Exercise is good for our bodies and for our souls

Readers write about exercise, Salukis, bullying and Donald Trump

A reader says that physical exercise can help us create a better world. Jeffrey E Biteng / The National

Thank you for the article How and where to work out for free in the UAE (February 17).

It is in keeping with this Friday's sermon, With exercise comes strength in service of the Almighty (February 17).

This is very true and practical advice. Without good health and a sound mind we can’t contribute meaningfully to building a better society and improving mankind.

My congratulations to the imams who are preaching this message in their sermons. They are great words to live by. No wonder the UAE is one of the most peaceful, progressive and tolerant societies in which to live.

Randall Mohammed, Dubai

Salukis deserve kind treatment

I found Nick Webster's story, Portrait of a Nation: Emirati hopes to secure future of Arabia's desert dog (February 18), very interesting.

It is essential, however, that people be taught how to respect and care for their dogs properly.

I know of two salukis in the Western Region who were uncared for, kicked by children and had stones thrown at them.

Unfortunately, these are not the only cases of animal neglect and abuse I have heard about. Education and respect are musts.

Meanwhile, it cannot be denied that the saluki is a special breed – and they are said to be faster than greyhounds.

T Cook, Abu Dhabi

It is a beautiful idea to secure the future of these fabulous dogs. I hope we can teach people to treat them with kindness, love, compassion and dignity.

K Moar, Dubai

Bullying exists in schoolyards, too

I appreciate you bringing light to the topic of bullying in your editorial, How bullying evolved online (January 30).

It says that bullying “has moved away from the schoolyard and into the social media environment”. While I agree that bullying has entered a new age via social media, I disagree that it has completely left the schoolyard.

When the topic of bullying arises, it’s important that we don’t ignore the fact that schoolyard bullying still occurs frequently.

I am aware of this issue because I’ve been a victim – and I often hear similar accounts from school pupils. Bullying has evolved into a vicious cycle that is on school grounds by day and through the computer screen by night.

When coming up with solutions to this issue let’s remember to look at all forms rather than just the newest one.

Jenni Khouri, US

Say it, don’t just send a message

As your story, Try ringing up a friend instead of texting – it's good to talk (February 15) points out, social skills and etiquette are lacking in today's high-tech world.

It’s the same in the business world. We should stop sending emails and pick up the phone. Emotions can be best expressed face to face or through the voice in a telephone conversation.

Mathew Litty, Dubai

Where to charge electric vehicles?

When considering electric cars, we must think about where to charge the batteries and how much it will cost (Road test: Tesla Model X, February 16).

Sweden has a good network of free charging stations at shopping malls and other places where people stop.

Jesep Mahest, US

Trump may yet surprise us all

I refer to Rob Crilly's article The end of the two-state solution – killed off by Trump and Netanyahu (February 16).

Donald Trump may be cleverer at this than he has been given credit for. A significant moment came when Mr Trump suddenly turned to Mr Netanyahu and, looking directly at him, said: “The solution is going to require sacrifices.”

Mr Trump then pointed his finger directly at Mr Netanyahu and said: “You know that, right?’’

Mr Netanyahu, whose lack of enthusiasm for compromise is legendary, grimaced and lamely volunteered the muted response: “Both sides.”

It may well turn out to be that ending the appropriation of Palestinian land and building settlements is part of the compromise required by Mr Trump.

Name withheld by request