content
stringlengths 219
1.01M
| content_length
int64 235
1.01M
|
|---|---|
Ask anyone if they have a problem with food, and the honest answer will probably be ‘yes’. Whether its to lose weight or tone up, to meet society’s expectations or just to get a decent Instagram photo, countless numbers of people will have issues with food.
My issue isn’t environmental. It found me.
I’m lactose intolerant, and whilst this may seem pretty run of the mill nowadays given loads of people have some kind of GI, FODMAP, celiac problem, let me tell you it was not easy growing up with it. Being lactose intolerant was just not a ‘thing’ in the 90’s.
I started to become sick at the age of 3 from something as mundane as a bowl of cornflakes. For the following 7 years I would vomit approximately 3 times each evening, 4-5 evenings a week or more. That means I’ve been physically ill more times that many people will be in the course of their whole life times. The doctors thought my mother had munchausen by proxy syndrome because they couldn’t find anything wrong with me and that my mother was on some kind of attention-seeking trip. Just before my 10th birthday and very much a last ditch attempt, my mother took me to a see a private consultant miles away from our home. I can vaguely remember his kind face, crinkling with a smile as soon as he saw me. Before I had even sat down he told my mother that I was lactose intolerant and, sure enough, he was proved right. The doctor was Indian and I’m quite olive-skinned for an English person (more so when I was younger than now); nearly half the Indian population have some form of lactose intolerance and the doctor had recognised the sallowness in my skin.
My modified carbonara. Find a way to work around your hangups to enjoy the food you love
It was remarkable and the diagnosis literally changed my life. Of course, now I don’t remember much of what my diet was pre-age 10, but I do know it included the usual milk on cereal, milk in tea, etc.
My mother and I were fascinated that a food could do this to me.
If I have a milk product, my body starts to shut down; within 20 minutes I will become very heady, soon after I will start to sweat and then the tummy ache kicks in. Its not like being sick from a hang over or a tummy bug – then you are only sick from your stomach. With my intolerance I am sick from my small intestine which can be excruciating – everything basically has to go back the way it came from, re-enter my stomach and pick up stomach acids before coming out. Once the tummy aches start its hard to say how long it’ll be before I’m physically sick, each time is different, but I will know in myself whether it will be a short process or if I’m in it for the long haul. The tummy aches cause all the energy in my limbs to be sapped and to be ‘re-directed’ to my digestive system. I’ve lost count of the number of times I don’t have the energy to get out of bed, or have been slumped on the bathroom floor pressing my forehead against the cold tiles. The amount of times I’ve cried for a towel, some water and for my hair to be tied back.
My mother and I started looking into other food groups and were surprised that the power of food can have on our bodies. This was still back in the 90’s and our general understanding of food and how to stay healthy has vastly improved since then, but its always something I find myself coming back to. I watch every episode of the BBC Superfoods series with Kate Quilton and anything else that investigates the pros and cons of eating a particular food. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a health freak, but at the back of my mind there is always this subconscious nagging to eat well and to eat healthily.
Earlier in the year when I first started blogging I wrote about how I was having a bit of a health and fitness overhaul, the primary objective being to lose some weight.
I’d noticed in August 2016 that I was getting rather tubby and felt increasingly uncomfortable in my clothes. I’d put on so much weight that my work wear was straining on me and that made me lack confidence.
& more bread
I joined the gym in September and just started doing some basic work outs (I used to really be into fitness so I have some idea of what to do). I admit I wasn’t 100% committed, partly because, with hindsight, I was doing the same thing, day in, day out.
I would rush from the office to the gym, do 20 minutes on the cross-trainer, 10 minutes on the bike and then use some really easy assisted weights to improve muscle tone on my legs. Occasionally I’d use the rower.
Than about November time I got Instagram and came across a fitness fanatic called Kayla Itsines who advocates a wellness lifestyle, but from the comfort of your own room. I don’t particularly like paying for someone to tell me how to exercise and what to eat so I’ve never downloaded her program, but there was enough information and videos on her Instagram feed for me to take away a few pointers. The concept of exercising without having a gym membership or running (though I am partial to the odd run) was intriguing. Although, as I understand it, Itsines builds up the intensity of her programs, it starts by telling you to do a round of exercises that involve no equipment and could be done from your living room.
I carried on with my gym membership, but decided to build in some ‘floor work’ to my routine. I felt so self-conscious using the mats at the side of my gym, in full view of everyone, that I started using the area where they hold classes. I quickly realised there are a lot of people like me who feel uncomfortable struggling to do a sit up in front of everyone else! I started doing a mini-round of basic exercises: 10 squats, 25 sit-ups, 25 Russian twists, 10 leg lifts, 40 cycle sit-ups (I don’t know what they’re called!) and some stretches.
The sit-ups were the killer. For as long as I can remember I’ve never been able to do a sit-up without feeling faint or sick. But I persevered and after two weeks I could do 10 sit-ups without feeling like I was going to black out and that was a real achievement for me. I would still do my time on the cross-trainer and some assisted leg weight lifts, but otherwise I focused on my abs.
Our office Christmas party was in December and I remember being able to buy a size 10 skirt because my waist had gotten smaller. I was so chuffed, even though I had not lost much weight from anywhere else. But it gave me the boost I needed to see me through Christmas and into the New Year if nothing else. From January through to June I was desperate to get back to how I’d been at university. I didn’t set myself any unrealistic goals, just a target weight that I knew was achievable whilst still allowing me to have the occasional treat. I bought a couple of new figure-hugging dresses ready for our holiday in June and I was over the moon that not only could I fit into them, but I actually looked good. I was proud to be me and, for once, wanted to show off my figure rather than hide away in jeans and baggy jumpers.
I must confess that I haven’t been to the gym much since we came back from holiday in July, and I stopped going altogether in August. I realised that it wasn’t the fitness that I was enjoying (though being half-way toned was quite pleasing!), but rather what I was fuelling my body with. I LOVE food and I could never restrict myself from eating carbs, or having no sugar or doing some weird paleo-diet. I’m a firm believer of everything in moderation.
Food should be an enjoyable social occasion, not something to begrudge
I’ve always enjoyed cooking and I’m not afraid to throw a few odd ingredients into a meal to make up for an ingredient I’m lacking, but I think I became stuck in a rut. Do you buy the same items in your food shop every week? I was. Do you cook the same meals most weeks? I was. I was watching cooking programmes and thinking ‘that’s great, I’ll do that’, but would then never get round to it. And after over-analysing my food habits I’ve come to the conclusion that its all to do with vegetables.
I’m extremely partial to some mushrooms, garlic, chilli, red peppers (not any other colour), green beans, a cabbage and leek mix, a few potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, tomatoes etc. It sounds a fair amount, but when I look around the supermarket shelves I realise just how many different types of fruits and vegetables are out there that I don’t even consider. So, I still buy the same vegetables, but now I mix it up a little bit each week – substitute some potatoes for a butternut squash. Simple changes, but ones that excite me to come into the kitchen at the weekend to make something slightly different. I put whatever meat, fish or carbs I want with it, but planning a meal around a particular vegetable really makes it the centrepiece, rather than the add-on because I feel obliged to eat my 5 a-day!
PYO blackberries were a hit at the end of the summer
So since August I’ve focused on what I’m putting in to my body and I’m hoping to maintain the weight I lost for our holiday. I’ve put on a couple of pounds since July, but as I’ve been under the weather and I was away for a week with an extremely bad diet during that time, I think that’s understandable.
My parents are both vegetarian so although they allowed me to eat meat, I didn’t eat very much of it and even now I probably only have meat once or twice a week, and sometimes not at all. Its just not a big part of my life.
I’m also not a pudding person. Sweet treats just don’t grab me as much as the smell of a pie baking! My distaste for puds is mostly down to my intolerance as it can be very hard finding a sweet after-dinner treat that doesn’t involve some form of milk, cream, custard or the like. After years of not being able to have it, I honestly don’t really miss it.
I feel that I have reached a place of contentment in my life, with my food choices and with my body.
I hope to continue like this for many years to come. The satisfaction of eating right far outweighs the few minutes of eating too much cake! I’m not disillusioned – I know that life has its ups and downs and that my weight will fluctuate from over indulging some months, but I do believe that awareness is key. After all, how can you keep something in check if you don’t recognise when its going wrong? I’m excited to buy vegetables and that is something to be proud of in my book. For now, I just want to focus on making my body as healthy as it can reasonably be, without denying it anything. A balance: enabling your body to let you live life to its fullest.
We move house in a few short weeks and I’m going to start growing my own vegetables. I sincerely hope this will keep me on track but as I’m not a budding gardener it might be a bit trial and error for a while!
Categories Musings•Tags balance, everything in moderation, Food, food awareness, food intolerance, healthy eating, healthy lifestyle, lactose intolerance, learning to love vegetables, lifestyle choice
Email Address:
No Instagram images were found.
Website Built with WordPress.com.
Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
| 11,143 |
Online security is a mixture of follow-up rules and actions to ensure cybercriminals do not compromise user's data and online privacy.
Some examples of frequently used online security measures include:
Antivirus software programs can be purchased or freely downloaded, providing safety to internet users. In addition, viruses and threats are blocked by some safety products, preventing them from affecting or getting access to your device.
Increasingly many companies and social media are offering a two-factor authentication which is the second layer of online security. Unfortunately, this means that more than one username and password will be required to log in to an account. Most organizations do this by sending a unique code to their users, which expires after some time, notifying them of any attempt to access their accounts.
Social media platforms and websites allow you to have an account or offer a connection entry system. Unfortunately, due to advanced technology and sophistication of hacking software - websites require more complex passwords. They often need a combination of at least eight characters consisting of a capital letter, a number, and at least one special character.
Security Questions:
When setting up a bank account or Bitcoin wallet, you will be asked to set security questions. These questions might be personal, and you should not share your answers with anyone. Even some social media platforms have also started using safety issues as a user identification method in recent years.
The types of online security listed above are just a fraction of the layers that online security plays in all of our lives each day.
When it comes to hardening online security, you should start with basics, which is how your online project is hosted. Virtual Private Servers are the best solution, especially if they accept crypto as a payment method.
Virtual Private Server provides virtual hosting servers for your online projects, giving your users secure access. VPS makes it possible to increase security by delivering your business enough privacy to prevent people from stealing information or make changes to your server without your consent. In addition, in recent trends of home offices, your server can be available online to your employees without being bridged by a third party.
With VPS hosted workspace available on the internet, all employees can access the server and keep their data protected. This is the way to create a safe and secure server for your employees. So they can work together on different tasks and work conveniently from their homes without losing data, sensitive information, or putting protected data at risk.
Bitcoin VPS Hosting: One of the new means of exchange trending today is a cryptocurrency, which transfers digitally through the internet in a more supervised and secure way. With the level of awareness of crypto, even virtual private servers are adopting the use of cryptocurrency. PRV anonymous VPS offers crypto-friendly VPS hosting servers hosted on a high class of hardware capable of hosting as many virtual machines as possible payable by crypto.
With the ongoing pandemic situation globally, most employees are made to work from home to avoid the spread of diseases, with many businesses moving their transacting operations to new digital formats. Most businesses with sensitive information will not want it leaked. They will be adjusting their system to protect the information, giving employees a chance to work smoothly without being in the office.
In a hunt for better security, businesses need to implement the use of VPS into their IT infrastructure. This level of protection provides extra security and capacity required to carry out smooth operations in the organization operating in online space.
back to top
Which collection of mannequins will be best for your luxury boutique?
A luxury boutique is associated with prestige. However, in order to achieve this prominent effect, it is absolutely necessary to take care of the correct arrangement.
Written on Wednesday, 30 November 2022 12:50
What is the best electric scooter brand for adults?
As people become more environmentally conscious, a new type of vehicle has come up in the market, the electric scooter, otherwise known as an e-scooter. These machines are designed to provide a smooth, eco-friendly, cost-effective mode of personal transportation. Here is a list of the best electric scooter brands available today.
Written on Monday, 28 November 2022 14:13
Renting a car is extremely popular in recent times, as it gives you incredible freedom in planning trips.
Written on Saturday, 26 November 2022 15:15
Startup Accelerator Programs: this is what you need to know
According to the latest reports, there are thousands of startup accelerator programs globally, and their number is increasing every year. Finding the best fit can be challenging for a business.
Written on Saturday, 19 November 2022 12:33
Auto recycling - an eco-friendly approach to car repair
Every car needs repair at some point, and this applies to literally all car models and brands. This is because cars have consumable parts, which simply wear out.
Written on Saturday, 19 November 2022 12:25
3 things that should be on your bucket list
Usually New Years Eve is the time of making resolutions, but why would you wait until then? I believe, if you want to start something you must do it right away otherwise you never will.
Written on Friday, 11 November 2022 14:05
What is Android Automotive OS and How Automotive Companies Can Use The Operating System
An operating system is necessary to manage computer hardware and software. Now, when the automotive industry is defined by software, it is also an essential computer system for car manufacturers, OEMs, and automotive service providers.
Written on Friday, 04 November 2022 14:00
Top 5 national parks in Poland by ITS Polish travel agency
Poland by many people is regarded as still very natural and rural country. It may not be true for many regions but it is a fact that there are still many pristine areas in the country.
Written on Wednesday, 02 November 2022 12:07
Which collection of mannequins will be best for your luxury boutique?
A luxury boutique is associated with prestige. However, in order to achieve this prominent effect, it is absolutely necessary to take care of the correct arrangement.
Written on Wednesday, 30 November 2022 12:50
What is the best electric scooter brand for adults?
As people become more environmentally conscious, a new type of vehicle has come up in the market, the electric scooter, otherwise known as an e-scooter. These machines are designed to provide a smooth, eco-friendly, cost-effective mode of personal transportation. Here is a list of the best electric scooter brands available today.
Written on Monday, 28 November 2022 14:13
Renting a car is extremely popular in recent times, as it gives you incredible freedom in planning trips.
Written on Saturday, 26 November 2022 15:15
Startup Accelerator Programs: this is what you need to know
According to the latest reports, there are thousands of startup accelerator programs globally, and their number is increasing every year. Finding the best fit can be challenging for a business.
Written on Saturday, 19 November 2022 12:33
Auto recycling - an eco-friendly approach to car repair
Every car needs repair at some point, and this applies to literally all car models and brands. This is because cars have consumable parts, which simply wear out.
Written on Saturday, 19 November 2022 12:25
Featured Articles
Which collection of mannequins will be best for your luxury boutique?
A luxury boutique is associated with prestige. However, in order to achieve this prominent effect, it is absolutely necessary to take care of the correct arrangement.
Written on Wednesday, 30 November 2022 12:50
What is the best electric scooter brand for adults?
As people become more environmentally conscious, a new type of vehicle has come up in the market, the electric scooter, otherwise known as an e-scooter. These machines are designed to provide a smooth, eco-friendly, cost-effective mode of personal transportation. Here is a list of the best electric scooter brands available today.
Written on Monday, 28 November 2022 14:13
Renting a car is extremely popular in recent times, as it gives you incredible freedom in planning trips.
Written on Saturday, 26 November 2022 15:15
Startup Accelerator Programs: this is what you need to know
According to the latest reports, there are thousands of startup accelerator programs globally, and their number is increasing every year. Finding the best fit can be challenging for a business.
Written on Saturday, 19 November 2022 12:33
Auto recycling - an eco-friendly approach to car repair
Every car needs repair at some point, and this applies to literally all car models and brands. This is because cars have consumable parts, which simply wear out.
| 9,265 |
77 Lubricants produces and sells an extensive selection of high quality lubricants and specialties that are used in a wide range of applications... View Our Catalog 77 Lubricants is a proud international brand that offers a sophisticated product line of the highest quality available in Europe and the Americas. Our Products All products are sold by local distributors and supported by us to make sure we offer the best possible service to end-users. Distributors Commitment and personal support
of our partners and customers is in our DNA. About Us
Learn about our company and our commitment to quality and value.
Our Products
A complete product catalog by category with links to data sheets.
Want to become a distributor, click here for more information.
77 Lubricants is one of the largest independent lubricant brands in Europe. 77 Lubricants produces and markets an extensive range of high-quality lubricants and specialties, which find their way into a wide range of applications. Our products are developed and manufactured by specialists who have a wide variety of base oils and additives, which allows them to develop lubricants that comply with the latest standards of the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and International Standardization Committees.
77 Lubricants products are manufactured in one of the largest and most advanced lubricant plants in the Netherlands. This plant, with an annual production capacity of 130,000 metric tons of finished lubricants, has a storage capacity of 17 million liters, more than 60 tanks for the storage of lubricants and various storage facilities for packaged products.
The best oils in the industry!
77 Lubricants products are manufactured in one of the largest and most advanced lubricant plants in the Netherlands.
| 1,849 |
There are two ways that midwifery theorists could address this problem. They could modify the central claims of midwifery theory (unmedicated vaginal childbirth is best, midwives provides evidence based care, obstetricians ignore scientific evidence) or they could dismiss science. They have taken the second approach with truly laughably results. Their pathetic attempts at dismissing scientific evidence extend from improperly invoking scientific theories of quantum mechanics and chaos theory, which they clearly don’t understand and which have zero applicability to midwifery, to attacks on the notion of randomized controlled trials, to rejecting rationality altogether and insisting that Including the Non-Rational Is Sensible Midwifery.
Simply put, while scientific research seeks to learn, specifically to learn how the human body works and how to maximize healthy outcomes, midwifery research seeks to justify, specifically to justify a primary role for midwives in the delivery of obstetric care and to justify the use of methods and claims not supported by scientific evidence.
Now comes the latest bit of midwifery buffoonery produced by Denis Walsh. You may remember Walsh, a professor of midwifery, as yet another in a line of old white men mansplaining the “benefits” of labor pain to women. Walsh has mangled yet another mainstream theory in a desperate effort to justify ignoring scientific evidence. His new paper, Critical realism: An important theoretical perspective for midwifery research, published in this month’s issue of the journal Midwifery, will no doubt impress other midwives (such big, fancy words!), but real scientists and philosophers would just howl.
According to Walsh:
Midwifery research has grown exponentially over the past 20 years and has been widely disseminated in a range of midwifery and obstetric journals. Research methods that are utilised are increasingly eclectic and reflect the variety of research questions addressing different aspects of childbirth. However conspicuously absent in midwifery journals has been in-depth discussion and debate about the philosophical underpinning of different research methods, though these have taken place in midwifery research texts and other health professions’ journals. The debate asks important questions about the nature of reality (ontology) and how we gain knowledge of it (epistemology). Such a focus is fundamental to research endeavour because unless the right questions are asked about the reality we are attempting to describe, explore or explain, then our knowledge of that reality will remain superficial and impoverished and is less likely to make a difference to childbirth practices and women’s experience. In addition, it can result in research that is inadequately justified, lacks internal coherence and therefore lacks wider credibility.
English translation: Midwifery research is, in large part, nothing more than crap and therefore no one takes us seriously. But even though our research looks crappy, it’s only because no one has explored the deeper philosophical underpinnings.
What is critical realism?
Critical realism is a philosophy of the SOCIAL SCIENCES (not the natural sciences) combines a general philosophy of science (transcendental realism) with a philosophy of social science (critical naturalism) to describe an interface between the natural and social worlds.
It was promulgated by philosopher Roy Bhaskar:
… [W]hen we study the human world we are studying something fundamentally different from the physical world and must therefore adapt our strategy to studying it. Critical naturalism therefore prescribes social scientific method which seeks to identify the mechanisms producing social events, but with a recognition that these are in a much greater state of flux than those of the physical world (as human structures change much more readily than those of, say, a leaf). In particular, we must understand that human agency is made possible by social structures that themselves require the reproduction of certain actions/pre-conditions. Further, the individuals that inhabit these social structures are capable of consciously reflecting upon, and changing, the actions that produce them—a practice that is in part facilitated by social scientific research.
This may make sense in the world of social science research (although there are many other philosophers who would disagree), but midwifery claims are generally natural science claims, so critical realism doesn’t apply.
Walsh doesn’t really care about the validity of invoking critical realism in assessing the validity of midwifery research, he merely intends to use it as an excuse to ignore scientific evidence in favor of midwifery beliefs and intuitions.
Walsh does not like the scientific evidence about dystocia (stalled labor):
An example of this is the current research into dystocia, a complication of labour that is the principal contributor to caesarean section in nulliparous women. Most of the research has explored interventions to speed up labour … The methods utilised in these studies have been randomised controlled trials … [which] promises certainty in addressing the condition, based as they are on a positivist epistemology (knowledge that is always true and generalisable) … However, the incidence of dystocia and its negative consequences for women continues to rise. If researchers had grasped the limitations of their research methods by critiquing their ontological and epistemological underpinning, they might have asked different questions about the aetiology of dystocia, researched different interventions to manage it and ultimately had a greater impact on women’s outcomes and experience.
English to English translations: The large body of scientific literature on dystocia does not support midwives’ intuitions and claims about dystocia.
Never fear! Critical realism supposedly comes to the rescue:
Nine years ago, Anderson began asking different questions about the aetiology of dystocia, suggesting some new categories – organisational dystocia (lack of continuity of care on labour wards), environmental dystocia (clinical, non-homely décor) and interpersonal dystocia (disagreements between labour ward midwives and obstetricians). Of course what she was hinting at were environmental, social and psychological effects that could impinge upon a woman’s ability to labour normally. Later, Downe and McCourt articulated the limitations of studying labour predominantly by using randomised controlled trials (RCT’s) because the theoretical foundations of trials reside in a positivist epistemology based on simplicity, linearity and certainty. However, labour does not unfold with a singular cause and effect physiology (oxytocin secretion therefore cervical dilatation) which then proceeds with regularity (cervix dilates in a constant trajectory) to end with birth at a relatively predictable point (average of 10 hours). It is a much more complex phenomenon which might more accurately be referred to as ‘orderly chaos’. Clearly, experiences like labour are impacted on by multiple factors in the physiological, psychological and social domains. Simply applying quantitative research methods suited to the controlled confines of a laboratory are not going to capture the intricacies of the uncontrolled milieu of a labour ward.
Let’s leave aside for the moment that critical realism has been dismissed on its own terms by philosophers and let’s focus on the relevant facts:
1. The central claims of midwifery theory are not supported by scientific evidence.
2. Midwives have no intention of modifying cherished beliefs just because science shows they are false.
3. There is a desperate, ongoing search among midwifery theorist to justify ignoring scientific evidence.
4. A variety of theories from other disciplines, poorly understood or misunderstood by midwives, are invoke by midwifery theorists to baffle their followers with bullshit.
What should the average pregnant women take away from these bizarre, goofy theoretical justifications? It’s startlingly simple:
If you want science based care in childbirth, stick with obstetricians.
View all posts by Amy Tuteur, MD →
Subscribe to our e-mail newsletter to receive updates.
Related Posts:
Oops! Wrongly done and poorly done tongue tie surgery.
January 17, 2014: this week in homebirth idiocy →
331 Responses to “Midwifery theory gets ever more goofy”
Log in to Reply
itry2brational
March 28, 2014 at 7:17 pm #
“Midwifery theory”? Hardly, Critical Theory is promulgated by feminists in women’s studies programs.
“Popular methodologies within the field of women’s studies include standpoint theory, intersectionality,multiculturalism, transnational feminism, autoethnography, and reading practices associated with CRITICAL THEORY, post-structuralism, and queer theory.” -wiki
Most of the usages of “midwives”/”midwifery” can be replaced with feminists/feminist theory and it works equally well…actually better since most of the NCB movement is buttressed and founded on feminism and its theories.
“[feminism] has a serious problem. A lot of its central claims simply aren’t supported by science.” -True
“Let’s leave aside for the moment that critical realism has been dismissed on its own terms by philosophers…”
But oddly not dismissed by feminist academics and women’s studies programs.
“1. The central claims of [feminist] theory are not supported by scientific evidence. check
2. [feminists] have no intention of modifying cherished beliefs just because science shows they are false. check
3. There is a desperate, ongoing search among [feminist] theorist to justify ignoring scientific evidence. check
4. A variety of theories from other disciplines, poorly understood or misunderstood by [feminists], are invoke by [feminist] theorists to baffle their followers with bullshit.” check
“Feminism and Power: the Need for Critical Theory therefore argues that the critical theories of Theodor Adorno and Jacques Derrida have much to offer feminism, and a feminist understanding of female empowerment.”
Ah, Jacques Dirrada, now there’s a name in feminism from way back.
^^^All of the above links come from just the first page of a google search: “‘Critical theory’ feminism”
I’ve encountered doctoral papers by feminist philosophy students which promulgate nonrational ways of knowing. The first dealt with “birth rape”. Women are getting their PhDs on this garbage…and we are helping pay to educate them.
Your biggest problem is not being able to see the nose on your own face: feminism is the problem with the NCB movement. It drives it, guides it, provides the BS theories it uses and is almost entirely, if not entirely, composed of feminists and women can’t resist the empowerment message. Feminists run the show. Many of the most popular, if not all, pro-NCB blogs and sites are adamantly feminist or they even use it in their titles.
“For educated, independent women, these choices may come from a FEMINIST sensibility that leads them to reject a paternalistic and technological model of birth. For other women, birth choices may be “driven by God.”
So regardless of which ideology/religion you choose or adhere to, both will lead you to make poor decisions. The educated(smart), independent, feminist woman still makes the same mistake(s) as a woman who believes in a magic man in the sky.
Log in to Reply
January 20, 2014 at 1:51 pm #
Dr. Amy, I’d like to know your opinion on English Midwife’s statement below:
“physiology is affected by environment, emotions, psychology, all robust
findings that can be supported by a raft of psychological research”.
In principle I agree with this. Of course the problem begins when emotions and (supposed) psychology turn into the excuse to justify not science-based practice.
But on the other hand, shouldn’t these aspects be taken into account by scientific research? Does this happen already, or could this become a perspective for further studies on physiology?
Log in to Reply
Amy Tuteur, MD
January 20, 2014 at 3:09 pm #
I’m not aware of any research, psychological or otherwise, that has have been able to demonstrate any predictable, reproducible effect of environment, emotions, etc. on any aspect of childbirth.
I realize that it is an article of faith among natural childbirth advocates that emotions affect labor, but they basically made that up.
Log in to Reply
January 20, 2014 at 5:35 pm #
And now a plea to natural childbirth advocates: if you don’t agree with Dr.Amy, if you are sure that such reproducible effect does exist and has been demonstrated, please QUOTE.
Log in to Reply
English Midwife
January 19, 2014 at 5:45 am #
For someone arguing logic and science you are very rude, and irrationally angry. For you to dismiss the idea that physiology is not affected by psychological and emotional factors is to ignore a huge body of research in the field of psychology. As far as your scientific evidence about labour progress, scientific evidence can be distorted to support all sorts of intervention. RCOG guidelines on supposed labour dystocia rate their own evidence level for instrumental delivery due to slow progress as level 2, sounds good until you read the table, cleverly labelling all evidence levels +++1, ++1, +1, 1 +++2, ++2, +2 and 2. The evidence level in for this very oft used intervention of assisted delivery based on a time limit for the second stage is based on retrospective case studies, small sample sizes, described in the guidelines as having a very high likelihood of bias!! In addition, the ‘science’ behind EFM continues to show an increased level of intervention without any reduction in neonatal mortality yet it is still used. Good well trained midwives don’t ignore the evidence base, but they will continue to challenge obstetric practices that are based on poor evidence. I wonder if your irrational and highly unbalanced diatribe has anything to do with the fact that in your country maligning midwives is about protecting your own highly lucrative income
Log in to Reply
January 19, 2014 at 6:35 am #
I’m having difficulty finding it.
Log in to Reply
January 19, 2014 at 6:44 am #
Oh, got it.
It is the Operative Vaginal Delivery guidance and the relevant paper is Cheung et al. The evidence is 2- because other studies haven’t been done and the Cheung data is pooled data from a single institution between 1976 to 2001, which makes it less reliable.
Log in to Reply
January 19, 2014 at 6:57 am #
And…
Good luck getting an ethics committee to approve a RCT where one arm of the study is randomised to expectant management of a prolonged (>4hr) second stage.
January 20, 2014 at 5:12 am #
Exactly what I was thinking! (Yay, I shared a thought with Dr Kitty! She’s a doctor! And really clever!). How the heck are we going to get any better evidence? And how do you explain away the damaged babies doomed … sorry randomised … to open-ended 2nd stage? Or damaged mothers for that matter? Does English Midwife not realise that by this time, most mothers WANT their labour over and done with? And are grateful for the intervention? Sheeshety sheesh-sheesh.
English Midwife
January 20, 2014 at 5:51 am #
There is a vast difference between an open ended 2nd stage and one strictly controlled by rigid guidelines based on poor evidence. There are also many levels of evidence and +++1 an RCT is a raft away from the -2 evidence used to justify this intervention. Which incidentally is recommended according to those guidelines after 1 hour for a multip, not 4!
January 20, 2014 at 6:31 am #
And as you also know, hospital staff work primarily with PEOPLE, not policies/protocols. We midwives advocate for our clients, and most obstetric registrars these days will have a discussion with the labouring woman before making a decision, taking into account each case’s unique set of circumstances, eg mum and baby’s wellbeing, mum’s wishes, presence/availability of regional anaesthesia, exact progress and station, midwife’s opinion etc etc. It’s never, Well it’s been this long, so this has to happen.
January 20, 2014 at 9:13 am #
The obstetrician might well say, “If there’s no progress in an hour, you’re going to need an intervention.”
A patient who is primed by the NCB movement hears,”I’m going to section you because I’m late for dinner.”
In fact, the doctor means, “If there’s no progress in an hour, I don’t think there ever will be,” or, “You and your baby can’t endure much more of this without danger.”
The good thing about electronic fetal monitoring is that it lets doctors say, “Well, sure, your labor is taking longer than average, but you’re making some progress, and the baby is still fine. You can keep going a while longer.”
January 20, 2014 at 2:14 pm #
Exactly. It’s an holistic assessment, with room for negotiation; mum’s wishes are an important part of that.
January 20, 2014 at 6:34 am #
P.s. most primips I’ve cared for in labour have WANTED help getting their baby out, and the very, very few multips I’ve seen get an instrumental have all needed and wanted it. It’s so unusual, there is normally a good reason.
January 20, 2014 at 6:34 am #
“The time constraints listed in Table 2 are therefore for guidance. The question of when to intervene should involve balancing the risks and benefits of continuing pushing versus an operative delivery”
randomised controlled trials or randomised controlled trials with a high risk of bias”
So the best you can hope for is 2++, which requires case-control and cohort studies with a low chance of bias.
Any thoughts on how, EXACTLY you would design that study case-control study or cohort study? How you would remove bias and prove causation?
Because the cases where OBS were happy to allow extended second stage may be different from the ones in which they were keener to intervene, and the women who refused OVD and preferred to keep pushing may be different from women who accepted the offer of intervention.
The evidence we have may not be fantastic, but realistically it is what we have to work with and I’m not sure how to make it better.
Would love to know your ideas.
Log in to Reply
January 19, 2014 at 9:04 am #
For someone arguing logic and science you are very rude
For someone complaining about logic and rationality, you are one big non-sequitor
Log in to Reply
January 20, 2014 at 5:06 am #
Sorry Bofa. As you were. Ignore me.
Log in to Reply
January 20, 2014 at 5:02 am #
English Midwife, US obstetricians already care for the vast majority of pregnant women, and most are salaried, meaning that the odd home or birth centre birth makes no dent in their income. It’s like saying that if you’re a salaried staff midwife in the UK, your income will suffer if a woman checks into the Portland for private treatment, so UK midwives have to try their best to persuade women never to go private.
Doesn’t make sense, does it? If, on the other hand, I tell you that lay midwives in the US are NOT salaried, and depend on every single birth for their income, you have to admit it puts a rather different complexion on it (you’ll have to imagine me saying all this in a very clipped RP accent for added affect). Now who is protecting their financial interests? Those lay midwives/birth junkies, that’s who. And if you think obstetricians rely on poor quality evidence, is it really the answer to use no evidence at all?
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:44 pm #
Question raised by some of the discussion below – Why do people claim diet and lifestyle changes are “simple?” I’ve made many – they are WAY harder than a simple pill.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:46 pm #
They are simple. They are not, however, easy!
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:42 am #
I wonder if Louis Pasteur sat around contemplating the ontological and epistemological implications of his work or whether he instead satisfied himself with the millions (perhaps billions now?) of lives his research and discoveries had saved and would continue to save.
The thing I don’t understand is don’t these people read Dickens or Austen? We can sit around and chat about epistemology all day; it doesn’t change the fact that modern medical practices derived from randomized controlled trials have saved countless lives and rendered the spectre of the mother who died in childbirth, a literary device so common as to be cliché, a thing of the past.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:47 am #
I was reading some classic Sherlock Holmes. Holmes looks out the window, sees a young man in dressed in mourning doing some household shopping and buying a baby rattle, and concludes that, since he’s doing his own shopping, it’s his wife who’s dead, and, since he has a little baby, she died in childbirth.
It’s all over the place in classic literature: Deaths in childbirth were commonplace.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 11:31 am #
I just watched “Wuthering Heights” on instant video the other day…literally EVERY mother who gave birth in that miniseries, died in childbirth. Every single one. Granted, it’s a literary exaggeration, but I’m betting the Bronte sisters were well acquainted with this phenomenon as well. (And for fans of the Walking Dead…the miniseries is well worth watching, if only to hear the Sheriff speak in his native accent.)
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:12 pm #
I’m reading Bully Pulpit, the new Doris Kearns Goodwin bio of T.R. and Taft. It might as well be called Everyone You Love Will Die of Typhoid or Eclampsia.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:28 pm #
Heck, you don’t even need history. You just have to listen to your friends’ birth stories with an open mind and some actual knowledge.
In a one-year period ending just after I got pregnant with Baby CC Prof, four of my friends bore sons. All had a major problem of some kind.
A few generations ago, two of them would definitely have died, baby and all (HELLP, severe placenta previa). One would have had an uneventful pregnancy and birth, then watched the baby turn blue and die within a few days (congenital heart defect). Friend #4 might or might not have been OK. (Hypertension) That’s 5-7 deaths out of 4 mothers and 4 babies.
Instead, I have 4 healthy friends who have 3 perfect babies, and one baby who still has problems, but will most likely grow up and lead a relatively normal life.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:32 pm #
Yeah, I had two friends within a month need c-sections for transverse breech.
Log in to Reply
January 18, 2014 at 11:03 am #
Way back, renal failure as a result of PIH was well-known and probably accounted for not a few of the post-partum wasting deaths. I found an old book written by a physician who started practicing in 1875. Basically, they watched babies and mothers die. There was very little that was actually effective
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:38 pm #
When I prepared for my second home birth, my midwife told my partner a story about an irresponsible lay midwife (despite being a CPM, my midwife was actually relatively non-woo – emphasis on relatively – and relatively well educated as far as I can tell, and I had parallel prenatal care from an OB she had an agreement with). Anyway, she told my partner about that lay midwife who had a woman die in labor in my state a few years prior. I was very pregnant at the time, and very anxious about my own upcoming labor, and I started to cry because I just couldn’t fathom the horror of someone being in so much pain, and then dying in so much pain.
It is no wonder people used to be scared of child birth. Not just that it was really dangerous; death in child birth is about one of the most horrible ways I can imagine dying. And it used to be so common.
I am so glad we live in a different era today.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 8:24 am #
Sounds like we have entered the era of post-modernist obstetrics.
Log in to Reply
Amy Tuteur, MD
January 17, 2014 at 12:37 am #
OT:
Does anyone have any experience with the Japanese system of maternity care? Someone write to me privately seeking advice, but I know very little about it.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 2:52 am #
Good outcomes, long hospital stays, paternalistic care is my sum knowledge.
Hopefully someone else knows more.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 4:48 am #
Oh, and that Japan has the lowest incidence of natural twin conceptions. But I’m sure you knew that.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 9:31 am #
January 17, 2014 at 9:40 am #
Incidence of natural identical twinning is the same worldwide, fraternal twinning varies greatly between ethnic groups. The highest incidence is in Nigeria.
January 17, 2014 at 2:26 pm #
Thanks. Fascinating, but hardly surprising that it is fraternal, or that it should be highest in a country where people tend to marry within their tribe and so strengthen the genetic component.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 6:38 am #
I was flipping through this book. The author lost his first wife (Japanese, in Japan) because she went to the hospital, miscarried, staff missed signs of an infection while she was in the hospital and she developed sepsis. And died. All of this happened while she was an inpatient, which is shocking to me.
I don’t know much about the system, but stories imply that Japan has similar problems to other NHS type systems due to low staffing.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:46 am #
We used to have a poster here who delivered there. Her name was Charlotte
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:05 pm #
I read from another blog (in Chinese) that the Japanese system was expensive but the OB takes good care of you. Each hospital has its own system so they have to do their homework. For some reason, they are very focus on the mother’s weight gain. She got ding because she gained 2 kg more then “she supposed to”.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:12 pm #
I found a link about the system of japanese midwifery care while doing research on my Debunking The Business of Being Born series on my ex home birthers blog. http://www.nurse.or.jp/jna/english/midwifery/pdf/mij2011.pdf
Log in to Reply
January 20, 2014 at 2:30 am #
I don’t have any direct experience, but have had the opportunity to care for quite a few women who have had children in Japan – both complicated and uncomplicated pregnancies. Their experiences are very interesting and very paternalistic. The whole expectation around having babies and maternal roles are overwhelming. My husband is part Japanese and as interesting insights into the country.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 11:52 pm #
I know a HBM who told me that she didn’t believe in evidence based practice. Because, you know the evidence in obstetrics doesn’t exactly support her practice.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 11:01 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 10:46 pm #
I have a graduate degree and about 20 years of increasingly responsible work experience. I’ve traveled the world, spoken other languages, lived and studied in many different places. My IQ doesn’t make me a genius but I’m no dummy. Yet even with all of that, I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT THIS MAN IS SAYING. If one has to construct a bunch of blather like this, words so tortured and convoluted in a weary effort to appear “scientific” and “smart,” then surely, the author had nothing of value to say at all. And I’m a lawyer (non-practising, thank you) so I can appreciate the art of saying something simple in 100xs as many words. But even then, we evil attorneys know how to make our verbosity worth your while. This, however, is pure garbage – as is typical of this faux movement. (Brava to Dr. Amy for having the patience to translate.)
Log in to Reply
Lisa from NY
January 16, 2014 at 11:38 pm #
But you can only figure that out because of your high IQ (probably genius).
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:24 am #
The deliberate use of jargon and polysyllabic nonsense words to obfusticate simple meanings is a distinctive feature of the ignorant attempting to sound intelligent. Ever since nursing stopped being a profession based on a training program leading to a diploma and became an “academic” profession, I’ve noticed the explosion of such language, often the higher the degree of the writer, the more obscure the writing.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 11:34 am #
We utilize overwrought prose to obfuscate statements among of-age persons from the auditory range of precocious offspring who are prematurely able to cogitate words spelled in his vicinity.
(Spell i-c-e-c-r-e-a-m and he knows. Chilled high fat dairy, on the other hand…)
Log in to Reply
English Midwife
January 19, 2014 at 5:55 am #
This man is a trained obstetrician like the charming one who rights this blog. This man is saying quite simply and clearly that physiology is affected by environment, emotions, psychology, all robust findings that can be supported by a raft of psychological research. This man is saying that studying a human being in labour in a RCT measuring the purely physical events and ignoring the context is superficial science and will not examine the confounding variables that affect labour such as the woman’s emotional state and her environment. Would have thought being a lawyer you could have worked that out quite easily, reads very clearly to me
Log in to Reply
January 19, 2014 at 7:03 am #
He’s not an obstetrician, actually.
Dr Denis Walsh is a midwife with a PhD in the Birth Centre Model.
Log in to Reply
January 19, 2014 at 9:25 am #
But the thing is, you don’t need psychological research and theory. You can directly test the effects of different environments on the progress of labor. Any trials on that? Please do be specific.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 10:35 pm #
I do believe this site has spoiled me for rational discussions. I can no longer take people serious that buy into the NCB philosophy or the whole it’s just natural. Take this comment on one my friends facebook posts about amber necklaces for babies.
“Even if a bead does come off, and even if baby does swallow it, choking is very, very unlikely because the beads are so small. It’s amber, and non toxic. It will just pass right through the baby.. No biggie. :)”
Really, It’s not a biggie if you babies swallows beads? There isn’t a possibility they might choke on it? Help me to understand this. Please.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 10:36 pm #
Sorry for the OT post. Maybe this one falls more under the Attachment parenting post?
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 9:07 am #
Thank you the comments. I was starting to think it was just me!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 11:31 pm #
Even if your baby does get to your cigarette pack, and even if baby does swallow it, tobacco is natural. It will just pass right through the baby. No biggie.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:06 am #
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:46 am #
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 1:35 am #
I have also been spoiled. Now I am struggling to have a logical discussion with my mother who keeps telling me to take our (now) 7month old to the homeopath because he’s gotten 3 infections since starting day care and “wouldn’t I rather he have something natural?”. Because, you know, natural is always better.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 1:45 am #
You should remind her that infections are natural.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 8:21 am #
I have this discussion with my daughter on a regular basis. Despite being quite intelligent she has, at 19, bought into the “it’s natural, its organic, its not full of chemicals, ergo it’s better”.
And while I understand wanting to know where your food comes from and how it was raised/what went into its production, there has to be a balance.
Natural doesn’t necessarily mean good or better than man made or laboratory produced.
Or as I tell her: Arsenic is natural, radon is natural, dying from tetanus is natural if you you don’t get immunized. Not to anthropomorphize too much but basically, Mother Nature is often trying her best to kill you.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 10:45 am #
That’s all true, but my father in law controls his diabetes with diet and exercise rather than drugs or insulin. And he was literally near death when he was diagnosed.
Society seems to be addicted to the “quick fix”, forgetting how much of a different simple lifestyle changes can make. We’d much rather take a pill than get some exercise and eat healthy foods.
This doesn’t fix all health problems obviously, but if you could control a disease that simply, would you? Or would you take the drugs (that can be very expensive) and continue to live a sedentary life, eating unhealthy food? Unfortunately, I think a lot of people would choose the later.
January 17, 2014 at 11:14 am #
Why do so many people decry the ‘quick fix’ supposedly supplied by drugs? Are lifestyle changes morally superior to drugs? In many cases yes, I’d rather ‘pop a pill’ than take the long way round, whether my problem is depression or diabetes. So sue me. Lifestyle changes are often far more expensive than drugs, take longer, and may not be feasible at this point in time. By all means eschew drugs, but don’t fool yourself that your choice makes you a better, more moral person. It ain’t so.
January 17, 2014 at 11:19 am #
And of course, lifestyle changes work for some people with Type 2 diabetes, but other folks need pills or insulin also, no matter how careful they are with their lifestyle. It depends how far advanced the disease is.
And there are many diseases that simply can’t be managed with lifestyle changes. Like cancer.
January 17, 2014 at 1:35 pm #
This whole conversation showed “guest” as Dr Kitty. I thought it was some kind of tongue-in-cheek satire and was very confused by the genuine responses she received.
It wasn’t until Dr. Kitty posted a question about her seventh pregnancy in the newer thread that I realized something was up.
January 17, 2014 at 3:43 pm #
Yeah…Disqus is weird and I only have one child!
Personall, I think kids should primarily be treated by psychological therapies where feasible, but I firmly believe medication has a role in child and adolescent mental illness.
January 18, 2014 at 1:39 pm #
To be fair to guest, there’s a pretty big debate going on in the psychiatric community about medication use in children. Check out this report from American Psychological Association on the use of psychtropic drugs in children
Despite recent advances in treatment research, significant knowledge gaps remain…Most of the evidence for efficacy is limited to acute symptomatic improvement, with only limited attention paid to functional outcomes, long-term durability, and safety of treatments. Few studies have been conducted in practice settings, and little is known about the therapeutic benefits of intervention under usual, or real-life, conditions.
…
For most of the disorders reviewed herein, there are psychosocial treatments that are solidly grounded in empirical support as stand-alone treatments. The preponderance of available evidence indicates that psychosocial treatments are safer than psychoactive medications. Thus, the working group recommends that in most cases psychosocial interventions be considered first.
January 19, 2014 at 9:12 am #
But if that would have been her approach, or if she had specified that medication of kids was “debatable,” it would have been very different.
However, she came with her claims that it’s not just kids, but that we are an overmedicated society, and the basis for her claim ultimately turned out to be one anecdote.
None of that is addressed by your comment.
Moreover, your comment does NOT address the question of overall “over medication.”
Are there kids being treated with something they probably shouldn’t be? Almost undoubtedly so. Shoot, there are adults who are, as well.
But that doesn’t mean society is over medicated. As I have noted, it could mean that those people should be on different medications, not necessarily no meds. And it ignores people who aren’t medicated that should be.
Could our medicines be improved? Sure. Does that mean that we have too many of them? Absolutely not.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 11:29 am #
It has nothing to do with morality or anyone being a better person for choosing lifestyle changes over drugs and I never said that it did. We seem to be an over medicated society at this point and not all of the drugs out on the market have been safety tested over the long term to see if they do damage over the years or decades.
I don’t advocate for quick fixes with natural remedies either. Quite often, the quick fixes are just too good to be true.
I also said that it doesn’t work for all diseases or all people. But by making healthy lifestyle changes as simple as diet and exercise, you reap so many other benefits that a pill to, say, lower cholesterol, can do, isn’t it worth the effort?
January 17, 2014 at 11:33 am #
We seem to be an over medicated society at this point. It has nothing to do with morality or anyone being a better person for choosing lifestyle changes over drugs
but
We seem to be an over medicated society at this point
In what way? And if we are an “over medicated society” then why aren’t people who eschew drugs making it better?
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 11:38 am #
Little kids on anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medication comes to mind…
January 17, 2014 at 11:40 am #
On what basis do you claim they are over medicated?
You might claim they are “improperly” medicated, but that does not mean there is not a better medication that they could be taking, or SHOULD be taking.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 11:50 am #
I can’t speak to whether a particular child should be medicated or not, but their brains are still developing at young ages.
Children can suffer from mental illnesses, but they are notoriously difficult to diagnose in small children, hence my belief (notice I said my believe, not my fact) based on articles I’ve read (by psychiatric professionals), is that they seem to over or improperly medicated. Maybe improperly medicated would be more appropriate as that could cover over medicated as well.
January 17, 2014 at 11:54 am #
Of course not, because that would mean you couldn’t get away with making up generalizations.
It’s REAL easy to say, “Oh, we are overmedicated” but as soon as you get called out on it, you can’t actually come up with any real examples of someone being medicated who shouldn’t be.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:01 pm #
Ok, fine. My niece is one. Had horrible experiences with all the medications various psychiatrists had her on. They didn’t help with any of her emotional problems and created new ones now. She had been on them from about age 14-18. She’s now 22 and off all anti-depressants, goes to therapy, exercises and eats healthy. She’s also out of puberty, so was that a misdiagnosis? Over medicated, under medicated or improperly medicated? All we knew was she was worse on the drugs.
I’ve also heard from parents whose kids were on meds for ADD or ADHD, got worse on the drugs, then got better after a few years. Maybe they grew out of it?
What I meant by the comment you quoted was that I’m not a psychiatrist, so I can’t speak about any children I might be treating.
January 17, 2014 at 12:05 pm #
If your niece was worse on medication than off it, why did she take it?
Is it possible that her puberty was particularly rough and antidepressants helped keep her alive so that she could sort herself out when she calmed down?
If your friends could see that their kids were worse on ritalin or adderall, why did they give it to them?
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:12 pm #
My niece: The docs kept saying it would get better or this new medication would work, in the meantime she was suicidal, cutting and unable to deal with her younger siblings.
The parents: They did take them off, but it was going against the advice of their docs, so they hesitated to do it for a long time, hoping that the doc was right and things would improve.
January 18, 2014 at 9:54 am #
You have no way of knowing that the meds didn’t help keep her from getting worse. I spent several years on anti-depressants as an older teenager where I was still depressed as hell, but I know from the times I tried to go off them or ran out of meds, that the meds *were helping*. I was just that sick.
Also, would it kill you to say “self-harming” instead of baldly describing what she did? This might surprise you, but there’s lots of us out there who used to self-harm, and no matter how long we’ve been in recovery, it can be distinctly upsetting to run into graphic terms in places we don’t expect them.
January 20, 2014 at 10:31 am #
If she had suicidal ideation and was cutting, then she almost certainly needed medication and intensive therapy.
January 17, 2014 at 12:07 pm #
You don’t “outgrow” ADHD and ADD. You learn to better manage your life and the problems ADD & ADHD cause. It’s never goes away and you cannot be cured. Medication can help some people. See also: insulin dependent vs lifestyle/diet for diabetes.
January 17, 2014 at 3:08 pm #
But how do you not know that the problem is not that she is medicated, but that she has the wrong medication?
“over medicated” means there are people that are being medicated that should not be. It does not mean that they should be taking something else.
That we don’t have the right medication for a given treatment doesn’t mean that medication is improper, but could mean that we need to find the right medication.
January 20, 2014 at 9:26 am #
Finding the right “fit” for psychiatric medications is very difficult. It took four to find the right one for me, and by the time I was switched to the fourth, I was ready to throw in the towel on that option. Fortunately, we finally found the right one, and I began to stabilize enough to make good gains in therapy.
Some people are able to get of anti-depressants, and it is possible that your niece never should have had them prescribed. I used to think that I wouldn’t need to take them eventually. I was weaned down to a very low dose, and slid into the worst depressive episode of my life. I now know that I will always need to take them, and I’m okay with that. I would rather pop a pill every day than get to the point where my husband and children might be in the position of finding my dead body.
January 20, 2014 at 10:00 am #
I was worse on the first medication I tried and I couldn’t engage in therapy any more. My therapist suggested that I go off the meds so that I could engage in therapy again. My psychiatrist (at the time) told me there was no point in switching to a different medication because all meds have side effects and at least I wasn’t suicidal any more so that was good, right? My GP gave me permission to stop therapy if it wasn’t helping, and suggested I switch meds. Which I did and which was one of the best decisions I ever made in my life.
Of note, my therapist and psychiatrist primarily dealt with pediatrics (long story). They were very firmly anti-med, pro-therapy and so on. This was completely inappropriate for mid-thirties me for various reasons I won’t go into. This suggests to me something about the culture around pediatric psychiatry. If your niece was getting medication it was probably because she needed more than “deal with it.” Maybe the alternatives weren’t great, but it sounds like whoever was treating her was very worrried about her.
January 17, 2014 at 11:59 am #
Do you believe that the prescribers are unaware that the children’s brains are still developing?
Amy Tuteur, MD
January 17, 2014 at 12:09 pm #
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:20 pm #
Looks interesting. Comments are interesting as well.
January 17, 2014 at 12:26 pm #
That was awesome. Thank you posting that!
January 17, 2014 at 12:24 pm #
Yes. Medicating children is a difficult task. It becomes especially hard as they hit adolescent. That does’t mean that kids should not be treated for their mental illness with medication. It means they should be carefully monitored for side-effects and that responsible adults will way those side-effects against the benefits for the child.
I’m pretty sure the kid I taught that said he was happy now that the bad voices went away would tell you he was medicated just right.
January 17, 2014 at 11:46 am #
Because deeply emotionally distressed children who are too young to process things through talking therapies should have NO treatment?
Or do you think children can never suffer from mental illnesses?
January 17, 2014 at 11:58 am #
How do you know they are over-medicated? Have you examined them yourself? What do you know about the alternatives?
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:04 pm #
Again, I thought we could comment on our beliefs here? I’ve stated why I believe them. I’m not trying to convince anyone that they need to believe what I believe, just adding another opinion to the discussion.
January 17, 2014 at 12:08 pm #
Sure, but it helps if you can define your beliefs in a way that other people can understand them, and if you have something to support them with.
Some beliefs are better founded than others. If your belief is well-founded then I’ll be happy to adopt it. If I can’t even figure out what your belief is, it’s hard for me to learn something new.
January 17, 2014 at 12:09 pm #
State your opinion here, sure. But we are NOT a “support only” board.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:13 pm #
“Support only” board? Does that mean if I don’t agree I shouldn’t post?
January 17, 2014 at 12:15 pm #
Nope! It means that if other people disagree, they will argue. We try to stay polite, and avoid personal attacks, but we WILL argue with your ideas.
There’s nothing wrong with disagreement. We like debate, we all learn from it.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:40 pm #
That’s what I’m trying to do, argue and learn. It seems like there are some people who are more polite than others and also some that read the point of my posts a little more clearly than others as well.
January 17, 2014 at 3:36 pm #
Nobody’s being impolite or mean. We’re asking you to clarify your thinking. When we ask how you know something, we really mean it. How do you know?
Maybe the answer is that you don’t really know but it seems right. That happens a lot to all of us if we’re living life right — that is, exposing ourselves to new things.
Maybe the answer is that you do know, and then you can share your knowledge and we can learn something, which would be cool.
January 17, 2014 at 12:31 pm #
I’m sorry, but I clearly, and in ALL CAPS, said NOT a support only board.
January 17, 2014 at 3:15 pm #
Who has told you not to post?
You are the one complaining about us posting in response to your comments.
No one has complained about you posting. They have only questioned the validity of what you have said and the conclusions derived from them. That’s not impolite, that’s discussion.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 3:44 pm #
Guess I took some of these personally then. It’s really hard to give examples of things I’ve seen myself or heard people say about their own lives to then be told that those experiences aren’t valid.
I’m new to posting/discussing on blogs and you guys are a tough crowd!
January 17, 2014 at 7:30 pm #
I don’t know what that means, “the experiences aren’t valid.”
No one has questioned your experiences. Your conclusions based on those experience, OTOH, have been called completely into question.
Yes, we are a tough crowd. You can’t just make shit up and expect us to accept it.
January 17, 2014 at 2:59 pm #
I thought we could comment on our beliefs here?
So why are you complaining about us doing it?
January 17, 2014 at 12:20 pm #
Yes. Little kids are over medicated because you know only adults have mental health issues.
January 18, 2014 at 11:11 am #
You know, I was passively-actively suicidal/self-injurious from first grade til my 40s. It might have been nice to have been medicated as a kid.
January 17, 2014 at 2:03 pm #
If a physician has prescribed it for them, presumably they thought it was needed/justified/warranted? Do you presume you know each kid’s clinical situation better than them, their doctor, their parents?
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 2:14 pm #
Read the rest of the comments. The parents I was talking about were unhappy with the treatment and knew it wasn’t working, but it took time for them to realize they had to go against their doctors’ orders or get a second opinion.
January 17, 2014 at 2:30 pm #
The very specific case of your niece is what prompted you to generalise about ‘little kids on anti-depressants and anti-anxiety meds’? Rather a big leap?
January 17, 2014 at 1:53 pm #
January 17, 2014 at 11:47 am #
Homeopathy instead of antibiotics to treat ear infections contracted in a daycare has nothing to do with natural or not-natural except in the sense that homeopathy is supernatural and antibiotics are natural. The more relevant point is that antibiotics work and homeopathy does not.
Diet and exercise are the first-line recommendations for *everyone* with diabetes, hypertension or risk factors for heart disease. A lot of public health goes into trying to figure out why people have bad diets and don’t exercise and what we can do about it. Your father-in-law was presumably counselled on diet and exercise by his doctor. The point is not that it’s “natural,” it’s that it’s effective and low-risk. Something can be “natural” (by some arbitrary definition of the term) and also ineffective and high-risk. Something can also be “unnatural” (by some arbitrary definition of the term) and be effective and low-risk.
What we are all looking for is effective and low-risk. “Natural” and “unnatural” are esthetic considerations.
January 18, 2014 at 12:06 am #
Bring on the over-medicalised society. 9 years ago there was no effective treatment for my rare disease and now they have developed more options and better targeted medication. It’s awesome being able to use technology to help increase my life-span and prevent my daughter suffering the sort of issues that I have.
January 17, 2014 at 11:19 am #
What does science-based treatment of diabetes have to do with homeopathy?
January 17, 2014 at 11:21 am #
Her father does it “naturally” and that is better than everyone who uses drugs.
Or something like that.
I mean, it certainly wouldn’t have anything to do with a strawman about how not everything natural is bad or anything.
January 17, 2014 at 11:25 am #
January 17, 2014 at 11:29 am #
Her father isn’t doing homeopathy
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 11:33 am #
People were talking about using natural remedies. I was speaking to that.
January 17, 2014 at 11:33 am #
She brought up “my father-in-law is successfully managing his type II diabetes with science-based methods” to defend palma fm’s mother. “Now I am struggling to have a logical discussion with my mother who keeps telling me to take our (now) 7month old to the homeopath because he’s gotten 3 infections since starting day care and “wouldn’t I rather he have something natural?”. Because, you know, natural is always better.”
January 17, 2014 at 12:23 pm #
Alhough a healthy diet and exercise works for about 25 percent of people who have diabetes I am not sure what you expect the other 75 percent to do.
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 12:42 pm #
Then they use the medication. I’ve used medication for various conditions in the past, I’m obviously not against it. I haven’t found a way to get off my thyroid medication, but if I can, I will. I just prefer not to take anything that I don’t have to. Having said that, I’ll keep taking it if I need to.
January 17, 2014 at 12:28 pm #
Cholesterol is largely influenced by genetics. There is a significant proportion of people who can have a BMI of 21, run 50miles a week and eat a low fat diet and will still hate cholesterol which puts their Qrisk above 20%.
Statins can save lives when prescribed appropriately.
January 17, 2014 at 9:17 pm #
Why is it unfortunate if people take the pill instead of exercising? If it solves the problem and they’re happy who gives a poop?
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 6:19 am #
Tell her you decided to save time and money by giving him sugar and water at home.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 9:19 am #
Nothing natural about homeopathy, anyway.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:25 am #
What about being garotted by the necklace if it should catch on something and tighten around the baby’s neck?
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:15 am #
The people who have mommy businesses on etsy who make them claim that it’s a “breakaway clasp.” Of course, there’s no testing whatsoever of this. I wish the CPSC would crack down, but they probably don’t have the resources.
Log in to Reply
January 18, 2014 at 2:52 pm #
Which is why some pediatricians, from what I’ve heard, tell parents to wrap the amber necklace around their baby’s ankle if they are determined to use one.
Log in to Reply
Guest
January 17, 2014 at 10:41 am #
My daughter wore an amber necklace pretty much the whole time she was teething. I have no idea why it works, but while she wore it, no drool and very little pain/fussiness. We lost it for about a month when her back molars came in and she was a different kid. The drool was uncontrollable! When we found it again and put it back on her, no more drool or fussiness. We never had a problem with it coming apart, breaking or her getting it caught on anything.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:26 pm #
Or maybe the molars are the most painful teeth, and that coincidentally was when you lost the necklace, and by the time you found it again, she was over it.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:33 pm #
I had one of those kids who never fussed or drooled with her teeth.
If I’d had an amber necklace or used homeopathic tooth powders I could have attributed that fact to them.
As it was, she got nothing more exciting than carrot sticks, and it is rather hard to monetise that as a teething remedy!
January 17, 2014 at 1:22 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 18, 2014 at 2:07 pm #
Aspirating a foreign body that obstructs a bronchus leading to infection +/- partial collapse? Sounds big enough to want to avoid, to me at least!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:30 pm #
Is anyone besides me reminded of Alan Sokal and “The Einsteinian constant is not a constant, is not a center…”? I’d think this was a parody or a hoax if you hadn’t linked to the source…..
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:53 pm #
Reminds me a lot of the non-rational aspects of Chiropractic – adjusting the spinal Subluxation and removing nerve interference to restore the body’s innate ability to heal.
Then they go looking for evidence to support the philosophical/historical model. So far, none has been found. But don’t let that deter you!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 7:41 pm #
The central premise of NCB (which is demonstrably false) is that childbirth functions smoothly and reliably because womankind has what it takes (the pelvis, the hormones, the reflexes) to do the job. So when it doesn’t work (and it often doesn’t, because human reproduction is remarkably dysfunctional) they are left floundering, looking for what might be needed to restore that ‘primal’ state where birth can occur ‘unhindered’ or something like that.
PSSSTTTT!! Guys! It’s your model. Go back to your original precepts and examine them carefully. THEY ARE WRONG!!!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 10:34 pm #
The problem is, like Chiro, there is too much invested in the model to allow evidence to pull it down. They either won’t look, or will shift the goalposts.
January 19, 2014 at 9:17 am #
As I always say, any profession that regularly defends itself with “not all of us are quacks” is a profession with a serious problem.
See also: midwifery
Log in to Reply
Mrs. W
January 16, 2014 at 11:19 pm #
They apparently believe that for whom it doesn’t work, their fate was deserved.
January 17, 2014 at 9:52 am #
I’ve been rereading some of my NCB books, looking at them through 20/20 hindsight. There is so much language serving to moralize anatomy and bodily functions. I would even say it smacks of eugenics in certain instances.
January 17, 2014 at 9:54 am #
January 17, 2014 at 11:35 am #
I am not able to quote specifically now but the notions such as unmedicated vaginal birth is “right”, a personal choice/lifestyle decision, and that it reflects the character of the mother all place a moral imperative on the manner in which birth occurs. By default, a woman who doesn’t meet the expectations defined by the movement would be committing an immoral act. Or her body- “artificially” resolving complications due to her pelvis or the lie of her placenta- would be viewed as a moral defect. That extends to the baby when there is a preventable death and that’s where lends itself to the idea of eugenics. If mother and baby are not ideal physical specimens, the moral tenets of the natural birth movement inherently preclude their survival.There is even more moralization of breastfeeding, I think.
I’m sorry to present such a vague idea without being able to substantiate it (I’m also covered with little human beings who use me as furniture), it’s just a general thought I’ve been exploring as I’ve reconsidered my past beliefs about childbirth.
January 17, 2014 at 9:56 am #
It would be really interesting. Thanks.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 7:49 pm #
Organizational dystocia, yeah, been there done that. I spent, like, a year trying to get some website updates at work processed. Finally gave up. Clearly the large updates cannot fit through the small, oddly shaped IT department.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 4:59 am #
Did no one suggest surgical intervention?
January 17, 2014 at 9:21 am #
Actually, there was an attempt at surgical intervention: one person was fired. However, the organizational dystocia ran too deep, and her replacement could make no traction.
January 17, 2014 at 9:39 am #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:19 pm #
Critical realism is very much applicable to the natural sciences (or the philosophy of natural sciences), it’s just that I’m not sure it means what he thinks it means. Critical realism is the theory that there is a fundamental reality or truth that science seeks to access, but we’re limited in our ability to access it by the our own fallibility and our perception limited by (for example) language and models based around our day to day experiences that mediate that knowledge. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean you stop trying. It tries to cut a third way between logical positivism that holds up an absolute authoritative truth accessible through science, and the more radical postmodern theories where there is no ultimate reality beyond what’s constructed by our language and perception. This isn’t so much applicable to medicine but it’s very relevant in, say, theoretical physics, where what you’re studying starts to diverge wildly from what can be conceptualised through our day to day experiences of the world.
It’s not about handwaving because everything’s so very complicated that you can believe what you want to believe. I’m also not sure what his broad concept of “dystocia” really means or what the use of bringing together all of those issues, (or indeed playing them off against each other), while individually important, under one umbrella, is, or what it has to do with critical realism. To the extent that what he’s saying has any meaning at all (individual and organisational considerations are important in labour as well as physiological factors) I’m sure it could have been said without all of the long words. But of course what he’s really saying is that he doesn’t like the answer so he’s going to rewrite the question.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:11 pm #
Train wrecks waiting to happen, and they are bragging about it. Since when are twins NOT high risk? So sick of this “variation of normal” crap.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:20 pm #
I am disturbed by the picture of the baby still in its sac. Placenta is detached. How can it breathe??
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:25 pm #
…and the baby that is in his carseat going home….is it just me or are his hands blue?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:57 pm #
They are. The seat looks too upright and that head thing is pushing his head forward.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:27 am #
It can’t. It is asphyxiating.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:28 pm #
Goodness, that is a lot of macrosomic looking blue babies.
Being born “in the caul” is not so good if the placenta detaches before anybody gets you out of it and breathing.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 5:02 am #
And those membranes can be jolly tough! If they’ve survived the first AND second stage of labour, it’s going to take some effort to remove them.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:25 pm #
of course they plan on happy and healthy twins.. that is always the plan,., the way you do it is by having them in a location where you can intervene if there are problems to make sure they are healthy.. sigh
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 10:03 pm #
Another set of twins coming in the spring! Will be Tina’s 4th set.
So reassuring to have an attendant with that level of expertise at your high-risk birth. :
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 9:45 am #
They don’t even say whether all four of those sets turned out okay.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:09 am #
That’s irrelevant. The important thing is, Tina had a great experience.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 7:15 am #
$3,800 paid in full before 36 weeks, no refunds if you transfer care for any reason. And she has 25 credit hours towards a college degree in Psychology!
On the plus side, that is a beautiful building. Perhaps she should have opened a B&B in it.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 9:44 am #
I’d feel really cheesed off if I was the woman who paid all that money and then had my baby eight minutes after arrival…
Mostly I feel sorry for the cold, blue babies doing skin to skin in tubs. They don’t look very happy.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:15 am #
Yeah, the rooms are gorgeous. I’d love to spend a weekend there, relaxing. Not having a baby, though!
