Archive for March, 2008

Unity-in-Diversity: A Holistic Paradigm for Interreligious Dialogue

Friday, March 14th, 2008

By Sandi Fults The following is an argument for a means of compassionate communication among religions, applying a holistic or unifying regard for the similarities and differences that are essential characteristics for faith life in the global age. Diversity is an opportunity, a celebration. Diversity is not a threat to the worlds religions. Rather, it is a reflection of the diverse union of the Godhead. Avoidance of the central fact that there are diverse faith traditions, which have value in the theological sense, is a primary cause for conflict at every level of human interaction. In the field of interreligious dialogue, primary theories and principles guide the issue. Doctrine is inevitable and necessary for a religion. Creeds and dogma to which they point give definition to religion, simultaneously limiting and isolating adherents from those of other religions. Doctrine belongs to a religions diversity aspect (which is not solely defined by doctrine. Diversity includes other characteristics such as culture, history, etc.). Unity is a non-temporal, non-spatial (eternal, infinite) aspect that is transcendent and immanent to the diverse elements of faith that distinguish one religion from another. Basic assumptions guide debate about dialogue among the worlds religions. These assumptions include a conviction that interreligious dialogue has a vital role in the quest for world peace. For another, doctrinal differences among religions can be reconciled or accommodated without compromising doctrines essential utility to religions. Dogmatism leads to intolerance. More than one faith model can have ultimate value. Theoretical frameworks that guide this position: Cultural, historical and personal conditions are necessary considerations, which are informed and structured by an individuals or a religions faith experience and vice verse. The One Reality, whether known as God, Trinity, Allah, Brahman, Nibbana, Yahweh, etc., reveals itself or is revealed within the context of such considerations. However, that Reality is not limited to the conditioned ways in which the faithful refer to it. Unreasonable attachment to the letter (dogma) rather than the spirit (faith) of doctrine results in exclusivism, self-proclaimed superiority and isolation. These results are antithetical to a religions proclaimed objectives to realize alignment with the One and perpetuate dangerous illusion. Caution: A sanitized one world religion, whether it be Islam, Christianity, or some amorphous other religion, contradicts the overwhelming and diverse evidence to the contrary that the world and its peoples are created in and best served by an atmosphere of diversity. Relevant research investigates the social implications of interreligious dialogue, the possibilities and effectiveness of moving beyond doctrine, and theological support for the Trinity as a unity-in-diversity paradigm for the worlds great spiritual traditions, especially institutional religions. Additional research investigates Christian and extra-Christian mystical traditions and the relevance of right and left-brain hemisphere functions. Theological issues are primary factors that guide debate and investigation into the possibilities for interreligious dialogue. If a religion defines itself as the exclusive conduit to God, salvation, enlightenment or whatever, then that definition is theologically founded. The concern in certain religions is that a given tradition will lose its central defining cause for existence. For example, Christianity is grounded in Christs Gospel imperative to spread the Good News. Is it possible for Christianity to broaden its doctrinal perspective to include a unity-in-diversity model in its consideration of non-Christian religions without sacrificing central articles of Christian faith? Some Christian theologians argue that the most central Christian dogma, the Trinity, is paradigm for unity-in-diversity model of religions. Conversely, Trinitarian theology and Christology often are raised as central theological areas that prevent inclusion of the worlds religions as receptacles of similar value and truth. An urgent question: Can Christianity accept as either similarly valid a religion that neither requires nor demands that its adherents embrace salvation, let alone salvation solely through Christs redemptive event? How is the Trinity present to the world and its religions? Must the religions accept the Trinity, as does Christianity, as Father, Son and Holy Spirit or do non-Christian models for salvation, enlightenment or liberation have ultimate equal value to the Christian model? At