My Pet

I often believe that life has a way of presenting circumstances in our lives as a method of reminding us about lessons yet to be learnt or merely fragmentary reflections of current events. And so such began for me, my pet Gnat. Admittedly; there were several matters bugging me recently, ordeals seemingly beyond my control. And there, every time I came home – to greet me was The Gnat. Persistently pesky little bugger, reluctant to die. Never once did it try to flight upon my food, as if to contentedly fulfill its’ own needs. Instead, this Gnat would seemingly sneak from its’ hidden abode, explicitly when my eyes were fixated else where in deep thought; than zoom! Zoom, whoosh, whiz repeatedly; as I tried in accordance, only to unsuccessfully squish it with my hand or paper. Until at last this became liken a game between us of - dash, clasp, miss. Okay maybe I am taking this a wee far by my next train of thought, however; I swear this ruthless pest would accompany me at work in the good olde days. In the building at my place of employment, we seldom get pestered by the ‘real insects'. It’s not like we have flyswatter decors hanging about in all confined cubicles. No! Yet there ‘it’ was, The Gnat! And so Whoosh, slap, miss! Like a fool whom never learns from mistakes; I continued to take the hurtle bait, only to constantly get the same results - missed! Blasted rascal! Ok, if this pest was not the same from my home, than please explain how one day the annoyer was in my car, when I got off work! The Gnat – there to greet me in my auto, as if waiting for a free ride home from ‘its’ weary day of play. Ok I hear you. Gnats are massively every where! I have finally lost it. I am bugging out! This Gnat has ultimately succeeded - if only to drive me batty! Well today, or maybe it has been a few days now, anyhow; I am sadden to say, I lost my Pesky pet. No, I did not kill The Gnat. I recon ‘it’ has gone to pester someone else or has died of starvation – somewhere between my home and the open road. Or at worse, has become someones’ windshield muck. Just, I’m certain The Gnat did not leave of its own accord; as there are still plenty of recent tribulations tugging at my heart strings and playing intensely on my mind. Yet, sadly gone is The Gnat. Now I can’t help but wonder if I had ever succeeded in squishing ‘it’, would I have felt relieved or remorse. Perhaps we all need such a Pest, I mean Pet in our lives at times. Something tiny, requiring minimal upkeep; just something small enough to keep the mind occupied on other things, if but for a minute - so that the raw obvious doesn’t continuously eat us alive from the inside out, like an introverted vulture. Therefore; here’s wishing Gnats in your life! May you go batty as bed bugs, if but for a fleeting moment! Zoom, whoosh, whiz!



Dragonball Z - Eating Me Away


SKILLET

"Eating Me Away"

It's eating me away
I said to God
It's rotting in my mind
It's like a cancer
Is there anything, anything at all to numb the nothingness
I need a reason to breathe
It's eating me away

Yeah, yeah....

It's eating me away
It nibbles at my brain
The question of my existence
And the matter of pain
I shake my fist, I shake my fist
At the cosmos and my insignificance
I need a reason to breathe
It's eating me away

[CHORUS:]
Save me from my rage
And my humanity
I'm more nothing than being
Is this my legacy
Feel it eating me away
Yeah, yeah.....

All that I am, all that I want, all that I lack
Come on and save me
All that I am, all that I want, all that I lack
Come on and save me

[CHORUS]

All that I am, all that I want, all that I lack
Come on and save me
All that I am, all that I want, all that I lack
Come on and save me

It's eating me away

[CHORUS]

Down The Rabbit Hole

The concept of combining quantum theory and spirituality was originally introduced in a 2004 movie entitled What the Bleep Do We Know!? has now been expanded upon in an extended version of the same film released August 1, 2006, What the Bleep - DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE QUANTUM EDITION.

¹The BLEEP – Quantum Edition explores the latest scientific discoveries that explain the mind-body connection – making them understandable for the everyday, ordinary person. In addition it puts forward revolutionary experimental evidence that we, and our world are not separate, but connected.

²Part story, part documentary, and part elaborate and inspiring visual effects and animations, this extended version features a new opening ³following the journey of divorced professional photographer Amanda (played by Academy Award winning actress, Marlee Matlin) as she comes to understand the sources of her depression and slowly changes her life. During the process Amanda ^2afinds herself in a fantastic Alice in Wonderland experience when her daily, uninspired life literally begins to unravel, revealing the uncertain world of the quantum field hidden behind what we consider to be our normal, waking reality.

The movie's documentary inserts include the world’s top 14 scientist in the field of physicists, neurologists, anesthesiologists & physicians, molecular biology, and spiritual teachers, mystics and scholars who ^3aexplore the links between quantum mechanics, neurobiology, human consciousness and day-to-day reality and talk about the consciousness, psi research, physics, biology, emotion and addictions.

There are 400 visual effects shots and animations in this Quantum Edition. One of my favorite animations is when ⁴Amanda peers through her camera at the wedding reception. She sees into the guests’ bodies and watches Cells running rampant with their molecules of emotion. But this rabbit hole soon turns inside out as the Cells find their way out onto the dance floor to cajole, coerce, and excite the partiers into their favorite brand of emotion. Animations similar to this help us ⁵examine how the brain captures and processes information, and how that influences thoughts and actions. Making the case that humans can become addicted to certain emotions - love, rage, humiliation - just like a drug, and it takes willpower to break the cycle.

The fourth new character in this version is the animated Dr. Quantum by the pioneering physicist Fred Alan Wolf. Dr. Quantum leads viewers through an exploration of quantum physics including the Double-Slit Experiment and Entanglement. My favorite is Dr. Quantum - The Flatland.

I found the most intriguing part of this movie to be the Water Crystals by Dr. Masaru Emotos. He proves that ⁶thoughts and feelings affect physical reality. By producing different focused intentions through written and spoken words and music and literally presenting it to the same water samples, the water appears to "change its expression". ⁷From Mr. Emoto's work we are provided with factual evidence, that human vibrational energy, thoughts, words, ideas and music, affect the molecular structure of water, the very same water that comprises over seventy percent of a mature human body and covers the same amount of our planet.

Also beautifully detailed in his book “The Hidden Messages in Water”:

“Imagine if water could absorb feelings and emotions or be transformed by thoughts. Imagine if we could photograph the structure of water at the moment of freezing and from the image "read" a message about the water that is relevant to our own health and well-being on the planet. Imagine if we could show the direct consequences of destructive thoughts or, alternately, the thoughts of love and appreciation. The Hidden Messages in Water introduces readers to the revolutionary work of Japanese scientist Masaru Emoto, who discovered that molecules of water are affected by thoughts, words, and feelings. Dr. Emoto shares his realizations from his years of research and explains the profound implications on the healing of water, mankind, and earth.” Beyond Words

Thank You Love

As C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D stated, “^6aHalf of the earth is water; our body is three-quarters water. Water represents the interface between the 4th dimension in which we live and the 5th dimensional sphere of our soul.”

In conclusion; ‘What the Bleep - DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE’ is more than entertaining, it is education. All that remains is the one enduring question "How Far Down The Rabbit Hole” are you willing to go?" Cause the deeper you go down the ‘Rabbit Hole’ the more you learn, the more you discover, the more you understand, the more you see that ‘we are not separate, but connected’.

“If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be. And what it wouldn't be, it would. You see?” Lewis Carroll (Alice in Wonderland)


1. Synopsis
2. Water Crystals

^Wikipedia:Double-Slit Experiment and Entanglement


Related Posts: To Curse, To Ponder, To Wonder or Not

Permission to use photo #'27. Animation characters' from the Press Room, High Resolution Stills from What The Bleep Do We Know!? granted to Binding Ink.org by Webmaster.

