Terry Lloyd's Blog, page 13
June 18, 2023
Ideas about Reality.
Ideas about reality usually start from things that can be seen. Such as houses, trees, grass birds or insects. However starting from that base would not give a true picture of what is involved in how those objects have come about. A more in depth investigation could reveal everything is in a process of potential change from this time and before. For example the earth acquired the moon by a random collision of another small planet. There have been drastic changes to the surface and atmosphere of the earth. Even the length of day has dramatically altered from six hours each day to twenty four hours and that is due to the spin of the earth slowing down.
The reality concerning life has so many turns and twists that have been beneficial to some species of life yet for others it has resulted in extinction. Over time only 0.01 percent of life has survived and it seems to me there is little evidence of any one species being favoured above the probability of chance for survival.
Trying to explain reality by looking at a fixed point, ignores the past and the future. It is natural to come up with entertaining stories that show intention and purpose, when in my opinion things just happen, of course I do acknowledge that agents with the ability of intention have evolved through natural process. However the counter position could be in the form of a specific challenge to produce something that has already evolved. You can not demand a natural process without intention to act as if it had.
The reality is mankind is a product of evolution and has survived competing species. Some people believe its success in survival was due to intention. Any other species that survived would be able to claim the same thing.
We live in an environment that is full of objects that have been created with intention and that potentially obscures other objects that have evolved by natural creation without specific intention. A true picture of reality needs appreciation of multiple perspectives and reasoning.
The reality concerning life has so many turns and twists that have been beneficial to some species of life yet for others it has resulted in extinction. Over time only 0.01 percent of life has survived and it seems to me there is little evidence of any one species being favoured above the probability of chance for survival.
Trying to explain reality by looking at a fixed point, ignores the past and the future. It is natural to come up with entertaining stories that show intention and purpose, when in my opinion things just happen, of course I do acknowledge that agents with the ability of intention have evolved through natural process. However the counter position could be in the form of a specific challenge to produce something that has already evolved. You can not demand a natural process without intention to act as if it had.
The reality is mankind is a product of evolution and has survived competing species. Some people believe its success in survival was due to intention. Any other species that survived would be able to claim the same thing.
We live in an environment that is full of objects that have been created with intention and that potentially obscures other objects that have evolved by natural creation without specific intention. A true picture of reality needs appreciation of multiple perspectives and reasoning.
June 11, 2023
Tips for Learning.
My school days, in hindsight, are a revelation of several aspects involved in learning. I should make it clear that my early days of academic achievements were sadly less than genius status or fantastically outstanding. Regular school reports claimed and highlighted that he tries hard but fails to use his full potential.
In the two years before leaving school something changed and that was my attitude. I began to pay attention to the subject and became alert. Lessons had changed into a challenge that I took on positively. Suddenly in my free time at home I was telling people details about the previous lessons on different types of rock formations. It did not matter what the subject had been, I was enjoying my ability to recall the new things that I was learning. When revision time came at school I enthusiastically used every second to thoroughly review the previous term's work.
At the same time my sleep duration and quality had improved. It was gratifying that instead of being at the bottom of the class, I had no trouble being top. At a later time I learnt that people in general retain the beginning and end of a lesson. So with that knowledge it is better to break your study into small units rather than a long session.
On reviewing the comments of a memory champion, the fact of making mistakes is a part of the learning process. The ability to retain something new can be enhanced by not waiting to recall everything perfectly.
I hope these small but significant insights into learning may help others, who like me failed to understand, attitude opens the door to paying attention and becoming more alert. Repetition of recall strengthens the memory. Taking breaks helps the concentration to more ably retain new information. If I was tired, learning slows down. Making mistakes is part of the learning process and can be stepping stones to perfect recall.
It can be immensely important to set and define the aims of acquiring new knowledge, realise attitude can influence aptitude, to illustrate positive actions can enhance the ability to enjoy learning new things and to break down the learning process.
In the two years before leaving school something changed and that was my attitude. I began to pay attention to the subject and became alert. Lessons had changed into a challenge that I took on positively. Suddenly in my free time at home I was telling people details about the previous lessons on different types of rock formations. It did not matter what the subject had been, I was enjoying my ability to recall the new things that I was learning. When revision time came at school I enthusiastically used every second to thoroughly review the previous term's work.
At the same time my sleep duration and quality had improved. It was gratifying that instead of being at the bottom of the class, I had no trouble being top. At a later time I learnt that people in general retain the beginning and end of a lesson. So with that knowledge it is better to break your study into small units rather than a long session.