the heart of this debate or controversy, depending on where one stands, are problems that misguide efforts to penetrate depth of the issue. Any doctrine necessarily casts distinctions. In the collective religious comprehension of some people of faith, their way is true and only. An us vs. them mentality permeates the core of institutional religion. This creates resistance that is difficult, if not impossible to relieve at the discursive level. Additionally, how do faithful adherents of a religion learn to discern the value of church as institution (rational, discursive) and as faith in the Divine as immanent and transcendent (intuitive, experiential)? Perhaps the most difficult problem is that an attempt to convey a new vision of life is limited by language and other restrictive factors, some conscious, some unconscious. Answers to this predicament wait on human exploration in the non-rational realms of Reality, mystical exploration. In truth, all verbal attempts to comprehend one another are servants, not masters of non-verbal experience. The most apparent issue for interreligious dialogue is that certain religions are convinced that their ways are the one true way to God and that other religions are incomplete in comparison. Any attempts at analysis or reasonable defense fail, for, invariably, there is an equal and opposite defense. The most effective theological inquiry focuses on a unity-in-diversity model, which maintains that all life is an interrelated web. Each and every element has the potential to provide strength and substance to the whole web. This is an appropriate and effective approach to interreligious dialogue. The image opens the mind to possibilities that break down barriers to dialogue and to peace. Mystical investigation and experience allows rational and intuitive brain functions to find balance. The process is summarized by S. Radhakrishnan: “In every man there is a ray of the eternal light emanating from the Central Sun. When we love man, we are conscious of our unity with him in the central spirit and we give effect to this consciousness in our lives.” (1) Religions ought to recognize that their creedal and doctrinal forms represent constructs that are primarily harvested from rational consciousness. These forms constitute the primary materials that theologians use in their arguments for and against the ways and means of interreligious dialogue. Additionally, theological inquiry of rational constructs is itself a rational, albeit necessary, endeavor. Therefore, intuitive methods and comprehension are largely subjugated by rational domination. Some approaches that help achieve balance between human rational and intuitive knowing include immersion in sacred texts of other religions and concerted efforts to practice ones own religions contemplative path. Sacred texts provide mythological and poetic languages that reside in intuitive domains. Contemplative practice is direct experience beyond the discursive mind. Balance between the brains rational and intuitive functions is a crucial factor for the interreligious dialogue process. Theological inquiry and creative investigation into ones own and the other create opportunities to realize what already is true: The worlds religions are integral elements of an existent unity-in-diversity reality. However, before individuals and religions can awaken to what is, they must strive to access the vast region of faith that resides within the mindthat mysterious, yet central common denominator of all people. As the late Dom Bede Griffiths writes, “In each religion the divine Reality is manifested under different signs and symbols and we need to be able to discern this hidden Truth in each religious tradition. Each has something to contribute to human understanding and to human fulfillment.” (2) 1. Radhakrishnan, S., Indian Religions (New Delhi, India: Orient Paperbacks, 1979) 61-62. 2. Griffiths, Bede, The Marriage of East and West (Springfield, Illinois: Templegate Publishers, 1982) 33-34. Sandi Fults has a Master’s degree in Systematic Theology from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. She also attended the graduate Middle Eastern Studies program at the University of Texas at Austin. Her area of specialization is Interreligious Dialogue and the world’s religions, with emphasis on the South Asian Hindu and Buddhist religious traditions. She is convinced that interreligious dialogue is a way to peace. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandi_Fults http://EzineArticles.com/?Unity-in-Diversity:-A-Holistic-Paradigm-for-Interreligious-Dialogue&id=145913 zolpidem research buy ambien online no rx overnight shipping bad stuff about ativan prescription drug lorazepam

