them. This makes it a great option for those who want to start their own business with a limited budget.
2. Flexible working hours – Owning a paper bag business means you can work flexible hours, on your own schedule. You can adjust your hours according to customer demand and your own needs, so you can enjoy more free time for other things.
3. Increased profits – Since the paper bag industry is growing and competition is low, you have the opportunity to charge more for your bags than other companies and take advantage of the growing demand. This can lead to higher profits than what you would expect from traditional businesses.
4. Environmental responsibility – Paper bags are not only durable, but they are also recyclable and biodegradable, which makes them eco-friendly options for carrying goods. This gives you a chance to help reduce environmental pollution and make a positive impact on the world.
Overall, owning a paper bag business offers plenty of benefits and can be a rewarding way to earn an income. With a little effort and dedication, you could create a successful business that provides you with an enjoyable work environment and sustainable profits.
Ready to start your own paper bag business? Here are four tips to get started:
1. Research the Market: Make sure to research the market for paper bag businesses and the products you plan to offer. Analyze what other companies are doing in the industry and determine if there is a need for your product. This will help you understand the level of competition you may face and what strategies you should use.
2. Determine Your Business Model: Consider which business model you will use – a custom paper bag business, retail paper bag business, or kitchen supply store paper bag business. Each option has its own unique advantages and disadvantages that must be considered before you decide which one is right for you.
3. Gather Resources: As with any business, starting a paper bag business requires resources such as equipment, supplies, and funding. Be sure to determine what resources are necessary to get started and create a budget to ensure that you have the funds needed to cover expenses.
4. Establish Relationships: Establish relationships with suppliers and customers to ensure that you have a steady supply of paper bags and a consistent customer base. This will also help you build trust within the industry and make it easier for customers to find you.
Starting a paper bag business at home can be a great way to generate extra income and be your own boss. With the right preparation and planning, you can easily launch a profitable business with little start-up costs. In order to make the most of your new venture, research the different types of paper bag businesses that are available, choose the one that best fits your goals, and create an effective marketing plan. Once you have the essentials in place, you'll be ready to start selling your paper bags and getting your business off the ground.
What can you do with a business degree?
A business degree is one of the most versatile and useful degrees that you can earn. With a business degree, you can pursue a wide range of career paths that span across many different industries. From banking and finance to marketing and management, a business degree can open the door to a variety of job opportunities. In this blog post, we'll explore what you can do with a business degree and how it can benefit your professional career.
What is a Business Degree?
A business degree is an academic qualification awarded by a university or college that focuses on business-related subjects. It can provide students with a broad understanding of business management, finance, accounting, and marketing, as well as the skills needed to succeed in the ever-evolving business environment. The curriculum for a business degree program can vary from school to school, but the core courses tend to include topics such as economics, organizational behavior, project management, and data analytics. A business degree can open up a wide variety of career paths for graduates, ranging from entry-level positions in corporate America to high-level management roles in the public and private sectors. With the right qualifications, a business degree can also provide a gateway to international opportunities, allowing graduates to pursue careers in global organizations.
Why Earn a Business Degree
Earning a business degree provides a wealth of opportunities for those interested in expanding their career prospects and exploring a variety of different career paths. A business degree can open up doors to leadership roles in fields ranging from finance to marketing, and it can help you gain an understanding of the inner workings of any business.
A business degree can help you develop the skills necessary to excel in your current job and move up the ladder. Business courses provide invaluable training in subjects such as accounting, economics, and communication, which are essential components of any successful career. Additionally, a business degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage personnel and other resources effectively and efficiently.
Having a business degree also provides access to a global network of professionals and employers. Having a degree from an accredited university indicates that you have the necessary skills to succeed in today's competitive global economy. You will also be able to stay current on the latest trends and developments in the business world by participating in seminars, conferences, and other networking events.
Finally, having a business degree is beneficial when it comes to career advancement. Employers are increasingly looking for qualified applicants who have a good understanding of the complexities of running a business. With a degree in business, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and contribute to the success of an organization.
10 In-Demand Careers That Require a Specialized Business Degree
- International Management Analyst: International management analysts help businesses, non-profits and government agencies identify areas of improvement and develop effective strategies to increase efficiency and profitability. This job requires a deep understanding of international economic, political and cultural factors.
- Renewable Energy Technology Managers: As renewable energy technology continues to grow in popularity, so does the demand for professionals who can manage its use and development. Business degree holders with an emphasis on energy technologies can expect to be in high demand.
