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Dear Stan, LAST Monday my son, who is in Year 1 at St Christopher's School, performed in this year's production - Billy No Buzz. It is a short tale about a poor little bee who had no buzz.

Because she was different, the bee had no friends. She turned to other insects to see if they would befriend her. The fireflies, ants, butterflies, grasshoppers and the spiders all turned her away because she didn't fit in.

Later on in the production, the Bees told of her other qualities and the story turned around. Of course, they would be her friends because at the end of the day, it was being different that made Billy No Buzz so special.

The children, who it must be noted, were only five or six-years-old, performed brilliantly. They sang with clarity, danced with aplomb and with much humour.

The story held a poignant message because St Christopher's School embraces the culture of being different, as its pupils are comprised of many nationalities.

It would not have been possible without the adults helping behind the scenes - the teachers and the parents

The biggest thank you goes to the children for such a stunning performance. Poor Billy may not have a buzz but there was an audible buzz in the audience of several hundred proud parents.

Thank you and well done Year 1, St Christopher's School!

A proud mummy See Social Scene, National Parade Dear Stan,

A FEW days back I was reading GulfWeekly and came across Shilpa's Shopping List. It helped me a lot - thanks for such a wonderful piece of information; it is especially useful for people like me who are very new to Bahrain.

It has been only two weeks since I arrived and I am still exploring the island. Is there a club where I can meet other Indian guys and gals?

Arnav Bassi by e-mail.

Editor's note: There is a thriving Indian expat community in Bahrain. The Indian Club in Hoora can be contacted by calling 17253157.

Dear Stan,

THE Kingdom of Bahrain has been providing employment opportunities to people from various countries and nationalities for many years.

Those who have worked here have prospered over the years. There are some who have been employed here for the past 40 to 50 years. Others leave within one or two years.

What are the special qualities that people need to be able to work in Bahrain for many years?

This question, even though complex, has surprisingly simple answers. I have met many expatriates and, also as a result of my five years in Bahrain, have come up with some useful tips.

Be Different: One must have the courage to call a spade a spade. This quality is appreciated by the top management, as very few show this courage.

Be Calm & Cool: There are several occasions when we loose our temper. Sometimes we are correct in getting angry in the situation, but the people who can control their temper are the ones who are still working.

Commitment: Show total commitment on the job assigned to you whether it is big or small. You are sometimes measured by your commitment and not always by the end results.

Friend Circle: Develop a big circle of friends, contacts from all walks of life. This helps to increase your knowledge, gives you someone to seek guidance and help from when you need it most.

Honesty: A very unique and simple virtue. This will help you to make a good impression on your bosses, customers, superiors and subordinates. Imbibe honesty and see how the environment around you changes.

Punctuality: Be punctual to work. This will help you to learn more and you will get more chances to prove yourselves. Try to arrive ten minutes early, and leave ten minutes after the office hours.

Performance: Everyone gets a chance to perform at their job. The trick lies in outperforming rather than in performing. A little focus and a positive approach will help you.

You can add more points to the list but these few have helped many with their careers.

These qualities can help you to personally progress, help your company to prosper and will ensure you become a part of tomorrow's Bahrain.

Ajit B Khadilkar Manager, Lebanon Trade Centre, Isa Town