On reviewing the comments of a memory champion, the fact of making mistakes is a part of the learning process. The ability to retain something new can be enhanced by not waiting to recall everything perfectly.
I hope these small but significant insights into learning may help others, who like me failed to understand, attitude opens the door to paying attention and becoming more alert. Repetition of recall strengthens the memory. Taking breaks helps the concentration to more ably retain new information. If I was tired, learning slows down. Making mistakes is part of the learning process and can be stepping stones to perfect recall.
It can be immensely important to set and define the aims of acquiring new knowledge, realise attitude can influence aptitude, to illustrate positive actions can enhance the ability to enjoy learning new things and to break down the learning process.
June 4, 2023
Cost of Living.
In this time of financial hardship, I have to say that it is so depressing to find out the leaders of the country once again appear to occupy their time with the UK monarchy and contemplating yet another crowning in Scotland of Charles and Camilla.
Every period in history deserves a relatable and realistic form of structure and it has to be noted that lately the monarchy seems to be doing everything that it can to taint itself with scandal and disrepute. It does make one question recent sad events and why should a chosen few be able to flout the laws of road safety and play skittles with the vulnerable members of the public?
In keeping with an aptness for the times, the latest idea that the London Labour mayor has acted on is to increase the congestion area charge surrounding London. People already undergoing an extreme cost of living crisis, whereby food, fuel, clothing and every living expense has gone up hugely will potentially have no other realistic choice for their livelihood but to travel into work and face an additional, substantial bill for the effort.
To be fair, I must mention that the leader of the Scottish Parliament came up with another brilliant idea in his mind and that was for visitors to Scotland, claiming they should pay a tax for that privilege. Big up the work of the tourist board, why don’t you?
I would suggest ideas that turn a loss into a profit are more useful. Of course that might be more challenging than simply imposing a tax that will increase everybody’s cost of living, but we should sacrifice where we need to, don’t you think?
Off the top of my head, I can come up with green, clean suggestions, for example how about turning the disposal of sewage into an energy source? While there are humans there will always be a constant supply.
In all seriousness the UK is an island and surrounded by sea. Wave and tide power are hardly being used for the best benefit of the community. A lot more could be done and quicker, I am all in favour of ideas but please keep them sensible, sane and in the significant interest of the public population.
Every period in history deserves a relatable and realistic form of structure and it has to be noted that lately the monarchy seems to be doing everything that it can to taint itself with scandal and disrepute. It does make one question recent sad events and why should a chosen few be able to flout the laws of road safety and play skittles with the vulnerable members of the public?
In keeping with an aptness for the times, the latest idea that the London Labour mayor has acted on is to increase the congestion area charge surrounding London. People already undergoing an extreme cost of living crisis, whereby food, fuel, clothing and every living expense has gone up hugely will potentially have no other realistic choice for their livelihood but to travel into work and face an additional, substantial bill for the effort.
To be fair, I must mention that the leader of the Scottish Parliament came up with another brilliant idea in his mind and that was for visitors to Scotland, claiming they should pay a tax for that privilege. Big up the work of the tourist board, why don’t you?
I would suggest ideas that turn a loss into a profit are more useful. Of course that might be more challenging than simply imposing a tax that will increase everybody’s cost of living, but we should sacrifice where we need to, don’t you think?
Off the top of my head, I can come up with green, clean suggestions, for example how about turning the disposal of sewage into an energy source? While there are humans there will always be a constant supply.
In all seriousness the UK is an island and surrounded by sea. Wave and tide power are hardly being used for the best benefit of the community. A lot more could be done and quicker, I am all in favour of ideas but please keep them sensible, sane and in the significant interest of the public population.
May 28, 2023
Precious Consciousness.
What is consciousness? For me it was a real and vivid depiction, an introduction to experiencing life, as if waking from a dream. Why was this the situation? As a teenager I had sustained an accident when riding my bicycle. I was extremely lucky not to have suffered more serious damage than the blow to my head. I was told later on that the accident had involved a car and myself, although I could not recall anything from the incident. Two weeks later and I was staring at the white ceiling over my bed, as I lay wondering where I was and what was happening.
Everything back then had seemed like it was in slow motion and distant from me. I vaguely heard that somebody was saying my name and as my vision cleared I could see a lady's face. She was asking me questions and the sound of her voice triggered a feeling that I should say something. Thinking was extremely slow and words were eveding me as I struggled to think of an appropriate reply to the gentle questioning.
