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 |   Second blog -- answers to an ocean of prompts |
 "Failure is unimportant. It takes courage to make a fool of yourself." CHARLIE CHAPLIN  Sometimes it takes darkness and the sweet confinement of your aloneness to learn anything or anyone that does not bring you alive is too small for you. David Whyte        This is my supplementary blog in which I will post entries written for prompts. |
| Prompt: Sound Effects Some say that chefs invented potato chips for their sound effects. Can you think of other sound effects that enrich our lives? ------------ I don't eat potato chips all that much but the crunch of my regular morning fare, open-faced and toasted bread and cheese slices, might produce similar sound effects. They seem to do that to me inside my head anyway while I take the bites. Granted, toasted bread's crunch is not the same as a potato chip's, but it has its own unique auditory allure. The two are similar in that, the crunching sound begins with a subtle, yet crisp crackle as the teeth break through a hard thin surface. chip. This initial sound sets the stage for what is to come, instantly drawing my attention and building anticipation. The volume may vary depending on the force applied and the thickness of the food item, but the essence remains the same—a resounding crunch that echoes delightfully. Not just the sounds of eating something, but also other intriguing sounds surround us on a daily basis. Just a while ago, I heard the beeping sound of the Terminix truck and I rushed to close the doors and windows since I knew that our Terminix serviceman was going to spray the outdoor areas around the house. Then, for those who are lucky enough to live in the four-season zones, the crunch of the autumn leaves on the ground may captivate their senses and evoke a range of emotions. And of course there are other sounds, too, like that of the rain, waves against rocks, birds chirping, crackling open fire, cat's purring, an owl's hooting, wine or water being poured, a baby's giggle, sea in a conch shell, popping bubble wrap, a bat hitting the baseball, referee's whistle, buzzing bumblebees, popcorn popping, car engine, fire truck sirens, arcade amusement game sounds, clock ticking, coins clattering, hands clapping, kettle boiling...etc. Come to think of it, we are living in a symphony orchestra, the orchestra of life in our world, whose music can trigger memories and emotional responses. In essence, simple or complicated, we owe a lot to all the sounds that surround us to make our lives unique by evoking sensory experiences inside our minds. . |
| Prompt: Human Beings In general, do you have faith in human beings or are you disappointed in our human ways? What do you think would make us better as species? ============ We, the Homo Sapiens, think we are a remarkable species as the most dominant and influential creatures on this planet, with supposedly fine cognitive abilities, social complexity, and adaptability. We think our cognitive strength (i.e. more developed brain!) has facilitated numerous achievements, including scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and artistic expressions. Just because we think we are so hot, my faith in human beings is below appreciation; however, I'm not totally disappointed in us. Just some! To begin with, we share a good amount of genetic similarity with other species. This may be a plus. Also, we get what we need and then some out of this earth, no matter the consequences. I think other living beings are more considerate. They take only what they need, and not the extras. Then, despite originating from a common ancestor, we have diversified across geographical regions, resulting in different ethnicities, physical features, and genetic variations. So what? So do the cats and many other species. If we are taking pride in our diversification, then why are we trying to kill or outdo one another? Individuality, one might answer. Yes, each one of us has their own personal definitions of kindness, strength, masculinity, civilization, femininity, God/Creator/Disbelief, right or wrong. Humans are always into everything and every idea in the world, however limited by subjectivity. Plus, any absolute truth we think we have found always gets replaced by someone else's or by something else. We just can't hold on to anything for very long. Then, we cannot do without each other, either. Other people are the most important in our lives, but other people can disappear to be replaced by still other people. Worse yet, we make them disappear through wars, famine, poverty, etc. I don't exactly know what would make us better as species, but to begin with, we should end all wars and famine, and respond to one another with much more understanding and kindness. Then, as my grandmother used to say, "Clean after yourself. Pick up your own garbage. Don't leave a mess." That should go how we treat this planet, too. Otherwise, either we suffer as species or our earth becomes even more of a poisonous dump site. . |
| Are you living in one of the areas with extreme heat conditions? How do you stay cool? Do you have any tips to share? It was 110 here today in Vegas and the next two days are going to be hotter. The joys of summer time are challenging. ---------- Yes, South Florida is no joke. Although Vegas with 110 tops our high nineties, we hit the hundreds sometimes during the midday, and our heat index is sometimes in the hundred tens. Yet, not just the South, but a heat wave anywhere could be dangerous for health and it's crucial to take those necessary precautions. Some people here still go and sit under the sun at the beach, which amazes me and I worry for their welfare, because extreme heat means serious health risks, like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or fainting need medical intervention. As for me, I just don't go out if I don't have to. The house has AC and thank God for that! Still, my clothing is very light and this morning, I took a look at myself in the mirror and laughed, for I thought I looked like a toddler in short shorts. Joking aside, light clothing is a must. AC or other cooling devices that circulate the air do help, also. Eating light meals, cool showers, and staying alert to weather forecasts, heat advisories, and changes in temperature could be some tips. In addition, it is necessary to keep an eye on children, older people, and people with medical conditions as they are more likely to suffer from heat-related illnesses. Then, as they say, this too shall pass, like this year's unheard of heat. |