Phillyosophicalizing Easter

Main-stream Society has done far more irrectifiable damage to individualism than any distraught bullies have ever hoped to inflict upon society labeled Plain Janes or Computer Geeks. One need not be of Christian faith to enjoy the spirit of Easter nor does one need to be so of Christian faith as not to be able to participate in the frills of Easter. For there is such a thing called a medium – a middle ground; a point of view midway between extremes. Truly here is where individualism thrives. But how many dare to walk such a thin line? Come, stray for a moment if you will and walk with me away from the main-stream. For surely if it is true that life imitates art and art imitates life than what of this book called the Bible so many protest, perhaps merely literature, symbolism at its best. Gethsemane? Surely Surprisedbyjoy writes "all of us will experience Gethsemane in our lifetime. They are moments of great distress, fear and anguish. We may experience hatred and betrayal. We may be called to pick up our 'wounds' and we don’t want to do it. Even Christ needed companions in Gethsemane. Sleeping friends were better than being alone. We would be wise to ask for friends to be with us in our Gethsemane. Don’t be upset when ‘some’ let us down. Judas betrayed, the others slumbered, Peter denied their relationship and they all ran away in fear. We see a picture of life drama and human frailties." This is Gethsemane, merely truth; facing the truth – moments of truth. As for the cross, we all have ours to bear, some more than others. I think the hardest cross to lay down and upon is forgiveness. Surprisedbyjoy states "All of us have forgiveness issues. Human nature clings to grudge holding which leads to destructive bitterness and venom. For 'any hope of any kind of' growth, healing and maturity, 'though' we must forgive ". Often the hardest person to forgive is ourselves. Truly we are our own worse enemies at times. And so begins the crucifixion; we crucify those who have done us wrong and worse we crucify ourselves. It is a vicious circle, one perhaps of a dog trying to chew his own legs off only to succeed in immobilizing himself to never walk again. Oh but if we could forgive, especially ourselves; we would truly rise again anew. A testament to all the Doubting Toms! Here in lays the problem, here in indeed. Inside this fleshy shell of ours, our very own tomb. Maybe the secret is buried in first healing the wounds; rather inflicted by others, and/or circumstances, or self. After all it is Spring and 'Hope Springs Eternal'. And so this is Easter, the passing over and into the realizations of Gethsemane. We have ventured far enough now from the Main-stream Society for most to have seen the middle ground of art imitating life. I much rather join the allusion and dance with the Easter Bunny and color eggs than spend any more time dissecting life’s many illusions, delusions. Cause for now; liken love, spring is in the air - spring is every where!

Related Posts: Epiphany Easter, 1916 by W. B. Yeats

Rebirth Yourself-Emerge From Your Mental Cocoon

Image from Wikipedia

ndpthepoetress: "Many of us have read our fair share of self-help articles proclaiming the Secret in Life is to get plenty of rest, eat right, exercise, etc. However; in the daily mishmash of this, that, and the other; combined with the seemingly never ending to-do list - who actually has the time or energy to abide by the so called “Secret”!

In my opinion, the “Secret” in Life is FIRST: ‘Change Your Thoughts’. Out with the negative, in with the positive. Because when you become enthused, new energy materializes for you. Once your mental energy is increased then you CAN achieve anything YOU set your mind to - no matter how little time you seem to have.

Let’s start with an article about how to Changing Your Thoughts. This excerpt is by Colleen Kettenhofen, “a Phoenix, Arizona motivational speaker, trainer, & co-author of "The Masters of Success ," featured on NBC's Today Show”:"


8 Essentials for Creating Balance Out of Chaos
By Colleen Kettenhofen

Leadership and life balance has been a hot topic for some time now. Employers are waking up to the notion that for people to perform well they have to feel well.

In these trying times it's imperative to stay motivated. Change your mind and you change your circumstances. Change your thinking and you can change your life.

How do you do that? Here are 8 essentials for creating balance:

1. Focus on what you have, not on what you don't have. There will always be someone worse off than you. Whether they're facing a financial crisis, health problems, grief and loss, or something else. If you know someone like this, think of one thing you could do to help them.

For example, there's someone at my church who recently lost his father. A group of us decided to take food to the family. Helping someone gets your mind off your problems. And it makes you grateful for what you do have. You start focusing on the positive. As Denis Waitley says, "You are either the captive or the captain of your thoughts."

2. Feed your strengths, starve your weaknesses. Researchers note the average person has 50,000 thoughts a day. Most of those thoughts are negative. Your mind is like a computer or the crew on a ship. And what orders you give it will determine what you get.

What you dwell on becomes your destiny. What you focus on the longest becomes the strongest. Spend as much time as possible in a job, or in your life in general, in areas that utilize your strengths. Work doesn't have to be a four-letter word!

3. Practice self-control, self-discipline and a strong work ethic. This is a paradox, but doing the things you like least first helps in creating balance. Practicing good work habits, especially early in the day frees up time later on for doing things you enjoy. And you feel more deserving.

The most successful people are those willing to do what others don't want to do. They've mastered the challenge of overcoming procrastination. Live by the motto, "Just do it. Not by the tongue-in-cheek saying I saw on a t-shirt in Hawaii recently which said, "Just do it-tomorrow"."

4. Decide what really matters. Make a list of those activities and individuals that put a spring in your step. What gives you energy and makes you laugh?

For example, spending time with my boyfriend's family is terrific because they're hilarious. I always have belly-aching laughs when I'm with them. Laughter really is the best medicine. Conversely, what detracts from your life and drags you down?Start phasing those things out of your life.

5. Focus on having fun. No matter busy and stressful your days, schedule some time for fun. In creating balance, what makes you happy? For instance, this weekend my man and I are taking our dogs on a day trip to Flagstaff, Arizona. Being at 7,000 feet in the pines helps me "fill the well." There's nothing like crisp mountain air and the smell of the pines to make me forget the cares of the world.

6. Spend time in silence. Make an effort to get more sleep. Studies have shown getting enough sleep helps reduce cravings for carbs and sweets. Temporarily turn off your cell phone, Blackberry, TV or car stereo. Before bed spend quiet time in prayer or meditation.

7. People-pleasers: Learn to say no. Or, if there's something you must do, ask for support. Don't try and do it all yourself.

8. Concentrate single-mindedly on one task until it's complete. Stop multitasking. Sometimes when you try to do 10 things at once, you end the day not having completed anything.

Lastly, it's been said that survivors of emotional, physical, or circumstantial difficulties practice eight things: strong spiritual belief, sense of humor, strong support system, a connection to nature, goals, proper nutrition, openness to new ideas, and get sufficient rest and exercise. In creating balance, which of these can you create today?

Colleen Kettenhofen
Website: http://www.ColleenSpeaks.com

You are free to reprint or repost this article for use in your newsletters, association publications, or intranet provided Colleen Kettenhofen's contact information (name, website, and email) is included with the article.

