Terry Lloyd's Blog, page 17

August 21, 2022

Working Democracy.

Over a great many years mankind has struggled to find the most fair and just way to organise itself. At first, there were small separate groups led by a chieftain that in time were amalgamated or conquered to become nations. The problem with this was the head chief might have been good or bad and could not be changed unless they died or were slain. The populace had no say in the everyday running of things so a structure of representatives was formed and a constitution that stayed regardless of who was in control as the head chief. A new concept of voting for the head chief evolved and democracy was born.

However, as often idealistic in theory and not in practice, this truthful depiction does not end there. Certain candidates for head chief were individuals that did not share the concept of democracy and once elected, were not willing to abide by its rules. They manipulated the truth to conform with keeping them in power and deliberately spread false accusations to discredit any opposition to their position.

Once in power, they attempted to manipulate the constitution to ensure their continued tenure as head chief. Control could corrupt and even democracy as an idea, has often been put in jeopardy.

These individuals who, albeit acknowledge that agenda for controlling power or not, can be a part of almost any political system. They are not limited to one country or one time period. Since mankind has tried to govern itself justly, there has always been the threat of dictatorship.

It is only by the actions of the populace to recognise and ameliorate the situation, before it is too late, that true working democracy can win.
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Published on August 21, 2022 15:33

August 14, 2022

Viruses.

Viruses are likely to be forever present in everyday life. Learning how to lead a near normal life while adapting to the latest medical advice can be thought of as a constant occupation. One important focal feature is maintaining and strengthening one's immunity seems key to the outcome of any infection.

The first recorded virus infection in humans was in 1901 when the yellow fever was thought to be transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. However the original source may have been much earlier than that when in the 1600 slave traders transported from Africa potentially infected slaves to the western world.

Viruses need a host to take over manipulation of reproducing copies of itself. Viruses can be constructed with either a RNA or DNA nucleus. It is also a natural example of nature's adaptation to negative forces, as once one strain of virus is limited, this spurs a natural adaptation for future growth of the virus.

On a personal note, although not quite in the mosquito class, as a young boy I was keen to experience the outside world. I persuaded my parents on one hot night to drape a tarpaulin from the garden fence and over a camp bed, that would allow me to sleep. Little did I realise that I would not be alone. There was a constant buzzing around my head and ears of gnats that were intent on biting me. My parents had a friend visiting that evening and they with pride showed what they thought was a sleeping son but without their knowing I had crept back inside to my own gnat free bed.

Viruses are usually associated with harming their hosts, however there are also good viruses that have a positive effect by helping the host's immune system to repel harmful bacteria and other harmful viruses. So with viruses you really do have the good, bad and the ugly. It is always therefore useful to stay knowledgeable and keep your immune system strong. As with many problems, prevention is definitely preferable to most experiences or even spreading a virus to anyone else.
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Published on August 14, 2022 08:21

August 7, 2022

Spreading Goodwill.

Taking positive steps to ease the way of others is a noble aspiration. One of the ways is simple but effective. On occasions, opportunity may arise whereby a kind action is made with no anticipation of reward, apart from asking that in turn a similar gesture might be offered to others. This sort of spreading goodwill can have no end to its reward, variety or fulfilment.

On noting useful tips and helpful advice, I am reminded of the short saying, If you can say nothing good about somebody then say nothing at all. It is amazing that despite the multitude of events and experiences felt globally, the art of good diplomacy is still widely recognised as to keep your friends close and your potential enemies even closer. It is perhaps somewhat ironic then that leading members of various governments time and time again seem unaware or reluctant to exhibit a public display of this maxim.

Before seeking revenge, digging two graves is a sombre thought but trying to turn the clock back is fraught with impending calamities. Like many wise proverbs and comments, it is difficult to establish an original source of the idea but I think you can agree that the concept is crucial to many a thought out vengeful idea or venture.

Another maxim is the golden rule that you might have heard of or even taken to heart before, and that is to always treat others in the best possible way, that you would enjoy yourself. That is of course presuming you are meeting the criteria of convention and not making too pedantic a point about it.

