Reading about scientific advances on the arxiv blog and the MIT home page. wow, I'm amazed and excited about advances in quantum computing, bio-genetic medicine and a growing understanding of the strangeness of the universe. If ever anyone were to say that anything is possible, I'd be hard pressed to argue about it.
Religion is another interesting area. More and more were beginning to understand that religion is a structure that has evolved over the age to serve the needs of an evolving human population, complete with it's strengths, weakness's and foibles. Perhaps a vestige of times past when survival was paramount and even then it adapted to changing needs, war times, peace times.
That brings me to our current state of affairs. We have perhaps taken the wrong path and tack in this country by playing follow the leader. Primarily as those in power have used abject fear to control the minds and hearts of people who now have trouble thinking their way out of what used to be considered common sense issues and problems. In times past many used the mixture of emotions, compassion, empathy and intellect to find a blend of ideas and solutions to the problems that plagued them. In particular many indigenous societies. (Incidentally, ask someone who knows where the constitution of this country comes from.) Most indigenous people had worked out long ago how to live in relative peace and harmony.
but I digress. Technology and research may help us to pull our heads out of our collective asses. as, and if we learn more about the truth of our shared, (and it is shared) reality we may begin to understand that we are not only linked to one another, but to the universe and the forces that permeate it.
Pidgie's pages Headline Animator
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Politics andParties
Spent time at a rally nice party last night and had some great discussions. Health care came up as usual. Its interesting when you meet people who are not full of fear and willing to take a look at alternatives to the status quo. as far as i can tell, 9and most behavioral researchers will verify) fear makes one unable to think or do any kind of critical analysis. So what is the result of millions of people who are unable to think, something akin to mass hysteria, I'm not certain, but looking at behavior in a crowd when fear sets in... well there seems to be some interesting parallels there.
Is this fear a normal thing given the circumstances or is it manufactured? how does one overcome it? An even more important observation is that we as a nation, (and i suppose most nations) use fear, propaganda to demonize people, ideas and concepts that threaten the status quo. Take for example the Roman Empire's use of the Christan religion as a tool to control the masses. Constantine, (Emperor Constantine the Great, was born on Feb. 27, c. 280) A pretty bald faced ploy, Even the concept of hell, as I understand it was a by product of the need to have a carrot for the stick of everlasting life.
Are we all the product of societies that that use our natural fear of the unknown and the different to control us. look around and see what type of controls we have in place, often religion, belief systems regarding the inherent goodness of the wealthy Vs the poor, Caste systems, Class systems and so on.
What baffles me is the in ability of most of us to look, just for a second at the possibility that other ideas might be as valid as our own. I remember discussions of Jung's regarding ego death. Only when one is able to shed the trapping of personality can one see clearly the nature of reality. It would seem that perhaps large scale initiation of psychedelics would be in order.
Fear, what good is it exactly. Don't know, but it seems that we ought to look at ways to grasp the damaging effects of fear and face up to it. Of course I guess that's an intensely personal journey and one that I'll probably never convince any one to take. Some paths you have to decide to go down on your own.
Vern
Is this fear a normal thing given the circumstances or is it manufactured? how does one overcome it? An even more important observation is that we as a nation, (and i suppose most nations) use fear, propaganda to demonize people, ideas and concepts that threaten the status quo. Take for example the Roman Empire's use of the Christan religion as a tool to control the masses. Constantine, (Emperor Constantine the Great, was born on Feb. 27, c. 280) A pretty bald faced ploy, Even the concept of hell, as I understand it was a by product of the need to have a carrot for the stick of everlasting life.
Are we all the product of societies that that use our natural fear of the unknown and the different to control us. look around and see what type of controls we have in place, often religion, belief systems regarding the inherent goodness of the wealthy Vs the poor, Caste systems, Class systems and so on.
What baffles me is the in ability of most of us to look, just for a second at the possibility that other ideas might be as valid as our own. I remember discussions of Jung's regarding ego death. Only when one is able to shed the trapping of personality can one see clearly the nature of reality. It would seem that perhaps large scale initiation of psychedelics would be in order.