Related Articles:
Human Stages of Metamorphosis

Change Your Thoughts; Change Your Life by Lisa M. Brazelton

Cubical Human Rat Race

I remember many years ago when a Friend of mine’s Nephew died unexpectedly. Shortly afterwards, we had to sort and move his belongings to appease the Landlord for the next possible tenant. I also recall a Co-Worker stating she had to sort through her Brother’s personal items after he passed away recently. Wondering how and why he accumulated so much over the years, she immediately wanted to organize her own possessions. Venturing into the attic, etc. so Family Members wouldn’t have to; should anything happen to her. As for myself, I was no stranger to the accumulation monster. I knew the hideous creature well. An ogre, ‘once upon a time’; disguised merely as one seemingly innocent storage box. Soon an array of these homely cartons are tucked here, there, and everywhere. They are the swine hoarders of things placed out of sight and out of mind. Nonetheless; I had to face this demon when a 10 year relationship end some years ago. Following the once ignored property being divvied up, there still remained an amass of stuff. Apparently, the demon stuffer refused to die without a fight. However; exhausted, I just crammed the lid down on a few containers and duct-taped the other tops that wouldn’t cooperate. Then I spent the next year thinking more about those darn boxes than about my ended relationship. Realizing us human beings spend our life in some type of box as well. Embryos packaged inside a womb, cut umbilical cord individuals occupying four-sided residences; attendance at schools, churches, most places of employment… - all cubically constructed, and in the wrapping up - encased in a coffin or urn. Perhaps the monster was not the boxes after all, rather whom I had to concur was the pack rat dwelling inside myself. And so the orderliness commenced. Only this time I had to dig down into the cubical roots of my being. There, each item was liken a picture inside a huge photo album, imprinted in my mind with some negative and positive memories. The finale collage however; wasn’t so much the dispersed trash, rather the release of emotional baggage that had secretly been weighing me down for years; boxing me in. And so for all of you with boxes tucked here, there, and everywhere – may you find the inward strength to one day rise up in protest of such a baited rat trap! For once you do - as Bernard De Voto is accredited for saying, “The rat stops gnawing in the wood, the dungeon walls withdraw, the weight is lifted … your pulse steadies and the sun has found your heart, the day was not bad, the season has not been bad, there is sense and even promise in going on.”

Boomtown Rats - Rat Trap

There was a lot of rocking going on that night
Cruising time for the young, bright lights
Just down past the gasworks, by the meat factory door
The five lamp boys were coming on strong
The Saturday night city beat had already started and the
The pulse of the corner boys just sprang into action
And young Billy watched it under the yellow street light
And said "tonight of all nights there's gonna be a fight"

Billy don't like it living here in this town
He says traps have been sprung long before he was born
He says "hope bites the dust behind all the closed doors
And pus and grime ooze from its scab-crusted sores
There's screaming and crying in the high-rise blocks"
It's a rat trap, Billy, but you're already caught
And you can make it if you want to or you need it bad enough
You're young and good-looking and you're acting kind of tough
Anyway it's Saturday night, time to see what's going down
Put on a bright suit, Billy, head for the right side of town
It's only eight o'clock, but you're already bored
You don't know what it is, but there's got to be more
You'd better find a way out, hey, kick down that door
It's a rat trap, and you've been caught

In this town Billy says "everybody's trying to tell you what to do"
In this town Billy says "everybody says you gotta follow rules"
You walk up to the traffic lights
You switch from your left to your right
You push in that button, and that button comes alight
And it's
"Walk, don't walk, walk, don't walk
Talk, don't talk, talk, don't talk
Walk, don't walk, walk, don't walk
Talk, don't talk, talk, don't talk"
Hey, Billy, take a walk, take a walk, take a walk
Billy, take a walk, take a walk, take a walk
Billy, take a walk, take a walk, take a walk
Hey, Billy take a walk with me

Well, little Judy's trying to watch "Top of the Pops"
But mum and dad are fighting, don't they ever stop
She takes off her coat and walks down to the street
It's cold on that road, but it's got that home beat
Deep down in her pocket she finds 50p
Hey, is that any way for a young girl to be
"I'm gonna get out of school, work in some factory
Work all the hours God gave me, get myself a little easy money"
Now, now, now, na na

Her mind's made up, she walks down the road
Her hands in her pockets, coat buttoned 'gainst the cold
She finally finds Billy down at the Italian cafe
When he's drunk it's hard to understand what Billy says
But then he mumbles in his coffee and suddenly roars
"It's a rat trap, Judy, and we've been caught..."

Rat trap
You've been caught in a rat trap
Related Post: Out Of The Box! M.P.H.

Adia

Quantum Physics teaches that nothing is fixed, that there are no limitations, that everything is vibrating energy. Therefore; thoughts are energized. Thus, we are constantly exchanging energy with other people in the world. However; we are unaware of this, much as we do not know what is playing on the radio or television unless we turn the power supply on. Except our power supply to thoughts are constantly on. Nevertheless; just like we can not know what is playing on ever radio station at the same exact moment, nor can we know which thoughts or whom the receiver is of those thoughts and vis versa. Thankfully there are Eureka moments in everyone’s life! A person may have been in a negative relationship. For some, this relationship might have continued for years because the negativity became a habit. Heck, even us Smokers butt another poison to the lips knowing we are adding another nail to our coughin’. At least for some negative relationships, there is a breath of fresh air! Something deep inside yourself has finally awoken. So in your new found wisdom you depart and in departing you break the habit and in breaking the habit you have opened yourself to a world of possibilities. And where there are possibilities there is energy and where there is energy there is thought.

It is at this moment, I am reminded of the story of Adam and Eve. Most reflect on the sin. Me, I see innocence lost and the birth of thought. Much as a child becomes aware of the ‘individual self’ – the flesh… then awareness of those whom coexist with the child. Ultimately; the struggle to form words into sentences to express themselves. Oh, how I truly believe in the lines by Sarah McLachlan, in the song Adia:

’cause we are born innocent, Believe me adia, we are still innocent'

Might then thought merely be but an illusion or disillusion? Nonetheless; thought is energy.

I have recently slithered my way out of habitual gloom to bask in a radiate ambiance of encompassing energy. Yes, even us Writers have our dark sides, it’s called Writer’s Block! It is as if my mind has tuned into a station of inward positive abyss. And I am deeper than I have ever gone before. Take the example of matryoshka Russian doll(my Inner Child is in there some where!), one is nested within the other, and nested and nested … Suddenly the abyss! Energy slowly surges through me like a thousand embracing hugs statically ignited. Instinctively I know, it is the fundamental human connectivity that unites us all. I am emotionally overwhelmed and overjoyed.

Again, rarely do we know whose mind electrically charged ours… And so I am thankful to know whom so positively ignited my mind in the right direction. For to me, the mind is the most beautiful accessory a person has to offer. The mind is liken a flower. If you leave it to wilt it will not develop to its’ full potential. Oh, but nourished, the potentials are unlimited and beyond even our own conscious knowledge. And so perhaps this person whose mind I attuned to is unaware of their full subconscious mental potential. Yet the electrical field surrounding their mind is like a magnet of spiritual wealth. And this my Dear Readers comes from hard inward self work. Progressing through mind, intellect, and ultimately to the very root of ones true being. Then coming up for a breath of fresh air, recharged – reenergized! Allowing positive energy thoughts to flow in and out of the mind.

Some people label this Positive thought energy as The Law of Attraction. Which is defined as: “¹According to proponents, this law is always working whether you want it to or indeed whether you believe in it or not. Feelings, emotions, and appropriate thoughts, they say, make the law work faster on your behalf. Thoughts penetrate time and space, acting as "personal magnets" with their own electrical vibration or frequency. These thoughts reach out and grab other similarly charged thoughts, attracting physical reality, which is merely a slower vibrating energy frequency; one's thoughts are faster more subtle vibrations of the same energy frequency. Advocates of the law claim that quantum physics confirms the existence of this law. This claim is based on the consciousness causes collapse interpretation of the phenomenon of wave function collapse. This interpretation does not actually confirm the law of attraction but provides a link between physics and mysticism. It been elaborated to include other phenomena which cannot be proven scientifically but are nonetheless fundamental to the law of attraction.”