In general, all life is of a limited and precious time, so why not make it a pleasant journey for as many other people as possible. Generosity and kindness have within them their own rewards in mind and in that of the real world. Spread goodwill as often and far as you can, because kindness is sometimes in short supply. Even the smallest of gestures can do such a lot and provide positivity when and where it is needed the most.
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Published on August 07, 2022 16:19

July 31, 2022

Interesting Recollections.

As the years pass, it is memories that can be good and bad. A highlight of my former school years was the celebration of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth the Second. We all received a decorated mug marking the occasion. The young queen was watched with many pairs of eyes following her every move and since many might say that she has strenuously committed her whole being to bringing prestige and admiration to the position of the Head of State. I have some concern that future heads of state will have some difficulty in matching her ability.

Who does not like seeing a film? One of my first memories was as a toddler, being taken to see Alice in Wonderland. It might just have been one of those things, that the only seats available in the cinema were very close to the huge screen. The sound and dynamic action left a vivid memory of the Queen of Hearts demanding, off with her head! Even now, I am haunted by the Mad Hatters' unbirthday party and every now and again, the Cheshire Cat and that identifiable grin will appear in the vague recollections of my mind.

Years ago I was sat on the bus on the way home, when I accidentally overheard two ladies sitting opposite me say “did you know J F Kennedy has been shot?” Since that day there has always been controversy over what really took place on that fateful day.

Thinking about memories and controversy, there is always the Flat Earth and Landing on the Moon theories, as well as the question of are there really any Aliens and unidentified flying objects out there? I think any or all of these topics will always be an interesting constant point of conversation.

While the context of happy memories might vary and what constitutes for them alter according to people, places and time, the recollections themselves can always be worthwhile. Invest in making significant memories and motivate recollection of them, because encounters can have all sorts of positive influences in what you learn, appreciate or go on to do about them.
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Published on July 31, 2022 14:58

Interesting Recollections.

As the years pass, it is memories that can be good and bad. A highlight of my former school years was the celebration of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth the Second. We all received a decorated mug marking the occasion. The young queen was watched with many pairs of eyes following her every move and since many might say that she has strenuously committed her whole being to bringing prestige and admiration to the position of the Head of State. I have some concern that future heads of state will have some difficulty in matching her ability.

Who does not like seeing a film? One of my first memories was as a toddler, being taken to see Alice in Wonderland. It might just have been one of those things, that the only seats available in the cinema were very close to the huge screen. The sound and dynamic action left a vivid memory of the Queen of Hearts demanding, off with her head! Even now, I am haunted by the Mad Hatters' unbirthday party and every now and again, the Cheshire Cat and that identifiable grin will appear in the vague recollections of my mind.

Years ago I was sat on the bus on the way home, when I accidentally overheard two ladies sitting opposite me say “did you know J F Kennedy has been shot?” Since that day there has always been controversy over what really took place on that fateful day.

Thinking about memories and controversy, there is always the Flat Earth and Landing on the Moon theories, as well as the question of are there really any Aliens and unidentified flying objects out there? I think any or all of these topics will always be an interesting constant point of conversation.

While the context of happy memories might vary and what constitutes for them alter according to people, places and time, the recollections themselves can always be worthwhile. Invest in making significant memories and motivate recollection of them, because encounters can have all sorts of positive influences in what you learn, appreciate or go on to do about them.
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Published on July 31, 2022 14:58

July 24, 2022

Flight of Imagination.

Imagination and contemplation are an interesting combination. It can aid one at wondering, what other life if given the choice, would you choose to be involved in? Would you plump for living the longest, such as the Giant Tortoise, that is reputed to live over one hundred years. Then there is the Immortal Jellyfish that has the ability to rejuvenate itself by returning to its former younger self endlessly over and over again.

How about an intelligent Octopus with the innate ability to know what hole one can safely pass through. Not only can the Octopus convey a useful survival recognition but with eight arms and nine brains, plus three hearts, they really are prepared for most experiences. Reputed to be incredibly house proud, they even keep a clean and personal homely environment and also have a remarkable ability to, in a flash, camouflage themselves with the background colour and features of wherever they may be at that specific moment.