Looked at the photo page, an awful lot of the immediate postpartum babies don’t look so good. I especially love the bragging on the photo page about the crazy risks they take. VBAC! Another VBAC! Twins! 10-pounder! (and is it just me or does that 10-pounder have the kind of belly that begs for shoulder dystocia?)
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:21 am #
Did you see the very blue 11lb baby born in the tub to a primip?
Because there is no way THAT could have ended badly…
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:36 am #
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 10:14 am #
There are way too many exclamation points on that FB page.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:32 pm #
The horrifying tale of a woman forced to labor in a room WITH NO WINDOW!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 4:32 pm #
I can’t imagine I’ll even notice if there are windows and what is outside once I am in labor.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 4:44 pm #
I don’t remember if there was a window in the L&D room. We have pictures from being in there (she didn’t deliver, but that was home before the c-section) but I don’t remember.
I know we had windows in post-partum
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 4:53 pm #
I had windows in my labor room but I definitely didn’t care. There came a point where I didn’t care about *anything* any more other than when the damn epidural-giver was going to arrive.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:00 pm #
I loved my windows. For the first, there were stars, for the second, fireworks. Last time, I saw the the dawn and heard birdsong for the last 3 hours or so. Just as he was born, the lorikeets flew over screeching and the magpies + butcher birds broke into song again. It was peaceful, happy and on the third floor of a decent hospital only 30 minutes from the state capital.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 4:59 am #
Sounds lovely- if they were Rainbow Lorikeets it must have looked beautiful.
January 18, 2014 at 1:59 am #
They were Rainbow Lorikeets, but I was focusing on the bub and missed the show. We have some visit our yard regularly, its so much fun to watch their acrobatics.
January 18, 2014 at 2:09 am #
We used to get Rainbow Lorikeets visit our balcony at our flat in Sydney. They were so cheeky and funny (and noisy!).
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:05 pm #
I walked into my L&D room in the middle of a huge contraction, looked out and saw an ocean view through the window and actually thought, “I am really going to appreciate that tomorrow” (L&D and postpartum is done in a single room). Then I got right back to business!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:43 pm #
I can’t remember if my L&D room had a window. My postpartum room did, looking out over the roof onto a highway.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 11:36 pm #
My room had windows. City hospital, curtains open, and they were close-ish to the street. It struck me as odd that here I was, screaming and begging for deliverance, and these people, they just kept on walking by!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:05 pm #
I couldn’t even tell you if there was a window in the room where I labored. I know that there was a fetal monitor and an OR down the hall, though, because I used those.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:13 pm #
The one time I looked out the window during my 30 hour long homebirth was in the diningroom… and what did I think when I looked out…, “When the heck is this gonna end. I’m going to die!” The midwife’s assistant took some picture outside on our farm during my labor because she thought it’d be nice… I really just couldn’t care less… Come to think of it, maybe that’s where she was when the midwife was yelling for her to get oxygen and all that when my son finally got pulled out…
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 5:13 am #
Thought it would be nice to take some photos did she? Wasn’t she there to aid the midwife and support YOU? Did you think it would be nice for her to get some pics, or were you trying to get through unmedicated labour with your life and sanity intact? Sheesh – I feel really indignant on your behalf. And your baby’s.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:39 pm #
My bed was next to the window in the postnatal ward (I thought paying £100 a night for a private room was a waste of money, and still do).
It had a view of the hospital car park, and the bonfires burning in the surrounding neighbourhoods on the 11th of July. I really didn’t care.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:50 pm #
Something similar happened to me!!! My hospital room did have a window but it MUST NOT HAVE BEEN WORKING!! Whenever I looked at it, I could see absolutely nothing except a blackish square with some of my own reflection bouncing back at me. Only at the very end of my labor did it seem to start working, first giving a very pale image of the surroundings which grew slightly stronger over the next hour. Then the baby was born and they transferred me to another room which luckily seemed to have a working window. I’m still really pissed at the hospital for ruining my birth experience over this!
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:34 am #
This usually happens when the sun comes up. You should have arranged to go into labor at a better hour.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:45 am #
It’s a little-known fact that this complication can occur at homebirth too; it happened at mine. My windows were still working, albeit not well, when I started contracting at 8pm. Window function was lost soon afterwards despite the arrival of TWO community midwives! I was well miffed. I can’t tell you what a relief it was to arrive on labour ward at 6am and find a functioning window!
Log in to Reply
R T
January 16, 2014 at 3:28 pm #
Okay, no matter how ridiculous he is, I don’t think his sex should matter or be a basis of jokes. I see the NCB crowd constantly bashing male OBs and even had some of crunchier friends say they were surprised I was so comfortable with a male perinatologist, forget he’s the best in the region! I think people can be equally foolish regardless of sex. It bothers me to see sexism promoted in any form! This post would have been as informative, thought provoking and funny without it! Men have as much business being midwifery “experts” as they do being OBs and that’s completely equal to women. It’s not just women’s work!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:33 pm #
When it’s mansplaining about how women’s pain or failure to progress in labor is all in their silly little heads, I think it’s relevant.
Log in to Reply
R T
January 16, 2014 at 3:39 pm #
Women to the same thing to other women. I don’t see the relevance in pointing out its a man this time? Are you saying its okay as long as its another woman?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:55 pm #
No, it’s not okay then either. I think Dr. Amy is pointing out that this is a historical pattern within the NCB movement going back to Lamaze and Grantley Dick-Read.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:45 pm #
“Nine years ago, Anderson began asking different questions about the aetiology of dystocia, suggesting some new categories – organisational dystocia (lack of continuity of care on labour wards), environmental dystocia (clinical, non-homely décor) and interpersonal dystocia (disagreements between labour ward midwives and obstetricians). Of course what she was hinting at were environmental, social and psychological effects that could impinge upon a woman’s ability to labour normally.”
Or maybe the baby really is too big to fit through the mother’s pelvic outlet. Seriously, this is all such bullshit! If psychological effects are so damned important, why do so many women have preterm labor and delivery? I can’t think of a situation much more stressful than that, yet the baby comes anyway. And why should I trust this midwife and her talk of “interpersonal dystocia?” We all know that’s code for a midwife bitching about an unnecessary c-section because she was overruled by the OB.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 4:20 pm #
This paragraph made me giggle. “Interpersonal dystocia,” really?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 4:22 pm #
LOL! Actually, I quit reading the quote when I hit the “environmental” part, so thanks for quoting it.
I am assuming that “interpersonal” refers to the concept that mws and obs disagree on what actually constitutes dystocia, and that something that an OB calls dystocia a MW would not?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:58 pm #
“There are three main types of dystocia: organisational, environmental and interpersonal.”
“Every clinician should have this question in their dystocia drill: is it organisation, environmental or interpersonal”?
January 17, 2014 at 3:43 am #
As Gertrude Stein would have said: “Dystocia is dystocia is dystocia.”
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:42 am #
Sadly, there are some midwives who feel that no matter how long labor takes, that’s quite all right and there aren’t any sequellae, such as Bandl’s Ring, cardiac exhaustion, etc.
The whole concept of what constitutes the best kind of labor, both in duration and type, to result in the best outcomes, really only developed fairly recently because there simply weren’t any reliable statistics before the 1920s. It was noticed that there was a higher degree of spastic/CP kids with very prolonged labors, more hemorrhage because of uterine atony, etc. and so someone realized that an “ideal” rate of progression could be theorized, within certain limits. it is actually a fairly broad range. As with so much else in ideological midwifery, ignoring the statistics is a regression.
Of course, defining the onset of labor is also important. Proper labor often [very often!] begins much later than a woman thinks it does, so she can claim the “centimeter an hour to full dilatation, then 2 hours to birth” is nonsense. “I was in labor for 3 days” is something I’ve often heard, when in fact the contractions were either painful Braxton-Hicks or prodromal labor, not active labor at all.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 5:24 am #
Women have given birth in concentration camps, in dugouts too small to move around in, in trees during floods, in rice paddies being worked practically to death. War, famine, terror, panic, loss of home, family, security, sexual slavery; whatever unimaginably awful circumstances women can find themselves in, they can (and have) give birth in.A polish woman, heavily pregnant when murdered by Nazis, her baby was partially born post mother’s mortem and was found between her legs when the corpse was reburied. If a newly dead woman can give birth, so can a privileged Western one give birth in spite of ‘clinical’ or ‘not homely’ surroundings!! Why are these people so STUPID?!!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:36 pm #
Ladies and gentlemen, I learn a lot from you.
Thank you.
Sometimes the slightly OT conversations are the most fun to read, and I learn a lot about things I don’t expect to.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:09 pm #
I am beginning to think that the most galling piece of the midwifery movement is the elevation of complete ignorance over evidence. Women have worked very hard to obtain advanced degrees in all areas of academics, including medicine and the sciences. This valuing of “other ways of knowing” is extremely insulting to every woman who has ever worked to be respected as something beyond her basic biological functions. It is insulting.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:41 pm #
And the fact that they’re successful speaks to the overall horrible lack of basic scientific literacy in the US.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 9:54 am #
Absolutely. My experience might be more extreme, because I was raised in a fundamentalist Christian home and went to schools that taught creationist “science”. Their rhetoric is similar to woo advocates. Big words, circular reasoning that “sounds logical” to someone without an adequate science education, serious mental gymnastics in an attempt to make the evidence match their already assumed-conclusion.
It’s not so much that they’ve never taken an intro university science course. It’s because they’ve missed fundamental scientic principles that they should have learned in middle school.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:56 pm #
I couldn’t read this paper’s excerpts at all. Is it my art school education, English being my second language, or the author trying to sound as confusing as he possibly can? I really needed that English to English translation!!!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:47 pm #
It’s like he re-wrote it using a Thesaurus.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:35 pm #
I couldn’t understand it either, and I’m a native English speaker with a PhD in the biological sciences. What we really need is a pseudo-science to English translation.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 9:20 pm #
Thanks, everyone! It was truly painful to read. I wonder how many people read the entire paper and understood it? (Besides Dr. Amy, of course.)
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 3:45 am #
It was probably painful for Dr. Amy, too.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:48 pm #
It’s not English…this is what happens when someone who has no idea what they’re talking about tries to sound like they do.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:59 pm #
Neologisms and malapropisms, and using ten words when three would do, are a sure sign of Dunning-Kruger phenomenon.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:46 pm #
I remember that at one point the NCB movement was claiming it was better because OB was not “evidence based”. I guess they’ve given up on this claim then?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:54 pm #
Nope. You’re assuming that proof matters in making claims. OBs use science that doesn’t support NCB ideas and therefore the methods of study the OBs use must be not ‘evidence-based’ and flawed.
Log in to Reply
Amy Tuteur, MD
January 16, 2014 at 1:57 pm #
Exactly. The most important point is that midwifery theorists are acknowledging that science supports obstetrics, not midwifery theory. Instead of explicitly acknowledging that obstetrics is evidence based, they have resorted to claiming that scientific evidence is not meaningful.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:25 pm #
I am starting to think that this NCB nonsense is all about money. It’s about inventing a problem and coming up with products and services to remedy said problem. It’s amazing how many people created careers and niche “areas of expertise” out of thin air and are making money on it. Midwives, doulas, lactation consultants, NCB experts and theorists, baby wearing consultants, NCB educators and authors—all have financial stakes in this philosophy.
Log in to Reply
Amy Tuteur, MD
January 16, 2014 at 2:29 pm #
January 16, 2014 at 2:34 pm #
Oh yes, and baby chiropractors. What are those called?
January 16, 2014 at 2:48 pm #
I think Quack is the technical term.
January 16, 2014 at 6:31 pm #
I come here a lot (don’t post much, though) but I just have to say that I took my second child to a chiropractor when he was 3 months old. He was tongue-tied at birth, but it wasn’t revised until 3 months when it was apparent he had a very bad latch and weak suck. The doctor who revised the tie recommended Craniosacral therapy. I thought it was quackery, but my insurance covered it, and the chiro came highly recommended.
I didn’t think it would do much, but after each session of her massaging his jaw muscles, his mouth could open wider and wider. We only needed 3 sessions over 3 weeks, and he went on to develop a great latch and nursed for 18 months.
January 16, 2014 at 6:35 pm #
I’m very glad your baby was safe. And I’m horrified that insurance would pay for that or that a real doctor would recommend it. Although I suppose gently massaging the baby’s jaw is fine, but couldn’t you do that at home? http://www.skepticalob.com/2011/02/infant-dies-after-craniosacral-therapy.html
January 16, 2014 at 9:31 pm #
That post is horrifying. Horrifying. I read it recently and couldn’t sleep at night. That baby was basically tortured and killed. I really hope the quack that did this to the baby is in jail.
January 19, 2014 at 10:53 am #
My insurance covers chiropractors, acupuncture, massage therapy, etc. for every member of my family. Not sure why that’s horrific. Yes, there are certainly CST horror stories, but the majority of chiropractors do not fall into that camp.
January 19, 2014 at 1:20 pm #
With the price of insurance, you’d think that companies would only pay for treatments that are actually evidence based. Which acupuncture, chiropractic, and CST aren’t.
January 20, 2014 at 4:23 pm #
I think our definitions of “insurance” are different. I live in Canada. My insurance covers everything universal health care doesn’t. Like prescriptions, everything I listed above, private hospital rooms, etc.
January 20, 2014 at 4:37 pm #
In that case, I’d be pissed that my tax dollars were being spent on woo that doesn’t work.
January 20, 2014 at 5:15 pm #
I think she means that public insurance (universal health care) pays for her doctor and that her private insurance (no tax dollars) pays for the woo.
In the province I live in, doctors, nurses, hospitals and medical procedures are all paid for by universal public insurance. We all get the same ones no matter who we are. Nobody is uninsured.
Medication is paid for by private insurance if you have it and public insurance if you don’t. Everyone’s medication is covered by insurance this way. Nobody is uninsured.
Radioimaging is covered by public insurance but there are also freestanding private radioimaging clinics that take cash or private insurance. (Healthcare providers in Canada have to choose: either they take public insurance and only public insurance, or they don’t take cash or public insurance at all. Hospital radiology clinics would be the former, freestanding clinics the latter.) Nobody is uninsured but some people have to endure long waiting lists.
Things not covered by public insurance unless you’re on welfare: dental care, glasses, physiotherapy.
Things not covered by public insurance at all: massage therapy, chiropracty, acupuncture, aura readings.
It’s possible that some employers offer a (private) group insurance plan as part of their benefits package that is padded out with a lot of ineffective stuff on the grounds that these additional things are relatively inexpensive.
January 20, 2014 at 8:10 pm #
This. Thanks for the eloquence. I have a very comprehensive family benefits package through my employer.
January 20, 2014 at 5:26 pm #
Acupuncture: imaginary.
Chiropracty: just as effective as physiotherapy for lower back pain; ineffective for anything else. It’s not about being a bad chiropractor, it’s the whole basis of chiropractic itself that is imaginary.
January 16, 2014 at 7:34 pm #
Tongue tie often resolves on its own, so it could very well be that over the course of the major physical and neurological developmental period between 2-4 months of age, your child outgrew his problem. Because the result was gradual over three weeks and not immediate (and that it sounds like the development of a “great latch” was gradual over a longer period), it’s hard to link the improvement directly to the “massage.” One of the favorite tricks of the chiropractic quack is to perform an inert procedure over an extended and possibly indefinite period, and ascribe unrelated improvement to the procedure. One session, three sessions, six sessions–however many go by until the issue spontaneously resolves.
Regardless, I am glad the “massage” (which I hope was all she was doing) from an increasingly familiar face was probably very relaxing for your baby. And I’m glad your pedatrician, while I greatly disagree with his/her recommendation of craniosacral therapy, did not jump quickly to surgical division of the frenulum, as any surgery should not be taken lightly. My big problem is with chiropractors doing adjustments on babies. It’s chiropractic adjustment that is extremely dangerous.
January 19, 2014 at 7:41 am #
I just clarified above, but yes there was a laser revision, done with local anesthetic. Also, if the tongue is very restricted, it will not resolve on its own. My brother had his tongue tie revised at the age of two (in 1989) due to speech problems. I have a four year old nephew who my sister could not breastfeed, didn’t know why at the time, now he’s got speech issues and has been diagnosed as tongue tied. Ties cause problems.
As for the CST, the worksheet did on his jaw relaxed his jaw. That’s all I can say. I would not have consented to spine manipulation.
January 19, 2014 at 7:43 am #
“Worksheet” should say “work she”. Autocorrect fail.
January 16, 2014 at 9:34 pm #
Melly, when you say that the baby’s tongue tie wasn’t revised until 3 months, do you mean it was clipped or laser treated? Craniosacral therapy usually means light touching of the neck,( which had no scientific basis). Perhaps you were fortunate because the professional you brought your baby to was a physical therapist? I am just guessing but it is so disturbing to learn that a cranio sacrsal quack can get insurance reimbursements.
January 16, 2014 at 10:01 pm #
I am guessing this depends on the state. I recently found out someone I knew a long time ago is a Rolfer and gets insurance reimbursement for treatment of people after motor vehicle accidents.
January 19, 2014 at 7:32 am #
Sorry for any confusion. He was laser revised at three months but still had a weak suck on both breast and bottle. His weight gain had stopped prior to revision. The doctor who revised recommended the CST, and I was willing to do anything to get milk into my child. His suck was so bad that we were looking at the possibility of a SNS. We tried switching to bottles, but he couldn’t coordinate drinking from those at all.
The CST was very gentle massage of his jaw muscles. I would not have consented to spine manipulation.
January 17, 2014 at 10:01 am #
I’m glad it helped you guys. I think there are limited applications where chiropractic care can help, but when I hear about a chiropractor adjusting an infant’s spine, it makes me cringe.
January 16, 2014 at 2:42 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:07 pm #
Baby wearing consultants? Is that really a thing?
January 16, 2014 at 5:38 pm #
Baby wearing consultants = moms who sell slings/etc.
January 16, 2014 at 7:17 pm #
Ooops! I gave a babywearing consult for free the other day, and here I was thinking that I was just helping out a new mum who’d approached me with questions while I was shopping. Hide me from the NCB mafia!
January 16, 2014 at 7:19 pm #
Right up there with “Home Management Engineer”
January 16, 2014 at 9:23 pm #
Yup, there are actual classes in Manhattan. They were a part of the baby carrier store, and the aim was obviously to sell slings or carriers.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:11 pm #
Well, to those who don’t understand statistics, empirical evidence sounds like just another debate tactic. And to those who don’t have a grounding in basic biology, the “facts” that get in their heads first can be downright immovable.
Give me a few months to get Baby CC Prof a little bigger. Then I’ll go back to vaccinating the population against all such scams, one student at a time.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 6:43 am #
Just yesterday, I vaccinated a friend and her sister against the idea that autism can be “cured” by putting your child on a restrictive diet. Oh, and the fact that autism seems to have biological foundation does not mean it can be “cured” through bio-medicine and whatever scams the Great Minds of Autism-Related Industries are hatching. And by the way, that it’s a new product of letting your child to have too much screentime and too little attention… or a product of our unhealthy lifestyle. Really, don’t you think all those fairytales of children being “stolen” by the fairies and replaced by changelings sound awfully like someone who’s convinced that the MMR vaccine did it?
Of course, they are both intelligent women who are not into the woo at all… but what they read in their free time did sound scientific. Once I pointed out a flaw, they started finding logical ones too, The fact that neither of them is a mother of autistic child did help, too. But I suppose that’s also a way to start believing in the Great Conspiracy theory.
Oh and by the way, they might tell me about all those scientific-y theories but they are pretty terrified by the notion of leaving their children unvaccinated.
January 17, 2014 at 9:26 am #
Or now. My local health authority has issued an alert for measles. It’s summer holidays here and someone brought back a case from overseas and visited the cinema near me. Glad we weren’t there that day, but there’s heaps of families that would have been.
January 18, 2014 at 10:26 am #
Lucky you. I hope people take the alert seriously.
Actually, the friend I vaccinated the other day almost died by this innocent childhood disease – when she was a child.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:46 pm #
So, if I’m reading the comments correctly, this author has managed to mangle science, philosophy AND most social scientists…..sweet.
Log in to Reply
January 18, 2014 at 2:58 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:43 pm #
” However, labour does not unfold with a singular cause and effect physiology (oxytocin secretion therefore cervical dilatation) which then proceeds with regularity (cervix dilates in a constant trajectory) to end with birth at a relatively predictable point (average of 10 hours). It is a much more complex phenomenon which might more accurately be referred to as ‘orderly chaos’. Clearly, experiences like labour are impacted on by multiple factors in the physiological, psychological and social domains. Simply applying quantitative research methods suited to the controlled confines of a laboratory are not going to capture the intricacies of the uncontrolled milieu of a labour ward.”
Labor isn’t due to a single linear physiology: True.
Labor is complicated from a biological perspective: True.
Labor experience is impacted by multiple factors: True
Research methods couldn’t possible resolve such a messy morass: False. Just because the author can’t get scientific methods to support his wanted conclusions doesn’t mean science is at fault.
Log in to Reply
Expat
January 16, 2014 at 2:14 pm #
The development of chaos requires, for example, a nonlinear medium which is traversed over and over in an oscillatory pattern. So is the medium the uterus or the fetus? In what way are these nonlinear? Do they become nonlinear when overstimulated? The contraction pattern or fetal heart rate pattern could be considered to be getting chaotic during a dystocia or distress. But, the macro situation is still predictable, just not the spectrum of the signal. Somehow, I don’t think that is what he meant when he wrote that labor is orderly chaos. He must have meant it in a literary sense then.. Oh god. Don’t google chaos and literary theory, just don’t. It made literal minded me a bit ill. He must have meant it in a religious sense then, but invoking the goddess Eris (ancient Greece, chaos and discord) as a mechanism is a bit archaic for a modern scientific journal.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:23 pm #
He should talk to Ian Malcolm from Jurassic Park. He’s a Chaotician.
Log in to Reply
Expat
January 16, 2014 at 2:57 pm #
I’m deliberately misinterpreting him. He was implying that labor is infinite dimensional, and therefore chaotic and upredictable, but if we did that in every area of science we would never learn anything. Cell biology? Too complicated – chaos! Molecular excitation? Too complicated – chaos. The microstates are unpredictable but we know quite a bit about the macrostates.
Log in to Reply
Amy M
January 16, 2014 at 3:03 pm #
That’s on par with the “intelligent design” brainiacs who decide that since they can’t figure it out, God must have done it.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:35 pm #
I feel a little bit smarter from having read your comment and having understood it.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:13 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 7:04 pm #
Are there really physiological processes that are non-linear, biologically complex and impacted on by many factors?
Wait – what about DIGESTION?
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 4:38 am #
The end result of a pregnancy is a lot more fun then the end result of the digestive system.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:38 pm #
Provided the only way both get out is all natural pushing? /snark
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:42 pm #
I will say that ” . . . unless the right questions are asked about the reality we are attempting to describe, explore or explain, then our knowledge of that reality will remain superficial and impoverished . . .” explains exactly what led me to make the catastrophic cascading decision to use midwives.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:07 pm #
I actually don’t think the English translation of the first paragraph is fair. Though he of course goes on to write a silly essay, that paragraph is a standard philosophy of science intro. The validity of different methodological approaches are entirely appropriate things to discuss in an academic journal: to say that current methodologies are not sufficient is not necessarily a signal that one’s own work is mnethodologically flawed. Replace “midwifery” with “psychology” or “history” or “political science” and you have a perfectly reasonable (if rather vague) introduction.
Log in to Reply
Mrs. W
January 16, 2014 at 1:06 pm #
I’m definitely in the social science realm (economics) and while there is some room for variations in care based on different valuations of risks and benefits (subjective) – that does not change what the actual risks and benefits are. Individual women will make choices based on the set of risks and benefits that best meet their needs – however, depriving women of the information they need to make the “right for them” choice is an immense travesty. That is where midwifery is severely lacking – it’s not that homebirth is “as safe or safer than” hospital birth, it’s that it has wholly different risks and benefits. Most women will trade superficial benefits (your own environment) for significant benefits (decreased risk of death and disability) and choose hospital (some won’t but to each their own)- but failure to be blunt about the trade off that is being made is what I see as being severely detrimental to the health and well being of women.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:01 pm #
Full time social scientist here: I have never heard of critical realism.
However, I have seen this type of critique, under other theoretical names, frequently in the social sciences.
The argument is that since the world can never be fully predicted and issues are complex, we can’t identify patterns or establish relationships, so why even try. Believe it or not, these people usually do not have a good grasp of statistics or statistical methods.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:02 pm #
Is this related to that douchenozzle Popper?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:10 pm #
Yes. Yes it is. Although I wouldn’t call Popper a douchenozzle. His work underpins a lot of modern scientific thinking, in a good way. However,there are people who cite his work as justification for asserting that if I can find one example where your predictions don’t hold, EVERYTHING IS WRONG AND POINTLESS.
Log in to Reply
Expat
January 16, 2014 at 2:41 pm #
Kuhn is much more fashionable these days.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:03 pm #
On that note, why study anything at all? I’m just going to start making up facts and yelling them loudly over anyone who tells me I’m wrong. Oh wait…I think I’ve been beaten to the punch.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:41 pm #
Which sounds like it is veering towards Epistemiological Nihilism, and I’m afraid Walter Sobchak and I share an opinion about Nihilism.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:44 pm #
Donny, you are out of your element
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:41 pm #
AM I WRONG???
January 17, 2014 at 1:23 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 12:58 pm #
2 things:
#1: Not to blow my own trumpet, but I have an actual degree in Philosophy. From Oxford. Idiots who have zero idea what they’re talking about misusing the language of philosophy (and this includes some so-called “academic philosophers” themselves) in order to get away with talking utter bullshit below the radar PISSES ME OFF BIG-TIME.
#2: While human beings, and human functions like giving birth, may well be very complex things, the kind of situations, interventions and scenarios that this dude is talking about ARE EMINENTLY AMENABLE to ordinary empirical testing. There is ZERO NEED to rely on intuition, or to try to half-arsedly drag in irrelevant concepts or terminology from other disciplines that you don’t understand (and hope to hell your readers don’t understand either). It would be QUITE SIMPLE in theory to design well-controlled tests as to the effects of things like decor, furnishings, lighting and type-of-care-provider on the progress of human parturition. He is pretending that such a thing is not simple, maybe even impossible, because he strongly suspects that such empirical tests would NOT END UP SUPPORTING HIS PREFERRED HUNCH. In actual fact, back in the real world, there are already many examples of phenomena of this type that are common knowledge and well-understood. Like “white coat hypertension”. Douchebag just doesn’t want to put his money where his mouth is, because he knows he’s talking bollocks, so instead he tries to obfuscate with “complicated-sounding” language. People don’t usually need to do that when they aren’t talking bollocks.
Log in to Reply
Mrs. W
January 16, 2014 at 1:10 pm #
There might be some degree of “white coat hypertension” like things happening – but I imagine that the impact is relatively small. Again do a RCT of homebirth against hospital birth to figure out what it really is.
Log in to Reply
Mrs. W
January 16, 2014 at 1:13 pm #
Further – wouldn’t it be plausible to go the other way as well? I mean I would find it absolutely terrifying to labour at home without access to interventions if I happened to need them. I suspect that me birthing at home would have far worse outcomes than me birthing in a hospital simply because I’d be a complete basket case.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:16 pm #
I agree with you that any measurable effects of such things on the physical progress of labour and delivery are probably almost non-existent. I think that’s EXACTLY what he’s afraid of. If he were so sure that these were major factors affecting human parturition, he could design and carry out some rigorous studies to back it up, and be the toast of the scientific community. Why doesn’t he? Because deep down, he knows he’s talking shite.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:19 pm #
Also, I’m the same in terms of the psychological side of these things. I would be MUCH CALMER in a hospital surrounded by people with more letters after their names than in them and machines that go ping. “I’m sure you’re alright” just doesn’t cut it for me compared to “I have reams of hard evidence that you’re alright.”
January 16, 2014 at 1:35 pm #
Me too. I also want someone who looks at me and says, “Another person with condition X? Ok, I’ve got it” rather than “Whoa! Condition X is occurring. How unique!” I want the bored expert to attend me, not the passionate non-expert.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:32 pm #
So the philosophy the NCBers are claiming to use here is as valid as the physics that they’re claiming to use when they invoke quantum mechanics? Not surprising but good to know.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:35 pm #
Awesome! The NCB-industrial complex has managed to anger philosophers as well as scientists and mathematicians.
Welcome to the club, Comrade X.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:40 pm #
I was already angry with the death and the eugenics and the general bullshit, but thanks!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:17 pm #
Thanks for this, comrade. I’m having bad flashbacks to my postgrad Philosophy of Social Sciences class. The tone of the article struck me immediately because it was familiar – it’s exactly what my sort of fumbling around, not completely understanding it but trying to sound confident essays from that class sounded like. I passed (barely), but would be mortified if anyone saw them.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:56 pm #
I loved uni, but am so relieved I stuck to the relative safety of a technical degree. So much of this is incomprehensible to me. I can’t imagine attempting a whole class based on this.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 12:50 pm #
You are right – I am literally howling with laughter, which postpartum, is not an activity without risk.
Log in to Reply
Mrs. W
January 16, 2014 at 12:53 pm #
Note: Go to the washroom before reading SOB and have coffee after reading SOB.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:46 pm #
I was wondering where you went! Congratulations!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 7:21 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 7:52 pm #
Congratulations!!!!! Enjoy your baby moon (with all its leakage and uncomfortable farting on both your parts).
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 10:38 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 12:46 pm #
I suspect if you observed a bunch of laboring women, half in ‘clinical’ hospital rooms and the other half in ‘homey’ rooms with candles burning and dim lights, you would find an equal percentage of stalled labors. And they they would have to find a new excuse. But one thing I can predecit based on scientific observation is that they WOULD find a new excuse.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:14 pm #
An easy, albeit totally unscientific, way to disprove this hypothesis is to answer a simple question: in the last twenty or so years, ever since hospitals made L&D rooms more “homey”, started allowing dads in the room, and rules about eating and drinking, etc have relaxed, are labor complication rates, including stalled labors, any lower than they were before these changes occurred? If no, well, no correlation means no causation. If yes, they might be on to something and, yeah a RCT might help determine what factors (if any) would be helpful. Or it could reveal that observational studies generally suck and no causation exists.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:30 pm #
To be fair, there may be reasons that the rate of stalled labor is increasing over time that counter any effect the “homey” rooms have. You’d really have to look at your covariables carefully.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:47 pm #
My labor was stalled and the majority of that was spend at home. Then I was off to a birth center. There excuse is that I was resisting the pain (I was NOT, however I was so overwhelmed with pain that I could not speak). I was later asked by one of my midwife’s if I had secretly being thinking thoughts of not wanting to be a mother yet. That was her logical leap as to why my labor was so long.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:50 pm #
What does “resisting the pain” mean? And what happened to the claim that labor at home isn’t painful? You must have had bad beliefs or something.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:08 pm #
Or bought the wrong brand of essential oils.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:00 pm #
It meant clenching, tightening not pushing, not allowing it to happen because your afraid it will hurt. If it does not fit into their belief structure they blame the woman for not doing it “right”. Not sure what you mean at the end. This were never my beliefs. This is what they said to me afterwards.
January 16, 2014 at 6:18 pm #
She was being ironic when she said that about “bad beliefs”. She knows that beliefs don’t really affect labor even if midwives say they do to try to make you think things were your fault not theirs.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:04 pm #
In other words, it was all your fault. It’s amazing how often Midwives blame their patients when things go off script.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:12 pm #
From the stories I’ve read on this site I’d bet a 95%+ rate of blaming it all on the mother for not “taking responsibility” in some way. The other 5% is “some babies (or women?) just aren’t meant to live”.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:04 pm #
Someone told me that my emergency C-section was a result of my fear. Idiots.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:05 pm #
I was constipated once because I was afraid of how bad my poop would smell.
January 16, 2014 at 2:10 pm #
Did you get interventions? I hope you didn’t and just waited for it to come out naturally. You should have also imagined a field of roses and breathed through your fear.
January 16, 2014 at 2:15 pm #
It certainly went way past its due date. I gave birth to it out in nature, though, and there were birds singing in the trees. Of course, they all died when they got a whiff but they were not meant to live.
January 16, 2014 at 2:31 pm #
January 16, 2014 at 2:42 pm #
I posted the results on Facebook!
January 16, 2014 at 3:45 pm #
I hope you will post a video and a detailed account of the process later.
January 16, 2014 at 2:48 pm #
I remember during my labor when someone told me to imagine the contractions like waves in the ocean that I could float on top of. Instead I imagined punching her in the face.
January 16, 2014 at 5:20 pm #
All that talk actually did help me get through my back labor. My mom kept telling me to go with the pain and not fight it… I know I was in laborland, but it did help in my mind.
January 16, 2014 at 5:45 pm #
I think what I yelled was, “I f*cking hate the ocean! Shut up!”. Lol
January 16, 2014 at 7:40 pm #
I’ve never been through labor, but I have experienced severe pain with no options for relief. And yes, there are mental tricks to get through it, breathing, visualization, etc. Through the centuries of natural childbirth whether we wanted it or not, human culture devised any number of tricks to endure.
Overall, though, I prefer a morphine pump.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:10 pm #
Well yeah…a result of your fear that your baby would be harmed if you didn’t have a c-section, based on the advice of a doctor. That’s a totally legit fear. That’s not what they meant though.
R T
January 16, 2014 at 3:32 pm #
Amen to that!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:18 pm #
People are insane. I’ve been told my son’s shoulder dystocia was a result of fear.
Log in to Reply
January 17, 2014 at 12:58 pm #
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:05 pm #
You can help lead her to enlightment, by encouraging her to embrace the pain of being punched in the nose.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 2:57 pm #
I’m sorry – this should be criminal. A health-care provider trying to imply to a patient, with ZERO evidence, that their physical condition is being caused by “secret thoughts”. Unless we’re talking about psychiatry, or about a condition with well-known and well-documented psychosomatic components, my “secret thoughts” are precisely NONE of my doctor’s or nurse’s business.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:02 pm #
A GP colleague of mine is reading “Cracked” at the moment, he’s not so sure your secret thoughts should be your psychiatrist’s business either…
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 7:12 pm #
It happens a lot I am a member of a few groups of people who all have a similar undiagnosed rare disease to what I have. A few have been referred on to psych’s, some have been accused of trying to find something wrong with their kid (one family, their toddler’s headaches were so bad he had papilledema and changes on his MRI when they finally got things checked out properly by a doctor that did believe them when the child was 5yo).
A lot of us gave up and stopped mentioning things to our doctors for fear of being thought of as a hypochondriac and malingerer. Having a name for the condition and a genetic diagnosis has made a world of difference as to how we get treated by doctors. The fact that it is so rare, difficult to diagnose and that doctors are now so incredibly helpful has helped me forgive them. My doctors even published a paper on my family and how rare and difficult it is to diagnose and have been trying to raise awareness at conferences, training and with surveys etc.
January 16, 2014 at 10:43 pm #
Karen, I always try to keep your story in mind – good perspective for a clinician to have when approaching a person with a difficult presentation.
Log in to Reply
Amy M
January 16, 2014 at 3:00 pm #
I had a very long labor, due to irregular contractions, which the OB on call (in the hospital) decided to deal with by giving me pitocin after 12hr. He (and everyone else involved) felt the irregularities were caused by extremely distended uterus thanks to carrying twins. Because the contractions were so weak, the first half of my labor was not comfortable, but it wasn’t super-painful either. I was ready to be done being pregnant, since that was pretty uncomfortable by then, and Baby A’s water had broken anyway….so I wonder what the problem was (by a midwife’s standards?) The lights were dim, the only one around, once the initial exams were done was my husband, the babies even thoughtfully waited until after I’d seen the season premiere of Lost, and gotten a few hours of sleep….maybe the mere fact of being in the hospital was inhibitory.
Log in to Reply
R T
January 16, 2014 at 3:33 pm #
I might have physically attacked her in your shoes, lol!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:30 pm #
What the…? I don’t have much tolerance for that kind of BS under normal circumstances and I am not sure what I would have said or done during labor. I have the unfortunate habit of showing exactly how I feel all over my face before I have a chance to even verbalize it. My MIL says I have an “expressive” nose. I am sorry you had to put up with that during a long and complicated labor!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 6:11 pm #
It wasn’t your fault!!! It was your midwife’s fault for not touching your “button” to help you relax!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 3:27 pm #
Assuming the same people were doing the measuring, yes. If you had NCB fanatics only in one group, you might see far fewer diagnoses of stalled labor. “What? You want to drop out of the trial? You don’t trust birth? It’s only been 30 hours!”
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 12:33 pm #
As someone whose field is arguably a social science (history), I find these people deeply insulting to those disciplines.
Alternately, I’ve read a lot about Civil War amputation surgeries so I feel confident that I could do one myself. Dirty rags and blood-caked surgical tools keep you closer to nature. Orgasmic amputation!
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:16 pm #
As a scientist whose field includes a lot of application of quantum mechanics (not just indirectly, but explicitly, as in, I use quantum mechanics in my work), I gave up being insulted by the moronic attempts to apply QM by idiots like Deepak Chopra etc. I just laugh at them.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:34 pm #
Excellent point! Laughter is better. Eyerolling is also a great option.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:39 pm #
When I use my evil genius(TM) to take over the world, my first dictate will be that anyone using the term “quantum” had better be talking about a discrete change from one state to another or I will send my entirely Newtonian robots out to destroy them and all their works! Yes, I’m going to build robots without semiconductors. What’s the point of being an evil genius if you can’t do things the ridiculously hard way?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:44 pm #
anyone using the term “quantum” had better be talking about a discrete change from one state to another
I wouldn’t take it that far. I would, however, insist that they write the Hamiltonian.
January 16, 2014 at 1:48 pm #
Ooh, I like! Subtler and yet probably equivalent in effect. I’ve decided to make you my first lackey in charge of annoying people who misuse the word “quantum” when I take over.
January 16, 2014 at 1:55 pm #
I’m pretty sure I once asked someone on this forum just to explain what a Hamiltonian is, and why I was asking.
I didn’t get a reply.
January 16, 2014 at 1:55 pm #
I believe I offered you an explanation of the federalist papers.
January 16, 2014 at 1:58 pm #
I offered her a crisp, clean $10 bill to go away….
January 16, 2014 at 1:59 pm #
Ba-da-bing!
Sadly, that one is also going to be lost on a lot of people.
January 16, 2014 at 2:00 pm #
I thought auntbea’s response was nice, too.
January 16, 2014 at 2:01 pm #
At first I thought he was bribing me to go take my political science talk elsewhere, and my feelings were a little hurt.
January 16, 2014 at 2:08 pm #
The only thing I know about Alexander Hamilton is that he wanted a national debt to justify a federal income tax. At least that’s what I’ve learned from the Tyrannosaurus Debt episode of Schoolhouse Rock.
January 16, 2014 at 5:32 pm #
January 16, 2014 at 2:03 pm #
January 16, 2014 at 1:59 pm #
So…not only unaware of what a Hamiltonian is, but unwilling to use Google to find out cut and paste the fruits of their research.
Not exactly of suggestive of intellectual curiosity. How surprising.
January 16, 2014 at 2:00 pm #
This is the beauty.
If you don’t understand the question, you certainly don’t know enough about QM to be trying to apply it to anything.
Now, understanding the question isn’t sufficient for being able to apply QM, but it is certainly necessary.
January 16, 2014 at 2:02 pm #
Bofa “If you don’t understand the question, you certainly don’t know enough about QM to be trying to apply it to anything”
Exactly.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 5:47 pm #
Wait, so you’re saying these quantum orbs are just….marbles?
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 12:32 pm #
MW: your labour stalled because the room is too clinical, let’s dim the lights!
He seemingly forgets that you can do RCTs on the midwifery interventions too…
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:14 pm #
Don’t need them. Have other ways of knowing.
Log in to Reply
January 16, 2014 at 1:45 pm #
Magical ways that shouldn’t be questioned too deeply. Don’t want to let the magic escape.
Click here to cancel reply.
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Amy Tuteur, MD
Dr. Amy Tuteur is an obstetrician gynecologist. She received her undergraduate degree from Harvard College in 1979 and her medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine in 1984. Dr. Tuteur is a former clinical instructor at Harvard Medical School. She left the practice of medicine to raise her four children. Her book, Push Back: Guilt in the Age of Natural Parenting (HarperCollins) was published in 2016. She can be reached at DrAmy5 at aol dot com... More
PUSH BACK
Read an excerpt from the book!
Thinking about homebirth? Watch this video!
The Doubtful Father's Guide to Homebirth
why does MANA's own data show a death rate 450% higher than hospital birth?
... unless you want to appear very foolish.
Visual Archives allows you to browse every post in the blog in a unique way.
Powered by Disqus
Subscribe to Comments
Archives Select Month October 2022 September 2022 August 2022 July 2022 June 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008
| 123,133 |
The entity responsible for the collection and processing of your personal data is OCCRE IMPORT S.L. with CIF B63408967 and with address at the C / Repuntadora 2-6, nave 14, 2nd floor, 08302 Mataró (BARCELONA).
2. Purpose of the treatment
OCCRE IMPORT S.L, notifies you that the personal data voluntarily provided by the different means enabled for this purpose will be treated for the following purposes:
- Identify you and be able to contact you.
- Manage customer service for products purchased by you.
- Know your opinion about our products and activities.
- When we are authorized to do so, in order to send you information, by any means, about the products that we market under our OcCre brand.
- When requested, to send you our newsletters and offers on a regular basis.
The legal basis for the processing of your data is your consent and, if applicable, the commercial relationship that links you to OCCRE IMPORT S.L.
The data you provide will be kept for as long as necessary to ensure compliance with the legal obligations that correspond to OCCRE IMPORT S.L.
5. Communication and access to your data
OCCRE IMPORT S.L has adopted all the necessary legal measures to guarantee the treatment of the data.
Likewise, they may have access to their data providers of services and suppliers with whom we have signed the corresponding contracts whose use is necessary to be able to guarantee the relationship of OCCRE IMPORT S.L with contacts and customers. In any case, the necessary legal and organizational measures will be adopted to guarantee security and access to data.
Under the terms established in the current regulations on data protection, you may revoke at any time the authorization granted for processing, as well as exercise the rights of access, rectification, deletion, opposition, portability and the right to request limitation of treatment of your personal data. For this you can write to OCCRE IMPORT S.L, attaching a copy of the document that proves your identity, by email to occre@occre.com
Likewise, we inform you of your right to file a claim with the Spanish Data Protection Agency.
In order to offer you Klarna's payment methods, at the time of payment, we may transmit to Klarna during the purchase process your personal data included in the contact form and order details, so that Klarna can assess whether you meet the requirements to access your payment methods and to adapt those payment methods to your profile. Your personal data is processed in accordance with the provisions of Klarna's privacy policy.
| 2,607 |
This course takes a look at the subjective notion of design. A good design can turn a mediocre drawing or painting into something compelling by dint of devices that are ‘under the radar’. This class will primarily involve working abstractly with watercolour effects and then intuitively collaging the generated elements together.
The act of collaging, as well as cropping, rather than direct painting or drawing on a surface from scratch, allows intuitive design arrangements that reveal some surprising results when subsequently analysed. Awareness of this ‘common sense’ aspect to design is not necessary to actually create designs; however, a recognition of these processes, and how they can provide useful tricks with which to improve the design of your painting will be of great value.
This course should leave you with an enthusiasm for the notion of design and provide you with a toolbox of design devices that you can apply to your own work and expand after the course through your own study, practice and observation.
Dec 4
What is included:
All supplies are included. That means you just show up!
Who is this class for:
Adults only please. Level 2 classes are designed for those who have been introduced to the medium and tools and seeking continued learning and practicing. Skill development beyond basics will be the focus. These classes are ideal to be taken repeatedly for continued practice.
If you have never painted in watercolour before, please take the Very Beginner Workshop prior to this class to learn the basic skills of watercolour painting. See all upcoming painting classes here: https://www.lupineart.com/painting.
What to bring:
We have some aprons, but wear clothes that can withstand the elements (i.e. glue, paint, etc.) of a fun, creative art studio. Nothing else is required.
| 1,876 |
BFFs Kareena Kapoor Khan and Amrita Arora were spotted at the gym for a duet workout session. Kareena looked dapper in her monochrome outfit and Amrita wore a neon jacket for her gym look.
Kareena Kapoor was recently seen going to her gym.
Her BFF, Amrita Arora accompanied her there as well.
The Veere Di Wedding actress choose to wear a white hoodie which she paired with black yoga pants for her gym look.
Kareena completed her look with black sneakers, a tight pony tail and a pair of sunnies that remind us of the film Robocop.
| 562 |
A man wearing a “Latinos for America” t-shirt attends a campaign event for Republican Monica De La Cruz, running for Congress, and US Representative…
A man wearing a “Latinos for America” t-shirt attends a campaign event for Republican Monica De La Cruz, running for Congress, and US Representative Mayra Flores (R-TX), who is running for reelection, on October 10, 2022 at the University Drafthouse in Mcallen, Texas. (Photo by allison dinner / AFP) (Photo by ALLISON DINNER/AFP via Getty Images)
Politics from The Hill
by: Rafael Bernal
Posted: Nov 11, 2022 / 06:01 AM EST
Updated: Nov 11, 2022 / 09:28 AM EST
A man wearing a “Latinos for America” t-shirt attends a campaign event for Republican Monica De La Cruz, running for Congress, and US Representative…
A man wearing a “Latinos for America” t-shirt attends a campaign event for Republican Monica De La Cruz, running for Congress, and US Representative Mayra Flores (R-TX), who is running for reelection, on October 10, 2022 at the University Drafthouse in Mcallen, Texas. (Photo by allison dinner / AFP) (Photo by ALLISON DINNER/AFP via Getty Images)
by: Rafael Bernal
Posted: Nov 11, 2022 / 06:01 AM EST
Updated: Nov 11, 2022 / 09:28 AM EST
Hispanic voters largely stuck to historical partisan trends in 2022, despite a narrative of a rightward shift among Latinos that could propel a Republican wave election.
Democrats largely outperformed Republicans in heavily Hispanic districts around the country, with the exception of Florida, a state that for decades was a GOP Hispanic stronghold.
The partisan split and the influence of Latino voters on a series of key elections underscored the importance of a Hispanic electorate once derided as a “sleeping giant.”
“From now on two things are true: Nobody can ever talk about a f—ing sleeping giant. Because in Florida last night for the Republicans, and then in the rest of the nation for the Democrats, Latinos made a huge f—ing difference in all of these races” said Chuck Rocha, a Democratic political operative who ran Latino outreach for Democrats in Pennsylvania.
“And the second thing is, it shows when Democrats woke up after the 2020 election, and started doing a better job — at least throwing a lot of money and resources at a lot of districts and states — it proved to work,” added Rocha.
In Texas, for example, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke, who lost his election, won the 93 percent Hispanic Hidalgo County with a 60-40 split, roughly the numbers Hispanic advocates expected to see there.
Throughout the country, but particularly in the West, Hispanic voters largely put down narratives of a rightward shift, with Democratic candidates in Hispanic districts largely doing well.
“We’ve seen all these articles, all these narratives, I mean, the post-mortems were written before [Tuesday],” said Victoria McGroary, the executive director of Bold PAC, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) campaign arm.
“Like ‘the rise of the Latina conservative,’ right, all of this? And yeah, over at Bold PAC and Latino groups on the ground, all of us who have been doing this work, invested in their communities for so long, have been like, ‘no, no, no, we gotta run through the tape,'” she added.
In large part, the lack of a rightward shift followed a national trend of rejecting candidates seen as too extreme.
“That’s because Latinos rejected MAGA, period. MAGA is toxic to Latinos,” said Kristian Ramos, a Democratic political operative, referring to former President Trump’s slogan, Make America Great Again.
Still, stories of a reddening of the Hispanic electorate were everywhere this election cycle, worrying some Democrats that the narrative would morph into a self-fulfilling prophecy.
“I think Latino Democrats don’t listen to pundits. And I think that’s the reason why they just came out and voted in their own self-interest,” said Bold PAC Chair Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.).
“If you had been watching CNN, MSNBC, Fox News and listening to other political pundits, you would have thought that this was going to be, obviously, a different election. Instead, Latinos came out because it was important to them,” added Gallego.
So far, no Bold PAC House incumbents lost their seats, and Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto’s race is still too close to call.
Bold PAC’s dual mission is to protect CHC incumbents and add new members to the group of congressional Hispanic Democrats — after the 2022 midterms the CHC’s membership is likely to be the largest in its history.
The Republican Latino push had more ups and downs, although the GOP’s absolute dominance in Florida maintained the historical home base of Hispanic conservatism.
“In general, I would say overall, it was a mixed bag … just in general our election results, but also for the Latino vote. And one of the things that worked against Republicans was the high expectations,” said Jennifer Sevilla Korn, executive director of the Hispanic Leadership Network and a former Trump White House official.
Florida was the silver lining for Republicans in 2022 — their success was in part a result of aggressive redistricting, which yielded a handful of blue districts dotting a ruby-red landscape.
“[Florida Gov. Ron] DeSantis won by .05 percent four years ago. And the fact that he won by 20 percent and gained in Miami-Dade, a very blue county, is historic. And it’s not just Cubans, because that area has become very diverse,” said Korn.
The GOP’s Florida operation quashed Democratic hopes that South Florida districts would remain competitive, six years after then-Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton led a blue surge in the historically Republican region.
“South Floridian Latinos are going back to what they were prior to Hillary Clinton, and it looks like we have stemmed the bleeding in Texas, where obviously [Latinos are] still conservative leaning but still Democratic. And it looks like we are moving in the right direction everywhere else,” said Gallego.
Bold PAC took a victory lap Wednesday, celebrating wins in New Jersey, Florida, Texas, California and Illinois.
While the incoming members from those states were expected to win their races, Hispanic Democrats successfully defended two at-risk incumbents in South Texas, and remain competitive in too-close-to-call House races throughout the West, including in California, Washington and Oregon.
One New Mexico race was called early Thursday for the Democratic candidate, Rep.-elect Gabe Vazquez, who beat Rep. Yvette Herrell (R-N.M.), a top Bold PAC target in part for her role in perpetuating election denials.
In Colorado, Rep.-elect Yadira Caraveo (D) won a tight race to become the first Latina Colorado sends to Congress, representing the state’s newly-drawn 8th district.
And those wins are not coincidental — Bold PAC moved aggressively after the 2020 census to influence redistricting, seeking to draw more districts that could supercharge Hispanic representation nationwide.
“Not to brag, but our staff practically went and got involved in redistricting, and created new districts that basically are probably going to end up getting us three Democrats, with Gabe Vasquez, Yadira Caraveo and Andrea Salinas. If it’s not for Bold PAC helping on redistricting on that, I’m not sure we get those districts and I’m not sure we get three new seats,” said Gallego.
Salinas, who competed for Oregon’s 6th District, is leading Republican Mike Erickson in a tight race with about 60 percent of ballots counted.
In that sense, Bold PAC’s aggressive campaign strategy mirrors DeSantis’s no-holds-barred approach to Florida politics, which stands in contrast to a national Democratic campaign that detractors say is too cautious, incumbent-centric and East Coast-biased.
It’s also a strategy that some Democratic strategists say stands in contrast to the focus on so-called “frontline” members, moderate Democrats mostly from the East and Midwest who have traditionally been the focus of the party’s campaign apparatus.
“Latinos are the real front line here. It’s not another member of some random suburban white district,” said Rocha.
Copyright 2022 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
| 8,341 |
Now that the push by homosexual lobby groups in Australia for same sex marriage is gaining momentum, I feel the need to express my views on this issue. Although I may be a lone voice of opposition crying out in the wilderness, I still wish to exercise my right to express an opinion on this contentious issue.
As I see it, same sex marriage is not a moral, religious or political issue. Nor are there any discriminatory, human rights or equality issues involved. Put simply, same sex marriage was a non issue that has been turned into a political football by homosexual lobby groups, using a basket of red herrings, to put pressure on the current minority government in the Federal Parliament of Australia to get what they want.
Being gay has absolutely nothing to do with being homosexual. Depending on the dictionary used, being gay means to be lighthearted and carefree. This is a mood or feeling not a sexual activity. Therefore, anyone can be gay in the true meaning of the word. If homosexuals are so proud of what the are, why did they hijack a perfectly innocent word and corrupt its meaning to describe themselves. After all, heterosexuals are simply heterosexuals and I don’t see being so is a matter for pride because it is simply the way nature intended us to be. Conclusion: there is no such as gay pride.
Red herring number two is homophobia.
Homophobia is a word invented by homosexuals to describe anyone who disagrees with their push for same sex marriage. Homophobia is made up of two words; homo: meaning a genius of hominids including modern man and phobia: meaning abnormal intense and irrational fear of a given situation, organism or object. Put simply, to be homophobic is to suffer from an abnormal, intense and irrational fear of one’s own species irrespective of gender. Conclusion: if there is such a condition as homophobia there must also be the condition of hetero-phobia: an abnormal intense and irrational fear of the opposite sex.
Red herring number three is gay rights.
Under Article 2 of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, homosexuals have the same human rights as everyone else. But, is being homosexual or heterosexual a human right or simply a human condition? In other words, does Article 2 make homosexuality or heterosexuality a human right? As stated above, being gay is as mood or feeling not a sexual activity and if being gay in this context was a human right, what a wonderful world it would be. Conclusion: there is no such thing as homosexual (gay) rights.
Red herring number four is discrimination.
Up until the 1970’s homosexual sex acts were a crime. This made homosexuals vulnerable to arrest, criminal charges, court appearances and punishment. During the cold war era, this vulnerability was exploited by both sides and homosexuals were deliberately targeted, compromised and blackmailed into spying against their own country. This may have been the rationale behind the discriminatory policy of not allowing homosexuals to be employed in government agencies or serve in the military. However, at the height the cold war period, homosexual sex acts were decriminalised . This paved the way for discriminatory policies to be removed. Today homosexuals serve openly in parliament, in the judiciary, in government agencies and the military without fear of discrimination. Conclusion: homosexuals are no longer discriminated against.
Red herring number five is marriage equality.
This is the biggest red herring in the basket and will be difficult to refute without offending and upsetting our homosexual brethren. Homosexual lobby groups claim that religious institutions and governments should not define, morally or legally, what a family unit should be made up of and they are absolutely right. Yet this is exactly what homosexuals want government to do by changing marriage legislation. In my view, marriage equality means: no mater what social status a marriage partner has outside the marriage, neither partner should try to dominate the other. In other words, equality of the sexes in marriage.
To further refute the validity of homosexual claims for marriage equality, one has to go back in time to the early stages of human development. Whether one is a creationist or an evolutionist is irrelevant. This is because it was mother nature who determined that, for mammals (including homo sapiens); copulation for procreation was to be between adult males and females. Because human offspring take up to twenty years to reach maturity, Mother Nature also gave our species the ability to form long term (monogamous pair bond) relationships to ensure our offspring survived to maturity. But the story did not end there; Mother Nature also gave our species a special gift that enables us to engage in sexual activity solely for pleasure as a means of cementing and maintaining these long term bonds. This pair bonding is explained in the book ‘The Naked Ape’ by Zoologist Desmond Morris (Della Publishing, New York 1967). Over many thousands of years, as human settlements and communities grew and became more complex, these long term bonds became formalised, stylised, ritualised, politicised and institutionalised into what are now modern marriage bonds.
Unfortunately, Mother Nature is not perfect and genetic defects (physical and mental) appear from time to time in most species on this planet. This is a hard fact of life on Mother Earth. With our species it is generally accepted that the brain is our biggest sex organ. When two people of the opposite sex are in an intimate situation, their sensory organs send signals to the sexual receptors in the brain that trigger physical sexual arousal. So why are two people of the same sex sexually attracted to each other and become aroused? Is it caused by a genetic disorder or a chemical/hormonal imbalance in the brain? In other words, are the sexual receptors in the brains of homosexuals malfunctioning? If this is the case then homosexuals are suffering a form of sexual dysfunction and should be treated as such.
Is same sex marriage the answer? The objective answer is no. Giving legal sanction for one man to marry another will enshrine, in marriage, the unnatural bonding of two males for sexual gratification. Following decriminalisation of homosexual sex acts, the anal penetration of men and the anal penetration and double penetration of women has proliferated in the pornography industry. I believe that this is demeaning to all those who produce and consume this type of pornography because it can hardly be classified as erotic. There also appears to be some serious health risks associated with this form of sexual activity. Was it coincidental that the first major outbreak of the HIV/AIDS virus was within the homosexual community in San Francisco; or was it a warning from Mother Nature that this unnatural form of sex is dangerous to our health? This insidious virus has changed the way medical services are delivered and brought about the need to protect ourselves by using safe sex practices. Is this the sexual legacy we want to pass on to future generations?
Given the loss of human life due to HIV/AIDS and the financial cost of research to find a cure, perhaps it is time for a radical re-think about this issue. In the age of genetics, DNA, stem cell research etc, surely in-depth research can be initiated to locate and isolate the area of the brain where sexual arousal is triggered so that this type of sexual dysfunction can be treated. Surely this will be a better solution than allowing politicians to pander to the egos and whims of homosexuals to secure their minority (gay) vote.
Why should politicians be allowed a conscience vote on the issue? Given the conflict of interest should homosexual politicians be allowed to vote on this issue? I believe the government should seek a mandate from the people in a referendum in keeping with the democratic principles of Australia.
It is my hope that this post will generate some objective debate on this issue rather than subjective name calling and I invite comments from both sides of the sexual divide.
Personally, I believe that the human female is the most delightful loving and caring creature on the planet and sharing a long term relationship with a woman is one of the great joys of living. I could not imagine living my life without such a relationship and I feel sad for those men who are unable to do so through no fault of their own making.
Related
I am a retired admin officer. My interests include supernatural phenomena, tarot cards, movies, social activities and more.
View all posts by aquarianmist →
This entry was posted in Political and tagged Political. Bookmark the permalink.
(You deleted this comment. Here it is again)
Hello, I welcome the chance to discuss this topic in a positive manner. Thank you for this opportunity. I agree with you that same-sex marriage is a non-issue, but for different reasons. Not sure how “red herrings” are relevant in this context, but I will address the topics you brought up one by one.
“Red herring” 1 : If all words that describe your group are used as pejoratives by the people outside your group, then it makes perfect sense to adopt a more positive sounding one. Also, if you take issue with people or groups “hijacking” certain terms, then you have to be honest and express your displeasure with all the other groups and organizations who do the same thing. As for the “pride” part, it is simply a reaction against being unjustly labeled as “shameful”. To paraphrase your own very sensible comment , could you accept that “homosexuals are simply homosexuals and I don’t see being so is a matter for pride because it is simply the way nature intended us to be” ? If you could, and everyone else would follow suit, “gay pride” wouldn’t even be necessary.
“Red herring” 2 : Leaving aside your unfounded assertion that the word “homophobia” was “invented” by homosexuals, your definition doesn’t really have anything to do with what the word actually refers to. I assume you were attempting satire ? (I’m not trying to be condescending here, I genuinely don’t understand the point of purposely misunderstanding such a simple concept)
“Red herring” 3 : Uhm….okay, now you are actually arguing that there is no such thing as “rights” full stop. (???)
“Red herring” 4 : Removing discriminatory policies does not mean discrimination itself simply ceases to be. Is there no longer any racial discrimination in America because a black man became president ? No. Is there no more discrimination against gay people in countries with openly gay elected officials ? Again, no.
“Red herring” 5 : And now you’re actually agreeing with the group you claim to disagree with, which somehow leads you to a conclusion that’s completely unrelated to the topic you claim to be discussing. Again (???) As for the rest of it, if you’re going to antropomorphise nature, then why saddle it with all your preconceptions ? If the subject of homosexuality interests you, then why not study the biological facts a little closer, instead of answering your own questions with unfounded assertions ?
Your opinion is noted, but none of it comes near to formulating a valid argument against gay marriage, or dismantling any of the arguments in favor. In closing , I would like to say that I admire the sentiments you describe in the first sentence of your last paragraph, and I wish all straight men shared them. As for your last sentence, let me assure you, there is no reason to feel sad. Same-sex relationships do indeed include that exact kind of happiness.
politicalsmash says:
27/08/2017 at 8:57 am
If you have not yet seen this one, I sense you are going to love this
Heterosexual couples were brought together to be married for many different reasons over the centuries / millenniums: Such as bettering diplomatic and commercial relations. Such as to keep property in the family. Such as a man impregnated a woman. Such as it was forced because of ensuring an heir. Such as it was because a male had to marry more than one female so they all could work together to sustain a family. Such as it was because of arranging marriages for the strategic assembly of land. Such as establishing alliances among kings. Such as marrying off their own wives to establish alliances with other ruling men. Such as a political arrangement between two families who wished to seal their ties as well merge assets. Such as because someone born with a penis and someone born with a vagina wanted to be together and their parents consented. Such as to arrange the passing on of a plot of land to family of which adjacent family marriages could combine plots from both families. Such as the religious of the 16th century began to promote same religion to next generation. Such as young people born with the opposite sex genital having the freedom to promote their choice union based upon love. Such as mutual sexual attraction of those born with the opposite sex genital.
The one thing that never changed over the centuries / millenniums was the fact that marriage was always in honour of the significance of heterosexual unions being recognized for what they are, as significantly above any other kind of union for one obvious reason which the LGBT never once made mention of. This is because quite obviously it is thanks to heterosexual unions that we all even exist and not homosexual unions. The LGBT completely ignored the fact that hundreds / thousands of years of only heterosexual unions being honoured with marriage proves beyond any shadow of doubt that marriage is always about honouring the significance of the unity of the one sexual orientation to which we all awe our very existence thus honours exclusively heterosexual unions hence the significance of what marriage has always been about with hundreds / thousands of years of proof of this very simple fact that the LGBT always cowered from so much as acknowledging. To them it was obviously all about making a mockery of marriage with their lies and deceptions because they do not want to accept the significant difference of heterosexual unions to that of other sexual unions. This gets better. While thousands of years prove what marriage is all about, they ignored that and they instead attempted to claim the obvious lie that marriage was about the reason why heterosexual couples came together to be married (as mentioned in the previous paragraph) and not the actual significance of marriage always being about honouring heterosexual unions. The lie, the deception.
The reason obviously that marriage has never been about homosexual unions is because homosexual unions factually do not even come close to comparing to the significance of heterosexual unions because the fact remains that if it were up to homosexual unions to sustain the human race, we would have died off thousands of years ago for weakly being a race of sexually defective and there is quite obviously not anything worth honouring in that. They do not want to accept the fact that homosexual unions do not even come close to comparing to the significance of the one sexual unity that we all owe our very existence too and that unity is heterosexual unions.
For years the LGBT tried to make marriage about their lies, and when they failed, they tried to make it about more lies, and they did this again and again and again as I will share many examples of this coming up. Pay attention because if you do, you are about to become a master on not only the foundation of this primary issue, but how to plow through many LGBT lies and deceptions on your own . The following proves that they didn’t care that thousands of years of only heterosexual unions being honoured with marriage proves what marriage is in honour of and created for.
As they attempted forcing the following lies and deceptions over the years I was exposing their lies and deceptions as they were doing it to prepare our elected and appointed officials and people in general on many online political, news, social forums and message boards sites on how to deal with their lies and deceptions. Over the years I found myself being banned because I was being slandered by LGBT and their pathetic lies. So began the increased insanity of their so called liberal policies to prevent the public from exposing their pathetic lies and deceptions in North America years ago. Here is some of the other pathetic rhetoric that they tried which I always bested with ease.
They tried such rhetoric as, if people of different races can get married then so should same sex couples yet ignoring the fact that marriage between different racial variations of human were always about honouring heterosexual unions because thanks to heterosexual unions we even exist and therefor is worth acknowledging with the distinction and honour.
They tried to claim that marriage is about consenting adults, yet they evaded the fact that it is among heterosexual adults (unfortunately for some, paedophilia marriages occur in some messed up countries of which people of such countries have been migrating to Canada in mass numbers recently with the liberals arms wide open even though these people have revealed to ignore host countries laws as their numbers increase. But this too was always the “heterosexual” version of paedophilia)
They tried to claim that marriage is about love, yet again they evaded the fact that not everyone gets married out of love and for those who do are those born with the opposite sex genital that the other is born with aka heterosexual unions.
They attempted to claim that if heterosexuals who can’t have children can get married then so should homosexual sex partners while completed evading the fact that heterosexual couples who can’t have children & getting married doesn’t disrespect that marriage is about honouring the significance of heterosexual unions.
Then they attempted the claim that heterosexuals disrespect marriage through divorce, but divorce is just ending a marriage and quite obviously doesn’t disrespect that marriage is about honouring the significance of heterosexual unions.
They attempted to claim that cheating on one’s spouse disrespects marriage, yet even that doesn’t disrespect that marriage is about honouring heterosexual unions. It just disrespects the spouse which can wind up in divorce.