January 01, 2006 Oprah Winfrey covered this subject in depth with an Australian woman by the name of Rhonda Byrne. “Rhonda defines The Secret as the law of attraction, which is the principle that "like attracts like." Rhonda calls it "the most powerful law in the universe," and says it is working all the time. "What we do is we attract into our lives the things we want, and that is based on what we're thinking and feeling," Rhonda says. The principle explains that we create our own circumstances by the choices we make in life. And the choices we make are fueled by our thoughts—which means our thoughts are the most powerful things we have here on earth.” Oprah

No matter how one describes thought – rather cogitation, a law of attraction, separating man from beast… - certainly thought is an energy else might Quantum Physics be wrong?

Aristotle: "The energy of the mind is the essence of life"
Jeane Michelle Culp

Artificial Happiness

Watching an old episode on C-SPAN 2 Book TV, the Author whom spoke about his latest book was awkwardly impassive. In addition, he bungled several words. Fortunately, the subject matter presented kept my attention. The book title, “Artificial Happiness” by Dr. Ronald W. Dworkin. Artificial happiness can be described as anti-depressants given by physicians, when perhaps unnecessary. Dependency on addicting substances. Or an excessive indulgency in various exercises to naturally enhance endorphins. Dr. Dworkin promptly made a distinction regarding clinical depression and unhappiness. Possibly the Author was anxious not to appear as another Tom Cruise - Scientologist, demoting psychology and psychiatry medication. Basically, clinical depression is long term and unhappiness is short term. Essentially, Dr. Ronald W. Dworkin depicted a woman, whom during an interpersonal relationship - wasn’t happy. Her physician treated her with Prozac. After a year on the medication, she did not become any happier. Understandably, she quit taking the pills. Still unhappy, she left her boyfriend. Asked if she wasn’t medicated a year ago, might she had left him? She answered, “Yes, and perhaps I may not have wasted a year of my life, in the process.

I am uncertain how enjoyable or helpful the book” Artificial Happiness” will or can be. Perchance another Reader will inform us if it’s worth a buy. I turned the channel when the Author began blaming any Religion for peoples’ insatiable desire for happiness. The main subject matter is what interests me, unhappiness. Most of us understand or can personally relate to the ingredients for artificial happiness. Narcotics, alcohol, or thrill search bungie jumping. Or merely, overindulging in a gallon of our favorite ice cream - topped with tons of whipped cream, eaten with a shovel! Or playing a sad song repeatedly. All are artificial happiness schemes. All, temporary emotional bandages. Whereas; short term unhappiness - treated by a SSRI, Tricyclic, or MAOI – are mostly inhibitors. The key word being inhibitors, they inhibit us from being happy. Why? Maybe because impermanent unhappiness is a necessary evil. There are times that emerge like an era, when we must grieve. Grieve for loss - loss of a loved one, loss of a job… There are days when hormones may kick and you must scream, cry… From Ecclesiastes:

For every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time of war, and a time of peace.

Or The Byrds Song:

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven

A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven

A time to build up, a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones
A time to gather stones together

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven

A time of war, a time of peace
A time of love, a time of hate
A time you may embrace
A time to refrain from embracing

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven

A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time to love, a time to hate
A time of peace, I swear it's not too late!
The simple fact is, various famous-treasured poems, literature, songs, plays, movies, paintings… exists because there are moments of unhappiness in everyone’s’ life.

So, pass the ice cream!

Sign up to receive weekly emails about Book TV's programming schedule.

Human Stages of Metamorphosis

Image by James Endicott

WHO WILL YOU BE TOMORROW? by Steve Goodier

One man sat at a stop light. The woman in front of him was going through papers on the seat of her car, and when the light changed to green she didn't go. A green light is not a suggestion, you know, it is more of a commandment. But she didn't notice.

When the light turned red again, she still had not moved. The man in the car behind her now started screaming epithets and beating on his steering wheel.

A policeman tapped on his windshield. "You can't arrest me for hollering in my car," the man said. The cop asked for his license and registration, returned to his car, talked on the radio for a while, and finally handed the papers back. The driver protested, "I knew you couldn't cite me for yelling in my own car!"

The officer replied, "I didn't want to cite you for shouting in your car. But I was directly behind you at the light. I saw you screaming and beating your steering wheel, and I said to myself, 'That man is out of control. He's going to hurt someone!' Then I noticed the cross hanging from your rear view mirror, the bright yellow 'Love Is a Choice' license tag, the 'Give Peace a Chance' and 'Prayer Changes Things' bumper stickers, and I was sure you must have stolen the car."

His behaviour did not reflect his bumper stickers. But let's not be too critical. Are we always the people we want to be?

We make changes by stretching. Personal transformation can happen when the person we presently are does not yet resemble the person we hope to be. Better to set high ideals and occasionally fall short than to settle for mediocrity and succeed.

The important question is not, "Who are you today?" It is better to ask, "Who will you be tomorrow?"

Remember: if nothing ever changed, there'd be no butterflies.

Life Magazine cover "The Flapper" by F. A. Leyendecker, 2 February, 1922

Steve Goodier's books and Newsletter can be found at http://LifeSupportSystem.com. LifeSupportSystem.com includes a free subscription to a "daily encouraging lift". "To the point, high quality, often humorous and always encouraging, these uplifting and thought-provoking messages by Steve Goodier can make a positive difference. Sent three times a week."

Click here to learn more about Steve Goodier, founder of the Life Support System.

Thank you for the Permission to reprint "WHO WILL YOU BE TOMORROW?" by Steve Goodier. This permission has been granted to BindingInk.org by Steve Goodier.

Much appreciation to The White Dove Partnership for introducing Steve Goodier to their subscribers via the subscription 'Inspiration - Train Your Brain'

*Related Posts: Butterflies Upon the Will of Power

Is God To Blame?

Is it better to believe there is a God then to die and discover there is a Hell? Maybe the question isn't, is there a God, rather who is God. Strip the disguises from any Holiday Mascot and what is left is the Spirit of the Holiday. Be that spirit ‘Bah, Hum Bug’ or Merry Happy Holiday. Strip all the Religions of their ideas about whom and how God is, what’s left is the Spirit of Hope nurtured by blind faith. And what is hope but a synonymic word for optimistic anticipated expectations. Whilst faith is the blindfold we entrust to guide the subconscious, while our consciousness is busily awake. Kinda like how some drive a car while shaving, makeuping, eat, drink, smoking, while talkin’ on a cell phone. But the question here is why. Why death, suffering, diseases, etc.? It is easier to blame a God that may or may not exist. Much as a poor child may curse Santa Clause for not bring presents. Sadly, those whom for example, pass away painfully from cancer, God of any concept should not be the blame. Sure God is an easy enough target. However; it is humans who made the chemicals that cause such dis-ease. Humans invent cars; many automobiles tragically take the lives of numerous people. Drunk driving killers, humans invented alcohol. And so on and so on. For whom ever made Earth, other planets, stars, people…, only made the basics. It is humans who combined the ingredients. Then blame the damn Maker for giving humans brains! Oh my, if a tree begets an acorn and that acorn grows into a mighty tree that Mother Nature one day crushes upon your residence, whom is to blame? The Maker, the tree, the acorn, Mother Nature, you for your choice of residency…? That is the age old question of our generation. If a gun kills an innocent person, who is to blame? The gun manufactures, the bullet producers, the gunpowder providers..? If a video game leads to violence, who is at fault? The video industry, the animator… Unfortunately, there will never be enough blame to go around for everyone and everything. My Fellow Readers, we could go on and on with your questions about “the ill fates of society and people” The main misgiving however; is your pain. We may not know the whys until we ourselves meet our destination and whatever that holds. Rather it be heaven or hell or merely particles of atomically ions to be recycled back into the universe. Meanwhile; if death crushes the heart, ache damn it, ache. It hurts. It’s not fair. Next, cherish those memories for they are the healing threads for any shattered heart. Then at last, celebrate life. Instead of grieving the date of loss, light a candle on the persons’ birthday, shouting– I’m glad you were born! For in your birth I got to know you, love you. And because you lived, I have the best memories I may of never had, had you not of been born.