Controlling and Avoiding the Damages of Humidity

Monday, March 10th, 2008

By Shawn Hart If you are one of the thousands of people who live in an area with high humidity, you understand the problems that must be faced when you go outside. When its hot, the humidity makes it so you can never cool off, and when its cold, the humidity only accentuates the bitterness of the cold weather. The humidity can make it very uncomfortable to be outside, but there are many more problems to be dealt with when your home has a high level of relative humidity (RH). High humidity in the home encourages the growth of mold, house-mites, and other allergens. Humidity can damage valuable keepsakes and furniture, as well as the structure of your home. In extreme cases high RH can affect your health as it can aggravate asthma, arthritis, and rheumatism. With all the problems humidity can create, it is important to know how to recognize the signs of high humidity, clean and repair any damaged areas, and prevent any further damage by controlling the humidity levels in your home. Humidity is created from many sources inside and outside your home. Obviously, living in a humid area of the country will have a huge effect on the level of RH in your home, but other every day activities can also affect RH. Some of these activities, including taking a bath or shower, boiling water on the stove, using the dryer or dishwasher, and even breathing can raise level of RH throughout the house. In many cases, the damages humidity causes can go unnoticed for a long time until it is too late. You can recognize and prevent any potential damage from humidity by looking for the following signs. Condensation, mildew, mold, musty smells are pretty obvious signs. You must also look for distorted window frames, bubbling or pealing wallpaper, structural defects, damaged furniture, rusty pipes, and ruined clothing as signs of high RH. Also, pay attention to your and your familys health as it can be a sign of high levels of humidity. If your home is already showing signs of mold growth or damage from high humidity levels, you will need to assess whether the cleaning and repair job is something you can handle yourself or if you should hire a professional cleaner to do the job. As a general rule, if the affected area is less than 10 square feet, you would be able to handle the clean up yourself. In more extreme cases, it is best to consult a professional. When doing it yourself, its important to start at the source of the problem. Repair any leaking plumbing and dry everything thoroughly. Also scrub mold off of all surfaces with a detergent and water. Be sure to wear rubber gloves, an N-95 respirator, and goggles without ventilation holes to avoid contact with mold spores that can irritate your skin, lungs, and eyes. Certain porous materials such as carpet or ceiling tiles might have to be replaced altogether if affected by mold. Also, it is usually best to hire a professional if you suspect mold is growing behind wallpaper, because you could possibly spread mold spores by trying to clean it yourself. Once you have cleaned and fixed any damage caused by humidity, or if you have noticed the warning signs of high humidity, it is time to take preventative action against humidity in the future. The first thing you will want to consider getting is a humidistat which will monitor the amount of relative humidity in your home. A level of humidity between 30% to 50% humidity is optimum for most homes. Your best defense against high humidity levels is to purchase a quality dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will be able to regulate the amount of humidity in your home as well as filter out dust and other pollutants from the air. A dehumidifier can also save money on heating bills because your home can stay warmer with the lower levels of humidity. Dehumidifiers are relatively inexpensive and use very little electricity to run. It is also important to maintain all plumbing to make sure there are no leaks which will foster the growth of mold. When taking a bath or shower, turn on a ventilation fan or open a window to allow excess humidity to leave the room. Keeping your home free of high levels of humidity will save you a lot of problems in the future and will allow you to better preserve your furniture, clothes, and valuable keepsakes. Just make sure you look for the warning signs of high humidity, clean and repair any problem areas, and take measures to prevent further problems with high RH. Doing these things will make your home a cleaner, more comfortable place for your family and friends. Shawn Hart is an internet marketer for Air Conditioner Home. For more information about dehumidifiers and humidistats, visit http://www.air-conditioner-home.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shawn_Hart http://EzineArticles.com/?Controlling-and-Avoiding-the-Damages-of-Humidity&id=218189 sale zolpidem ambien bad reactions long term ambien ambien and tripping