Eventually things would return to normal. I did not know at the time how precious the concept of consciousness was to me.
I am told that from being completely unconscious and passive, my condition slowly improved to being able to move around but like a baby with no intelligible speech or understanding. I was told that I loved orange juice, would often stand up in bed and for a time had virtually no inhibitions. I hate to think of what a trial I must have been to those hard working nurses but at the time that thought was not one that influenced me.
When people talk about consciousness, as if it is some sort of property distinct from the brain, my personal experience makes me doubt that. During that unclear stage, I know that there were a few attributes that all interrelated and came back together. It was a bit like a puzzle that had to fit bits into a certain shape or form. When some pieces slotted back in, it became easier to find other missing parts.
Everything back then had seemed like it was in slow motion and distant from me. I vaguely heard that somebody was saying my name and as my vision cleared I could see a lady's face. She was asking me questions and the sound of her voice triggered a feeling that I should say something. Thinking was extremely slow and words were eveding me as I struggled to think of an appropriate reply to the gentle questioning.
Eventually things would return to normal. I did not know at the time how precious the concept of consciousness was to me.
I am told that from being completely unconscious and passive, my condition slowly improved to being able to move around but like a baby with no intelligible speech or understanding. I was told that I loved orange juice, would often stand up in bed and for a time had virtually no inhibitions. I hate to think of what a trial I must have been to those hard working nurses but at the time that thought was not one that influenced me.
When people talk about consciousness, as if it is some sort of property distinct from the brain, my personal experience makes me doubt that. During that unclear stage, I know that there were a few attributes that all interrelated and came back together. It was a bit like a puzzle that had to fit bits into a certain shape or form. When some pieces slotted back in, it became easier to find other missing parts.
May 21, 2023
Continuous Change.
The one perpetual fact that is recognisable, in the Universe and life on Earth, is continuous change. At first glance it may appear the universe is static but in actual fact new stars and solar systems with numerous planets are naturally being created. The rate of natural creation is mind blowing and without any specific intention. This includes life on Earth. Especially the variety of life forms. There have been radical changes such as life that survived without the need for oxygen but some of that life became extinct with the abundance of oxygen. Even the proliferation of oxygen was initiated without intention by Cyanobacteria which is a blue green algae and by photosynthesis converts Carbon Dioxide and water into carbohydrates and free Oxygen. The production of Oxygen by the algae is described as a byproduct.
Just to make the point clear, I am not suggesting that every species of life has to change but all life has the potential for change. Even species that have survived for millions of years could have variations in their physiology. I love this idea, because it has astounding possibilities!
You may well ask how the Universe exists? If there was a starting point, the qualities to survive would ultimately be to prevail or not. It would be natural selection in its grandest terms. It is impossible to know how many other Universes survive or become extinct at the starting point. However chaos and order can only have one worthwhile outcome. That is a certain amount of order must survive, otherwise there would be no Universe. Unintended chaos in the form of countless collisions consistently takes place as meteors and galaxies collide. In time, stars reach the end of life spans and some large stars explode, releasing new material for new stars. That new material is the basis for planets and life.
I will turn my attention to life involving Homo Sapiens which are a product of change. There have been competing species that have interbred leaving traces of the event in some modern peoples’ DNA. This can be seen in the Neanderthals and Denisovans. There are also at least eight hominids before the domination of Homo Sapiens. In that respect change could have been hastened with the demise of the Neanderthals by conflict with Homo Sapiens. Thus only leaving one species of Humans.
In conclusion I would suggest that ignoring the effects of change would leave the observer with a false view of reality. Some changes can be predicted such as ageing and dying or the birth of new life. Whereas some change can be unpredictable like accidents or pandemics. Change is necessary though and that is what makes almost everything a possibility.
Just to make the point clear, I am not suggesting that every species of life has to change but all life has the potential for change. Even species that have survived for millions of years could have variations in their physiology. I love this idea, because it has astounding possibilities!
You may well ask how the Universe exists? If there was a starting point, the qualities to survive would ultimately be to prevail or not. It would be natural selection in its grandest terms. It is impossible to know how many other Universes survive or become extinct at the starting point. However chaos and order can only have one worthwhile outcome. That is a certain amount of order must survive, otherwise there would be no Universe. Unintended chaos in the form of countless collisions consistently takes place as meteors and galaxies collide. In time, stars reach the end of life spans and some large stars explode, releasing new material for new stars. That new material is the basis for planets and life.