Fear, what good is it exactly. Don't know, but it seems that we ought to look at ways to grasp the damaging effects of fear and face up to it. Of course I guess that's an intensely personal journey and one that I'll probably never convince any one to take. Some paths you have to decide to go down on your own.
Vern
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Health care Madness
"And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up." [New Test.]
And so begins my quest to find the spirit of giving in America. Do we remember these words still? Each day I meet people in my comings and goings, I smile at them they smile back. So often we stop and have a pleasant conversation. Occasionally we stumble across the topic of health care. Things can get interesting then. Many people seem to against it and when I question them a bit more the argument's I'm hearing are the agreements that are used so often in the media. The surprising thing is these same arguments, higher taxes, euthanasia for the elderly, recently are the arguments that are are blasted 24-7 by not only the conservative media, but the mainstream, oft considered "left of center" media. I feel as though the media is so enthralled by the spectacle that is unfolding before them they can't help them selves. The feeding frenzy that people talk about seems to be unfolding.
Is this the Stockholm Syndrome? A psychological response often seen in hostages, the hostage exhibits signs of loyalty to the hostage-taker, regardless of the danger or risk in which they have been placed. What appear to me to be honest and decent people, professed Christians who seem to have forgotten the basic principles of good will and compassion towards our fellow humans.
I called to mind of the fact that in 1855 the Canadian government at the urging of Jesuits banned the Potlatch. We in America did the same shortly after wards. This redistribution of wealth, (food, clothing, live stock and so on) ensured the continued existence and prosperity of all tribal members. This was to an extent the way of early settlers also, or so legend would have us believe. were those early pioneers, merchants and such caring and compassionate in our not too distant past? Perhaps it was just a nice story spread around to make us all feel better about ourselves as we suffered under the effects of settlement and a government already grown rich, fat and uncaring. It may depend on who you read, as past historians seem to differ on the largesse and concern shown to our fellow humans in our nations past.
Have we existed under first the hard ships of nation and the fears that were endured for so long that the compassion we give lip service to is truly only a myth? I still continue to believe that we are a people who care. I am at this moment feeling that we have completely lost our way though. We care, we send monies to charities, while many in said organizations profit from the wealth we bestow on them. At the same time we have difficulty sharing our spaces in our churches with our brothers and sister who are a little different in appearance. Why do we need the separation from others, what fear do the different incite in our psyches?
I like so many others am confused by the displays of charity and decency that take place every day, only to be canceled out by the mean spiritedness of people who are parroting back what was said on Fox news about the latest wild notion regarding the need to make sure we all are treated equally to decent health care. Sacrifice for others is the greatest gift we can give. I don't know where it went or when it became so unfashionable. Perhaps it's just we have all been scared by the bogeyman of privation. I believe that there are those in power, wealthy, immature and fearful who would make us believe the act of giving is synonymous with being made the fool, being dispossessed of what is rightfully ours. I remember my dad saying to me one day, "you know, were not even guaranteed our next breath!" So I wonder where did it all go, this spirit of giving and caring that once seemed to so define us as a nation. Do I still see it in the eyes of those I meet, or am I seeing the confidence of a child who believes that the Great Fathers in Washington will take care of them if only they obey the commands.
We need to be responsible citizens, husbands, wives, lovers and friends or what ever. We must stop listening to others and search our hearts for what is right and find the courage to do it. Remember it is easier to hate then to love, easier to push others away than to pull them in close.
Yes we need health care,we need to care for others, we need to grow up. we mustreject the Father in Washinton and begin to think for ourselves as we may all find that some day the results of not caring will to too great a burden to bear. Incidentally I believe that a wise leader is a good one. So, yes for the record I agree with Obama. We need to take care of one another, health care for all is a step in the right direction.