- Healthcare Business Analyst: Healthcare business analysts specialize in identifying cost savings opportunities and helping healthcare organizations improve operations and procedures. Their knowledge of the healthcare industry and business principles makes them valuable contributors to many teams.
- Financial Examiner: Financial examiners oversee banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to ensure they are following appropriate financial regulations and laws. To do this effectively, financial examiners must have a thorough understanding of business principles and practices.
- Emergency Management Director: Emergency management directors are responsible for overseeing emergency operations and planning for disasters or other threats. Business degree holders with an emphasis in emergency management can provide valuable expertise in this field.
- Information Systems Manager: Business degree holders with an emphasis on information systems can use their skills to oversee computer networks, applications, and databases. They are responsible for managing data security, software development, and other IT-related tasks.
- Human Resources Manager: HR managers are responsible for overseeing the recruitment, selection, and training of personnel in organizations. They must also stay up to date with changing regulations regarding hiring and labor laws. Business degree holders with an emphasis on human resources can easily transition into this role.
- Risk Manager: Risk managers use their business acumen to help companies identify and mitigate risks associated with investments, legal matters, or other activities. They must be able to accurately assess potential risks and develop strategies to minimize their impact.
- Business Consultant: Business consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations about operational strategies and methods for increasing profitability. With their expertise in business principles, business degree holders can be invaluable in helping organizations develop effective solutions to their problems.
- Sales Manager: Sales managers are responsible for leading a team of salespeople to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness in sales campaigns. They must be able to analyze sales data and devise strategies that increase market share and revenues. A business degree holder is the perfect candidate for this position as they have the necessary expertise in marketing and sales principles.
International Management Analyst
A career as an international management analyst is both challenging and rewarding. The role of a management analyst is to provide insight into how organizations can best operate, in order to maximize efficiency and cost savings. In the field of international management, analysts specialize in assessing the operations of global organizations.
To become a successful international management analyst, one must possess excellent research and analytical skills, as well as knowledge of international business practices. An in-depth understanding of a variety of cultures is also essential. The ability to work well with diverse groups of people is also key.
The primary responsibility of an international management analyst is to assess an organization's current operations and develop plans to improve them. This may involve evaluating existing processes, implementing new systems, or developing strategies for growth and expansion. The analyst must take into consideration the organization's culture, budget, and global environment to create an effective plan.
Ultimately, the success of an international management analyst depends on their ability to analyze data, develop effective strategies, and communicate ideas effectively. It requires a unique combination of hard skills and soft skills in order to excel in this field.
Renewable Energy Technology Managers
To become a renewable energy technology manager, you'll need to have a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy sources and technologies, such as solar, wind and geothermal. You'll also need to possess strong problem-solving and project management skills, as well as the ability to coordinate multiple teams of professionals. To ensure your success in this position, it's important to have at least a bachelor's degree in business with a concentration in renewable energy technology.
As a renewable energy technology manager, you'll work closely with other professionals in various fields, including engineering, science, business, finance and law. You'll also need to have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to effectively communicate complex technical information to non-technical people. Your responsibilities will also include staying up-to-date on advances in renewable energy technology and identifying new opportunities for expanding the use of renewable energy sources.
With the global move towards green energy solutions, this position is becoming increasingly popular and highly sought-after. With the right qualifications and knowledge, you could be well-positioned to take advantage of this growing field.
Information Systems Manager
To become an Information Systems Manager, you must have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Information Systems. Many employers prefer candidates with a Master's degree or specialized certifications. You should also have an in-depth knowledge of programming languages, computer systems architecture, operating systems, databases, and security protocols.
As an Information Systems Manager, you will be responsible for monitoring system performance, diagnosing and solving technical problems, installing new software and hardware, configuring networks and databases, managing access permissions and user accounts, developing system training materials, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. You will need to be able to troubleshoot problems quickly and effectively while still meeting deadlines. Additionally, you may need to stay up to date on new technologies and recommend ways to improve system performance.
Financial Examiner
A Financial Examiner's job duties include examining the accuracy of financial records, reviewing loan agreements, analyzing balance sheets, investigating companies for fraud, assessing financial risks, and identifying potential sources of revenue. They must also develop strategies to improve operations and ensure compliance with all laws and regulations.
The position of Financial Examiner is one of the most important roles in the finance industry as it helps protect against fraud and ensures compliance with laws and regulations. It is an excellent career choice for individuals who are interested in finance and are committed to upholding the highest standards of financial responsibility.
Healthcare Business Analyst
A Healthcare Business Analyst is a specialized business professional who works to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare organizations. They analyze data to develop strategies, create business plans, and measure performance in order to help healthcare organizations reduce costs and increase profitability.