| “Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow.” ― Mary Anne Radmacher Let this quote influence your blog. The quote for me was inspired by the Netflix movie about the Thai Cave Rescue . The Cave Rescue occurred in 2018, and what happened with the 12 boys and their coach and all the people involved in their rescue. ======= At the end of the day or even at the beginning of it, with each task in store, each annoyance, each disappointment, and each minor inconvenience can be daunting, for sure. Then, I think, it might be easier to find the courage for bigger things, such as climbing Mt. Everest, and trust me, I haven't done that, but I might have done a few other things that, at least in my mind, might equal to it. On the other hand, I try very hard to instill in me some resilience, patience, and positive mindset. necessary to face the little bumps head-on. I haven't seen "The Cave Rescue" but I can still appreciate the courage everyone must have shown for that rescue. Yet, as scary as it might have been, it was a joint effort, a group project, and anything done with others can be inspirational for finding the courage and the strength to handle such a situation head on. In the same vein, what about the old person living all alone in the world or the single mother whose means are extremely limited or someone with an ailment that no one understands or can help? How do they face each day and find the courage to live yet another one? I believe their courage is found in the simple joys, the appreciation of what little they have, and their ability to find beauty in the ordinary. Those people are teaching and testing themselves (or are being tested and taught by the Creator, if you want to look at it that way) so they can see and understand the ins and outs of life and how each moment contributes to the depth of their existence. The courage to live through our troubles stems from the realization that our capacity for happiness and contentment is not solely reliant on monumental achievements. It has to do with appreciating the grandeur of the human experience and that takes courage to live through all challenges, tiny or large. . |
| Prompt: What do you prefer? Women authors or men authors? ------------- Both!  And such a trick question!I look for content in terms of if it interests me at the moment, and to tell the truth, my moments and interests do change at the drop of a hat. The same author may have written something I like and he may have written something I seriously dislike, Haruki Murakami, for example, which I won't go into which of his books I loved and which one stunned me with its disconnectedness. This is because I have a huge respect for all authors for playing a crucial role in shaping literature and storytelling. An author may be influenced by various factors, including their personal experiences, cultural background, and individual perspectives. I guess gender may have a role in it, too, for shaping an author's worldview, the themes they explore, and the characters they create. Historically, most literature was written by men, except for women who took a man's pen name, so their writing can be accepted. This doesn't say much for the male authors and the general understanding of the population of bygone days, does it! These days, it is mostly believed that male authors explore themes such as masculinity, power dynamics, and societal pressures from their own perspectives. Whereas female authors explore gender roles, identity, relationships, and the experiences of women in society, as they challenge societal norms and expectations. I am of the opinion that a good writer, male or female, can write from the viewpoint of each gender quite successfully. I also believe in avoiding such generalizations about how gender affects literary work, as every author is unique as a person and their works can be influenced by a multitude of factors way beyond gender. . |
| Prompt: "With a ripple of leaves and a trinkle of streams, the full world rolls in a rhythm of praise and the winds are one with the clouds and beams-Midsummer Days! Midsummer days!" William Ernest Henley Write about this in your Blog entry today. ----- I don't know why, but this quote reminded me of that Shakepeare's play, in which four Athenians run away to the forest only to have Puck the fairy make both of the boys fall in love with the same girl. Then, all kinds of zany stuff happens. I guess it was the mention of "Midsummer." Anyhow, my mind is a weird jumble, and Shakespeare's comedy has nothing to do with this quote. In fact, the quote is not zany at all, since it evokes a vivid image of the beauty and harmony found in nature during the height of summer, for in its essence, it is a celebration of life. The phrase "ripple of leaves" suggests a gentle movement, as if the leaves are dancing in the breeze, offering a sense of life and vitality, as if the entire world is participating in a celebration of nature. Then, the "trinkle of streams" brings to mind the soothing sound of water flowing over pebbles or cascading down a waterfall. It signifies the presence of water, a life-giving element for all species and nature itself. "The full world rolls in a rhythm of praise" portrays a sense of unity and reverence for the natural world, since all creation is contributing into a collective music. The word praise could be for the Creator or the Creation itself. Also, I think, "the winds are one with the clouds and beams" has to do with the oneness or rather the integration of differences in nature, creating a feeling of harmony and tranquility. In short, William Ernest Henley's "Ballade Of Midsummer Days And Nights" is a celebratory ode, so unlike what Shakespeare entertained us with in his midsummer night's comedy. And yes, I did look up the quote. Thanks, Google! . |