I will turn my attention to life involving Homo Sapiens which are a product of change. There have been competing species that have interbred leaving traces of the event in some modern peoples’ DNA. This can be seen in the Neanderthals and Denisovans. There are also at least eight hominids before the domination of Homo Sapiens. In that respect change could have been hastened with the demise of the Neanderthals by conflict with Homo Sapiens. Thus only leaving one species of Humans.
In conclusion I would suggest that ignoring the effects of change would leave the observer with a false view of reality. Some changes can be predicted such as ageing and dying or the birth of new life. Whereas some change can be unpredictable like accidents or pandemics. Change is necessary though and that is what makes almost everything a possibility.
May 14, 2023
Animal Loyalty.
My family and I experienced owning a little kitten and it was, I have to tell you, initially a problematic affair. Although I had kept dogs, birds, fish and rabbits in the past, on this occasion the involvement of an owner and animal rapport was going to be very different.
Unfortunately the kitten had a health condition that needed veterinary care. Having been separated early on from his mother, the what has to be described as feisty feline, did have a number of health complaints. Ranging from skin irritations to tummy problems, the poorly young cat had a lot to deal with and even more to say for himself!
Quite quickly, he had interaction noises particular to the person in the family. Little and lovely, he would purr and display content expressions when with my wife, mewl and mew in play games with my daughter, snooze and even snore when asleep in my mother in law’s slipper and growl at me, when we would wrestle together for fun.
Each day after work I visited the vets and spent time playing with the kitten. Then came the time that the kitten could be taken home. Still getting over certain digestive issues, the kitten needed a safe and experienced environment to thrive in. Sometimes a specific home environment suits a pet better and in this case fortunately a lady already known to us with extensive wildlife and feline knowledge offered to help out with the kitten. The lady already had a cat, dog and bird. The new home was ideal for the kitten that with the right amount of dedicated care and expertise developed into an even more strong minded cat.
That residence had an incredible sense of animal loyalty. Not just in the owners but the varied pets therein. The group had a passive tolerance of the playful character of the youngest member of the household, the older and wiser cat even took the kitten into his basket, something that he would usually otherwise not ever have done. The bird would throw food out for him in a friendly gesture from his cage and this kitten would even eat seeds. Getting over excited when the kitten played with the much larger dog's tail, he would affectionately put up with it and even bark around behind him in a signal of warning to let the little kitten know whenever he was about to sit down. He was himself aware that he might crush him, as being arthritic moving had become difficult for him, thus causing his action of getting up and sitting down to have become awkward and heavy.
All was well until the lady of the house had to have hospital treatment and no longer could take the dog for a walk. I volunteered after work to help, as the dog was elderly and suffered with painful joints that made walking on the pavement difficult, the form of transport to the green was a wheeled wooden cart that I could pull along. After a while the lady regained her strength and there was no need for my help but during that time, each day the dog would anticipate my arrival and go to wait behind the door for me to take him on his unique kind of walk, even accurately seeming to know the time that I would get there.
It is said that elephants have a good memory and this anecdote will support that claim. A man in Africa for many years followed the activities of some wild elephants, talking to them and ensuring their good health. Sad to say, after an illness he passed away but the herd of Elephants who he had interacted with did not appear to forget his kindness. The herd tracked miles to locate his home, whereby they all reportedly stood together in a quiet circular format around his house at the time of his passing. The same herd regularly return to his home each year in a sort of pilgrimage and as if to say thank you.
There are countless stories of man’s best friend, the dog. In many of them the dog will show undivided loyalty to an owner. However this true story relates to an incident when an Alsation doing his job as a sniffer dog accompanied by a police owner chose to switch allegiance to a young girl sitting in a wheelchair. The dog at first started to sniff the girl but then upon doing this action, stopped, whined and then pulled back with eyes widened in what looked to be an expression of recognition. After that gesture, the dog behaved in a different sort of way, with the claws on his paws dug into either side of the chair and began trying to lick and nuzzle the young girl. What appeared to be a cute example of new found loyalty transformed in the next few minutes as the police dog handler tried to pull the dog away, but in response he turned snarling and baring his teeth. At a loss as for what to do the police officer called a colleague for help as together they had to drag the dog somewhat forcefully off the wheelchair. The girl continued her journey but could hear the cries and echoing howls of the distraught dog through the station and even on to the train. What was it about the girl that triggered an emotional response so powerful that the dog missed her company and indeed would have guarded her against all odds.