I am not kidding you when I say they tried every lie and deception to make a mockery of marriage and failed at every turn. It obviously wasn’t ever about LGBT having a legitimate claim, it was about the LGBT defecating on the meaning of marriage with every lie and deception that they could possibly fathom compulsively and obsessively. By then I was on a fraction of the sites I was previously on because of these liars and their slander whining hater bigot homophobe to management of every site every time they realized their lies didn’t stand a chance against the facts I share like they did work against the general public. These liars also threatened elected officials with using the main stream media to slander them with their lies to try and hide their lack of validity while painting the unaware public with such rhetoric as anyone who is against their lies is a homophobe, a bigot, a hater etc. So our officials became cowards and sell outs. It seems as though every year in the past 17 years I have been doing this I have been respecting our officials less and less until now I have next to nothing for respect for our elected and appointed officials on Federal, Provincial and even Municipal levels but where else do you go to get rid of the injustices with facts that expose lies and deceptions on the foundations of primary issues?!
They claimed discrimination which is another lie because everyone has the right to marry someone born with the opposite sex genital that any individual is born with because that is what marriage is about. They claimed so they could get benefits, but they could have gotten benefits for their same sex partner without making a mockery of marriage and without defecating on the significance of honouring the one sexual union to which we all owe our very existence which is heterosexual unions. Also without wasting millions of tax payers dollars on a bunch of factually proven lies.
Canada defecated on marriage and heterosexual unions with cowards using the excuse of political party trade off which is quite obviously betraying democracy. In the USA, because their congress would never pass such pathetic lies and a mockery made of marriage along with defecating on the significance of heterosexual unions through them, it was then somehow handed to what is now world renowned as the USA Supreme Court Of Mockery. I, at this point want in contact with all the legal officials related to this case (about a hundred if I recall) but they ignored fact in the end and sold out thus defecating on marriage and heterosexual unions as well. At this point I was puzzled because I wasn’t yet clued in to the globalist agenda and hadn’t quite realized that lobbyist dictatorship was betraying democracy but I knew something fishy was going on. I even contacted Barack Obama directly but I could only squeeze in a short message of which he responded very quickly telling me they were going to do it anyway. I was so furious that I couldn’t even send his online email form enough of the proper information (because of lack of characters you get to use) but I think I may have shared with him where to find it but suspect he didn’t even bother. I was surprised at how fast Obama got back (within a day or two if I recall) but started to become very disappointed in him especially in lieu of, I refrained from targeting him over the years to give the man a chance to prove himself and I only grew more disappointed in him from there and lost respect.
The only thing we have had over thousands of years honouring the one human unity we can thank for our existence was shamed by people who obviously have no respect for heterosexual unions or that we even exist thanks to such unions. They quite obviously only cared to use every lie, deception and dirty trick to defecate on that unity thus for now rendering marriage as garbage that is not even worthy of honour. Marriage is not about honouring that if it were up to homosexual unions to sustain the human race, we would have died off thousands of years ago for weakly being a race of sexually defective.
I even had LGBTe’rs try to contest the primary fact on the foundation of this issue that thousands of years of only heterosexual unions being honoured with marriage proves that marriage is about honouring the significance of the one sexual unity we all owe our very existence too which is quite obviously heterosexual unions. But they attempted and are still attempting such with such nonsense as … ghost marriages.
Ghost marriages: In China if the first born didn’t get married then the second born could not get married until the first born got married first. If the second born died before the first born got married then it was deemed acceptable to have what they referred to as a ghost marriage which was always in honour of a “heterosexual union.”
Keep in mind that I have tackled this issue many times over the last 17 years I have been taking on many foundations of primary issues and in this instance sharing the facts that exposes the lies and deceptions of the LGBT on foundation of this issue. At one time someone made mention of there was a shaman who, because his people were scared of his shaman abilities, didn’t provoke that he lived with a same sex partner and of course I researched this for myself to analyze what was being shared of this because they were claiming that this was a marriage. I recall finding some articles of which stated that in the authors opinion this was a marriage. Of course I found that laughable because being in a relationship with someone is not a marriage unless you actually go through with the official ceremony. I have been in two relationships but never married but again obviously the LGBT would be calling it a marriage because all they really do have are lies and deceptions. They had LGBT becoming scholars just to call all the homosexual relationships they could find throughout history in their opinion as marriages but that was obviously pathetic. Now keep in mind that the leftists and LGBT have had time to infiltrate the First Nations for years on this now and from what I see going on the lobbyists had our government revoke a promise to try and get the First Nations angry with the citizens of Canada when it is not the citizens of Canada voting for people to sell us out to lobbyist dictatorship which is treason, not democracy. Thus obviously having rubbed off their shady tactics upon the first Nations so who knows what the First Nations have agreed to do behind closed doors to help those who actually are the ones who betrayed them in the first place into screw the citizens of Canada. I went to look for that shaman story again today and that story was gone, instead I see that suddenly there are a bunch of releases that begin with the phrase “two spirited” (an LGBT happened too mention such recently as well) so I did a little research and found what looks like severely LGBT twisted compositions.
According to the articles that recently popped up on the internet in recent years, they were claiming that First Nations referred to as “two spirited men and women” involved in relationships of being with the same sex did not hold a marriage ceremony, they just stayed together in long-term relationships. But we have LGBT activists becoming scholars and referring to any homosexual union that they find recorded throughout history and claiming that, that it is their opinion this is a marriage to no surprise but it is quite obviously not a marriage, just a relationship.
I also found something else recently I had not come across before.
New York in the 1920’s, if two women wanted to attempt to make a mockery of marriage, even though it was not a legitimate marriage to unite two people born of the same sex going through with it, a woman would masculinaize her name and dress up like a man, or get a man to get her marriage certificate for her. She would then dress up like a man to make a deceptive mockery of the marriage ceremony by deceiving people into thinking that she was a man marrying a woman which was obviously extremely disrespectful and a mockery made of marriage by two homosexuals using a deception to fool people into it. The men wouldn’t have ceremonies, they would just stay together in long term relationships while attempting to pass of their relationship as a marriage of which neither was a legitimate marriage quite obviously. Leave it up to the LGBT to try and pass off a deception as legitimate, just take this insanity now escalated to the canadian government trying to make criminals out of citizens for not supporting factually proven LGBT lies with bill C 16.
Also fyi, there is a story of homosexuals attempting to make a mockery of marriage in Rome but they were beheaded for it.
Marriage wouldn’t even exist now if it were not for heterosexual unions. None of us would even exist now if it were not for heterosexual unions which quite obviously makes heterosexual unions, well above all other unions, worth honouring. You don’t have to get married to have kids as a heterosexual couple but that doesn’t detract from the fact that marriage is about honouring the significance of the one sexual union that we all owe our very existence too and once again that unity are quite obviously heterosexual unions.
Because here I sit once again sharing facts that the LGBT is not able to contest with so much as a shred of validity, they are going to resort to their same pathetic stereotypical lies such as referring to me as a hater for exposing their lies they used to defecate on society. they are going to try labeling me as a homophobe for exposing their lies they use to defecate on society. They are going to try to make me out to be in-sighting others to hate for exposing their lies that they used to defecate on society. They are going to try to make their every lie and deceptions the issue including attempting to make me out to be a bigot for revealing them for the obsessive compulsive liars deceivers and bigots that they prove to be. That is what the left does, make up lies about you to try and deflect their lies from being exposed while trying to put words in your mouth with misquotes etc. They do this to try and hide that they have no validity in contesting the simple fact which exposes their lies and deceptions they used to make this soon to be short lived mockery of marriage. They do this to try and make their lies about me the issue in hopes that the facts that expose their lies and deceptions are hidden by a slew of their lies and deceptions. As for me, I am use to dealing with it with their lying deceiving weak pathetic mentalities. I always stick with fact revealing their lies and deceptions and when they realize that their stereotypical garbage doesn’t work vs facts that expose them wide open, that is when they have always resorted to making up lies about me such as hater, bigot and homophobe to have me banned off of hundreds of sites over the years. They misquote you obsessively and compulsively as well. I am blocked from many sites because of these pathetic and big time exposed liars wasting your tax dollars to force lies on your children and society as a whole which has gotten completely ridiculous. Of course once they forced their lies and deceptions through legislation they turned around and made policies such as you can’t even speak about sexual orientation on online news and political discussion forums. This isn’t the only thing they lie and deceive about, they do it on the foundation of many of their issues to do with their bias agenda that I address
Sadly enough I have come to know their mentalities, deceptions and snaky tricks better than the back of my hand, but good thing I did go through all the rhetoric and the discrimination I faced while liars I was exposing made false claims of discrimination to deceive the public with their lies and deceptions because here I sit exposing them, their lies and their shady tactics with this masterpiece.
What would have prevented this LGBT insanity from escalating in the first place, is if when homosexuality was legalized, discrimination against heterosexuality was criminalized because it has been the heterosexuals facing the discrimination the whole time. Yeah that is right, time for you to realize. Some of them pretend to be the opposite sex to make fools out of heterosexuals then when heterosexuals become infuriated with such sick behavior used to infiltrate and traumatize the heterosexual it’s the homosexual lying and they always resorted to such lies as homosexual johnny just wants to be left with homosexual Timmy and just wants to be left alone which is quite obviously the lie they were already forcing on the public soon after homosexuality became legal in North America.
Now that their every lie and deception is exposed quite thoroughly to do with specifically marriage, it’s time to put an end to the LGBT insanity manifestation permanently and globally beginning right here in North America by restoring marriage to a respectable state, criminalizing anyone pretending to be the opposite sex that they are born ever again and start working towards having people actually accepting themselves for what they are instead of this insanity of encouraging them to not accept themselves for what they are while trying to force legally on the public that anyone should ever have to accept them for what these people are not! Decades of LGBT lies need to be removed from legislation and I have been proving this with the facts that expose those lies for almost 2 decades now. (globalists are using the LGBT to make a mockery of our societies and turn us against one another hence the mass funding the LGBT gets) What do I get for doing such an excellent job over the years, hidden from the public by being banned almost everywhere and the few sites I am on have little activity. I get defecated on by a bunch of people treating my fellow citizens and Earthlings with a bunch of lies and deceptions and dirty tricks while wasting tonnes of tax payer cash on lies as they get away with defecating on society with such insane rhetoric! Even though I have been getting the short end of the stick for doing the very best anyone I have seen ever do on these issues, it is my pleasure to continue fighting the good fight for the well being and sanity of current and future generations. I know I have become aggressive and sometimes even short tempered over the years, but who wouldn’t in lieu of these circumstances?!!
Also I highly recommend you come to my YouTube channel and look for the 2 and a half minute video recently released titled *Canadian Government Bill Stating Citizens Have To Lie Or Be Made Criminal*
Feel free to look for the title by LGBT columnist “Here’s Why The Idea Of Traditional Marriage’ Is Total Bullsh*t” on the Huffington Post Canada site because you can now easily see through their lies and deceptions and have just read allot more than just how that rhetoric was easily debunked for the lies and deceptions it represents. If you paid attention to what you just read, you now have the potential to become master on the foundation of the issue and support it with what you just learned.
Jacob says:
20/09/2018 at 8:05 am
“Being gay has absolutely nothing to do with being homosexual. Depending on the dictionary used, being gay means to be lighthearted and carefree. ” this is a fallacy: https://www.logicallyfallacious.com/tools/lp/Bo/LogicalFallacies/27/Appeal-to-Definition
Jacob says:
20/09/2018 at 9:41 am
“As stated above, being gay is as mood or feeling not a sexual activity and if being gay in this context was a human right, what a wonderful world it would be. Conclusion: there is no such thing as homosexual (gay) rights.” there are no things as heterosexual rights then. “Seventy-eight countries maintain laws that make same-sex consensual sex between adults a criminal offence, and seven countries (or parts thereof) impose the death penalty for same-sex consensual sex. They are Iran, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Mauritania, Sudan, the twelve northern states of Nigeria, and the southern parts of Somalia.[5]” so yes gays are discriminated against.
“To further refute the validity of homosexual claims for marriage equality, one has to go back in time to the early stages of human development. Whether one is a creationist or an evolutionist is irrelevant. This is because it was mother nature who determined that, for mammals (including homo sapiens); copulation for procreation was to be between adult males and females. Because human offspring take up to twenty years to reach maturity, Mother Nature also gave our species the ability to form long term (monogamous pair bond) relationships to ensure our offspring survived to maturity. ”
Here e it’s pointed out that in this light to be only for reproduction and nothing else…no freedom of association or homos to start a family even though they act the same and use similiar reproduction methods.
| 35,878 |
The OASIS THIRST QUENCHER is easy for pets to use. A lick or nudge of the lever releases the water directly onto the dog's tongue, then shuts off automatically when the dog stops licking. Clean, sanitary and economical; ideal for home or kennel use. The Thirst Quencher has an internal valve design. The Thirst Quencher body is die cast with a hexagonal shape at its base to facilitate easy attachment and removal. The valve body is nickel plated for corrosion resistance and uses a machined aluminum lever.
What Can We Help You Find?
Order History
Address Book
© Dog Kisses Boutique. All Rights Reserved. Designed by KREATIVE
Our website uses cookies to make your browsing experience better. By using our site you agree to our use of cookies. Learn More I Agree
× What Are Cookies As is common practice with almost all professional websites this site uses cookies, which are tiny files that are downloaded to your computer, to improve your experience. This page describes what information they gather, how we use it and why we sometimes need to store these cookies. We will also share how you can prevent these cookies from being stored however this may downgrade or 'break' certain elements of the sites functionality. For more general information on cookies see the Wikipedia article on HTTP Cookies. How We Use Cookies We use cookies for a variety of reasons detailed below. Unfortunately in most cases there are no industry standard options for disabling cookies without completely disabling the functionality and features they add to this site. It is recommended that you leave on all cookies if you are not sure whether you need them or not in case they are used to provide a service that you use. Disabling Cookies You can prevent the setting of cookies by adjusting the settings on your browser (see your browser Help for how to do this). Be aware that disabling cookies will affect the functionality of this and many other websites that you visit. Disabling cookies will usually result in also disabling certain functionality and features of the this site. Therefore it is recommended that you do not disable cookies. The Cookies We Set
Account related cookies If you create an account with us then we will use cookies for the management of the signup process and general administration. These cookies will usually be deleted when you log out however in some cases they may remain afterwards to remember your site preferences when logged out. Login related cookies We use cookies when you are logged in so that we can remember this fact. This prevents you from having to log in every single time you visit a new page. These cookies are typically removed or cleared when you log out to ensure that you can only access restricted features and areas when logged in. Form related cookies When you submit data to through a form such as those found on contact pages or comment forms cookies may be set to remember your user details for future correspondence. Site preference cookies In order to provide you with a great experience on this site we provide the functionality to set your preferences for how this site runs when you use it. In order to remember your preferences we need to set cookies so that this information can be called whenever you interact with a page is affected by your preferences.
Third Party Cookies In some special cases we also use cookies provided by trusted third parties. The following section details which third party cookies you might encounter through this site.
This site uses Google Analytics which is one of the most widespread and trusted analytics solution on the web for helping us to understand how you use the site and ways that we can improve your experience. These cookies may track things such as how long you spend on the site and the pages that you visit so we can continue to produce engaging content. For more information on Google Analytics cookies, see the official Google Analytics page. We also use social media buttons and/or plugins on this site that allow you to connect with social network in various ways. For these to work, the social networks may set cookies through our site which may be used to enhance your profile on their site, or contribute to other purposes outlined in their respective privacy policies.
| 4,382 |
Millennials face the most challenging economic climate of perhaps any generation in America since the Great Depression. This age group of people born from 1981 to 1996 (a debatable timeframe), is experiencing its second recession in only a decade. On top of that, these recessions affected millennials during the beginning of adulthood. This is a crucial period career-wise and to start building financial stability. Due to that, many millennials were left with specific debt and affordability concerns. Those that managed to build wealth, lost trust in the traditional financial market. Thus, when millennials look for financial advice, they might have similar goals to previous generations, but they often demand a different approach to achieve them.
If you are a millennial looking for help with financial planning in this article might help you. For starters, it will give you some tips on what to take into consideration when choosing a financial advisor. Then, the article will show you great financial advisor firms in focused on the millennial market.
If you disregard the current pandemic, the US job market has been improving in the last few years. However, millennials are suffering from a face wage stagnation partially due to the 20-year pattern of declining labor mobility. The labor market mobility began to stagnate in the year 2000, which is when the oldest millennials were joining the job market. Employers started to have more leverage to negotiate salaries when workers began to move around less - both from job to job and from region to region. This created a phenomenon called monopsony, which results in employees being paid less.
Entering the job market amid this phenomenon made it difficult for millennials to make up for the lost earnings of a slow career start. Initial low salaries are compounded when the following raises are also lower, becoming harder to save and invest. In addition, the US reached a record amount of debt (mainly from student loans and on millennial's backs). All that resulted in a very challenging financial situation for this generation.
Of course, many millennials managed to build wealth. But even those differentiate from previous generations. They tend to believe less in the traditional financial market, such as stocks and traditional banking. This is in part because they lived through the US stock market crumble and the bankruptcy of some of the largest banks in the country during the 2008 financial crisis. Because millennials mistrusted conventional financial institutions, alternative financial solutions have emerged. Some examples are online banks and alternative investment tools.
All these factors resulted in an economic scenario very different from the ones lived by previous generations. Thus, using the same strategies to create a healthy financial future won't work as well for millennials.
Financial advisors are professionals who assist you with your overall financial planning, such as creating strategies for reducing financial risk and building wealth long term. They can give you a game plan that sets you on the path to achieve your financial goals. Financial advisors can come in many names, such as wealth managers, investment managers, financial coaches, and so on.
It became clear that millennials need new approaches when it comes to their financial planning. So, it is no surprise that many financial advisors in started to adjust their services to this generation. The industry of financial advisors is traditionally catered to older and wealthier clients. But with the increasing demand, many financial advisors began to make financial planning and literacy more accessible to millennials. Some of these professionals are specialized in the millennial market. Others included the needs and demands of this generation in their services. Finally, some are millennials themselves, thus they know what this generation is looking for first hand.
How to Choose a Millennial Financial Advisor in
If you are a millennial considering organizing your financial life and future with an expert, there are some tips to take into consideration when choosing the ideal financial advisor for you in .
Define the Type of Assistance You Need. Identifying what you want from the financial advisors is a great first step towards finding the best match. For example, if you need assistance with taxes, search for an advisor specialized in tax work in , including the appropriate qualifications. Or, if you are only looking for investment management, perhaps the best fit will be a low-cost service such as a Robo-advisor.
Search for a Financial Advisor Who Is Close to Your Age. This may sound silly, but it can be a vital factor. It is hard to make a financial advisor from a completely different generation understand the needs and struggles you are going through as a millennial. There are exceptions for this, but working with a financial advisor with a top 10-year age gap from you will probably be a better fit. They will know what you are going through not only on a professional but also on a personal level because they might have gone through similar circumstances.
A Good Personality Fit Is Important. You don’t need to be friends with your financial advisor, but you do need to trust them at least a bit for it to work. If you are accepting financial guidance from this professional, it is important to have some personality fit. This will not only improve your trust in your financial advisor but make the whole process more pleasant.
Look for a Fee-Only Advisor. Some financial advisors owe their clients a fiduciary obligation, which means they must serve their client's best interests rather than their own. The most recommended is to work with a licensed, registered fiduciary. In addition, it is ideal that the advisor works on a fee-only basis. This means the professional will only be paid directly by you rather than by commissions for selling specific investments or insurance policies, resulting in more unbiased advice.
Search for Someone that Will Work with Your Busy Schedule. Everyone is busy nowadays, especially millennials who are working long hours, raising families, traveling, and taking side gigs. This can make it hard to schedule meetings with your financial advisor. A solution for this issue is video calls, but the adoption of this method is quite slow at larger finance companies. Finding a financial advisor that can fit your busy lifestyle is vital because it can be hard to keep your strategies in place without convenience.
Titles Can Be Meaningless. Many consultants use popular titles - including the “financial adviser” itself – without any specific qualifications. So, don’t assume someone has training, credentials, or registration just because they use an official-sounding title. Be careful and do your own due diligence before trusting a professional. Look for titles such as “Certified Financial Planners” (CFPs) or “Chartered Financial Consultants” (ChFCs). These require rigorous training and minimum experience to be achieved.
Always check the advisor’s credentials. Regardless of what title, designation, certification, or licenses financial advisors claim to have, it’s up to check their qualifications and background.
Best Financial Advisors for Millennials in .
You know the main aspects you should take into consideration when looking for a financial advisor as a millennial. Now it’s time to analyze and compare the options around you. In many firms work with assisting millennials with their financial planning. When choosing between these options, it is important to compare them in every aspect you can. That is the best way to know you made the right decision. And don't forget to do your own due diligence.
Yes, millennials have a challenging economic future to prepare for. But that is just another reason to find a professional that can help you navigate these circumstances. You want someone who will assist you in building a realistic financial future for yourself considering the current economic scenario that your generation is in.
With the advancements of video call services offered by these professionals, you can also explore financial advisors outside of or even , far from where you live. But if you want an expert based near you, here are the best financial advisors for millennials in
Fund your Outlet
account to earn
rewards.
$0.00
Get Started using Outlet today.
Put your money where it's most
rewarding
Company
Terms of Service
Careers
Risks
Community
Rewards rates on Outlet can vary over time and are not guaranteed. Outlet is not a bank account. Outlet is not insured by the FDIC. This is not a risk free product.
| 9,048 |
Valerie Hobbs wrote and important piece in 2017 on abuse in NAPARC churches. She shares several horrific stories of women seeking help from their leaders but are instead met with re-traumatization and abuse. Please take the time to read this and some of her great suggestions for reform. It angered me to read, as I see how things have only gotten worse. Since my own case of “gross spiritual abuse” in the OPC (as one well-known expert called it) is so public, I am hearing from others with very similar stories as Valerie documents. Too many others. It’s ongoing. It’s atrocious. We are way past a few bad apples. I just can’t understand why the good men in the OPC are not taking the reins here, saying, This is enough! No more abusing our most vulnerable! There is NO Christ in this!
Are we powerless to do this in our own denomination? If so, there is a serious problem with our ecclesial government.
Why does the outcry have to come from the bottom and not from the top? Why do the vulnerable have to pay when they speak? Why do we become your enemies for telling you the truth (Gal. 4:16)? This is the truth: it is clearly time for the denomination to hire a professional third-party investigative team, like G.R.A.C.E. Here is a revised letter that I have sent to a number of church officers in the OPC. It is an urgent plea to shepherd the flock by seeking the help we need. (There are some steps being taken to raise more awareness that is apparently needed, but not the very necessary one of hiring professionals. We are chasing our tails here. Reading Valerie’s post really clarified that for me):
First of all, I want to say that I am grateful for each of you. Just a little over a year ago, I did not know any of you. The church officers that I was friends with in the OPC whom I thought would be there for me to do something about the spiritual abuse that I was under either abandoned me or were not well-equipped to spot and confront it properly. Each one of you has stepped in and invested your own time and effort into helping in different ways. You have expressed empathy for me and concern about what is happening in our denomination.
Because much of the harassment, reviling, and plotting against me was public, I have confronted it publicly. However, as you know, the most painful part infiltrated my own church. I have not shared that story. I am thankful that I see fruit in confronting this, but it’s come at a cost to me and my session. My session humbled themselves to seek the help of one of Diane Langberg’s associates to learn more and rebuild. But confronting the harm done has wreaked havoc on our congregation.
I have learned a lot about the “process” of discipline in the OPC, both formal and informal. While put together with care and good intentions, there are some serious problems. I have much to say about this, but do not want that to be the focus of this letter. I have written some about it with the intent that those in the denomination would want to take action for reform in these areas.
Because my case is more public and because I have spoken into some of these issues, other victims of spiritual abuse in the OPC have reached out to me. Some women have now come to me wanting to work together at collating stories from other victims to publish. There are multiple reasons for this. Telling your story is part of the healing process: being heard. But this is bigger than each one of our individual cases. This is a real problem of spiritual abuse in the OPC, the system that perpetuates it, the theology behind it, and the men who can do something about it. This is about the name of Christ and the love for his bride. And we know there are many more victims and will continue to be if nothing is done. We also have our children in mind, who see behind the curtain of the church.
The OPC has a real problem—the bride is being clobbered by the gatekeepers.
Maybe you know that when victims of abuse seek counsel on confronting abuse and when those with the authority to do something do not act justly, they are counseled to the next step of publicly exposing it. Sadly, we have seen over and over with scandals in both the secular world and the church that this step is painfully necessary for action: Bill Cosby, Harvey Weinstein, Larry Nassar, Tullian Tchividjian, Bill Hybels, Mark Driscoll, Ravi Zacharias, or collectively The Southern Baptist Convention, Sovereign Grace, The Crowded House, the Anglican church in the UK, and ACTS 29. They all had to be publicly exposed first. At the cost of the victims. Do we really want the OPC added to this list?
This is why I am writing you. I know you care. I know you have already taken on some of the cost yourselves. I know that you also care about the OPC as a denomination. This is a turning point. I am asking you to get ahead of this at a bigger level now. Let’s be different than the others. Before more women come forward with their stories, you can lead the way and join with us. There is a better way. I know you can’t do it alone. I know it is overwhelming. Here is my suggestion/request: it is clearly time to hire a third-party investigative team like G.R.A.C.E. They are trained for this. They aren’t friends with any of the accused. And they do not have invested interested in defending the OPC—they are victim-focused.
Rather than the victims publishing their stories, wouldn’t it be better for the OPC to lead the way, inviting men and women to come forward with this third party collecting and collating them? Wouldn’t it be better to get a report with professional recommendations for reconciliation and moving forward?
Don’t we want healing and care for the hurting? Don’t we want holiness and good character in all our leaders?
I keep quoting Diane Langberg’s powerful statement in her book Redeeming Power :
“Our responses to the vulnerable expose who we are.”
This isn’t the only step needed. Along with this, for the future of the church, we need to examine the theology and the underlying assumptions about men and women, as well as about laypeople and spiritual authority, that is perpetuating abuse and inhibiting the growth of the church. These are topics that I am pursuing in writing but would love to see our leaders addressing. Some of the basic elements of personhood that Diane Langberg outlines: voice, relationship, and power, are stunted, neglected, ignored, or plain taken from women in the church. It is a strength in leadership to work with the marginalized to gain understanding about how a victim is impacted by the decisions and process of the system and how justice is even perceived. The church needs reform in preventing, recognizing, and dealing with abuse. Leaders need to be trained in this.
It starts with valuing the voices of her women.
Will you join me in this? I think the first step is in recognizing the severity of the problem and the need for outside help. Is there any way set up in our denomination to make such a decision and actually hire professionals? We are past the point of individual complaints and charges (although they are still needed). We are past the point of waiting for and relying on committee reports from the inside. Maybe that would be a step in addressing some of the theological issues, but we need outside professional help for some diagnostic matters and care for victims. I know I am asking for something unprecedented. But that is what is needed now. We are way past the scenario of a few bad apples. The system is being used to protect abusers. I am seeing more and more victims ready to move to advocacy now. The OPC doesn’t have two years or even one year to take this through the usual process to GA. That doesn’t care for the past, present, and future victims—many of whom were traumatized by trusting the system and the men in it. The process isn’t even accessible to the most vulnerable.
It’s a matter of what is more important in our denomination—the people or the system?
In his book, Something’s Not Right, Wade Mullen notes that abuse is a community concern. Abusers abuse because they can. There are many in the OPC suffering from trauma from spiritual abuse. Psychiatrist Bessel Van Der Kolk says in his book, The Body Keeps the Score, that “Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health…social support is the most powerful protection against being overwhelmed by stress and trauma.” This isn’t just private expressions of care. “The critical issue is reciprocity: being truly heard and seen by people around us.” We do not have this. Victims are ready to come forward and tell their stories. From where I’m standing, I can tell you that the OPC is not safe for many. Please let that sink in. I am saying that the church is not safe!
Respectfully,
Related
Categories: Reformed Church Culture, spiritual abuse, Women in the Church•Tags: Abuse in the OPC•
April 5, 2021 at 11:53 am
You should leave these OPC men to their own devices and their own puritanical notions of male leadership. It’s time for you to exit the OPC.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Jeff D. says:
April 5, 2021 at 11:59 am
Do you consider it abuse when someone, or even many are critical (even harshly) of your writings?
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 5, 2021 at 5:15 pm
If Ministers of the Presbyterian Church in the US can dismiss the treatment of Aimee as criticism of her writing, then it is clear why same church has a problem with spiritual abuse and I wouldn’t be at all surprised to see those attitudes tolerate and enable other forms of abuse.
Jeff D. says:
April 5, 2021 at 5:33 pm
It quite amazing that the times I’ve posted here (and it hasn’t been many), it’s twisted. Melinda, can you please tell me where I’ve “dismissed the treatment of Aimee as criticism of her writing”?
I really did ask a simple question, and it’s a serious question. I suspect I know the answer, but I am concerned that a certain atmosphere is being created. I maybe wrong.
Our church doesn’t have problems with spiritual abuse (no, and I’m not in denial) I don’t believe you’re referring to our church in particular in your comment, but I suspect that our church is like the majority of churches in the OPC. We’re simply seeking to love our people and win the lost; most people have no idea what’s going on here with Aimee (where that lack of knowledge is right or wrong). Please do, come and check us out before making such an outlandish statement. By the way, it’s not abuse to call your statement outlandish.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kerry Baldwin says:
April 5, 2021 at 6:28 pm
Jeff, genuine question: Do you have a particular objection to an organization like G.R.A.C.E. doing an investigation of spiritual abuse? Seems to me that if there is none as you say, then such an investigation would be exonerating. Given that spiritual abuse is not also criminal, seems to me there’s no prevailing threat in a discovery of the facts. And on the other hand, if spiritual abuse were found, wouldn’t it be worth it to address it so that one could say as a matter of fact and not mere sentiment, “our church doesn’t have problems with spiritual abuse?”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Jeff D. says:
April 5, 2021 at 6:39 pm
Kerry. In principle I wouldn’t have a problem with an outside organization doing such thing. I don’t know who G.R.A.C.E is though. I’m assuming it is “Christian” organization, but there obviously would need to be some criteria. I don’t often, but if preach on the doctrine of hell and they think that is abusive, then no, I wouldn’t be open to an organization checking us out in that way.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kerry Baldwin says:
April 5, 2021 at 6:45 pm
Fair enough, Jeff, but don’t you think that warrants your own investigation of G.R.A.C.E. to see if what Aimee is asking here is reasonable and theologically compatible with Christian orthodoxy rather than clapping back with a question insinuating she’s blowing the problem out of proportion?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Jeff D. says:
April 5, 2021 at 7:06 pm
I’m not sure how you come to the conclusion that I think she is blowing things out of proportion. I’m asking, just as you did, a genuine question. Why do you find suspicious in my question?
If and when G.R.A.C.E contacts me, I’ll look. I’m simply trying love my people (which I fail at doing), preach the gospel, and reach the lost (like most OPC pastors). Sadly (in some respects) I have checked in here a few times.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kerry Baldwin says:
April 5, 2021 at 7:19 pm
Jeff, this isn’t really all that difficult. You asked, “Do you consider it abuse when someone, or even many are critical (even harshly) of your writings?”
That you had to ask that question in response to a piece of writing that clearly involves events and people beyond Aimee and her book demonstrates your insinuation. I have no doubt it was a genuine question, but that doesn’t negate the obvious insinuation.
In any case, abuse isn’t merely a failure to love to one’s utmost. I would encourage you to at least do your own investigation to understand it better. I prefer the book, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse by David Johnson and Jeff VanVonderan. https://www.amazon.com/Subtle-Power-Spiritual-Abuse-Manipulation/dp/0764201379
And while I can’t say one way or another whether G.R.A.C.E. is the right organization to do anything, it certainly seems more than reasonable that one might explore their organization first. https://www.netgrace.org/
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cynthia W. says:
April 6, 2021 at 7:37 am
Jeff D., how many people attend your church each Sunday?
Jeff D. says:
April 6, 2021 at 8:04 am
What a strange question. But I have nothing to hide. I print 49 bulletin. No need to assume Anything from that, whether good or ill.
Cynthia W. says:
April 6, 2021 at 8:20 am
Jeff D., I don’t know why that was a stranger question than any other, but thank you for giving something like, although not exactly like, the answer.
Jeff D. says:
April 6, 2021 at 2:04 pm
Cynthia, sorry, I was typing on my phone earlier. I usually print about 40 bulletin. I don’t count how many people attend. An elder does, but I don’t. And yes, I do think it’s a strange question to ask.
April 6, 2021 at 10:04 am
It appears Jeff, that will not get your answer because any challenge to Aimee IS perceived as “abuse” and will not be sincerely addressed. I see only deflection, sidestepping, finger pointing, characterization, blame shifting, endless quarreling and evasion.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 9, 2021 at 7:08 am
This is ridiculous, Graham. Aimee is has said time and time again she doesn’t mind critiques of her books, writings, etc., but what has been said about her and done to her is for more than that. Your minimizing of what has actually happened in just one example of the massive problem here.
April 5, 2021 at 12:29 pm
It does not take a year or two for a properly written overture to be approved by GA. Just get it there by the deadline and they can vote on it this summer.
Deadline: May 12, 2022
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cynthia W. says:
April 5, 2021 at 6:17 pm
That is a very powerful appeal with a variety of useful suggestions. Best wishes for a response exemplifying the spirit of the Gospel.
April 5, 2021 at 8:16 pm
The Rev’d Jeff you are being extremely disingenuous, so disingenuous in fact that some might call it gas lighting which is another practice of abusers.
April 5, 2021 at 11:49 pm
This is a typical smear. You can’t cite anything specific. Instead you characterize his replies with a broad brush. This is abusive.
Jeff D. says:
April 6, 2021 at 3:35 am
I’m not big on “The “Rev’d” thing; I’m good with “Jeff.”
I can see how one might view my question as disingenuous, but I’ve already stated that it was a “genuine” question, in the same sense as Kerry’s question was (see above). Since you don’t know me whatsoever, there’s no need for you to assume that I’m lying. Surely I thought about what answer Aimee may offer, but that doesn’t mean I know the actual answer.
If my question, in your mind is “gas lighting which is another practice of abusers,” then yes, I am guilty. But your statement is part of the genuine concern that I do have. Among the genuine concerns that are present of abuse, a culture is being created in which one can not be critical of Aimee’s writings without being labeled, “abusive.”
If my concerns are unfounded, great, I’m willing to be corrected, and I’ll move on.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 6, 2021 at 7:26 am
If you’ve followed my case and categorize it as mere critique, then it will do me no good to try and answer your question. I’m going to go ahead and listen to what actual experts on spiritual abuse say. Your sealioning the comments section here is a demonstration of why the sheep need outside, professional help. This isn’t only about the numerous OPC church officers involved in my case, but the many others who are being clobbered by those who should be caring for them and the system that enables them. Go ahead and look into GRACE. If things are as you suspect, and all the “supposed” victims are making it up for attention, or can’t take correction and critique, they are smart enough to figure that out.
Jeff D. says:
April 6, 2021 at 7:59 am
I did not “categorize it (what you have gone through) as mere critique.” I ask a particular question. That’s it.
April 5, 2021 at 10:42 pm
Thank you so much for this, Aimee. This hits so close to home.
I’ve always appreciated your writing on every topic you have tackled. I am the family member to multiple sexual abuse survivors (two were victims of Nassar), so I am glad to see you writing this letter that addresses a greater problem within the Church, more broadly, and your denomination, specifically. It’s tragic that such advocacy is needed in the Body of Christ, but I am so thankful that you — again — are lending your talents to this cause.
Andrew P says:
April 6, 2021 at 12:22 am
Well then, I’ll explicitly say what many think Mr. Jeff D. is implying; because based on my observations, it’s true. Incidentally, I’m someone who is not part of a NAPARC denom, and has no real dog in this hunt. I’ve only watched from afar.
Ms. Byrd’s case against abuse in the OPC is badly weakened by the fact that she doesn’t appear to distinguish between the nasty, slanderous criticism she’s received and the legitimate, probing criticism (and yes, at times over-harsh for someone who is not a trained scholar but a laywoman).
It seems to me that she sees herself as a prophetic voice to a very traditional denomination, poked a hornet’s nest, then got in high dudgeon about the angry swarms that emerged.
I would echo those here who say if she is not happy with her denomination, she should leave. I see analogy here to marrying someone in the hope that someday they will change.
Gretchen says:
April 6, 2021 at 12:52 am
Sounds like you truly have issues. My OPC is just fine and you threw it under the bus.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 6, 2021 at 10:30 am
Oh, Jeff, if you read that article and thought a question about Aimee’s sensitivity to criticism of her writing was just the right thing to bring up, you are beyond blind. In the post, she likened what she’s talking about, without giving details, to the Weinstein, Driscoll, Zacharias, and Nassar scandals. Have you listened to her podcasts? It isn’t literary criticism that is keeping her up at night. It’s not your church that’s keeping her up at night. I’m assuming she’s hearing stories that would turn any reasonable, caring human being’s stomach, let alone a follower of Christ. Your question so misses the mark, it would be laughable, except that you’re a pastor publicly displaying your blindness and bias, in a roundabout way proving her point for her. Please let that sink in. Many of us, with no kingdom to protect, read your words and think, “This is the problem she’s talking about.” No abuse problems? Fine. Why the knee-jerk verbosity then? This article came out just yesterday, and you completely dominate the comments. It’s either odd or suspect. Your activity here creates an impression whether you like it or not, but that was your choice.
Thank you, Aimee, for spending your time and energy on this. I’m sure it’s beyond taxing and painful. My husband and I have had a bird’s eye view of NAPARC churches as we’ve moved frequently due to military and professional demands. We attended these churches, thinking the good theology would inform good practice. Unfortunately, none of this, NONE OF IT, is at all surprising as we’ve been uncomfortable for years with the rotten fruit we’ve witnessed. I wish I could say otherwise. And so many of the men in authority seem susceptible to something akin to the Dunning-Kruger Effect. They don’t know what they don’t know. This is why your writing is so important. We need to hear female voices. We must because without them, we miss too much and His Bride suffers. If you can bear it, please keep up your work.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 6, 2021 at 10:38 am
(i)Why the knee-jerk verbosity then? This article came out just yesterday, and you completely dominate the comments. It’s either odd or suspect. Your activity here creates an impression whether you like it or not, but that was your choice.(i)
Maybe he is “verbose” because he has to restate his question ten million dofferent ways until he gets a straight answer. That’s the “impression” I get.
Andrew P says:
April 6, 2021 at 8:34 pm
“We attended these churches, thinking the good theology would inform good practice.”
An interesting statement, in light of the fact that Ms. Byrd twice states above that BAD theology is informing BAD practice in NAPARC churches.
I’m curious what bad theology precisely she is seeing within the OPC; and, again, why it isn’t significant enough to drive her to a new denomination. Granted, we all draw our lines in different places. But if I had the wealth of churches you have in the US, I certainly wouldn’t stay in one that I found theologically errant.
Sara says:
April 6, 2021 at 1:18 pm
What a totally ridiculous article. Please leave the OPC.
RCollins says:
April 6, 2021 at 2:31 pm
It sounds so simple, just get G.R.A.C.E to come in and investigate. What, specifically, would they investigate? The denominational staff? The BCO? Would they work at the presbytery level? or individual churches? What are they looking for? Under who’s authority would they operate? What, in our standards or even biblically, gives them the authority to be hired and then to operate? What is their operating model? How do they define the spiritual abuse (which is an exceptionally vague term) they would be looking for?
LikeLiked by 2 people
April 6, 2021 at 5:07 pm
In order to for the denomination to act, it needs something on the docket for the upcoming General Assembly. You should have your session draft an overture as soon as possible or you will miss the opportunity.
In the meantime, you should advise the individuals privately reporting abuse claims to you that they can immediately get G.R.A.C.E. involved in their individual cases to get the ball rolling.
Charles says:
April 15, 2021 at 11:14 am
Beware this advice. Mark is a pretty rabid culture warrior who discerns she-devils among the Byrd crowds.
April 6, 2021 at 8:03 pm
Thank-you for your last response Jeff.. As I understand it, you acknowledge that spiritual abuse has been perpetrated against Aimee, but you are commenting on her blog where she details and documents the nature of the abuse and ungodly behaviour against her to raise a separate issue, that of genuine critique of somebody’s work being silenced for fear of being mislabelled as abuse.
Nothing you have posted here so far can be said to be abusive BUT to me and obviously others in this thread, your comments display a viewpoint that enables abusers and fails to care about victims. I will take your word and assume your sincerity so I can only conclude that you have been educated to accept spiritually abusive practices as the norm and are unable to discern abuse, from critique and identify patterns of harassment bullying, vilification and ridicule from those in authority that in totality are abusive because of their sustained and pervasive nature.
Your first post appears to be a classic case of deflection. Rather than respond or comment on the content of Aimee’s post, you raise a separate question that by your own subsequent admission reflects your concern is not responding to abuse in the church but rather with an unsubstantiated perception that criticism is being mislabelled abuse.
Regarding gas lighting, this was in response to your insistence that what you asked was a simple question and no acknowledgement at the time that the insinuation is that rather than suffering abuse, Aimee just can’t stand criticism of her work. Your question communicates abuse isn’t the problem-THIS (silencing of critique) that’s the problem.
Jeff, I’ve answered your questions so can you answer a couple of questions for me:
Can you please indicate which of the comments from Genevan Commons https://aimeebyrd.com/2020/06/19/genevan-commons-and-the-qualifications-for-church-office/ posted here are criticism of her work? If you believe many are genuine critique, then perhaps indicate a % of criticism vs personal attack.
Can you please indicate which of the comments befit a Christian leader?
just ... K says:
April 7, 2021 at 9:00 pm
Thank you Melinda for the sanity, and for pointing out the elephant in the room. (Which apparently a few of the male commenters here chose to swallow while fishing for gnats.)
The kindest thing I can say about Jeff’s question in the context in which it was raised is that it was obtuse. More critically, it’s an ad hominem in the larger context. Something which one of Jeff’s supporters had no problem picking up on and running with.
Totally uncool. But highly illustrative of the larger problem being addressed.
Hugs Aimee. I’m not part of the OPC, but my experiences in another denomination mimic those of the women you’re speaking out on behalf of. For Christ’s sake, thank you.
Andrew P says:
April 7, 2021 at 10:28 pm
“Thank you Melinda for the sanity, and for pointing out the elephant in the room. (Which apparently a few of the male commenters here chose to swallow while fishing for gnats.)”
White males. Heteronormative, cis-gendered white males, thank you very much. Probably boomers too. Definitely of the patriarchy.
As for the repeated accusation that a number of MEN didn’t respond to the content of the post, it’s probably because there’s little to say. For my part, it involves people I don’t know and situations of which I am not aware. It’s an open letter, and I’m not an intended recipient.
I primarily commented here because of the repeated assertion that something is theologically amiss with the OPC, which got my attention as I have friends in the OP, and I was curious to hear more from this POV.
April 8, 2021 at 7:44 am
just ... K says:
April 8, 2021 at 12:58 am
“As for the repeated accusation that a number of MEN didn’t respond to the content of the post, it’s probably because there’s little to say. For my part, it involves people I don’t know and situations of which I am not aware..”
The elephant has not been swallowed. Mr “P” is rather brazenly riding it….
LikeLiked by 1 person
Andrew P says:
April 8, 2021 at 1:27 am
Apology accepted.
just ... K says:
April 8, 2021 at 12:43 pm
Half the harm that is done in this world
Is due to people who want to feel important
They don’t mean to do harm
But the harm does not interest them.
Or they do not see it, or they justify it
Because they are absorbed in the endless struggle
To think well of themselves.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Andrew P says:
April 8, 2021 at 7:25 pm
Spring is the mischief in me, and I wonder
If I could put a notion in his head:
‘Why do they make good neighbors? Isn’t it
Where there are cows? But here there are no cows.
Before I built a wall I’d ask to know
What I was walling in or walling out,
And to whom I was like to give offense.
Something there is that doesn’t love a wall,
That wants it down.’
Jeff D. says:
April 8, 2021 at 11:49 am
It seems as this did not go through; I posted it yesterday. It comes from Al Mohler’s Briefing yesterday and I believe speaks to my original question:
“We’re told that one of the problems documented here was harassment from fellow students and administrators. But as you look at the lawsuit, as you look at the report from this organization, as you listen to the conversation, a lot of this harassment comes down to the fact that for example, in the case of Moody Bible Institute, administrators ask questions of this student. And in many cases, that is now defined as harassment. One student telling another student that homosexual behavior is sinful is clearly categorized in almost all these studies as a form of harassment. If there is any legitimate charge of what would be rightly called harassment, these schools should deal with it. But that has to come in a form that genuinely represents harassment, not just a confrontation on moral grounds.”
Take a look at the second to last sentence. But, don’t miss what is being expressed in the entire paragraph either. My question was quite simple.
Now, some feel it was not appropriate for this original post. Okay, I see the point, but disagree.
That’s all from me.
just ... K says:
April 8, 2021 at 3:56 pm
“When you start to exercise your voice and agency, those who’d prefer you stay silent and powerless might try to use your past trauma against you by suggesting you have a lot of healing to do, are clouded by bitterness, and are emotionally unhealthy.” Wade Mullen
Jeff, you continually try and frame your input as simply the “legitimacy” of your question. I don’t believe you have the right to frame your input as a simple binary. That would be like asking if the question “What time is lunch?” is a legitimate question. If it’s the first thing you ask of the bereaved at a funeral, it may be a theoretically “legitimate question”, but that legitimacy doesn’t excuse you of the charge of being a complete jerk for asking it how and when you did. Context matters.
Quoting Mohler doesn’t excuse you. You’re not on campus. You’re on Aimee’s blog. A place where a women has openly shared that she writes books, yes. She has also shared her pain over the degrading, misogynistic jokes, barbs and “sermon dedications” she was made a butt of – and her disappointment in a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously. She has been mature enough to realise that the issue is not limited to her own experience and in this post has raised the issue as it pertains to others. You can disagree with her writing AND disagree with how she has been treated AND take the time to notice other people who are being hurt by church procedure.
In context it’s not a binary issue over the legitimacy of a question.
We will have to agree to disagree.
Jeff D. says:
April 8, 2021 at 4:00 pm
Just..K says, “and her disappointment in a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously.”
And that is where you are wrong. Period.
just ... K says:
April 8, 2021 at 5:52 pm
Jeff, you get full marks for vehemence – but it still doesn’t give you the right to frame my reality on your say so. The compassion you’ve shown here has been underwhelming – to the point that you undermine the validity of your own assertion.
Jeff D. says:
April 8, 2021 at 6:05 pm
“Vehemence.” What?
Oh, call someone or someone’s position a name and that’s supposed to persuade people. Unfortunately, that is the result at times. Your last comment was just plain wrong, and I’m surprised that you stated it, and now surprised that you’re are sticking with it.
Let me remind you what you said, “and her disappointment in a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously.”
I’ll state it again. You are wrong. There is no “vehemence,” in that my comment. It’s just a fact.
For those who have been following the story, know that Aimee has herself reported on what action the church (where these things are adjudicated) has taken on this issue; whether you agree with it (and some do) or whether you don’t (and some do).
just ... K says:
April 8, 2021 at 7:36 pm
Jeff, you are aware in logic that something can’t be A and non-A simultaneously, right?
I have a life and can’t respond to you at length right now. (actually I can’t see from the way you argue that pointing out your error will help you at this point either.)
But it’s your foot – you mangled it.
April 9, 2021 at 12:20 am
Jeff, can’t you see that your honest question: “Do you consider it abuse when someone, or even many are critical (even harshly) of your writings?” has been answered in the affirmative by all the heat you have had to endure?
April 9, 2021 at 3:18 am
Jeff do you care to answer the honest questions posted above? Graham Dugas feel free to weigh in here too.
Can you please indicate which of the comments from Genevan Commons https://aimeebyrd.com/2020/06/19/genevan-commons-and-the-qualifications-for-church-office/ posted here are criticism of her work? If you believe many are genuine critique, then perhaps indicate a % of criticism vs personal attack.
Can you please indicate which of the comments befit a Christian leader?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Jeff D. says:
April 9, 2021 at 8:19 am
1. I never said that the stuff from GC was a criticism of her writings. That has been brought up at least twice now. You’re attributing something to me that I never said, or even indicated (although, see #3). Danny Patterson has said that “Aimee doesn’t mind critiques of her books, writings, etc.,” Great; finally an answer. The answer I thought Aimee would give. Danny said that Aimee has said “time again she doesn’t mind critiques of her books…” Again, great. I apologize (“I’m sorry”) if I have missed it. I haven’t been following as closely as others.
2. Again, I did ask a very simple question, which in my mind could have been answered with a “yes” or “no.”
3. I haven’t taken the time to look through all the comments that are posted at the link you and others have offered. Just looking at it now, I don’t know most of the men. I don’t know if they are a “Christian leader,” – I’m assuming you are using that in a bit of technical sense. I’m not going to walk through every single comment. I do find some to be very inappropriate; I certainly don’t find them all to be so. It does appear that some are referencing her writings. Sorry, I’m not a numbers guy, I can’t give a percentage. I’m not saying a majority of the comments are, but again, see #1.
4. I personally am not minimizing what has happened to Aimee. And neither has our Presbytery. I do know this, that our Presbytery, which has spent hours on this “case,” is a fine of a Presbytery as any other in the OPC. We are men, who love our people, and that includes people on both sides. There are men at Presbytery (any Presbytery) who don’t see eye-to-eye on every jot and tittle. There are many details that are brought out in a presbytery meeting that most people are not aware of. But, as a regional church, we have addressed this issue. So, the comment above that, “a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously,” is just factually wrong. I can’t stress that enough.
Finally, I’m done. My question has been answered, not by Aimee (at least not here), but by Danny. I appreciate the answer. Let me remind you of the quotation from Al Mohler (see above). I trust then, with the answer Danny gave, that what Mohler is saying in the paragraph is not being played out here with Aimee’s writings.
Let me remind you, that I pointed to the second to last sentence of that paragraph, which again, is this, “If there is any legitimate charge of what would be rightly called harassment, these schools should deal with it.” Our Presbytery has dealt with what has taken place. Will some people find our decision to be adequate? Of course not. Will some people find our decision to be over the top – you better believe it. Here is the fact, it is absolutely wrong to believe and to espouse the following about our Presbytery, “a church that won’t take that behavior on the part of its men, seriously,” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!
just ... K says:
April 9, 2021 at 2:26 pm
Jeff, I’m glad to see you referencing a little more of the bigger picture in your response. Thank you for taking the time to breathe a little.
I wish I didn’t have to respond to you, but as I am the poster you are “quoting” in the following statements, I’m not okay with letting them slide – for a couple of reasons.
In your last post you say:
“So, the comment above that, “a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously,” is just factually wrong. I can’t stress that enough.”
“Here is the fact, it is absolutely wrong to believe and to espouse the following about our Presbytery, “a church that won’t take that behavior on the part of its men, seriously,” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!”
I’m going to deal with these statements on a personal level, and then evaluate them.
Jeff, placing something into quotation marks means that you are quoting the exact words of the original speaker, it also means that you have not excerpted statements to change the context or meaning of what was originally intended. Your words: “the comment above … a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously,” is false. Putting that statement into my mouth is untrue.
My original comment was: “her disappointment in a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously.” If we are going to get technical, the SUBJECT of my original sentence was AIMEE and her disappointment. You have substituted, so the subject of my sentence it is now the OPC. And YES, it matters. Context matters. (I’m remaining consistent here.)
My original statement was a reflection of my understanding of this post: https://aimeebyrd.com/2020/10/19/who-is-valued-in-the-opc/ and this one: https://aimeebyrd.com/2021/01/29/a-plea-for-reform-observations-from-the-trial-in-the-pse/. As I said yesterday – this is Aimee’s blog. She has spoken here. I commented about Aimee, on her blog and SHE supplies the context.
Yesterday, you were in such a rush for judgement against my voicing this that you made this rash statement:
““and her disappointment in a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously.”
And that is where you are wrong. Period.””
In a later post you said it again:
“”Let me remind you what you said, “and her disappointment in a church that won’t take that behaviour on the part of its men, seriously.”
I’ll state it again. You are wrong. There is no “vehemence,” in that my comment. It’s just a fact.””
I gave you due warning that you were being illogical, so to cover yourself in your later post you edited me. Not cool.
I wrote my sentence out of a concern and in an attempt to reflect the heartache of Aimee. Jeff, you dominated the comments yesterday, over and over again where do you reflect the personhood of Aimee? Take a look – before I made a comment about you mangling your foot – where do you reflect her honestly or even try to reflect her at all? When I read you and look at the attitude you espouse I can sympathise readily with why Aimee does not feel seen or heard by the OPC. Your own attitude weakens your assertions. Jeff, why did you feel justified in editing her out of a sentence? A sentence in which she was the point of reference for the sentence to be understood in its entirety? Why do you feel justified, after she has shared a post filled with feeling and pain (not only hers) into turning it into a theoretical legitimacy issue on a subject of your own choosing?
Why did you turn my comment into a straw man argument?
EVALUATION
If I had not been busy yesterday, I probably would have had to make some logical deductions – and those can be tricky when deciding motives. But as things turn out, you’ve done the work for me.
The reason why you can’t look at my statement rationally is because you have an agenda for being here:
“Here is the fact, it is absolutely wrong to believe and to espouse the following about our Presbytery, “a church that won’t take that behavior on the part of its men, seriously,” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!”
Jeff, you can believe this as gospel truth, you can die on this hill, you can proclaim it as loudly as you please from any treetop or mountaintop of your choosing. You can start a blog. You can be as vehement as you like.
But – it isn’t a fact, and even that misquoted statement, as it stands is not “Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!”
Here are the FACTS (and I’m not making a career out of this, it’s off the top of my head – if Aimee wishes to correct me – I’m totally open):
a) Men in Aimee’s denomination made comments about her, dedicated sermons to her etc.
b) Some people felt that some of the comments and dedications were inappropriate.
c) The church looked into and made a ruling about what had occurred.
d) Some people agree that the church has dealt with the issue satisfactorily.
e) Some people do not feel that the church has dealt with the issue satisfactorily.
Jeff you are fully within your rights to say that you think the church did an awesome job, justice has been served, the OPC is perfect, the men are a smashing success – make that a double – or whatever else you’d like to add.
Aimee is FULLY within her rights to say that she thinks the church failed on this issue. That the issues have not been adequately addressed. That she believes the OPC should reform. That she doesn’t feel the OPC is acting in the best interests of women. And she has said it. Openly. Here. In her own space, on her own time, on her own blog.
Within the scope of the facts it CANNOT BE SAID: “Here is the fact, it is absolutely wrong to believe and to espouse the following about our Presbytery, “a church that won’t take that behavior on the part of its men, seriously,” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!”
You CAN say: “Here is the fact, some people believe and espouse the following about our Presbytery, “a church that won’t take that behavior on the part of its men, seriously,” Under debate! Under debate! Under debate!” But I (Jeff) think they’re categorically wrong.”
It doesn’t matter how hard you try to smash your opinion over people’s heads. You CANNOT make your opinion everyone else’s absolute truth. It doesn’t work that way. Stating the issue under debate as a premise over which there is a concluded certainty isn’t reality – it’s a logical fallacy.
I can understand that you feel loyal to your denomination. I can understand that you want everything to be good and safe and normal. But Jeff you’re defending your denomination whilst showing a great deal of unkindness and lack of concern for PEOPLE. You don’t give the impression of having even looked at the story that Aimee directed us to at the beginning of the piece. These women were a part of this story. You commented and POOF the people disappeared. The mission to take on Amy – apparently the enemy of the peace and prosperity of your denomination, seems to have taken over. You seem to see an enemy. I see a watchmen on a hill.
If Aimee’s writings are genuinely of such concern to you – please start your own blog. Write about them. Debate them. But be morally honest. Be intellectually honest. Be kind. Do it on your own time in your own space.
To anyone reading. Christianity is meant to be a religion of incarnation. A Mighty God – above anything that we can imagine – stooped, touched, took on our flesh. He came to know hunger, pain, betrayal, nakedness, exhaustion – so that when it says that He can sympathize with us – we can believe that it is true. He has walked. Breathed. Slept. He was in our form – he knows it from the inside out. Men in the church – have you tried to follow this example, so that when a women comes into your church and says, “it feels different for me” – have you taken the time to try and see behind her eyes? To all of us – What did it feel like to be a person of colour and walk to work after George Floyd’s murder? What happens to someone who has been sex trafficked – what would church feel like for them? What does the world look like when you were abused as a child – does that affect how you perceive authority? Are you able to incarnate enough to try to understand?
Oh church, we have an example to follow – a path that has been set! We are meant to offer hope, healing. We are meant to shine a light into darkness and RESCUE the oppressed and afflicted!
Places like this comment section break my heart. Are we telling the world that we devour one another? That we cannot disagree honestly or kindly? That we are a pack, not a flock? Last time I looked, that’s pretty much what people were hearing.
Take a moment to look around. This is the internet. People are watching.
I come here because Aimee has pulled on this string. This otherness. Her suffering has taken her past herself. Look at the post after this one it’s beautiful!
Aimee. Thank you for having us here.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Jeff D. says:
April 9, 2021 at 3:26 pm
So sad. I wasn’t taking your comment out of context. I know, and we can let the reader figure it out, that I knew, the subject of your sentence was “Aimee and her disappointment.’ You’re protesting too much on this one. The words you added didn’t change anything. I stand by what I said in my previous post. No need for further comment (see previous post), at least from me.
You claim that I “have an agenda for being here,” I guess I do. Everyone has an agenda, but it is/was not an ill agenda. I’m not in cahoots with anyone else. I was never on GC and happy I wasn’t. I’m simply a pastor in Presbytery, and in a denomination, that has look at this blog, and one other, and have come to the conclusion that our Presbytery has been given a bad name. BTW: Aimee is obviously more then welcome to delete any and all of my comments – I know it’s her blog. I also know that I’ve spent way too much time here the past two days. I will repent in dust and ashes. Again, I came here to ask a simple question, and finally got an answer. Period. I’m happy with the answer. I sure do wish it would have come earlier, it may have saved a lot of time.
“Are we telling the world that we devour one another? That we cannot disagree honestly or kindly?”
I think you should reread some of the blog posts here, and some of your own comments. I don’t believe I was dishonest. I do think kindness is hard to communicate in writing (“that’s what emojis are for” – in my best Dionne Warwick voice), but I have no ill feelings toward you, Aimee or anyone else who disagrees with me. I hope you don’t toward me.
April 9, 2021 at 4:54 pm
“Sealioning refers to the disingenuous action by a commenter of making an ostensible effort to engage in sincere and serious civil debate, usually by asking persistent questions of the other commenter. These questions are phrased in a way that may come off as an effort to learn and engage with the subject at hand, but are really intended to erode the goodwill of the person to whom they are replying, to get them to appear impatient or to lash out, and therefore come off as unreasonable.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 9, 2021 at 4:48 pm
I am sorry for the last comment made by Graham. I’ve deleted it. Never fails with the sexual references made about women who disagree with men.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cynthia W. says:
April 10, 2021 at 8:25 am
“Stating the issue under debate as a premise over which there is a concluded certainty isn’t reality – it’s a logical fallacy.”
Specifically, “begging the question.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gary says:
April 10, 2021 at 11:57 am
Someone mentioned the Dunning-Kruger Effect. Accurate. I don’t think Jeff, Graham, and others realize just how much they’ve strengthened Aimee’s argument for the need to bring in a neutral third party. If their behavior here is at all representative of what Aimee and these women are up against, the OPC doesn’t “got this.” The procedures for dealing with cases are only as good as the people running them. The trial involving Aimee and what Valerie Hobbs documents do not bode well for victims going forward trying to work within the existing system. And then there are the people basically saying, “I wish these women would just shut up and go away.” I’m sure Weinstein and Nassar thought the same. I’m hopeful Aimee is getting reached out to behind the scenes by leaders in the OPC who care about the vulnerable, not the system, and are horrified at the prospect that some sheep have not been safe under their watch. Have the last few years taught us, men, to UNDERestimate the abuse of women in these male-dominated systems? I certainly hope not. Without enough support, public exposure may be the only way forward.
Jeff D. says:
April 10, 2021 at 12:11 pm
And so it is; very dangerous to ask an honest question here. I will never post to, nor visit this page again.
Gary says:
April 10, 2021 at 1:19 pm
Or…alternative response: “It seems that I have struck a sensitive issue here. Maybe I could spend some time trying to understand what’s going on. Do I have a blind spot?” Frankly, I expect this response from a pastor. You’re right. It was a simple question. But why did it elicit such a huge response? There’s something there. The women here are reacting to something very real, and it is not honest to continually defend yourself without at least acknowledging it doesn’t come from a vacuum. Just a hint on what might be going on: we men have been dismissing women that disagree with us since forever. It’s the air we breathe. So, of course, it is hard to see, but that doesn’t mean it’s not real. I keep hoping to see a different response from male church leaders, but time and again it rarely happens. And these are the people we are supposed to trust to care for us! Is it ever OK to just listen instead of defending yourself? What misery my wife would endure if I continually dismissed her this way.
LikeLiked by 2 people
April 10, 2021 at 1:54 pm
People sure get sensitive over these matters. Being able to treat these matters objectively seems to elude us. The men are on one side and the women are on the other. What causes this?
just ... K says:
April 10, 2021 at 1:22 pm
Jeff, you are the man who said:
“That’s all from me.”
“Finally, I’m done.”
” I will never post to, nor visit this page again.”
Time seems to be a more reliable indicator of who you are than the witness of your own words.
Andrew P says:
April 11, 2021 at 12:22 am
Despite your comments about ad hominem and the ostensible trickiness of reading into motives, you demonstrate little reluctance in doing so yourself, impinging on the intentions and character of people about whom you really know nothing beyond a few lines of posted text.
I suggest you moderate your pedantic language and wild rhetoric, and consider your own heart and conduct here. I would venture at least one of these is not perfectly above reproach.
just ... K says:
April 11, 2021 at 7:50 pm
Mr P,
This is the first and last time that I will respond to something addressed to me that amounts to little more than insinuation.
As someone who said these words: “White males. Heteronormative, cis-gendered white males, thank you very much. Probably boomers too. Definitely of the patriarchy.”
I have a question for you. Who are you when you are addressing me? Do you view yourself as simply a fellow sojourner on this planet who is asking questions out of the sincerity of your heart – or are you a “superior” addressing a reprimand to an “inferior”? In the larger context of this blog, that question actually matters.
Although you will not be direct – it seems that my last comment offended you. If that comment is indeed the intended context for your allegation, I have further questions – where is the ad hominem? What motive have I ascribed incorrectly? And quite possibly the most important question yet – I identified myself on this blog as an abused women. The gentleman under discussion identified himself as a shepherd who holds an official position in the denomination under discussion, and who is a preacher of God’s Word. Why are you holding me to a higher standard than you are holding him? What is worse – the untruth of his own statements or my pointing the untruth out? (Remember, there is a context to his behaviour – mention had been made of sealioning, twice.)
You accuse me of : “…impinging on the intentions and character of people about whom you really know nothing beyond a few lines of posted text.” Actually Mr P. and this really is the most important thing I have to say to you personally, and why I am bothering to reply to you at all – to anyone who has a modicum of training in a certain field, we know far more that I wish we knew, exactly because of a “few lines of posted text.” I’m going to leave that comment exactly as it stands because – contrary to the spirit of your allegations – I have no intention of turning the unwise behaviour of a stranger into “Exhibit A” on the internet. But those words are not empty. I have never met or spoken with Aimee in any way or in any form beyond commenting on her blog. But if she wishes to know what I am alluding to I invite her to contact me.
I am aware of one person with whom I have engaged at length. I do not know to whom your plural referred.
Lastly: I would like to thank you for the compliment you extended to me: “…your pedantic language and wild rhetoric.” Usually as women we are called irrational, illogical, over-sensitive and hysterical. All in all, I think I came off rather well. https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2014/07/09/men-really-need-to-stop-calling-women-crazy/
To anyone reading – I’ve spent far more time here than I originally intended to. Why?? Because I identify so very strongly with the women in the stories above. It isn’t safe for me to share details of my story publicly (or even my name) – but a church messed up on my situation VERY badly. I’m living with the consequences of escalation due to that church intervention and have required multiple professionals to become involved to try and figure out how to exit my situation safely. I know that the pastor – who was not qualified to interfere to the level that he did, admitted to one of his “inner circle” that he had indeed messed up. However, there is evidence that I was publicly branded as rebellious to save his reputation, a charge he never levelled at me personally at any time. (I was actually encouraged by the pastor to be LESS submissive to my husband.) The church as a whole has officially shunned me. I have never been told why. (Possibly because of a concern about litigation. I have never threatened it, but the body of documented evidence of malpractice is large.)
Of the five professionals who have become involved in my case – one asked no less than 4 times in a single hour “why are you still alive?” (She could not understand why I have not committed suicide.)
One of the other professionals after 3 1/2 hours with me asked “How do you still have so much of your sane mind?!?” Because I apparently should have lost it – the isolation and psychological abuse, were REALLY that severe.
To anyone who has truly found me too verbose or pedantic, I apologise. I’m not here because I think I can do the job better than anyone else. According to some, it’s a miracle that I can string a collection of thoughts together at all. I’m here because I *sincerely* care about what the church universal is doing to hurting women, and how that reflects on the church. I *sincerely* object to willful blindness where people cannot and will not admit that there is a problem. I *really want* to get out of the hell that I’m living in, and try to help as many people around me in similar situations as I possibly can. My being here isn’t just about ME. It’s about US.