| Prompt: If you have a pet, describe a day in its life from its perspective. If you don't have a pet, choose anye animal and write about an imaginary day it its life. ------------ Hello, my name's Noche and I live with my best friend Joy. Joy became my best friend two years ago when my original owners for twelve years didn't want me anymore, although the problem wasn't my fault but their Chesapeake terrier--whatever--dog's; however, this is another past-history story. Now, I have a much better life, and although I have become a scaredy cat, thanks to that dog, I am not as scared anymore. When Joy and I wake up in the morning, I first arch my back and extend my paws, then jump out of the bed and wait patiently for her to get ready. When we both head toward the kitchen, I purr and meow because it's breakfast time. After enjoying my kibbles and lapping my water, I jump on my seat next to the computer and wait for Joy to eat her breakfast. My seat is a bit lower than hers and I enjoy it because I can watch the outside from it and also can get loved and petted as she works. Some days the lure of adventure calls me and I go on the covered porch and watch the vibrant tapestry of fluttering birds, dancing squirrels through the screen and hear the ugly, unfortunate sound of a neighbor's dog yapping. Then I sit near the pool and watch my own image in the water. Sometimes, a chipmunk or a frog runs right outside the porch's doors and I ran with it alongside the screens. Since it is hot weather now, Joy closes the doors to the inside of the house after airing it. I always go in running even before she calls me and jump on my seat to bask with contentment and I'm lulled into a peaceful slumber. Then, if I am awake, when Joy walks around the house doing this and that, I walk with her meowing and giving her my approval. Sometimes, she talks on the phone while petting me and I love that. With her each gentle stroke, I know I am being loved and cherished. I also love my treats that I get a couple of times a day. What I don't like is when someone comes to the door and we have a guest. Then I hide under an armchair in the living room. A cat can never be too careful, can she! Not after being chased around by a big terrible dog! Joy never leaves me alone for very long. When she goes out and then comes back, I greet her with a meow and a soft purr. Then, throughout the day, Joy and I talk a lot. She tells me stuff in human language and I always meow back. That is, when I am not napping. When nighttime comes, Joy and I go to the bedroom. As she sits up in bed and reads, I sit next to her and purr. Sometimes we watch something on her pad while we snuggle together. When sleepy time comes, Joy turns off the night and I nuzzle her for a little more petting, just before we both drift off into dreams filled with our endless adventures. ================= Prompt: Colors What is your favorite color? Why? If the world could be only one color, what color would you choose? And would you want to live in a world of only one color? ----- I can't say any one color is my favorite because my taste for color changes. When I was a teen, I liked the blues. Later on came my green era, followed by purple, followed by any other color and each one changed back and forth. It is said that colors have the ability to evoke a wide range of emotional responses. Warm colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, are often associated with energy, excitement, and passion. They can stimulate the senses and increase heart rate, breathing rate, and appetite by creating a sense of urgency and they can grab attention with a feeling of warmth and liveliness. On the other hand, cool colors, like blue, green, and purple, have a calming and soothing effect on the mind. They mean tranquility, relaxation, and stability. Cool colors can create a sense of serenity and peacefulness. In answer to the question of wanting the world in only one color, a big no; I would hate to live in a world of one color. If such a world existed, what would the poor artists and painters feed on emotionally and otherwise! Each color has its own psychological (or psycho  ) effect. To prove that point, this is what I found out about them on the internet. Red: It is often associated with strong emotions like love, passion, and anger. Red can increase heart rate, raise blood pressure, and stimulate appetite. It is frequently used to draw attention and create a sense of urgency. Orange: This color combines the energy of red and the cheerfulness of yellow. It is associated with enthusiasm, creativity, and warmth. Orange can evoke feelings of excitement and encourage social interaction. Yellow: It is often associated with happiness, optimism, and intellect. Yellow can evoke a sense of joy and positivity. It is believed to stimulate mental activity and enhance focus. Green: As the color of nature, green represents harmony, balance, and renewal. It has a calming effect on the mind and is often associated with relaxation and growth. Green is also linked to feelings of freshness and fertility. Blue: Blue is known for its calming and tranquil qualities. It symbolizes serenity, trust, and stability. Blue can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it a popular choice for creating a peaceful atmosphere. Purple: Historically associated with royalty and luxury, purple signifies creativity, spirituality, and wisdom. It has a mysterious and introspective quality. Lighter shades of purple can evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia. Pink: Often associated with femininity, pink represents love, compassion, and nurturing. It has a soothing and calming effect, and is often used in environments to create a gentle and comforting atmosphere. I also think or presume that cultural and personal experiences can influence our responses to colors. In addition, color preferences can vary among people, possibly due to personal associations and past experiences. In general, though, I believe colors have a lot to do with our psychological well-being. I hope our surroundings and moods are enhanced by colors and we always stay under their positive influences. . |