And so begins my quest to find the spirit of giving in America. Do we remember these words still? Each day I meet people in my comings and goings, I smile at them they smile back. So often we stop and have a pleasant conversation. Occasionally we stumble across the topic of health care. Things can get interesting then. Many people seem to against it and when I question them a bit more the argument's I'm hearing are the agreements that are used so often in the media. The surprising thing is these same arguments, higher taxes, euthanasia for the elderly, recently are the arguments that are are blasted 24-7 by not only the conservative media, but the mainstream, oft considered "left of center" media. I feel as though the media is so enthralled by the spectacle that is unfolding before them they can't help them selves. The feeding frenzy that people talk about seems to be unfolding.
Is this the Stockholm Syndrome? A psychological response often seen in hostages, the hostage exhibits signs of loyalty to the hostage-taker, regardless of the danger or risk in which they have been placed. What appear to me to be honest and decent people, professed Christians who seem to have forgotten the basic principles of good will and compassion towards our fellow humans.
I called to mind of the fact that in 1855 the Canadian government at the urging of Jesuits banned the Potlatch. We in America did the same shortly after wards. This redistribution of wealth, (food, clothing, live stock and so on) ensured the continued existence and prosperity of all tribal members. This was to an extent the way of early settlers also, or so legend would have us believe. were those early pioneers, merchants and such caring and compassionate in our not too distant past? Perhaps it was just a nice story spread around to make us all feel better about ourselves as we suffered under the effects of settlement and a government already grown rich, fat and uncaring. It may depend on who you read, as past historians seem to differ on the largesse and concern shown to our fellow humans in our nations past.
Have we existed under first the hard ships of nation and the fears that were endured for so long that the compassion we give lip service to is truly only a myth? I still continue to believe that we are a people who care. I am at this moment feeling that we have completely lost our way though. We care, we send monies to charities, while many in said organizations profit from the wealth we bestow on them. At the same time we have difficulty sharing our spaces in our churches with our brothers and sister who are a little different in appearance. Why do we need the separation from others, what fear do the different incite in our psyches?
I like so many others am confused by the displays of charity and decency that take place every day, only to be canceled out by the mean spiritedness of people who are parroting back what was said on Fox news about the latest wild notion regarding the need to make sure we all are treated equally to decent health care. Sacrifice for others is the greatest gift we can give. I don't know where it went or when it became so unfashionable. Perhaps it's just we have all been scared by the bogeyman of privation. I believe that there are those in power, wealthy, immature and fearful who would make us believe the act of giving is synonymous with being made the fool, being dispossessed of what is rightfully ours. I remember my dad saying to me one day, "you know, were not even guaranteed our next breath!" So I wonder where did it all go, this spirit of giving and caring that once seemed to so define us as a nation. Do I still see it in the eyes of those I meet, or am I seeing the confidence of a child who believes that the Great Fathers in Washington will take care of them if only they obey the commands.
We need to be responsible citizens, husbands, wives, lovers and friends or what ever. We must stop listening to others and search our hearts for what is right and find the courage to do it. Remember it is easier to hate then to love, easier to push others away than to pull them in close.
Yes we need health care,we need to care for others, we need to grow up. we mustreject the Father in Washinton and begin to think for ourselves as we may all find that some day the results of not caring will to too great a burden to bear. Incidentally I believe that a wise leader is a good one. So, yes for the record I agree with Obama. We need to take care of one another, health care for all is a step in the right direction.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Upcoming stories in Topeka Magazine!
I have two new stories in the next issue of Topeka Magazine. One is a profile of Dr. Joanne Altman of Washburn university. She makes trips to Africa to study primates and cultures there. The other is Farm Fresh eggs in the Topeka area. Healthy, round and yummy. pick up an issue. Ought to be hitting the news stands around the first week of September.
It's a nice magazine and worth while for the city of Topeka. I think it's one of the better promotional vehicles we have that works.
It's a nice magazine and worth while for the city of Topeka. I think it's one of the better promotional vehicles we have that works.
Drinking beer and talking politics with Canadians
I spent a couple of months in Calgary (Alberta province) a couple of years back. I had the opportunity to talk to a wide range of people. We discussed the relation between America and Canada, health care, history and a range of subjects during the time I was there.