Loyalty is an interesting concept and once earned it has qualities that expand the emotional boundaries. There are many animals that people can develop a deeper connection to and certain astounding experiences that can come about as a consequence. Animals can have profound relationships with other animals of an entirely different species and humans can have extraordinary levels of trust and animal rapports that can question convention.
Unfortunately the kitten had a health condition that needed veterinary care. Having been separated early on from his mother, the what has to be described as feisty feline, did have a number of health complaints. Ranging from skin irritations to tummy problems, the poorly young cat had a lot to deal with and even more to say for himself!
Quite quickly, he had interaction noises particular to the person in the family. Little and lovely, he would purr and display content expressions when with my wife, mewl and mew in play games with my daughter, snooze and even snore when asleep in my mother in law’s slipper and growl at me, when we would wrestle together for fun.
Each day after work I visited the vets and spent time playing with the kitten. Then came the time that the kitten could be taken home. Still getting over certain digestive issues, the kitten needed a safe and experienced environment to thrive in. Sometimes a specific home environment suits a pet better and in this case fortunately a lady already known to us with extensive wildlife and feline knowledge offered to help out with the kitten. The lady already had a cat, dog and bird. The new home was ideal for the kitten that with the right amount of dedicated care and expertise developed into an even more strong minded cat.
That residence had an incredible sense of animal loyalty. Not just in the owners but the varied pets therein. The group had a passive tolerance of the playful character of the youngest member of the household, the older and wiser cat even took the kitten into his basket, something that he would usually otherwise not ever have done. The bird would throw food out for him in a friendly gesture from his cage and this kitten would even eat seeds. Getting over excited when the kitten played with the much larger dog's tail, he would affectionately put up with it and even bark around behind him in a signal of warning to let the little kitten know whenever he was about to sit down. He was himself aware that he might crush him, as being arthritic moving had become difficult for him, thus causing his action of getting up and sitting down to have become awkward and heavy.
All was well until the lady of the house had to have hospital treatment and no longer could take the dog for a walk. I volunteered after work to help, as the dog was elderly and suffered with painful joints that made walking on the pavement difficult, the form of transport to the green was a wheeled wooden cart that I could pull along. After a while the lady regained her strength and there was no need for my help but during that time, each day the dog would anticipate my arrival and go to wait behind the door for me to take him on his unique kind of walk, even accurately seeming to know the time that I would get there.
It is said that elephants have a good memory and this anecdote will support that claim. A man in Africa for many years followed the activities of some wild elephants, talking to them and ensuring their good health. Sad to say, after an illness he passed away but the herd of Elephants who he had interacted with did not appear to forget his kindness. The herd tracked miles to locate his home, whereby they all reportedly stood together in a quiet circular format around his house at the time of his passing. The same herd regularly return to his home each year in a sort of pilgrimage and as if to say thank you.
There are countless stories of man’s best friend, the dog. In many of them the dog will show undivided loyalty to an owner. However this true story relates to an incident when an Alsation doing his job as a sniffer dog accompanied by a police owner chose to switch allegiance to a young girl sitting in a wheelchair. The dog at first started to sniff the girl but then upon doing this action, stopped, whined and then pulled back with eyes widened in what looked to be an expression of recognition. After that gesture, the dog behaved in a different sort of way, with the claws on his paws dug into either side of the chair and began trying to lick and nuzzle the young girl. What appeared to be a cute example of new found loyalty transformed in the next few minutes as the police dog handler tried to pull the dog away, but in response he turned snarling and baring his teeth. At a loss as for what to do the police officer called a colleague for help as together they had to drag the dog somewhat forcefully off the wheelchair. The girl continued her journey but could hear the cries and echoing howls of the distraught dog through the station and even on to the train. What was it about the girl that triggered an emotional response so powerful that the dog missed her company and indeed would have guarded her against all odds.
Loyalty is an interesting concept and once earned it has qualities that expand the emotional boundaries. There are many animals that people can develop a deeper connection to and certain astounding experiences that can come about as a consequence. Animals can have profound relationships with other animals of an entirely different species and humans can have extraordinary levels of trust and animal rapports that can question convention.
May 7, 2023
End of Monarchy.