| Prompt: Use these words in your blog: abscond, embezzle, prowess, whimsical and dog days. ------- Paul was Elmwood's most trusted accountant. The townspeople so trusted him that they neglected to keep after their own savings and investments. And why not! Their accountant Paul was an unassuming figure with his salt-and-pepper hair and a pair of spectacles perched on his nose. He was known for his meticulous nature and unwavering dedication to his work. Beneath his mild-mannered façade, however, Arthur nurtured a whimsical dream of adventure. One scorching summer, during the dog days when the sun beat down relentlessly, Paul stumbled upon a hidden account while sifting through a pile of dusty ledgers. It was a secret fund amassed through many years of embezzling. Urged by his hidden desire for excitement, he decided to abscond with the embezzled fortune and leave behind his dull life as an accountant. He packed a small bag and left the sleepy town of Elmwood, embarking on a journey across distant lands. During his travels, he managed to master the art of persuasion, honed his prowess in stealth, and embraced the unknown with every step he took. Over the duration of a couple of years, he gained reputation as the "Phantom of Fortune," with people speaking of his uncanny ability to charm his way into secured vaults, his unparalleled agility in eluding capture, and his whimsical sense of justice. Yet, after a series of escapades, Paul began yearning for his old, familiar life, and with a heavy heart he relinquished his stolen fortune, donating it to charity, and returned to Elmwood, tired and weathered. When he arrived at his old town, the folks of Elmwood greeted him with open arms. This was because Paul's tales had captured their imaginations, and they treated him like royalty. From that day on, Paul was no longer the mild-mannered accountant. He was now a living legend, and so what, if what he did was ethical or not. The only thing they knew was that Paul had dared to dream and had shown extraordinary potential in making his dream come true. Yet, the folks in Elmwood learned how to be truly meticulous in keeping up with their own savings and they watched Paul's every step. As to Paul, although he knew what he did was essentially unsavory, he found comfort in having taught a lesson to the people in Elmwood: The lesson of keeping an eye on their very own money. . |
| Prompt: "Imagination makes us aware of limitless possibilities. How many of us haven't pondered the concept of infinity or imagined the possibility of time travel? In one of her poems, Emily Bronte likens imagination to a constant companion, but I prefer to think of it as a built-in entertainment system." Alexandra Adornetto What is imagination to you? Is it a companion, an entertainment system, or something else? ==== Granted, with old age, my imagination has taken a break and that's why I write and read less fiction and more non-fiction, nowadays. Not that, I don't enjoy reading a well-written story or poem, by the way. Having said that, I have to admit I miss my more imaginative youthful days and ways. This may be because, with age, reality has set in more strongly whereas imagination's powerful force usually transcends all boundaries. Also, this may be because I have little pep left to explore imagination's infinite possibilities where far-out ideas take shape and concepts come to life. Then, I still appreciate those concepts born from the depths of imagination, but mostly others' imaginations, to tell the truth. Those concepts can be the building blocks of medical, technological, and social innovations, and also, entertainment to serve as a foundation upon which movies, novels and stories, video games and many other forms of media can be constructed. As such, imagination creates futuristic technologies, magical realms, fantasy stories and creatures by allowing creators to go far beyond the confines of reality. Who can ever forget iconic fantasy people like Harry Potter, Luke Skywalker, Cinderella,or Sherlock holmes and worlds like the Middle-Earth and the Star Wars Galaxy! Such fun stuff can easily bridge the gap between the fictional world and my own reality to let me experience awe-inspiring adventures even while I am sitting in my chair, enjoying a cup of tea. Then, even though my role-playing has stayed within the confines of my childhood, I can still appreciate how imagination also invents those role-playing games and virtual realities that enhance people's otherwise dull everyday lives. For it is through imagination that thoughts transcend far beyond the world we live in to create worlds filled with wonder and innovations with endless potentials. . |