A number of things impressed me. In talking with the neighborhood regulars (drinking beer and roving from yard to yard) I was impressed by the knowledge of even the most regular seeming Canadian. People from teachers, writers to construction workers exhibited a really good grasp of history, politics and various subjects. I had asked my friend, (a writer for a radio station) why everyone seemed so knowledgeable regarding a wide range of subjects, his reply was. "Here most of the schools go out of their way to emphasize history, both ours and the history of the United States since we are both neighbors and so economically and historically tied together." that worked for me. At the time health care was a much discussed topic as it is now.
During these back yard forays into politics and beer, (Canadian or American brews) I listened for the tell tale signs of people disenchanted with their government and it's handling of health care issues. Never was the voice of discontent sounded with regards to the handling of health care. Maybe I was in a place where every one was happy, I don't know. I do remember that money to various Provence's was discussed, as there seemed a grudge regarding some getting unfair shares of oil shale revenue or cattle people profiting unfairly. Still, I did not hear any complaints about health care. I finally asked my bud if people seemed OK with their health care and he said to me, 'yeah, we love it.' Yes, I asked if they had to wait an unduly long time to be treated and was told that if you had a minor injury, you were instructed in what to do about it and might wait a week to be seen. Serious injuries and illnesses were treated immediately. So, according to some U.S. media and politicians, what am I missing here?
Another really amazing story. While driving down a main street in Calgary with my hosts in the back seat one day, they started screaming (literally) for me to slow down. I was 200 feet or more from the intersection, there were pedestrians ready to cross. Apparently, up there in the cold north, the pedestrian reigns supreme. Unlike much of the U.S. crossing the street is not considered an act of overt defiance of possible death. Folks here respect the man (or women) on foot, rather surprising for me.
So... my experience was one of a people who were satisfied for the most part with government. A people who didn't seem to feel as though their government was some twisted Machiavellian entity, never to be trusted. In other words a pretty happy well adjusted group with few worries.
Then I came back to the U.S. The phrase, "wrapped kinda' tight" came to mind. I like the people around me here at home, but there seems to be constant fear and worry about some thing or another all the time. As an ex news reporter, I remember that old adage, "If it bleeds, it leads," some thing I was never quite comfortable with. So I wondered, what is the real understanding of the reality most of us here in America have of the world, (our own) and the global community? What's yours and is it real or is it media and politician induced. Have you really asked your self that question?
Maybe we ought to demand responsibility and accountability in media. Maybe reading is something that needs to more common place. I don't know. I do know from traveling to other parts of the world that many are just as good as where we live and some are actually better. Does that give us something to shoot for? Yes Edna, Canada is not just that funny country to the north, but a real nation with very nice people who seemed full of common sense, good will and decency towards their fellows. and they had pretty good beer to boot. I liked it, and you can see the Northern Lights from time to time, Eh!
A number of things impressed me. In talking with the neighborhood regulars (drinking beer and roving from yard to yard) I was impressed by the knowledge of even the most regular seeming Canadian. People from teachers, writers to construction workers exhibited a really good grasp of history, politics and various subjects. I had asked my friend, (a writer for a radio station) why everyone seemed so knowledgeable regarding a wide range of subjects, his reply was. "Here most of the schools go out of their way to emphasize history, both ours and the history of the United States since we are both neighbors and so economically and historically tied together." that worked for me. At the time health care was a much discussed topic as it is now.
During these back yard forays into politics and beer, (Canadian or American brews) I listened for the tell tale signs of people disenchanted with their government and it's handling of health care issues. Never was the voice of discontent sounded with regards to the handling of health care. Maybe I was in a place where every one was happy, I don't know. I do remember that money to various Provence's was discussed, as there seemed a grudge regarding some getting unfair shares of oil shale revenue or cattle people profiting unfairly. Still, I did not hear any complaints about health care. I finally asked my bud if people seemed OK with their health care and he said to me, 'yeah, we love it.' Yes, I asked if they had to wait an unduly long time to be treated and was told that if you had a minor injury, you were instructed in what to do about it and might wait a week to be seen. Serious injuries and illnesses were treated immediately. So, according to some U.S. media and politicians, what am I missing here?