In other words, please don’t let my personal defects detract from an URGENT need, or the *desperate* reality of this situation.
And again. THANK YOU Aimee for voicing this. Thank you for having us here.
Andrew P says:
April 11, 2021 at 8:54 pm
Ms. K, I’m not offended, and I have no inferiors. And believe it or not, I respect you (and Aimee), though I’m sure we disagree on many things. (I didn’t interact with Mr. Jeff D because everyone else seemed to be piling on him.)
Thank you for your response, God bless you with your healing, and take care.
LikeLiked by 1 person
just ... K says:
April 11, 2021 at 9:07 pm
Thank you Mr. P. for your graciousness. I have no ill will towards you either!
April 10, 2021 at 1:55 pm
Paul K says:
April 12, 2021 at 4:43 pm
Aimee, you wondered, “ I just can’t understand why the good men in the OPC are not taking the reins here, saying, This is enough!”
I think the answer may be that the justice system in the OPC is doing exactly what it was intended for: creating a context in which certain leaders can “lord their authority” over those who don’t have as much authority.
It’s just very difficult to wrap one’s mind around the idea that the system is working exactly as it was intended. The system is marketed as a justice system, but it functions as an injustice system. So what is it? Is the system what it says it is or what it is?
Perhaps it can be reformed. But with the embrace of CBMW-style complementarianism, the system already took a giant step in making sure women like yourself are taken out of the authority structures altogether.
What do we do when we find ourselves so powerless in the face of man’s injustice?
April 13, 2021 at 12:00 am
Enough Paul. No matter what Aimee has suffered, it doesn’t warrant your slamming 370 years of Presbyterian polity with the smear: “I think the answer may be that the justice system in the OPC is doing exactly what it was intended for: creating a context in which certain leaders can “lord their authority” over those who don’t have as much authority.”
Aimee, I call on you to chasten Paul and his intemperate characterization. The OPC isn’t perfect because those in it aren’t perfect but to suggest that Presbyterian polity is “designed to lord it over” the laity is a slanderous statement. Either the fight takes place within the OPC using their procedures to seek remedy and reform or we dust our feet off and either leave individually or splinter off a faithful remnant branch to form another denomination. But even then, we would have a BCO that is nearly identical vis-a-vis procedures.
Repent Paul. You have slandered 370 years of Reformed polity.
Paul K says:
April 15, 2021 at 6:00 pm
Hi, Juanita. I tried to be temperate by using the phrase “may be” and phrasing a lot of my thoughts in the form of questions. My thinking is in line with the idea, “Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets.” If the system gets bad results, maybe that’s what it’s designed to do EVEN IF the original designers never intended those results. “Slander” is usually defined as the crime of a false spoken statement. I’m not sure that’s what I did here since much of what I wrote wasn’t exactly in the tone of absolute certainty. I’m a little confused as to the vehemence of the offense you have taken, especially since a major aspect of the Reformation is to NOT appeal to tradition, but I will submit myself to the punishment the Lady of the Blog deems necessary ;). Not trying to poke fun at you – just trying to lighten the mood.
April 13, 2021 at 2:19 pm
The initial question of “is it abusive when anyone criticizes your work?” is vastly unfair to Aimee and completely false, and obviously so to anyone who regularly reads what Aimee writes.
I have been reading Aimee’s stuff for a while now, and I would like to bring to mind her reaction to articles written about the content of “Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood”, such as the articles by Andy Naselli or Denny Burk. In no way did Aimee regard those interactions as abusive, but she rather engaged with the content of what they were saying. They did not agree with what Aimee said, and Aimee did not agree with what they said, but it was normal interactions between people who disagreed. This criticism was never viewed or labeled as abusive because it was not.
The nature of this accusation (in the form of a question) against Aimee is dishonest and insulting. It is sad that Aimee is treated with more dignity and respect by people who disagree with her outside the OPC than those inside in the OPC. It’s patently ridiculous that something like this would even need to be said.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 23, 2021 at 12:59 pm
The thought that the genius of Presbyterian government was that there was no need for the para church to step in to resolve issues.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Email (required) (Address never made public)
Name (required)
Connecting to %s
Notify me of new comments via email.
Δ
← Sex Education for the Church
The Black and Beautiful Church →
Author, speaker, thinker, old school blogger.
Search by Category
Archives Select Month September 2022 August 2022 June 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020
| 63,844 |
HomeMadeEducation is truly unique. A superb tutor and course isn’t just about knowledge, skill, background and professional qualifications (Katherine has these in spades, scroll below to see her qualifications) … what young people need and deserve is … passion, enthusiasm, and a joy for a subject that you just won’t find anywhere else! See for yourself … watch VideoA and Video B!
What really sets us apart … is Katherine’s enthusiasm and passion for her subjects, her ability to delight and enthral, her ability to bring a subject to life and inspire young people. Katherine’s approach and personality are so rare, courses sell out months ahead of time ….
~~~
From C (a parent) “5 courses with Kate over the past 2 year. It’s been a slight uphill journey with tutor assessed grading last year, but with Kate’s help she did fabulously. However, luckily this year has been far more straight forward. We have been so lucky with the such a range of fantastic subjects offered by Kate. DD has thoroughly enjoyed all her courses this year and has decided to continue Business and Sociology from last year, onto A Levels. I know this is only due to your enthusiasm in the subjects and excellent teaching. DD really felt this shone through in your happy, friendly personality that came through in your live lessons.
We’re so happy we found HomeMadeEducation and 2 fabulous teachers to study with other the past 2 years!”
~~~
From T (a parent) “Dear Kate, I just wanted to let you know that of the three subjects that D studied with you/Caitlin, he achieved a 9 in Geography, an 8 in Business, and a 9 in English Literature!! Caitlin might be interested to know that he also got an 8 in English Language. Overall, he achieved the best grades at the test centre where he sat his iGCSEs Huge thanks and credit to you and to Caitlin for your teaching and resources. With thanks and appreciation, T (and D)”
~~~
From P (a parent) ” I can’t recall if I told you but I thought your study skills sessions were absolutely amazing. My undergrads would certainly benefit from them!”
~~~
From H (a parent) “Can 100% recommend Home Made Education. My son has done two IGCSE subjects this year and the quality of the teaching and the information provided is fantastic and also great value for money”
~~~
From N (a parent) “I thought you’d like to know that C got a 9 for his Psychology GCSE We are obviously delighted! Thank you for your course and all the help and advice you gave us towards the end. I so clearly remember my telephone conversation with you at the beginning of this journey in 2019 – your friendly encouragement was so appreciated”
~~~
From M (a student) “Dear Kate, I have just received my results… And I have achieved an A* with 91%!! I can’t thank you enough for all your help throughout the course. I could never have done it without you. This will hopefully set me up for development studies for uni.“
~~~
From M (a student) “Thank you so much Kate for all your support with Environmental Management/ Travel and Tourism. I have just recieved my results Enviromental management A* and an A in Travel and Tourism
~~~
From R (a parent) “I think you must be a bit magic. Thankyou. Its quite an emotional thing for me to see J approaching learning with such gusto. I can’t tell you how much your classes are helping him learn how to learn. It’s not just that he finds you personally so engaging, which is rare in itself, but he is learning how to research and present his ideas. This is something he has never done before.”
~~~
From A (a parent) “Hi Kate. I just wanted to say thank you for your lessons, notes and videos! And the good luck messages! She feels that the exams all went really well and came out happy from all of them and thinks that she is good at exams, just not so much at studying! She enjoyed your course and has learned a lot about how to revise and study which will stand her in good stead for next year’s exams! Thanks a million, A “
~~~
From L (a parent) “I would like to say a huge thank you for the two brilliant short course’s – DS is/has enjoying/enjoyed them so much, they’ve inspired her to not wait an additional year to start the GCSE Psychology. I hope it is not to late to sign up for the live sessions starting this September.”
~~~
From K (a parent) “After leaving school after being bullied we found you like a shining star and My daughter has LOVED every class and all 4 subjects that you have encouragingly taught her over the last 2 years. The education department could learn a lot from you. Thank you for your dedication and passion to teaching. “
~~~
From D (a parent) “Oh my gosh, DD LOVED your class – like so many reviews you have provided the most enjoyable online lesson ever!”
~~~
From B (a student): Thank you so much for teaching me Sociology, I feel it has been one of my most formative subjects and has changed my world view….I felt it was important to thank you because you are a wonderful teacher and have taught me many subjects throughout my life that have made me a better, and more engaged student. I wanted to let you know that I have chosen to study Psychology at A-Level, because ever since about … the 2nd lesson in your class, I was enraptured by the way humans work; I am hoping to do Psychology or Sociology at degree level, but if it weren’t for you, I may never have discovered either. Both subjects taught me to better understand people and be more empathetic, and Sociology has made me realise I want to devote my life to activism and social change – so once again thank you, because from the bottom of my amygdala, I love your teaching and I can’t express exactly how much it has formed who I am today, and who I may be in the future. I hope you teach many other students this passion and fascination.
~~~
From S (a parent) You are an amazing tutor. I can’t thank you enough for everything, from the load of emails I sent you, the help I received, through every process and step. You are truly remarkable.
DD was upset on Wednesday saying I wish we could carry on, I don’t want the course to end, I want to hear more of Kate, she made the course so interesting, I never knew I would like Business so much. Thank you ever so much behalf of DD and myself
~~~
From C (a parent) As a parent I’m so happy I found HME and know that you both run excellent courses and my young person 110% feels the same as me.
~~~
From N (a parent) You are the best teachers that we have met in this country. My son first time said, that he liked the teachers!!! Thanks to you, Kate and Caitlin, he had faith and love for a real teacher!
~~~
From L (a parent) Kate and Caitlyn you have been amazing, going above and beyond to help our youngsters. Thank you so much
~~~
From R (a parent) “Thank you so much for everything Kate. Your courses are fantastic! I’m already looking to see what else we can do with you…I’m sure we can squeeze more in .”
~~~
From H (a parent) Thank you so much for everything over the last 2 years. After leaving school after being bullied we found you like a shining star and My daughter has LOVED every class and all 4 subjects that you have encouragingly taught her over the last 2 years. The education department could learn a lot from you. Thank you for your dedication and passion to teaching.
~~~
From R (a student) Kate and Caitlin, Thank you so much for teaching me this year! I’ve loved every second of it, and am planning on continuing both English and Psychology for my A levels. Thank you so much for making all my GCSEs as easy as you can, I appreciate it so much
~~~
From R (a parent) “I would like to thank you for being such an amazing teacher for M, as she has thoroughly enjoyed all her lessons with you. Every Tuesday she’d look forward to her lessons and not only was the subject interesting but also the way you taught it to your students with so much passion. M really felt like she was on track and knew exactly what she was doing because of your help and guidance. She’s going to really miss her lessons with you. You have done such a great job and I will definitely recommend you to others. THANK YOU!”
~~~
From D (a parent): “We highly recommend HomeMadeEducation. My 14 year old has been studying GCSE Economics this year, online, and is motivated, interested, and eager to take more courses with them next year too.”
~~~
From M (a parent):” E absolutely loves your class. For a child who has found it almost impossible to write coherent tidy notes. Her files have been a revelation. Thank you for how you have been teaching the class. I never imagined she would enjoy Economics so much.”
~~~
From B: Thanks very much for the two years T studied with you. She enjoyed both courses and as a result wants to study psychology at university. We are grateful for the online, live courses and all extra support in between; a stark contrast to her experience at mainstream school.
~~~
From C and M (parent and student): M and I would like to say a huge thank you for the excellent Economics course you have provided. M has found the content and resources to be exceptional and the online lessons combined with homework and recaps has been very effective at helping him learn. He has developed a love of economics and his learning has steered his future in a new direction. What started out as his ‘extra’ subject has now become his most prominent and inspiring one. I will let you know what happens with M but for now he would like to study Economics at A-level next term if all goes to plan. Once again, sincerest thanks for your fantastic educational provision and tuition.
~~~
From M (a parent): “M gets so excited with your lessons. He watched the recorded version and kept pausing it to say the answer. Thank you for being an amazing teacher. He finished with “mum i really love her lessons”! I couldn’t have taught him with the enthusiasm you have”
~~~
From A (a student): Thank you so so so much for this class, I loved it more than any I’ve been to before!! I really enjoyed the teaching style and the wonderful teacher!
~~~
From K (a parent): I am so impressed with your lessons. You are the first teacher he has ever worked with online, whose teaching style he liked! He said he learns a lot from you. You are so much more engaging than a lot of tutors we have tried. Thank you
~~~
From R (a parent): I can’t tell you how much your classes are helping J learn how to learn. It’s not just that J finds you personally so engaging, which is rare in itself, but J is learning how to research and present ideas.
~~~
From J (a parent): L is really enjoying the fashion history course, you’re brilliant!
~~~
From K (a parent): We intend to sign up for lots more in September. My daughter loved the IKEA course she did recently so sending you massive thanks for that!
~~~
From K (a parent): I can highly recommend Kate who runs Homemade Education. Amazing online teacher who really engages the children on a range of interesting subjects.
~~~
From J (a student): Thanks so much for teaching me Kate, you’re the best tutor I ever had!
~~~
From V (a parent): And really thank you so so much again I can’t really express it on an email but you’ve been an amazing help and support it’s very very very much appreciated by myself and C. C has really enjoyed her courses with you and I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending you to others.
~~~
From K (a parent): Wow! You are fantastic! It really is appreciated and we are so pleased we found you and your courses! Thank you!
~~~
From E (a parent): Just wanted to say thank you for the brilliant green architecture course, E really enjoyed it and it sparked lots of discussions and further research. It’s the first time we’ve ventured into the world of online live learning and it’s worked really well for us, so thank you. She looking forward to the next one.
~~~
From S (a parent): B would love to do A level sociology with you…she’s loved the GCSE course! When should we put her name down for Sept 2022?!
~~~
From B (a student): I have loved this course it has been so fun thank you so much for it.
~~~
The final student chat at the end of the very last Live, Online Sociology session of April 2020:
B: i like how everything comes together at the end
A: wow, thats crazy that we’ve done it all
C: thank you so much for this course i loved it
A: i’ve really enjoyed everything
A: and i feel like everybody has gotten so good at explaining things
D: thank you, it’s been really interesting
A: my favourite topic was education, even though it made the most sad
E: Thank you for the lesson, and thank you so much for the whole course. It’s been a pleasure learning sociology, I never would have thought it would be quite so interesting, but boy it was!
F: thank you ive really enjoyed it
A: you’ve been such a great teacher kate
E: Bye and thank you again! I really appreciate all the work you’ve put in to teaching us
From N (a student): I have enjoyed your lessons and look forward to doing the environmental management course with you later (I especially enjoyed the cartoons)
From M (a parent): We are truly fortunate to have found Home Made Education. Would highly recommend to sign up with Home Made. For sure you will receive excellent individual support throughout. Thank you Kate
From S (a parent): We use Homemade Education for Psychology and I wouldn’t hesitate to do another course with them. Far more engaging for students and tutor support and feedback has been great
From B (a student): Thank you so much for helping me and teaching me all through out this course; I really have loved learning it and I loved having you as a teacher.
From R (a parent): We have started the GCSE Psychology course (we are currently in Module 2) and are enjoying it immensely! Thank you so much for putting it together in the way you have. My son loves it!
From S (a parent): We use home made education for EdExcel Psychology and it’s been great! Highly recommend!
From H (a parent): Asking on behalf of a friend. Are you running the revision classes for gcse psychology like you did last year? My daughter attended them last year, and said she wouldn’t have got such a good grade in her exam if she hadn’t taken these classes.
From M (a parent): I just wanted to say that I can’t recommend Kate highly enough! Her lessons are great. Dd16 says she owes her 2 A’s in Psychology and Sociology at GCSE and an A Level in Psychology. We’ve had issues with other teachers and tutors, but never Kate. When I asked her what was wrong with some of the others yesterday, my daughter’s reply about teachers was “They aren’t Kate. They don’t make it interesting and engaging like she did. I miss her!”. Dd12 is now studying psych with Kate and really loves it too.
From E (a student): I just got my economics exam results this morning, and I got an 8! Thank you!
From M (a parent): Getting him to complete the course in a year with the level of content was a particular challenge for him but your structured approach and how to answer questions from the start really helped him focus in on what was required. He’s gained english, maths and biology GCSE’s and IGCSE’s too, so we are super pleased for him, as it enables him a future pathway. Many thanks for your excellent course and tutoring.
From H (a parent): I can’t tell you how much she is enjoying your classes, we would very much like to put her name down for September to do Geography and Travel and Tourism
From I (a student): Just writing to let you know that I got a 9 in sociology! Thank you for your wonderful teaching of the course. It was engaging and interesting throughout and I could not have got that mark without your skills and support.
From R (a parent): My 15 year old daughter chose to take 8 GCSEs in 9 months and there was no way I was going to be able to keep on top of what she needed to be studying. It was so helpful to know that Business and Travel and Tourism were taken care of through Home Made Education. She got her T & T result this morning – a Grade B! And that’s in less than half the usual time taken to study. Business Studies results coming next week. I honestly can’t praise HME enough. Thank you!
From J (a parent): The content was great – super engaging and interesting. kate, the tutor, was very present and helpful.
From S (a parent): Hi Kate. I just wanted to let you know that DD is really enjoying T and T, her words were “its superb”. I have never heard those words before lol!
From J (a parent): My son has just finished gcse psychology, done in a year with home made education. it was great, highly recommended – lots of engagement and communication, content was very interesting: my son actually enjoyed this from an academic pov which is not his default by any means! thank you, Kate!
From T (a student): Thanks for everything, I have very much enjoyed this class and will be sad to stop learning about it till A levels! Once again, thank you!
From B (a parent): Kate has been a great teacher and support to my daughter who sat her first GCSE psychology paper today. Due to Kate and the subject, she is seriously considering the subject at university.
From M (a parent): I just want to say thank you very very much Kate for all your support and great teaching over the last year. My son sat his business exam today being well prepared and feeling confident. He found it pretty easy and finished it 20 mins early … Thank you for making this happen Kate and we’re wishing you all the best.
From B (a student): I would like to thank you so very much for teaching me throughout the terms. I’ve enjoyed taking your course
From T (a student): Once again thank you for everything, I have very much enjoyed this course!
From M (a parent): Thanks so much for the excellent course materials and your tuition. He … went to another college interview last week with a view to doing a Btec Level 3 Business Studies and felt he knew a lot more than most of the other kids there.
From S (a parent): Excellent support and materials. Really well priced for what you get too.
From R (a parent): I highly recommend Home Made Education. My daughter is doing quite a few exams this year and Kate’s videos and input have taken the pressure off me needing to be on top top form for every course.
From L (a parent): My son is thoroughly loving HomeMadeEducation Sociology and Economics. Good to hear you do A level too; may be next on list
From K (a parent): My girl studied Gcse psychology and loved it ( and got an ‘A’ at 14) – I am hoping she will want to go onto A level at some point as she still talks about everything she learned and clearly has an affinity for it! I can’t recommend HME highly enough! Massive value for money and very approachable
From N (a parent): We’re doing the business and highly recommend it – the tutor definitely goes the extra mile for her students
From M (a parent): Totally recommend Kate, who helped my son to a B in Business Studies in only 4 short revision sessions – she was so focused and helpful
From B (a parent): My daughter is really enjoying the course. She recently had a two hour revision lesson that was really useful.
From C (a parent): We love HomeMadeEducation. Excellent tutor, excellent course and excellent price. We did lots of research beforehand and HomeMadeEducation was definitely the best choice. Great price, great tutor, great courses.
From S (a parent): We are doing economics with Kate Sneep at Home Made Education. My daughter is loving the course and planning on doing it for Alevel.
From L (a parent):I agree; my son is studying economics with Kate. Brilliant.
From C (a parent): We just used her online revision session and it was excellent. Wish we’d followed her whole course!
From E (a parent): Highly recommend – the courses are excellent value and kate, the tutor, is brilliant. her feedback is very useful and ontime, she has a great sense of humour, and knows her stuff. my son has done several courses with them and we think the quality of materials is second to none!
From M (a parent): You made a big difference to D’s confidence and ultimately his grade
From A (a parent): Just a thank you for the super helpful revision session. I sat in for most of it and we talked through the way he would have approached the answers. So pleased we did this now as I can review his attempts at questions and guide in the way you are teaching as extra help for him.
From K (a parent): You are the best! Why didn’t I discover you earlier in my home ed journey!!
From D (a parent): I has been loving your classes again this year, thank you. We keep recommending you to everyone!
From I (a student): Today I got my results for my economics IGCSE exam…an A! I want to thank you so much for teaching me … I could not have achieved this mark without your skilled teaching and excellent help!
From T (a parent): Let me say a huge thank you for marking all D’s business papers and giving such good feedback. He achieved an A which we were VERY happy with. Thank you!
From K (a parent) : Well, thank you very much, Kate! DD got an A*!
From D (a parent): We highly recommend HomeMadeEducation. My 14 year old has been studying GCSE Economics this year, online, and is motivated, interested, and eager to take more courses with her next year too.
From L (a parent): Just a note to let you know that L got an A* in his IGCSE Economics. We are so pleased. Thanks for all your guidance.
From K (a parent): I can recommend homemadeducation, my daughter is using them and loving it!
From M (a parent): E absolutely loves your class. For a child who has found it almost impossible to write coherent tidy notes. Her files have been a revelation. Thank you for how you have been teaching the class. I never imagined she would enjoy Economics so much.
From C (a parent) “I can definitely recommend Kay – she teaches my daughter at HEET and she loves her classes as do lots of the other students”
From C (a parent): Kate from HomeMade Education is very good. She is teaching Psychology and Economics at our classes in Tadley and the students love her classes.
Email(required)
Query(required)
Δ
Stay up to date with HomeMadeEducation
Enter your email address to follow HomeMadeEducation and receive notifications of updates by email.
Email Address:
* year-round entries
* multiple course formats, all with regular and personal tutor support
* weekly activities and assignments with prompt and useful feedback
* highly experienced tutors
Courses are developed and run by exceptional, experienced tutors:
* extensive teaching experience (secondary, college and university level)
* senior level industry experience
* Master’s Degree educated
* consistently positive reviews
* extensive personal home education / homeschooling experience
We offer flexible, education for a diverse range of students worldwide.
Course materials and classes are custom developed and follow the latest curriculum, from primary school, through secondary / high school, and up to UK GCSEs and A-Levels.
Schooling families and home educators / homeschoolers alike love the fact that our online tuition offers live lessons, opportunities for independent learning, 24/7 access and the chance to really develop skills and understanding for passing important exams.
| 23,585 |
If there is one electoral contest that epitomises GE 2008, it has got to be the epic battle of Sungai Siput.
A titanic contest is taking place between Samy Vellu and Dr Jeyakumar Devaraj of PSM, standing under a Keadilan ticket – and so far, it’s neck-and-neck. The scenario is more akin to 1999, when Kumar lost by a 5,259 majority rather than 2004, when Samy rode on the Pak Lah bandwagon to win by a 10,235-margin as the Chinese opposition votes were split between Kumar and the DAP candidate.
If in 1999, Kumar was David against Samy the Goliath – nine years later, Kumar’s stature has risen in Sg Siput and many residents now know the “doctor” as a familiar face.
Tonight Anwar is speaking at Karai in the heart of the Malay areas. When I contacted Kumar over the phone just now, he told me some 2,000 people had turned up, about 80 per cent of them Malay.
Yesterday, I followed Jeyakumar on the campaign trail to experience first-hand voter sentiment on the ground – in the kampongs, low-cost housing estates and markets around Sg Siput.
He received a mixed reception. A few punched their fists in the air in support, others shook hands with him warmly, some were lukewarm or apathetic while a few were plain cold. Kumar even reached out to shake hands with a few MIC party workers, a couple of whom appeared agitated, while other MIC supporters, a little taken aback, shook hands more cordially.
One of the major issues here is the Barang Naik syndrome and oil prices – the inflationary spiral which is hurting the lower-income group of all ethnic groups. Stepping down from the back of his small lorry, travelling in a convoy with half a dozen cars, Kumar explains over the mike to anyone who cares to listen that only a small group at the top have benefited most from economic growth. Many others continue to suffer hardship. “If you are satisfied with the economy and the country, then vote for BN. Otherwise, vote for the opposition,” he urges.
Sungai Siput is plastered with pictures of Samy – though Kumar’s posters are now noticeable. The Pas boys have helped to put up Keadilan flags all over the Malay kampongs though of course the BN presence is everywhere. In town, large bill boards feature Samy and Abdullah Badawi standing side by side – not too close – each with their palms held together below in front of them, almost as if they were part of a “wall” anticipating a David Beckham free kick.
It’s Kumar’s third time against Samy Vellu, who will turn 72 on polling day. The soft-spoken respiratory physician has put together an amazing support team. Their operations centre is a hive of activity: young activists checking computers, preparing the days’ schedule, others looking after the catering of food for party workers, folding pamphlets and slipping posters into plastic covering sheets.
Most of the party workers are largely from the Indian Malaysian grassroots including estate workers; others are retired folk. Also present were Chinese Malaysians lending moral support and younger activists from out of town. Even a couple of Orang Asli have turned up.
Some come from far and wide; they are all determined and motivated. The Hindraf activists and supporters are expected to converge there soon. Even last night, when there was no ceramah near the operations centre, some 200 people turned up just to soak up the excitement and mingle with the rest of Kumar’s supporters. In contrast, the MIC operations rooms I spotted (they have more than one, I gather) looked somewhat quiet.
At the last general election, Kumar polled about 35 per cent of the Indian vote. This time, they hope to receive 60 per cent of the Indian vote. I suspect they are hoping for around 35-40 per cent of the Malay vote while it is the Chinese votes that appear to be the most uncertain.
Unlike elsewhere, where many Indians have rejected Samy Vellu, many of the Indian Malaysians in Sg Siput face an internal dilemma. They may respect Kumar for his commitment and dedication but some feel Samy Vellu has been around a long time and he has given them some infrastructure and dealt with some of their problems. If Samy is dumped, will Sg Siput be punished and lose its considerable development funds, they worry?
Over the years, Samy Vellu has brought in quite a bit of development funds for Sg Siput. Obviously, money is not a problem. Wide highways, which are amazingly (for Samy) toll free(!), stretch all the way from Kuala Kangsar to Jelapang via Sg Siput.
When I arrived at Kumar’s operations centre yesterday morning, I found Kumar’s party workers removing a long row of Keadilan flags which they earlier had put up on the road divider of the high street facing their markas. “The BN or the local government in Sg Siput now wants to put up street lights or a divider barrier in the middle of the road,” one of them lamented. Nice timing, eh?
Not to be deterred, the party workers transferred their flags to the road side, this time attaching the DAP’s Rocket flag on the same bamboo pole as the Keadilan flags. A few PSM flags fluttered high above the trees facing the operations centre. Outside the centre, the BN has its own open space next to the PSM’s area. Here the BN (or is it the Information Ministry?) sometimes organises loud concerts, which drown out the proceedings in Kumar’s area. One of Kumar’s party workers told me the crowds at these concerts are much smaller than in previous elections – only about a hundred and dwindling now, compared to a couple of thousand in previous election campaigns. Another telling indicator…
Seat negotiations between the DAP and PSM/Keadilan were particularly tough, but in the end, some sort of agreement was struck.
Last night, I dropped by to find out how the DAP candidate for the Jalong state seat nearby was faring.
Now, Leong Mee Meng, a beautician, is another one of the DAP’s ‘cili padi‘ – and clearly, she is a crowd-puller. Speaking from the corridor of a row of shop-houses, right in the middle of Jalong, close to the Gerakan and MCA offices, Leong addressed a crowd of about 4,000 stretching down the road. She spoke about ‘new politics’, Chinese schools and the inequalities in Malaysian society.
A skilled orator, she switched with ease between Mandarin and Cantonese, and used sweeping dramatic hand gestures to impressive effect. She had the crowd mesmerised.
Malaysia Today’s Raja Petra has apparently been barred from speaking on Penang Island but is allowed to speak on the mainland. This is not going to go down well with islanders, who are already swinging to the opposition in many areas, determined to teach the BN a lesson.
Some 900 people turned up at an opposition ceramah in Lengkok Bangkok tonight while another 400 are now in Brown Garden attending another ceramah there.
Meanwhile, Gerakan is believed to be facing some internal turbulence over the succession brouhaha for the chief minister’s post. Koh Tsu Koon is being seen as indecisive, while Teng Hock Nan is said to be none too thrilled about what has happened.
Please help to support this blog if you can.
new follow-up comments new replies to my comments
Label
{}
Δ
Label
{}
Δ
Most Voted
View all comments
29 Nov 2008 10.46pm
I came to know him while he was lending support to the Anti-Radio Active Dump sites committee in Menglembu about 20 years ago. Dr. Jeyakumar is a decent and a kind gentleman. It is rare to find such man whose sacrifices to the people knows no bounds. Because of his activities to help the poor were seen as anti-government, he left the job as a specialist at the Ipoh General Hospital and his wife, a graduate teacher, followed suit. As I have known him through the years, he had taken issues of the downtrodden Malaysians with compassion and utmost dedication.… Read more »
just wondering on what grounds did they bar Raja Petra from entering the island? Is that legal? And who is enforcing that?
Is BN shitting in the pants with the groundswell of discontent among the people in Penang. Is BN so afraid that Raja Petra will be the tipping point that push Penagnites to dump BN?
Can someone provide me some insights?
I was just wondering what the hell was going on in Sungai Siput. I hope the Chinese understand that all the funds for development is our money, not Samy’s.
Perhaps you can get more feedback on the latest there on Friday.
Why should the Chinese support Samy when even the Indians have rejected him?
Let is know if Penang will go to DAP?
The winds of change is strong everywhere. If this is not reflected in votes then there is something very wrong with our general elections.
Thank you Anil for the updates. I wish I could see the state of Penang in the hands of the opposition once in my life time!
Sami will meet his Waterloo The Indians will bury him for good The Chinese will say he deserved it Hiking toll charges unfriendly contracts And the Malays They have realized they got tricked Years ago benefiting little It is UMNO which took it all Sami can say until the cows go home Giving statistics to show how much he helped the Indians Did he know he is lying through? The percentage doesn’t add up at all His families and cronies had (allegedly) taken (a lot) of it What the rest of the Indians take? Crumbs spreading too far wide He… Read more »
This is a reader-supported public interest news site. Contributions to defray the cost of running this site are welcome. Read more.
| 9,995 |
We have a Committee of 10 dedicated members, who make decisions for the betterment, and progress of Hope House.
We meet every 1 - 2 months
My name is Jeremy Smith. I am married to Heather and have 2 daughters – Jessica and Amy.
I am an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Pinetown, and my hobby is gardening.
I got involved in Hope House when I was doing work in the Pro Life ministry. I realised the church needed to provide an alternative solution to abortion.
My name is Melani Nel – mostly known as Mel. I am married to Ian Nel and have 2 children. Branden-Lee is 18 years old and is currently doing an apprenticeship, and Caitlyn is 15 years old and attends Durban Girls' High School.
My Husband Ian and I own I & M Technical Projects, which is an electrical contracting company.
Caitlyn and I have been volunteering at Hope House for about 5 years now. I am involved in the caring of the babies, taking them out for periods/weekends and also in fund-raising activities.
My name is Yolanda Viljoen but preferably known as Landi. I am a mother of two amazing children and they have given me three beautiful grandchildren, two grandsons and a little princess. I got involved with baby Hope House by default or should I say by God’s intervention. I helped a volunteer babysit one evening and that was IT. I decided it was time to give back and now am treasurer for this amazing NPO. Every time I go to the home I come away a better person, the love, respect and admiration I have for all involved is unmeasurable.
| 1,571 |
“Checking the results of a decision against its expectations shows executives what their strengths are, where they need to improve, and where they lack knowledge or information.”
“Effective leadership is not about making speeches or being liked; leadership is defined by results not attributes.”
“Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.”
“Knowledge has to be improved, challenged, and increased constantly, or it vanishes.”
“Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.”
“People who don’t take risks generally make about two big mistakes a year. People who do take risks generally make about two big mistakes a year.”
“The entrepreneur always searches for change, responds to it, and exploits it as an opportunity.”
“The only thing we know about the future is that it will be different.”
“Time is the scarcest resource and unless it is managed nothing else can be managed.”
“Unless commitment is made, there are only promises and hopes; but no plans.”
“Management by objective works – if you know the objectives. Ninety percent of the time you don’t.”
“Never mind your happiness; do your duty.”
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
“We now accept the fact that learning is a lifelong process of keeping abreast of change. And the most pressing task is to teach people how to learn.”
“Morale in an organization does not mean that “people get along together”; the test is performance not conformance.”
“A man should never be appointed into a managerial position if his vision focuses on people’s weaknesses rather than on their strengths.” The Practice of Management (1954)
“It does not matter whether the worker wants responsibility or not, …The enterprise must demand it of him.” The Practice of Management (1954)
“The postwar [WWII] GI Bill of Rights–and the enthusiastic response to it on the part of America’s veterans–signaled the shift to the knowledge society. Future historians may consider it the most important event of the twentieth century. We are clearly in the midst of this transformation; indeed, if history is any guide, it will not be completed until 2010 or 2020. But already it has changed the political, economic and moral landscape of the world.” Managing in a Time of Great Change (1995)
“Most discussions of decision making assume that only senior executives make decisions or that only senior executives’ decisions matter. This is a dangerous mistake.”
“Never mind your happiness; do your duty.”
“Rank does not confer privilege or give power. It imposes responsibility.”
“Management by objective works – if you know the objectives. Ninety percent of the time you don’t.”
“Knowledge has to be improved, challenged, and increased constantly, or it vanishes.”
“We now accept the fact that learning is a lifelong process of keeping abreast of change. And the most pressing task is to teach people how to learn.”
“No institution can possibly survive if it needs geniuses or supermen to manage it. It must be organized in such a way as to be able to get along under a leadership composed of average human beings.”
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
“Business, that’s easily defined – it’s other people’s money.”
“Trying to predict the future is like trying to drive down a country road at night with no lights while looking out the back window.”
“The entrepreneur always searches for change, responds to it, and exploits it as an opportunity.”
“Making good decisions is a crucial skill at every level.”
‘Today knowledge has power. It controls access to opportunity and advancement.”
“Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.”
“The purpose of business is to create and keep a customer.”
“The leaders who work most effectively, it seems to me, never say ‘I’. And that’s not because they have trained themselves not to say ‘I’. They don’t think ‘I’. They think ‘we’; they think ‘team’. They understand their job to be to make the team function. They accept responsibility and don’t sidestep it, but ‘we’ gets the credit…. This is what creates trust, what enables you to get the task done.”
| 4,304 |
All things writing: My WsIP and tidbits I learn along the way, book reviews, an occasional author interview, and a hodgepodge of anything else on the topic of writing.
a little girl's hobby
Editing Newspapers & Novels
about my other blog
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Try it... you'll like it!
Or maybe not.
Call me old and set in my ways, but yes, I was resistant to the move to digital novels. I didn't resist the change in other media. I love reading news and magazine articles online. I love doing online research. I'm addicted to my PC. But books? No. I love holding a book in my hands... the feel of turning the pages. Then I got a Blackberry.
I'm one of those I only need my phone to make and receive calls kinda people. (I still don't like texting, but do use the feature with a few friends.) Around Christmastime, I was having increasing trouble with my old cell phone. It had seen better days. It was time for a new one. Mr J and I talked it over... we didn't want to be left behind by technology. We decided it was time for smart phones.
Within twenty-four hours of receiving my new Blackberry Torch, I had downloaded the NLT version of the Bible, and several more free ebooks along with the Nook app. I was hooked. I read more books in one week than I used to read in a month! But there was one I didn't read.
I won't mention the name of the ebook I deleted without reading past the first chapter. I would bet it was a self-pub. I can't see that MS making an impression on an agent or publisher. It wasn't just that it was slow starting... after many pages, the most I learned was how the MC loved her cat!
Last night I finished reading Deeper Water by Robert Whitlow. It was equally slow, yet I read it through to the end. What was the difference? Basically, the quality of the writing and how the characters appealed to me. I was intrigued by the main character, as well as her entire family. I was surprised to discover that it was Christian fiction. My purpose here isn't to review the book, but I do recommend it, and I am likely to purchase future ebooks by that author.
The focus of this post is on the try it before you buy it feature of ebooks. Most ebooks sources will allow you to preview a book before investing the money to buy it. Some will let you read several chapters even! No more standing in the aisle of a store reading the jacket and the first pages.
OK, I know this isn't breaking news. But it is an important point. What if my WIP is released as an ebook? Once they've read the first chapter, are readers going to fork out the bucks to read the rest?
I shared the story of the deleted ebook with Jody Hedlund, debut author of The Preacher's Bride. She replied that it fit with what she was preparing to post this week - The Increasing Importance of the First Chapter. There's no need for me to discuss it any further. She has covered the topic well in this post. Please do read it and let me know your thoughts.
Posted by Lillian Robinson on January 22, 2011
10 comments:
First chapters are SO important.They are what we send for contests, and to agents and part of our queries, not to mention as a reader, it's what we browse through first:)
I am one of the last to convert.I still love browsing those bookshelves.
January 22, 2011 at 1:24 PM
Rae said...
I have a new Blackberry too. I love all the new features on it. I haven't tried ebooks with it yet. I use my kindle for that. Like you I like to hold and feel a book, but it sure is nice to download a new book in a matter of seconds.
January 22, 2011 at 2:16 PM
Anonymous said...
I got myself a Kindle last fall, and I'm enjoying it -- particularly that "try it" feature; and you're absolutely right about the first chapter (even the first page!) being so very crucial.
January 22, 2011 at 2:29 PM
Interesting; do you not know which are self-pubbed books and which are not, when you download them? (I don't have an e-reader so I'm ignorant of the ins and outs.) I bet the excerpt trial IS handy, because I certainly love it on Amazon for books I want to order, to read a few pages on their "Look Inside" feature. Um, YES, it makes me wonder about my own first chapters...gulp.
January 22, 2011 at 6:58 PM
I think first chapters can start a bit slow, as long as they intrigue a bit, establish the pace of the rest of the novel, all that. But if all you know is that the MC loves her cat, then that's waaay too slow. So long as the pacing is good and the character is likable, I, as a reader, will keep going and be intrigued enough to finish the work.
So, I have to agree that first chapters are important, though they shouldn't stop somebody from writing the rest of the book either. Revision is a beautiful thing. :)
January 23, 2011 at 12:38 PM
I have not tried hand held ereaders, but I have read one book on my PC and did not like the experience. For me it's just not that comfortable to sit at my desk and read a book. I do recognize that it is essential for a modern author to make their work available in the e medium.
Good first chapters are very important. I will sometimes tolerate a bad opening and expect to be rewarded eventually, but I know that a lot of readers are impatient.
January 23, 2011 at 12:49 PM
Susan R. Mills said...
I recently discovered I could read books on my Blackberry. I love it. I still prefer to hold a book in my hand, but it's so convenient to just order one and have it on my phone in seconds. Plus, it allows me to read anywhere because I always have my phone with me.
January 25, 2011 at 3:13 PM
I've read books on the computer and did not like it.
As far as an ereader, there are too many negatives for me. When I read a book, I pass it along to my Mom and her friend. I couldn't do that with an ebook. Tonight, I looked at a book for the Kindle. It was less expensive to purchase a regular book.
I'll stick with the real thing.
January 27, 2011 at 9:30 PM
North Jersey Christian Writers Group said...
Thanks for stopping by and following Eternity Cafe. We are on the same journey. Looking forward to your insights.
As for the ereader - my mom bought my sister and I a nook 2 weeks ago. While I still love a real book, I also love the sample download feature of the ereader. I was on the treadmill when I got to the end of the sample, touched the "buy now" button, and kept reading without missing a step! That was fun ;)
February 23, 2011 at 3:06 PM
That first chapter thing is rather unfair... but I guess sadly true in this modern society of instant gratification! Many of my favourite novels are slow starters... particularly 19th century literature. There are certain authors I know I just have to get past the first couple of chapters that are bit slow in setting up the story, and then I'm in for a wild ride!
I've been tempted by the ebook phenomenon, but haven't been able to convince myself to go for it yet. Hard to choose between competing gadgets I guess...
March 28, 2011 at 3:03 PM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)
is protected by copyright law.
My desire is to be a published author. The problem is I have to first write a book! Occasionally I will post excerpts from my WIPs, as well as the bumps and lessons along the way. I am torn between my right and left brain. I am very analytical--love math because it is concrete. Yet, I love being creative--whether it be crafts, designing, or writing. I have lived in small towns, the city, the suburbs,the country, and now a 55+ community on a river. I seem to derive some kind of joy by starting numerous projects that I cannot possibly finish. I will occasionally document my progress on some of them (or lack thereof) in my other blog. I hope that you will check out both my blogs and leave comments... Even better - become a follower!
Many of life's failures are people
who did not realize how close
they were to success when . . .
they gave up.
Is there no limit to windy words?
Posts
Posts
Comments
Comments
Blog Archive September (1) September (1) May (1) January (1) December (1) November (2) October (1) September (3) July (1) June (2) May (3) April (2) March (2) February (1) June (2) March (1) February (2) December (1) September (3) August (2) July (1) June (1) May (6) April (1) March (2) February (2) December (2) October (1) July (1) June (1) May (2) March (2) July (1) June (1) September (2) August (3) July (1) January (3) March (3) January (2) December (5) November (4) October (4) September (8) August (10) July (8) June (9) May (10) April (6) March (5)
| 9,054 |
Please read our privacy policy Opinions expressed on Shaw Sports are those of each individual contributor and not the site as a whole. If you are interested in contributing to ShawSports.Net please email us at warren@shawsports.net
Recent Posts
Will the New Lakers Head Coach be a Game Changer?
The secrets behind HBO’s Winning Time with co-creator Jim Hecht
ProFitX is looking to change the game of basketball analytics
Baseball
Basketball
Featured
In the Community
Archives Select Month July 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013
| 1,903 |
I’ve gone to a leafs game in Buffalo before - it was like 80% leafs fans and the peace bridge border line afterwards was hilariously terrible, backing out onto I190.
Canadians make up 10-20% of Buffalo's season ticket holders.
Originally Posted by elly63 (Post 9752890)
How does that help? So they can buy US college hockey cheaply and build a market for it among the American wannabees?
I think an over-arching Canadian governing body for hockey is essential, but I have a hard time imagining the current Hockey Canada organization surviving this.
I suspect they will soon be disbanded and then something else will be started up under a new name.
Not exactly the same thing as the Red Cross survived as an emergency assistance provider, but their mismanagement of the blood supply system, which was as a result taken away from them, comes to mind.
Originally Posted by elly63 (Post 9752890)
How does that help? So they can buy US college hockey cheaply and build a market for it among the American wannabees?
It's actually kind of surprising that this hasn't been done. There is very little NCAA hockey coverage in Canada and it's the sort of thing I'd imagine Canadian networks could buy pretty cheaply as filler content. Speaking for myself, I'd sooner watch NCAA hockey than all the other NCAA sports on TV.
I think the only NCAA hockey currently on my cable package apart from the Frozen Four (NCAA finals) are the occasional local broadcasts on channels from North Dakota and Minnesota, but it's pretty rare.
Incidentally, one of my neighbours has a brother that is a former pro player who now coaches a NCAA team... he graciously gave my kids a bunch of team swag back in the summer so I guess now we're big fans :haha:
TSN typically shows a few weekly NCAA hockey games in the leadup to the Frozen Four. It's really entertaining hockey and pretty good viewing - definitely better than CHL depending on the matchup.
I should add that NCAA hockey continues to expand, adding more and more programs each year. There are new D1 programs this season at Lindenwood (St. Louis) and Stonehill (Massachusetts) as well as Alaska-Anchorage returning from hiatus. I think there's now more NCAA programs than CHL teams, and if not then it's equivalent. One is growing and the other is not... :cowboy:
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753108)
It's actually kind of surprising that this hasn't been done. There is very little NCAA hockey coverage in Canada and it's the sort of thing I'd imagine Canadian networks could buy pretty cheaply as filler content. Speaking for myself, I'd sooner watch NCAA hockey than all the other NCAA sports on TV.
I think the only NCAA hockey currently on my cable package apart from the Frozen Four (NCAA finals) are the occasional local broadcasts on channels from North Dakota and Minnesota, but it's pretty rare.
Incidentally, one of my neighbours has a brother that is a former pro player who now coaches a NCAA team... he graciously gave my kids a bunch of team swag back in the summer so I guess now we're big fans :haha:
Does WDAZ in grand forks still air UND games? I get the weekend NDSU football games from them in fargo.
Originally Posted by Acajack (Post 9753002)
I think an over-arching Canadian governing body for hockey is essential, but I have a hard time imagining the current Hockey Canada organization surviving this.
I suspect they will soon be disbanded and then something else will be started up under a new name.
The organization as it stands may not survive at least in the current configuration, and I suspect there will be wholesale house cleaning in the next few weeks.
Quite a number of other sports have had major changes to their governance after some serious reviews. Hockey Canada was just too big and too powerful financially. It will be interesting to see what the new governing body will be after this. There will definitely be more outside monitoring and auditing.
I have been reading a scathing review from another sport after athlete complaints. It will be interesting to see how that plays out for a staff driven organization.
Originally Posted by JHikka (Post 9753130)
TSN typically shows a few weekly NCAA hockey games in the leadup to the Frozen Four. It's really entertaining hockey and pretty good viewing - definitely better than CHL depending on the matchup.
I should add that NCAA hockey continues to expand, adding more and more programs each year. There are new D1 programs this season at Lindenwood (St. Louis) and Stonehill (Massachusetts) as well as Alaska-Anchorage returning from hiatus. I think there's now more NCAA programs than CHL teams, and if not then it's equivalent. One is growing and the other is not... :cowboy:
Originally Posted by JHikka (Post 9753130)
TSN typically shows a few weekly NCAA hockey games in the leadup to the Frozen Four. It's really entertaining hockey and pretty good viewing - definitely better than CHL depending on the matchup.
I should add that NCAA hockey continues to expand, adding more and more programs each year. There are new D1 programs this season at Lindenwood (St. Louis) and Stonehill (Massachusetts) as well as Alaska-Anchorage returning from hiatus. I think there's now more NCAA programs than CHL teams, and if not then it's equivalent. One is growing and the other is not... :cowboy:
Or one could say that the CHL grew to fill viable markets decades ago and the NCAA is just getting around to that now.
Originally Posted by thurmas (Post 9753139)
Does WDAZ in grand forks still air UND games? I get the weekend NDSU football games from them in fargo.
I vaguely recall seeing ND hockey in the channel guide but I can't remember exactly when. Their games are normally on some US cable channel.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753183)
Or one could say that the CHL grew to fill viable markets decades ago and the NCAA is just getting around to that now.
I think a lot of it ties in to the current issues revolving around HC. Not only have they been negligent on items such as SA and other internal matters but they've also been stagnant in attempting to grow the game or build the game in any meaningful fashion, or even attempting to maintain the game in a way to ensure its future. When was the last time the CHL net-added a new team that wasn't a relocation? 15 years ago? They have nearly no presence in some of this country's largest cities and show no signs of returning there. A lack of proper leadership at HC is one root cause of this. At this point there's no reason to believe that hockey isn't moving in the same direction as other sports in this country - university in the US proving a more viable option than that of junior in Canada. The more schools the US adds the more spots there'll be, whether they're in Minnesota, Missouri, or Arizona.
At this point I think it's safe to say that the CHL could probably cut a few teams and not really see any immediate downside, but that's another discussion.
Originally Posted by JHikka (Post 9753194)
I think a lot of it ties in to the current issues revolving around HC. Not only have they been negligent on items such as SA and other internal matters but they've also been stagnant in attempting to grow the game or build the game in any meaningful fashion, or even attempting to maintain the game in a way to ensure its future. When was the last time the CHL net-added a new team that wasn't a relocation? 15 years ago? They have nearly no presence in some of this country's largest cities and show no signs of returning there. A lack of proper leadership at HC is one root cause of this. At this point there's no reason to believe that hockey isn't moving in the same direction as other sports in this country - university in the US proving a more viable option than that of junior in Canada. The more schools the US adds the more spots there'll be, whether they're in Minnesota, Missouri, or Arizona.
At this point I think it's safe to say that the CHL could probably cut a few teams and not really see any immediate downside, but that's another discussion.
In some respects, NCAA hockey is not that different from the CHL in terms of where it does best. It tends to thrive in places without NHL teams. There are certain exceptions in both cases, but by and large this is true. The big advantage that the NCAA has is that there are way more population centres in the US without NHL teams.
The CHL is already in all the large Canadian markets, St. John's is the only top-20 metro without a team and that's just because of the travel costs associated with their isolation. On the whole, the large market western teams (including Vancouver) do reasonably well in terms of attendance, team profile, etc., especially considering the pros have centre stage. Ottawa-Gatineau is similar. It's really just Toronto and Montreal where you have CHL teams being afterthoughts in the market, and I don't know how you can really pin that on the CHL.
Ultimately I think junior hockey is about places like Sherbrooke and Lethbridge. That's their bread and butter, much like how the NCAA's hockey strongholds are places like Grand Forks and Madison.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9749909)
Do fans travel in great numbers for anything in Canada, though? The distances are so vast that not all that many people are going to go from, say, Edmonton to Vancouver or whatever to watch their home team play on the road. It's not like going from Chicago to Milwaukee or what have you.
Any well supported local sports team is generally supported by locals, not by away fans in any significant numbers. So in that sense U Sports teams have large population bases to potentially draw from... they don't necessarily need visitors.
Because the Jays fan base is all across Canada, and some MLB cities in the US are within driving distance of the border, a number of US cities get decent attendance from Jays fans.
Several mentioned Seattle already; I made the trip in early July, and actually made a one-week vacation out of it. I went to two of the Jays games at T-Mobile Park, and easily over half of the fans in attendance were Canadian. I was on the Link train on the way to one of the games, I spoke with people visiting from Maple Ridge, Langley, and even one guy who came all the way from Lethbridge. In the stands I was sitting next to some people visiting from Abbotsford.
I recall earlier in the season when the Jays played a rare interleague series in Pittsburgh; there were a sizable number of Jays fans in the stands. This also happened when the Jays played a series against Minnesota (though they're in the AL). Detroit is an obvious location for Jays fans crossing the border, and I would imagine Cleveland gets a decent number of Jays fans.
Myself, I have plans for next year to take a vacation in April doing a two-week tour of the Southwest, see the Jays in Anaheim, and then in Houston. I have my doubts there will be many Jays fans at those games, but I'm sure I won't be the only one. Especially if the Jays go far in the upcoming playoffs.
On the hockey side, with border restrictions now gone, I would expect that some Vancouver Canucks fans will travel to Seattle for Kraken games this season. It likely won't be like Jays fans going to Seattle as Canucks fans can just see home games in Vancouver, but I'd expect there would be some.
Originally Posted by Airboy (Post 9753165)
The organization as it stands may not survive at least in the current configuration, and I suspect there will be wholesale house cleaning in the next few weeks.
Quite a number of other sports have had major changes to their governance after some serious reviews. Hockey Canada was just too big and too powerful financially. It will be interesting to see what the new governing body will be after this. There will definitely be more outside monitoring and auditing.
I have been reading a scathing review from another sport after athlete complaints. It will be interesting to see how that plays out for a staff driven organization.
What was most shocking to me was interim Hockey Canada board chair Andrea Skinner's attitude in this week's hearings. It is disappointing enough to see an old boys' club defending their organization's deficiencies, but to see a woman defending the organization against allegations of gang rape by male hockey players against women is especially disappointing. It's a huge disservice to all women, especially those who have been victimized by rape.
What little respect I'd had for Hockey Canada before this week was wiped out by Skinner. Fortunately, Telus, Tim Hortons and Canadian Tire are making moves that should hopefully financially cripple Hockey Canada and leave them with no choice but to either shut down or completely change for the better.
I want to commend my MP, Peter Julien who has been a big part of these hearings grilling them.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753219)
In some respects, NCAA hockey is not that different from the CHL in terms of where it does best. It tends to thrive in places without NHL teams. There are certain exceptions in both cases, but by and large this is true. The big advantage that the NCAA has is that there are way more population centres in the US without NHL teams.
The CHL is already in all the large Canadian markets, St. John's is the only top-20 metro without a team and that's just because of the travel costs associated with their isolation. On the whole, the large market western teams (including Vancouver) do reasonably well in terms of attendance, team profile, etc., especially considering the pros have centre stage. Ottawa-Gatineau is similar. It's really just Toronto and Montreal where you have CHL teams being afterthoughts in the market, and I don't know how you can really pin that on the CHL.
Ultimately I think junior hockey is about places like Sherbrooke and Lethbridge. That's their bread and butter, much like how the NCAA's hockey strongholds are places like Grand Forks and Madison.
These are all fair points. I think it's worth mentioning that places like Boston have a number of successful NCAA programs whilst simultaneously being in an NHL market. Obviously there's a different culture surrounding NCAA programs and CHL teams, and different revenue levers, but it's worth mentioning that the NCAA can exist in this shared-NHL environment more than the CHL, at least in terms of this one specific example. I guess Minnesota and Michigan might be the only other two reasonable examples given the sheer number of NCAA programs in those states. Maybe Buffalo.
The CHL is definitely more about these mid-sized markets. I'm actually curious to see how a market like Halifax reacts, mostly regarding the CHL, as more professional teams move into the market and soak up potential sales. The CHL has been struggling more these days in smaller markets (at least in Eastern Canada) so presumably that same sort of struggle may reach upwards given enough time.
Originally Posted by esquire
It's really just Toronto and Montreal where you have CHL teams being afterthoughts in the market, and I don't know how you can really pin that on the CHL.
I guess i'm splitting hairs a bit but the Giants left Vancouver for Langley a few years ago. I guess we can argue about whether or not we consider that the city - i'm not really considering Mississauga, Oshawa, or Blainville within Toronto or Montreal, so Langley would fall into that category as well. I don't know. It makes me wonder if the Hitmen or Oil Kings would survive in those cities if they're weren't owned by NHL groups - the 67s will be downgrading their arena scope in the coming years.
Originally Posted by manny_santos (Post 9753220)
I recall earlier in the season when the Jays played a rare interleague series in Pittsburgh; there were a sizable number of Jays fans in the stands. This also happened when the Jays played a series against Minnesota (though they're in the AL). Detroit is an obvious location for Jays fans crossing the border, and I would imagine Cleveland gets a decent number of Jays fans.
It's not difficult to find Jays fans at games in New York or Boston, either, but those are less surprising.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753219)
It's really just Toronto and Montreal where you have CHL teams being afterthoughts in the market, and I don't know how you can really pin that on the CHL.
How do the Vancouver Giants do for attendance? I've never been to one of their games, which are played out in Langley.
Originally Posted by JHikka (Post 9753235)
I guess i'm splitting hairs a bit but the Giants left Vancouver for Langley a few years ago. I guess we can argue about whether or not we consider that the city - i'm not really considering Mississauga, Oshawa, or Blainville within Toronto or Montreal, so Langley would fall into that category as well. I don't know. It makes me wonder if the Hitmen or Oil Kings would survive in those cities if they're weren't owned by NHL groups - the 67s will be downgrading their arena scope in the coming years.
It's like calling the baseball Angels team the LA Angels. They don't play in LA, or even in LA County; they moved to Anaheim in 1966 and have been there ever since. But it's still in the Los Angeles metro area.
Originally Posted by manny_santos (Post 9753239)
How do the Vancouver Giants do for attendance? I've never been to one of their games, which are played out in Langley.
2018-2019: 3,826
Worth pointing out that the Canucks purchased the NLL Vancouver Warriors in 2018, moving them from Langley to Rogers Arena shortly after the Giants moved in the opposite direction. The CPL will be starting up in Langley in the spring.
Originally Posted by JHikka (Post 9753235)
These are all fair points. I think it's worth mentioning that places like Boston have a number of successful NCAA programs whilst simultaneously being in an NHL market. Obviously there's a different culture surrounding NCAA programs and CHL teams, and different revenue levers, but it's worth mentioning that the NCAA can exist in this shared-NHL environment more than the CHL, at least in terms of this one specific example. I guess Minnesota and Michigan might be the only other two reasonable examples given the sheer number of NCAA programs in those states. Maybe Buffalo.
Yes, Boston is the most obvious exception to that rule. New England is kind of the heartland of NCAA hockey, so it makes sense. Minnesota, Michigan and Colorado would be the other places where both are doing well. But that is not that dissimilar from how the Oil Kings, Hitmen, 67s, Olympiques and Giants do reasonably well for themselves in NHL markets.
The CHL is definitely more about these mid-sized markets. I'm actually curious to see how a market like Halifax reacts, mostly regarding the CHL, as more professional teams move into the market and soak up potential sales. The CHL has been struggling more these days in smaller markets (at least in Eastern Canada) so presumably that same sort of struggle may reach upwards given enough time.
I guess i'm splitting hairs a bit but the Giants left Vancouver for Langley a few years ago. I guess we can argue about whether or not we consider that the city - i'm not really considering Mississauga, Oshawa, or Blainville within Toronto or Montreal, so Langley would fall into that category as well. I don't know. It makes me wonder if the Hitmen or Oil Kings would survive in those cities if they're weren't owned by NHL groups - the 67s will be downgrading their arena scope in the coming years.
The Giants play in Langley but they are the Vancouver team and the local media covers them as such. I mean, would you say the Sens aren't Ottawa's team because they're in Kanata? The Steelheads, Giants and Armada may not be downtown, but they are still located in those markets even if it is the suburbs.
Anyway, this is to say that the CHL of today looks pretty much like the CHL of 10, 20, 30 years ago... it occupies more or less the same place in the Canadian hockey firmament that it did back then so I can't accept the narrative that it is declining or dying just because it isn't adding two teams every season.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753262)
Yes, Boston is the most obvious exception to that rule. New England is kind of the heartland of NCAA hockey, so it makes sense. Minnesota, Michigan and Colorado would be the other places where both are doing well. But that is not that dissimilar from how the Oil Kings, Hitmen, 67s, Olympiques and Giants do reasonably well for themselves in NHL markets.
Of course. My point was more that half of your examples of CHL teams in those NHL markets are directly owned by the NHL teams themselves. One of the two that aren't are in the process of moving to a smaller arena (67s) and the other (Olympiques) moved further away from the NHL team to get into a better market for their own team. I don't think a CHL team can exist in the same space as an NHL team and expect to continue on as usual unless they're owned and operated by the NHL teams they're competing against for eyeballs.
If the CHL does well in its 'traditional' markets is it because it's a compelling product or because there's no competition? Halifax will lead us to some sort of answer in the coming years.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753262)
The Giants play in Langley but they are the Vancouver team and the local media covers them as such. I mean, would you say the Sens aren't Ottawa's team because they're in Kanata?
I mean, being located outside of Ottawa is one reason as to why the Senators at times struggle. :haha:
An NHL team being located out in the suburbs is a different kettle of fish than a local junior team in the same area given the scope and relevance of those teams and leagues. How'd the 67s do in Kanata when Lansdowne was being renovated? Not very well. And they've struggled to recover since.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753262)
The Steelheads, Giants and Armada may not be downtown, but they are still located in those markets even if it is the suburbs.
I guess we'll agree to disagree. I don't see those teams as having any impact on the urban centres in terms of being in the market and having any sort of impact, and many of these suburbs take on different characters than the urban centres at times. The Steelheads have always been one of the weakest OHL markets and Blainville are usually pretty middling. I suppose that's a better fate than the Rocket, Montreal Junior, or St. Mike's.
Originally Posted by esquire (Post 9753262)
Anyway, this is to say that the CHL of today looks pretty much like the CHL of 10, 20, 30 years ago... it occupies more or less the same place in the Canadian hockey firmament that it did back then so I can't accept the narrative that it is declining or dying just because it isn't adding two teams every season.
I think it's moreso that it's not moving into new markets or doing anything new whilst struggling to gain traction to do anything different than what they've been doing over the past 30 years. The Q successfully branched in the Maritimes in the 90s but since then have mostly been static - AFAIK both Baie-Comeau and Acadie-Bathurst are directly supported by their local municipalities in order to remain in those (declining) markets. I don't think it would hurt the league to cut four teams, honestly, given the level of play, but that's more of a discussion of quality and number of players available than business case. The OHL could probably lose two teams and not really bat an eye quality-of-play wise.
| 24,737 |
Archives Select Month December 2022 November 2022 October 2022 September 2022 August 2022 July 2022 June 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 June 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012
ABOUT US
All content for Grady Newsource is crafted by journalism students
in the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia
© 2022
English
Arabic Bulgarian Chinese (Simplified) Dutch English French Georgian German Italian Portuguese Russian Spanish
| 1,727 |
In planning our Easter adventure around Scotland, we quickly realised that our desire to visit all the places we were hoping to go would create what can only be described as a whistle-stop tour of the country. We could easily have chosen a half-dozen more places that one of the other of us, or perhaps even both, wanted to see and I can already foresee more visits North being squeezed into our future travel plans. For each location we settled on, we decided to stay just 2 night only, giving us one full day to explore where we were and so asked G and M to do a little research about different museums they wanted to visit or landmarks they’d like to see. There were no promises that we’d manage to do any or all of these, but I was keen for them to be as excited about our travels as we were.
The first leg of our journey took us to Liverpool, famously home to The Beatles as well as Premier League football clubs, the Grand National and the White Star Shipping Line, owners of the ill-fated Titanic. Mike and I spent a long weekend in the city for our 15th wedding anniversary a couple of years ago and so had already determined that we wanted to take the children to “The Beatles Story” exhibition at Albert Dock. A lengthy Google search by G and M led to the discovery of “Western Approaches”, a museum delving into Liverpool’s role during WW2. As both children have been studying aspects of the First and Second World Wars at school, they quickly decided that this was somewhere they absolutely wanted to go and Mike and I were more than happy to agree.
After a quick breakfast in our hotel room, something we usually choose to do as it ensures we have safe cereal and milk for both children whilst we’re away from home, we headed off on foot to our first destination, “The Beatles Story” exhibition. This marvellous museum is based at the iconic Albert Dock and charts the history of The Beatles, starting with childhood stories and finishing with all that the individual members of the band have gone on in their solo careers. As always, we all opted for the audio guides, something that M loves to do as he listens to the stories unfold as he traipses round the exhibits and touring at our own paces, moved from room to room. I’ll be honest and say that M didn’t manage to stay engaged for the entire exhibit, but he did reasonably well and by the time he’d had enough, I was ready to remove my headphones and wander the remaining spaces with him. Both children enjoyed the museum, especially the areas displaying memorabilia and costumes and picked up some interesting facts about one of our favourite bands. They also loved walking around Albert Dock and exploring the multitude of small shops that are there.
From Albert Dock, we walked back to Liverpool One, where we found a fantastic allergy-friendly diner for lunch. I will leave reviewing our dining choices until my next blog, but I will tease you with the tidbit that this lunch-time destination was easily one of the best we went to and M was desperate to go back again if only time had allowed. After a late lunch, it was time to go on to the children’s choice of the Western Approaches War museum. Hidden in a fairly unprepossessing building, I cannot begin to tell you just how fantastic this small museum turned out to be. Based in the wartime bunker beneath Derby House, Western Approaches takes you on a journey explaining just how the Battle of the Atlantic was won by the Allied Forces. The staff were incredibly knowledgable and helpful and took a keen interest in explaining what we were going to see to both children before we entered. G had just been learning about the Battle of the Atlantic at school and so it seemed a particularly apt museum choice, especially when she was told that young women, not much older than her, would have been working down there during the war years.
What particularly appealed to M whilst we were here was the Treasure Hunt that saw him toting a gas mask case filled with instructions, code-breaking equipment, notepads and a mini UV light around with him. Some of the clues were easier to crack than others and both children had a great time trying to find where they were hidden and working out where they needed to look next. Most of the exhibits were hands on, which is great for children of all ages and both M and G quickly spotted the link to Bletchley Park and the code-breaking work that went on there during WW2. My favourite bit came right at the end of our visit, when we reached the street scene set up, including unexploded bomb and the tiny canteen asking for 2d for a cup of tea or coffee. I happily paid my 2p over, plus a little bit more to support their cause, and sat down to enjoy it whilst we all played one of the period board games that was available. It was a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours on a fairly grey and miserable afternoon and I would highly recommend this museum to anyone who’s looking for something to do in Liverpool.
The only disappointment with our visit was that we hadn’t realised that the Terracotta Warriors are currently on display at the World Museum, something that Mike and I would both love to take the children to see. We were lucky enough to see them in-situ in Xian when we visited China back in 2001 and want to take advantage of this opportunity to share this fascinating exhibit with G and M. Our plan is to book tickets for a visit there over the summer and have another long weekend in Liverpool, perhaps experiencing some of the other things we didn’t manage to do on this trip.