The most despicable occasion took place recently in the United Kingdom with the parading and fawning of people for the notorious adulterers Charles and Camilla. The so-called king Charles, the third by birth, claimed the entitlement to a crowning ceremony that cost his subjects over Two Hundred and Fifty Million Pounds, at a time when his subjects are under dire financial pressure and the NHS is on its knees. His disregard for their financial position should perhaps not be too surprising, when you consider the empathy shown for his first wife, widely known as the Queen of hearts, Diana.
Charles openly flaunted his activities with his mistress of that time, the arrogant Camilla. Someone who, it is well documented, took pleasure in taunting Princess Diana. I believe without doubt, the reports of the sustained attempts by Charles and Camila to diminish Diana’s mental health and this was an aim to push her over the edge.
The mother of Charles' two sons did not in my view deserve the treatment given out by the conniving pair. Having the sons take part in the, for me, questionable marriage reaches the height of betrayal.
Camilla Parker Bowles’s first husband was a Catholic and their children were brought up Catholic. Apart from stealing other people's husbands, using and manipulating, one might legitimately ask what faith does Camila believe in?
King Charles the Second had a mistress as well, in fact several of them, but he did not marry them, then claim that they are royalty and deserve the title of Queen.
When I give my commitment to Royalty, it is to something deserving that honour.
Charles the Third as a person has been on numerous occasions shown to be a hypocrite, he may have done one or two good things but they are in my opinion, outweighed by his lack of humanity for his fellow beings.
I object to even the government’s lack of fiscal control, easily allowing for a lavish Coronation and dragging out lengthy negotiations to pay for much needed NHS and society required workers. Where is the integrity in a PM who has sworn in as a protector for our country, who does not choose to comply with the needs of the people over the desires of a single unworthy person.
I sincerely believe the sooner the Monarchy is brought to an end, the more just and fair things will become. The United Kingdom should emphasise the united aspect that it has most usually in abundance and not become divided by the very person put there to achieve the opposite. I am not alone in this theory, with more countries choosing not to have a Monarch as the Head of State. It is an antiquated regime and one that seems to dictate unequal treatment. I was not so strong in my conviction until Charles III proved that his desire for self and grandeur outweighs that of the good for the people.
Charles openly flaunted his activities with his mistress of that time, the arrogant Camilla. Someone who, it is well documented, took pleasure in taunting Princess Diana. I believe without doubt, the reports of the sustained attempts by Charles and Camila to diminish Diana’s mental health and this was an aim to push her over the edge.
The mother of Charles' two sons did not in my view deserve the treatment given out by the conniving pair. Having the sons take part in the, for me, questionable marriage reaches the height of betrayal.
Camilla Parker Bowles’s first husband was a Catholic and their children were brought up Catholic. Apart from stealing other people's husbands, using and manipulating, one might legitimately ask what faith does Camila believe in?
King Charles the Second had a mistress as well, in fact several of them, but he did not marry them, then claim that they are royalty and deserve the title of Queen.
When I give my commitment to Royalty, it is to something deserving that honour.
Charles the Third as a person has been on numerous occasions shown to be a hypocrite, he may have done one or two good things but they are in my opinion, outweighed by his lack of humanity for his fellow beings.
I object to even the government’s lack of fiscal control, easily allowing for a lavish Coronation and dragging out lengthy negotiations to pay for much needed NHS and society required workers. Where is the integrity in a PM who has sworn in as a protector for our country, who does not choose to comply with the needs of the people over the desires of a single unworthy person.
I sincerely believe the sooner the Monarchy is brought to an end, the more just and fair things will become. The United Kingdom should emphasise the united aspect that it has most usually in abundance and not become divided by the very person put there to achieve the opposite. I am not alone in this theory, with more countries choosing not to have a Monarch as the Head of State. It is an antiquated regime and one that seems to dictate unequal treatment. I was not so strong in my conviction until Charles III proved that his desire for self and grandeur outweighs that of the good for the people.
April 30, 2023
Hazard to Health.
When searching for a horror story I stumbled on something that is not-fiction but the degree of its invasive harm is almost beyond belief. A well known weed killer company proclaims, after exhaustive tests, its product is harmless to humans. However the tests were not specific enough and radio tracking on rats indicated Glyphosate penetrates every cell of the animal's body. The practice of testing drugs on rats and then a larger mammal is a legal requirement before giving them to humans. It is strange that such a degree of caution does not appear to cover the production of foodstuffs and potentially harmful chemicals can be sprayed over crops and enter the food chain.