| Prompt: What is the most independent thing you have ever done? ---- Independence is a powerful concept that resonates deeply with many of us, but since I don't like to rank anything I have done in terms of 'most' or 'least', I couldn't in all honesty answer this question fully. Yet, I have done a lot of independent things. This may be because I was an only child and I was used to doing things alone and innovating stuff, not just going along. If anything, although I am said to be a mild-mannered person in real life, I am not a go-alonger with everything. For example, choosing my fields of study, hobbies, or even my husband I have done against others' urgings or wishes and I have never looked back. Things fell in place more or less, over time. One thing where I wasn't independent of others was raising my children. Even with that, though it was mostly with their father, I did it alone sometimes, or I took the advice of their father, pediatrician, and other professionals. This is because, while independence can be fulfilling and empowering, it's important to strike a balance between independence and interdependence. Independence should not be seen as isolation or a complete detachment from others but rather as an avenue for personal exploration and growth. Moreover, doing independent things means a sense of responsibility and self-reliance, especially when I rely on myself to achieve a goal. Then, I also have myself to blame if things go wrong. Truthfully, I'd rather not blame anyone for anything, for that would make me a bitter person. This is another positive that results from doing independent things, in addition to gaining a sense of responsibility and adaptation skills to new situations. . |
| Prompt: How was your 4th of July? ------- My 4th of July wasn't hectic...in the beginning. I did my everyday stuff and reading etc. It was very quiet mostly and I was quite happy with that. Unless if I can count the brownies and the cat incidents. With brownies, I was just about to take them out of the oven when someone called. So I turned off the oven and talked with her on the phone. Since she is very talkative and our conversation took some time, at the end I had forgotten about the brownies standing in the oven. When I remembered them several hours later, the brownies had become stone hard. Today, I'll try to revive them with the bain-marie steaming method. Crossing my fingers on this. As to the cat incident, my cat is the epitome of a scaredy cat. When there were no sounds of firecrackers throughout the day, I started thanking my lucky stars, but then at 8 PM, they started with full force, and the cat, trying to hide and/or escape, was meowing and running around the house, and unfortunately not being able to get away from all that din. So, I ran after her and after finally catching up with her, I picked her up and carried her to bed with me and held her until she calmed down. Luckily, the neighbors' noisy entertainment stopped around 10 PM, and both the cat and I were happy, worn out though we both were. Although as a reminder of sacrifices made by those who fought for our independence, fireworks with their booms, cracks, and loud squeaks may have a distressing impact on people's and pets' ears. I don't know what happened to the alternative celebrations such as laser light shows and silent fireworks that were supposedly put in the works. Personally, I have no problem with the fireworks being a powerful symbol of patriotism, celebration, and remembrance as a time-honored tradition, but I guess my cat doesn't care for any such tradition all that much. . |
| Prompt: Missings Sometimes we miss opportunities or trains or other things. Have you ever missed something like an opportunity or what someone meant when they said something to you? ====== Missings? There goes frustration, big time. Such disappointment at first, then regret kicks in with "should've, could've, and would've" at its heels. But it's life and some missings will happen. Imagine standing on a train platform, watching as the doors close and the train departs without you. Such an overwhelming sense of disappointment and helplessness right that minute inside you. But then, the consolation prize could be, this is not the only day in your life or the only train. In fact there's another one to take off in half an hour. Even if there isn't today, tomorrow the trains will start working again. Well, so much for the train metaphor. But my main regret about missing something has been not seeing the truth behind someone's words and yet, believing in someone else's lies. Although this was decades ago, I still ponder some "what-if" scenarios and if my life could have been different--for better or worse--if I had made a different choice instead of taking another leap of faith. Yet, missed opportunities are a natural part of life. No one can seize every opportunity that comes their way, and it's impossible to predict the outcome of each decision. Then, instead of fixating on the opportunities missed, it's more productive to focus on the lessons learned from those experiences. On the plus side, by focusing on personal growth, staying open to new possibilities, and embracing resilience, I think I turned missed opportunities into stepping stones toward an acceptable life, and despite whatever missings I had in my life, I am not sorry for my choices. By luck or by divine intervention, they seem to have worked for the better. . |
| Prompt: Routine "If you follow the classical pattern, you are understanding the routine, the tradition, the shadow -- you are not understanding yourself.” Bruce Lee Is there anything that you'd want to add to or subtract from your routine or your life in general? -------------- I used to dislike routine anything when I was much younger, but nowadays I'm finding that at least some routine gives my life a sense of structure and stability. For example, every morning after the usual bathroom process, I make my bed, water the plants, take care of the cat's needs, and then, get my breakfast. Thus, my mornings are well organized and before I am fully awake, I know what to do and that gives me a small sense of satisfaction of accomplishment. One benefit of routines is that they eliminate having to make constant decisions about mundane tasks and thus they free up mental energy for more important things. By the same token, they provide a sense of predictability and comfort and they help reduce stress and anxiety. Then, they also let us to make incremental progress and ultimately achieve mastery in various areas of our lives. By repeating the certain actions or behaviors, we help reinforce our nervous system in making those actions easier over time. This can be particularly useful when we are