As a Healthcare Business Analyst, you will need a good understanding of the healthcare industry and its various elements. You will need to be well-versed in finance, economics, information systems, and health policy. Your knowledge will enable you to provide solutions to complex healthcare issues, identify opportunities for cost savings, and suggest ways to increase profits.
In order to be successful as a Healthcare Business Analyst, you must be highly organized and have excellent problem-solving skills. You should also have strong analytical and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently. A business degree in healthcare administration or management is helpful for this role. With the right training and education, you can become an expert in analyzing healthcare data and developing strategies that benefit healthcare organizations.
Emergency Management Director
The duties of an emergency management director may include evaluating risks, assessing the resources needed to respond to an emergency, developing plans for community outreach and creating protocols for responding to natural disasters. They may also need to coordinate public health interventions, liaise with the media, and ensure that their organization is compliant with government regulations related to safety and security.
Successful emergency management directors must have excellent communication and organizational skills, be able to work under pressure, and possess strong problem-solving abilities. A bachelor's degree in business administration, public policy or a related field is usually required for this position, and many employers prefer candidates with some experience in emergency management. Additionally, most states require certification for emergency management directors.
Financial Examiner
This is an exciting field for those looking for a challenging and rewarding career in finance. Financial Examiners play a key role in helping organizations adhere to financial regulations and maintain a healthy financial environment. If you are looking for a career that offers high levels of responsibility and the opportunity to use your specialized business degree, then a career as a Financial Examiner may be for you.
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The winners of the 2017 Long Island Press High School Journalism Awards competition will be announced during its tenth annual gala May 30 at Hofstra University's John Cranford Adams Playhouse in Hempstead.
Hundreds of student journalists from more than two dozen local high schools submitted more than 2,000 submissions in over 100 categories. Press staffers are reviewing the outstanding journalistic work from students across Nassau and Suffolk counties in print, online and video—with honors to be awarded for writing, design, illustration, art and photography.
"The top-notch stories that Long Island high school students submit impresses us more each year," said Timothy Bolger, editor in chief of the Press. "It's a tall task to narrow down winners among so many impressive submissions. These students really do represent the best and brightest of local high school journalism."
The Press launched the program to inspire and support students in their efforts to secure internships, scholarships and, eventually, jobs in journalism or publishing. A Press representative has been visiting high schools across the Island throughout the academic year to teach students about publishing and help them hone their skills.
Besides awards in individual categories such as best news story or column, the biggest awards of the night are for Newspaper of the Year, Student Journalist of the Year, Story of the Year and Advisor of the Year.
Participating schools, students, their teachers and families are invited to attend the annual awards gala. For more information, visit longislandpress.com/highschool. For inquiries and sponsorship opportunities, email Press co-publisher Joshua Schneps at [email protected]


text: Hi, I'm trying to get cman to start up on one of the nodes in a 3 node cluster. 2 nodes are running fine, but for the last one ccsd reports: ccsd[24647]: Unable to bind to socket. Cluster.conf look like this: .... <clusternode name="brik3-gfs" votes="1" nodeid="7"> <fence> <method name="single"> <device name="brik3-rac"/> </method> </fence> </clusternode> </clusternodes> <fencedevices> ... <fencedevice name="brik3-rac" agent="fence_ilo" hostname="10.9.255.66" login="root" passwd="xxxxx"/> </fencedevices> The hostname of this system is brik3, but I want ccsd to use bond1 which has address 172.16.1.60. /etc/hosts contains 172.16.1.60 brik3-gfs The directory /var/run/cluster exists with permissions 755 so root should be able to create a socket. Iptables is not running. I cannot easily change the hostname which used bond0 I guess I've made a small mistake, please could someone put me right? Thanks Shaun Op dit e-mailbericht is een disclaimer van toepassing, welke te vinden is op http://www.espritxb.nl/disclaimer


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Thank you for visiting www.milkitbaby.shop Please find below the terms and conditions that govern the use of this site. If you have any further questions please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com.
When you place an order on the milkitbaby.shop website you will receive confirmation of your order and of dispatch via email. Please make sure that the email address you provide is correct and the mail account provided by you is working properly.
Whilst we make every effort to ensure that product and price details are correctly displayed on the milkitbaby.shop website we cannot be held responsible for their accuracy. It is your responsibility to ensure that prior to placing an order you have checked the details of the products you order as they may have changed since you last viewed them on our website.
All products displayed on the milkitbaby.shop website are subject to availability.