This entry was posted in Family, Reviews, Travels and tagged Battle of the Atlantic, Bletchley Park, Breakfast, code-breaking, Derby House, Easter, family, holidays, Liverpool, Liverpoool War Museum, parenting, safe food, Special Diets, Station X, stress free travelling, Terracotta Warriors, The Beatles Story exhibition, treasure hunt, Western Approaches, World Museum, World War 2, WW2, WWII, Xian China on April 26, 2018 by bluesingingdragon.
There are 2 things that are promising to totally transform the look of M’s packed lunches for school in 2017. The first is the reintroduction of parsnips to his diet as I’m finally able to cook a crisp-like addition for his lunchbox, which makes them seem a lot more like those of his friends after a long time of feeling so very different. The second was thanks to a somewhat last-minute Christmas present from good ol’ Father Christmas, which M is absolutely thrilled with and can’t wait to try out now that the new term has started – an individual thermos flask complete with a folding metal spoon tucked neatly into its top.
He’s been considering the matter at great length and has already come up with a long list of meals that he is keen to try out over the coming months. From pasta dishes including lasagne, to risotto and stir-fry, the options are endless, but today’s maiden meal was new-found favourite, parsnip and apple soup. This simple meal is beautifully easy to make, which is something I’m extremely grateful for now that I’m back to work full-time and every second saved cooking is a second gainfully employed somewhere else. Even better, the range of herbs and spices that I can safely add to M’s meals means that I can create enough subtle flavour differences to his soups to provide some much-needed variety and keep him engaged in the novelty of his first hot school lunches in a long time.
For the launch of our experimental hot meals at school, I made a spicy apple and parsnip soup and included a few of the Rude Health mini rice crackers that have become an integral part of many of M’s lunch and snack times. Whilst nothing can really compare to the unquestionable delight of dipping some crusty French bread into a bowl of rich, creamy soup, the portion of homemade, and safe, parsnip and apple soup accompanied by a handful of rice crackers was everything that M was longing for it to be and that meant it was a resounding success. Over the coming weeks I’m looking forward to experimenting a little more with texture and flavour and will be looking at replacing the apple with pear as well as changing the herbs added to each bowlful. Most of all, I’m hoping that M continues to be excited about the prospect of enjoying a mix of hot and cold meals during the next few months of the school year.
This entry was posted in Allergy friendly recipes, Chronic Illness, EGID, Food Allergies, Friendship, School, Special Needs Parenting and tagged Allergy, Awareness, Christmas, Dairy free, Egg free, EGID, Food, food allergies, friends, gluten-free, home cooking, lunch, M-friendly, M-friendly soup, mini rice cakes, packed lunches, parenting, parsnip & apple soup, present, rice crackers, Rude Health Mini Rice Thins, safe food, school, school dinners, school lunches, Special Diets, thermos flask on January 5, 2017 by bluesingingdragon.
Leave a reply
449 challenging days of trialling one food after another until 17 foods have been tasted and rejected by M’s body.
449 emotional days of soaring highs and crashing lows as hope is dashed time and time again.
449 testing days of comforting and reassuring and convincing an increasingly despondent 10-year-old that we will keep trying, keep persevering until we find that elusive new safe food.
449 long days since M last successfully trialled a food and believe me when I say that we have all felt the impact of every single one of those days.
A glorious, cheerful day. A day when food challenge number 18 was accepted and finally, after 449 days of waiting, the sun peeked out from behind the dark clouds and we had success.
This success has been hard-fought for on all levels and we all needed it, not least M. After nearly 15 months on a diet consisting of rice, chicken, cucumber, apple and pear day in, day out, he finally gets to add parsnips to his list and there’s no-one more delighted than him. It’s not been a 100% pass, but it is one that he desperately needs right now and we’ve taken the decision that the boost to his morale is worth so much more than total perfection. We’re only a couple of weeks in and the variation it has already brought to meal-times is, quite simply, a game-changer. From mashed parsnips to parsnip crisps and roasted parsnips to parsnip and apple soup, the options are endless and so are the smiles in our house. And, just like that, those 449 days are over and forgotten, and instead we’ve started on day 1 of our next set of adventures.
This entry was posted in Chronic Illness, EGID, Food Allergies, Parenting, Special Needs Parenting and tagged Allergy, Awareness, Conditions and Diseases, EGID, Food, food allergies, food challenge, food trials, health issues, home cooking, ill health, new challenges, parenting, parsnips, restricted diets, safe food, safe foods, Special Diets on December 12, 2016 by bluesingingdragon.
The end of August always seems to be something of a surprise in our household. We arrive home from our holiday feeling relaxed and calm and then almost immediately face a madcap race to reach the finish line of shoes bought, uniform named, PE kits found and bags packed before school starts. In years past I have also had to make sure provisions are packed, discussions had and medical notes updated for M, but, for the first time ever, this year I wasn’t trying to squeeze in a critical meeting alongside my own new start with a new job. I know that next year when M moves up to our local secondary school it will be a very different picture, but after 3 years of working with the teaching community at our junior school, and with no major changes to contend with, M was able to start in Year 6 without this over-anxious Mum hovering in the background.
Without a doubt we have been incredibly lucky with the amazing support given by the fantastic teaching staff at our local school, but we have also had more than our fair share of bad experiences and teachers who don’t care in the past and I can well remember the anxieties and hours of meticulous planning that heralded the start of every new school year. The novelty of not having to head into the classroom before the end of M’s first week back has still not worn off and I’m certain that it’s thanks to the hard work that’s been put in on all sides to formulate strategies that meet M’s needs and to develop a strong working relationship between home and school that is reliant on open communication that flows both ways.
Over the last few weeks, there’s be a lot of chatter in the online allergy community about the fears that surround the milestone of starting school and, with over 8 years of “parenting-a-school-child-with-allergies” experience under my belt, I’ve been asked what tips I would give to any parent facing this situation for the first time. In all honesty, M’s first few years at school were difficult and certainly not the positive experience we would have liked. We had to deal with a SENCo, who trivialised his allergies because they “…wouldn’t have to call 999 if he ate something he shouldn’t…” and refused to recognise how important it was to communicate his allergies and health issues to any member of staff dealing with him and not just his class teacher, which led to numerous occasions of him being offered food he couldn’t eat. His teachers lost their focus in teaching him because they felt he already had a lot to cope with with his regular appointments at GOSH and his education suffered as speech impediments, dyslexia and dyspraxia were missed by those who worked with him on a day-to-day basis.
Fast-forward to the start of Year 3 and all our negative experiences became a thing of the past. The year actually began at the end of Year 2, when I met with the Head, SENCo and class teacher of his new school to discuss all of M’s health and educational needs and worked with them to put practical solutions into place before the term started. They understood the value of seeing him as more than just his EGID and food allergies, but also knew that his health problems were a big part of his everyday life and couldn’t be ignored. At the end of his first week there, M’s teacher held a circle time in class where she shared about M’s ill-health and restricted diet with his classmates. It was done in such a nurturing and non-confrontational manner that by the end of the session M was willing to answer any question that his new friends had about what they had been told himself and has being doing so ever since.
The information sheets that I had provided were given to the teachers and, combined with the notes they had taken whilst talking with me, used to draw up a healthcare plan for M that covered all possible situations. His on-going bowel control problems were sensitively handled and a contingency plan put in place to ensure that he always has access to a toilet wherever he is in the school. The HCP was written by the school SENCo and then sent home for my review before being published, shared with the whole teaching team and displayed prominently in the staff-room. Even better, every year since then I have been asked to review and amend his HCP to reflect any medical changes that have happened and the school continue to be sympathetic to his needs.
As for his swap box, it has proved to be an invaluable tool in the classroom setting and is something that is really easy to implement. The idea behind the swap box is a simple one – it contains a selection of safe items, be they edible or non-edible, that can be swapped for those unexpected treats that sometimes come into the classroom to celebrate birthdays or other special events. When M’s swap box came into being, it was filled with a mix of Haribo sweets and the odd Lego minifigure and the choice was his as to what he chose to take. Since going elemental 2 years ago, the box now contains Lego, trading cards and other fun small toys and ensures that M never feels that he is missing out when his friends celebrate. What’s more, his teachers have taken inspiration from it for their own purchases of small gifts at Christmas or the end of term and given him something he can enjoy.
I think the biggest secret to our great experience with our Junior school is communication. The lines of communication are always open and actively work in both directions between home and school through meetings, phone calls, e-mails and the home/school book. The willingness of so many of the school staff to learn to support M to the best of their ability has created a level of trust unlike any other and means that I am happy to leave M in their more than capable hands on a daily basis. It is a testament to their dedication to their work that, in the last 3 years, the only things that have caused an extended absence from school have been the annual hospital admissions at GOSH. They have always endeavoured to make sure that M is safe whilst at school and the fact that he was able to attend as normal with both his NG feeding tube and his broken leg is incredible. A truly remarkable relationship has grown over the years between our family and so many of the teachers and is something I really value.
They have also nurtured and encouraged M to talk about his allergies and EGID and have shown continued support as he has become an advocate for educating others about his illness. M has held cake sales, run playground games and created short films explaining the impact his diagnosis has on his life. He has developed a confidence in talking to others and 18 months ago was able to answer the questions asked by members of every class in the school. When he left his Infants school, he was a child reluctant to talk about his food allergies or hospital appointments because he was scared of being isolated and bullied because of how different he was to everyone else. These days he has an incredibly strong friendship group who look out for him during school hours and think about him when he’s had to be in hospital, and he never thinks twice to share what’s going on with his friends.
If I had to sum it up, I guess I would say this:
Be open, be honest, be available. Keep communicating and tell them how they can make it better if you need to. Do what you can to help them out and don’t forget to say thank you when they get it right.
This entry was posted in Chronic Illness, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia, EGID, Family, Friendship, Parenting, School, Special Needs Parenting and tagged Allergy, broken bones, broken leg, circle time, communication, community, Conditions and Diseases, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, E028, Education, EGID, FABED, feeding tube, food allergies, friends, GOSH, Great Ormond Street Hospital, HCP, health issues, healthcare plan, holidays, ill health, information sheets, Lego minifigure, local community, M-friendly treats, new school year, new term, NG tube, NG tube feeding, parenting, planning, plans, safe food, school, SENCo, Special Diets, starting school, summer, support, Swap box, teachers, tips, trust on September 22, 2016 by bluesingingdragon.
Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.
Email Address:
Archives Select Month November 2022 (2) October 2022 (3) September 2022 (2) August 2022 (1) January 2022 (1) December 2021 (1) November 2021 (1) October 2021 (1) September 2021 (5) August 2021 (1) July 2021 (1) June 2021 (1) May 2021 (3) April 2021 (3) March 2021 (4) February 2021 (4) January 2021 (3) December 2020 (5) November 2020 (4) October 2020 (5) September 2020 (4) August 2020 (4) July 2020 (5) June 2020 (4) May 2020 (6) April 2020 (6) March 2020 (6) February 2020 (4) January 2020 (7) December 2019 (6) November 2019 (4) October 2019 (7) September 2019 (6) August 2019 (5) July 2019 (2) June 2019 (7) May 2019 (3) April 2019 (2) March 2019 (3) February 2019 (2) January 2019 (6) December 2018 (3) November 2018 (4) October 2018 (5) September 2018 (3) August 2018 (1) July 2018 (4) June 2018 (6) May 2018 (11) April 2018 (7) March 2018 (1) February 2018 (4) January 2018 (4) December 2017 (6) November 2017 (8) October 2017 (7) September 2017 (5) August 2017 (3) July 2017 (5) June 2017 (5) May 2017 (9) April 2017 (6) March 2017 (7) February 2017 (4) January 2017 (8) December 2016 (9) November 2016 (9) October 2016 (10) September 2016 (9) August 2016 (8) July 2016 (9) June 2016 (9) May 2016 (14) April 2016 (8) March 2016 (10) February 2016 (14) January 2016 (8) December 2015 (4) November 2015 (9) October 2015 (9) September 2015 (9) August 2015 (5) July 2015 (7) June 2015 (10) May 2015 (11) April 2015 (10) March 2015 (8) February 2015 (7) January 2015 (8) December 2014 (8) November 2014 (7) October 2014 (10) September 2014 (11) August 2014 (7) July 2014 (10) June 2014 (7) May 2014 (12) April 2014 (4) March 2014 (7) February 2014 (6) January 2014 (5) December 2013 (7) November 2013 (5) October 2013 (8) September 2013 (9) August 2013 (6) July 2013 (9) June 2013 (11) May 2013 (16) April 2013 (6) March 2013 (4)
allergic reaction
allergy-friendly
Baking
Chronic Illness
Conditions and Diseases
eating out
Education
family
food trials
fund raising
gluten-free
Gluten-free diet
health issues
home cooking
ill health
Local hospital
raising awareness
school
special needs parents
Stagecoach
support
Blogs I love to follow
7 years to diagnosis
7 years to diagnosis
Searching for an answer
Their culture of bullying & abuse ruins lives & destroys livelihoods! This national organisation has an annual income in excess of £80m yet provides NO frontline services. The public are duped into believing their donations go to local services. They don't! Those in positions to effect change must listen. MIND must be held to account. WEBSITE MANAGED BY @BullyingatMIND
| 22,874 |
After an election campaign filled with violence and crackdowns on opposition media, it looks like we have a different result from the June election…
BBC – “Turkey election: Ruling AKP ‘heads for majority'”:
Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) looks likely to claim a majority in a critical parliamentary election, results indicate.
With 95% of all votes counted, state-run Anadolu Agency said the party was on 49.5%, with the main opposition CHP on 25.3%.
The pro-Kurdish HDP and nationalist MHP appear likely to cross the 10% threshold needed to claim seats.
Current projections indicate the ruling party will gain substantially more than the 276 seats needed to gain a majority.
However, projections show it will fall just short of the amount of seats needed to call a referendum on changing the constitution and increasing the powers of the president, AKP founder Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Bill Humphrey is the primary host of WVUD's Arsenal For Democracy talk radio show and a local elected official. Follow him @BillHumphreyMA on twitter.
View all posts by Bill Humphrey →
Tagged AK Party, democracy, HD Party, November 2015 Turkish elections, press freedom, Turkey.
« AFD Micron #46
Comments are closed
Related
New Turkey elections might be AKP’s worst option
Turkey will remain without elected government into October
Archives Select Month December 2022 (1) November 2022 (4) October 2022 (5) September 2022 (4) August 2022 (4) July 2022 (5) June 2022 (4) May 2022 (4) April 2022 (4) March 2022 (4) February 2022 (5) January 2022 (5) December 2021 (4) November 2021 (3) October 2021 (5) September 2021 (4) August 2021 (5) July 2021 (5) June 2021 (7) May 2021 (9) April 2021 (8) March 2021 (8) February 2021 (7) January 2021 (8) December 2020 (5) November 2020 (6) October 2020 (4) September 2020 (6) August 2020 (3) July 2020 (5) June 2020 (5) May 2020 (4) April 2020 (3) March 2020 (5) February 2020 (3) January 2020 (4) December 2019 (4) November 2019 (2) August 2019 (4) July 2019 (5) June 2019 (3) May 2019 (4) April 2019 (5) March 2019 (3) February 2019 (3) January 2019 (4) December 2018 (3) November 2018 (4) October 2018 (5) September 2018 (4) August 2018 (4) July 2018 (5) June 2018 (4) May 2018 (5) April 2018 (4) March 2018 (4) February 2018 (4) January 2018 (4) December 2017 (3) November 2017 (4) October 2017 (5) September 2017 (4) August 2017 (5) July 2017 (4) June 2017 (5) May 2017 (8) April 2017 (5) March 2017 (11) February 2017 (5) January 2017 (5) December 2016 (7) November 2016 (10) October 2016 (8) September 2016 (3) April 2016 (1) March 2016 (1) February 2016 (2) January 2016 (8) December 2015 (27) November 2015 (36) October 2015 (63) September 2015 (53) August 2015 (70) July 2015 (66) June 2015 (43) May 2015 (33) April 2015 (35) March 2015 (35) February 2015 (38) January 2015 (45) December 2014 (46) November 2014 (60) October 2014 (58) September 2014 (49) August 2014 (42) July 2014 (37) June 2014 (44) May 2014 (41) April 2014 (31) March 2014 (31) February 2014 (34) January 2014 (34) December 2013 (42) November 2013 (9) October 2013 (6) September 2013 (12) August 2013 (12) July 2013 (8) June 2013 (7) May 2013 (3) April 2013 (8) March 2013 (4) February 2013 (5) January 2013 (7) December 2012 (2) August 2012 (1) July 2012 (1) May 2012 (1) March 2012 (2) February 2012 (1) January 2012 (1) December 2011 (1) November 2011 (1) October 2011 (1) June 2011 (1) January 2011 (2) December 2010 (1) November 2010 (5) October 2010 (4) September 2010 (2) August 2010 (3) July 2010 (5) June 2010 (15) May 2010 (5) April 2010 (8) March 2010 (1) February 2010 (6) January 2010 (5) December 2009 (7) November 2009 (3) October 2009 (2) September 2009 (2) July 2009 (2) June 2009 (3) May 2009 (1) April 2009 (4) March 2009 (3)
Copyright 2013-2021 Arsenal for Democracy / Bill Humphrey. Not paid for or authorized by any campaign committee.
| 4,136 |
I have a client that is enthusiastic by nature. A new travel mug inspires a happy dance from him. Lucky for his team, this translates to his enthusiasm about the negotiation mistakes his staff makes. Yes, that was not a mistake, their mistakes. He is also happy about their successes… the only thing that makes […]
Negotiation Tools
Ask The Negotiator
Castle Negotiations Round Table
Are you a CEO or Founder? We offer 6 Round Tables a year for leaders that are always challenging themselves and their teams to improve their negotiation systems and outcomes. At the round table, a negotiation consultant will present current negotiation trends and challenges from the top eschelon of negotiation thought leaders. This is also an opportunity to meet other leaders, discuss your current negotiation challenges and learn how Castle Negotiation Consulting Company helps successful professionals and companies become even more successful at obtaining the best agreements possible To receive the Round Table schedule, sign up here.
| 1,091 |
Sooo, after a little inspiration from Mr Tim Ferris, I thought it was an idea to give a weekly overview as to what bio hacks, supplements and optimisation ideas I’m playing with, cooking, listening to, experimenting and using. I’ll give a summary as to what are my results, thoughts, tips and what the experts are saying. If you’ve got any feedback on anything I’ve described, or ideas of something to try, please drop me a message!
What am I reading?
A Complaint Free World by: The 21-day challenge that will change your life by Will Bowen
Change your life you say? In 21 days no less? Quite a bold statement, as well as one that has been reeled off more than a few times by would be..life changers. So, the basic premis here is to wear a band on your wrist for 21 straight days without complaining. Each time a complaint comes out, switch wrists and reset the 21 days. Why 21 days you may ask. Well apparently it takes 21 days to change a behaviour..
This book is actually quite an insight. I didn’t think I was much of a complainer, well, 12 wrist swaps in the first 2 hours put pay to that thought. This is an easy book to read in both it’s language and size, and really has been quite a learning curve for me! It without doubt develops insight and makes you question your atomatic conditioned responses. Bowen does come from a religious background (which is fine of course!) and although it can sometimes seems a little preachy, its really a good read and worth a butchers. This especially in light of you can get it for less than half the price of its postage on Amazon!
What am I taking?
L – theanine
L – theanine is an amino acid naturally found in tea but also primarily found in plant and fungal species. Nootropics, as most will know, are taken for memory, clarity, creativity and focus purposes. I was excited however about L – theanine as. in terms of brain-hacks, it has been seen to give something a little different from the others.
L-theanine has been shown in studies to increase alpha brain waves on an EEG . The studies show supplemental L-theanine’s effect on the brain. The brain waves have been seen to actually get smoothed out but not flatten out, (meaning a calmer but still fully functioning state of mind). There are also credible links to it helping with depression and supporting the liver whilst also being a powerful antidote to the effects of alcohol! L-theanine has further been shown to mitigate negative effects from caffeine, including damaged sleep quality and anxiety, while boosting the positive effects such as the mind-energizing, fat-burning features of caffeine.
My experiences were good! It has defiantly helped to focus but but not feel to stimulated.I’ve tried it this week mainly in the late afternoon with a coffee and replaced the green coffee extract I was previously experimenting with. I’ve really seen it calm me down noticeably whilst also staying productive. It’s defiantly worth a look and is a pretty inexpensive supplement to boot!
What am I using?
Now this will blow no minds as it’s hardly a piece of cutting edge technology, but what is pretty ‘cutting edge’ (well, relatively) is the primal approach to increasing aerobic capacity through slowing down the pace. I first read about this in John Douillard’s book; Mind, Body, & Sport. You can buy this on Amazon for literally pennies and it really is a great read regarding breathing, Indian medicine’s approach to health and development; and John’s own research into discovering the famed athlete’s ‘zone’. Anyway’s, Marc Sisson, the big dog from the paleo/primal movement echoes Douillard’s thinking but takes it on a notch in his incredible book; Primal Endurance.
The technique to help slowing down aerobic activity most is to use your nose to breath through whilst, for example, running. Sisson advocates further that the heart rate needs to be monitored using Dr Maffetone’s 180 method minus your age, (as opposed to the more universally recognized 220 minus your age). Note – you can subtract 10 if recovering from serious illness and/or aliment or subtract 5 for recent injury or regression in training. Make no adjustments if training consistently (4x/week) for two years or add 5 if you’ve successfully trained consistently for two or over years and/or had success in competition.
Having started monitoring my heart rate the last week, (even though I’ve been nose breathing whilst running for around the last 6 months), the 145 – 50 I’d set was blooming difficult to maintain! Think stopping on hills and completely letting go of ego when pretty much any and every other runner cruises by.
So, the big one is of course why?! Well, nutshell terms are that when training outside of this aerobic max, you are serving no purpose to the aerobic system and causing stress. This is whilst also not benefiting the anaerobic system, as you can’t maintain an anaerobic state for those lengths of time. Essentially as you improve you will be able to increase output whilst maintaining lower heart rate. Research is also suggesting that the better trained the aerobic system, the less you’ll need to enter the anaerobic state due to lower heart rate. This has clear positive crossovers for combat sports for example. Im pushing on with this, even though I have hard Thai Boxing sessions currently due to an upcoming fight. Sisson is the man, so we’ll see what we see. Fingers crossed for results!
| 5,424 |
Seeing The night skies with a lot of stars provides a enjoyable feeling that lots of individuals love. The light that hails out of the celebrities is a exceptional source of electricity, and it’s excellent to be in a position to get hold of nature in most of its varieties, particularly in case you may buy a star. Promising To reduce a celebrity is extremely distinctive from having a star, now this will be potential with StarRegister talent kits. Get All-the lighting energy, and advice about a celebrity that you could view from anywhere in the world, whilst representing unique and special moment which is now memorable. There Is a […]
Service a, buy, star
Star registry is a new way to send gifts
If You Would like to surprise your buddy or Child or loved one and would like to ship them exceptional presents, you then should buy a star. This really is one of the very best strategies to surprise your dear one. You just need to enroll and get the most exceptional and thoughtful gifts for anniversary, birthday or wedding, Christmas, etc.. You can send anybody this type of gift. This is one of the best presents currently. You are able to send a present to a friend or member of the family using share or email directly to their Facebook page. You will also get the opportunity to win a […]
May 25
If your case should help build your small business, apply for a small business loan.
Nowadays it is Rather difficult to get loans to fix economic situations of one’s business or company, if you are some of these people who’re desperate how to solve this circumstance? , then it is essential you know more Easy business capital loans on the subject of this website and the services they provide. Throughout the Knowledge that each one of those loan pros that 75capital has open for you, you have to pick from the financial categories which are most appropriate for your situation, input, and subscribe to this website, and also you also can choose the specialist you require! These Pros are reluctant to undertake all the procedures, […]
Service a, Apply, business, for, loan, small
May 05
What are the advantages of beer dispensers at homes?
Putting beer machine (machine a biere) machine a biere at your house can be quite a great thing you are missing out on till day. When you beverage alcohol a lot, then putting the kegerator proper inside of your living room is definitely the smartest thing you will do in order to on your own. There are numerous benefits of maintaining a quality kegerator at your house .. When you are partial to tossing parties at your home that include alcohol parties, then you are absent the enjoyment which you could derive through the kegerator set up. In case you are manager of a small company cafe in neighborhood market, […]
| 2,825 |
After many hours working in the garden this Spring I finally decided that I wanted to be that one guy that grows his own veg in the back garden. Taking inspiration from the soft voice of Monty Don on the BBC’s Gardener’s World and those perfectly maintained designer looking veg patches on Instagram this winter I thought yep that’s what I’m going to do. I BE VEG MAN NOW.
So in the tail end of winter I brought out the spade and broke ground. When I say broke ground I really mean I broke myself, digging semi frozen ground is not as easy as I thought it would be. There I was thinking that all soil was loose fluffy stuff not the mega compacted devil soil which has never been touched by us or the previous owners of this house or the for what I have now determined the whole human history! But there is good news to come out of all this hardship, my sore back and after copious amount of swearing that would make even a gathering sailors blush, it was complete. Now what?
Naturally slacking off for a bit because it was cold outside and I’m a weak willed man I left the garden to its own devices. But then, as if I could not see it coming, Spring rapidly sprung around the corner it was time for action. From my extensive research and training that consisted of a few evening on the internet I knew it was time to go seed hunting. I merrily went off and grabbed a few seeds ranging from carrots and peas to two onion sets. We’ll be focusing on the onions from now onwards. I planted meticulously what I though was the right amount but I was still left with half a packet still remaining. The choices that came next was what ultimately lead to my ascension to onion royalty.
So yeah, I just planted all of them, just because they were there what else was I going to do with them? Surly not all of them would grow and some would die because this was the first time that I have ever grown onions… Yeah turned out that every single one has grown even the odd looking squished one which I planted purely out of mercy rather than ending its opportunity on the compost heap. There are uncountable amounts of thick leaves flopping all over the place and massive bulbous red and white onions bursting from the ground, it looks like a bloody jungle out there! Where is my machete to cut through the undergrowth, I wonder if there is some long lost tribe of people in here? How much will my eyes hurt then I cut these onions?
As I’m typing this up now in a midsummer heatwave looking over my onion horde in the warm yellow evening sun cold pint in hand I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride of what I have managed to achieve.
Other Apps
Comments
Popular posts from this blog
It is cold!
- January 31, 2022
Well it is that time of year again, the skies darken early, nobody can be bothered to go outside, the weather forecast makes you wonder why we did not learn to hibernate and hide away. For these who are not from the fine isles of Great Britain there is one thing that you will work out very quickly on your first visit, everybody talks about the weather. This is the way we break up the awkward silence and start with a bit of small talk. What is the only thing that everybody is experiencing at the same time and can be used as a sure fire way to start a conversation, well it is the current weather. During winter there is no exception to this, its cold wet and horrible what better conversation starter do you need? In one normal average day, I had a chain of people telling me how cold it is outside from the postman and the checkout operator in the petrol station to the receptionist at work and my colleagues. All that everybody mentioned was how cold it is! My other half has a habit of
Read more
- August 13, 2021
I guess this all stems from fashion, something which I know nothing at all about so probably should have no say about this topic but a rant must be allowed to vent in to the wild. I just can’t understand why somebody would wear unnecessary tight trousers almost painted on to your skin and even more so, as I will explain below, if you’re a bloke! Could it be something as simple as a mistake when washing them causing them to shrink? That must be it, setting the washing machine too hot easy mistake to make I guess, but why still wear them? The only logical reason I can think of would be because it’s the only pair of trousers he has either because of finances or the rest are in the wash (let’s hope that the temperature is set correctly this time) and he is heading off to buy a new pair from the shops. I guess it is better than walking around without them I guess… I think the police would be happier not getting reports of a inadequately dressed individual causing a scene every five minute
Read more
- July 17, 2021
I don’t know how many time I have seen this and I’m sorry if this turns in to more of a rant but this gets on my nerves so much, if you can’t park with in the bloody lines then you should not be bloody driving! It seems no matter where I go I will be plagued by those who never developed the primitive skills as a young child, colouring in between the lines. Now a child I could excuse, as they are only a small innocent proto-human without the fine dexterity commanding only a crayon with no risk what so ever to anybody other than the mild peril of treading on a dropped crayon on the floor and its accompanied clean up! But driving a car this is something you do require the skill of keeping it in-between the lines, you are now driving a massive heavy lump of metal which can go at least 70 miles per hour which requires training to use and drive legally. It’s pretty much night and day Now to my latest run in with those who didn’t manage to pick up the foundations from their youth of par
| 5,911 |
We are still in the wake of the Lunar Eclipse from Wed, and now in the midst of a T-square with Saturn, Jupiter & Venus. Wow. This initiates upheaval and unleashes conflicting energies, which can easily leave you feeling disorientated as reference points are shifting and you may not be sure which way to go.
Today Jupiter (expansion) opposes Venus (love/relationships/$$), which usually encourages indulgence and reaching for what feels good (and then wanting more). However, Saturn turns Retrograde today – squaring BOTH Jupiter and Venus. Ouch!!
Saturn in a square (hard aspect = tension/conflict) is a harsh reality check, which often appears as obstacles, limitations, obligations or responsibilities that feel heavy or discouraging.
But you can decide to take responsibility and handle whatever comes up that’s not working. When Saturn is squaring Jupiter, it usually has to do with where you are over-extended – or avoiding making a decision about something that’s calling for your attention. Jupiter wants to expand and Saturn wants to stay safe and secure.
Saturn squaring Venus usually brings up $$ or relationship issues. With $$, you may have financial restrictions or you may owe $$. Something needs to be changed or handled, so just do it – for your Highest Good – and to relieve the pressure.
In relationships, this is often a make it or break it time, when you decide to either commit at a deeper level or leave a relationship. Things you’ve been tolerating or deciding not to deal with are now front and center in your consciousness – and it’s time to make a decision.
Venus is also the way you value yourself and with a Saturn square, you may feel unappreciated or you may realize that you are judging and devaluing yourself. This calls for a course correction – and you can use this to take responsibility for choosing and creating self-love and appreciation. Then watch how your external world mirrors your efforts.
Saturn Retrograde is a good time to review the structures in your life and course correct anything that is non-working or less than satisfying for you. Set your intention to create a life that nurtures and nourishes you – and then take actions to correct that which is out of alignment.
In mid-April, Mars (action/will) will be going Retrograde until July, with another Mercury Retrograde right behind that — and it won’t be a good time to start new projects for a while, so I encourage you to take action now to begin anything new.
On Wed, Mercury (communication/mind) squares Pluto (power) so watch for arguments, conflicting viewpoints that won’t budge, or power struggles. Choose flexibility, compassion and a detached position when dealing with charged interactions. Or just decide not to get riled up about anything, no matter what :))
Your experience of all that happens in our ever-changing world is largely determined by your perspective, whether uplifting and “make it happen” or glass half-empty, powerless (wah-wah).
Sunday is Easter, or Resurrection Day = a day of rebirth with reverence. During this sacred time, remember – you always have a choice, so choose wisely and lovingly, be responsible, and get help if you need it!
**** We still have major Moon Void of Course periods this week***, which can derail intended outcomes and productivity – and are optimal times to access your creativity, spiritual pursuits, routines or leisure activities. Be aware and pay attention.
This is a good time to get your Perfect Timing Guide for the annual price of $111.00 for 12 months.
Related Posts
Leave a Comment:
E-Mail *
All fields with “*” are required
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Δ
Leave a Comment:
E-Mail *
All fields with “*” are required
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Δ
Read Next
New Moon in Aries, Pre-Retrograde - April '16
We are approaching the New Moon in Aries on April 7th, with the Ruler of Aries (Mars, the warrior, maverick, pioneer) preparing to turn Retrograde on April 17th until July 29th. Now is the time to take action toward any new projects you want to begin because once Mars goes Rx (Retrograde), it's going to be sloooowww going. Mars is the ...
Archives Select Month November 2022 October 2022 September 2022 August 2022 July 2022 June 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 March 2009 December 2008 November 2008
| 6,412 |
Just build a wall. What could be simpler? There's is a lot more to building a wall than you might think. Today I want to try and clarify a wall building concept that took me a long time to figure out and was really quite frustrating. It boiled down to which style of wall building should you do:
Build your wall on the floor of your basement and then "lift it into place"
Build your wall "in place", nail each board as you go (a.k.a. "stick-by-stick" )
Build a wall, then lift it into place
How do you build a wall? Not like this, if you're doing it yourself.
Let's talk about option "A" first, build a wall on the the floor and then lift it into place. Several of basement and construction books have photos of two people working together, building the wall on the floor of the room they are finishing and then lifting it into place.
From a visual standpoint this is the easier method to understand. This was the first method that I used. My "one small wall" was going to be about 8 feet long and I had plenty of room on the ground to build it.
It was a little tricky using this method solo because you need to hold the wood straight as you start to screw them together. (Yes, I recommend starting with screws because it's easier to back out of a mistake. And yes… you will make a lot of mistakes at first.
| 1,310 |
I had been dabbling with the idea of alternative seating for years, and once even bought some exercise balls for my second grade classroom, but that didn't end well when I went on maternity leave and the balls turned into play equipment rather than seating equipment.
This year, with my move to a new school and a new grade level, first, I decided was THE year. And I will never go back.
Alternative seating, also known as flexible seating (if there is a difference, please educate me, but until then I'm going to continue acting like I know what I'm talking about), has transformed my classroom in a way I couldn't have imagined. It has lowered stress and anxiety levels, heightened focus levels, and has allowed me to personalize the learning that goes on in my classroom.
Here is a panoramic view of my classroom in all of it's flexible glory!
Here is how our journey unfolded, in 3 steps!
Provided to me at my school were a lot of tables and chairs, so I started by adjusting the use of what I already had by removing legs from a few tables for floor seating, raising a few tables to standing height, and leaving a few tables at chair height. Each step that I will be outlining involved a lot of class meetings and discussions about how to monitor what your body needs, and that everyone's body needs something different, and this one was no exception. After a couple of weeks, when everyone had had the opportunity to try out the different tables, most had settled into an understanding of what was best for them.
(Notice the stacks of chairs in the back of the room? Yeah, we don't use them anymore.)
The next step in our journey was to acquire some new seating options. This can be an expensive step in an alternative seating journey, but thanks to the age of the internet, I did it with very little out of my own pockets. The only thing I bought myself was a set of 5 sturdy laundry baskets. They were $7 each at Walmart, and I was anxious to get started, so I went for it! I don't often shop at Walmart, but when I do, it's for cheap laundry baskets and school supplies.
Next on my list of desired seating options were wobble stools, balance cushions, and bouncy bands. Those were the more expensive pieces, just one stool is over $60. Definitely above my budget... Donor's Choose to the rescue! If you have not used this website yet, you have been missing out. I had 8 Kore Wobble Stools, 5 balance cushions, and 5 Bouncy Bands funded in less than a week's time! When I posted my project on Donor's Choose there was a matching code where every donation up to $100 was matched by Donor's Choose, and they do matching codes often if you keep your eyes and ears open. I got permission from my principal to send a letter home to the families of my students, posted a link to my friends and family on Facebook, and boom! It was fully funded in under a week. (A lot of people have luck with anonymous donors as well.) About a week later, the new seating choices were delivered to my classroom. =)
Now, if you don't have immediate luck on Donor's Choose, and haven't won the lottery, there are some cheaper options out there. Bathmats and pillows are something I've seen used, but I prefer hard plastics over cloth because of a debilitating fear of lice. I've heard good things about Scoop Rocker chairs, as seen here (http://www.overstock.com/Sports-Toys/American-Plastic-Toys-Scoop-Rocker-Pack-of-6/10458964/product.html).
This step addresses the biggest question I get about flexible seating; How do you introduce this concept and the different seating options to your students? Don't they fight over the stuff?
I acquainted my students with one thing at a time. And each introduction was sandwiched with class discussions. I like to call this routine the "Expectation Sandwich". First, we circle up and talk about what is about to happen. What are the expectations? How will we appropriately use this space or this tool? Then, everyone gets a chance to try that particular seating option out properly. Finally, we have another circle discussion about how that particular seating choice is helpful, who it is helpful for, and how we know it is helping.
In the expectation sandwich discussions, a big piece of the conversation (multiple times a day in the beginning) is that everyone is different, and everybody's body needs something different. Some of us feel just fine working in chairs at tables, some of our bodies prefer to lay on the floor with clipboards. Some of us like to stand up to help us focus, some of us like to sit on the floor. Some of us like to wiggle and move as we work, some of us like to be cozy and tucked into in a small space. I even had a mom come tell me after school one day that her daughter told her about our new alternative seating options, "I don't use the wiggle stools much because my body doesn't really need it as much as some of my friends." Perfection.
In the beginning, yes, there may be a certain level of excitement due to the novelty. But if you can be very methodical in acquainting the children with the seating choices, and very patient in reminding them about how to choose their spots, the novelty will wear off, and it just becomes the regular day-to-day routine. Kids settle into the areas and options that they prefer, and there is now, in my classroom, absolutely zero conflict or disruption caused by flexible seating.
The change that alternative seating has made in my classroom has been invaluable. My students have learned how to self-regulate and listen to their bodies. They have been given the gift of choice, the choice to do what is best for them. They are more focused, more centered, and more productive.
This is the perfect time to start thinking about how you can make shifts in your own classroom for next year, so go for it! Remember - Adjust, Acquire, Acquaint. And how can I forget my #1 most important rule/motto with the kids about alternative seating - "They are tools, not toys!"
Please feel free to hammer me with questions!
Posted by Brittany at 8:49 PM
31 comments:
Unknown May 10, 2016 at 8:01 AM
I have used exercise balls with my 1st graders, but found them to be a big distraction (and, when they are all bouncing, I found it to make me “sea sick” looking out over the class). I have also purchased wiggle seats. I feel that we have had a lot more success with these, as they are not such a distraction from our lessons.
This year I had a donation of a standing desk…this has a swinging bar down by the feet, that allows the child to stand and work while rocking his foot on the bar, swinging it. There is also a stool that he could use to sit on at this desk, but he has never used it. What a great idea for those kids that like to stand. I only wish that they weren’t such an expensive option!
Thank you for sharing all of your thoughts about your classroom. I can see how this could take some time to set up, but in the end I see that it would be worth it. :)
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 7:58 PM
That desk sounds so cool! I've recently seen pedal contraptions that can go under a desk or table, they look super cool too. It is so so worth the energy it takes to get the kids acquainted with the seating choices. And I forgot to mention how much I love to use the wiggle stools too! =)
Delete
Replies
Anonymous May 10, 2016 at 1:39 PM
Love you ideas! I teach first grade and am thinking about alternative seating. How do you handle whole group teaching activities? Do students have a "home base"? If not where do you keep their things? Thanks
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:13 PM
We have a big rug with color squares that the kids come to for whole group. Our whole group lessons are so short, only about 10-15 minutes at 1st grade, that most of them are fine sitting on the carpet for that amount of time. I do have a few that need wiggle spots at the carpet, but the rest of them know that those things are saved for extended independent or group work times. As far as a home base goes, we have these great cubbies where the kids keep their backpacks and all of their folders and books. In the past, I've used bookcases with magazine holders (Ikea has cheap, but thick, cardboard ones that hold up GREAT) to house folders and books. I've also used crates at each table, and kids were assigned to a crate as their home base, but then could take their stuff to wherever they chose to work. I've seen people (especially in the higher elementary grades where kids have more stuff) use sterilite drawers at each table with a similar system... you have a place to store your things, but you can take those things as you need them and move about the room. Does that make sense?
Delete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:15 PM
Oh, and we do all shared supplies! So there are caddies on each table for anyone to use.
Delete
Replies
Aileen Miracle May 10, 2016 at 4:22 PM
Wonderful blog post! I am a music teacher and am thinking about trying this out next year, for when we do centers and group work. I love the idea of laundry baskets (hadn't seen anyone else post about that!) but maybe that wouldn't work past 2nd or 3rd grade....(I teach K-5.) I hadn't thought of asking parents to donate to the Donors Choose project! Love your ideas, will be bookmarking this post to come back to it. Thanks!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:18 PM
My kids also like to sit the laundry baskets up on their sides and sit in them that way, which I think would totally work for 2nd and 3rd grade! Good luck with Donors Choose!
Delete
Replies
Unknown May 10, 2016 at 4:44 PM
I love how accepting of this idea you (some teachers wouldn't be), your school, and students are. I am a high school teacher, but I see that many of the things would be great for them as well. We often think of young kids as needing to move, but my teens need to move just as much and most high school teachers and administrators are NOT understanding of that. Now if I only had a classroom to put alternative seating in - it may be too much to fit on my cart :(
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:19 PM
Arg, yes that would be difficult. I can't imagine fitting my life onto a cart! You must be Super Woman!
Delete
Replies
Julia Wheatley May 10, 2016 at 5:17 PM
I recently just took the flexible seating challenge in my middle school class and will never go back! I too hesitated wondering would it work and if the excitement of choosing your seat would be overwhelming or just a "sit by your friend" situation....To my surprise it's been the exact opposite! I truly believe when you give up the power of assigned seating, you are gaining soooooo much more and able to accomplish way more....More than you even realize at the time! Thanks for sharing this with us!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:20 PM
Yes! It completely eliminates the power struggle, and even my little bitty first graders learn how to self monitor! It's amazing!
Delete
Replies
Unknown May 10, 2016 at 6:07 PM
Thank you for such a wonderful blog post on alternative seating. I have been given the green light to use alternative seating in my classroom next year. I am excited about jumping in with both feet but still working out the minor details in my head. ;) Love how you have taught the students that it is a tool, not a toy. I have bookmarked this post to come back and revisit. :)
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:21 PM
Yay! So exciting! You will NOT regret it.
Delete
Replies
Anonymous May 10, 2016 at 9:24 PM
I did flexible seating for a few years in kindergarten before I moved into a support role. The kids loved it, I loved it, and it just took our classroom community to another level. They knew I trusted them to make good choices. Now that I'm back in the kinder classroom and settled in my new school, I'm excited to get back at it! Thanks for the post, it was the nudge I needed. It'll be interesting to see what people at my school say because it seems pretty traditional. I may end up being the black sheep but I can't conform anymore, I need to do what's best for kids!!
I got some Yoga bands that I plan on cutting and tying around the legs of a few chairs similar to your black ones. What's the purpose of the PVC tube looking thing? To help hold the band up?
ReplyDelete
Replies
Brittany May 11, 2016 at 8:24 PM
Yes! The PVC part of the bouncy bands keeps them up so that they don't get pushed down, thus eliminating the ability to bounce! Let me know how the yoga bands turn out, it sound promising. Rubber against metal legs, tied really tight... seems like it should work fine. And by the way, you are not going to be the black sheep, you are going to be the revolutionary trend setter! I started the bug in my school, and now lots of people are following suit. =)
Delete
Replies
Rachel - PoetPrints.ca May 14, 2016 at 7:53 PM
This is the "HOW TO" post that I have been searching for! Thank you, thank you, thank you. I love your realistic implementing strategies. I'm sending it to my teaching partner, and saving it for my principal!! (We're proposing using this in our shared Grade 3 classrooms next year, and this is EXACTLY what we want to be doing... minus Donor's Choice, that isn't available in Canada!)
ReplyDelete
Replies
wholesale furniture outlet June 6, 2016 at 10:58 PM
material.It's advisable to check some consumer reports before making big purchase.http://www.gardenarteu.com .What will you do in your garden space:how would you like your garden space to function? You can make a list of cetain events that you would occasionally hold in your garden so as to determine the type of furniture that will suit you. the garden furniture company Do you need to hold big birthday parties in your garden or are your outdoor spaces only meant for casual family events, then making a list of the events you will be holding then you can be able to come to a conclusion to what kind of furniture you need. pool outdoor furniture lf the main functions for your garden are to hold big events then you know you need to purchase spacious garden tables, garden chairs and sofa sets.3.Go for easy care:Consider the idea of purchasing easy care garden furniture. Metal, cedar and all weather wicker pieces would not require a lot of repairs and are guaranteed to give you service for years. Plastic products would be advisable for people
ReplyDelete
Replies
wholesale furniture outlet June 6, 2016 at 10:59 PM
living near salt waters such as the coastal regions considering the high chances of metal products to get rust in a short duration. In such cases you have to make sure you choose qunlity plastic that can last for years.http://www.gardenarteu.com.Storage and maintenance:The durability of your garden furniture willaluminum garden furniture be determined by how you maintain and the way you sore them. Consider handling and maintaining your furniture well and storing them well in protected areas such as the store when they are not in use for long. online outdoor furniture This will help maintain the colours of cushions of garden sofa sets and add the duration of use to your plastic chairs as they are away from the sunlight for some time.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Unknown June 13, 2016 at 9:38 AM
Gamers play games sitting for long hours which can cause them body ache, low back-pain,back pain and other backbone problem as well.So they need ergonomic chairs while playing for perfect sitting,comfort,flexibility and health. comfortable chair for gamers
ReplyDelete
Replies
Heidi July 5, 2016 at 5:17 AM
Thanks for all your great ideas and photos. My room is so small. I hope I can make this work for my students. I have noticed a lot of primary grades having great success with alternative seating. I would like to learn what you think about intermediate grades using flexible seating. Do you or your followers have suggestions and thoughts for my 4th graders? Thanks so much!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Heidi July 28, 2016 at 7:51 AM
I also wanted to mention that my partner teacher and I switch for ELA and math as well as for content classes. I would love to have any suggestions for making flexible seating work for this sort of situation. Thanks!
Delete
Replies
Unknown May 31, 2018 at 11:43 PM
Fortune Oriental Holdings Limited (FOH) LLC, is a online furniture in USA and licensed furniture manufacturer that has been registered in both Hong
Kong and mainland China since 2007.foh furnitureFortune Oriental Holdings Limited (FOH) LLCCustom design.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Unknown July 8, 2018 at 1:46 PM
To give you the ultimate solution of sharpening, need the very best sharpener that affords you appropriately. Nonetheless, it's difficult to select the best one from various types and types or sharpener in the marketplace. Here you will get full best chainsaw notion Chainsaw Sharpeners
ReplyDelete
Replies
Lucy November 26, 2018 at 5:27 PM
Just wondering... do you start each new year with "normal" classroom furniture and gradually introduce the alternative seating options? I'm wondering what the beginning of the year looks like for you each year :)
ReplyDelete
Replies
Top info guide April 20, 2019 at 5:51 AM
I have Never seen such a wonderful site like this please how did you do it
ReplyDelete
Replies
TopinfoGuide May 28, 2019 at 9:11 AM
I couldn’t resist commenting. Exceptionally well written! It’s perfect
time to make some plans for the future and it is time to be happy.
I’ve read this post and if I could I wish to suggest you some interesting things or suggestions.
Perhaps you can write next articles referring to this article.
I wish to read more things about it! I have been browsing online more than 4 hours today, yet I never found any interesting article
like yours. It’s pretty worth enough for me.
In my view, if all website owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the web will be a lot more useful than ever before.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Ash Green June 20, 2019 at 9:52 PM
It was really insightful.
Thanks for such a nice content.
BTW if anyone interested more have a look . thanks
ReplyDelete
Replies
Studydriller July 2, 2019 at 11:31 AM
This information you have shared is really enlightening. I'm glad you shared it. I must say you are season with your niche. Thanks for the share and keep up the good work. Nice one.
ReplyDelete
Replies
FaR August 5, 2019 at 1:06 AM
If you are looking for gift delivery in Pakistan? We warmly welcome you to https://www.thewoodvalue.com/ Because we offer you one of the best wooden handmade art & craft decor items to send gifts Pakistan. A variety of Pakistan handicrafts, home decor, office decor, kitchen decor and wall decor are available at our online store. We offer online gift shopping in Pakistan with free delivery. The Wood Value is great way to send wooden handmade gifts as corporate gifts.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Leroy Jones August 19, 2019 at 9:12 AM
ReplyDelete
Replies
News May 7, 2021 at 6:42 AM
Former Manchester United stars, Rio Ferdinand, Owen Hargreaves and Paul Scholes have predicted the winner of the Europa League final to be played between their old club and Spanish side, Villarreal.
The three players all tipped Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side to win the Europa League final.
Manchester United beat AS Roma 8-5 on aggregate to book their place in the final, while Villarreal overcame another Premier League side, Arsenal 2-1 from both legs to reach the final.
The final comes up on May 26 and Ferdinand told BT Sport, “If Manchester United turn up and perform anywhere near their best, they win the game, hands down, probably by a couple of goals.
“They’ve got players in there that have won this competition already as well. Unai Emery has got experience but some of these Man United players on the pitch have been there and done it too.
“Listen, I don’t see it being a huge problem for Manchester United. But it’s a final and the players won’t look at it like that.
“They will know they need to prepare right, focus and get the job done.”
Hargreaves added, “Unai Emery is close to getting the trophy named after him, the amount of times he’s won it.
“It will be a tough game, with Unai’s experience and because Villarreal have a lot of goalscorers in their side.
“But Manchester United are favourites. They’ve got the best squad, the most talented players.
“If the likes of Bruno [Fernandes], [Edinson] Cavani and [Paul] Pogba turn up they should get the job done.”
Scholes said: “I agree with Owen. I haven’t seen a lot of Villarreal and they do have goals in their teams. It’s hard to go against Unai Emery with his record in the competition but United have hit some real form at the right time.
“I expect them to win it with the squad they’ve got.”
ReplyDelete
Replies
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)
July (1)
June (1)
February (1)
May (3)
GoNoodle Day!
A Journey into Alternative Seating
March (2)
February (6)
January (1)
October (1)
July (8)
I just learned how to print a PDF poster-sized. You guys. This is life changing. Can you imagine the possibilities?! Okay, so the first ...
A Journey into Alternative Seating
Ready? Set? Go! I had been dabbling with the idea of alternative seating for years, and once even bought some exercise balls ...
Building Relationships with Morning Meetings
The best thing that has happened to me in my career so far has been Responsive Classroom. I was highly skeptical about its effectiveness...
Student-Generated Class Rules
I love having my students create their own class rules. It is so much more meaningful than arbitrary rules that come from the teacher. ...
Hopes and Dreams - A new school year MUST!
One of my favorite beginning of the year activities is having my students declare what their biggest Hopes and Dreams for the school yea...
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, and affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to ...
GoNoodle Day!
It is very bittersweet to be leaving the classroom at the end of this week for the foreseeable future, as I enter the world of coaching. ...
First Day of School, Part 2: Routines and Procedures
If you missed Part 1: Arrival, make sure to check it out! If you have taught before, you know very well that the first few weeks of sch...
I'm so excited! And I just can't hide it!
Follow my blog with Bloglovin I am so excited about my fabulous new blog design! I can't stop looking at it. Lindsey Paull, you ar...
Oh boy do I have some fun end of the year activities to share with you. First, an iPad/coloring/writing activity for the books. This one ...
| 23,728 |
Create a timetable that allows you to cover all subjects in anorganised manner rather than jumping from one to the other orprocrastinating about what to do. Make sure to timetable breaks forno more than 20 minutes, every 2 hours. Timetable in all yourcommitments to sport, dance etc so you can manage the time you have left. Put your timetable on the wall so you can always see it.
Get your room in order and limit distractions
Limit your distractions by making sure your room and desk are clean and organised. An organised room = an organised mind. Remove your Facebook, iPad, phone or any other devices that will distract you from revision. Find a quiet space and get to work.
i) Sleep: A good night’s sleep (7-9 hours at least) does wonders for your concentration and memory recall.
ii) Eat: Eat healthy foods and keep junk food to a minimum when the big exams are coming up.
iii) Dink: Plenty of water.
iv) Exercise: Timetable regular exercise to boost your energy levels and minimise stress.
Practice, practice and more practice is the key to success. Use your flash cards, text books, past exams, tutoring sheets or even ask your parents to quiz you, in order to test your skills.
Take a walk or watch your favourite TV show as a reward for sticking to your study timetable, or reaching a personal best.
Ask for help
If you get stuck on a topic or section or even on how to get started, ask someone (parent, tutor or teacher) for help. Believe in yourself If you’ve put in the work you will reap the rewards. The power of “positive thought” really is one of the keys to success, not just in exams but in all aspects of life. Being prepared come test time decreases your nerves and will allow you to perform at your best.
| 1,779 |
If you want to have nature at your fingertips and at the same time enjoy the comfort of the terrace, you need a glass conservatory. Thanks to the different sizes and styles, our shelters and pergolas are made to measure and designed for the needs of each of you. Whether the foundation will be a steel structure or the pergola will be covered with glass on wooden beams. We make shelters for you personally and turn your outdoor space into a place full of well-being.
Glass sheds and glass roof
Create a perfect view of the night sky and stay in close contact with the surroundings. Safe protected by glass from the rain. The glass sheds and the roof of the terrace will create a sun-drenched airspace. Tailored for you.
Show more
Create the perfect roof over the entrance to the building and stay protected from the rain.
Show more
Winter gardens and glass terraces
A light-filled air space where warm air rises and ventilates even in the greatest heat. On the other hand, the winter garden will protect and warm you from the weather, even in locations with increased snow, from stronger winds.
| 1,129 |
Moove, an African mobility fintech company has extended its operations in Nairobi, Kenya to expand its vehicle and product offerings to customers.
The vehicle financing company collaborated with Uber, Lori and Sendy on the Kenya launch making it the first city in East Africa and sixth in the continent.
Uber will enable delivery drivers to purchase motorcycles for UberConnect, UberEats deliveries and UberBoda trips while Lori System has enabled Moove to expand its Logistics vehicle offering with Kenyan fulfillment and last-mile logistics company Sendy.
Ladi Delano, Co-Founder and CEO of Moove while commenting on the expansion, noted that the country has a space for the establishment to thrive.
“Kenya already has a thriving mobility and entrepreneurial industry for us to tap into and roll out our financing solutions, so we’re very excited to be launching into Nairobi, our sixth market in 18 months. As one of the biggest economies across Africa, our move into Kenya serves as a gateway to other East African markets. We are excited to continue our expansion, having achieved over 50 percent plus Month on
Month (MoM) growth since launch,” Delano said.
He noted that following the launch of Mooves first two-wheeler products, Moove Xpress, in Lagos, Moove is expanding the new vehicle class to East Africa. As a result of the partnership with Uber, drivers in Nairobi will have access to Moove Xpress bikes for UberConnect (peer to peer delivery), UberBoda trips and UberEats food deliveries. Drivers will be empowered by Moove’s vehicle financing solution, which gives them the flexibility to increase their earnings and productivity.
Read also: ‘Nigeria has six years before electric cars dampen oil demand’
According to him, the two-wheeler hailing market in Sub-Saharan Africa which is currently estimated at $80 billion lacks access to new vehicles as well as regulation for both drivers and riders, and Moove is growing its reach in East Africa to increase asset ownership of brand new motorbikes and ensuring regulatory compliance in the sector.
“The team and I are proud to be bringing financial inclusion to mobility entrepreneurs in Nairobi, Kenya. We’re offering flexible employment through revenue-based financing, thus empowering drivers and driving growth in Africa’s mobility industry, underlined by our commitment to ensure that 50% of our customers are female. The Uber, Sendy and Lori System partnerships will also allow us to enter the market with a substantial range of products and services for mobility entrepreneurs to take advantage of by moving people, goods and services,” Tayo Oyegunle, COO of Moove said.
The CEO states that, Moove recently received the IFC Corporate Award, as one of the top 20 most impactful and transformational companies in
their portfolio that is applying an innovative and scalable solution
towards solving a continent-wide problem
Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
You might also like More from author
Five things to know to start your Wednesday
Kogi, China partner on $60m smart security architecture
Lagos unveils N255m grants for NGOs to drive SDGs
Prev Next
Get the best of world News delivered to your inbox daily
“I am seriously committed to the grooming of the next generation of women entrepreneurs…
Nov 30, 2022
“Social Media has encouraged many young women to become entrepreneurs”
Nov 30, 2022
Driving professional competence with integrity
Nov 30, 2022
A resourceful professional creating value in the insurance industry
Nov 30, 2022
Pension assets hit N14.6trn as 84,000 micro-pensioners enrolled
Nov 30, 2022
Business Day, established in 2001, is a daily business newspaper based in Lagos. It is the only Nigerian newspaper with a bureau in Accra, Ghana. It has both daily and Sunday titles. It circulates in Nigeria and Ghana
| 3,980 |
Herald photo by Ian Martens Shamus Neeson, a radio host with B93.3 FM, is scheduled to give one of his kidneys next month to an old friend of his in need of organ donation. @IMartensHerald
Hunter preparing for next session in late November
Link Pathway terms voted down by Lethbridge County
World Series goes to Houston; next stop is MLB offseason
The nuances of collaborative and group storytelling
Raptors looking to build off of the 2021-22 season
Odd-berta: National coverage follows unveiling of Cheeto statue in Wheatland County
Southern Alberta Newspapers
A local radio host hoping to provide a life-saving kidney donation to a stranger discovered how small the world can be when that stranger turned out to be an old friend.
Shamus Neeson is the midday announcer for B93.3 FM in Lethbridge. Two years ago, he started the journey to become an organ donor after a friend of a friend shared their eight-year-long search of a kidney on Facebook.
“She was going through dialysis three nights a week, and she was convinced she would never get one,” Neeson said. “She had tried and tried, but never matched up with anyone, and was convinced she was going to die. This was her last effort to try and find someone who could match with her.”
Neeson said the story listed the woman’s blood type along with the plea for help. As it happened, Neeson shared a blood type with the woman.
Neeson said he reached out to Canadian Blood Services and began the testing process to see if he was an eligible match.
“I went through a ton of testing,” he said, “So much, in fact, that I thought I was going to develop mutant powers with the radiation, and all that jazz.”
Through testing, Neeson’s kidneys were deemed high functioning, making him eligible for donation.
The next step would be determining if his kidney was a compatible match through the Kidney Paired Donation program. It was at this time the woman was told Neeson was trying to donate his kidney to her.
“She was over the moon,” he said. “She was super excited.”
It turned out that the two were a compatible match
In November 2015, Neeson received a call stating his blood pressure was too high for donation. He could either give up coffee or lose some weight.
“I told them if I stopped drinking coffee, people would die,” Neeson joked. “So I lost the weight.”
It was during this waiting stage that Neeson learned the woman would no longer need his kidney.
A man who passed away in a car accident had signed his organ donor card and was a match, meaning Neeson’s kidney would no longer be needed.
“Basically, that one night, she got a kidney, and the gentleman in the next bed going through dialysis as well got the other kidney,” Neeson said.
While the news was good for all involved, Neeson found himself in limbo with no donor waiting for his kidney. He was placed in the anonymous donor program until a match could be found.
“It meant I was still good to go,” he said. “I wouldn’t know who I was donating to, but I’m here to save someone’s life.”
He put the word out that he was looking for someone to donate to, and learned again on social media of the spouse of a friend in need of organ donation.
That person turned out to be an old friend from high school.
And through the screening process, it was determined the two men were a match. Their surgery date is set for Feb.8 in Calgary.
“This is definitely awesome,” Neeson said. “It’s such a small world. We’ve hung out a fair bit ever since that first conversation.”
Neeson admitted he is very nervous about the upcoming surgery. He said he has been asked about his children, and if he has considered the fact one of them may need a kidney one day.
He said there are two factors to consider. The first is that the pre centage of one of his children needing a kidney donation is very low. There is also no guarantee that if they did need one, that he would be a match for them.
Neeson say he hopes his story will encourage more people to at least look into organ donation, as there is a great need in the country.
“You don’t have to commit to anything,” he said. “But look into it. See how you can help somebody.”
According to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, there are more than 4,600 Canadians awaiting organ transplant. Nearly 80 per cent of those on the transplant list are waiting for a kidney.
| 4,489 |
Here are answers to our most commonly asked questions. If you cannot find an answer here, send us an email/contact us:
To get started, you must first click the “REGISTER” button at the top right corner, or click “Premium Services” from the toolbar along the top if you are purchasing bulk services such as Followers, Likes, Views and Comments. You are then required to Log into and Register in our BuyRealFollows Members Area. To do this you simply enter your Instagram Username, Email address, and create a password. Then click on the “Create Account” button. Shortly after you will be sent a verification email to your email address. Simply open and verify the email. You may choose our Free Plans which allow you to activate every 12 hours, or our Paid Plans that require you to simply set it up once and you are done. Please Note: We do not obtain your login information or have ANY access to your Instagram account. You are NOT required to provide any password you use for your Instagram account. You ARE required to keep your account Public in order to use our services though.
Is Buyrealfollows.com safe to use?
Of Course! We are a safe and trusted service client all over the world, and growing. Your privacy and security is our #1 priority, which is why we have developed very strong coding and safe guarded the website using 256-bit encryption. We can’t say the same for other websites. It is very important you purchase these services from a reputable provider. We have been providing these services since 2018 and we are experts in the Industry. Remember, many times you get what you paid for, so if you see services that are so cheap you are likely going to get something that isn’t safe for your profile. We DO NOT require your Instagram Password, and do not have any access to your Instagram account.
ABSOLUTELY NOT! When you sign up for our service we do not ask for your Instagram, YouTube, Spotify password, or require any of your login information. We simply need your username to identify where to send the services to. Nothing more! We DO NOT have any control over your account. We CANNOT make your account Follow, Like or Comment on any other profiles.
When you purchase our monthly subscription plans you will be automatically billed on the same day of each month. Hence, charges happen automatically. If at some point you no longer need your BuyRealFollows subscription, you can cancel it by logging into our Members Area and clicking on the Settings section where you will be able to cancel your payment. If you are having any difficulties simply send us a quick email and we can also complete your request.
When will I receive my order?
All orders will be delivered within 24-72 hours of your purchase time. Usually, your order will begin shortly after you have completed payment, but depending on the quantity of the services you ordered, it may be spread out over the 24-72 hour time frame to ensure full delivery.
Will these services get me banned?
Absolutely not! We provide Social Marketing services in the utmost safest manner that constantly changes with updates made by the Social Media Network. We can’t say the same for other websites. It is very important you purchase these services from a reputable provider. We have been providing these services since 2018 and we are experts in the Industry. Remember, many times you get what you paid for, so if you see services that are so cheap you are likely going to get something that isn’t safe for your profile.
Definitely! Refill is 100% guaranteed. If your bought followers unfollow you, that isn’t under our control. But we will make sure that doesn’t happen. Even if that happens, we will make sure to send you a refill super fast.
Is my order active?
Almost all subscription based orders are activated immediately upon checkout. Please note your order will stay at ‘processing’ until all your posts are used up or until your order is fully delivered. Upon completion the order status will change to ‘completed’. For real services including REAL auto likes & REAL comments, please note that these cannot be delivered instantly as these are not bot based services.
Do you do custom orders?
Yes, we do custom orders. However, we cannot do custom orders for quantities lower than those mentioned on our site. For each service, the lowest quantity that you see on our site is what we can technically do. Lower than those is not possible. For a higher quantity order, in most cases, we can help with those. And for everything else related to social media and PR – we would love to hear your requirements.
No. Our subscriptions do not renew automatically as these are not monthly subscriptions and instead based on posts. Whenever your order is exhausted or expired, you will get an automated email from our site informing you of the same. At such a point you can always buy the service again from our site.
Our subscriptions do not require monthly renewal. Orders last for as long as your posts are remaining in the plan or until 180 days, whichever comes first. Once 180 days have crossed from the date of the order for the subscription, the order will automatically be closed and marked as complete. Please note that the 6 month validity applies to all subscriptions and certain subscriptions may have shorter validity as mentioned on service pages.
On our checkout page you will find two payment methods. Primary (default) payment method allows you to checkout using any Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card. Simply fill in the details and place the order. Our secondary payment method named PayOp gives users to choose from dozens of payment options including EPS, Skrill, Union Pay, PayTM and many more. Unfortunately we do not accept American Express and Discover cards at the moment.
My payment was declined, what do I do now?
When a credit card is declined, our leading recommendation is to contact your bank for further assistance as they may have more insight into what may be causing the issue. All our transactions are 3DS secured, which may require you to verify ownership of card via OTP from your bank. If you have no luck resolving the issue with your banking institution, please contact our friendly support team at support@buyrealfollows.com
Do you accept PayPal?
Yes our site supports PayPal. You can also use any Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card on our site. Additionally, you also have the option to checkout with over numerous payment methods including EPS, Union Pay and BitPay among others. In case of orders exceeding $5000 you can also request for bank wire payment method details.
How long does a refund take?
Most refunds take no longer than 2-3 business days. However, the speed of refunds depend a lot on your bank delays. In case a refund is not received within a maximum of 5 business days you can always contact us for further assistance via support@buyrealfollows.com.
Is Spotify going to grow?
In 2017, Spotify only had 160 million monthly active users. In 2021, this number grew to 406 million monthly active users. Spotify has grown tremendously over the past few years, and it's likely to continue to grow in the future as well.
What is Spotify's growth strategy?
Spotify's primary growth strategies are market development and market penetration.
How long does it take to grow on Spotify?
There's not a specific time frame for growth on Spotify. It can depend on individual artists. On average, it takes from 6 to 12 months for artists to see real growth on the platform.
How do you grow streams on Spotify?
There's not one particular trick that works for everyone to increase their stream on Spotify. Either you can use a mix of organic strategies to increase streams, or you can choose to hire a professional to do that for you.