The animal kingdom is divided into predators and prey. It may seem prudent to choose being a powerful predator, but life is forever twisting and turning. Even the strongest animal can be brought down by a virus, of which there are millions and appear to have been around since life began.

Insects may not be everybody's choice but the Cockroach is such a hardy creature, it is quite possible it could outlast the human race.

Just imagine being a Caterpillar crawling along a leaf, before that journey as a chrysalis and after due time emerging with beautiful, colourful, patterned wings. Ready to take part in life's creativity and flying here and there enjoying the sunshine, would be only some of the new discoveries that could open up to this natural and astounding transformation.

Whatever your choice of life might be, I think living it to its maximum, can be the only way to go. Life, whether long or short, should be made the most out of and being aware of others along the way may be a chance for mutual benefit. It might be a flight of imagination but it can truly inspire, and even motivate further thought and understanding.
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Published on July 24, 2022 15:32

July 17, 2022

Understanding Creation.

What comes to your mind, when you think about the idea of creation. One of the persistent questions that can cause much heated debate, is that very same concept of creation. In my own mind the question is quite simple, and it became far easier to comprehend once I understood that there are two modes of creation. There is first natural creation and then agent creation. It is important not to confuse the method of how they operate.

Natural creation has no specific intention. In fact it might not appear to be a creation at all. The Moon is a great example of natural creation, as it is a result of a collision of a small Mars sized planet hitting Earth, and the resulting debris coerced into the Moon.

For me, Life formed on Earth because of the suitable conditions and it would not matter where or even if it happened. Over a great period of time there have been massive changes in the form of life and the environment on Earth. The first life did not need oxygen, and due to unintended circumstances, a process took place that greatly increased the oxygen that subsequently altered the direction of future life forms. A dramatic effect occurred, when by accident separate independent cells formed in a beneficial union for multi celled life, such as mitochondria in animals and chloroplasts in vegetation.

If Natural Creation has no purposeful intention, then you guessed it, Agent creation is specific and has intention. This definition includes tools and structures intended for protection and comfort. People often demand natural creation to act like agent creation, not understanding that natural creation has no intended result.

Understanding creation can be a highly personalised view of science meets discovery. What excites you about the scientific progress and origins of life forms? For me, I love to wonder at the scope and extent of adaptability that has come with time. Exhibited in both animals and humans, is a huge array of coping mechanisms and thrive to survive abilities that have varied and improved from their own point of conception. Even simply in improving how creation can result in success, it appears that science and life can work together, enhancing and ensuring the best methods possible for survival.
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Published on July 17, 2022 15:15

July 10, 2022

Humour.

Humour is such an interesting phenomenon. Have you ever asked yourself, why is the first reaction when seeing somebody slip on a banana skin, to laugh? To top that off, when watching black and white Laurel and Hardy clips so many of us often roar with laughter at the mischievous mishaps.

My own personal experience of something similar, in that of the unintended spectacle, took place at school. During an exercise test I had to run straight at a Vaulting Box. Just before it was placed, the springboard. Intent on an impressive demonstration I was brought back to earth quite literally, as my toes had caught under the top padding of the box. I took a rather impressive, if not intended nose dive into the mat on the other side. A line of my fellow classmates that were waiting their turn were doubled up with laughter at the view of my legs protruding above the box, flailing away before collapsing on the mat.

Humour is not just a mystery but also infectious. How often is it that joining a group of people, they may be laughing, already a smile may be forming from the newcomers in anticipation of the joke.

Having the ability to judge the right time to cause a smile is not only useful but can lead to a career as an entertainer. Over the years there have been many gifted personalities whose presence on stage have had the audience crying tears of laughter.

Thinking of past comedy sketches can often brighten the day. It can be a means to motivate one to see the funny in different situations, to not take things too seriously and try to find that bit of hidden humour.
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Published on July 10, 2022 15:38

July 3, 2022

Favourite Pets.

If you want to start a hot debate, then look no further than that ageless and significant question of what is your favourite animal. Although for years people have had numerous pets of cats and dogs as well as various furry and feathered other creatures, there has always been a strong dispute as to which makes the better pet.