pursuing long-term goals or developing new skills. While routines do add consistency to our lives and have several benefits, they can also become double-edged swords that can stifle progress and innovation and restrict personal growth, especially if they are too rigid or inflexible. When we rely too much on any one routine, we risk falling into a state of complacency and stifle the opportunities for personal and professional growth. Not to mention, the routines giving us that blah feeling of a sense of sameness and monotony. As progress often thrives in an environment of novelty and uncertainty, we may consider to break from the constraints of routine and open ourselves to new experiences, perspectives, and ideas. I believe, therefore, by reassessing and adjusting a routine, introducing small changes to it, and looking for new experiences may even out the negatives of it and encourage progress. This way, we may save a helpful routine from becoming a nuisance in our lives. As to adding and subtracting from my daily routine, I think I'll add a morning walk to it once the heat outside lessens. In the meantime, I may do some stretching exercises inside, just before breakfast. The rest of my day usually goes around whatever I need or choose to do, anyway. . |
| Do you have plans for the 4th of July? Or doing something special for with a four day weekend? ---------- I don't have any set plans for the 4th of July, and this or any other weekend. Four-day or regular, weekends have no real bearing on my present life, except for the relief from the landline calls for scamming, charity, or other blah blah. As an aside, Thank you AT&T for your inconsideration of your clients and for not giving me a way to not let those crap calls ring. I guess, then, for the reasons above, I'll stick to writing about freedom which has proven to have an immense importance in our human experience. Throughout history, the struggle for freedom has been a driving force behind revolutions, movements, and societal transformations. So, following this trend and then becoming its leader, our USA is founded on liberty and the ideas of freedom. And it is July 4th weekend this next week, although sometimes, I wonder if, as Americans, we are celebrating a freedom that is in danger of eroding, and I certainly hope escaping reality does not become our new national pastime. Still, at times, I rejoice when we do something really heroic for ourselves and for the world; therefore, as of the present moment, something worth celebrating this July Fourth is our freedom. What is freedom, then? Do we really understand what its meaning encompasses? To me, freedom represents the absence of undue restrictions on individual autonomy. But how much autonomy and can some restrictions be useful to us? You see, every idea has its own set of pros and cons. I have to believe that it is still doable, in a free society, for individuals to have the right to voice their opinions, practice their chosen religion and freedom of speech, assemble peacefully, and engage in activities that do not infringe upon the rights of others. The key phrase here is "do not infringe upon the rights of others." I just hope AT &T and such companies and scammers that like to trample upon the good citizens' privacy rights take this into consideration. As the original foundational stones and our most cherished documents, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights serve to prevent people, Americans or otherwise, from overstepping their bounds. As such, the tension between individual freedoms and collective well-being still are at odds when it comes to shaping discussions and policies in the United States, even if interpretation of "freedom" may vary among individuals and groups. I believe no one in his right American mind wants increased surveillance, erosion of privacy, or restrictions on certain civil liberties, despite the societal progress's conflicting challenges. Maybe this is all because the concept of freedom is a dynamic and evolving ideal for it requires constant reflection, dialogue, and a commitment to upholding the rights and liberties of all citizens in order to navigate the complexities of a changing world. Yet, I think, in comparison to the rest of the world, we're quite all right here in the USA; this is partly because I can carp about most stuff in my blog. The inconsistencies are usually due to the USA always having to solve a few conflicts within itself. Lucky for us, it has always pulled through. Truth is, to me, USA is my beloved, perpetual, and consistently-conflicted comeback kid, as a country. Happy July Fourth, America! . . |
| Prompt: Write about a recent surprise you have given to someone. what was their expression? how did you feel? ------ I am not too crazy about giving or getting surprises in general. Nice or not, a surprise may shock a person into a heart attack. I can't recall of any recent surprise that I've given or have received, possibly for that reason alone. On the other hand, especially for the young, nice surprises have a magical way of instantly changing the atmosphere and bringing joy to both the giver and the receiver. Whether it's a small gift, an unexpected gesture, or a big surprise, the expressions on the faces of surprised people capture a range of emotions, from disbelief and astonishment to sheer delight and gratitude as their faces often become a canvas of emotions. I recall, in my youth, my grandmother's long-lost younger brother suddenly showing up at the door. Shocked and surprised, my grandmother just fainted, and it could have been worse. What if she had had a heart attack! The rest turned out to be really nice, though. Once her brother explained why he had stayed away and was readily understood and accepted by everyone, he started coming to see us every year from the other end of the world, igniting a burst of happiness within all of us. Unlike my grandmother, however, not everyone faints and falls. When people are surprised in a nice way, in some instances, tears of happiness well up in their eyes, glistening like precious gems. In other instances, people may exhibit a composed surprise, maintaining an air of elegance even amidst their astonishment. Still others may turn spontaneously bubbly, unable to contain their excitement and bouncing with childlike happiness. Although every surprised expression is unique, it is in such moments that we witness the sheer vulnerability and beauty of human connection. And who knows, nice surprises may just have the incredible ability to create lasting memories and to forge really strong bonds between people. |