Engage, Enlighten, Encourage and especially…just be yourself! Social media is a community effort; everyone is an asset. – Susan Cooper The social media scene is constantly changing. Brand new apps and features seem to pop up overnight, and it’s a mad dash to get on these platforms and start adding and tagging your friends and family. But before you know it, some of these sites are all but forgotten. In 2010, the popular image-sharing platform, Instagram, was created. Though many doubted its long-term popularity, Instagram quickly took center stage as the latest social media craze. It was so well-received in fact, that the social-media-giant, Facebook, bought the site for a mere 1 billion dollars just two years after Instagram took off. Surely Facebook saw the potential of the platform as a means to connect and engage with the world, and with that transaction, it became clear that Instagram was here to stay.
There are companies out there that can help relieve some of the pressure of developing your Instagram presence, like us, BuyRealFollows! In fact, we’re seriously helping our clients by offering Instagram followers for free! That’s right–free! With such a great deal you might be thinking, what’s the catch?
| 9,338 |
Grays' life in the desert | "The Lord will guide you always, He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land…" Isaiah 58:11
Grays' life in the desert
"The Lord will guide you always, He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land…" Isaiah 58:11
Family
Give
October 24, 2022 graysafricafive Leave a comment
“Oh no! The frame of my glasses is broken!“
What happens when I need to fix my glasses? What if I need some clothing – without Target or TJ Maxx, where can I get what I need? What will I do if the strap on my leather sandal breaks?
These are normal, everyday things, right? Life inevitably presents challenges, and we must learn what to do and where to go to overcome them. Here in Niger, it is no surprise that the solutions look very different than in North America or other developed parts of the world. I am constantly amazed at the resourcefulness of the people here when it comes to these “everyday life” situations! I could tell so many stories! Here is a look at how we recently handled this one challenge: the broken-glasses.
Andy has an old pair of glasses. Nearly ten years old! He tried to replace them this past year with a newer and more stylish pair, but they just haven’t fit very well and were giving him headaches. Thankfully, Andy held on to the beloved old pair, and they were resurrected to use – but then the frame broke!
To fix the frames we first tried heavy-duty glue, to no avail. We then heeded some local advice and took them to the city market and found a man who fixes glasses and watches.
While we passed some time wandering the open marketplace, he took them to a welder (the frames are metal). This made me laugh – welding seems so extreme! When they were sufficiently welded, our repair man needed to finish the the job with “new” nose pads. (I don’t believe they are new, but whatever.) He had a variety of parts and screws in an old plastic pill pottle, which he periodically dumped onto his simple tabletop whenever he needed to find the right piece to fit.
The whole experience took about an hour. As I watched him perform his task expertly, albeit rather primitively, I thought about how these glasses would certainly have gone in the trash in my home country!
Here in Niger, objects can have a longer “lifespan” – and often multiple uses! – due to the scarcity of resources and creativity of the people. Empty coke cans become artwork. Plastic bottles are re-used for packaging locally made products like juice, honey or peanuts. Old bedsheets become the fabric for a sunshade umbrella. Nothing is wasted.
I wonder what kinds of things you re-purpose rather than throw away? Who knows? With a bit of creativity, perhaps there is new life left in seemingly “old” and “useless” items!
August 20, 2022 graysafricafive 6 Comments
(The above image is borrowed from SIM’s online security training)
Often when we are in the USA, people ask us about the dangers we face by living in West Africa. It is a fair question, especially since our own United States Security Department officially warns against travel to this region. The truth is, we don’t make the decision to come here lightly. We are constantly working to combine faith in God with wisdom.
Here is a glimpse into our process – what we consider, pray over, and work through regarding our decision to live in this context year after year.
1. We look honestly at the facts. The security statistics in the Sahel region grow progressively grimmer year after year. We are now confined to our urban city setting due to the rise in terrorist attacks in the outlying areas. Travel to other parts of the country must happen by airplane since the roads are unsafe. Here is a graph that was shared last year among missionaries:
We do not attempt to look the other way or ignore the raw data, and we know that we are not protected here in the same way we would be in our passport country. We are not naïve about what is really going on around us – that would be foolish! So, we really do take a long hard look at these realities.
2. We receive regular security training from our mission agency. Every year SIM holds us accountable to complete a thorough security training that is Biblical and also very practical. We look at “theology of risk” so that we can be people who follow God while at the same time use the intelligence God has given us. Here is a page from that training:
(The above image is taken from SIM’s online security training.)
As you can see, seeking to live and work in dangerous places is not automatically the courageous faith-filled-thing-to-do! We don’t just pack our bags and come here without thinking! Obedience to God might sometimes mean to avoid danger. We are constantly in prayer that God will give us His wisdom to avoid danger, if at all possible, but to give us courage if He wants us to go.
3. We wrestle with the reality of following Christ. We know that there is inherent risk in following Jesus Christ – suffering is part of the job description. If we live to avoid suffering, that is not obedience. In the same way, if we strive to prove how courageous we are, that is not obedience. So we are continually faced with a desperate need to be sure of our Shepherd’s voice, to make sure we aren’t doing one or the other – avoiding suffering or trying to prove ourselves.
Our life in Niger is not easy – it is hot and dusty, and like most developing countries there are myriad inconveniences. We certainly aren’t here because it makes our life better or more comfortable! But we agree that we do not want to run away from the hard things that God has for us. We will continue to seek wisdom, pray for courage, and with God’s help we will follow Him where He leads us.
May 6, 2022 May 6, 2022 graysafricafive 5 Comments
We are now approaching the home stretch of our time in the USA. It has been wonderful to visit with many friends and spend time with family, answering questions and telling stories about our very different life in West Africa. However, I wish I could bring each person back to Niger for at least one week, to introduce them to our local friends, show them our landscape, and just drive around town to truly take in the sights, sounds and smells.
Unfortunately, I am unable to do that.
But then I remember that I have saved some videos on my computer! These snippets won’t transport the smells, but the sights and sounds are all there.
So, if you’re up for it, let’s take a little “drive” around town together! If you are a parent or grandparent, this might be a fun way for your kids to learn about Niger.
Click here to watch a one-minute video of driving down a main street in Niamey.
Until last year*, our family could drive just under an hour to see some rare wildlife – giraffes! I saved this short video of our last visit to see them, in 2017. (*The giraffes are too far out of the city now, making it dangerous for anyone to venture there. It is now a restricted area because of terrorism.)
This picture was taken back in 2013, the first time we visited the giraffes. They are so beautiful.
Most of the roads in Niger are not paved, except the main streets through the big city. The side streets are typically sand. We are thankful for our 4×4 because the sand can get quite deep sometimes!
Click here to watch a 51-second video of our drive on one of these side streets.
The “rules of the road” are fairly negotiable in Niger. This can cause some interesting situations! There is one intersection that is notorious for becoming COMPLETELY locked up. One time I pulled out my phone and video-taped some of this madness.
Click here to watch a 19-second video of this INSANE intersection.
Another type of “traffic jam” that is not uncommon here in Niamey – cows!
Well I hope you enjoyed that little “tour” of our city!
Did that enhance your understanding of Niger? Or do you NOW have more questions? Please let us know – let’s keep the conversation going.
Here are some more photos that I have taken from my carseat, along the roads of the city… enjoy!
March 3, 2021 graysafricafive 2 Comments
Meeting with couples is one way we are able to share the marriage discipleship material here in Niger. Sometimes a couple might come to our house and sit on our back porch, and sometimes it works better for us to go to their house. The latter is the case with one couple we are currently meeting with, a pastor and his wife.
They live about 10 minutes from us, in a home located next to their church. It is a simple house in the usual Nigèrien style, with mud-brick walls and metal-shuttered windows and doors. We sit outside under an awning made of branches and fabric, enjoying some tea and watching the chickens come and go nonsensically.
We pray, talk through the scriptures and questions in French, allowing Pastor to translate into Tamajaq for his wife to understand more fully. She says she understands us, but he wants to make sure she gets the full meaning of our conversations. It is a sweet picture of his love and respect for her, and I feel privileged to see this rare expression of love up close.
I love the peaceful atmosphere of our times together. We don’t feel rushed. It is private and we share transparently. I can tell that they enjoy being able to talk about marriage and family life from their perspective, as Tamajaq-Nigeriens who want to follow Jesus. We are always learning something new… who are the students here anyway?
Andy and I don’t ever want to take for granted this precious opportunity. It’s not often that a couple is willing to let us into their lives like this, because it requires humility and patience and a time commitment. (We will be meeting weekly for up to 10 or 12 weeks!)
Please pray for us to fully love the people that God brings into our lives here. Pray for this couple, that God will bless them in their relationship and in their ministry in their church and family.
Snapshot: We are going NUTS!
February 28, 2021 graysafricafive 1 Comment
NUTS – Niamey Universal Tournament of Softball – is an annual even here in our city. We weren’t sure if it would even happen this year since the flood pretty much drowned the only softball field! Usually, NUTS happens in October or November, but we were in flood survival mode at that time, so softball was the farthest thing from our mind.
Jonathan’s team – The Sahel Competitive Team – included students and some men from the community.
But the desire to have something normal happen this year won the day!
The field was prepared and the concession stand set up. Teams were put together and a few practices were held. Volunteers put together a round robin of games and just like that, a tournament was underway!
Everyone was rusty, but the fun of it all was the most important thing.
Jonathan is a senior this year and his team – the Sahel Competitive team – was looking pretty sharp. They played well and went to the final championship game! But, in the end they lost to a group of veteran missionary men. The game was close though! The guys can all feel great about their effort for sure.
For me, it was just so much fun to be with people. The event was outdoors and masks were optional. We ate good food from the concession stand, had long unhurried conversations with friends, and cheered on our favorite teams.
Jonathan (left) with his high school friends from his team.
We are really thankful for times like this, that give us a chance to laugh and enjoy one another during a very serious time in history.
December 6, 2020 graysafricafive 7 Comments
When the flood took over our compound in August, the Bible school was one of the entities completely swept through with river water.
I’ve written about our involvement with L’ESPriT – “L’École Supérieur Privée de Théologie” – Bible School of Theology – here on this blog not long ago. This school exists to train pastors to lead churches in unreached parts of Niger and West Africa.
The entire school was inundated by flood waters in late August. The student’s housing, most of their belongings, as well as the library and office were completely ruined.
This was a real crisis! With at least ten new students, along with their families, set to arrive in September, there was nothing left to do except pray for a miracle. Meanwhile, through the flood emergency fund, God provided money to replace some supplies that were lost in the flood – mattresses, gas bottles for cooking, large cooking pots, food, and bed linens. There was a lot of searching around the city, talking with local church leaders, and PRAYER.
In mid-September there was an offer made and accepted to use a center owned by another church denomination. What an answer to prayer! The school director’s wife and I went shopping one day to buy food and pots for the new location. Everyone was excited!
Then, just days before opening, this church denomination changed their minds and revoked their commitment. It was a shock and such a discouragement. All we could do was cry out to God. Some of us simply held on to the knowledge that God is in control – even of this.
Of course you already know there is a happy ending to this story! About one week later there was another phone call, another conversation about an option just outside the city. There is a ministry called “The Rock” that has a center in this village suburb. They explained how they were going through changes, had been praying about what to do next with their center. They had been praying specifically that God would give them something that could infiltrate this village with the light of the gospel, that their neighborhood would be impacted by Christian witness.
The director of ESPriT talked and prayed with the Rock ministry leaders, and it was clear this was the plan for both of them! Thankfully, housing was found for all of the families – within this village! – and even a place for the library and office were secured.
On Monday morning, October 26th L’ÉSPriT held the opening service at their new God-given location! Andy was out of town but I was able to attend. The director spoke about being a light in this new place and the sovereignty of God in everything – the flood, the hardships, and now this new blessing.
Please continue to pray for this school, these pastors-in-training, and for the new neighborhood of people who will be impacted by the presence of this Bible School this year.
November 2, 2020 graysafricafive 2 Comments
I recently stole away with a friend of mine for an afternoon to visit Hadiza and her center for children with special needs.
It is called “Centre de Vie Nouvelle” (“center of new life”), and it is precisely that.
We arrived at the center, at the edge of the city, on a blistering-hot day around noon. The center is actually her own house. She transformed her lovely covered porch into a place of healing.
There was a large woven plastic mat, piles of toys and several smiling children to greet us. And some chickens. And several kittens. And two dogs.
Many of you know Hadiza because I’ve written about her here on this blog, and since she worked as our househelper for a few years. This beautiful woman stepped out in faith last year to start a center for children who are disabled – and severely neglected.
She quit her regular paying job. (In this country, this is unthinkable!)
She invited a few ladies from her church to help with the ministry.
She collected toys and supplies.
Then, she bravely invited a couple of neglected, disabled children she knew from her neighborhood to spend some time with her.
Hadiza told me that she wanted the children to know that God loves them. That they are not forgotten. The reality is that families with disabled children here in Niger simply have no resources to help their kids, so they are left to fend for themselves. Hadiza knew this was happening in her neighborhood and it was bothering her enough to completely change her life
Hadiza essentially “gave up her life” – sacrifice of money, time, social prestige and physical energy – to serve these children.
And I’ve never seen her so happy!
“Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” Matthew 16:25
It was incredibly moving for me.
I watched her hand-feed three little girls over the course of an hour, patiently scooping food into their mouths while repeating their names with phrases of affection. Her countenance and her actions literally radiated LOVE.
Many of these kids can’t use their arms and hands enough to feed themselves, and even chewing is difficult and messy. Hadiza proudly explained their stories of transformation.
One boy – who has the physical appearance of a 10-year-old – is actually 17. He is mentally retarded and cannot talk except for a few words. But – oh that smile! When we were introduced, he tilted his head awkwardly and let out a big laugh and smiled so broadly that it took up his whole face. She described that he was so dirty when they first met that other kids would run away and throw rocks at him. He couldn’t use a bathroom so he smelled and had saliva all over his face. Now, he is clean, well-dressed, healthy and so so happy.
Every one of the kids has a story somewhat like this. Transformation. Healing!
The children receive two healthy meals and a good bath every day. She and her ladies share God’s word with them in their native languages, pray for them, and give them dignity. They receive lessons in French and sing songs. The atmosphere is relaxed and joyful. Some days, there is a nurse and physical therapist who help with the children’s physical needs – giving them exercises that will help them grow physically stronger and self-sufficient.
My friend Ruth and I enjoyed lunch with the children and ladies, listening to Hadiza’s stories and marveling at the beauty of it all. We snuggled the little ones, played with puzzles and balls, and I found myself dreaming of the ripple effect of this precious little center.
Steps of faith. Costly love. Transformed families. Renewed life and hope for children without a voice in a culture that doesn’t recognize them. It is all so beautiful! I am thrilled to share it with you.
And I hope you are inspired – maybe you have a dream that might be “costly”? Remember that a “loss” is actually a win!
Snapshot: A visit to the Clinic
May 10, 2020 graysafricafive 3 Comments
Niger is not known to have a strong health system.
Therefore, when my friend Fanta became pregnant I asked her about her plans for medical care during her pregnancy and delivery. Here would be a great opportunity to understand the health system!
Last week I took Fanta to her regular appointment with the gynecologist at a local clinic.
I learned right away that Fanta wanted to avoid the local hospital and maternity unit due to apparent negligences at those places. Although it is much cheaper to go to those places, she and her husband have been saving extra money so she could go to this clinic.
I was pleasantly surprised! What a nice, clean clinic!
We left early in the morning so she could be first in line, if at all possible. I learned that one doesn’t simply make an appointment at a clinic like this. The patient must arrive and pay and get in line, it is a “take a number” system. (There is a separate part of the clinic that is for emergencies.)
So, arriving at 6:30 a.m., Fanta received her “number one” status and we waited until 8:45 for the doctor to arrive.
Thankfully, this was the day after a big rain, so the temperatures were lovely. We had a chance to catch-up on on our lives with a wonderful breeze keeping us refreshed. This was a beautiful gift to me.
After the encouraging report from the doctor, she needed to go to the laboratory for urine and blood samples. It was going to take some extra time to get the results, so we decided to walk to the pharmacy and buy the necessary prenatal vitamins.
Here is a 15-second video I took while waiting outside of the pharmacy. I am including it here so you can see how life is going on rather normally here in Niger during the pandemic. (However, at the end of the video, you see someone washing their hands at a little washing station – this is something new to life here!)
Upon returning to the clinic, she received her lab results and we waited some more, in order to talk with the doctor about them. She needs to gain more weight, but besides that, all is well!
Their baby girl is going to arrive sometime in early June, according to their calculations. During our conversations, she shared with me the name they have chosen for their baby girl – but it is a secret so don’t even try to persuade me to tell you!
Thanks for “going to the clinic” with us! Although one must plan to be waiting around a lot, the clinic was a positive experience. I hope you enjoyed this little glimpse into life here. Please pray for Fanta and their baby.
May 5, 2020 graysafricafive 3 Comments
We are still in Niger.
We had a real rainstorm yesterday – the first in six months! Rain may not seem like anything worth writing about, but – trust me – I try to share only interesting things about our lives here with you on this blog.
The notable characteristic of rain here in Niger is that it is preceded by DUST.
Photo credit to my friend who lives on the Sahel Academy campus – Bianca Adomnicai. The wind picks up and within about ten minutes the sky becomes dark as night, at 2:00 in the afternoon!
Check out this 25 second video of the dust storm coming into the city!
At my house, we rush to close windows before this wall of dust enters the house. But it can’t be stopped. The rusty-brown-colored particles enter anyway, covering every surface with an unwelcome film.
The rain pounds our tin roof loudly for over an hour, while the dust slowly dissipates, allowing the sun to re-emerge and finish out the day.
The temperature plummets from 112 degrees to less than 85 degrees – a blessed respite from the oppressive heat. Even this morning there was a cool breeze and quiet relief in the air!
Nathaniel – our oldest son, the senior who is graduating this month and will soon be leaving this desert land – exclaimed “I’m so glad that happened! I was hoping to experience one more of those before I left!” (To prove the point that this is a noteworthy experience to share with all of you!)
April 10, 2020 graysafricafive 6 Comments
With the news these days being mostly negative, I thought we could all use a little story about something to celebrate. The Bible School I wrote about in my last post, L’ESPriT, recently received a financial grant to install a well for the compound!
The interesting part of this story is that the most efficient place for the well is in our own backyard. So we’ve had a front row seat to the process of installation this week. It has been tricky, to say the least!
After 2-3 days of very loud pounding, water was found!
Next, they had to get the HUGE water tower over the wall behind our house.
Watch out for power lines! And people! And that wall that separates our house from the busy street and bridge on the other side!
Here you can see how close it is to our house – our clothesline and roof is on the right, and our meeting place for marriage ministry is on the left.
Thankfully for everyone, the water will be funneled to various buildings through underground pipes, so people won’t have to carry gigantic plastic jugs to and from our property.
The well will provide water for the students and other residents on our compound at little to no cost. The well will provide water when the rest of the city has water cuts – which happen regularly. And a bonus is that we should have excellent water pressure now! What a blessing!
It is strange how the entire world is suffering under this covid-19 pandemic, and yet some aspects of life and progress continue. This well is such an encouragement to this community – people have been coming by and taking pictures during the last two days. I hope this encourages you too!
| 24,345 |
Due to COVID-19 , we are all meeting remotely via Zoom. For added security we now require a password to enter the online meeting. Send us a quick email and we will provide you with the password : supportdesk@thedccenter.org
KHUSHDC provides a safe, confidential space for South Asian LGBTQ community members to come together and share experiences. The peer support group is an outlet for South Asian-identified LGBTQ individuals to come and talk about anything affecting them. It’s a secure, judgement-free environment to discuss relationships, sexuality, health, well-being, identity, culture, religion, or anything that is on your mind. Please feel free to join, and share stories, learn about available resources, and join our community
Meetings are every third Saturdays of the month from 1:30-3:00 PM.
This event is only open to people who identify as LGBTQ+ and can trace their family heritage to South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka)
Please contact board.khushdc@gmail.com if you have any questions. KhushDC is a South Asian LGBTQ Community group serving the Washington DC Metropolitan Area.
Δ
Donate to The DC Center
Archives Select Month December 2022 October 2022 September 2022 August 2022 June 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 June 2014 May 2013 July 2012
| 2,179 |
COACHES HOT SEAT > Uncategorized > Coaches Hot Seat Quotes of the Day – Sunday, July 29, 2019 – Albert Einstein
Harry July 28, 2019
Albert Einstein, Coaches Hot Seat, Coaches Hot Seat Rankings
“A man should look for what he is, and not for what he thinks should be.”
“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”
“All that is valuable in human society depends upon the opportunity for development accorded the individual.”
“Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex… It takes a touch of genius – and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction.”
“Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.”
“Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.”
“I think and think for months and years. Ninety-nine times, the conclusion is false. The hundredth time I am right.”
“Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.”
“Most people say that is it is the intellect which makes a great scientist. They are wrong: it is character.”
“Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.”
“People love chopping wood. In this activity one immediately sees results.”
“Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.”
“To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle, requires creative imagination and marks real advance in science.”
“You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else.”
“A happy man is too satisfied with the present to dwell too much on the future.”
“Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth.”
“Nature shows us only the tail of the lion. But there is no doubt in my mind that the lion belongs with it even if he cannot reveal himself to the eye all at once because of his huge dimension.”
“I am by heritage a Jew, by citizenship a Swiss, and by makeup a human being, and only a human being, without any special attachment to any state or national entity whatsoever.”
“Subtle is the Lord, but malicious He is not.”
“I do not carry such information in my mind since it is readily available in books. …The value of a college education is not the learning of many facts but the training of the mind to think.”
“I was sitting in a chair in the patent office at Bern when all of sudden a thought occurred to me: If a person falls freely he will not feel his own weight. I was startled. This simple thought made a deep impression on me. It impelled me toward a theory of gravitation.”
“Try and penetrate with our limited means the secrets of nature and you will find that, behind all the discernible concatenations, there remains something subtle, intangible and inexplicable. Veneration for this force beyond anything that we can comprehend is my religion. To that extent I am, in point of fact, religious.”
“If A is success in life, then A = x + y + z. Work is x, play is y and z is keeping your mouth shut.”
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.”
“I never think of the future. It comes soon enough.”
“The most incomprehensible thing about the world is that it is comprehensible.”
“Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. The mediocre mind is incapable of understanding the man who refuses to bow blindly to conventional prejudices and chooses instead to express his opinions courageously and honestly.”
“The important thing is not to stop questioning; curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when contemplating the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of the mystery every day. The important thing is not to stop questioning; never lose a holy curiosity.”
“When a man sits with a pretty girl for an hour, it seems like a minute. But let him sit on a hot stove for a minute and it’s longer than any hour. That’s relativity.”
“If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or objects.”
“If I can’t picture it, I can’t understand it.”
“The most beautiful and deepest experience a man can have is the sense of the mysterious. It is the underlying principle of religion as well as all serious endeavor in art and science. He who never had this experience seems to me, if not dead, then at least blind.”
| 4,664 |
Upon receiving their daily share of cucumber, the pigs always hold their slice firmly between their teeth while beating a hasty retreat to the nearest unoccupied pigloo. The purpose of this is to ensure food security while maximizing the ability to consume as much as possible before poachers close in.
On this occasion the fleece bedding had just been changed but the cage had not yet been set back up. Unsure of what to do with the open layout, Belka, Peaches and Truffle ended up devouring their cucumbers next to one another. After a few minutes, this devolved into unabashed thievery, squeaky complaining and territorial nose-butting.
In contrast, Poof can be seen consuming her slice at a safe distance. Clearly this is one pig who knows how to keep her cucumber.
3 comments:
Mopsy September 5, 2012 at 2:07 AM
Harsh, Mummy, not having set up the cage. Boom Boom and Bucky will fight over the same piece of food. Yes, I do give them several pieces but still.....
Mr Woody will grab his piece and run off to his pigloo in spite of being the only pig in the cage.
ReplyDelete
Replies
PaintedThread September 5, 2012 at 6:02 AM
Love the title. It's so funny to see how their tactics differ.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alice September 5, 2012 at 4:35 PM
In my defense, I wanted a snack - and they did too (although, since when do pigs ever NOT want something to eat?)
| 1,430 |
If you wish to do your own pressure washing, you need the proper devices for the job. You will certainly require Gas or Electric electric motors, Nozzles, as well as Hoses. Below, we will discuss the devices you require. Make sure you know what they do prior to you purchase them. Ideally, this short article will assist you determine which stress washer you require. And also don’t fail to remember to take a look at the security devices. Its worth investing in a top quality stress washer.
There are 2 kinds of electrical motors made use of in stress washing machines. Induction as well as conventional. Induction electric motors have higher outcome ability as well as can last for approximately 15 years. Standard motors are prone to damage as well as overheating, while induction motors are simpler to change. Both have their benefits and drawbacks. Other than their power consumption, the advantages of induction motors consist of longer motor life as well as boosted efficiency.
Other than its low-price factor, electrical stress washers call for power. They are relatively peaceful and also do not produce exhaust. Nonetheless, they are not powerful sufficient to provide much pressure. An electrical pressure washer with a 15-amp electric motor is best matched for light-duty pressure washing applications. It is feasible to get an electrical stress washing machine with higher horse power for heavier-duty applications. If you do not require much pressure, you can select a portable electrical power washer with a 25-amp motor.
Gas engines
While stress washing machines are superb tools that can be made use of to cleanse a selection of products, they can be susceptible to problems. While some stress washers can be repaired, they need to be serviced on a regular basis to maintain them running successfully. Typically, gas engines are needed for pressure washing, however there are likewise a couple of things that you must remember before making use of one. For instance, do not mix two various type of gas. While it might look like a waste of money to switch the gas kind, this could damage the engine and need substitute components.
When choosing a pressure washer, think about the kind of work youll be doing as well as the location where youll be using it. There are gas and electrical stress washers, with every one having a different working stress. A gas-powered pressure washer will be far better suited for cleaning large locations than an electric one. Similarly, an electrical pressure washing machine will certainly be easier to transport if youre going to use it in a residential setting.
A pressure washing machine is a vital device in cleaning jobs. The tubes used for pressure washing convey pressurized jets of water. These jets eliminate oil, oil and also dust. High-pressure hose pipes are made use of for cleaning tasks in a wide array of markets. Right here are some ideas for picking the appropriate hose. You will certainly require to recognize the pressure washers capability to select the ideal hose. Tubes are usually made of PVC plastic or rubber.
When getting a stress washer, make certain that the hose pipes have the correct temperature level variety. Hoses that aren’t created for heats will weaken gradually or rupture. Whether you prepare to wash concrete, timber, or other surfaces, youll demand to make sure that the hoses you acquisition have the ability to deal with the temperature level. Maintaining the hose pipes clean up can aid protect the hoses from damages, so always see to it theyre cleansed completely after each usage.
When pressure washing with a stress washer, you require the ideal nozzles. You ought to select the nozzles based upon the sort of surface youre cleansing. Some surface areas call for low-pressure sprays while others need high-pressure streams. If youre unsure which nozzles you need, start by contrasting the different nozzles readily available. Youll discover that some nozzles execute much better on softer surfaces than others.
One of the most effective nozzle is the red-colored one, which punctures timber, exterior siding, and also concrete. While the red-colored nozzle is usually the least made use of, it still has its place in power washing. Its sharp tip can sever skin and also timber surface areas with a powerful stream of water, making it valuable for tearing down wasp nests. It can also be utilized for spot-cleaning hard spots.
Mr. Clean Power Washing, LLC – Joppa
Tools Called For Pressure Washing If you wish to do your own pressure washing, you need the proper devices for the job. You will certainly require Gas or Electric electric motors, Nozzles, as well as Hoses. Below, we will discuss the devices you require. Make sure you know what they do prior to you purchase…
| 4,995 |
I help struggling moms learn how to love themselves so they can create joy filled lives and meaningful relationships.
I believe in you
Of all of the things I want you to know, it's how magnificent you are.
How you are enough exactly as you are. And how worthy of love you are.
You belong here. Whoever, however, and wherever you are in your journey. Exactly as you are. And exactly as you will become.
It has taken me awhile to get to the place that I can tell you, with certainty, that this is true.
My story has had a lot of difficulty. Trauma, abuse, poverty, abandonment, shame.
Probably much like yours.
Through these difficulties, I hid my true self, and my pain from everyone around me. I isolated myself from friendships that I desperately needed to have, but could not figure out how to participate in fully with my baggage.
I did not know how to be fully who I was and also allow others in. I didn't know how I could be honest about my life and still be loved.
So I kept doing the things I knew would make me fit in. The things that were expected of me. On the outside, my life seemed “perfect.”
Until one day I realized the life I was living wasn't mine. I was simply going through the motions of my fay while hoping that “someday” it would be better.
Living in fear and shame was no life.
Somewhere in the middle of all of the chaos, I realized that what was lost in the overwhelm and desperation for tomorrow to be different was ME
The journey let to finding and truly loving myself.
To coming back to who I always was but had forgotten.
To realizing what my heart needed and was always looking to give.
What I learned through all of the difficulties is that no matter what is happening, or has happened, we always get to choose who we are.
We are never defined by what has happened to us. And there is a path forward. To freedom. Love. Acceptance. Connection.
What we believe about ourselves and others is a choice. And we can choose it over and over again.
One of the greatest gifts in life is figuring out who we truly are and then loving and being loved from that deep place of knowing.
| 2,125 |
A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement made between a landowner and a conservation nonprofit or government body. Agricultural conservation easements permanently protect farmland from future development while ensuring it remains available for agricultural production. The easement does this by permanently removing development rights, prohibiting incompatible uses (industrial and commercial), and protecting the property’s agricultural values, including the soils, water rights, and open space.
Washington State’s Conservation Easement Enabling Statuses (Washington Rev. Code 84.34.200 to 84.34.250) recognizes the public benefit in the preservation of open space and allows for the use and public funding of conservation easements to protect this public benefit.
RCW 84.34.200: “The legislature finds that the haphazard growth and spread of urban development is encroaching upon, or eliminating, numerous open areas and spaces of varied size and character, including many devoted to agriculture, the cultivation of timber, and other productive activities, and many others having significant recreational, social, scenic, or esthetic values. Such areas and spaces, if preserved and maintained in their present open state, would constitute important assets to existing and impending urban and metropolitan development, at the same time that they would continue to contribute to the welfare and well-being of the citizens of the state as a whole. The acquisition of interests or rights in real property for the preservation of such open spaces and areas constitutes a public purpose for which public funds may properly be expended or advanced.”
Because conservation easements involve private negotiations between a landowner and an easement holding entity, those negotiations are typically handled with care to protect any sensitive landowner information and respect privacy during negotiations. Many elements of the conservation easement process are public record however, including grant applications to public agencies for easement funding, finalized transactions and recorded acquisition documents, and public and educational events hosted on protected properties after closing.
How much is a conservation easement worth? Who is compensated for an easement?
The value of a conservation easement is determined by an appraisal, which considers the value of the property and its development rights according to the “highest and best use” of the property. The value of an agricultural conservation easement is the fair market value of the property minus its agricultural value, as determined by a qualified appraiser. In general, agreements that are more restrictive have a higher value. If the easement is being purchased by a land trust or government entity, the landowner is compensated cash through escrow for appraised value of the conservation easement. If the easement is being donated to a land trust, the appraised value of the conservation easement can be used as a basis for the landowner to claim income tax incentives on a charitable contribution. For more information on the tax incentives of donating a conservation easement, please see here.
What is in a conservation easement? What is allowed and what is restricted?
Easements have a host of legal provisions meant to support the agricultural uses of the property. These include,
Removing development rights
Prohibiting development for commercial or industrial use
Limiting impervious surfaces (to keep soil open and available for agriculture), such as compacted gravel, pavement, and other structures that impede water infiltration
Keeping water rights intact with the property, and not allowing them to lapse
Restricting mining or large scale land alteration
Allowing for all intended agriculture uses as defined in WA state code
Allowing temporary ag accessory uses, as is consistent with county zoning and code
Flexibility towards activities that can co-exist alongside ag, like habitat
Each conservation easement involves negotiation with the landowner around certain provisions and restrictions that take into account the landowner’s long-term plan for their property.
How are easements managed?
The management and stewardship of easements are a perpetual responsibility and involve additional costs to the holding entity. Government agencies, which are the primary funders of easements through public grants, require certain restrictions and management. PCC Farmland Trust [holding entities] has high respect for private landowner rights when managing easements, and works closely with landowners and tenants. Perpetual responsibilities and costs of holding easements include:
Annual monitoring,
enforcement costs of violations,
natural resource management through stewardship planning,
and opportunities for educational events (which are negotiated with landowners on a case-by-case basis and are not a requirement of the easement).
Who can hold easements?
Land Trusts, County Government, Conservation Districts or State and Federal Government can hold easements. Land Trusts and County Governments are the most common holders of easements. All easement holders work under the same base set of legal standards, public benefit requirements, private benefit prohibitions, and funding requirements.
How are projects prioritized?
Conservation easement projects are prioritized by a number of factors. For agricultural conservation easements, most public funding sources agree on the key indicators of long-term agricultural value and viability – prime soils, water availability, on-site infrastructure, historical productivity, market access, proximity to other agricultural lands, and proximity to other protected open space, among others. In addition, projects are also prioritized by potential threat of conversion, as well as the general open space benefits (including water quality, wildlife habitat, and scenic views). In Pierce County, the members of the Strategic Conservation Partnership (SCP) partnered with the Pierce County Ag Roundtable to conduct a GIS-based prioritization of farmland protection opportunities in Pierce County; based on a set of farmland quality indicators (soils, location, etc.) and threat indicators (pending plats, proximity to urban growth boundaries). This prioritization is used by the SCP as a guide for landowner outreach and evaluation of farmland conservation opportunities in Pierce County.
Where does funding for easements come from?
Funding for easements primarily come from federal (USDA), state (RCO), and county grants. PCC Farmland Trust also raises and leverages private contributions to support our farmland protection work.
How long does the process take?
A land trust or other conservation partner must undertake many steps before it can purchase an easement, including conducting a site assessment, securing of public funds, conducting acquisition and liability due diligence, and completing title review and baseline documentation. Because easements are primarily funded through public grants, which are available on either an annual or a biennial basis, it typically takes 2 years or more for a land trust or conservation partner to purchase an easement.
Can a landowner sell a conserved property? What happens to the easement?
Because easements are tied to the property and not the landowner, landowners can sell their conserved property and the property will continue to be protected by the conservation easement. Any future landowner is responsible for upholding the conservation easement.
Can easements change after they’ve been agreed to?
Easements are not meant to change over time. They are written to be perpetual legal agreements. There are enforcement and amendment processes described in the easement for situations when an easement needs to be amended. Anytime an easement is amended there needs to be a net conservation benefit from the amendment. An easement cannot be amended without agreement of the current landowner.
What is the value of an easement when development is restricted by zoning, like in a floodplain?
When valuing a conservation easement, an appraiser takes into account the development pressure and potential uses of a property. Depending on zoning, a limited amount of development may still be allowed, making a conservation easement hold some value. Typically greater development pressure will result in a higher easement value.
Although PCC Farmland Trust places a strong emphasis on keeping farmland actively farmed, the public benefit test required of an easement is met by the land staying as “open space”. In general, requiring a landowner to keep a property in production is a sticky issue. Given the way that easements function legally, they are more effective as a tool to prohibit a certain activity, than to require a certain activity to happen. While it is difficult to require conserved land to be farmed, PCC Farmland Trust’s easement does incorporate a number of provisions to encourage continued agricultural use, including provisions requiring current use enrollment, maintenance of water rights and open fields, and limitations supporting long-term affordability.
| 9,415 |
Are your tree limbs getting out of control? Don't just put up with unsightly trees-reach out to Turf Pros for residential or commercial tree trimming services. Our crew will ensure that you have no loose branches and that your trees are trimmed in a way that promotes healthy growth. Your trees will look better than ever once we're finished.
With over three decades of experience, you can trust that we're the right company for the job. We'll even give you tree maintenance tips so that your trees stay healthy and strong. Make an appointment with our team today.
: The benefits of trimming your trees regularly
While some people plant trees and then never care for them again, this isn't the best way to get a beautiful landscape. Trimming your trees will...
Eliminate dead or dying branches that could fall and injure someone
Prevent the spread of tree disease
Promote symmetrical tree growth
Improve the view on your property
Allow sunlight to reach lower branches
If you have a fruit-bearing tree, trimming it regularly could boost the amount of fruit it yields. Call (307) 220-8239 now to learn more about the benefits of trimming your trees.
| 1,148 |
B.C. Civil Forfeiture Office seeks to add more regulatory bodies it can obtain information from, including the B.C. Securities Commission and BC Hydro
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Forward by Email
The Commission of Inquiry into Money Laundering in B.C. headed by Justice Austin Cullen (top) heard from B.C. Civil Forfeiture Office executive director Phil Tawtel (right), who took questions from commission counsel Patrick McGowan (left) on Dec. 18, 2020.Submitted
The B.C. Minister of Public Safety is expanding a program that allows government to forfeit seized property considered to be proceeds of criminal activity not proven in a court of law.
The B.C. Civil Forfeiture Office (CFO), which received criticism at the Commission of Inquiry into Money Laundering in B.C. last year, is broadening its program in many facets.
First, it's redefining what is “likely to cause serious bodily harm,” in order to add more items it could forfeit. And it's adding two new communications tools being used by organized crime and drug trafficking suspects to an existing list of what it may forfeit.
Those tools cited in a Friday news release are radio jammers and GPS trackers. Criminals use jammers to block the ability of police using GPS to monitor them and to block radio communication by authorities, said the ministry.
And GPS trackers are being used by drug traffickers to track rivals they are “targeting with violence or to keep tabs on subordinates, vehicles and high-value contraband items such as guns and drugs,” added the ministry.
"We need to ensure that our civil forfeiture program is working as well as it can, so when police advise us about how drug gangs and organized crime are changing the ways they do business in B.C., we are committed to taking necessary steps to keep pace," said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. "These latest regulatory changes build on the legislative updates we made in 2019 and will help reduce violent crime and other activities that pose clear risks to public safety."
Fiona Wilson, deputy chief of the investigation division, Vancouver Police Department, said it was important to be able to seize these tools.
But the CFO appears not done with expanding its powers.
“The CFO is also formalizing its ability to secure specific information from more public bodies, which can strengthen cases against money laundering and gang activity. Public bodies added to the prescribed list in the regulation include the BC Securities Commission, the Motor Dealer Council, the BC Lottery Corporation, BC Hydro and BC Assessment.”
Details have yet to be announced.
The office must apply to the court to forfeit seized property, including property suspected of being proceeds of crime. If a person does not contest an application by the office or comes to a consent agreement, the property is deemed a proceed of crime however the person admits no personal wrongdoing. The office uses police evidence in cases but does not conduct investigations. However, it can compel government bodies to provide information. A common seized item may be a vehicle and so it may compel ICBC for registration data, for example.
One may contest a forfeiture application by the office by providing proof the property wasn't used for proceeds of criminal activity.
This has raised significant concerns among lawyers and specifically the BC Civil Liberties Association.
The association asserts civil forfeiture lacks judicial oversight, undermines access to justice and lacks transparency. On the whole, the forfeiture regime may not even be effective, it told the money laundering inquiry last year.
“There is a serious risk that police will rely on civil forfeiture as a shortcut to avoid conducting a proper criminal investigation.”
The inquiry has heard how federal RCMP have been ineffective at prosecuting money laundering crimes.
The CFO's executive director Phil Tawtel told the inquiry the office has seized $114 million worth of cash and items since inception 10 years ago. About 35% goes to court fees, 15% to run the office and 50% goes back to community-level crime prevention.
| 4,213 |
You do not have permission to edit this page, for the following reason:
The action you have requested is limited to users in the group: Users.
You can view and copy the source of this page.
Humphry Marshall (October 10, 1722-November 5, 1801), an American botanist and international exporter of plants, established a [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|botanic garden]] at his home in rural Pennsylvania and wrote ''Arbustum Americanum'' (1785), a catalog of indigenous American trees and shrubs. ==History== [[File:2075.jpg|thumb|left|Fig. 1, Title page from Humphry Marshall, ''Arbustrum [''sic''] Americanum'', 1785.]] Through independent study and exploration, Humphry Marshall overcame his rudimentary childhood education to become a pioneering authority on American botany. His parents were English Quaker immigrants who established a farm near the west branch of the Brandywine creek in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Marshall spent his early life in agricultural labor and as an apprentice to a stone mason, before assuming responsibility for the family farm around 1848.<ref>William Darlington, ''Memorials of John Bartram and Humphry Marshall: With Notices of Their Botanical Contemporaries'' (Philadelphia: Lindsay & Blakiston, 1849), 485-87, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> <span id="ornamental_cite"></span> Thereafter, according to [[William Darlington]], Marshall began "indulging his taste, and employing his leisure time in collecting and cultivating useful ornamental plants" ([[#ornamental|view text]]).<ref>"The Chester County Cabinet of Natural Science," ''The Register of Pennsylvania'' 1 (1828), 302, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/4JXNRSNZ view on Zotero].</ref> Marshall's study of plants was aided by books on botany and material medica, such as John Gerard's ''The Herball, or, Generall Historie of Plantes'' (1633) and John Quincy's ''Lexicon Physico-medicum'' (probably 6th edition, 1743).<ref>Darlington, 488, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero]; John Quincy, ''Lexicon Physico-Medicum: Or, A New Medicinal Dictionary'', 6th edn (London: T. Longman, 1743), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2AVPZP3T view on Zotero]. John Gerard, ''The Herball, Or, Generall Historie of Plantes'', 3rd edn (London: Adam Islip, Joyce Norton, and Richard Whitaker, 1636), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/39GUKA97 view on Zotero].</ref>On foraging trips, Marshall gathered plants and seeds for the small [[botanic garden]] he developed on his father's property. He was also "in the practice of Collecting a few Seeds" for his cousin [[John Bartram]] in Philadelphia.<ref>Humphry Marshall to Benjamin Franklin November 27, 1771, ''The Papers of Benjamin Franklin'', ed. William B. Willcox, 47 vols. (New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1974), 18: 255-56, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2ZC3QI4R view on Zotero].</ref> Fellow Chester County Quakers who ventured into distant areas contributed to the diversification of Marshall's garden. While managing a trading store in Pittsburgh, James Kenny collected botanical specimens in company with [[John Bartram|Bartram]] and sent seeds back to Marshall in November 1762.<ref>James Kenny, "Journal of James Kenny, 1761-1763 (con.)," ed. John W. Jordan, ''Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography'' 37 (April 1913): 174, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/WP3KM6J5 view on Zotero]; see also (January 1913): 46, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/QKQAF77E view on Zotero] and "James Kenny's 'Journey to Ye Westward,' 1758-59," ed. John W. Jordan, ''Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography'' 37 (October, 1913): 420, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/WIUF9MKS view on Zotero].</ref> <span id="Millikan_cite"></span> After moving from Chester County to North Carolina, the Irish Quaker William Millikan (c.1710/15-1795) sent Marshall pine cones and flowers in June 1765 ([[#Millikan|view text]]). <span id="greenhouse_cite"></span>He erected a [[greenhouse]] in 1764 and made other improvements after inheriting a large section of his father's estate in 1767 ([[#greenhouse|view text]]). [[File:2076.jpg|thumb|Fig 2, Anonymous, "Upton House near Stratford in Essex," copper engraved plate from ''The Modern Universal British Traveller.'' (London: J. Cooke, 1779).]] It was also in 1767 that Marshall began a lively transatlantic correspondence with the English Quaker physician and plant collector John Fothergill (1712-1780), who was then laying out an American garden at his country house, Upton [Fig. 2].<ref>Darlington, 1849, 495, 497-98,499, 501, 513-15, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> In the course of an eight-year correspondence, Marshall sent at least ten boxes of seeds and plants to Fothergill.<ref>Louise Conway Belden, "Humphry Marshall’s Trade in Plants of the New World for Gardens and Forests of the Old World," ''Winterthur Portfolio'' 2 (1965): 109-10, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> In return, Fothergill sent Marshall books on botany<ref>Darlington, 495, 497-98, 499-500, 504, 505, 509, 511, 512, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero]; Belden, 1965, 110, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> and a number of scientific instruments, including a microscope, a thermometer, a reflecting telescope, and "a small pocket-glass for viewing flowers" <span id="glass_cite"></span> ([[#glass|view text]]).<ref>Benjamin Franklin, ''The Papers of Benjamin Franklin'', ed. William B. Willcox, 47 vols (New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1973) 17: 110, 150-52, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/C75RBUW5 view on Zotero]; Franklin, 1974, 18: 82, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2ZC3QI4R view on Zotero]; Darlington 1849: 497, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> In 1772 Fothergill reported that, with Marshall's assistance, he had assembled an exceptional collection of American plants, "some never seen in England before," so that "It is acknowledged by the ablest botanists...that there is not a richer bit of ground in curious American plants, in Great Britain: and for many of the most curious, I am obliged to thy diligence and care" <span id="Fothergill_1772_cite"></span> ([[#Fothergill_1772|view text]]). Fothergill encouraged Marshall's plan of exporting plants to Great Britain, assuring him in October 1768, "I doubt not but many of our gardeners would be glad to purchase such boxes, containing assortments of new and curious plants, at a considerable price, and sufficient to pay for the care and pains in raising them" <span id="Fothergill_1768_cite"></span>([[#Fothergill_1768|view text]]). [[Benjamin Franklin]] was less optimistic, <span id="gentelman_cite"></span> however ([[#gentelman|view text]]), when Marshall wrote in November 1771 to ask that he "promote a corrispon[dence] between me and Some of the Seeds men or Nursery Men in and about London or any Country Gentlemen that is Curious in Making Collections of our American Vegetables or Simples" <span id="Franklin_cite"></span>([[#Franklin|view text]]). Thomas Parke, a Philadelphia Quaker pursuing his medical training in Britain, was equally discouraging, writing to Marshall in July 1772: "I have taken some pains to oblige thee, in endeavouring to recommend thee to some seedsmen, &c., in England; but fear I have had but poor success" <span id="Parke_cite"></span> ([[#Parke|view text]]). Undeterred, Marshall laid out an extensive [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|botanic garden]] in 1773 on property he had purchased the previous year near his father's farm. He continued to add to his garden during the Revolutionary War, acquiring in May 1777, for example, a flowering shrub and other North Carolina plants from Moses Mendenhall (1743-1805), a fellow Quaker with Chester County connections.<ref>Belden, 1965, 108, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> Thomas Bond (1712-1784), a Quaker physician in Philadelphia who had studied under the French botanist Antoine Laurent de Jussieu (1748-1836) at the Royal [[botanic garden|Botanic Garden]] in Paris,<ref>Edmund Berkeley, "Benjamin Franklin and a 'Dear Ould Friend,'" ''Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society'' 137 (September 1993): 402, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/QEKX3XD3 view on Zotero]; Darlington, 1849, 316-17, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> recruited Marshall's assistance with a series of mutually beneficial botanical exchanges with the French <span id="Bond_cite"></span>([[#Bond|view text]]).<ref>Darlington, 1849, 537-39, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> Requests for American trees and plants came from the royal garden in Paris and from Louis de Noailles (1713-1793), who operated an experimental garden at Saint-Germain-en-Laye <span id="Noailles_cite"></span> ([[#Noailles|view text]]). <span id="king_cite"></span> Louis XVI reportedly "examined every article" in a box from Marshall that reached Paris in 1781 ([[#king|view text]]). Orders from several other French clients followed, including a request for nearly 200 plants in April 1789 from Jacques-Louis Descemet (1761-1839), nurseryman and florist to the King's brother.<ref>Belden, 1965, 123, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero]; Buffington-Marshall Papers, Scrapbook 4 [Manuscript 77045], item 1453, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2DJ2ACX8 view on Zotero].</ref> [[File:2079.jpg|thumb|left|Fig. 3, George Samuel after Thomas Medland, ''A South View of a Villa at Grove Hill, Camberwell, Surry'', 1792.]] Demand for America's flowering shrubs and useful trees increased throughout Europe following the Revolutionary War. Aided by his nephew [[Moses Marshall]], who joined his household in April 1784, Marshall provided seeds and plants to clients in England, Scotland, France, Italy, Brussels, Holland, and Germany.<ref>For Marshall's correspondents, see the list compiled from letters preserved in the Historic Society of Pennsylvania in John W. Harshberger, "Additional Letters of Humphry Marshall, Botanist and Nurseryman," ''Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography'' 53 (July 1929): 271-75, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/58HQXQQZ view on Zotero], and the finding aids for the Humphry and Moses Marshall Papers in the William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan; [http://quod.lib.umich.edu/c/clementsmss/umich-wcl-M-2549mar?view=text view website] and the Buffington-Marshall Papers (Scrapbook 4 [Manuscript 77045]), Chester County Historical Society, [http://dla.library.upenn.edu/dla/pacscl/ead.html?id=PACSCL_CCHS_CCHSMSColl168 view website]. See also Francis W. Pennell, "Humphry Marshall, Botanist," ''Bulletin of Friends’ Historical Association'' 24 (Autumn 1935), 80, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/EEJ26WSU view on Zotero]; Belden, 1965, 114-15, 123-24, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> In 1783 Marshall sent two boxes of American plants to the Italian physicist Abbé Felice Fontana (1730-1805), who was building the natural history collections of the Royal Museum of Physics and Natural History in Florence <span id="Fontana_cite"></span> ([[#Fontana|view text]]).<ref>Darlington, 1849, 550-552, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> Through the agency of Sir Joseph Banks, President of the Royal Society in London, the contents of several boxes from Marshall were planted in the Royal [[botanic garden|Botanic Garden]] at Kew <span id="Banks_cite"></span> ([[#Banks|view text]]).<ref>Darlington, 1849, 560-63, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero]; Belden, 1965, 115, 117, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> A single order from the London firm of Grimwood, Hudson, and Barret in 1787 called for 1,300 plants.<ref>Belden, 1965 107,119-22, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> Marshall's shipments sustained the transatlantic vogue for creating discrete garden areas dedicated to American plants. The English Quaker physician John Coakley Lettsom (1744-1815), who had purchased the [[greenhouse]] and [[hothouse]] plants of his deceased colleague John Fothergill, desired Marshall's help in developing an American garden at his suburban London villa, Grove Hill <span id="Lettsom_cite"></span> ([[#Lettsom|view text]]) [Fig. 3]. Like Fothergill, Lettsom provided Marshall with books on botany, such as Thomas Walter's ''Flora Caroliniana'' (1788), and assisted him with scientific instruments.<ref>Thomas Walter, ''Flora Caroliniana'' (London: J. Fraser, 1788), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/GM66U4TR view on Zotero]; Darlington, 1849, 530, 543, 549, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> [[File:2077.jpg|thumb|Fig. 4, Thomas S. Sinclair after John T. French, "Prunus Americana," pl. 48 in Thomas Nuttall, ''The North American Sylva'' (Philadelphia: J. Dobson, 1849).]] Marshall also provided seeds and plants to Pennsylvania neighbors.<ref>In addition to the following examples, see Harshberger, 1929, 271-72, 275, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/58HQXQQZ view on Zotero].</ref> The clergyman and botanist Henry Muhlenberg (1753-1815), who was creating an herbarium in Lancaster, offered seeds imported from Germany in exchange for the shrubs and roots Marshall sent him in 1789 <span id="Muhlenberg_cite"></span> ([[#Muhlenberg|view text]]).<ref>James A. Mears, "Some Sources of the Herbarium of Henry Muhlenberg (1753-1815)," ''Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society'' 122 (June 1978): 155–74, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/3D93XEPA view on Zotero]; Matthias Schönhofer, ''Letters from an American Botanist: The Correspondences of Gotthilf Heinrich Ernst Mühlenberg (1753–1815)'', Beiträge Zur Europäischen Überseegeschichte, 101 (Stuttgart: Franz Steiner Verlag, 2014), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/RKAC9I6K view on Zotero].</ref> Marshall provided maple and poplar trees to Frederick Eugene Francois, Baron de Beelen-Bertholff (1729-1805), former envoy from the Austrian Netherlands, who was laying out extensive gardens at his estate in Chester County.<ref>Robert R. Gutowski, "Humphry Marshall’s Botanic Garden: Living Collections 1773-1813" (unpublished Master of Science in Public Horticulture Administration, University of Delaware, 1988), 33, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/FEKTNCPT view on Zotero].</ref> [[William Hamilton]] sent Marshall long lists of plants he desired for his estate [[The Woodlands]] on the outskirts of Philadelphia, and frequently urged Marshall to visit him there <span id="Hamilton_cite"></span> ([[#Hamilton|view text]]).<ref>Darlington, 1849, 528-29, 577-80, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> While laying out the [[State House Yard]] in Philadelphia in 1785, the wealthy British merchant [[Samuel Vaughan]] turned to Marshall for his "advice and assistance" in collecting "a specimen of every tree in America that will grown in this state" <span id="Vaughan_cite"></span> ([[#Vaughan|view text]]). The boom in Marshall's botanical business owed much to his publication in 1785 of ''Arbustum Americanum: The American Grove, or, An Alphabetical Catalogue of Forest Trees and Shrubs'', the first American imprint on native trees and shrubs by an American author [Fig. 1].<ref>Humphry Marshall, ''Arbustum Americanum: The American Grove, Or, An Alphabetical Catalogue of Forest Trees and Shrubs'' (Philadelphia: Joseph Crukshank, 1785), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/MJU57ISS view on Zotero].</ref> The book employed Linnaean taxonomic nomenclature and featured the earliest scientific descriptions of several plants thereafter denoted by the suffix "''Marsh''.", among them ''Taxus canadensis Marsh.'' (ground hemlock) and ''Prunus Americana Marsh.'' (American plum) [Fig. 4], and ''Franklinia Alatamaha'' [Fig. 5]. Convinced of the book's importance, [[Samuel Vaughan]] had overseen and largely funded its publication <span id="Vaughan_Arbustum_cite"></span> ([[#Vaughan_Arbustum|view text]]). Although American sales were slow, the ''Arbustum'' sold well in England. German and French translations were published in 1788, the latter by Charles Lezermes, an assistant in the nurseries of the King of France.<ref>Joseph Ewan, "Fougeroux de Bondaroy (1732-1789) and His Projected Revision of Duhamel Du Monceau’s 'Traité' (1755) on Trees and Shrubs: I. An Analytical Guide to Persons, Gardens, and Works Mentioned in the Manuscripts," ''Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society'', 103 (December 1959): 814, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/6JPE8DEU view on Zotero]; Frans A. Stafleu, "Review: ''Arbustum Americanum''," ''Taxon'', 17 (August 1968), 427-28, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/USJZURVF view on Zotero]; Harshberger, 1929, 27, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/58HQXQQZ view on Zotero]; Pennell, 1935, 81, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/EEJ26WSU view on Zotero]; Belden, 1965, 113, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero]; .</ref> The Moravian minister and botanist Samuel Kramsch (1758-1824) claimed that several of his botanical colleagues, including Jacob van Vleck (1751-1831) and Christian Frederick Kampf (1708-1808), each owned a copy of Marshall's ''Arbustum'', and that he used it as a textbook during the years 1786 to 1788 while a teacher at Nazareth Hall, where his young pupils included the future botanists Lewis David von Schweinitz (1780-1834) and Christian Frederick Denke (1775-1838) <span id="Kramsch_cite"></span>([[#Kramsch|view text]]).<ref>Levin Theodore Reichel, ''A History of Nazareth Hall, from 1755 to 1855; and of the Reunions of Its Former Pupils, in 1854 and 1855'' (Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott & Company, 1855), 45, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/JSWSGGS8 view on Zotero]; Francis W. Pennell, "The Botanist Schweinitz and His Herbarium," ''Bartonia'', 16 (1934): 1–8, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/JHR5UFIN view on Zotero]; James R. Troyer, "Early American Moravian Botanists in North Carolina and Elsewhere," ''Journal of the North Carolina Academy of Science'', 125 (2009): 1–6, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/AAB8SVN4 view on Zotero].</ref> In addition to contributing to knowledge of American flora, Marshall intended ''Arbustum Americanum'' to serve as a commercial catalog. With an eye to overseas customers, he noted in his introduction: "The ''foreigner'', curious in American collections, will be hereby better enabled to make a selection suitable to his own particular fancy." The book concluded with a full-page advertisement offering Marshall's "BOXES of SEEDS, and growing PLANTS, of the FOREST TREES, FLOWERING SHRUBS, &c. of the American United States" <span id="1785_cite"></span>([[#1785|view text]]). Marshall gave copies of the ''Arbustum'' to several men of science, including [[Benjamin Franklin]] <span id="Franklin_Arbustum_cite"></span>([[#Franklin_Arbustum|view text]]) and Sir Joseph Banks <span id="Banks_Arbustum_cite"></span> ([[#Banks_Arbustum|view text]]), and sent copies to foreign businessmen, such as the nursery and seedsman Richard Burnett (fl. 1774-1803) in Richmond, Dublin<ref>Humphry Marshall to Richard Burnett ["Richard B."], December 8, 1788; see also Richard Burnett, letter to Moses Marshall, February 11, 1793, with order for plants and seeds, items 144 and 1509, Scrapbook 5 [Manuscript 77046], Buffington–Marshall papers MS.Coll.168, Chester County Historical Society, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2DJ2ACX8 view on Zotero]. Burnett specialized in bulbs ("flower roots") from Holland, kitchen garden, flower, and grass seeds," and fruit trees at his gardens "opposite the waterfall" in Richmond; see his advertisements in ''Saunders's News-Letter'' (Dublin), 1774-1799. Burnett is listed as a subscriber to William Speechly's ''A Treatise on the Culture of the Vine: Exhibiting New and Advantageous Methods of Propagating, Cultivating, and Training That Plant, So as to Render It Abundantly Fruitful. Together with New Hints on the Formation of Vineyards in England'' (York, England: G. Peacock, 1790), xvii, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2J8G2NJ8 view on Zotero].</ref> and the London merchant Charles Eddy.<ref>Harshberger, 1929: 282; see also 274-75 for additional business correspondents in England, Germany, France, and Holland, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/58HQXQQZ view on Zotero].</ref> Marshall's contributions to American horticulture and botany were recognized during his lifetime by honorary membership in the Philadelphia Society for Promoting Agriculture (1785) and election to the American Philosophical Society (1786).<ref>Samuel Vaughan to Humphry Marshall, April 30, 1785, Darlington, 1849, 555; see also 289, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> In 1848 a public park located a few miles from his house in the village of Marshallton was named Marshall Square Park in his honor <span id="Marshall_Square_cite"></span> ([[#Marshall_Square |view text]]).<ref> A local nurseryman, Paschall Morris, was allowed to grow ornamental plants on the property, and the Chester County botanist Josiah Hoopes, proprietor of one of the nation's largest nurseries, landscaped the grounds, designed the benches and fountains, and established a small arboretum there. See James Jones, ''Made in West Chester: The History of Industry in West Chester, Pennsylvania, 1867 to 1945'' (West Chester, Pa.: Taggart Printing, 2003), 20, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/FQS4XZRM view on Zotero]; Catherine Quillman, "West Chester: Home for Botanists and Gardeners," ''West Chester Patch'', September 8, 2011, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/XZIGN6IP view on Zotero].</ref> In 1913 the Chester County Historical Society held a program of "Exercises in Memory of Humphry Marshall and William Darlington" in the "beautful grove which his [Marshall's] hands planted."<ref>Irwin C. Williams, John Russell Hayes, and John W. Harshburger, ''Exercises in Memory of Humphry Marshall and William Darlington, at Marshallton, Pa.'' (West Chester, Pa.: F.S. Hickman, 1913), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/ZIVIV2PB view on Zotero].</ref> On that occasion a memorial stone was erected in front of the main entrance to the property, with an inscription reading in part, ''The Home and Arboretum of Humphry Marshall, Early American Botanist''.<ref>John W. Harshberger, "The Old Gardens of Pennsylvania, II.--Humphry Marshall’s," ''The Garden Magazine'', 32 (1920): 139, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/IS6WFTZI view on Zotero].</ref> -- ''Robyn Aselson'' ==Texts== *<div id="Millikan"></div>Millikan, William, June 10, 1765, letter from New Marlborough, North Carolina, to Humphry Marshall (Ridlon 1907: 636) <ref>Gideon Tibbetts Ridlon, ''History of the Families Millingas and Millanges of Saxony and Normandy'' (Lewiston, Me.: The author, 1907), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/9W8PHBAX view on Zotero].</ref> [[#Millikan_cite|back up to history]] : As to the pine Cones if any Comes to Perfection I shall I believe take Care to send some Or buy Other Seed or plant that I Can procure. As to the Carolina pines I remain at a Loss about it yet,— there is a flower that Resembles the Garding pink but I am Doubtfull Whether it is the Right." * Fothergill, John, March 2, 1767, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 495)<ref name="Darlington">Darlington, 1849, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/TKNVQG76 view on Zotero].</ref> : "I received thy kind letter, as well as the box of seeds, and the duplicate it contained. I think myself much indebted to thee, and shall endeavour, as occasions may offer, to show that I am not insensible of thy kindness, nor ungrateful. I knew not whether anything would be more acceptable to a botanist, than [Philip] MILLER'S ''Gardeners Dictionary'', which I hope thou will receive with this; and if thou art possessed of one before, dispose of it, and accept the produce as an acknowledgment for thy kindness.<p></p> : "As it may suit thy other concerns, I should be glad if thou would proceed to collect the seeds of other American shrubs and plants, as they fall in thy way; and if thou meets with any curious plant or shrub, transplant it at a proper time into thy garden, let it grow there a year or two; it may then be taken up in autumn, its roots wrapped in a little moss, and laid in a coarse box, just made close enough to keep out mice, but not to exclude the air.<p></p> : "If thou knows of any plant possessed of particular virtues, and that is known by experience to be useful in the cure of diseases, this I should be glad to have in particular, both the parts used, and seeds of the same." *Fothergill, John, May 18, 1767, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington, 1849: 497)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "Thou will see by the inclosed, that it was wrote a considerable time ago, to acknowledge the favour of thy collection of seeds. I was at that time prevented from sending it, and the more discouraged, as I could not get MILLER'S ''Gardener's Dictionary'', which is still out of print. I have sent, however, an abridgment of this work, not long since published, which I hope will prove acceptable; though this is not intended as a compensation for thy trouble, but merely as an acknowledgment.<p></p> : "If thou will continue thy farther care in collecting American seeds, and inform me in what manner I can, with most advantage to thyself, compensate thy care and labour, it will be an additional satisfaction." * Fothergill, John, October 29, 1768, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 497-98)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Fothergill_1768"></div>[[#Fothergill_1768_cite|back up to history]] : "I am greatly obliged to thee for several parcels of curious seeds, birds, and insects. I...have been searching, in vain, for...the list of books thou mentioned as being acceptable to thee.<p></p> : "I have sent by our friend, John Hunt, who is returning to Pennsylvania, a small pocket-glass for viewing flowers, and ten guineas in consideration of thy time and trouble, in collecting these things for me.....<p></p> : "As it may fall in thy way, I should be glad thou would continue thy care in collecting for me such seeds and plants as I have not hitherto received from thee; and I think it would be worth while to sow a part of all the seeds thou gathers, in thy own garden, or some little convenient spot provided for the purpose. There are many curious seeds that lose the property of vegetation by a sea-voyage. The plants thus raised by seed at home, might be removed from the [[bed]] they were sown on, the second autumn, or spring following, into boxes of earth, and sent to us in the spring, so as to arrive here in the third or fourth month, and would then succeed very well.<p></p> : "I doubt not but many of our gardeners would be glad to purchase such boxes, containing assortments of new and curious plants, at a considerable price, and sufficient to pay for the care and pains in raising them.<p></p> : "There is a curious water plant, the Colocasia, that grows in some deep waters in the Jerseys, perhaps in your province likewise.... I should be glad thou would endeavour to send some both ways [wrapped in moss and put in tub of mud]; and the ripe seeds likewise, put into a wide-mouthed bottle filled with mud, and covered over with leather.<p></p> : "There is a kind of Dogwood, whose calyx is its greatest beauty; it chiefly grows in Virginia, whether with you I know not. I want a few plants of it." * Fothergill, John, January 25, 1769, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 499-500)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "Before this time I hope thou hast received a pretty long letter by our friend JOHN HUNT, to whose care I also committed ten guineas, and a small glass for viewing the flowers of plants.