Another really amazing story. While driving down a main street in Calgary with my hosts in the back seat one day, they started screaming (literally) for me to slow down. I was 200 feet or more from the intersection, there were pedestrians ready to cross. Apparently, up there in the cold north, the pedestrian reigns supreme. Unlike much of the U.S. crossing the street is not considered an act of overt defiance of possible death. Folks here respect the man (or women) on foot, rather surprising for me.
So... my experience was one of a people who were satisfied for the most part with government. A people who didn't seem to feel as though their government was some twisted Machiavellian entity, never to be trusted. In other words a pretty happy well adjusted group with few worries.
Then I came back to the U.S. The phrase, "wrapped kinda' tight" came to mind. I like the people around me here at home, but there seems to be constant fear and worry about some thing or another all the time. As an ex news reporter, I remember that old adage, "If it bleeds, it leads," some thing I was never quite comfortable with. So I wondered, what is the real understanding of the reality most of us here in America have of the world, (our own) and the global community? What's yours and is it real or is it media and politician induced. Have you really asked your self that question?
Maybe we ought to demand responsibility and accountability in media. Maybe reading is something that needs to more common place. I don't know. I do know from traveling to other parts of the world that many are just as good as where we live and some are actually better. Does that give us something to shoot for? Yes Edna, Canada is not just that funny country to the north, but a real nation with very nice people who seemed full of common sense, good will and decency towards their fellows. and they had pretty good beer to boot. I liked it, and you can see the Northern Lights from time to time, Eh!
"Poisoning the future, children and Autism disorders"
Dramatic rise of ASD and associated disorders in children in the U.S.
I’m watching a Presentation by Dr. Thomas Insel (National Institute of Health) to members of Congress on the dramatic rise of Autism Spectrum Disorders. All associated pediatric disorders have increased dramatically as well. It's apparent to me from the data and the research I've done on my own, that we have been slowly poisoning the environment so that increasing numbers of our children will suffer from neurological disorders.
It’s possible to project a future where humankind will fail completely because it will lack the ability to think rationally and sanely. THE pervasive use of chemicals in agriculture, food industries, building trades and in every facet of our life may very well be our undoing.
If you are a parent, or expecting, I think it’s on the utmost importance that you become aware of the complexity of the chemical/environmental issues regarding the future of your children. All it can take to alter the genetics of a developing child/embryo are just a few parts per million of a chemical that is an unwanted invader to the developing embryonic environment.
Currently, there are 1,623 toxic sites in the U.S. under the auspices of the EPA., the majority which have still to be remediated. 1. Looking back, I remember the ominous feeling I had after reading Rachel Carson’s, “Silent Spring,” and becoming alarmed at her message about the damage of pesticides on our environment. I spent the whole of my high school years a little terrified of food. I still am a bit to this day. As a matter of fact, it seems most moderately educated people wash their fruits and vegatables these days. It’s almost second nature. That’s a scary concept; I mean that we accept the fact that our foods may be poisoned.
In the United States 1 in 12, or just under five million females, have mercury above the level considered safe by the US Environmental Protection Agency.2. I saw this figure on the web site I referenced below. If this is for one chemical only, think what else is out there and the effects it can have on you and your children. For what it’s worth, you all need to contact your congress person to make sure the disorders like Autism are fully funded under any health care we pass. Many other disorders of a similar nature are out there and will become even more prevalent.
How do we stop them?
· By becoming aware of the vast pool of research and knowledge that is available to us if we care to look,
· By writing and calling congress people so they understand the value their legislation to children yet unborn.
· By starting groups to focus on these problems.
· By learning to eat healthier, (perhaps organic) and growing food of your own, maybe even your own eggs
Take some control of what you ingest, take back your life, for yourself and for your children sake. It’s not to late, but it will be very soon.
Vern McFalls
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1. http://projects.publicintegrity.org/superfund
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