(I once posted this as a comment on a fellow blogger post; today, the world is much the same-wondering whom to blame and what to do. So I felt a need to post this comment here. Hope it helps someone.)

Go Fish!

Big Mouth Billy Bass

The philosophy of fish

Author: Right Selection at Articlesbase

The philosophy of fish

Plato examined the dualism of life and Freud delved into the deviant patterns of man’s psyche. People practice Raj Yoga to calm body and mind and Stephen Covey has presented us with eight habits to make us all more effective.

But rarely has a philosophy of life been based on the practices of a fish market. Until now.
It might sound strange but organisations including Wild Wadi and the American Hospital in Dubai have already started putting the Fish! philosophy into practice. And the Bank of Dubai are ready to open their vaults a chink to get the taste of ‘fish’ inside. Architect and proponent of Fish, Stephen Lundin, tells the City Times a little more.

‘I’ve a fascination for energy and carry many observations of the work places that have none. The Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle had so much life there that people came down from their office buildings at lunch times just to get juiced up to go back to work.’

What really caught Lundin’s imagination was the fishmongers’ behaviour and the way they sell fish. Paraphrasing part of his tale in his book, it runs like this: “One salmon flying away to Minnesota’, cries the fishmonger as the glittering silver fish flies through the air in the direction of the purchaser. ‘One salmon flying away to Minnesota,’ chorus his colleagues.

‘Meanwhile around the corner there’s a guy in white overalls and black wellies moving the jaws of another large fish, pretending it’s talking. Two more are actively having a conversation with a fish they’ve just sold and behind the desk, the cashier’s juggling crabs.’

‘It’s all so simple that people can’t figure it out,’ says Lundin. The Pike Place people have created an experience for others and they think that they can make a difference in the world. Essentially they’ve created a culture that they’ve been able to sustain.’

And the principles are simple. Fish is about having fun in the work place, having a buoyant and cheerful attitude and giving something special to the people around you. The question is, how does Stephen Lundin translate the lessons of the fish market into the grey language of our mundane lives?

‘I don’t translate, I inspire by telling my story. People are provoked by it into trying something and they discover how it works in a mortuary, a nursing home or an insurance company. How it works in Australia, New Zealand or Africa. There are thousands of people now who say: ‘my life is valuable’. If I treat that life as precious it will cause me to want to think about how I live my life. If I live a life that is an honour to life itself it also creates something for the people around me. That’s very special.’

Fish is a different way of working and Lundin is adamant that it cannot be strategic. Try to turn it into a progamme and it becomes lifeless without energy.

‘The minute that happens it loses the element that people want: the customer experience. It works through inspiration, modelling and encouragement.’

As children, we’re able to seamlessly blend work with play but when we are adults we lose that capability. By adopting and promoting the Fish philosophy, we can bring that back into our lives (according to Stephen Lundin).

At Wild Wadi they’re getting there already and our man was seriously impressed. And the key points of Fish?
‘Learning how to be fully alive and authentic at work,’ he says as he holds a chipstick under his nose.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/entrepreneurship-articles/the-philosophy-of-fish-860109.html

About the Author:

Right Selection - Event Management invites professional speakers, trainers, and consultants to share their expertise in various fields of learning with the corporate community. The Events division organises:

* Success Seminars inviting participation from the corporate community.
* Customised Workshops for individual companies


You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as you leave the article title, author name, body and resource box in tact (means NO changes) with the links made active and you agree to our posted publisher terms of service.

FISH! Philosophy Official Home

FISH! philosophy Wikipedia

A Tab of Mental Alka-Seltzers

Plop Plop Fizz Fizz, oh what a relief !

Excuse me; I seem to have misplaced my teeth somewhere! No, I do not have false pearly whites. Just I have been nibbling on several jams recently. Than, just as I was about to digest some more from my already full plate, I noticed my bite wasn’t as sharp. Perhaps this is what butter knives were meant for, to help spread it all around! Anyone care for some jam! If only life were this easy! Just think, we could pick and choose what was severed on our dish! Yuck, I don’t want this, ok fork it over – I’ll take some! Assuredly, this would be one extensive meal no one would be shouting for seconds! Regrettably, as if to add salt to an already raw wound, we must almost gracefully accept this fact about life; it’s not that accommodating. For no matter the time, the place, or how much already on any platter, there will always be room for circumstances. However; there is no need to use a knife to slit one’s own throat over this. Whence the clear-cut truth is, circumstances have no margins. Nonetheless, liken any good recipe - with the proper ingredients and preparation, we can maintain a healthy mind and reap our just desserts! Plop Plop Fizz Fizz, oh what a relief that is! Lawyers say I have to add this: Caution: may have to grind a little slower or a little longer in order to absorb what is being offered. Meanwhile; if you find my virtual teeth somewhere out among this blogosphere, kindly return them to me! For perhaps later; I’ll feel the need to chew the fat over a nice glass of wine best served cold.

Bon Appetit!

originally posted 07/07/07

To Curse, To Ponder, To Wonder or Not

“Why are we here? Who are we? Where is all of this "being" leading? What is the meaning of life?” Coffee Talk

And such is the preponderance of a continuous question that has for centuries instigated the curious nature of human beings.

I was fortunate to rent a fantastic dvd discussing these exact questions and more. Admittedly, I was attracted merely by the title. Let me elaborate, many of my Co-Workers understand that instead of cursing I will often do a spin-off from whence certain televisions shows will ‘bleep’ a curse word out of the audio. So at work they are use to me saying the word bleep, what the ‘bleep’ or this ‘bleep’ ‘bleep’ computer is a bleep bleepin’… And depending on the stressful situation at work, I may add – feel free to fill in the bleeps according to your own imagination. BTW, That reminds me of an e-mail forward I once received:

How to Tell If You Need Prayer at Work -

1. When a coworker comes in a little to happy singing "good morning" to everyone and you think, "Somebody needs to slap the s#@! out of her.".....You need to pray at work.

2. When someone comes in and announces, "Office meeting in 5 minutes," and you think, "what the f*&% do they want now."....You need to pray at work.

3. When you computer is mysteriously turned off and you want to say "which one of you sons of b*&#%'s turned off my computer.".....You need to pray at work.

4. When you and a coworker are discussing something and a third person comes in and says "well at my last office...." and you want to say "Who the f*#$ cares?"...You need prayer at work.

5. When you're in the elevator and it stops to pick up someone who stood for five minutes waiting for the darn thing only to go down ONE floor, and you say "that lazy b*$&%#."....You need to pray at work.

6. When you hear a coworker call your name and the first thing that crosses your mind is, "what the f*&% does she want now" and you try to hide underneath your desk...You need to pray at work.

7. When you take some vacation time and come back to find a mountain of paperwork sitting on your desk because no one would do it and you think "sorry a@@ m&*%$#* f*&%$#'s....You need to pray at work.