<p></p> : "I have just received thy last collection of seeds, and the box of plants that accompanied it; both were very acceptable, and the plants came in as good condition as possible.<p></p> : "By this opportunity I have sent two glasses of the value thou desires; and if these are not satisfactory, either in size or shape, please to dispose of them, and give me proper dimensions, and I will take care that they shall be sent. In respect to the seeds and plants to be sent in future, please to keep this general order in view, viz.: To send me any new plant that occurs to thee, that thou hast not sent to me before; and of the more curious flowering plants or shrubs, I shall always be glad to receive duplicates of the plants, when occasion offers. The ''Magnolias'', ''Kalmias'', ''Rhododendrons'', &c, are always acceptable....<p></p> : "Please to remember to raise a few of all the curious plants whose seeds occur to thee, and send here, and some of the seeds likewise, together with any account thou can collect of their real virtues and uses.<p></p> : "I believe [[William Bartram|JOHN BARTRAM'S son]] had directions from me, through our late friend, [[Peter Collinson|P. COLLINSON]], to make me a collection of ''drawings'', together with an account of all your ''land Tortoises''. If, therefore, anything upon this subject occurs to thee, or thou meets with any new kind, please to send them to him.<p></p> : "It is very admirable that you abound with many plants, many animals, altogether unknown in other parts of the globe, not dissimilar in temperature. ''Golden rods'', ''Asters'', ''Lychnoideas'', ''Sunflowers'', you have more than all the world besides. ''Tortoises'', I think, likewise, and some other animals, are peculiarly abundant with you." *Fothergill, John, March 15, 1770, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 501-02)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "[[Benjamin Franklin|Dr. FRANKLIN]] will send all the instruments thou requests, for which I shall pay him, cheerfully. Some of the books thou desires are, at present, out of print; but I shall get and send the rest as soon as I can....<p></p> : "I doubt not but you have many curious herbaceous plants yet unnoticed: struck with the greater objects of shrubs and trees, these humbler ones have been overlooked. Get a complete collection of these into some corner of thy garden, and send us a few roots, as thou art able to propagate them. There are few trees in your parts, and not many shrubs, which we have not in our gardens. We have many ''herbaceous'' plants, likewise; but I dare say, a very small number of those that are natives of your parts of America. Look carefully after some ''Ferns'' for me; as also ''bulbous'' plants, as they flower early, for the most part: and all sweet-scented or showy flowers, or such as are of known efficacy in the cure of some diseases. <p></p> : "Thy account of the long-lived ''Tortoise'' is very agreeable; and I am much obliged to thy correspondent, [[William Bartram|BARTRAM]], for some curious drawings. He has a very good hand; and I shall be glad to receive from him all his works, and satisfy him for his trouble, when he informs me how much I am indebted to him." *[[Benjamin Franklin|Franklin, Benjamin]], March 18, 1770, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (1973: 17: 110)<ref name ="Franklin_1973">Franklin, 1973, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/C75RBUW5 view on Zotero]</ref> : "Immediately on the Receipt of your Letter, I ordered a Reflecting Telescope for you which was made accordingly. Dr. Fothergill had since desired me to add a Microscope and Thermometer, and will pay for the whole....<p></p> : "I thank you for the Seeds, with which I have oblig’d some curious Friends." * Fothergill, John, February 11, 1771, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 504)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "As I have now got most of the common American plants in plenty, I would not give thee the trouble of sending more seeds or plants, of the kinds I have received from thee, except such as I may hereafter desire to make up for my defects. Any new kinds, either plants or seeds, will be very acceptable." * [[Benjamin Franklin|Franklin, Benjamin]], April 22, 1771, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (1974: 18: 82)<ref name="Franklin">Franklin, 1974, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/2ZC3QI4R view on Zotero].</ref> : "I am much obliged by your kind present of curious seeds. They were welcome gifts to some of my friends." * Fothergill, John, April 23, 1771, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 505-06)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "In the insect box I have put up a little tract, tending to show in what manner ''plants'' may be best conveyed to Europe, and ''insects'' collected. There is, likewise, a small Botanical Dictionary, and an introduction to a translation of some of [[Carl Linneaus|LINNAEUS'S]] works, which I thought would not be wholly useless to thee, or unacceptable.<p></p> : "If thou wants any further helps, that I can give thee, let me know, and I shall supply them as far as I can.<p></p> : "I am not yet in possession of a living root of your great Water Lily, or ''Colocasia''. I could wish to have a large one taken up in autumn, well wrapped up in moss, and sent as early as may be convenient, or else soon in the spring... <p></p> : "I am now in possession of the common North American plants; but there are new discoveries made every day. Early spring flowers of any kind, or plants or shrubs that are either useful or curious in their appearance, will be acceptable; and I shall not value the things I receive merely by their quantity, but their worth, when viewed in the light I have described. A curious ''Fern'' is as acceptable to me as the most showy plant....<p></p> : "I am economist enough to save the covers of my letters, instead of throwing them into the fire. I give them to my gardener to wrap his seeds in; some of them I have thrust into the empty box, for the like purpose.<p></p> : "If I should omit sending thee the future translations of [[Carl Linnaeus|LINNAEUS'S]] work, put me in mind of it." * Marshall, Humphry, November 27, 1771, letter to [[Benjamin Franklin]] (1974: 18: 255-56)<ref name="Franklin"></ref> <div id="Franklin"></div>[[#Franklin_cite|back up to history]] : “I have also Sent thee a small Box of Seeds that I had Left after packing a few for Dr. Fothergill but I was in So much hast that I omitted Drawing a list of them. They are Chiefly Lapt up in paper and the Name wrote on With my pencil. My Book of observation on the Sun is Like Wise in the Box. And as thou Signifies it Would be some Pleasure to thee to Serve me in Some Small matters I Should take it kind of thee and as a favour if itt Should lay in thy Way to promote a corrispon[dence] between me and Some of the Seeds men or Nursery men in and about London or any Country Gentlemen that is Curious in Making Collections of our American Vegetables or Simples as I am Pretty Well acquainted With the most Sorts that Grows in our Parts of the Country having been in the practice of Collecting a few Seeds for this many years for my Cousin John Bartram, and Within this four or five Years have Sent Some Boxes of plants and Seeds to Dr. Fothergill; I think I Could afford to Collect Boxes of Young plants of the most of our Common trees and Shrubs as Well as Seeds at a little Lower rate than they are Commonly Done for, if thou Should meet With any Such Gentlemen that Should have a mind to try me for a season or two, and they Would Please to Send their orders, I Should Endeavour to Comply With them.<p></p> : "Be Pleased to favour me So much after thou hast opened and perused My book of observations to present them to the royall Society in My Name." * Parke, Thomas, July 5, 1772, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 525)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Parke"></div> [[#Parke_cite|back up to history]] : "I have taken some pains to oblige thee, in endeavouring to recommend thee to some seedsmen, &c., in England; but fear I have had but poor success, as yet. I shall, however, continue to make inquiry, and if any should choose to employ thee, I shall immediately acquaint thee." * Fothergill, John, November 1772, letter from Cheshire to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 508-10 <ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Fothergill_1772"></div> [[#Fothergill_1772_cite|back up to history]] : "We save all the earth, and even the moss, from America, throw it upon some vacant [[border]], and cover it with a little earth, that even if a few casual seeds should be in it, we may save them.<p></p> : "Our spring was late and unfriendly to plants, so that many were but just showing themselves above ground when I came away (about two months ago); but my gardener writes to me, that they are in a very prosperous condition, and some never seen in England before. Under a north wall, I have a good border, made up of that kind of rich black turf-like soil, mixed with some sand, in which I find most part of the American plants thrive best.... It is acknowledged by the ablest botanists we have, that there is not a richer bit of ground, in curious American plants, in Great Britain: and for many of the most curious, I am obliged to thy diligence and care.... I have an Umbrella Tree, above twenty feet high, that flowers with me abundantly, every spring. The small ''Magnolia'', likewise, flowers with me finely. I have a little wilderness, which, when I bought the premises, was full of old Yew trees, Laurels, and weeds. I had it cleared, well dug, and took up many trees, but left others standing for shelter. Among these I have planted ''Kalmias'', ''Azaleas'', all the ''Magnolias'', and most other hardy American shrubs. It is not quite eight years since I made a beginning; so that my plants must be considered but as young ones....<p></p> : "Amongst the rest of the plants, which thou had sent me, was the ''Claytonia'', of which there is not, I believe, another plant in England: a new species of ''Serapion''; and a most curious ''Adianrum''. Other things will show themselves, I doubt not, to both our satisfaction....<p></p> : "If the ships are not all sailed for your port, I propose to send some books by them, which I hope may prove acceptable. And in the mean time, I shall be glad thou may now and then be picking up one little addition or another, to the stock of plants thou hast already furnished me with.<p></p> : "The ''Tetragonotheca'', a native of your Province, but known chiefly, I believe, to [[JOHN BARTRAM|John Bartram]], is no longer in England. I write to him by this opportunity, to request a root or two, if he can procure them, or a few seeds. If they fall in thy way, please to add them to the rest. I had a plant of the great American ''Nymphaea'' [''Nelumbium''], from W. YOUNG. It put out leaves, and the appearance of a flower; but did not flourish. I should be glad of another root, if it could be easily obtained....<p></p> : "I know not whether [[John Bartram|J. BARTRAM]] or any of his family continue to send over boxes of seeds as usual. He collected them with much care, and they mostly gave satisfaction. W. YOUNG has been very diligent, but has glutted the market with many common things; as the ''Tulip trees'', ''Robinias'', and the like. But, contrary to my opinion, he put them into the hands of a person who, to make the most of them, bought up, I am told, all the old American seeds that were in the hands of the seedsmen here, and mixed them with a few of W. YOUNG'S, to increase the quantity. Being old and effete, they did not come up; and have thereby injured his reputation. I am sorry for him; have endeavoured to help him; but he is not discreet." * Fothergill, John, February 6, 1773, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 510-11) <ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I must desire thee still to proceed in thy vegetable researches, as it falls in thy way.... ''Bulbous roots'' of all kinds are easily conveyed. The ''Orchis'', likewise, may be easily sent.... Don't forget the ''Fern'' tribe. This is a very pleasing part of the creation.<p></p> : "I have sent the second part of [[Carl Linnaeus|LINNNAEUS]] and shall not omit the rest, as they are published. I have also sent a few numbers (all that are yet published), of a very useful work for young botanists, now carrying on here. There are three plates to each plant, and one sheet of description. The coloured plates make the price high; and the whole, when finished, will come to upwards of 15 guineas. These will not be half the money; and in respect to use, are as valuable as the whole. I shall continue to send them to thee, as they come out, which is very slowly....<p></p> : "We have got the true ''Tea Plant'', at length, in England. We are endeavouring to propagate it, and hope we shall succeed, not to as to raise it as a commodity, but merely, in this country, as a curious article. It would thrive in Virginia and Maryland extremely well. I propose to send thee a pretty good account of it, wrote by an acquaintance of mine." * [[Franklin, Benjamin]], February 14, 1773, letter to Benjamin Marshall (1976: 20: 71) <ref>Benjamin Franklin, ''The Papers of Benjamin Franklin'', ed. William B. Willcox, 47 vols. (New Haven and London: Yale University Press, 1976), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/USJZRFF8 view on Zotero].</ref> : "I received the box of seeds you were so good as to send me, the beginning of last year, with your Observations on the Spots of the Sun. The seeds I distributed among some of my friends who are curious: please to accept my thankful acknowledgments for them.....<p></p> : <div id="gentelman"></div>"As to procuring you a Correspondence with some ingenious Gentelman here, who is curious, which you desire, I find many who like to have a few Seeds given them, but do not desire large Quantities, most considerable Gardens being now supply’d like Dr. Fothergill’s, with what they chuse to have; and there being Nursery-men now here, who furnish what Particulars are wanted, without the Trouble of a foreign Correspondence and the Vexations at the Customhouse." [[#gentelman_cite|[back up to history]]] * Fothergill, John, June 28, 1774, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 512)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I... am obliged to thee for thy kind intention of looking out for a few more plants for me.<p></p> : "I hope the glasses came safe, and were agreeable to thy orders. I intended them as a compensation for thy endeavours to serve me, and shall readily do what further thou may think needful, as an equivalent. I have sent two more numbers of MILLER'S botanical work; and a treatise on ''Coffee'', with an excellent coloured plate. Nothing more of LINNAEUS'S is yet translated; when it is, I shall not fail to send it.<p></p> : "I shall hope to receive, by the autumn ships, some little addition to my garden, as it may occasionally fall in thy way. I have most of your usual plants; but there are divers still unnoticed. I hope I have a plant of your large ''Nymphaea''; but, for all that, I should be exceedingly glad to have another. If seeds are sent, be kind enough to crack the shells of some of them before they are put into the mud they should be sent in. I find the shells are so hard, that they will not give way to the embryo plant without this aid, at least in this country.<p></p> : "Look carefully after your Ferns. You have a great variety. I have more American ''Ferns'' than most of my acquaintance; but I know you must have more, and various ''Polypodies'', likewise. I am reckoned to have the best collection of North American Plants of any private person in the neighbourhood. I am obliged to thee for many of them." *Fothergill, John, August 23, 1775, letter from Cheshire to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 513-15)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I am much obliged to thee for several very kind letters, and a box of plants, amongst which are some ''new Ferns'', and a few other rare plants. For these, and many others, I am still in thy debt, but, at present, without any opportunity of repaying thee....<p></p> : "At present, I cannot expect anything, as all intercourse between America and Britain will be cut off, and I am afraid for a long time. Be attentive, however, to increase thy collection at home, by putting every rare plant thou meets with in a little garden, and as much like their natural situation, as to shade, dryness or moisture, as possible. For instance, most of the Ferns like shade and moisture; these may be planted on some north border, where the sun shines but little except in the morning; and so of the rest. : "My garden is about five miles from London, warm and sheltered, rather moist than dry; and I have the satisfaction of seeing all North American plants prosper amazingly. There are few gardens in the neighbourhood of London, ''Kew'' excepted, that can show either so large or so healthy a collection....<p></p> : "Many of thy plants are there in good perfection.... <p></p> : "The instruments are all sent by [[Benjamin Franklin|Dr. Franklin]]." * Bond, Thomas, 1779, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Belden 1965: 122)<ref>Belden, 1965, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/VPS998N6 view on Zotero].</ref> <div id="Bond"></div> [[#Bond_cite|back up to history]] : "Knowing you to be a lover of useful knowledge and acquisitions, I take this opportunity...to let you know Mons. Gerard, the French minister, is a gentleman of the same turn.... It is in his power— it is his wish, to improve the useful productions of his new world. He wants our curiosities and novelties; we want his valuable collections from all other parts of the world. This is, therefore, to request you would come forth with me, to make an offer of mutual good offices; and to furnish me with a list of such seeds, vegetables, plants, trees, etc. as this country wants, and what we could give him." * Bond, Thomas, November 3, 1779, letter to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 537)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Gerard"></div> [[#Gerard_cite|back up to history]] : "I received your botanic collection for our friend [the French Minister] Mr. GERARD, which I am certain, from the list, will be a very agreeable present to a man who will not only prize them duly, but will show a grateful acknowledgment for them. They shall be sent to him in your name, with great care, by the first opportunity." * Bond, Thomas, October 26, 1780, letter to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 538)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "Mr. MARBOIS, has apply'd to me in behalf of the Marshal NOAILLES, and the Royal Garden at Paris, to enter into a commerce of exchange of such trees, plants, &c., as would be a mutual advantage and improvement, in the natural productions of Europe and America.<p></p> : "They do not desire botanical curiosities; but such things only as would enrich France, — such as ''Pines'', ''Oaks'', ''Hickories'', ''Poplars'', ''Persimmons'', ''Magnolias'', &c., and wish to have a parcel of the nuts sent as soon as possible—for planting next spring." * Bond, Thomas, November 20, 1780, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 538-39)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "Your two letters and botanic collection came safe to hand; but not being at home, I missed a wished-for opportunity of...sending the list of seeds which our new correspondents Desire to have sent them.... I think it would be best for you to come up yourself, and hear what Proposals the Minister of France and Mr. MARBOIS have further to make; the catalogue being very large, and will give you much trouble to collect.<p></p> : "I perceive by your last letter, 'tis your inclination to send this box to our former friend, Mr. GERARD, on the generous plan of reciprocal correspondency. This I highly approve, and shall ship it this week; and make no doubt he will make a very useful exchange for us and the public." * Bond, Thomas, December 2, 1780, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 539)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I received last night your letter and box, which I shall inform the Chevalier of, and know his pleasure about it. The collection, though small, is valuable and curious. I wish to keep up a correspondency in Europe, on a small scale, and solely with a view of furnishing each country, reciprocally, with such things as may be useful. This I hope you will enable me to do. As the other is a very large affair, and will cost you much trouble, you ought to be well paid for it. I had not time to translate the direction, about the manner of preserving the seeds: you must, therefore— when you have perused it— send it again; or rather bring it and I will introduce you to the Minister." * <div id="king"></div>Bond, Thomas, March 16, 1781, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 539)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> [[#king_cite|back up to history]] : "Mr. GERARD...desires we would continue our correspondency. He sent us two boxes of curious seeds.... Another may be expected every day. Mr. WHARTON tells me, the King of France examined every article of our collection, and was extremely pleased with it. This is a very respectful and may be a very useful correspondency. Let us support it with the patriotic spirit it deserves. I have a prospect of adding to it greatly, via Pittsburg." *Lettsom, John Coakley, c. March 1781, letter to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 541) <ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I received thy letters dated the 19th and 29th of October, and November 10th, with some shrubs, and afterwards various seeds.<p></p> : "I think full half the shrubs are now in a thriving state, and many of the seeds are above ground. For these last I am still indebted to thee five guineas.<p></p> : "I have sent thee some books, &c, which I hope will arrive safe, and meet with thy free acceptance." * Bond, Thomas, July 12, 1781, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 540)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "There lately arrived here, after a series of misfortunes, a young Swede gentleman, by name of GUSTAVUS FREDERIC HILLMAN, a regular bred physician, a good naturalist and botanist, and was bred under [[Carl Linnaeus|LINNAEUS]]. He appears to me to be a man worthy and learned, and may be of great use in this country, in many respects. I think he might be of service to your neighbours, as a physician, and to you, in your botanic collections. As you have a large house and small family, if it was not inconvenient to you to let him have lodgings with you, for a short time.... If he has not a favourable answer from you soon, he will be obliged to re-embark for Europe." * Bond, Thomas, August 24, 1781, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 540-41)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I find a letter I wrote you, some time since, concerning Mr. HILLMAN, was not come to hand. He is since engaged in the Pennsylvania Hospital.<p></p> : "Several of the botanic plants GERARD sent, have grown, but the greater part failed. There is one very fine plant of the ''Jalap''. The ''Gentian'' did not grow. The garden seeds mostly grew; some of them are an acquisition. I wrote to Mr. MARTIN, about the seeds you mentioned, but have not received an answer.....<p></p> : "I think it will be best to make another collection for our friend GERARD. I will write to him for more seeds, to be put up more carefully." * Parke, Thomas, September 5, 1782, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 528)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "The bearer, [[William Hamilton|WILLIAM HAMILTON]], Esq., intending to pass through part of Chester County, is desirous of being introduced to my friend MARSHALL'S acquaintance. His knowledge of Botany and Natural History— his taste for cultivating the many curious productions of America, united to his very amiable character— will, I am confident, gain him a welcome reception at Bradford." * Fontana, Abbé Felice, 1783, letter forwarded by George Logan to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 550-51)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "We wish to be informed if we can be supplied with any of the natural productions of America, either by barter for the productions of Italy, or at a moderate price.<p></p> : "Quadrupeds, birds, insects, worms or serpents,...minerals, seeds, and plants, — particularly that plant called ''Dionoea muscipula'', which is found in low marshy places in South Carolina. For such articles we shall be willing to pay the customary price, or return the value of them in such plants as we are in possession of; a catalogue of which we now send you.<p></p> : " If any gentlemen of the Philosophical Society of Philadelphia are willing to enter on such a friendly intercourse with the Royal Museum of the Grand Duke, they will please address their letters to ''Monsieur L'Abbé'' FONTANA, ''à Florence''." * Fontana, Abbé Felice, January 16, 1784, letter from Pisa, Italy, to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 552)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Fontana"></div> [[#Fontana_cite|back up to history]] : "It is with a great pleasure that I have received... your letters, and the two boxes of American plants, which you was so good to forward to us; which came almost all alive, and hope they will thrive well in our country.... I am not in Florence now; and consequently it is not in my power to send you anything, except few seeds that I shall endeavour to get from the garden of the University, reserving to me self the pleasur to send you something more by the first occasion." * Lettsom, John Coakley, February 28, 1784, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 542-43)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Lettsom"></div> [[#Lettsom_cite|back up to history]] : "Thy very obliging letter, with the present of the seeds, came safe, for which I return many thanks.<p></p> : "I have wrote to Dr. [Thomas] PARKE by this opportunity, and desired him in my name, to make some compensation for thy trouble for the same, and for such as thou choose to send me by the subsequent opportunities.<p></p> : "I have not yet introduced many exotics into my grounds. I have a few ''Magnolias'', ''Kalmias'', and ''Evergreen Oaks''; but, as I have devoted a large space of ground for American shrubs and trees, duplicates will not be disagreeable to me. Seeds I shall take the best care of; but shrubs, and trees growing, fruit-trees, and any others, will be full as acceptable as ''seeds'', where they can be sent but both shall receive a hospitable reception at my villa of ''Grove Hill''.<p></p> : "The major part of Dr. Fothergill's [[hothouse|hot]] and [[greenhouse|green house]] plants I purchased; but I had no Americans, which were in general in his ground; and this leaves me more open to receive duplicates. I should wish to have some little information respecting soil and growth, though ever so short." * [[Moses Marshall|Marshall, Moses]], June 27, 1784, letter from Bedford to Humphry Marshall, (Darlington 1849: 553)<ref name="Darlington">Darlington, 1849 ,</ref> : "These four days past, we have been amongst the Pine Mountains, where we have seen plenty of the Cucumber Trees, Rhododendrons, and Mountain Raspberry [''Rubus odoratus'', L.]: and yesterday, about Juniata, we found broad, willow-leaved Oak [[''Quercus imbricaria'', Mx.?], and red-berried Elder.<p></p> : "In coming along, I have seen many strange plants; but may be chiefly varieties of what we have already. However, I shall gather what seed I can, of any such, or bring the plants." * [[Samuel Vaughan|Vaughan, Samuel]], April 13, 1785, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers">Humphry Marshall Papers, 1785-1792, USDA History Collection, Special Collections, National Agricultural Library, Series X, Manuscripts, Box 10/4, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/NCUEHMJF view on Zotero].</ref> : "I want to send to England a box of plants & seeds as complete as may be.... I have further an order for some particular plants which I have mislaid, shd. I find it shall wish to know from you where I can send it so as to come quickest to you. If convenient shd. like to receive a list of such things as you wd. propose putting up in [illeg.] as also a note of the probable cost. I shall have frequent orders. <p></p> : “I find a mem[orandu]:m. mentioning Cardinal, Blue Scarlet." * Parke, Thomas, April 27, 1785, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 529)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "[[William Hamilton|W. HAMILTON]] has sent a number of curious flowering shrubs and fruit trees, to be transplanted at his seat on the Schuylkill; and his gardener informs me, the most of them are healthy, and appear likely to live.<p></p> : "I have lately received a letter from my friend, Robert Barclay, dated in December last, wherein he requests I would apply to thee to send him a collection of ''seeds'' of such ''herbaceous plants'' as were in thy list of the year 1783. He adds, if they could be sent in March, by some safe conveyance, he should be glad to have them forwarded; but, as his letter did not reach me in time, I expect it will not do to forward them before next fall. However, I leave it to thy better judgment, — and request thee to collect the seeds, and send them when thee thinks the season will be most favourable." * [[Samuel Vaughan|Vaughan, Samuel]], April 30, 1785, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> <div id="Vaughan_Arbustum"></div> [[#Vaughan_Arbustum_cite|back up to history]] : "The day after your departure I laid your Botanical Catalogue before the Society for promoting Agriculture & on friday, before the Philosophical Society, they each were sensible of the merit & utility of the work & wished it might be published, but the present state of their finances, did not authorise them to undertake the publication….<p></p> : “As the work will give much original Botanical Information of the new World, be of public utility, also reputable & serviceable to you, by collecting for the curious I am very anxious for its immediate publication, therefore would venture in behalf of my friends here and in Europe to subscribe for 50 or 60 copies & also use my interest for procuring other subscrips." * [[Samuel Vaughan|Vaughan, Samuel]], May 14, 1785, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> <div id="Vaughan"></div> [[#Vaughan_cite|back up to history]] : “Conformable to your letter of 5 Ins[tant]. I sent an advertisement to the papers & hope it will have the deserved effect, but if not, as I think it calculated to promote Botanical knowledge, hitherto but little attended to in the new world, it shall not want the necessary assistance to carry it on, but this keep to yourself, as it might, if known, injure the subscription. I can by no means approve of its being published in England, as I wish America to have the whole merit & it will be sooner accomplished….<p></p> : “I am now planting trees & shrubs in the [[State House Yard|state house square]], & as I wish to collect there a specimen of every sort in America that will grow in this state, I wish to have your advice & assistance, as soon as convenient." * [[Samuel Vaughan|Vaughan, Samuel]], May 28, 1785, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "As it is my wish to plant in the State-house square specimens of every tree & shrub that grows in the several states on this Continent that will thrive here, I have Inclosed a sketch of such as I have been able to procure since the 7th. of last month, with a list of such others as have occurred to me hitherto, but as I am unacquainted with the vast variety remaining & that you have have turned your thoughts in that line, I have to request & shall be much obliged to you for a list of such as occur to you, with directions in what state or place they are to be had; that I may lay out to procure them to plant in the fall.<p></p> : "Planted in the [[State House Yard|State-house square]]...." [List of 86 plant varieties follows] * Marshall, Humphry, October 4, 1785, letter from West Bradford to John Coakley Lettsom (Darlington 1849: 543-44)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I must acknowledge myself much obliged to thee, for getting my thermometer repaired, and sending me the several books thou hast. But, instead of [[Carl Linnaeus|LINNAEUS'S]] ''Genera Plantarum'', translated into English by COLIN MILNE, thou hast sent the Lichfield publication, which I had sent me before by my friend BARCLAY....<p></p> : "The box is filled up with some other articles, as per catalogue inclosed, being a few seeds, nuts, &c, not dried much— which, if they don't mould, will come over in perfection; and if they do, they may vegetate, perhaps, better than if dried." * <div id="1785"></div>Marshall, Humphry, 1785, Advertisement published in ''Arbustrum Americanum''(pp. viii-ix, 170)<ref>Marshall, 1785, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/MJU57ISS view on Zotero].</ref> [[#1785_cite|back up to history]] : "In this my ''Countrymen'' are presented at one view with a concise description of their own native Forest Trees and Shrubs, as far as hitherto discovered. And those whose fancy may lead to this delightful science, may by a little application, from hence be enabled scientifically to examine and arrange, not only those of the shrubby, but the several and various species of the herbaceous class. The ''foreigner'', curious in American collections, will be hereby better enabled to make a selection suitable to his own particular fancy. If he wishes to cultivate timber for oeconomical purposes, he is here informed of our valuable Forest Trees: if for adorning his [[plantation]] or garden of our different ornamenting flowering shrubs. <p></p> : "ADVERTISEMENT. : "BOXES of SEEDS, and growing PLANTS, of the FOREST TREES, FLOWERING SHRUBS, &c. of the American United States; are made up in the best manner and at a reasonable rate by the Author. All Orders in this line, directed for ''Humphry Marshall'', of Chester County, Pennsylvania; to the Care of Dr. THOMAS PARKE, in Philadelphia, will be carefully and punctually attended to." * Marshall, Humphry, December 5, 1785, letter to [[Benjamin Franklin]] (Darlington 1849: 522-23)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I had it in contemplation to mention to thee for thy approbation, or sentiments thereon, a proposal that I had made, last winter, to my cousin, [[William Bartram|WM. BARTRAM]], and nephew, [[Moses Marshall|Dr. MOSES MARSHALL]], of taking a tour, mostly through the western parts of our United States, in order to make observations, &c, upon the Natural productions of those regions; with a variety of which, hitherto unnoticed, or but imperfectly described, we have reason to believe they abound; which, on consideration, they at that time seemed willing to undertake, and I conceive would be so still, provided they should meet with proper encouragement and support for such a journey; which they judge would be attended with considerable expense, for the transportation of their collections, &c, and for their subsistence during a period of fifteen or eighteen months, or more, which would at least be necessary for the completion of the numerous observations, and objects they would have to make remarks on, and collect. Should such proposals be properly encouraged, I apprehend they would engage to set out early in the spring, and throughout their journey make diligent search and strict observation upon everything within the province of a naturalist; but more especially upon Botany, for the exercise of which there appears, in such a journey, a most extensive field; for, from accounts of our western territories, they are said to abound with varieties of strange trees, shrubs, and plants, no doubt applicable to many valuable purposes in arts or manufactures, and to be replete with various species of earths, stones, salts, inflammable minerals, and metals (the many uses of obtaining a knowledge of which is sufficiently obvious); remarks, experiments, &c, upon every of which they propose making; as also to make collections, and preserve specimens, of everything that may enrich useful science, or amuse the curious naturalist; to the conducement of which, they would willingly receive and observe any reasonable instructions that might facilitate their discoveries, or direct their researches.<p></p> <div id="Franklin_Arbustum"></div> : "I have taken the freedom to mention these proposals to thee knowing that thou was always ready and willing to promote any useful knowledge and science, for the use of mankind; and if, on consideration of the premises, thou should approve thereof, thou may communicate them to the members of the Philosophical Society, or any other set of gentlemen, that would be willing or likely to encourage such an undertaking. Perhaps Congress, or some of the members, might promote their going out with the surveyors, when they lay out the several new states.<p></p> : "I have ordered [[Moses Marshall|my nephew]], the Doctor, to present thee with one of my Catalogues of the Forest Trees of our Thirteen United States; which I hope thou'll accept of, for thy perusal." ([[#Franklin_Arbustum_cite|Back up to history]]) * Dickinson, Mary, June 12, 1786, letter from Wilmington to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 566)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "A relation of mine in England, who is wife to David Barclay, has requested me to send her some seeds of the most curious natural productions of America. I thought I would take the freedom to ask thy assistance, knowing how very curious thee is in this way." * Parke, Thomas, June 18, 1786, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 529)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "A young gentleman being about to sail for London, from whence he intends to go to Edinburgh to finish his medical education, is desirous of taking a box of seeds of the most curious flowering shrubs, &c., to present to the Professor of Botany in that University.... He is willing to pay £5 for the collection, and expects to have a sample of the most curious, particularly of the ''Franklinia''." * Marshall, Humphry, November 14, 1786, letter from West Bradford, Chester County, Pennsylvania to Sir Joseph Banks (Darlington 1849: 560-62)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Banks_Arbustum"></div> : "I received thy favour, dated April the 5th, 1786, in which thou seems desirous of trying an experiment upon the curing the root of ''Ginseng''; for which purpose thou desires that I would procure thee one or two hundred weight of the fresh root... which requisition I have endeavoured to comply with, but have not been able to procure for thee more than about one hundred weight of the fresh root, and that at a considerable expense; having to employ a young man, a nephew of mine [[Moses Marshall|[Moses Marshall]]], that lives with me, to travel about two hundred miles to the westward, through a dismal mountainous part of our country....<p></p> : "I expect thou'll be willing to pay a reasonable compensation, which would be, at least, an English crown a pound, I should apprehend. But, if thou thinks that too much, be pleased to pay what thou thinks would be a compensation, adequate to the trouble and cost the young doctor hath been at; and I hope, if thou, or any of the members of the Royal Society, should see cause to employ him, or me, in future, that we would endeavour to serve you as reasonable as any other persons; and as my nephew is well versed in the knowledge of Botany, and would gladly be employed in researches in that line, or to explore our western regions in search of minerals, fossils, or inflammables, and objects of History, &c., provided he could meet with proper encouragement, I, therefore, make free to mention something of the kind to thee, that if the Royal Society should have a mind to employ any person, on this side the water, for such purposes, he would be willing to serve them.<p></p> : "I have sent thee one of my pamphlets, entitled the ''American Grove'', and expect thou'll present it to the Royal Society, in my name, if thou thinks it worth their notice and acceptance; as also one for thyself, which I hope will be accepted. ([[#Banks_Arbustum_cite|Back up to history]])<p></p> : "P.S. If the Ginseng is to plant, as I expect it is, it should be planted in a shady situation, and in a rich black mould, or soil: as I have experienced it will not bear our summer heat, without being shaded, — especially in the middle of the day.<p></p> : "But your country not being so hot, perhaps it may bear the heat of the sun with you. However, I should advise a shady situation for it, and rich ground. And if any more should be wanted, perhaps it might be procured some small matter reasonabler than this sent, my nephew having found, in his route, where it grows pretty plenty." * Eddy, Charles, July 18, 1787, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (quoted in Harshberger, 1929: 270)<ref name="Harshberger">Harshberger, 1929, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/58HQXQQZ view on Zotero].</ref> : "I have an idea if [[Moses Marshall|thy Nephew]] could spare the time to come to come to this Country even for a very short time he might find a great Advantage in observing which Plants are the most valuable and scarce here— am told that when the Scarlet Azalea was first introduced here a single plant was sold for £40 St[erlin]g. to a nurseryman for propagation. James Phillips informs me that very few of the American Grove are yet disposed of" * Merian, Samuel, August 10, 1787, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (quoted in Harshberger, 1929: 270)<ref name="Harshberger"></ref> : "A friend of myne living in the country knowing by the American Grove that you can provide with those shrubs and trees therein described desired me to whrite for the annexed plants." * Wistar, Caspar, October 21, 1787, letter to Humphry and [[Moses Marshall]] (Darlington 1849: 568-59)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "With this I send a Treatise on the effects of ''Foxglove'', which I mentioned to friend H. M. when he was last in town. [[Moses Marshall|Dr. M.]] will he pleased to find that he is in possession of a plant of such efficacy, and perhaps will cultivate a greater quantity of it. As the book is in great demand, I wish he would return it by the first opportunity that offers, after he has read it.<p></p> : "If you have any of the plant to spare, I will be much obliged to you for a few leaves of it, and also a few seeds, with the book, when it is returned." * Banks, Joseph, February 6, 1788, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "The Plants of which you have a list...being wanted for Kew Garden his Majesties Botanic institution I have at the desire of Mr. Aiton the gardener undertaken to apply to you for them....<p></p> : "You will contrive to have them ship'd at a reasonable expense & properly take care of their passage as their safe arrival & reasonable price will enable me to recommend you to Custom here." [List of 28 plants follows] * Kramsch, Rev. Samuel, July 2, 1788, letter from Nazareth to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 571-73)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Kramsch"></div> [[#Kramsch_cite|back up to history]] : "I take the liberty, though not personally acquainted, but highly esteemed by your excellent botanical work styled ''Arbustum Americanum'', or American Grove, to trouble you with a few lines....<p></p> : "I am a German by birth.... I came to this country in the year 1783, at the latter end of it. I belong to that Society which is called the United Brethren, or, as they call them here, the Moravians....<p></p> : "As I loved the study of Natural History, and especially Botany, from my childhood, I was very happy...when my call brought me to North America. The first year, I searched, with great care, the country about Bethlehem, to examine new plants I never saw before.... I inquired very often if nobody ever undertook to write a botanical work for this country, a ''Flora Americana'', or the like; but I could not learn of any. But, how glad was I, when I first saw your excellent book advertised. My colleagues in that science, viz., Rev. Mr. HUBNER, the Rev. JACOB VAN VLECK, and Dr. KAMPMAN, each of us, we procured us with it. <p></p> : "I got new feal [zeal?] in Botany, when I came to Nazareth, in searching the country round about. Natural History, and especially Botany, was one of the sciences I should teach here in our boarding-school, or academy; and my young scholars were exceeding glad to see a book in that science also from their native country: and perhaps it is the first place where it is used as a school-book.<p></p> : "But, dear sir, though I am not a native of these states, but a warm friend to them, and because it is my ardent wish that also Natural History, as other sciences, should become more extensive and flourishing, I beg your pardon that I remember here your promise, given at the introduction to the ''American Grove.'' 'The author would have been happy, could he have given also a descriptive catalogue of our native herbaceous plants. At present, circumstances oblige him to confine himself to forest trees and shrubs; however, he has such a work in contemplation should this meet with the encouragement of the public.'<p></p> : "...I think it would be necessary to consider once about the plan, that it may become as useful as possible to the public. I would flatter myself, if you would be incited, through these lines, to consider the matter once more. Perhaps you could hear some or other thought, if you would put once something about this point in a public paper, Columbian Magazine, or American Museum; and perhaps by that channel your learned friends in the United States could lend their accounts, hints, or notes, for public use to you. <p></p> : "Would you do me the favour to inform me where one could get Dr. KALM'S ''Journeys through N. America'', and CLAYTON'S ''Flora Virginica'', it would be greatly obliging to me." * Lettsom, John Coakley, August 10, 1788, letter to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 548)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "The plant described by thee, and designed to honour my name, is a species of ''Polygala'', and is, I believe, a new one....<p></p> : "Perhaps thou may send me some plants, at the fall of the leaf; and it is necessary that I should compensate thee; and therefore, I give thee the liberty of drawing upon me for ten pounds sterling.<p></p> : "I wish a healthy plant of Ginseng could be sent with the plants." * Parke, Thomas, October 10, 1788, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 530)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I intended to have sent thee a copy of [Thomas] WALTER'S ''Flora Caroliniana'' but find one is already thy property, by direction of Doctor LETTSOM." * Marshall, Humphry, November 4, 1788, letter to John Coakley Lettsom, (Darlington 1849: 548-49)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "Thine, dated 10th of August, with several books, came safe to hand.<p></p> : "With this, I send a small box of plants the list of contents inclosed which I hope will not prove unacceptable; though there is little of novelty in the collection to recommend it, except the ''Azalea'', which I believe is yet rare.<p></p> : "I had discovered my error, with regard to the small plant sent thee last year, and might sooner have done it, had I been careful. However, it has gone but to thyself, except lately, by the name of ''Polygala'', to SIR JOSEPH BANKS.<p></p> : "The ''Plumed Andromeda'', of BARTRAM, is the ''Cyrilla''. The ''Franklinia'', I believe, is a species of ''Gordonia''.<p></p> : "I am much pleased with WALTER'S ''Flora'', which appears to be well executed. Every addition to botanical knowledge will always prove acceptable." [[File: 2081.jpg|thumb|252px|Fig. 5, William Bartram, ''Franklinia alatamaha'', 1782.]] * Lettsom, John Coakley, February 2, 1789, letter to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 549)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I write now to acknowledge the receipt of thy letter of November last, and to add that yesterday the box was safely landed; and, on a cursory inspection, the plants contained seem healthy. <p></p> : "At the expense of much labour and money, I have brought some fine bog earth on my premises which your countrymen thrive best in; and I hope soon to possess an ample collection of them.<p></p> : "I am obliged to thee for thy intention of increasing my Americans, as opportunity may offer. [John] FRASER, to whom a few of us in London subscribed an annual sum, has not answered our expectations. His ''catalogue'', enclosed, are the seeds and plants of his own property. His subscribers, at least I— had very few indeed."<p></p> * Banks, Sir Joseph, May 6, 1789, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection) <ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> <div id="Banks"></div> [[#Banks_cite|back up to history]] : "Your Box of Plants was received safe & to all appearance in good order. have no doubt that as the spring advances we shall find in it several Plants which will enrich our Botanical knowledge....<p></p> : "The Franklinia is as you conjecture a species of Gordonia a drawing of that Plant sent here by Mr. [[John Bartram|Bartram]] to Mr. Barclay has been compared with specimens; so that no doubt now can remain on that subject. [Fig. 5]<p></p> : "Mr. Aiton has desir'd me to request from you a similar Box of Plants by the next fall for his Majesty's Garden where those of the Last Box are already planted & has given me the under written List of Plants more particularly wanted there...." [list of sixteen plants] * Parke, Thomas, May 18, 1789, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 531)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "R. BARCLAY writes me that he is much pleased with the plants received, which, with [[William Bartram|W. BARTRAM'S]] drawing of the ''Franklinia'', arrived in good order. The botanists in England will not, however, allow it to be properly named. BARCLAY says he shall want some plants from thee in the fall; and wishes to know whether the ''Cranberry plant'' cannot be sent to England, to be propagated." * Parke, Thomas, July 10, 1789, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "I received a few days ago an open Letter for thee ... from Descenet at Paris.... He is very desirous of knowing whether he can depend on having the seeds sent agreeably to his Garden....<p></p> : "I received a Letter from my friend R. Barclay who informs me Aiton the Kings Gardener is about publishing a Catalogue of all the Botanic Collection at Kew— when tis published he promises thee a Copy. RB wishes to have a Box of Cranberry plants as before mentioned." * Kramsch, Rev. Samuel, July 25, 1789, letter from Salem, N.C. to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 573-74)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I pity you extraordinary that you met with so little encouragement for a description of the herbaceous plants, occasioned by the dull sale of the American Grove. I always think some hints, either in the Columbian Magazine, or the American Museum, should encourage this study.<p></p> : "The spirit of home-made manufactories is now happily spread abroad. We begin to look upon everything what might be useful for it. We should now also know that treasures we possess in the United States, concerning vegetables. Proposals should be made in that respect, to get a complete catalogue; and afterwards, we should learn and discover all the use of them.<p></p> : "I botanized hereabouts, as much as time would permit it, and found a great variety of plants between here and my former place.... As soon as time is over for that purpose, I shall sent you the catalogue of all my plants, which I have found here and in Pennsylvania." * Muhlenberg, Rev. Henry, January 18, 1790, letter from Lancaster, Pa. to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 575-76)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Muhlenberg"></div> [[#Muhlenberg_cite|back up to history]] : "I would have answered your kind letter, and have returned my thanks sooner for the shrubs and roots you were pleased to send to me, if I had not waited, though in vain, for an opportunity of sending the ''Viburnum Opulus'' you wanted. I have been all about, and can find none that are small enough. However, I shall try again, in spring, at some other places, where I formerly have seen some.<p></p> : "I have made different excursions this year, after I had the pleasure of seeing you here; and have added greatly to my Flora. If I am not mistaken, I found a great number of your ''Spiraea Hypericifolia'' at the Susquehanna. It blossoms the latter end of July, with a fine yellow flower; but I doubt whether it should not be called ''Hypericum Kalmianum'' or ''prolificum'', as the capsule is very different from ''Spiraea''. When the exemplar you sent to me blossoms, I will be better able to judge.<p></p> : "Your ''Arbustum'' has been translated and reprinted in Germany. I have wrote for several exemplars and expect them this year.<p></p> : "As I know that [[Moses Marshall|your nephew]] has studied physic, I make bold to send him the late edition of Linnaei ''Materia Medica'', and hope the present will be not unacceptable. I have a great many botanical writings, and shall be happy if I can serve you or him in botanical researches, through a loan of them. Pray remember my best respects to him; and tell him how gladly I would embrace an opportunity of a correspondence, which certainly would be an advantage to our botanical studies.<p></p> : "You were pleased to mention to me, that you had an edition of WALTER'S ''Flora Caroliniensis''. If you could spare that work for a few weeks, and send it to Lancaster for my perusal, I should think myself greatly indebted to you. It should be returned with expedition and undamaged....<p></p> : "I shall pass by your house, the latter end of May, on my way to Philadelphia; and then hope to see you, [[Moses Marshall|your nephew]], and your garden. Against that time, I expect to receive a great many of fresh seeds from Germany, of which you shall have whatever may be pleasing." * Karmsch, Rev. Samuel, February 20, 1790, letter from Salem, N.C. to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 574-75)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "When I wrote my last letter to you, I imagined to make good harvest in the fall, concerning seeds, fruits, and the like; but... it was not in my power to bring the list of plants in order, and to copy it for you.<p></p> : "The scarlet blowing ''Azalea'', I shall hardly find living sixty miles distant from the big mountains. For the Physik nut I will inquire." * Banks, Sir Joseph, April 3, 1790, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "The Plants sent by you this year arrived safe & in good condition except that some of the pieces of the root of Violas &c. were so small that I fear we shall not be able to preserve them I should be glad if larger pieces could be sent in future even tho a higher price was charged.... <p></p> : "Enclosed is a List for this year the plants of which I should wish to receive in the autumn about the same time as the last came here as that is the best season for sending the list is forwarded Early as some of the Plants may be to be sought for in the Course of the summer." * Parke, Thomas, April 20, 1790, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 531)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I apply' d to [[John Bartram|J. B]]. for the plants thee mentioned. I could not procure the whole number ordered, but, as a great favour, obtained some of each sort, with a few of some he calls a ''new species'', as per his account inclosed. <p></p> : "Did thee not promise some seeds for Lord SUFFIELD? If a few could be sent him, I think he would be pleased; and as the plants cannot go till the fall, it would manifest an attention to his orders." * [[Hamilton, William]], November 22, 1790, letter from [[The Woodlands]] to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 577)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I was truly sorry that I did not see you when you were last at Philadelphia. I hope, the next time you come down, you will give me a call. If I can tempt you no other way, I promise to show you many plants that you have never yet seen, some of them curious." * Beelen Bertholf, Baron de, October 12, 1791, letter to Humphry Marshall (Gutowski, 1988, 33)<ref>Gutowski, 1988, [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/FEKTNCPT view on Zotero].</ref> : "I am very much oblige to you for the maple and lombardy poplar trees, which you sent forward to me by the negro man." * Banks, Sir Joseph, March 2, 1791, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "I shall be very glad of specimens when you Collect them especially of new or very Rare Plants with such names as you chuse written upon them as they will serve as interpreters between us....<p></p> : "The enclosed leaf grows here from your Plants; but as it does not Flower we have no means of Discovering what it is. I shall thank you if you can spare a specimen of it with the Flower to enclose it to me in a Letter or at least let me know what name it is known by." [List of 33 plants follows] * Banks, Sir Joseph, 1792, letter from London to Humphry Marshall(USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "You Box arrivd as usual safe & in good condition.<p></p> : "I shall be obligd to you for the Following sorts next year on the same terms & anything new you chuse to put among them.... [list of 33 plants follows] : "I am sorry the specimens were in a bad order & so small as I am not able unless they were larger & more carefully dried to ascertain what they have been. The following are all the characters I have been able to make.... [list of plants follows] : "I heartily wish you success in your undertakings & shall be happy when in my power to recommend you to Custom here be in other manner serviceable to you." * Parke, Thomas, October 9, 1792, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (USDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "I have just now obtained from John Bartram a Box of Plants agreeably to thy request. To make up for some, contained in thy list, I find he has added considerably to the number requested in the Order given him....<p></p> : "The Ships...are expected to sail next Seventh day the 13th Inst. by which time I shou'd like to have the Boxes for P. Bond & Thornton.<p></p> : [Invoice and receipt enclosed with letter] "Box containing growing Roots of curious Trees Shrubs & Herbacious Plants [List of 45 varieties follows]<p></p> : "1 Case growing Roots of American Trees Shrubs & c." * Banks, Sir Joseph, August 28, 1793, letter from London to Humphry Marshall (UDSDA History Collection)<ref name="Humphry Marshall Papers"> </ref> : "The Baron Itzenplitz who writes to you with this Letter is a particular Friend of mine & has opened a Correspondence with you at my desire you will find him a man of probity in his dealings on whom you may fully depend a Paymaster in whatever he may order from you & I should think it probable if you oblige him that he may have it in his Power to recommend you to much business in Germany." * Parke, Thomas, April 29, 1795, letter from Philadelphia to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 531-32)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "Sir JOHN MENZIES wishes to improve his grounds, in Scotland, by mixing such of the American ''forest trees'' with the native Pines of Great Britain, as are likely to agree with the soil and climate; and desires a collection of such trees as can be got in Pennsylvania, or rather, that an assortment of seeds may be sent him by the first opportunity. He also wishes a small assortment of apples, pears, and peaches, of the best grafted or inoculated kinds, in trees of two or three years old." * [[Dickinson, John]], October 29, 1796, letter from Wilmington to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 566-67)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : Dr. DANIEL BANCROFT having a demand, from Europe, for some samples in Natural History, described in thy book, wishes thy acquaintance.<p></p> : "I therefore beg leave thus to introduce him; being well assured it will give thee pleasure to pay attention to a gentleman engaged in such pursuits, as well as to serve our native land, by rendering the products, with which it is so eminently blessed, more known in other parts of the world; an office that perhaps may communicate benefits to distant regions, and generations yet unborn." *Dickinson, John, November 1, 1796, letter to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 567)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "ARCHIBALD HAMILTON ROWAN, for whom I have a particular esteem, has been requested by his excellent wife, from whom he is so unhappily banished, to send her a collection of American seeds; and it will afford me a great deal of pleasure, if I can assist him in making it.<p></p> : "I understand that the seeds intended are those of flowers and shrubs, but chiefly the latter, with some few seeds of trees.<p></p> : "If thou or [[Moses Marshall|the Doctor]] will be so kind as to give directions for my being supplied with a collection to the amount of ten or fifteen dollars, it will be regarded as a great favour....<p></p> : "The collection will be the more valuable, if the properest names are given, and the seasons for planting mentioned." * [[Hamilton, William]], November 23, 1796, letter from [[The Woodlands]] to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 578)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> <div id="Hamilton"></div> [[#Hamilton_cite|back up to history]] : "I am much obliged to you for the seeds you were so good as to send me, of the ''Pavia'', and of the ''Podophyllum'' or ''Jeffersonia''.<p></p> : "When you were last here it was so late, and you were of course so much hurried, as to prevent your deriving any satisfaction in viewing my exotics. I hope when you come next to Philadelphia, that you will allot one whole day, at least, for [[The Woodlands|the ''Woodlands'']]. It will not only give me real pleasure to have your company, but I am persuaded it will afford some amusement to yourself.<p></p> : "Your nephew [[Moses Marshall|[Moses Marshall]]] did me the favour of calling, the other day; but he, too, was in a hurry, and had little opportunity of satisfying his curiosity. I flatter myself, however, that during his short stay he saw enough to induce him to repeat his visit. The sooner this happens, the more agreeable it will be to me.<p></p> : "When I was at your house, a year ago, I observed several matters in the gardening way, different from any in my possession. Being desirous to make my collection as general as possible, I beg to know if you have, by layers, or any other mode, sufficiently increased any of the following kinds so as to be able, with convenience, to spare a plant of each of them, viz.: — ''Ledum palustre'', ''Carolina Rhamnus'', ''Azalea coccinea'', ''Mimosa Intsia'', and ''Laurus Borbonia''. Any of them would be agreeable to me; as also would be a plant, or seeds ''Hippophae Canadensis'', ''Aralia hispida'', ''Spiraea nova'' from the western country; ''Tussilago Petasites'', ''Polymnia tetragonotheca'', ''Hydrophyllum Canadense'', ''H. Virginicum'', ''Polygala Senega'', ''P. biflora'', ''Napoea scabra dioica'', ''Talinum'', a nondescript ''Sedum'' from the west, somewhat like the ''Telephium'', two kinds of a genus supposed, by [[Moses Marshall|Dr. MARSHALL]], to be between ''Uvularia'' and ''Convallaria'' [probably the ''Streptopus'', of [[André Michaux|MICHAUX]], which the MARSHALLS proposed to call ''Bartonia''], and ''Rubia Tinctorum''. I should also be obliged to you for a few seeds of your ''Calycanthus'', ''Spigelia Marilandica'', ''Tormentil'' from Italy, and two of your ''Oaks'' with ovate entire leaves." * [[Hamilton, William]], May 3, 1799, letter from [[The Woodlands]] to Humphry Marshall (Darlington 1849: 579-80)<ref name="Darlington"></ref> : "I have not until this time been able to comply with my promise of sending you a Tea Tree.<p></p> : "I now take the opportunity of forwarding you... a very healthy one, as well as several of other kinds, which I believe are not already in your collection; together with a small parcel of seeds....<p></p> : "Should anything else, in my possession, occur to you as a desirable addition to the variety in your garden, I beg you will inform me. You may be assured, whatever it is, if I have two of the kind, you will be welcome to one. Sensible as I am of your kindness and friendship to me, on all occasions, you have a right, and may freely command every service in my power.<p></p> : "Doctor Parke informs me you were lately in Philadelphia. Had it been convenient to you to call at [[The Woodlands|the ''Woodlands'']], I should have had great pleasure in seeing you. I have not heard of [[Moses Marshall|Dr. MARSHALL'S]] having been in this neighbourhood since I was last at ''Bradford''. From the pressing invitation I gave him, I am willing to hope that, in case of his coming to town, he will not forget to give me a call. I beg you will present him with my best respects, and request of him to give me a line of information, as to the ''Menziesia ferruginea'', particularly of its ''vulgar name'', if it has one, where it grows, if he knows the name of any person in its neighbourhood, who is acquainted with it, so, as to direct or show it to any one who may go to look after it.<p></p> : "I intend, next month, to go to Lancaster; and if convenient to me, when there, to spare my George, I have thoughts of sending him to Redstone, for the ''Menziesia'', and ''Podophyllum diphiyllum''. If [[Moses Marshall|Dr. MARSHALL]] knows of any curious and uncommon plants, growing in the neighbourhood with those I have mentioned, I will be obliged to him to give me any intelligence by which he may suppose they can be found: or, if he knows any person or persons at Redstone, or Fort Pitt, who are curious in plants, of whom any questions on the subject may be asked, he cannot do me a greater service than by giving me their names and place of abode.<p></p> : "I do not know how your garden may have fared during this truly long and severe winter, which has occasioned the loss of several valuable ones in mine; amongst which are the Wise Briar [probably ''Schrankia uncinata'', Willd.; ''Mimosa Intsia'', Walt.] and ''Hibiscus speciosus'', which I got from you. The plants, also, of ''Podophyllum diphyllum'', which I raised last year, from seeds I received from your kindness, have, I fear, been all destroyed. They have not shown themselves above ground this spring. A tree, too (the only one I had of ''Juglans Pacane'', or Illinois Hickory), which I raised twenty-five years ago from seed, is entirely killed.<p></p> : "In case you have seeds of the kinds named in the list hereto adjoined, I will thank you exceedingly for a few. Any of them which you have not, at present, I beg you will oblige me with them in the ensuing fall. I am very desirous to know if your ''Iva'', or Hog's Fennel, from Carolina, produces seeds. In that case, I must entreat you for a few of them.<p></p> : "You will permit me, also, to remind you of your promise to spare me a plant or two of the ''White Persimmon'', one of ''Azalea coccinea'', and of the sour ''Calycanthus''. If convenient to let me have a plant or two of your ''Stuartia Malachodendron'', and of ''Magnolia acuminata'', you will do me a great favour.<p></p> : "Anything left for me at the toll-gate, on the middle ferry wharf to the care of Mr. TRUEMAN, who constantly attends there, will reach me the same day that it arrives there....<p></p> : "I am very desirous to compare a flower of your Stuartia with J. Bartram's; and will be obliged to you for a good specimen. * [[Frederick Purch|Pursh, Frederick]], 1814, recalling a visit to [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden]] in 1799 (1814: 1: vi)<ref>Frederick Pursh, ''Flora Americae Septentrionalis; Or, a Systematic Arrangement and Description of the Plants of North America'', 2 vols (London: White, Cochrane, & Co., 1814), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/KVNMM4KM view on Zotero].</ref> : "My first object, after my arrival in America, was to form an acquaintance with all those interested in the study of Botany….<p></p> : "I next visited the old established gardens of Mr. Marshall, author of a small "Treatise on the Forest-Trees of North America." This gentleman, though then far advanced in age and deprived of his eye-sight, conducted me personally through his collection of interesting trees and shrubs, pointing out many which were then new to me, which strongly proved his attachment and application to the science in former years, when his vigour of mind and eye-sight were in full power. This establishment, since the death of Mr. Marshall, (which happened a few years ago,) has been, in some respects, kept up by the family but is now very much on the decline, only a few old established trees being left as a memento of what formerly deserved the name of a respectable [[botanic garden]]." * Anonymous, May 10, 1828, history of [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden]], ("Chester County Cabinet of Natural Science", 1828: 302-03<ref>"Chester County Cabinet of Natural Science," [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/4JXNRSNZ view on Zotero].</ref> : "In the year 1774, the late Humphrey [''sic''] Marshall established his [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|''Botanic Garden'', at Marshallton]]: he applied himself very diligently to the improvement of the place, and to the collection of plants, especially such as were indigenous to the United States. The Garden soon obtained a reputation; and for many years before the death of Mr. Marshall, it had become an object of curiosity to men of science: Mr. [[Frederick Pursh]] informs us, that it was the first place of a Botanical character visited by him, after his arrival in America. After the decease of Mr. Humphrey Marshall, in the year 1801, we believe that no improvements were made in the garden, and since the death of Doctor [[Moses Marshall]], in 1813, the Botany of the place seems to have been entirely neglected. But it still exhibits many interesting relics, as pine and fir trees— the willow leaved and English oaks, the Kentucky nickar tree, the buckeye, and several species of magnolia. The trees we have mentioned, with various interesting shrubs and herbaceous plants, which survive the general ruin, are memorials of the interest which was formerly taken in the garden by its venerable founder....<p></p> : "The science of plants was his favourite study, and before he established his [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|botanic garden]], at Marshallton, he had cultivated one on a smaller scale, on the [[plantation]] now occupied by Joshua Marshall. In 1785, he published the ''Arbustum Americanum'', or catalogue of American Forest Trees and Shrubs, in which he was assisted by his nephew, the late Doctor [[Moses Marshall]], who was a botanist of considerable merit, and, at the request of his uncle, had travelled through many of the States, in search of American plants." * Rafinesque, Constantine Samuel, 1836, description of visits to [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden]] in the summer of 1802 and 1804(1836: 15, 22)<ref>Constantine Samuel Rafinesque, ''A Life of Travels in North America and South Europe, or Outlines of the Life, Travels and Researches of C.S. Rafinesque'' (Philadelphia: F. Turner, 1836), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/II9VXNQU view on Zotero].</ref> : "On our return to Germantown I studied all the plants of that locality, describing them all minutely. I went also fishing and hunting, and described the birds, reptiles, fishes, &c. An excursion to Westchester was taken with Col. F. [Forrest] to see [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|MARSHALL'S Botanic garden]], and we returned by Norristown. We visited also [[Bartram Botanic Garden and Nursery|BARTRAM'S Botanic garden]] and several other places.... <p></p> : "I went to see again Mr. Marshall at Westchester, and visited with him the singular magnesian rocks, where alone grow the ''Phemeranthus or Talinum teretifolium''." * [[William Darlington|Darlington, William]], 1837, ''Flora Cestrica'' (1837: 138, 359, 405) <ref>William Darlington, ''Flora Cestrica: An Attempt to Enumerate and Describe the Flowering and Filicoid Plants of Chester County in the State of Pennsylvania. With Brief Notices of Their Properties, and Uses, in Medicine, Domestic and Rural Economy, and the Arts'' (West-Chester, Pa.: The author, 1837), [https://www.zotero.org/groups/54737/items/itemKey/AU239VXT view on Zotero].</ref> : "CAROLINIAN SOLANUM…. This is a vile, pernicious weed; and extremely difficult to subdue, or eradicate. It is believed to have been introduced by the late ''Humphrey'' [sic] ''Marshall'', into his [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|Botanic Garden at Marshallton]], — whence it has spread around the neighborhood; and strongly illustrates the necessity of caution, in the introduction of mere Botanical curiosities into good agricultural districts.<p></p> : "MARRUBIUM-LIKE LEONURUS....This foreign has probably escaped from the [[Botanic Garden]] of the late HUMPHREY [''sic''] MARSHALL, and bids fair to become extensively naturalized in the surrounding country.<p></p> : "M. LUPULINA, L. …. This is an introduced plant; and not generally naturalized in this County. I am not certain that I have observed it, except in the vicinity of the late [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|''Humphrey'' [sic] ''Marshall’s'' Botanic Garden]]." * Resolution of the Town Council of the Borough of West Chester, Pennsylvania, March 13, 1848 (Darlington, 1849: 492-93)<ref name="Darlington"></ref><div id=" Marshall_Square "></div> [[#Marshall_Square _cite|back up to history]] : "Whereas it has been deemed expedient and proper to improve the public [[Square]], on which the upper reservoir connected with the Water-works of the borough is situated, by laying out the same in suitable [[walk]]s, and introducing various ornamental trees and shrubbery: And whereas it will be convenient and necessary to designate the said [[Square]] by some appropriate name; And whereas the late Humphry Marshall of Chester County was one of the earliest and most distinguished horticulturists and botanists of our country, having established the second [[botanic garden]] in this republic; and also prepared and published the first treatise on the forest trees and shrubs of the United States, and diffused a taste for botanical science which entitles his memory to the lasting respect of his countrymen: <p></p> : "Therefore resolved, by the Burgesses and Assistant Burgesses of the Borough of West Chester, in Council assembled, That the public [[Square]], aforesaid, shall for ever hereafter be designated and known by the name of 'The Marshall [[Square]],' in commemoration of the exemplary character, and scientific labours, of our distinguished fellow-citizen, the late Humphry Marshall, of West Bradford Township, Chester County." *<div id="ornamental"></div> [[William Darlington|Darlington, William]], 1849, on Humphry Marshall (1849: 22, 487-88, 490-91)<ref name="Darlington"> </ref> [[#ornamental_cite|back up to history]] : "In 1773, the second [[botanic garden|botanical garden]] within the British provinces of North America, was established by Humphry Marshall, in the township of West Bradford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, at the site of the present village of Marshallton. Humphry, however, had been previously indulging his taste, and employing his leisure time in collecting and cultivating useful and ornamental plants at his paternal residence, near the Brandywine....<p></p> : <div id="greenhouse"></div> "In 1764, it became expedient to enlarge the dwelling in which he resided with his parents. This addition was built of brick; and the entire work of digging and tempering the clay, making and burning the bricks, and building the walls, was performed by Humphry himself. He also erected a [[greenhouse|green-house]], adjoining the dwelling; which was, doubtless, the first [[conservatory]] of the kind ever seen, or thought of, in the county of Chester. [[#greenhouse_cite|[back up to history]]]<p></p> :"The [[Humphry Marshall's Botanic Garden|Botanic Garden, at Marshallton]], was planned and commenced in the year 1773, and soon became the recipient of the most interesting trees and shrubs of our country, together with many curious exotics; and also of a numerous collection of our native herbaceous plants. A large portion of these yet survive, although the garden, from neglect, has become a mere [[wilderness]]; while a number of our noble forest trees, such as Oaks, Pines, and Magnolias(especially the Magnolia acuminata), all planted by the hands of the venerable founder, have now attained to a majestic altitude."<p></p> : "For several years prior to the establishment of the Marshallton Garden, Humphry had been much engaged in collecting native plants and seeds, and shipping them to Europe; but after that event, being aided by his nephew, [[Dr. Moses Marshall]], he greatly extended his operations, and directed his attention with enhanced zeal and energy to the business of exploring, and making known abroad, the vegetable treasures of these United States. The present generation of botanists have but an imperfect idea of the services rendered to the science, by the skill and laborious industry of those faithful pioneers; but the letters here given, will show that they contributed largely to the knowledge of American plants.<p></p> : "His sight...was never so entirely lost, but that he could discern the [[walk]]s in his garden, examine his trees, and recognise the localities of his favourite plants. In tracing those [[walk]]s with his friends, pointing out the botanical curiosities, and reciting their history, he took the greatest delight to the last." ==Images== <gallery> Image:2076.jpg|Anonymous, "Upton House near Stratford in Essex," copper engraved plate from ''The Modern Universal British Traveller'' (London: J. Cooke, 1779). Image: 2081.jpg|William Bartram, ''Franklinia alatamaha'', 1782.]] Image:2075.jpg|Title page from Humphry Marshall, ''Arbustrum [''sic''] Americanum'', 1785. Image:2079.jpg|George Samuel after Thomas Medland, ''A South View of a Villa at Grove Hill, Camberwell, Surry'', 1792. Image: 2077.jpg|Thomas S. Sinclair after John T. French, "Prunus Americana," pl. 48 in Thomas Nuttall, ''The North American Sylva'' (Philadelphia: J. Dobson, 1849). </gallery> ==Other Resources== [http://www.amphilsoc.org/exhibits/nature/marshall.htm American Philosophical Society online exhibit on ''Arbustrum Americanum''] [http://quod.lib.umich.edu/c/clementsmss/umich-wcl-M-2549mar?view=text Humphry and Moses Marshall Papers, 1721-1863, University of Michigan] [http://specialcollections.nal.usda.gov/series-x-usda-history-collection-2 Humphry Marshall Papers, 1785-1792, History Collection, National Agricultural Library, United States Department of Agriculture] [http://www2.hsp.org/collections/manuscripts/d/Dreer0175.html Humphry Marshall Papers in the Frederick J. Dreer Autograph Collection, Historical Society of Pennsylvania] ==Notes== <references></references>
Template:Date (view source)
History of Early American Landscape Design contributors, "Humphry Marshall," History of Early American Landscape Design, , https://heald.nga.gov/mediawiki/index.php/Humphry_Marshall (accessed December 7, 2022).
| 109,796 |
Apartment tenants often have lower credit scores than those seeking a mortgage, but landlords still have to assess risk. If your credit score is too low, then more than likely you’ll be facing denial. According to Rentprep.com, the closer a tenant is to a score of 500, the more likely for denial.
How can I get a apartment with bad credit and no cosigner?
Offer the property owner a higher security deposit.
Rent from an individual owner rather than a company.
Provide recommendations from previous landlords.
Bring along statements of good character from friends and employers.
Provide proof of reliable income.
Can you get an apartment with good credit?
Most individuals or companies renting an apartment want credit scores from applicants to be 620 or higher. People with credit scores lower than 620 may indicate a high risk of default on rent owed. You can still rent an apartment with poor credit.
Can you get an apartment with bad credit but good income?
