Happiness is increased especially for women, for the poor, and for the poorly educated.  Women in developing countries are more socially constrained than men and it is thought that this is the reason they benefit more from the use of a cell phone. Technology is also a status symbol and can be a sign of prosperity.

There is a view that that technology has a negative impact on people because it blurs professional and personal time.  The difference is whether the cell phone is a tool or whether it becomes the Master.

We all need a little magic in our lives. I was one of those children who would get selected by the on-stage magician looking for volunteers to help out – maybe I looked as though I would sweetly follow instructions, or perhaps I had a gullible face. No matter.  I loved it.  And I have been a sucker for magic ever since. I still marvel at how a plane can stay up in the sky (usually), the colours in a rainbow, and reflections on the water… the way a bud is suddenly a flower, a thing of beauty built from the ingredients of earth, water and sunshine

The real trick is to recognise magic when we see it and take note enough to hold on to it. And to see we can make it happen for ourselves and others. Especially I marvel at how a person living a limited life can blossom when the nutrients are added, nutrients of kind words, having someone believe in you, a champion. Even better when the kind words and belief is from the person themselves, and yet it often takes another person to kick-start the process.  How fabulous it is when we see someone suddenly bloom, reach towards their potential.

My most favourite days are when I can say “Today I changed a life” knowing I have initiated the transformation process.  It’s like magic.