8. If you have ever thought about poisoning, choking, punching, or slapping someone that you work with....You need to pray at work.

9 If you avoid saying more than "hello" or "how you doing" to someone because you know it's going to lead to their whole f&%#ing life story....You need to pray at work.

10. If you know all the words that have been bleeped out...You DEFINITELY need to pray at work.

Anyhoo; back to the subject at hand, loving math and notably also one of the many fans of the story Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll and being a big fan of the once blog site Wonderland or Not :) - needless to say; when I saw the title of this dvd, "What the BLEEP – Down the Rabbit Hole" starring Marlee Matlin, I had to rent it! Basically the movie states we are all connected. “¹Exploring the worlds of Quantum Physics, Neurology, and Molecular Biology in relation to the spheres of Spirituality”.



Later this month I will be doing another post about this dvd. Meanwhile; the poll on my sidebar is still open, should you wonder or not!:


“²The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity." —Albert Einstein

1. What the Bleep Web Site
2.WHAT THE BLEEP DO WE KNOW!? The Films

Related Posts: Holy Bleep We Are All Connected!, Poll 

Wind Full Ponder

The wind brushes by your skin, unseen yet felt
The wind rustles in the trees, unseen yet heard
The wind though unseen can be playful
Dancing kites up high
Helping birds and insects in their flight
A tool to fly a plane or steer the sails of vessels upon wet waters
And just as assuredly the wind can be foe
Gusting devastation to much in its concealed path
Then without a moments notice change directions, change moods
The wind, perhaps no different than those in life?

© - Jeane Michelle Culp

Throwing Stones

For centuries People have been leaving no stone unturned in trying to figure out how humankind began. Was our initial origin from a God, evolution, Aliens, etc.? Now the mystery of Life may be just a stone's throw away. In fact, such revelation might give new meaning to the old sayings ‘To cast the first stone’ and ‘Can't get blood out of a stone’. When in actuality, according to this theory; we can perhaps get blood out of a stone. ¹In Greek mythology, Deucalion and Pyrrha were the only mortals who survived Zeus’s great flood. ²'Once the deluge was over and the couple were on land again, Deucalion consulted an oracle of Themis about how to repopulate the earth. He was told to throw the bones of his mother behind his shoulder. Deucalion and Pyrrha understood the "mother" to be Gaia, the mother of all living things, and the "bones" to be rocks. They threw the rocks behind their shoulders, which soon began to lose their hardness and change form. Their mass grew greater, and the beginnings of human form emerged. The parts that were soft and moist became skin, the veins of the rock became people's veins, and the hardest parts of the rocks became bones. The stones thrown by Pyrrha became women; Those thrown by Deucalion became men.' Of course this is not etched in stone. Maybe that explains why theories like this are not offered in many preliminary schools as an alternative to the dual creation opposition. However; not being provided with the wide-range of speculations available on any subject, obstructs the stepping stones to not only freedom of choice - rather also impedes free thinking, oppressing the imagination. Hence, the almost innate need for mental stimulation is consequently sought else where. And so from the ancient Stone Age to once arcade, to television sets, to our computers commences the Golden Age of Video games happy to offer what schools fail – stimulus to the imagination. Video games, possibly a Medusa's industry turning emotions to stone because repetitiveness is seemingly learnt behavior that additionally stunts free thinking just as well as selective data. Conceivably, a variety of knowledge on any given subject is the only remedy to truly nourish the ravenous brain. Therefore; free a Person to think for themselves by giving them access to all available options. For Humans may not have actually come from stone, so why stonewall³ us.

Footnotes:
1. Walden and Civil Disobedience By Henry David Thoreau
2. Wikipedia
3. Slang: not give essential information

Smoking Addiction

Not something Santa would approve of, however; I do smoke cigarettes despite being diagnosed and treated for bronchitis, asthma, borderline COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and knowing one Family Member has emphysema. Throat cancer Patients have a laryngectomy, “which involves removing the larynx, inserting a one-way valve in its place and diverting the air flow to a hole cut into the back of the throat ¹." Many People have seen or heard about these Patients whom smoke, simply cover this hole in their throat and continue to inhale the tempting rolled substance.

The fact is that cigarette smoking is more than a habit. Smoking is an addiction. A habit is “a behavior pattern acquired by frequent repetition or physiologic exposure that shows itself in regularity or increased facility of performance ²." Where as an addiction is a “compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance (as heroin, nicotine, or alcohol) characterized by tolerance and by well-defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawal; broadly : persistent compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be harmful ³." Without the poisonous psychoactive drug nicotine, smoking would merely be a habit.

A Friend of mine, currently 67 years old; has smoked for over 40 years. Recently she tried the prescription Chantix to help her quit smoking. The drug caused a few nightmares, treatable oral blisters, and bland taste buds. However; within less than a month she had succeeded in not smoking. Quickly her oral blisters healed, her taste buds returned to normal, and to date she has not smoked.

“How does CHANTIX work? First, you have to know how nicotine works. There are receptors for nicotine in the brain. When smoke is inhaled, nicotine attaches to these receptors. This sends a message to a different part of the brain to release a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine gives a feeling of pleasure. But it only lasts for a short time. The body wants to repeat this feeling. Based on research, it is believed that CHANTIX™ (varenicline) works by activating these receptors and blocking nicotine from attaching to them. However, CHANTIX does not contain nicotine ⁴."

In other words, Chantix blocks the pleasure factor in the brain. I am uncertain in doing so, what other pleasures this medicine may block; such as over indulging in food… Perhaps Chantix is a modern oral lobotomy. The fact is, the drug worked for my Friend and I am in hopes to soon try this prescription.

Meanwhile, these memories plague my mind. A Co-Worker had minor chest pains. Thinking such maybe a heart attack, he drove himself to the Emergency Room. However; before going in, he admitted wanting one more cigarette, so he sat in his truck and smoked. Later that day, after his initial examination, he underwent heart surgery for a placement of two stents.

Once, a Gentleman in a wheelchair whom also merely had the use of two arms from the shoulder blade to above the elbow, had taped on one of his arms a fork. He asked me to place a cigarette in-between the fork prongs so he could smoke.

Perhaps you have similar stories or posts about smoking. If so please share them here.

Ultimately, I think Dennis Leary, (“a Golden Globe and Emmy Award-nominated American actor, comedian, writer and director. He is known for his often angry comedic style and his frequent chain smoking⁵.”) surmised this addiction best when he said:

“You could have cigarettes that come in a black pack, with a skull and a cross bones on the front, called tumors and smokers would be lined up around the block going, "I can't wait to get my hands on these f** things! ⁶"

Related Posts:

Thank yourself by not smoking by Francis Scudellari




Footnotes:
1. United Bristol Healthcare
2. Merriam-Webster's Dictionary
3. Merriam-Webster's Dictionary
4. CHANTIX™
5. Wikipedia
6. Dennis Leary

Loving Flowers

Do you ever wonder where love goes once two People separate due to any circumstance? Into the memory; perhaps to remind us of once finer days or to haunt us while trying to mend anew. For love can never truly die, only be unable to blossom any further. Many a flowery seed are scattered and planted on this Earth. However; not ever single one of those seeds develop or grow to their full potential. Other flowers are often made stagnate by weeds. Take the daffodils for example.

“Daffodils have been known for thousands of years. They figure in the myth of Narcissus, which is another name for the daffodil plant. Narcissus fell in love with his own image in a pool of water, and was turned into a flower. The drooping head of the daffodil flower represents Narcissus staring at himself in the water.”