One company that I know of has stated that it will stop in 2023 the sale of its weed killer in the United Kingdom. That does not address the continuing use of Glyphosate in the food chain. The same company has paid out compensation to a man who claimed his cancer had been caused by the weed killer that contains Glyphosate. However the same company released a statement to say that it stands by its tests that showed no harm to humans.
Why worry about Glyphosate? It is only another chemical and the food industry uses millions of chemicals. Research scientist Stephanie Seneff has publicly claimed that Glyphosate destroys the healthy activity of the gut and promotes toxins that in turn contribute to a great many long term and fatal health conditions. It also terminates the body's ability to synthesise essential amino acids. She also suggests ways of possibly improving gut health.
The really frightening thing is Glyphosate is practically everywhere. Modern farming is increasingly using more and more on their crops and one could easily assume that whatever is being grown by non-organic farmers is drenched in Glyphosate.
It is worrying that companies that are involved in the production of weed killer are so reluctant to reinvestigate their products for safety and efficacy. Having to pay out large sums in compensation for life shortening events does not seem to have encouraged them to change their behaviour.
One company that I know of has stated that it will stop in 2023 the sale of its weed killer in the United Kingdom. That does not address the continuing use of Glyphosate in the food chain. The same company has paid out compensation to a man who claimed his cancer had been caused by the weed killer that contains Glyphosate. However the same company released a statement to say that it stands by its tests that showed no harm to humans.
Why worry about Glyphosate? It is only another chemical and the food industry uses millions of chemicals. Research scientist Stephanie Seneff has publicly claimed that Glyphosate destroys the healthy activity of the gut and promotes toxins that in turn contribute to a great many long term and fatal health conditions. It also terminates the body's ability to synthesise essential amino acids. She also suggests ways of possibly improving gut health.
The really frightening thing is Glyphosate is practically everywhere. Modern farming is increasingly using more and more on their crops and one could easily assume that whatever is being grown by non-organic farmers is drenched in Glyphosate.
It is worrying that companies that are involved in the production of weed killer are so reluctant to reinvestigate their products for safety and efficacy. Having to pay out large sums in compensation for life shortening events does not seem to have encouraged them to change their behaviour.
April 23, 2023
Important News.
It is not often that I am moved to be outraged by current events. The first is the spectacle of Charles and Camilla triumphant in their forthcoming lavish and extraordinarily comedic version of a coronation. Their treachery and deceit would not be out of place in a work of Shakespeare. The traditional theme of a fairy tale has the princess kiss a frog for it to change into a handsome prince. In this grotesque parody the prince and his future partner turn into an adulterous couple intent on parading themselves as an example of what deceit, conniving and over indulgences can gain.
Across the sea an equal tragedy is unfolding. The former president Trump, incited an attack on democracy. He consistently lied that the election had been stolen from him, hyped up hatred and caused dangerous distractions wherever possible. Having endorsed division and rule as a political ploy, monopolised on extreme ideologies and focused on a deviant culture of controversial social behaviour, can the world endure or even think about another onslaught of Trump news?
Meanwhile back in the UK a case of persistent bullying by Dominic Raab resulted in his resignation from being the Deputy Leader of the government. Did he apologise to those he bullied? No, he arrogantly wrote a lengthy article claiming he was the victim of a concerted effort to damage his career. His response in action by itself can only confirm the validity of the inquiry into his bullying actions. It was extremely disappointing that the Prime Minister showed more concern over Dominic Raab leaving rather than the reason that he had to resign.
They do say that expressing oneself can be a therapeutic experience, and doing so pertinently and positively can leave you in all the better a position for it. Now I feel a little lighter that I have shared my pent up feelings. Of course it would be much better if I could look forward to celebrating the Coronation of two worthy occupants as the Head of State.
Across the sea an equal tragedy is unfolding. The former president Trump, incited an attack on democracy. He consistently lied that the election had been stolen from him, hyped up hatred and caused dangerous distractions wherever possible. Having endorsed division and rule as a political ploy, monopolised on extreme ideologies and focused on a deviant culture of controversial social behaviour, can the world endure or even think about another onslaught of Trump news?
Meanwhile back in the UK a case of persistent bullying by Dominic Raab resulted in his resignation from being the Deputy Leader of the government. Did he apologise to those he bullied? No, he arrogantly wrote a lengthy article claiming he was the victim of a concerted effort to damage his career. His response in action by itself can only confirm the validity of the inquiry into his bullying actions. It was extremely disappointing that the Prime Minister showed more concern over Dominic Raab leaving rather than the reason that he had to resign.