Prices and stock are not contractually confirmed until you receive the confirmation of dispatch sent to the email account provided by you. Any contracts or agreements formed between yourself and Milk It Baby Ltd through this website shall be governed and construed according to Hong Kong law and any disputes or proceedings shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Hong Kong courts.
If the items you have ordered are unsuitable or damaged you must inform us within 14 days of receipt. Email our customer service on firstname.lastname@example.com detailing your Order ID and the item you wish to return or exchange. We will then be happy to make a refund/exchange providing the items are returned complete, in perfect condition and in their original packaging within 14 days of receiving your email. Items returned outside these guidelines will only be subject to the management of Milk It Baby Limited. Unless the item is faulty, a refund will not be possible if the item/items arrive damaged. In these cases the items will be returned to you.
For all returns, except where the item is faulty, you will be required to arrange and pay for all delivery costs including the return of the items to us. In the case where free delivery was offered on the original order, an additional $50 delivery fee may be payable to Milk It Baby Limited and which may be deducted from the refund amount. If returning items to us by post, you are strongly recommended to obtain proof of posting. We cannot accept responsibility for parcels lost in transit. Upon receipt of items returned as faulty, we will arrange for an exchange. Milk It Baby Limited's decision is final.
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For products shipped internationally, please note that any manufacturer warranty may not be valid; manufacturer service options may not be available; product manuals, instructions and safety warnings may not be in destination country languages; the products (and accompanying materials) may not be designed in accordance with destination country standards, specifications, and labeling requirements; and the products may not conform to destination country voltage and other electrical standards (requiring use of an adapter or converter if appropriate). You are responsible for assuring that the product can be lawfully imported to the destination country
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It's 8:30 p.m. and I have a show on the DVR that I really want to watch. A little girl gets up for the fifth time to tell me just one more thing. Another one wants to tell me a riddle and then the crying from the nursery comes. I feel the frustration coming and selfishness rears its ugly head.
This is why I am desperate to spend time in His presence each day. At moments like this His words come to mind. Walk in love…Paul says in Ephesians. I want to play dumb and ask what that even means, but I know. His Word is so clear.
And walk in love, as the Messiah also loved us and gave Himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God. – Ephesians 5:2 HCSB
This walk of love is selfless and sacrificial and sweet. We are to walk as He walked. We are to give our all – completely empty ourselves for the good of others and the glory of God. We don't simply serve until we are tired or tired of it. When there is a need, even at the end of a long and weary day, we are to walk in love a little more. Because that is what the Messiah did and our deepest longing should be to resemble Him.
Yes, that little girl can tell me one more thing. I would love to hear a late night riddle. And I will pick that baby up and rock her one more time.
I will walk in love and savor each step.


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Lynx 1-Line Alphanumeric Pricing Gun
Original price £139.15
Current price £82.25
ex VAT
The Lynx 1 Line Alphanumeric Pricing Gun comes with ten characters on one band. Each band contains every letter and number which makes this gun not only unique but extremely versatile.
The Lynx pricing gun allows pricing up to £999999.99 or £999999999 without the decimal point. A mixture of numbers and letters or just a word can be displayed on the label too. An example of what a label could show would be: BATCH 1234, BB 241106 or simply £99.99.
This gun uses our popular CT4 pricing gun label and Lynx C price gun ink roller.
Price Includes - FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY !


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1 After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, a holding the four winds of the earth, b that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. 2 Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, 3 saying, c "Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God d on their foreheads." 4 e And I heard the number of those who were sealed. f One hundred and forty-four thousand g of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed:
of the tribe of Judah
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Reuben
twelve thousand were 1 sealed;
of the tribe of Gad
twelve thousand were sealed; 6 of the tribe of Asher
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Naphtali
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Manasseh
twelve thousand were sealed; 7 of the tribe of Simeon
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Levi
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Issachar
twelve thousand were sealed; 8 of the tribe of Zebulun
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Joseph
twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Benjamin
twelve thousand were sealed.
After these things I looked, and behold, h a great multitude which no one could number, i of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, j clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands,
and crying out with a loud voice, saying, k "Salvation belongs to our God l who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!"
m All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and n worshiped God,
o saying:
"Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom,
Thanksgiving and honor and power and might,
Be to our God forever and ever.
13 Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, "Who are these arrayed in p white robes, and where did they come from?" 14 And I said to him, 2 "Sir, you know." So he said to me, q "These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and r washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
15 "Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will s dwell among them. 16 t "They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; u the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat; 17 "for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne v will shepherd them and lead them to 3 living fountains of waters. w And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."