| Prompt: I simply fell in love with...... like you would a person. Write about this in your Blog entry today. =================================== I simply fell in love with Noche the day I saw her, but she wasn't mine at the time. That was 14 plus years ago. My son and his then-wife had adopted her when her mother, a feral cat, brought her to their door and literally and meowingly begged them to take her in, and they did. Go forward 12 years, and my son adopted another cat and a dog, which didn't sit well with Noche. I have difficulty believing the rotten things Noche did in their house after the other pets showed up. She was creating such a chaos in their lives that they decided to take her to a no-kill shelter. When my son told me of their decision, two and a half years ago, I felt very badly for Noche as I had always loved her very much. That's when my son decided to bring Noche to me on a trial basis. Trial? My foot! Noche is mine now. I am captivated by her and I love her. I've always loved her, her talkativeness, her jet-black velvety and smooth fur, her vibrant eyes, changing from green to yellow and vice-versa when they catch the light, her sleek body and graceful movements. But that is not all. she is also very affectionate and gentle with me, purring softly sitting on her seat next to my computer and at nights sharing my bed as she snuggles to me. Noche, however, is not a lap-cat. She doesn't sleep on my lap as my earlier cats had done. She likes to be next to me, sometimes putting her paws on me, especially when I'm feeling unwell. Then, her soothing presence brings a sense of calm and relaxation and makes me forget whatever is troubling me. She is agile, yes, but not mischievous. Maybe because of her age, she engages in interactive play only (I think) to please me for a very short time. At other times, her toys are left on their own. Despite the many superstitions surrounding black cats, Noche is loving, loyal, and a very talkative cat to whom I tell things and she meows back as if she understands every word, and just maybe, she does, too. In short, Noche is positive energy to me, an exceptional being, and with a unique personality. I am so glad she is sharing her life with me with her purrs and meows. Who knows, maybe I'll learn the meow language and I will be meowing all over my blog, very soon.  |
| Prompt: "The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul." Robert Wyland ------ I feel very lucky to be living so close to the Atlantic Ocean. Standing before it, with its seemingly endless horizon stretching out as far as my eyes can see, I cannot help but feel a profound sense of awe and wonder. The ocean humbles me, reminding me of my tiny place in the universe and ignites my curiosity for its depths, literally and metaphorically. No wonder, the ocean has long been a muse for artists, writers, and creators of all kinds. Its vastness and ever-changing nature provide an infinite canvas for the imagination to roam free. The vibrant hues of its blues inspire painters to capture its beauty on a canvas. Haven't you ever stood in awe while looking at a beautifully done painting of the ocean? Then, writers, too, draw inspiration from its depths, weaving tales of adventure and mystery. Remember Captain Ahab? Photographers don't stay too far behind either as they seek to capture fleeting moments of beauty, frozen in time. All this is because the ocean with its coral reefs to majestic whales reminds of its biodiversity and the interconnectedness of all its living things. Also, its resilience in the face of adversity shows me how to be adaptable by instilling a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of nature. While I stand at the water's edge, gazing into the horizon, I am thus reminded of the boundless possibilities that lie before me and the transformative power of nature, and I breathe in its salty air and give my thanks to the Creator for giving my this experience, this life, this view of the ocean. . |
| Prompt: Scents and Smells Do you have a keen sense of smell? Can smells change your mood or maybe make you happier and healthier? --------- Actually, any maybe unfortunately, no. My sense for smell was never as strong as some people I know; however, I can detect smells and scents well enough for my own good. I am not sure smells trigger vivid memories for me either, as some people insist that they do, and even though I can be somewhat nostalgic every now and then, it is more likely due to visual cues triggering the nostalgia in me rather than aromas and scents. It is said that certain fragrances, like lavender, chamomile, and vanilla can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even promote better sleep, and scents like citrus, peppermint, and eucalyptus can uplift mood, increase alertness, and enhance focus. As much I like and appreciate all those scents, to the best of my knowledge, they don't have any effect on me, except for me recognizing them. Then, there is such a thing as aromatherapy used in treatments for mood disorders and mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I doubt that such a treatment would do anything for me at all, at any time. All this hoopla about scents and aroma is because, according to those who study these things, scents can also have direct physiological effects on human bodies. For instance, certain smells can stimulate the production of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals and the aromatic compounds in scents can affect the autonomic nervous system, influencing heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. I am not saying that these finding are false; only that I haven't experienced them. All I know is that certain plant pollens and dust, maybe some smells too, do trigger allergies and asthma in my body. Maybe it is because of that "asthma caused by allergies" diagnosis by my doctors that I am not experiencing and enjoying the scents as well as they deserve to be enjoyed. Then, if not for me but for everyone else, I hope all those nice scents and smells can create a healthy atmosphere as I am all for harmony and happiness for all people. . |