Cleansing Diet Definition

Sunday, March 9th, 2008

By Marc Menninger Cleansing is a dietary practice that spans back through the centuries. It is a natural way to clear the body of toxins and built up waste products that was used in ancient medicine. Because of its effectiveness, cleansing is enjoying a reemergence of popularity today. The practice of cleansing, which is also known as detoxification (or detox) is used for a number of purposes. Cleansing may be used to simply give the body a healthy boost or as a precursor to another holistic approach. The most popular use of cleansing in modern society is for dietary cleansing. Cleansing diets are simple and effective. They work quickly to produce significant weight loss results. Basics Of Cleansing Diets There are many, many different kinds of cleansing diets with different recipes and variations of foods and drinks. Some are strictly liquid diet protocols and are often considered fasting diets while others combine beneficial drink recipes and natural juices with healthy foods such as protein shakes, organic fruits and vegetables. A very basic description of a cleansing diet would be this: Cleansing starts with a diet plan (in many cases mostly or all liquid) that is followed for two to ten days (sometimes longer but care must be taken). This plan may include good, healthy, foods with the liquid regimen.Herbs, oils, and/or supplements may be taken to enhance the detoxification and cleansing process.Cleansing is usually undertaken as a series of short cleansing periods (under two weeks) two to three times per year as long term cleanses could be unhealthy.Many programs combine a healthy, low-toxin diet as a lifestyle to maintain clean living between cleanses.Foods and drinks used in the cleansing diet are chosen for their purity; foods that contain chemicals and toxins, and those which turn to stored chemicals and toxins in the body, are eliminated.Foods are also chosen for their restorative properties and for their abilities to draw out and eliminate toxins in the major organs of the body, fats cells, and tissues.How Cleansing Diets Work From its earliest days, the human body constantly accumulates toxins. These toxins come from: The foods and drinks we consumeThe environment (air pollution, chlorinated water, cleaning agents, chemical exposure, smoke…)Health and beauty products applied topically to the skin and absorbed by the skinMedicationsThe body is naturally designed to process out toxins and waste bi-products through the liver, kidney, colon, sweat, etc., but it is unable to process all of the toxins we come in contact with. Residual toxins build up in the body’s organs and fat storage cells. Cleansing diets are designed to “kick out” the left over, built-up toxic residue. This prepares the cleanser for better living and easier cleanses. Maintenance cleanses are periodically necessary, and in most cases it takes more than one good cleanse to clean out a damaged system; this is build-up that took years to accumulate–you should not expect it to be quickly removed. Changes to lifestyle further enhance the effectiveness of cleansing diets. There are a number of benefits to using cleansing diets. While many people look towards cleansing diets strictly for simplified (no need to count calories or read confusing labels, etc.) and fast-acting weight loss purposes, the many advantages of good bodily cleansing are also appreciated. Among these advantages are an improved energy level and better overall health; even the skin is better, often clearing away skin disorders. Bowels become regulated. Concentration and mental acuity improve. The most obvious advantage, however, is that cure that people come to cleansing diets seeking–fast, effective, significant weight loss, the direct result of clearing the body’s taxed systems of pounds of waste products and toxin overload. _____________________________________________________ Marc R. Menninger is a Cleansing Coach. He helps people lose weight and get healthy through proper nutritional cleansing. To subscribe to his Free Cleansing Diet ecourse, click here: http://www.FreeCleansingDiet.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Menninger http://EzineArticles.com/?Cleansing-Diet-Definition&id=572604 mylan zolpidem tartrate zolpidem on line no prescription ambien health pharmacy drugs medications zolpidem