They do say that expressing oneself can be a therapeutic experience, and doing so pertinently and positively can leave you in all the better a position for it. Now I feel a little lighter that I have shared my pent up feelings. Of course it would be much better if I could look forward to celebrating the Coronation of two worthy occupants as the Head of State.
April 16, 2023
Interesting Creatures.
Of all the things from my school days, the one very interesting activity for me was finding contrasting facts to the orthodox view of how things are. On leaving school and a good time later I started to notice how many creatures, at different times, did not quite fit a designated nomenclature. From the Archeopteryx to the Sea Slug, they have unique differences. Possibly the Immortal Jellyfish should head the list for an individual creature category due to the length of time of survival. I was quite surprised to discover that the humble spider, as a species, lived one hundred and fifty million years before the Dinosaurs. Human existence is not quite on the same scale as the earliest forms that appeared 2.4 million years ago and was named homo habilis and nicknamed Handy Man.
Sea creatures include a huge array of beings. If we leave the water for a moment and become acquainted with Pakicetus a goat sized creature with legs that walked on land yet was the forerunner to the family of marine animals that include dolphins and whales. While we are on dry land, it is a good time to notice the Lungfish, living fossils that leave the water for an excursion on dry land. The Mudskipper is an amphibious creature that thrives in air and water, and exhibits both legs and tail. To complete the journey of life from sea to land, three hundred and seventy million years ago lived a fish that had four legs for movement on dry land. It has a nearly unpronounceable name of Ichthyostega.
There are many sea creatures that share the name fish but belong to other classifications such as the Starfish, Silverfish, Cuttlefish, Hagfish, Devilfish and Jellyfish, to name just a few. The fact that some creatures developed the ability to move from sea to land and then some others took the route from land to sea should not be too surprising as life may have emerged initially from the sea.
I can not close without mentioning some fascinating creatures such as the Octopus that is highly intelligent and has three hearts. It also has a copper based blood system that is blue and a dual function of sustaining life and acting as a poison if discharged against a predator. It has eight arms with independent nervous centres as well as a central brain. It has an ability to camouflage itself with not only colour but texture of its skin is second to none.
The Duck Billed Platypus is placed in the order of Monotremata. One of its characteristics is that it is an egg laying mammal that provides milk for their young. It lives in the water as well as dry land. It does not have a stomach and it has a poisonous spur on its hind leg. It also has webbed feet and is covered in fur.
There is no end to the interesting facts and diversity of life. Apart from the sad fact that a significant number of creatures each day become extinct, there is an even larger number of new creatures that are being discovered. Nature for now seems to be a continuous process of propagating the world with varied life and long may it continue.
Sea creatures include a huge array of beings. If we leave the water for a moment and become acquainted with Pakicetus a goat sized creature with legs that walked on land yet was the forerunner to the family of marine animals that include dolphins and whales. While we are on dry land, it is a good time to notice the Lungfish, living fossils that leave the water for an excursion on dry land. The Mudskipper is an amphibious creature that thrives in air and water, and exhibits both legs and tail. To complete the journey of life from sea to land, three hundred and seventy million years ago lived a fish that had four legs for movement on dry land. It has a nearly unpronounceable name of Ichthyostega.
There are many sea creatures that share the name fish but belong to other classifications such as the Starfish, Silverfish, Cuttlefish, Hagfish, Devilfish and Jellyfish, to name just a few. The fact that some creatures developed the ability to move from sea to land and then some others took the route from land to sea should not be too surprising as life may have emerged initially from the sea.
I can not close without mentioning some fascinating creatures such as the Octopus that is highly intelligent and has three hearts. It also has a copper based blood system that is blue and a dual function of sustaining life and acting as a poison if discharged against a predator. It has eight arms with independent nervous centres as well as a central brain. It has an ability to camouflage itself with not only colour but texture of its skin is second to none.
The Duck Billed Platypus is placed in the order of Monotremata. One of its characteristics is that it is an egg laying mammal that provides milk for their young. It lives in the water as well as dry land. It does not have a stomach and it has a poisonous spur on its hind leg. It also has webbed feet and is covered in fur.
There is no end to the interesting facts and diversity of life. Apart from the sad fact that a significant number of creatures each day become extinct, there is an even larger number of new creatures that are being discovered. Nature for now seems to be a continuous process of propagating the world with varied life and long may it continue.