Narcissus may have taken self-love to the extreme, however; salvageable may be an important point from this Greek Mythology. Perhaps one must first love themselves before being able to love another. For a flower thrives via nurturing elements, mutualism (wherein both species benefit from the interaction) – not by means of codependency (parasitism wherein one organism benefits and the other is harmed.) Therefore; elaborating on love yourself first, perhaps a person also needs to be contented with themselves as not to depend or rely on another to fulfill that void in oneself and so on. If one can not give themselves these things or more, one should not expect another to make up for self-lack. Hence, allowing mutual adaption to coexist in a relationship, thus benefiting each other not out of want, rather interaction.

According to TheFreeDictionary, “A famous land version of mutual symbiosis is the relationship of the Egyptian Plover bird and the crocodile. In this relationship, the bird is well known for preying on parasites that feed on crocodiles which are potentially harmful for the animal. To that end, the crocodile openly invites the bird to hunt on his body, even going so far as to open the jaws to allow the bird enter the mouth safely to hunt. For the bird's part, this relationship not only is a ready source of food, but a safe one considering that few predator species would dare strike at the bird at such proximity to its host.”

And so here’s to flowers and their essences. Perhaps there is truth in the Bach Flower Remedies. “ Flower essences are dilute extracts of various types of flowers and plants that are used to treat animals and people. They are similar to homeopathic remedies in that they are diluted and potentized to make them more effective than just using the original flower as a herbal extract. The person who first developed the original flower remedies was Dr. Edward Bach, a famous English physician. He developed the Bach Flower Remedies when he was working as a homeopathic practitioner and devoted the last years of his life to researching and developing his remedies, from 1930 onwards. He wanted to find a simpler form of treatment that would not require anything to be destroyed or altered.

Dr. Bach believed that diseases of the body come about as a result of imbalances or negativity at the level of the soul, and by correcting the problem here healing would result and the body would heal on all levels. The flower remedies act to balance in harmonies in the emotional and spiritual body, and bring about a gentle healing by bringing the body back in balance with itself. They act almost a catalysts to cause healing. There were originally thirty eight Bach Flower Remedies that at that time Dr. Bach felt would correct all imbalances that were possible. There are remedies such as Holly which he found would heal the state of anger, and open the heart, and remedies that deal with a variety of other emotions from lack of confidence to over enthusiasm and impatience.”

After all, scented flowers do seem to soothe the memories of the heart. As well as from flowers, there seems much can be learnt about life, living, and love.

e.e. cummings - in time of daffodils

in time of daffodils(who know
the goal of living is to grow)
forgetting why,remember how

in time of lilacs who proclaim
the aim of waking is to dream,
remember so(forgetting seem)

in time of roses(who amaze
our now and here with paradise)
forgetting if,remember yes

in time of all sweet things beyond
whatever mind may comprehend,
remember seek(forgetting find)

and in a mystery to be
(when time from time shall set us free)
forgetting me,remember me

Philosophical Riddle

(This post is accredited to JIM - Thanks for giving me the strength to push through another door)

lansy from A Drop of Tear in Heaven has a saying, “change your emotion to change your life”. Recently, I have rephrased this or am using an old saying to fit a preponderance, “Change the Question to Change Your Life”. For to often circumstances can and will go wrong in life. Might we instead of asking - Why is this happening, ask rather - What can be done. For as I Hate Artists opened my eyes to, in saying Why; “you paint the picture that you are nothing but a victim”. And so begins my riddle. Say you change the Question and you do ‘What’ can be done about any given circumstance, yet the seemingly inevitable persist; circumstances continue to emerge as stumbling blocks. Does this mean that what a little old Lady in a wheel chair once said that “yea God loves me - but He hates you”, is true? (God being whatever entity one prefers). Now in helping figure out this riddle, bear in mind that we can’t argue ‘not the right timing’, because opportunity is abundant. And we can not argue, ‘not meant to be’; because there is an abundant of evidence to the contrary. Thanks for your input in re to this Philosophical Riddle and have fun!

The Red Carpet

Awe yeah, the almighty red carpet! When people imagine the red carpet, they often envision – lights, camera, action – Hollywood! Star strutted status of various anticipated prestigious awards! Or Royalty and their entourage. However; there are numerous monumental red carpet moments in every ones life! Be it a Prom or Graduation. Job promotion or Career transformation. Marriage or get the Cradle ready. A Recreational recognition in Sports, Art, the Community, etc. The Cherry runner is afoot endlessly for any ripeness!

Oh, but heed the slippery slopes whence lay the thinly padded ‘blush mat’ of Shame. For even many a President have walked this crimson carpet. For example, he who could not quote “Fool Me Once Shame on You; Fool Me Twice Shame on Me”, has now ironically earned the name, ‘Bush Shame’.

And so there are occasions to proudly roll out the ‘burgundy carpet’ and there are times to tread lightly upon it. Today though; I learnt about the ‘ruby carpeted Encore’. Whence from behind the camouflaged curtain a figure appears to take a final bow. However; if any of us had to walk this red carpet, surely none could ever be as diligent as this distinguished Gentleman.

Scene: Work

Gathering: Employers, Employees, Co-Workers, Friends

Enter: Distinguished Gentleman

Précis of Speech: As most of you all know, today is my last day as I have been diagnosed with a rare inoperable stomach caner and will be going to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland for treatment.

This Distinguished Gentleman continued, I am not much of a religious man yet. However; if some of you are – please remember to include my Wife in your prayers also. He then added his usual sense of humor to what has to be the bleakest moment in his life. Having returned home from War some years ago, he promised himself milkshakes! Stating, and though there is no scientific proof rather Arby’s or Wendy’s or McDonald's… milkshakes may have contributed to his stomach cancer; he sure enjoyed them as we all can tell by the size of his belly. He continued by humorously going into detail about how our Security Personnel adamantly would not let him enter the work premises today because he inadvertently forgot his proper identification. Ending, he therefore must leave before Security towed his car off.

Here is a man; already burdened with irrefutable fate, having to put his best foot forward for his peers – Friends…, whilst being ridiculed by his and our own Security System. Yet instead of giving up, turning his automobile around, and just returning home; he – being the Distinguished Gentleman he is - merely parks his auto on the side and walks inside his place of employment, sequentially to pace the ‘ruby carpet’ for us.

Surely cancer does not stand a fighting chance against such a Man with this kind of admirable caliber!

"Is That All There Is" by Peggy Lee

Love The Greatest Survival?

Hello My Readers, it has been awhile since I have written a personal post here on Binding Ink. Previous post included my Friend D. G. and his pet roaches. Poetry by my Friend D. G. And a one time Friend of mine – Poet/Writer Jen whom was sadly murdered Unfinished Masterpiece (Serendipity Part 2) . Today I would like to talk about survival. In a section on Blogger called ‘About Me’ I have added the following along with a question for you Readers:

About Me
A Survivor: I survived the truth! I'm a survivor! As a child, when I learned that there was no true holiday Mascots (encase kids read this and don't know the truth yet, lets just use the word mascots), I survived. When society said there were houses with white picket fences, I survived the truth which is you're lucky if some people have a tent to live in. When Friendships that were suppose to be for a life-time, turned out to only be my judges-I survived! The truth is, they weren't my true Friends to begin with! When many a Lover departed, I survived the truth! They weren't my True Love. Though, if one day I should learn that there is no such thing as a one and only True Love, guess what? I'll survive that truth too, cause I am a Survivor! Are you?