Students May Find Bank Loans Less Stressful than Credit Cards

Friday, March 7th, 2008

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_Hanna]Michael Hanna APACS, the UK Payment Association, has just launched a borrowing advice guide for students, called “Cards and Students”. This answers a much needed gap in the market - every year, more students and recent graduates complain about the crushing load of student debt that sits atop their shoulders, yet there is still no distinct body or advice group established for the sole purpose of addressing this problem. The new APACS guide goes some way to addressing this gap, though clearly much more is still needed. The new guide offers students short and handy advice on responsible borrowing, and though it targets credit card usage in particular, its wise and responsible suggestions can just as easily be applied to any type of student borrowing, including both student loans and bank loans. Looking at the long-term implications of borrowing rather than the short term is a key aspect to keeping debts to a minimum, especially as banks appear to be cutting back on credit card incentive offers this year according to Richard Brown, chief executive of credit card comparison website Moneynet.co.uk. One handy graphic used highlights both the benefits and risks of borrowing, and the guide also stresses the importance of choosing a particular financial product to suit your specific needs. For instance, while a credit card may seem like a convenient, short-term way to borrow money, the interest free grace period that often makes credit cards so enticing is always limited to a particular number of months; therefore, if you’re thinking of borrowing money for more than a few months, it may be a better idea to take out a [http://www.barclays.co.uk/loans-index/ ]personal loan, such as Barclay’s Professional Studies Loan which doesn’t ask borrowers to start making repayments for up to nine months after you completing education. The guide offers a handy Jargon Buster, explaining important terms like “APR” and “Monthly Interest Rates”. It also offers advice on how to avoid credit card fraud, as well as how to handle the situation if you have been a target. More generally and importantly, it offers students a list of agencies which provide help dealing with debt. These include Choosing and Using, the Citizens Advice Bureau, National Debtline, Consumer Credit Counselling Service and Community Legal Service Direct. All these organisations, among a host of others aim to provide helpful and accurate advice encouraging responsible borrowing. Sarah Quinn, APACS Director of Communications says, Nowadays, most students expect to be in debt when they graduate and whilst it might be impossible to avoid student loan debt, getting a handle on managing your finances can make the world of difference. We have an important role to play in educating all people, not just students, about responsible borrowing and the benefits and risks of using plastic cards.” By educating students on the dangers of using credit cards irresponsibly, and alerting them to other available methods of borrowing, like loans, APACS are providing a very valuable service, one that should be emulated by other organisations in time to come. Michael is a keen writer living in Edinburgh. Michael’s Website: [http://www.gransha-taxi.co.uk]Taxis Belfast Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Hanna http://EzineArticles.com/?Students-May-Find-Bank-Loans-Less-Stressful-than-Credit-Cards&id=312700 ambien comparison price ativan dependency ambien lawyers ativan withdrawal

Natural Gardens

Wednesday, March 5th, 2008

By Tim Hallinan Natural gardens utilize native species of plants which are often quite easy to grow. These plants have adapted to certain site conditions and are generally self sustaining. They’ll need little, if any, fertilizer and no more water than is provided by rain. Natural gardens consist of a rich and varied mix of plants. They introduce a diversity of trees, shrubs and perennials not found in some gardens. Natural gardens also provide a garden with a sense of place. Its often difficult to distinguish a garden in New York from one in Washington even though their landscapes and climates are completely different. Lawns are one the most common garden features in the landscape but turf grasses are rarely a natural occurrence. While some lawn is preferable, consider introducing wildflowers into a portion of your existing lawn. Wildflower meadows are noted for their stability, low maintenance and wide diversity of plants resulting in vibrant colors, textures and an increased awareness of seasonal change. The meadow approach to the landscape requires a clear understanding of a site’s natural conditions, more so than say a formal perennial garden bed. Wildflower meadows are a constantly changing landscape with some species surviving year after year while others may disappear and be replaced with something new. Along with these aesthetic benefits there are ecological benefits as well, including the reduced need for mowing, the creation of a habitat for native species of animals and the fact that wildflower meadows are very effective at trapping airborne pollutants. In woodland settings, gardens which emphasize the natural conditions of the forest are easy to maintain and provide the landscape with a variety of plants. In the spring, perennials and bulbs bloom profusely in the dappled shade beneath deciduous trees which have yet to develop leaves. In the shadier conditions of summer, the spring floral display gives way to perennials and shrubs with rich varied foliage. In the fall, after the colorful leaves drop to the ground, a second bloom will often brighten up the garden. Many native species of trees have winter characteristics which are often overlooked. The form of some trees, such as the birch or ironwood, is quite striking. Woodland gardens also provide a shady respite from the hot afternoon sun of summer. Natural gardens are not limited to country settings, they can be established in urban environments as well. A small urban lot can be transformed in to a garden which resembles the natural environment of the surrounding countryside. Planting a tree which creates dappled shade will allow a gardener to plant many native species of woodland perennials or, in sunnier spots, summer blooming wildflowers. Small native shrubs can also be used. The soft lines and lushness of a natural garden can be a welcome contrast to the consistent geometry of the city. In suburban areas, potions of vast lawns can be transformed into meadows. If youre not ready to give up your more traditional garden complete just yet but would like to add variety to your landscape, consider incorporating native perennials or native shrub species into your existing flower and shrub borders. Gardens which mimic the existing landscape or incorporate native plants are successful because theyre easy to maintain and will thrive even in the most extreme conditions. Theyve adapted to do so. Planting a natural garden can help restore the landscape, attract a variety of bird species and provide the garden with a wonderful mix of under utilized, interesting plants. T Hallinan is a landscape designer and builder in Massachusetts. Visit his garden resource website http://www.gardenlistings.com for all kind of helpful information. For more garden guides visit http://www.gardenlistings.com/resources.htm Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Hallinan http://EzineArticles.com/?Natural-Gardens&id=192771 zolpidem with out a prescription ambien carisoprodol celebrex didrex hydrocodone ambien com ambien dose lethal