| Prompt: Words "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." Ludwig Eittgenstein Do you have a way with words and are you sometimes frustrated with them? What are your thoughts on words? ------ To me, words mean "meaning" since only they have the clear capacity to convey meaning. Granted the five senses plus the sixth one have something to do with meaning, but only words can describe the intricate situations and emotions. Do I have a way with words? I wish! Sometimes, I have to think twice and then again to find the right word to express myself. Yet, I'm never frustrated with words but with myself at my own inability. I love words. If I didn't I wouldn't be writing. And come to think of it, I wouldn't even be speaking. Without words, our human experience would remain trapped as signals within the confines of our minds. Words are more than mere symbols on a page or utterances spoken in conversation. Moreover, the better our vocabulary is, the more deeply can our thoughts penetrate the issues. A well-crafted poem, a heartfelt speech, or a touching story can move us, inspire us, and instill a sense of empathy. Words can heal wounds, offer solace, and ignite passion. On the negative side, they can start wars, spread hate, misinformation, cyberbullying and discouragement. Still, their positive input into our lives is much stronger, as words can bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared understanding. They transfer knowledge through speech, books, and other media, enabling us to preserve history and document scientific discoveries to share insights from diverse fields of study. The impact of words on our emotional state and social interactions is enormous. They have the power to inform, inspire, and transform. In essence, they hold an immense importance in our lives. If they didn't, would we be so tickled pink when a baby says his first words? Just think about that! |
| Prompt: Please, use these words in your entry today: nudnik, nemesis, satiate, bower and embrace. Have fun!. ------- Once upon a time, in a far far away universe, on a distant planet existed a small village nestled amidst rolling green hills. In that village lived a peculiar nudnik named Owain. Owain, coming from a broken family and not having much of an education, had developed the uncanny ability of bothering other people who viewed Owain as their everlasting nemesis. One day, on a sunny afternoon, a traveling sage arrived in the village. The first thing he heard was the villagers' plight about Owain. As this sage had the wisdom and ability to find harmony in any chaotic situation, he decided to take on the challenge of satiating their frustrations. He found Owain at a playground sabotaging the games of children, there. Instead of scolding Owain, the sage invited him to a small garden with blooming flowers and swaying trees. In the middle of a bower in the garden, when Owain was about to trample the flowers, he noticed the sage's aura of tranquility and a feeling of wonder in himself he hadn't experienced ever before. "Owain, I have an offer for you," the sage said. "Instead of living with your own annoyance, why not become a source of joy and inspiration for others?" Such a radical idea! Owain's eyes widened in surprise. The sage continued. "I will teach you the art of storytelling. Since you already possess a knack for seeing the mundane aspects of life, you'll be able to transform them into captivating tales. This trick I learned in a place, far away, called, "Writing.com" and I can easily teach what I learned there to you." Writing.com? Owain hesitated and thought for a moment. Then he became swayed by the sage's aura. Not a bad idea! Whatever this Writing.com is! Despite his self-consciousness about writing and tales, he nodded and whispered, "Yes!" The sage embraced Owain with an encouraging smile and began to teach him the secrets of crafting enchanting narratives. It took days, weeks, months for Owain to absorb the teachings. Once he got good at it, he began to wander through the village, engaging with the villagers not as an irritating nudnik but as a captivating storyteller. His tales revolved around their shared experiences and struggles, infusing them with humor and wisdom. The villagers, although initially skeptical, found themselves captivated by his words, and their previous annoyances faded into admiration. Owain did not stop at storytelling only. His transformation had encouraged a newfound purpose within himself. Inspired by the sage, he started to listen to others' problems and offered support and guidance to them. Eventually, through his kind acts and uplifting stories, Owain became an important person in the village. The people sang and called his name in excitement. Their excitement was so strong that they pronounced his name as Owen. Maybe the villagers, too, had learned a lesson here about the potential in each person for growth and change. Maybe names grew and changed, too. And thus, the village existed happily ever after, due to Owen's stories and kindness, eternally etching his name Owain>Owen in the annals of their history and their hearts. . . |
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But good job quickly redirecting back to the positive things.