My own experience is that I have found dogs more often tend to respond in a more commutative fashion than cats. With their wagging tails and affectionate licks of approval, activities performed with dogs can be full of positive expression. My closest rapport with an extremely clever, playful cat was a kitten that loved taking on the demeanour of a lion and literally snarled and roared at me as I gently played and wrestled with it. I have had two giant rabbits that lived for a long time but were rather indifferent to me. As a little boy I helped my father with an aviary of budgerigars which were being bred. I was given one to keep as a pet. Unfortunately trying to teach it to talk or respond to commands was a dismal failure.

My daughter one day asked if I could take a rabbit to school for the other children to see it. This I did and while there, one of the children had brought his pet snake who found a new temporary home under my daughter’s jumper. Fortunately the uninvited visitor found its own way out from under her sleeve, but it did cause a bit or minor mayhem.

Some animals can take on another role of not just being a pet but a vital help in day to day living. Of course I am talking about guide dogs and carer dogs, and also search and rescue dogs.

When it comes to horses, man's relationship can often have no bounds for mutual adoration. One Roman caesar called Caligula loved one of his horses so much that he planned to make it a consular or so rumour states. However over the years man and his horse have formed close ties, it has been evident on numerous occasions and in different cultures that each can depend on the other. Hugely influential in displays of strength and capability, it is on horseback that many wars and battles have been fought, multiple civilisations have been helped to build cities and as an early status symbol empires have been assisted in purposes of transporting trade or acquiring valuable achievements. The horse has throughout the ages been a constant in providing a way to prepare fields and carry crops. Horses as pets can range from that of more naturally wild variety, or bred in assisting the keen rider in accomplishing smaller feats, all the way to a prized racing kind or show jumping asset and across a vast array of scenarios have built unique relationships with their human caregivers and riders.

Pets have featured in many life and death situations making the owner forever grateful to their particular animal companion. It does make you think twice because remarkable have been the many instances that have seen pets take on a very unassuming hero status and be them rabbit, ferret or even bird, their actions in saving a life or lives has been absolutely astounding. It is with no reward in mind and no award anticipation that these animals have made their heroic intentions evident.
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Published on July 03, 2022 11:41

June 26, 2022

Fascinating Facts.

Putting it broadly into a term of expression, types of creation in everyday life can differ. Geographically, there is the continuous continental drift of forming new land masses. Biologically and historically even human beings have changed in anatomy via dimensions, proportions and capabilities.

Every single day, it is estimated that throughout the entire visible universe there are four hundred million stars born? You might like to know that is equal to four thousand eight hundred stars per second. Not only that, but there are a slightly less number of stars that have reached the end of their life, and some of those dead stars explode releasing material that is the basis for new stars, planets and life. Life and death are of course all part of creation.

As a little boy, the idea of life beginning had fascinated me and I had deliberately created a home for daphnia. Unbeknown to me, what I had achieved occurs naturally everywhere in the countryside, in springs and ponds. At that time I had not known that fascinating fact and I thought the discovery of such a process was immense. I was an absolute scientific genius because I knew how to fuel the power of creation. A short while after my somewhat short brush with brilliance, it was with disappointment that I realised what was happening. I was simply creating a suitable environment for the fleas to squat in and they must already have begun life somewhere else in the surrounding area.

The thing about fascination is that it does not have to end and subsequently more thoughts and finds came to me. Why should Earth have life? Is it because there is a suitable amount of environment for it to flourish? The next thought I had was associated with if there is life on other planets? Obviously life needs a viable environment to begin and continue it. However on Earth life is fragile and over a long time fascinating facts about it have included information on it having suffered drastic reduction and change of form and direction.

So as a child I had not discovered the secret of creating new life but had glimpsed the ability to comprehend fascinating facts. A brief introduction that included a fascination for multiple varieties of natural life and thoughts on the astounding revelations about its many forms.

Fascinating facts can capture the mind and become the starting point for intrigue, learning and even some unexpected answers. I think that it can be an awesome way to blend science, history and geography or to even open up new thinking and debates on potential possibilities for the future.
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Published on June 26, 2022 16:16