Student Safety Tips

Monday, March 3rd, 2008

By Frank G Getting an education theses days is tuff enough. Between paying tuition, bills, school supplies and hours of studying, students have to watch out for their safety as well! Students cant count on campus security as they never seem to be around when needed, they just cant be expected to watch over so many students and guarantee everyones safety. If you live on campus, be careful who you let in your dorm. Be very weary of strangers or people you just met. Many can seem very nice and sweet but yet have alternative motives. Also be very careful of who follows you into the building. If you are walking alone many will take this chance to follow you into your dorm, so be very aware of your surroundings. Lock your bedroom door even if you are only going into your hallway. Did you know about half of all burglaries happen because a door or windows are left open? If you’re in a private home or apartment make sure all the windows are locked down and the front door is always locked. It doesnt matter if youre only going to be out a few minutes out or close by. Always lock up! You never know who might be watching! Muggers, burglars and rapists are always looking for an easy target. You dont want to be one of them, always try to be in groups at night. If you cant be with friends going home, youre probably better off getting a taxi or staying over a friends home. When using ATM machines try to be in a group of friends or trusted people. If you can, any time you need to use ATMS try to get your cash early on. The early the better, less chance of getting cornered and robbed in the dark of night. So its best to use ATMS in groups and during the day if possible. Put your debit card and cash away quickly and always be aware of who’s around you and your surroundings. Needles to say never give anybody your pin number or write it down where someone can take it. Everyone is more vulnerable to crime or being abused in some sort or manner, when they’ve been drinking. If you’re planning a big night out partying, arrange beforehand a way to get home safely, with friends, or in a taxi. Be careful of whom you accept drinks from, men and women can have their drinks spiked for different reasons. Keep an eye on your drink as much as possible with strangers. I am not saying you have to be paranoid or anything like that; just use common sense and all should be well. For more safety info or self defense products visit www.safetyrus.com Frank G owner of http://www.safetyrus.com For more safety articles and self defense products visit http://www.safetyrus.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_G http://EzineArticles.com/?Student-Safety-Tips&id=61246 ambien humor uses of ativan buy generic zolpidem 24 hr delivery ambien 15mg tabs

College Packing List: What You Should Bring to School

Monday, March 3rd, 2008

By Eugena Anthony Making the decision to go to school and actually find the right school to attend has probably been overwhelming. But you have finally made a decision and are in the process of getting things together for school. If you have been thinking about what you should bring with you to college, then the following will give you some in sight on what you should include in your college packing list. The first thing that you will probably start packing is your clothing. You might want to bring all of the clothes that you own. But you should be aware that some schools require that you move all of your belongings from the dorm at the end of each semester. So you should limit the amount of clothing that you pack. You will also need to bring toiletries and personal items. Toiletries would include items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant. But you will also probably want to bring shower shoes (flip flops), a bathrobe, and a bathroom caddy. Many dorms have community bathrooms, where there is one bathroom that is centrally located on each floor. You would want the shower shoes to prevent your feet from getting in contact with the shower floor since other people may have conditions like athletes foot. The bathrobe is to keep you covered as you travel down the hall. And the bathroom caddy makes carrying personal items between your room and the bathroom easier. Since you are going to school, you will want to bring school supplies. This would include items like a backpack, paper, pens and binders. You might also want to bring a computer so that you do not have to deal with lines or a time limit at the computer lab. Each dorm will usually be furnished with at least a bed, closet, and a desk with a chair. But you may want to bring some items with you to make the room comfortable so that it feels a little more like home. These items might include a lamp, rug, and possibly some curtains. To view a more detailed list of exactly what you should pack for college, visit http://www.college-search-engines-and-more.com/College-Packing-List.html Eugena Anthony created College Search Engines and More to help prospective college students with the college search process. Visit http://www.college-search-engines-and-more.com for advice on selecting a major, financing your education, and several other criteria that can help you make an informed college choice. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eugena_Anthony http://EzineArticles.com/?College-Packing-List:-What-You-Should-Bring-to-School&id=264871 ambien talk overdose on ativan ambien keyword how much ativan constitutes an overdose