I draw attention to this, one to encourage People to recognize the Survivor inside themselves and I gladly welcome you to share your triumphs. Secondly, beside Mascots and white picket fences, in your opinion - what other seemingly myths has Society proclaimed? Have these seemingly myths helped or hindered Society? Thirdly, it is important to realize that survival covers a wide range of areas. Physical, mental, emotional, circumstances … Those who have Survived breast cancer… Those who have Survived a crisis such as a death… Those whom have Survived rape… Those who have or are Surviving war….

Having clarified survival so more People can recognize themselves as a Survivor, I am still drawn to my last line in ‘About Me’, “Though, if one day I should learn that there is no such thing as a one and only True Love, guess what? I'll survive that truth too”. Perhaps it is the Poet in me or the fact that many a poem and songs have been written about surviving love, loss, and longing. Therefore; I leave you my Readers with my contribution to such:

Some where between life and death,
I have died and am faking being alive
But this dress rehearsal is getting old
Wrinkles have already set in
Just once before actual death beckons me back home
I would like to truly live
To dance beyond the curtain, into my ‘Happy Ever After’
Oh, how does it really feel to have someone love you, as you love them
For hence is where the purest magic begins
Whence two hearts unite – sparks ignite
Twice the energy – twice the life
As all of yesterdays shadows slowly disappear
You emerge as one to concur the world as two individuals among the living
Alive and well ‘until death do us part’
But for now I must set aside these dreams
For hope is such a fragile thing
Meanwhile the show must go on, as must I
And dawn another day of dress rehearsal,
On this stage called life.
Written by © - Jeane Michelle Culp

Todays’ question: I am a Survivor! Are you?

Laurels

.My excursion began unpretentiously, my task simple – to define the lovely Mountain Laurel.

Enacted by the General Assembly as the State Flower for Connecticut in 1907 and Pennsylvania in May 5, 1933 . Mountain Laurel was first mentioned in John Smith's "General History," in 1624 specimens were sent to Linnaeus, the famous botanist, by the Swedish explorer Peter Kalm in 1750.

Linnaeus gave it the name of Kalmia latifolia, honoring the name his correspondent and at the same time describing the "wide-leafed" characteristic of the plant. In addition to being called the "Mountain Laurel," the plant has also been spoken of as "Calico Bush" and "Spoonwood." State Flower

However; for such an attractive plant, there is controversy. It is said that the Delaware Indians used laurel for suicide. Bees even produce poisonous honey from its nectar. I have found little on the internet to support the Indians suicide and even greater debate surrounding this plant being poisonous to animals. The following excerpt may have claim to such diversities:

“Mountain laurel is a very poisonous narcotic plant, the leaves of which were at one time used by some native North American Indian tribes in order to commit suicide. Because of its toxicity, it is a remedy that is seldom used in modern herbalism,but the leaves have been used externally in herbal medicine and are a good remedy for many skin diseases and inflammation.

Known Hazards: The foliage is poisonous to animals[21, 65, 76]. The whole plant is highly toxic[222]. Cases of poisoning have occurred when livestock or game birds have been eaten after they have ingested this plant[238].” Plants For a Future

As I continued my pleasure trip into the mountains, I cut across the beaten path of curiosity to ponder laurel and found:

A Laurel is a 16-17 year old participant in the Young Women's program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The name came from the Old testament, a laurel is a type of tree that in many parables people leaned on. -Wikipedia

The Laurel was the third English gold coin with a value of twenty shillings or one pound produced during the reign of King James I. It was named after the laurel that the king is portrayed as wearing on his head, but it is considerably poorer in both quality and style than the sovereign and Unite which preceded it. The coin was produced during James I's third coinage (1619-1625), five different busts of the king being used in these years. All the coins were produced at the Tower Mint in London. The laurel weighed 140.5 grains or just under 0.3 troy ounce, less than the previous Unite but almost exactly the same as the Unite issued under Charles I. -Wikipedia

I was about to 'rest on my laurels' when I finally came across,“Mountain laurel bushes are sometimes confused with bay laurel trees (Laurus nobilis), the small Mediterranean trees prominent in history and literature. The ancient Greeks and Romans fashioned bay laurel tree’s leaves into wreaths, to be worn as crowns by the victors in sporting events and military campaigns. When you think of Julius Caesar, you probably picture him wearing just such a wreath.” Landscaping

Its name "bay"--from the Anglo-Saxon--also means "crown," Nicholas Culpepper testified in 1653 to its curative powers in his Herbal, "Neither witch nor devil, thunder nor lightning will hurt a man where a bay tree is." SOUP OF THE EVENING

The term "baccalaureate," means laurel berry, and refers to the ancient practice of honoring scholars and poets with garlands from the bay laurel tree. Wikipedia hence a farewell sermon to a graduating class at their commencement ceremonies or an academic degree conferred on someone who has successfully completed undergraduate studies

Triumphant athletes of ancient Greece were awarded laurel garlands and was given to winners at Olympic games since 776 BC Today, grand prix winners are bedecked with laurel wreaths

“Ever since, the foliage of bay laurel trees has been a symbol of victory. It is still used as such for the Olympics. We even have the expression, “to rest on one’s laurels,” meaning to be overly content with one’s past achievements. It is also this more famous laurel that is used as a flavoring agent in cooking, often referred to as “bay leaf.”

The Greek word for laurel is dhafni, named for the myth of the nymph Daphne, who was changed into a laurel tree by Gaea

“In Greco-Roman mythology the nymph, Daphne was transformed into a bay laurel tree, to save her from Apollo’s unwelcome advances. Apollo was chasing this daughter of the river-god, Peneus through the woods when the magical metamorphosis occurred. The tale of her transformation has been passed down to us by the Latin poet, Ovid -- in the appropriately titled, Metamorphoses. Edith Hamilton, in her Mythology, relates the tale to us in English with her usual charm:

“She felt his breath upon her neck, but there in front of her the trees opened and she saw her father’s river. She screamed to him, ‘Help me! Father, help me!’ At the words a dragging numbness came upon her, her feet seemed rooted in the earth she had been so swiftly speeding over. Bark was enclosing her; leaves were sprouting forth. She had been changed into a tree, a laurel.”

Again we are reminded, “Muntain laurel, is related to its namesake, the bay laurel tree only in name. Indeed, the common name for Kalmia latifolia derives from the fact that, when Europeans encountered it in the New World, it reminded them superficially of bay laurel trees. But while the foliage of bay laurel trees is used as a culinary herb, mountain laurel is poisonous!” Oh but the aroma and benefits of the wonderful bay leaf!:

Attributed Medicinal Properties
In the Middle Ages it was believed to induce abortions and to have many magical qualities. It was once used to keep moths away, owing to the leafs lauric acid content which gives it insecticidal properties. Bay leaf has many properties which make it useful for treating high blood sugar, migraine headaches, bacterial and fungal infections, and gastric ulcers. Bay leaves and berries have been used for their astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emetic and stomachic properties. Bay Oil, or Oil of Bays (Oleum Lauri) is used in liniments for bruising and sprains. Bay leaf has been used as an herbal remedy for headaches. It contains compounds called parthenolides, which have proven useful in the treatment of migraines. Bay leaf has also been shown to help the body process insulin more efficiently, which leads to lower blood sugar levels.It has also been used to reduce the effects of stomach ulcers. Bay Leaf contains eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Bay leaf is also an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. Bay Leaf has also been used to treat rheumatism, amenorrhea, and colic. Encyclopedia of Spices.

My, what a journey with just a simple mountain laurel in mind. I have found history and wonders and hopefully left you - My Readers with lots to ponder