Why Choose Secured Loans?

Sunday, March 2nd, 2008

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Rachael_Gallant]Rachael Gallant You’re a savvy loan shopper. You’ve done your research and read all the advice, listened to the experts and you know what they have to say about taking out secured loans. They are the financial experts that rant on the subject of credit and personal debt on the TV and in the papers. They are interested in keeping you from making what they view as a big financial mistake. And the general advice that they give about secured loans is Don’t Do It - in upper case letters. But even they admit that there are times when secured loans make good sense. First, though, let’s take a look at why they tell you that secured loans should be a last resort. There is ONE reason - and it’s a good one: You could lose your home if you fail to make the payments. Secured loans are popular with lenders because, frankly, people are far less likely to default on them. There are some very good reasons for that: 1. People who own a home are generally - not always, but generally - more financially stable than those who don’t. 2. People will think far more carefully about missing payments and defaulting on a loan when they know that they risk losing their home. The loan payment moves up in the list of priority accounts and gets paid first. 3. If people DO default on the loan, the lending company has the option to take possession of the house and sell it to recover their money. That last reason is the single big reason that the experts will tell you that you should never take out secured loans - you are risking your home if you fail to make the payments. But, as we said, there are times when secured loans make a great deal of sense. They may be your only choice, or your best choice. Secured loans are probably your only choice if: - You require a loan of more than 25,000. It’s difficult to find anyone to lend you that ammount without some sort of guarantee against the possibility that you won’t repay it. Few lenders will make unsecured loans for more than 10,000 in fact. - You want to take more than five years to repay your loan. In most cases, lenders will only consider unsecured loans for terms of up to five years. When it comes to secured loans, though, most lenders are willing to extend terms as long as 15 or 20 years for repayment. - You intend to use the loan to extend your home or make improvements to it. If you’re planning extensive renovations to your property, it only makes sense to use the money you have invested in your home to leverage the improvements that will add value to your home. - Your credit score is too low to qualify you for an unsecured personal loan. This is probably the biggest reason that people turn to secured loans. Whether it’s because of financial problems in the past, or the fact that you have an unconventional job without regularly paid wages, you may have trouble qualifying for a persona loan. In this case, a small loan secured on your home and repaid in full and on time can actually help improve your credit score so that the next time you need a loan, you CAN qualify for an unsecured loan. We don’t mean to make light of what is honestly very good advice. [http://www.advancestart.com]Secured loans are serious, long term commitments that do involve the risk of losing something very important to you. That’s why it’s vital that you know and trust those with whom you do business. You should shop around and compare secured loans with one another so that you can be sure you’re getting the best loan at the best terms. This can be very time consuming which is why you can save time and let us compare over 200 loan plans for you at “www.advancestart.com”. Rachael Gallant has worked for the UK financial services market for a number of years specialising in [http://www.advancestart.com]secured loan applications for UK home owners. She’s a busy mum and understands how time consuming it can be to sort through the hundreds of different offers whilst trying to interpret the associated jargon. That’s why she writes clear, easy to understand guides exclusively for advancestart.com to help UK home owners find [http://www.advancestart.com]secured home loans that best suit their personal circumstances. For information on 3 easy steps to compare over 200 loan plans for home owners in minutes visit “http://www.advancestart.com” Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachael_Gallant http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Choose-Secured-Loans?&id=281431 zolpidem bayvit lorazepam infusion criteria get ambien overnight buy ativan online