Your credit score plays a huge role in your ability to secure an apartment, so big a role that oftentimes, landlords won’t accept your application if you have bad credit, even if you have a decent income and good references.
What is the lowest credit score to rent an apartment?
Usually, the minimum FICO credit score to rent an apartment falls somewhere between 620 and 650. However, some landlords may be open to scores of 600 or lower, while others may consider 700 to be the lowest qualifying score. Most landlords use FICO credit scores to determine if an applicant qualifies for an apartment.
Can I get an apartment with a 524 credit score?
A 524 credit score is a poor credit score. It makes it very difficult to qualify for credit or even apply for an apartment but it can absolutely be improved.
Can I get an apartment with a 580 credit score?
When you have bad credit, getting an apartment lease becomes difficult because landlords may be hesitant to lend you their property if they are concerned that you may not make your payments. But it also depends on how low on the scale your credit score is, as some landlords consider scores between 580 -630 acceptable.
What is the fastest way to build credit?
Here are some of the fastest ways to increase your credit score:
Clean up your credit report.
Pay down your balance.
Pay twice a month.
Increase your credit limit.
Negotiate outstanding balances.
You might be interested: Quick Answer: How Much Does It Cost To Turn On Electricity In A Apartment?
Is it hard to get approved for an apartment?
In terms of the minimum credit score required to rent an apartment, there’s no hard -and-fast requirements as things can vary by landlord and locale. That said, the average credit score of renters in the U.S. in 2020 was 638, according to a recent RENTCafé analysis.
Which credit score do apartments look at?
“Each landlord is different, but most landlords and property managers look for a credit score above 600,” Fluegge says. FICO® and VantageScore® credit scores typically range from 300 to 850. An applicant with a higher credit score might be considered to have shown a pattern of managing their finances responsibly.
Does credit score affect renting?
Yes. Landlords really do check tenants to see their credit history. Property managers may also screen you and conduct a tenant credit check. If a landlord or property manager wants to carry out a check, then you will need to sign a document in writing that gives your permission for them to see your credit file.
Which credit score do renters look at?
Landlords focus more on your actual credit information rather than deciding rental agreements based on your credit score alone. When credit scores are considered as part of your overall credit information, a score above 670—on a FICO ® Score range of 300 to 850—generally indicates good creditworthiness.
Does applying for apartments hurt your credit?
Applying for an an apartment won’t hurt your credit if there’s no credit check in the process. The application also won’t hurt your credit score if the landlord uses a service that does a soft credit check.
You might be interested: Quick Answer: Rent My Apartment?
Is 600 a good credit score?
Your score falls within the range of scores, from 580 to 669, considered Fair. A 600 FICO® Score is below the average credit score. Approximately 27% of consumers with credit scores in the Fair range are likely to become seriously delinquent in the future.
Can you private rent with bad credit?
Get a family member or friend to be a guarantor Letting agents and landlords will rent properties to you if someone else who does have a good credit history agrees to be your guarantor.
| 4,859 |
After a divorce, there are always big adjustments that families have to navigate. At first, families adjust to living in two single parent households and seeing parents less frequently.
As time passes one or both parents may remarry or move in together with a partner. Step-children or a new baby may be part of the new a family. A newly blended family creates a new set of stresses, roles and responsibilities for parents and children.
Adjustment to these new living conditions can be difficult, especially for adolescents and teens.
Parenting Support
Adjusting to New Family Roles
Family Relationship Issues
Preparation to Blend a Family
Adolescents, in particular, may resent the new role of the step-parent. They may view it as a threat to their relationship with their parents. Or they may even feel jealous of the new relationship or forgotten in the new family. Often anger, resentment or behavior problems emerge in the family as a way to deal with feelings.
Adolescents have few outlets to express their feelings in a healthy way. Having them work with a counselor is a way for them to express their feelings, develop coping skills and work through problem solving to get their needs met and adjust to the family situation.
Parents benefit from counseling, too. Often the different parenting styles conflict in blended families. Couples need to work out acceptable ways to handle these differences. Children need to understand the expectations and consequences for behavior choices. They may need time to adjust to new expectations that were not part of the family relationship in the past.
Dunham Counseling has a number of therapists that work with blended-families and parents. Krista Sherinian LCSW, Ashwini Krishnakumar, LCPC and John Carney, LCSW are all available in Naperville to help. Erin Cluts has years of experience working with families in St. Charles.
| 1,926 |
As we celebrate Easter Sunday this year, Tim looks at the new time that is ushered in with the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Read more
28th March - Roger Cloete
Roger wraps up our Apprentice to Jesus series by looking at the Great Commission: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations.
Read more
21st March - Erold Ferreira
Erold takes us through Psalm 139, looking in to just how much God knows you and loves you.
Read more
Mother's Day
14th March - Emily Rowlands
For Mother's Day this year, we look at the life of a special mother, Mary, the mother of Jesus and explore just what we can learn from her relationship with Jesus.
Read more
7th March - Anthony Jeremy
Are you a thermometer or a thermostat? Are you going to be influenced or are you going to be one who influences others? Pastor Anthony explores this important question today.
Read more
The place where we are
28th February - Rob Forrest
Pastor Rob explores what helped him on his own discovery of Jesus and will be sharing his Why, Who and How of sharing our faith in God.
Read more
Protected
21st February - Kaz Gratton
Who or what are you protected by? We look to Psalm 91 to find that "He is my refuge and my fortress"
Read more
14th February - Tim Rowlands
This Lent we are going to be following a 40-day devotional series together entitled "Apprentice to Jesus". We want to ask the question "Does my life look like that of Jesus and, if not, how do I get there?".
| 1,508 |
Before we get into the particulars take a moment to think about what people do when they go to their mailbox. As soon as they grab their mail most people will quickly glance thru the pile of mail and sort it into two piles. Let’s call this pile A and pile B. All the...
read more
If you need money right now Is there a best time of the week to send out your mailing?
Is there a best time of the week to send out your mailing? This is a question that we get quite often from our clients so we thought it would be a good topic to touch upon. During the summer months we feel it’s always a good idea to send out your mailings on a Friday...
read more
Postcard Marketing – Making it work for you!
With the ever increasing cost of postage, marketing with postcards has been a great way for network marketers and entrepreneurs to reach their target audience. In order for any postcard marketing campaign to be effective lets go over some very important...
| 949 |
Last week I ran into a local reader and subscriber at this blog, who naturally wondered where the heck I’ve been. Sick leave is the answer, I’m still on it, hitting about a 25% attendance rate at everything that counts as normal-life.
What I didn’t know he didn’t know (and therefore other subscribers here may have the same question) is that I’ve also blogged at Patheos, and I resumed writing there this summer. My presence there is erratic, heavy on controversial topics, and exists because never-blogging does not work for me. (I have a second disorder called Can’t Shut Up.)
So if you have a disorder called Can’t Get Enough of Ornery Bloggers, you can subscribe at patheos.com/blogs/jenniferfitz and I can take the edge off.
Otherwise I’m largely offline. My Facebook presence is zero; I do tweet headlines and hit the the “like” button on things, but even when it seems like I’m itching for a fight, I’m really not. You’re certainly welcome to follow me there, @JenFitz_Reads is the active account.
I am doing zero speaking gigs at this time — no phone interviews, no zoom meetings, no radio shows, I’m pretty happy if I hold a conversation at all, with anyone, definitely not booking your parish or diocesan event. But of course you’ve read my book, or at least looked at the cover, and now you just have to have me, right? Nah. Here’s what you need to do:
Work through the book with a small group of picked volunteers from your parish or ministry. There are discussion questions at the end of each chapter, so you don’t need to prep anything.
Highlight the parts you really, really, really want your larger audience to know.
Pick the top three most important parts, and make slides about them.
Now, presto, you have a speaker able to address what is most needed in your situation.
You can always do a second talk on three more points another time. Visiting guest speakers make people feel good? But they don’t cause change. Change happens when individuals who are connected with each other in an enduring manner decide to take action on a single, mutually important goal.
You and your small group of locals who read the book together will know, in a way that neither I nor any other stranger can know, what the top three most pressing concerns for you are today. Bring those three concerns to your audience. Use the book to help you find the words and the explanations to communicate the things you already know but maybe struggled to articulate.
Then: Equip your audience. Maybe that’s just giving the encouragement people need to do what they already wanted to do, but were unsure about. Maybe it means removing obstacles. Maybe it means offering resources at your disposal. I can’t do that for you either. But you can do this.
The How-to Book of Evangelization is not a memoir of my amazing ministry, and it’s not a fool-proof recipe that you can replicate mindlessly. It’s the testimony of thousands of ordinary Catholics just like you who have each identified one area where God was specifically calling, and they made the decision to answer that call.
Like them, the only way for you to learn how to evangelize is to try it. You don’t need a speaker for that. You need an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ in the Catholic faith; you need prayer, fasting, and integrity; and you need to say yes.
That’s it.
The book has lots of information on ways that other Catholics just like you have managed to change lives and bring people closer to God. Evangelization is a skill, just like making friends is a skill: Some people are naturally good at it, most of us benefit from receiving a little mentoring. I profile or quote a number of major players in evangelization today, so if you want some tips on where to find a speaker or resources, dig in.
But even though I love to travel and I love to teach, I’m kinda glad that God’s seen fit to toss me in the closet for a while at just the wrong time. It’s not the wrong time. Me writing the book was about the fact that I care about this topic, I had spent years studying this topic, and I have the ability to write things down. Now that it is written down, you have what you need from me.
Enjoy and God bless.
Reddit
Posted on October 3, 2021 October 3, 2021 by Jennifer FitzPosted in about the blog, Adult books - Catholic, Blorging, Castle News, Catechist Chat, Catholic Topics, CAWOG, Evangelization, Excuse of the Week, Faith, Forming Intentional Disciples, Patience, Q&A, Recommended Reading, vocation postcards
Since this time last MLK day, our nation’s been through an awful lot of civil strife, too much of it violent.
I want to offer some hope.
Here is something I keep finding myself telling my teenagers: You need to understand, this is not normal for our country.
They don’t know. Maybe this is how contentious problems have always been handled. They have, after all, evidence in their history books that the United States has not always been an oasis of non-violence.
But we who are a few years older are recoiling in disbelief at the rage and hostility that has erupted in so many places, and from people we did not expect. Friends. Family members. Colleagues. How did we get to this place?
Today, in memory of one of our nation’s greatest leaders of civil discourse, let me suggest something hopeful: We aren’t too far gone.
Over at the blog of Rod Dreher, with whom I often disagree, I watched the Washington Post’s extensively documented play-by-play of mob-infiltration of the capitol. It answered for me a question I’d been asking myself: Why wasn’t congressional security better prepared for this?
Answer: No one was much expecting it.
Here we are, post-911, post-MLK, post-Floyd . . . a nation that knows threats. We know terrorism, we know corruption, we know lynching, we know rioting, and yet, even with threats detected and reported, even with a massive protest pouring into the nation’s capital on the day the electoral votes were being counted in a highly-contested election for one of the most powerful political posts on the planet, there was clearly no expectation that anyone would break into Congress.
It was so darn easy for the mob to break glass and push their way in because . . . no one ever does that. We are accustomed to massive protests gathering just feet from where Congress meets, and we are used to those protests being just fine.
I can remember my first national March for Life being astonished at just how uncontroversial our reception was. Need to use the restroom? Just dash up the steps into one of the Smithsonian Museums, file through some cursory security, and help yourself. Grab lunch in the cafeteria and take in a little art while you’re at it.
My kids joke about the roving street vendors of DC who tout their stash of MAGA hats one day, March for Women the next. It doesn’t matter what your cause is, here’s a button for it, just two dollars. No one bats an eye at dodgy entrepreneurs shifting political loyalties by the minute, because partisanship is normal, expected, and largely a non-issue.
This peacefulness is evident in the Post‘s assembled video coverage of the capitol insurrection. The police could have begun forcefully pushing away the crowds before they got close to the doors. They didn’t.
You see officers standing at an entry, and the mob is breaking the glass on the door and helping themselves into the building, and the police do not fire. It is not until members of Congress are directly threatened that a single shot is fired.
Despite the deadly violence that did occur, despite the death threats being called out from some in the invading mob, there is a remarkable level of courtesy and restraint between law enforcement officers and invaders. It is as if they recognize the primacy of peace even in a mob insurrection.
+Update: ProPublica has posted extensive video coverage of the insurrection. Law enforcement deserves immense credit for not turning this into a massacre.+
Is that practical? Tactical? Sure. We don’t need to deceive ourselves about the nature of deadly mobs and outnumbered police. We don’t need to brush from memory the genuine, inexcusable violence of this riot or any other. We don’t need to forget that police brutality and corruption remain unsolved problems in our nation.
But also: The only reason the invasion of the capitol unrolled with such odd calm — and likely the reason that the House continued with business as long as it did while the mob poured into the building — is that peaceful partisanship is our norm.
It is not too late to again give that norm pride of place in our national discourse.
Martin Luther King, Jr., the man, was in some ways deeply flawed. Those human faults did not change the truth of his message. When the people you know, flawed, sometimes wrong, hold firm to something that is true and good? That truth and goodness rests on its own merits. You don’t have to reject the message because of the messenger.
In contemplating what good discourse might be, MLK’s example could not be more on point today. Do yourself a favor and get hold of a copy of the Letter from Birmingham Jail. (It’s still under copyright, so I can’t hand it out like Mardi Gras beads. You’ll have to find it yourself, maybe even pay for it.) Read it.
What it is about? It is about not being nice anymore. Not quietly going along with the status quo. It is about speaking up in the face of grave evil. It is about protesting unequivocally in a manner that will upset the people who wish you wouldn’t be such a trouble-maker.
But also: Non-violently.
MLK is our national hero of both protesting injustice fearlessly and doing so peacefully.
His legacy is the reason the capitol was invadable. It is the reason no one anticipated the breaking of that fragile glass line separating Congress from its critics. It is the reason we did not see as much bloodshed as might have been.
It is easy, when people are being nasty and violent, to reject MLK’s legacy. It is easy to say, Well, those vile brutes are destroying all we hold dear, you expect me to just stand there and take it? And when you do that, you make a mockery of the intense suffering and injustice against which MLK fought. Do you think he didn’t know violence? Do you think he didn’t know viciousness and unfettered ignorance?
Like all Christians, Martin Luther King was a sinful man in need of a Savior. And yet: He also gave his life to our nation living out the Christian model of love. He followed the more excellent way.
Refuse to waste that legacy.
Refuse to toss in the garbage our national heritage of peaceful partisanship.
It is possible to speak boldly, protest courageously, persevere resolutely, and in so doing join with all persons of good will in making our nation a land of peace and freedom.
Reddit
Posted on January 18, 2021 January 18, 2021 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Faith, History, It's All Catholic, Mercy, Patience, Politics, Prayer Requests, Purity, Recommended Reading, Self-Sacrifice, Social Issues, the study of history, What Satan HatesTagged Civil Rights, Martin Luther King, MLK, Peace
It’s resolution season, but I want to talk about something deeper and more difficult. Resolutions are good. Less sugar, more sunlight, regular bedtime . . . some of these small changes can bring out a happier, more energetic, more you person, one you hadn’t fully understood was hiding inside. If you’ve resolved to start flossing, your dentist thanks you. Run with it.
But what if the thing you are struggling to let go of is tied to your very identity?
New Year’s resolutions don’t involve identity changes, I hope. If you have said to yourself, “I am a person who binges on junk food, and my very self would be annihilated if I were to limit that behavior to Sundays and solemnities, for that bag of Reese’s cups (the large ones loaded with peanut butter, like the Good Lord intended, not those pathetic minis) are who I am, and I should cease to be the person God created me to be if I didn’t help myself to the snack bowl every hour on the hour . . .” If you have said that to yourself, then I guess you have a situation on your hands, don’t you?
But usually resolutions are more about polishing and refining, bringing into the limelight the person you have already determined is the better you.
What if the change you are struggling with involves an aspect of yourself that feels essential to who you are? What if you examine your life, and discover your besetting sin, the thing that makes you most miserable, the thing you sometimes confess but usually rationalize, what if you discover that you love that sin because you view it as part of your very self?
To let go of that sin would be to lose your life, you fear.
It takes precision surgery to be able to say, “I could still be meticulous and conscientious without being a slave to obsessive anxiety.” Or “I could still be passionate and spontaneous without following my every whim with no regard for what gets lost in the frenzy.” Or “I could still be a firm, authoritative, responsible parent without losing my temper when my children misbehave.”
My only message here is: It’s okay to free yourself from the part of “you” that is destroying your relationships and making you miserable. It’s okay to say goodbye, as many times as it takes, to that aspect of yourself that isn’t about your God-given calling, but in fact is overshadowing and dragging that calling down.
It’s a process. You didn’t get into this jumbled-up identity overnight. Even when you firmly resolve, “I am going to hold onto my talents and passions and spiritual gifts, but I am no longer going to let the vice I’ve been sheltering keep hogging up this space in my soul,” even then, the vice is so strongly planted that it will take years of persistent weeding (or a miraculous healing) to root it out.
So my new year’s wish for you is that, if you have been mistakenly embracing one of your faults as if it were integral to your self, that you’d muster the courage to bid it good riddance. Show it to the door. And when it comes back again and again, insisting it belongs in your heart and you can’t survive without it, kindly tell it you’ve had enough and it needs to move on.
In light of that pep-talk:
(a) If you are a Catholic writer, media personality, or social media conversationalist of any type, amateur or pro, and
(b) if the fault you’ve been confusing for your very identity as a communicator and evangelist is the “charism of being a jerk”, but,
(c) you don’t want to be bitter and angry and obnoxious anymore, then,
(d) please consider joining me and a number of others for a small, free, online retreat-conference being hosted later this month.
It won’t fix you overnight. You’ll probably discover that some of the people in attendance, people like you who don’t want to be nasty online Catholics anymore, but also have no intention of abandoning their passion for communicating the truth and engaging in rousing, high-spirited discussions on controversial topics . . . you’ll probably discover some of your fellow retreatants are people you passionately despise.
And that’s rough, because we’ll be providing opportunities to overcome your bitterness and reconcile with those wrong-headed dunderpuffs who had the nerve to show face at your life-changing retreat.
If you’re feeling brave, please join us.
Reddit
Posted on January 4, 2021 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Castle News, Catechist Chat, Catholic Families, Catholic Topics, CAWOG, Come See Me Talk, Evangelization, Excuse of the Week, Facepalm, Faith, Families, Forming Intentional Disciples, Humility, Mercy, Obedience, Patience, Prayer Requests, Purity, Self-Sacrifice, vocation postcards, What Satan Hates, Writing
SuperHusband got me an early Christmas present, and it’s created a vocational challenge for me.
The gift was a Kindle Paperwhite. I did not anticipate wanting one of these, because I love paper books and dislike reading on machines. But my shelf-builder-in-chief asked if I’d be interested, and after polling my internet friends for advice about e-book readers and doing some math on our ability to physically store the quantities of books we can anticipate coming into my life over the years ahead (because I’m like that) we decided to give it a try.
Wow.
So this machine is not like other digital devices.
A Kindle Paperwhite, I have learned, is good for exactly one thing: Reading books full of words.
It is excellent for that application, which is perfect for me, because I like to read books full of words.
It is no good for picture books, so I will still have some future shelving needs, thanks.
It doesn’t make phone calls, text the kids, tweet hot takes, or surf the internet — all of which make it easier to focus on reading books. Even its relationship with the Kindle Store is tortured at best.
But if what you want to to is send yourself e-books, and then read them efficiently and comfortably any place you go, this little machine is magic. If you are the kind of person who needs — needs — to pack a backpack of books to bring along when you go places, just in case, this machine is a game-changer.
But it completely fails at any other job except being the one thing that it is.
And that, friends, is what I have been thinking about over the past month.
What am I made for?
Another thing SuperHusband and I did this autumn was host a campfire study of Rerum Novarum.
It was a small group (surprise), but it was so, so, so much fun. For me. SuperHusband kinda got into it? But also he got worn out. A couple months of reading and discussing, a paragraph at a time, a 19th century encyclical on applied economic policy . . . it was a little more than he bargained for. It turns out we are not exactly identical to each other in our taste for Sunday evening R&R.
So I could be irritated at him, or I could value who he is a person — someone different from me, which is a godsend when it’s time to make bookshelves, because my carpentry skills leave much to be desired.
Likewise, there’s me to learn how to value. I’m in a transition phase of life. The baby is a freshman in high school, so I’m starting to consider what ought to be next on the horizon, and also I’m constantly evaluating what these final years of kids-at-home should involve for me. In an interesting twist, my kids (ages 14-20) and I are in parallel phases, all of us wondering: What do we with ourselves next?
And we all have to answer some important questions. One of them is: What kind of person was I made to be?
Myself as Buried Treasure
The Kindle was pretty easy to figure out. For one thing, it’s just a machine. It doesn’t grow and breath and change over time. It doesn’t have to discern whether this limitation or that failure is something it needs to rectify, or whether it’s just a part of its programming. Its creators do all that fine-tuning, no cooperation or discernment from the machine required.
Also, the Kindle is marketed. We know it’s meant to be an e-book reader because it says so in the sales hype.
We humans, in contrast, are like mystery-gadgets. Imagine going to Best Buy and pulling down an unmarked box with some kind of computer in it, and you take it home, open the box, look it over, and try to figure out how best to use the thing.
No manual. No labels. You can see its size. You can see whether it has, or doesn’t, various input devices. You can experiment until you figure out how to power it up, and how to keep it charged. (Does it even have a battery, or does it need to always be plugged in?)
Then you have to guess: Does it make phone calls? Does it create spreadsheets? Play music? Would it do those things if we found the right software? If we connected to the right source? If we added a peripheral to assist it?
And if doesn’t do the thing, does it need to be re-charged, does it need to be repaired, or is it just not made for that?
That’s what being human is like. You are custodian of some combination of God-given abilities, talents, and spiritual gifts . . . but what are they? Given your time and place, your friends and family, your collection of external resources . . . what makes you go? What do you excel at, and how should you use that excellence?
What can you do well enough? What can you not do at all?
How do you need to be cared for? What will damage you? What will make you thrive? What will either damage you or make you thrive, depending on proportions and timing?
I call my new machine The Magic Book. As in, “Has anyone seen my magic book?” or “Don’t worry if you’re running late, I’ve got my magic book along, I don’t mind waiting.” A compact, lightweight, waterproof book-that-holds-all-books is magic to me.
Because of the kind of person I am, I can easily reload the magic anytime it runs low by visiting the Free Magic supplier. It’s nice.
But, other than early 20th-century detective novels, the thing I am thinking about lately is this: I am also magic.
I’m made to do amazing things. Some of them I know about. (Example: ability to cause good dinner out of disparate leftovers.) A lot of it I am still trying to understand, because who you are and what you are made for is different at mid-life than it was at twenty.
Indeed, the whole question of What kind of magic am I? is one that is always there for us, because unlike the machine, we are constantly growing and changing, and our tactical purpose — What should I be doing with myself right now? — is constantly shifting.
So you can be like, “I don’t know what to do with myself!” or you can be like, “Hey, look, there’s magic in here! Give me a little time to figure out how it works.”
And that’s where I’ve been lately. Thanks for sticking around.
This is today’s Wikimedia Image of the Day. It’s a panoramic view of penguins on the beach in South Africa, and if penguins aren’t a perfect example of the need for respecting one’s limits and abilities in the discernment process, I don’t know what is. On-theme: Longtime readers will be no more surprised than I was to learn the photo credit is Diego Delso, delso.photo, License CC-BY-SA. Heh.
Reddit
Posted on December 7, 2020 December 7, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Excuse of the Week, Humility, It's All Catholic, Mercy, Modesty, Patience, Social Issues, vocation postcards, What Satan Hates
Today’s topic is not a newsflash, but there might be someone out there who could benefit from hearing it again, this time with a little common-sense consolation thrown in.
So I’ve been running experiments on myself, and can confirm: Custody of the eyes works wonders.
You may recognize the term from chastity talks. For some of you, your introduction to the term was not during a kind of chastity talk you found very edifying; others may have had the opposite experience. Anyhow, we aren’t talking about sex today. Not even one bit. Deep breath.
If you’re new to the term, “custody of the eyes” means taking steps to avoid leading yourself into temptation. It refers specifically to choosing not to look at things that tempt you, but the concept expands to all the senses, physical and otherwise.
What kinds of things, other than sex since we are not talking about sex, might be tempting?
Eating that one kind of chips in the variety pack that your kids weirdly don’t like, even though they are the best flavor, and doing that eating despite the fact that there is no medical evidence your body would benefit, for any reason whatsoever, from eating another such chip again in your life.
Arguing manically with your beloved internet friend who is usually awesome, but happens to be horribly, horribly wrong about something. In your opinion.
Buying that perfect wardrobe item that you do not need because your closet is already full of other good-enough shoes and clothes and hats, ahem, but it’s a really good deal and it is so cute/practical/snazzy/fantabulous, but seriously: You don’t need it, and that money would do more good applied someplace else.
Perhaps you face other temptations as well. They could be temptations to do something that is always sinful under all circumstances, or they could be temptations that are sinful only because of how they affect you personally (example: a calmer spirit might be able to discuss that contentious issue without getting worked up into a frenzy), or they could be temptations that aren’t objectively sinful at all (buying that hat, if it’s part of your responsibly-budgeted splurge fund, and also it’s an awesome hat), but which sabotage your other, better goals.
We aren’t, on that last point, talking today about scrupling, where you obsessively worry that some harmless action is gravely sinful. We’re just saying: For whatever reason you’ve determined that xyz action is not the way you want to live . . . and yet you’re tempted to do it anyway.
Enter one tool to include in your spiritual toolbox: Custody of the eyes.
“Custody of the eyes” means you take steps to change the way you are living in order to not be as tempted as you otherwise might be. In emergency-mode, it means that if you’re walking past the hat store, look the other way. My, what fabulous road work the city is doing this morning!
But you don’t want to live in emergency-mode all the time.
You’ve determined, for good, sound, scientific reasons, that you would be happier and healthier if you did not eat the chips. Not the lousy chips, and not the fabulous flavor of chips that your children weirdly do not eat, even though the manufacturer has so generously included them in the variety pack that is the best price at your local mass-market merchant.
99% of the time, you are able to practice amazing willpower! You walk by the chips, sitting out on the kitchen shelf where your children can easily access their school lunch supplies, and you don’t even think about grabbing just one tiny bag of chips even this once.
Alas, given enough minutes/hours/days/months, you must run the chip-gauntlet 100 times. Your 99% success rate in avoiding temptation is not quite enough.
You don’t need to beat yourself up over this. It’s a tiny bag of chips. You aren’t allergic. They aren’t actually made of poison, despite the inflammatory rhetoric you read on that one healthy-eating website. It’s fine. But why live this way? Why constantly add to your already busy day that mental struggle? You want to eat fewer chips because you are certain you’ll be happier and healthier that way, and yet having to constantly look at the chips and make yourself not eat them isn’t exactly filling you with joy.
You don’t have to choose between those two fates.
You can put the chips in your teenager’s ancient minivan and instruct her to take them to school and give them to her friends — the ones who have the sense to know what the good flavors are, thanks.
Practicing strategic avoidance is life-changing.
When you make small changes to reduce the number of times in a day you have to battle against yourself, you free up so much energy for other efforts.
When you don’t or can’t make those changes — we aren’t in control of the whole world and all that happens around us — you are left working harder to accomplish less.
You are not the supreme ruler.
In your life there are many things you can control. Maybe you can change your route to not walk past the hat store. Maybe you can uninstall the social media app that’s always sucking you into the outrage machine. Maybe you can move the deep freezer with the kids’ ice cream in it out of your new library in the old garage and down the hall to the laundry room you don’t visit nearly so often (sorry kids, I am not your ice cream bank; readers, we’ll discuss my laundry backlog some other time).
But you cannot necessarily always make the change you wish you could.
You might be able to convince your colleagues not to put the snack tray out in the hallway next to your desk, but maybe you can’t.
You might be able to automate some of the social media work you do, but maybe it’s impossible to carry out your career in a communications industry without actually, go figure, communicating with people.
You might be able to drop catalogs into the recycle bin without ever looking at them, but maybe you also have to sometimes purchase necessary items, and you really can’t help that the best vendor also sells hats.
You probably face a mixed bag of struggles. Whether you’re working through serious addictions or just trying to live a somewhat more tranquil life, there is only so much reorganizing of your life that you can do.
Do the amount of temptation-reducing that you can, of course. Be creative. Be willing to take drastic measures if you’re struggling with a danger to your spiritual, emotional, or physical health.
After that? Give yourself credit for the battles that are still left.
Living your life in emergency-mode temptation-fighting is exhausting. If your choice is, for example, paying the bills by going to that job with the perpetual snack tray always sitting out, or serenely sinking into bankruptcy due to unemployment, you have to go do the job. You have to spend all day passing the snack tray and telling yourself no and walking quickly and trying not think about it.
Realistically you are not going to have as much emotional energy for other spiritual activities after you’ve put so much willpower into avoiding the snacks as best you can using the only tool available to you at this time.
Acknowledge it.
Acknowledge that at this time in your life, you are running a spiritual marathon ten hours a day. By fighting the good fight you are getting stronger — even if one time in a hundred you pass the snack table and cave — but you are getting stronger by working out. Just like physical exercise, the spiritual and emotional exercise of resisting temptation is tiring.
Your capacity for that work can grow, but it can’t be instantly expanded to infinity.
So if your circumstances are such that you must constantly battle temptations you can find no way to avoid, applaud yourself for the work you are doing.
And of course, final note for those readers who aren’t presently dealing with this kind of practical struggle . . .
If you have been blessed with a low-temptation lifestyle, avail yourselves of the three pillars of the spiritual exercise regimen: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Otherwise your soul will grow flabby for want of spiritual work.
I was going to find a good hat picture to illustrate this post, but today’s Wikimedia Image of the Day is too beautiful to skip. Photo of horses grazing in Parco Naturale Tre Cime by kallerna, CC 4.0. Click through and scroll down for some related close-ups.
Reddit
Posted on September 17, 2020 September 17, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Catholic Topics, Evil Dictator, Excuse of the Week, Faith, Humility, It's All Catholic, Patience, Purity, Q&A, vocation postcards, What Satan Hates
On Doing Evil that Good May Come of It (TLDR: Don’t)
So here’s something that happened yesterday: A guy who should have known better, a stalwart defender of virtue and reason, posted a video on Twitter of a group of tween girls dancing in an explicitly sexualized manner.
It was a long clip, to my memory (I’m not going to click on it again, so if my memory is faulty, we’re going to have to live with that) beginning with low-grade “this is not something I’d want my daughter doing.” Gradually the girls’ dancing became increasingly erotic, to the point that it definitely transitioned into “yes, this is blatantly, undeniably sexualized near-porn,” and I didn’t continue watching after that.
(The girls’ costumes, I should note, would have been fine as bathing suits, for children playing sharks-and-minnows or jumping off the diving board . . . but no amount of clothing could cause the dance this conservative Christian posted to be any other than erotic.)
Anyhow, that was my two minutes of previewing Cuties, a film I was willing to consider might not be nearly what Netflix promoted it as, and a film that I still suspect was attempting to be a serious entry in the discourse against the hypersexualization of tweens and young teens. I even considered that the video this person-who-should-know-better posted was in fact a deepfake designed to hype up the political divide, though alas with a bit clicking around, the reports from those who viewed the film in its entirety confirm the dance sequence was genuine. IMDB briefly posted a warning, in reference to another scene in the film, the FYI it was technically in violation of US child pornography laws. Yikes.
So. We revisit a very old topic, and if you like, you can scoot on over to the The Junior Moral Theologian’s DIY Kit, where I lay out all the moral issues in more detail. Here I’m just going to repeat myself a bunch of different ways:
You may not do evil that good may come of it.
Having a good intention does not make an evil action a good action.
The fact that something good resulted from an evil act does not make the evil act good.
This is the non-negotiable of any viable ethical system. Might you find yourself in a horrible situation, in which you are forced to choose among several terrible options, and, in your desperation, choose the one with the least-bad outcome? Certainly. It’s a fallen world and in the worst circumstances we might find ourselves doing the unthinkable. It happens.
That does not make the evil action right. It just makes it the thing you did at a time when you didn’t see any other way.
In the case of, say, a Christian commentator with a large following choosing to post erotica, or a secular filmmaker choosing to train and pay young girls to perform that erotica, we are not speaking of desperate persons forced into a corner and struggling to find any way out.
But, and let’s be very clear here, neither of these two is any different from the rest of us.
Both, we can charitably assume, are in fact seeking to accomplish something good. The commentator was seeking to warn audiences that the film in question was morally objectionable. The director was seeking to warn audiences that the sexualization of young girls is a serious problem in our day — and before you scoff at that, I can attest from my viewing of the excerpt that the girls’ faces as they performed absolutely communicated a sense of being lost, of not understanding, of not liking, and yet of feeling like they had to do the thing in order to be approved. The stated artistic goal was accomplished in the scene I saw. The obvious (to you and me) problem, which makes the film unviewable for persons of good will who are duly forewarned, is that the director went about communicating her (valuable) message in a way that was, in fact, harmful to the girls working for her.
In the same way, the commentator who posted erotica in order to warn against erotica was exploiting the victimization of the girls, and also putting erotica in front of his readers, in the name of an otherwise good purpose.
The habit of using evil to do good is absolutely embedded in our culture.
In theory we consider lying (that would be a direct, explicit violation of the Ten Commandments) wrong, but in reality our culture has long categories of lies that are acceptable because they are done with good purposes in mind.
If Catholics are wacko extremists on medical ethics, it’s because our society considers the killing of innocent persons to be only wrong if it’s done for unpopular reasons.
National Public Radio hosted a non-ironic, softball interview on the justification for the violent destruction and theft of the property of innocent persons.
I’d be remiss in this list not to mention the whole justifying of adultery as if the average man or woman just had “no choice” but forsake their vows? And yet people will say that, and think that, in the most banal of circumstances.
Maybe you aren’t guilty of any of these, or at least not lately.
Before you get too convinced you aren’t like those other sinners: I challenge you to try to get through a full week without doing something you know is wrong — even if it’s just a little bit wrong — with the motivation of seeking a higher good.
Sin is like this. For most people, most of the time, sin is not fueled by a desire to do something horrible, it’s fueled by the twisted-up quest to experience something we’re convinced will be good.
“Less evil” is not good.
One of the reasons I expect it was so easy for the director of Mignonnes to justify her decision to pay young girls to perform erotica (and in one case, per IMDB’s original warning to viewers, to expose her breast on film) is that her film was about how normal these behaviors have become.
(FYI for those wondering: The acceptability of pornography is far more entrenched in respectable French society than in the United States. That’s me reporting first hand experiences among the married-with-kids, stalwart-citizen, professional class of the late 1980’s. Not something I read in a book. What I have seen in real homes among people who met every definition of “respectable” in their era.)
The director of the film was not asking the girls to perform something forbidden and illegal (though Netflix should know that the reported frontal-nudity scene is in fact illegal in the US, however award-winning it may be elsewhere). She was asking them to recreate what persons like myself got accused of prudery for objecting to when it appeared at the Super Bowl half-time show this year — albeit in the wholesome USA we have adult women do this to show how “liberated” they are, while the girls from the dance companies, the very best girl-dancers, handpicked to perform on the field on the biggest TV night of the year, look up in adoration. We reserve the actual girl-erotica for dance competitions on other weekends, thanks. So, from the director’s point of view, she was requesting the girls repeat what they already were willing to do, and may well have done before, only this time framed in such a way that viewers would be shocked into realizing just how wrong and destructive it is.
And that’s a shame, because there’s every reason to believe the director was attempting to open a very important conversation on sexual exploitation — just like the commentator who posted the erotica was trying to legitimately warn viewers away from the film that fell so badly short of its mark.
Reddit
Posted on September 11, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Catholic Topics, Children, Facepalm, Families, Humility, It's All Catholic, Mercy, Modesty, Patience, Purity, Rant-o-Rama, Social Issues, Women
What to Expect from a Saint
Over at the blorg yesterday I wrote about how, whatever St. Junipero Serra’s sins might have been, an authentic desire to evangelize is not one of them. Figures I’d say something like that. Today I want to address a deeper question: What are we to think about the problematic behavior of saints and other heroes?
Let’s begin with some foundational principles.
We know that the Christian faith is unchanging, and we know that the moral law is unchanging. Murder is wrong yesterday, today, and tomorrow, forever and ever amen. Jesus Christ is the Savior of humanity yesterday, today, and tomorrow, forever and ever amen. Thus, the first thing we should look for in a saint: The moral and spiritual ideals towards which a saint strives are unchanging ideals.
–> We expect a saint to love Jesus Christ and to practice and proclaim the Catholic faith as best he or she is able.
Saints overcome obstacles, but they aren’t omnipotent.
From our lives, from common sense, and from the historical record, we can know that there are obstacles to living out our Christian ideals.
Some obstacles are internal, such as physical or mental illness. These roadblocks to practicing the faith don’t make us less faithful. What they do is cause us to have to put more effort into loving God, who sees and acknowledges the heart. While some saints may have awe-inspiring external, easily-visible accomplishments to their name, others do not.
Other obstacles are created by our society, our culture, or the people around us. In another era, a saint might have been able to care for orphaned children by simply opening the doors and welcoming those in need. In our time, extensive regulations may prevent an individual, family, or religious association from being legally allowed to provide care.
–> When we look at a saint’s life, we have to realistically assess the resources and opportunities that were available to that person living in that era.
Culture clouds our human thinking.
While the natural law is written on the human heart, we know that human beings are fallen creatures. We are tempted to do what is comfortable and self-serving, and often we let our desire for gratification color our understanding of the Gospel.
Thus it is hard for a saint, or anyone, to overcome his or her weaknesses.
Furthermore, our culture affects our ability even to contemplate what the Gospel might be asking of us. A type of generosity or piety or morality that was encouraged and accepted in one time or place might be rare or nonexistent in another. When a given concept of Christian morality or devotion is simply not on the radar in our own time and place, it is very, very hard to look over the walls of our native culture and consider a better way of living.
I’m hard pressed even to provide an example, because I know that for any specific suggestion I make of an area where modern Americans struggle with recognizing and articulating the faith (and some other cultures did not), my suggestion will be dismissed as “ridiculous” or “extraneous” or “old fashioned” or “obsolete” or something else. We cannot see what lies beyond the walls of our own cultural prison.
–> We can expect a saint to respond freely and generously to those aspects of the faith which were understood and practiced in his or her culture, and to make sincere but not always successful attempts to discern and apply Christian doctrine counter-culturally.
Culture feeds certain types of piety.
In contrast, every culture has its virtues as well. What is often very confounding in the lives of the saints are the examples of virtues that are foreign to our time, but were considered ordinary piety in the saint’s time. Here I will give an example.
In our time, the practice of physical penance is virtually unknown. We allow for the merits of offering up unavoidable suffering, but even that is counter-cultural. One of the great challenges of our time is fighting evils such as abortion and euthanasia, which are fueled by a culturally-driven placing of the avoidance of suffering as the highest good. Even Christians have difficulty understanding why some of the suffering that life brings might, at times, have to be endured when there is no moral way to avoid it.
We do have a limited understanding of the value of physical penance. Specific acts of self-discipline are practiced by the most-rigorous of religious associations, and minor acts of self-denial are encouraged for all Catholics during the penitential season of Lent. However, even there, in our time we always temper any mention of corporal penance with warnings not to overdo it, not to commit self-harm, and so forth. I am absolutely at one with my wider spiritual culture in that regard.
In contrast, in other eras, we see that the benefit of physical penance was considered of greater value than the avoidance of physical harm that might result. Hence we have countless examples of saints and ordinary Catholics and even non-Christians carrying on astonishing displays of self-inflicted or self-allowed suffering that, to our modern mind, are contrary to faith and reason.
What’s going on with that? Shouldn’t the saint have known better?
Keep in mind those cultural walls. When your spiritual culture is telling you that xyz is the greater good . . . if your greatest desire is holiness, you will seek after that good.
–> We can expect saints to be willing to go to extremes to pursue paths of holiness encouraged in their time and place.
Where does this leave us? It leaves us with saints who consistently love Jesus Christ, and everything else is a toss-up. Saints are people who strive for holiness, but that striving is going to be shaped by his or her personal limitations, by cultural boundaries, and by the types of piety and service that are most encouraged in his or her time and place.
Saints can still surprise. We look with special awe at those saints whose lives were wildly counter-cultural, because they stand out not only in their time but in ours.
All the same, some saints can make us uncomfortable with just how wrong they seem. When that happens, there are three questions we should ask:
Is the legacy of this saint the right legacy? Perhaps I’ve been passed a message about this saint that is honestly not what makes this saint an example of holiness.
Is this attribute of the saint just a plain old sin? Every saint recognizes his or her need for the Redeemer. Unless it’s the Blessed Mother we’re talking about, we know for a fact that some of this saint’s actions were sinful.
Is this attribute of the saint a virtue I need to know about? One of the great gifts of the saints is that they allow us to peek over our cultural walls.
What we don’t need to do is be afraid. It’s okay to have weird saints in our spiritual family tree. We are not a religion that worships mortal men. We are a religion that worships Jesus Christ. Allow the Lord to show when and how to learn from this or that saint, and when you need to recognize that so-and-so just isn’t the best spiritual companion for you right now.
Is this person helping you grow in love? Is this person drawing you closer to Jesus Christ? Whether it’s a saint in heaven or someone you know here on earth, those are the qualities we look for in spiritual friendships. It doesn’t matter whether so-and-so is so helpful to your friend or your mom or you favorite priest. Choose to surround yourself with the people who make you a better Christian.
Photo: Crystals of dried Coca-Cola, courtesy of Wikimedia Image of the Day, CC 4.0, by Alexander Klepnev. I was going to settle for a renaissance peoplescape of Heaven, but then there was this. So this is what you get. Probably the best use of Coca-Cola yet.
Reddit
Posted on June 24, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Blorging, Catholic Topics, Evangelization, Faith, Humility, Mercy, Patience, Q&A, Social Issues, the study of history, What Satan Hates
The Conversation You Truly Never Expect to Have with Your Child
I like to think of myself as a parent who is well-informed on the hazards that face teens and young adults. You do what you can, hope for the best, and understand that sometimes your child’s free will is going to force an uncomfortable confrontation. Still, I genuinely never so much as imagined, not even remotely, the conversation my husband and I had to have with our 19-year-old this morning.
He told us what he was planning to do.
We gave him our reasons for why that behavior was no longer acceptable in our home. We observed that his decision affected the safety and well-being of not just himself but his sisters, his parents, his friends, and who knows how many others. I suggested some readily-available, reliable, neutral, third-party, expert sources he could use for making an informed decision about his plan of action.
And then my husband summed it up: “Son, I’m sure your friends are fine people. We respect that you are an adult, and you’re free to make your own decisions. But if you insist on going to Bible study tonight, you’re going to have to find other living arrangements.”
Never thought I’d hear those words.
I quick gave Mr. Boy a long list of alternatives that would allow him to continue hanging with his FOCUS buddies and maintain physical-distance too. I encouraged him with the hope that the US will quickly act to bring about a turning point in our present handling of the pandemic (via expanded testing, ramping up manufacture of protective equipment, etc.) such that we can become more targeted in our isolation practices.
But, at the moment, living amidst an unchecked outbreak, grateful our local hospitals are taking swift action to mitigate the situation, but also knowing that our go-to physician has not a single N-95 mask in her office? We need to be more careful than, on the face of it, one would assume the situation warrants.
That said, if we get to the point where his Bible study friends are Prepare Your Church for COVID compliant, we can talk. Except of course we have a mild cough going around our house. So home it is.
Photo penance: I’ve upgraded my office-in-exile with an open step ladder squeezed between the water heater and the spare fridge to create a place to set my coffee while praying. Yes, I am a chemically-dependent pray-er. Sorry to dash all your illusions about my piety. Here, enjoy this charming video of a stubborn Italian man going out for coffee.
Reddit
Posted on March 24, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Catholic Families, Evangelization, Evil Dictator, Faith, Families, Obedience, Patience, Self-Sacrifice, vocation postcards
View from My Office: Social Distance
As of this morning we’ve got six people working from home in our 2.5 bedroom house — and one them is a child with a cough who’s taken over the master bedroom because she’s in quarantine. Thus, picking back up with our intermittent penance, my office now looks like this:
Photo: Yes, I fled to a corner of our crammed-full “garage”, because it is the one space that no one else wants, and there’s a solid door separating me from the rest of the house. I’m happy about the arrangement:
Photo: Me just finishing up morning prayers in the warm, consoling presence of the water heater, perhaps a little too smug in having stolen the SuperHusband’s folding lawn chair from his exile in the camper (because: we’ve been evicted from our bedroom by the sick child). I need a folding chair, not one of the good lawn chairs from the patio, because I need to be able to clear the emergency exit out the back door of the garage when I’m not using the chair, and we’re not working with the kind of spaciousness that lets you just put the chair somewhere else.
This would be why there’s a construction project in my yard.
At least until everyone starts remembering I can now be found hiding behind crates of books and a table saw in my 16 square feet of personal space, this move is game-changer. I’ve been struggling for the last two years with no office space of my own, and due to construction the SuperHusband has been working from home several days a week all fall, therefore needing during the day the small, cluttered office we previously shared in shifts. Many colleagues can attest that this has not had a winning effect on my productivity.
Hence my one recommendation for those now embarking on the everything-at-home lifestyle: Even if it means setting up your office in a closet or a bathroom or behind stacks of crates in the corner of the garage, get yourself your OWN space.
Think about the work that you do. When SuperHusband works from home, he has two needs. One is the big computer with all the monitors (which I kinda need too, buuuut . . . some office chores are going to have to wait), and the other is the ability to pace around while he conducts phone calls in his booming made-for-the-choir-loft voice. Our shared office is, acoustically, in the same space as our kitchen and living area — in which living area our college student is now going to be doing all his classes online, since the university shut down.
The boy is already a pro at claiming the 11pm-2am shift for getting work done, and since we have all teenagers now, SuperHusband can pace and exclaim on the phone all he wants before noon, the dead aren’t rising unless they absolutely must. Once the kids emerge from their slumber and start needing to do schoolwork, though, we agreed that the Dad is gonna need to go out to the dried-in construction zone and do his phone calls there.
Just as well I cede that space, which I’d been using as a day office when too many people were home and I had a lot of editing to knock out, because it is possible for contractors to keep on keeping on without spreading contagion (not a real touchy-feely profession), so SuperHusband’s planning to take a few vacation days this spring to accelerate construction.
Notes on separating kids during illness: In the past, we didn’t strictly quarantine sick children for cold-type symptoms. We did our best to keep actively ill children out of the kitchen, but beyond that to an extent we accepted the inevitable. With COVID-19, however, the parents decided that if at all possible, we’d like to not have two parents sick at the same time. Yes, our young adults living at home can run things in a pinch — we have two now old enough to wield a power of attorney if it comes to it — but it would be better not to have to lay that much responsibility on them.
For our kids, the decision to make the master bedroom sick-central is victory. Many many years ago we did start strict quarantine for vomiting children. We have the luxury of a second bathroom, and once we began the practice of setting up a camping mattress, portable DVD player, and a collection of easily-bleached toys in the spare bathroom, and insisting ‘lil puker stay put until the coast was clear, we stopped having stomach viruses run through the whole family.
That arrangement is just fine for a clearly-defined illness of short duration; a nasty cough, in contrast, can linger ambiguously for weeks, and COVID-19 is growing notorious for its waxing and waning. So our current exile is thrilled to have her own bedroom for the first time in her life, with private bath, big bed, space for all the Legos on the square of open floor (I insist a path be cleared before delivering room service), and even a sunny window seat on top of a big ol’ storage box.
If our system works, corner of the garage is a small price to pay.
Related Links
The Darwins are blogging about many aspects of pandemic-living, including some pro-tips on homeschooling. If you aren’t already a regular reader, that’s something you need to change in your life.
Looking through my years of homeschool-blogging, here are a few that may be of help:
What Can You Learn from a Homeschool Dropout? Some thoughts on the reality of homeschooling and why it is stressful for some parents, so you don’t feel insane if this isn’t easy for you.
Putting Together a Last-Minute Curriculum Exactly what it sounds like.
Homeschooling While Sick A few things I learned about holding together your child’s education at home when you yourself are not at your best. Since I heard there’s a pandemic and you might catch the thing.
Homeschooling and the Art of Living Together A little encouragement, and it’s a follow-up on the homeschooling-while-sick theme, but maybe helpful in other stressful situations as well.
A Homeschooling Tune-Up for the New Year On how to stay sane homeschooling when quitting is not an option.
Escape the Winter Doldrums with Homeschool Science Some of y’all still have snow.
Summer Sanity: Give the Kids a Checklist Technique you may find helpful for motivating your kids to become independent learners during your forced staycation.
Is it the Book or Is it Me? How to know if your school-at-home is crashing and burning because you need a new curriculum or because you’re doing it wrong.
Four Books for Building Language Arts Skills Personal picks you might find helpful for phonics and spelling. If you’ve got a little one at home (K5-3rd grade), work the reading skills at a developmentally-appropriate level and you’ve done the one thing needed most, academically.
Help! I’m Homeschooling a Six-Year-Old! First grade is my favorite to homeschool, but . . . there’s something you need to know.
Homeschool Planning: You Can’t Do Everything In which I talk you off many, many ledges.
In Defense of Pretty Good Schools You don’t need to be perfect at this.
On the Forming of Young Christians Some philosophy of education.
And finally, Finding Writing Time, Homeschool Mom Edition. Two things to learn from this older post:
No, you really cannot work full time from home and homeschool simultaneously;
Scheduling is everything.
At the time I wrote this one my kids were younger, so the natural flow was kids in the morning, mom-work in the afternoon. With teens, I’d say it’s the other way around. If you’re Simcha Fisher and have it all? The job from home, the morning shift getting littles out the door, the big kids trickling home in the afternoon, the babies hanging around all day, and the dinner on the table? I don’t care if your kids do wear odd mittens and think that’s normal. You’re my hero.
Listen people: You can’t fully-totally-amazingly homeschool and work a full time job from home with no adult help. Childcare is work. Educating people is work. Work is work. There’s no magic. Pandemic season is going to be hard. Drop your expectations. Hold together the absolute minimum and you’ll be ahead of the game.
Reddit
Posted on March 16, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Castle News, CatholicMom.com, Curriculum Reviews, Education, Evil Dictator, Excuse of the Week, Families, Home vs. Away, Homeschooling, Humility, It's All Catholic, Patience, Q&A, Self-Sacrifice, Social Issues, vocation postcards, ways to homeschool, Writing
What More Do Old People Have to Give?
If you have not already seen it, watch this sorrowful video showing the increase in deaths in Bergamo, Italy, since the coronavirus outbreak began. The speaker shows you first a newspaper from mid-Febuary: One and a half pages of obituaries. Typical for the area, apparently. By mid-March, flipping through the paper as the coronavirus epidemic intensifies: Ten pages of obituaries.
Most of these deaths are elderly people. At this writing, my own grandmother is 96 years old, and though now facing what will probably be her final illness, she’s had many long years of healthy retirement. My mom died when our children were ages 0-6, and her mother became very ill with dementia about that same time, so for my children, their experience of “visiting grandma” on my side of the family is long road trips to Florida to see their great-grandmother.
They have many happy memories of playing dominoes and taking Grandma to eat out at local chain restaurants, and listening to her approve and disapprove of various styles and habits. Two years ago there was the never-to-be-forgotten discovery of toy bananas when we all went to Walmart, in which the elder and younger generations ganged up against the mother in the middle in the Great Banana Impulse Buy Debate. (They eventually won, but I exacted my price. Totally worth it.)
It is not unlikely, now, that my grandmother’s final illness will be COVID-19 instead of the slow-moving cancer she’s currently dealing with. “But she was old and sick,” people will say. Well, yes, but we were hoping to see her again in June.
She’s 96. We knew last summer that our visit then might be the last. But what if she were eighty? We’d have lost an entire lifetime of visits for most of the children; none of them would have any but the faintest memory of her. I would have lost nearly two decades of mentoring from a woman whose vocation and outlook on life is so much like my own, and whose differences are like iron sharpening iron (clean your house, Jennifer!). I think I can safely say that her children and other grandchildren and great-great-children feel the same: These last nearly twenty years she has enriched our lives so much, despite “doing nothing.”
Suppose you’re sixty right now. You are looking at retirement soon, you’re tired out, thinking about downsizing, probably dealing with some health problems, and maybe beginning to feel like you haven’t got much more to offer the world. And yet, if you don’t die of COVID-19, you may yet make it to eighty. During which time:
You could grandparent a child (your own or a neighbor’s) from birth to adulthood.
You could mentor a young professional from young adulthood into the peak of his or her career.
You could, from the comfort of your desk, armchair, front porch or fishing hole, provide another ten or twenty years of incisive analysis and otherwise-forgotten experience related to difficult issues developing in your area of expertise.
You could finally write that memoir or novel, learn to paint, play the piano, or perfect your putting game, and in the process encourage some younger person who needs to hear by your example, your words, or your companionship, “What you are doing is worth it.”
You could write letters to the editor and bless out upstart politicians and conceited middle managers, in the process saying what the rest of us wish we had the nerve to say, but aren’t old enough not to care what other people think.
If you’re a priest, you could . . . well, you don’t get to retire. Sorry. Nice try.
People with “not much more time” still have much to contribute.
I won’t say that every old person is therefore wise. I won’t say that every younger person facing a shortened lifespan due to medical problems is therefore living the well-examined life. Nor do I say that the value of human life can be measured in utilitarian terms; your life is of infinite worth even if you can’t do anything at all.
But sick people and old people and the perfectly healthy young person who also dies of this thing do bring value to the world.
Nothing we can do, individually or as a society, can eliminate every untimely death that this new coronavirus will cause. We can, however, delay the spread of this disease so that our healthcare systems are not swamped, and therefore no one needs suffer for lack of all the current treatments medical science has to offer. Slowing the epidemic also buys us more time for doctors and nurses to learn which existing treatments are most effective, and for researchers to develop new treatments or preventatives that will save people who would otherwise perish.
They are worth it. Stay home.
Photo: St. Wolfgang Altarpiece, Austria, showing scenes from the life of Christ. I’m sure you can think of ways it relates to this post, but honestly I just thought it was cool looking. You can read about the artist here. Image courtesy of Wikimedia, CC 4.0.
Reddit
Posted on March 15, 2020 March 15, 2020 by Jennifer FitzPosted in Economic Issues, Families, History, It's All Catholic, Mercy, Patience, Politics, Prayer Requests, Rant-o-Rama, Self-Sacrifice, Social Issues
Older posts
Now shipping!
Yes, kids, I, too, am astonished I wrote this thing. But it's an awesome book because OSV's editors are top notch.
Working title was: "How do I get these kids to behave?!" This is the book for when you want wrap up every class session still loving Jesus and your students both . . . and not needing to go to confession for losing your temper either.
Available on Kindle. Eminently reusable. Best value in 99-cent retreats anywhere.
Click the image to go back to the top of the blog.
May my errors be honest and my editors more so.
Meet the Author
My Books
Archived Blog Posts
Riparians at the Gate Blog Archives Select Month November 2022 February 2022 October 2021 May 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 June 2019 May 2019 March 2019 February 2019 October 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 July 2015 June 2015 April 2015 January 2015 December 2014 September 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 May 2008
Blog Archives by Category
Like the artwork here? Unless otherwise noted, the photos on this blog are courtesy of the Fitz family, all rights reserved. If you’d like to buy or borrow an image, contact me and we’ll talk.
–> For logos, book covers and product photos, I follow the fair use guidelines and you can too. Other artwork is all attributed in the post that features it, so follow the attribution info to learn more about whether and how you can use it.
| 68,833 |
Accessibility and freedom equipment already set up on your house is going to be an important asset as the baby boomer population continues to get older. It’s going to make your house more valuable, and be bought faster in the event that something occurs. A fresh elevator can significantly increase the value of your Sparks residence.
The stairway are one of the very dangerous spots at home, plus one drop can lead to a serious harm which will greatly hinder you for years. You can add many additional years to your life, and revel in your family and grandkids for much longer, by avoiding falling on the staircase. Avoid breaking a hip, knee or spine using a fall down the stairway.
Going up and down the stairs is something that most aged individuals feel is the most dangerous element of their day. Having to balance and climb can result in falling and severely injuring yourself, and is a dangerous blend. A stair lift can turn this into a fun and easy action, instead of one you fear.
Our Nevada your life easier, as well as installers can get a new lift installed in a few days, making your house a great deal more reachable.
Does the extra help you provide your elderly parent or dependent appear too risky and overwhelming when it comes to following them down and up the stairs?
Here at Cain’s Freedom NV , we realize that making home modifications may look out of the inquiry, as it seems impossible or unaffordable. Our professional installers and staff simplify the method of remaining mobile for the elderly, disabled, or briefly wounded people of Sparks.
You’ll wish you had done it sooner, once you experience life with a stairlift.
For many individuals dwelling in Sparks, dealing with an injury or pain or getting up a flight of stairs may become a huge chore. The psychological consequences are debilitating and will begin changing every aspect of your life. People that have had a stairlift comprehend that they have to self-restrict themselves and suffer the effects of changing their behavior to deal with the chore.
Many, who continue without a remedy, even begin to experience other unwanted side effects that are harmful health. These effects are not only directly related to the immobility. They are related to the changes a person has made to prevent the chore or the risks they take by walking the stairs despite questionable equilibrium.
For those who have found that you’re not as steady on your feet or that you’re modifying the way your stairway climb, then you’re already making your life harder than it requires to be.
Addressing problems increases the happiness we experience in life, because we feel like we’re in control and we’re eliminating barriers that can endanger us.
Give our Sparks team a call to learn the best way to experience life with a stairlift and recover charge of your life with an easy fast option that’ll serve you for years!
Choose to set the thoughts of friends and family at ease.
We worry about people who are closest to us. Peace of mind is an important part of living in an emotionally supportive manner. What happens to your body, for example, anxiety that you expertise with the loss of your mobility and independence impacts people you love, and that includes neighbors, family, colleagues and friends.
For many loved ones, it pains them to see you suffer and they want you to make this part of your life easier.
When you’ve got a stairlift properly installed by our Sparks team, then your family members can stop envisioning the worst when you are alone at home. They are able to feel more assured that you are getting around your house and they’re able to put to rest the concept of putting you into an unknown setting at a care facility.
You can stay at home by giving your nearest and dearest peace of mind as well as your family may enjoy the time on you, since you will have fewer things to worry about.
Our Sparks staff understands how important it’s to get your questions answered and is available right now to give you the support and help you need to make an informed decision and help you move around again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Can a stair lift go around corners?
2) Can you rent a stair lift for an extended period of time?
4) How do stair lifts work?
5) Is there any way to sell the equipment when we are done with it?
6) Why are they so expensive to install?
7) Can these lifts be used on wood flooring?
8) How much does a good stair lift cost?
9) What types of financing are available if insurance doesn't cover home modifications?
10) Does the VA cover the cost and installation of lifts?
11) How are these lifts fitted?
12) Does AARP cover the cost of these lifts?
1) Can a stair lift go around corners?
Yes. Although straight stairlifts are frequently much less expensive, curved stairlifts can be custom-built to fit any stairway. Modern rail designs to suit your lifestyle, leaving plenty of room for individuals to walk the stairs up and down easily, and effortlessly can help the stairlift journey around corners tightly, comfortably.
2) Can you rent a stair lift for an extended period of time?
Due to individual situation you might be facing, you will need to rent a stairlift instead of purchase one. Possibly you'll have company for a protracted period of time that may benefit from its use, maybe you rent your home, or someone in your family has had surgery or an accident and desires it temporarily. Sometimes, determined by the medical condition, you just can't be certain how long you will need the stairlift and renting looks like the best option on a month-to-month basis. Some Nevada firms even offer rent to own applications. However, it's vital that you consider the cost of installation and de-installation before selecting this option instead of buying a secondhand stairlift.
Normally the speed ranges from 13.78 feet per minute to 29.53 feet per minute with the speed varying with the rider's weight, all within the recommended industry standard. The maximum rate in the US is 40 feet per minute. Units can come with an emergency brake safety feature in the event you feel out of control descending. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers manages the standards for stairs chair lifts for issues of public safety, including speed under ASME A18.1.. Some makers provide a changeable speed of 0 to 38 feet per minute.
4) How do stair lifts work?
Basically, it's like riding in your ski lift, minus the bitter cold. A safety belt keeps you firmly in place and a foot rest prevents you from hitting the steps while using the lift. Some stairlifts call/send controls on the wall near the tracks for a user or you can definitely utilize a remote control to send the seat where you want it to go. Sometimes the control panel can be found on the seat arm. Become knowledgeable about the particular characteristics of your unit. The lift consists of a motor, passenger car, the control system, and your comfortable seat so you could once again regain your freedom. Some versions rely on a belt like a conveyor belt and a rack and pinion system is used by other versions.
5) Is there any way to sell the equipment when we are done with it?
Yes. There are suppliers and producers that offer buyback programs. A lot of them are going to remove the unwanted raise additionally. A lot of people want to buy reconditioned stairlifts, so the demand is there. Many buyers do not like to buy directly from a seller, because they need to have it checked out by a professional to determine how well it works and whether it'll work on their stairway. Certain versions sell simpler than others.
6) Why are they so expensive to install?
Above all, they contain routine care and help you every step of the way. Professional installation is a lot more economical in the long-run in terms of guarantee, service and long-term care because they're trained to follow safety measures and experienced at setup. The installer is getting paid to correctly install your unit in order you do not confront serious hazards that do result when an inexperienced person opens the manual for the first time and installs a stairlift. A Sparks professional also understands just how to make sure that the stairlift follows fire exit requirements, how to make sure that the charger connections are operating properly to avoid serious injuries, and ensure that all the proper operating characteristics are enabled. The cost you pay to truly have a trusted and trained tech ensures your security as well as the longevity of your purchase. Repairs and reinstallations can take longer and cost more than an appropriate first setup. Also, setup includes lifting a reasonable quantity of weight. Many installations may be finished in a few hours by a professional.
7) Can these lifts be used on wood flooring?
Lifts can be set up on all types of flooring (carpet, concrete, tile, marble, linoleum, or bare wooden stairs). Holes will probably be evident without carpeting when the stairlift is removed. However, the holes are small and could be filled. Stairlifts can be set up on wooden outside steps. Actually, most professionally installed stairlifts in Sparks price between $500 and $1,000 for the labor given a variety of factors based on the difficulty of the job. Tile, concrete, or metal stairways are more challenging than wooden stairs.
8) How much does a good stair lift cost?
The cost averages around $3,500 to over $10,000 for a great stairlift. Rental and support programs are accessible. $6,000 and for a custom curved rail stairway prices are around $10,000. for a straight flight of stairs appear to spend between $2,500 While some do not contain installment in the price, some products are sold as complete packages including setup plus a guarantee. The shape of the stairwell, the length of the seat style, the track, job, and the attributes you desire decide the cost.
9) What types of financing are available if insurance doesn't cover home modifications?
Depending on your own medical condition, there are a few plans that help make the home modification cheaper. 1. The Fall Prevention Center of Excellence lists government grants that are available for home modifications. Those comprise: (a) the Assistive Technology Funding and Systems Change Project United Cerebral Palsy Associations (UCPA) at 800 872 5827-UCPA ; (b) the Department of Veteran Affairs at (800) 827-1000 ; and (c) the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) (800) 829-1040. 2. Contact the National Council on Independent Living Center (703) 525-3406 on ways to get funding and referral services locally. 3. Call (202) 708-1112. 4. It may reassure you to understand that if your insurance doesn't cover the cost, several of the stairlift makers have partnered with banks to provide financing alternatives, including monthly payment alternatives and loans. 5. There are alternatives to consider. The IRS may decide your home adjustment qualifies for tax deductions. Call the IRS to see if you're able to deduct the price of installing your stairlift. IRS Publication 502 is a great resource that will help you gauge whether altering your staircase qualifies you to deduct it as a medical expense. You can also phone them at (800) 829-1040. 6. Should you meet the requirements, some Area Agency of Aging use resources from the Older Americans Act Title III to modify homes. You can phone them toll free at 877-866-2476 or visit http://www.nahro.org
10) Does the VA cover the cost and installation of lifts?
According to AARP, a couple of grants are offered by The Department of Veterans Affairs to qualified veterans with disabilities for security developments in the house. Upon qualification, a veteran can receive both a HISA grant and either SHA or a SAH grant. Contact the form 10-0103 to apply for the HISA grant. Contact the VA and ask for VA form 26-4555 to submit an application for a SAH or SHA grant. For advice on all advantages call 1 800 827 1000.
11) How are these lifts fitted?
Making your purchase can involve a terrific deal of time, effort and decision-making once you consider which features matter most to you and all the various sorts of stairlifts that are available to you that will suit your needs. After you have decided, the lift that is fitting entails making certain that the greatest focus is given to the system fitting properly so that you don't have to worry about its security or dependability. Your best option will be to have it fit by certified Sparks professionals. These certified professionals measure the step heights and pitch angle to achieve correctness. The professional determine the stairlift can fit your stairway --and will go to the website--indoor or outdoor. They are going to secure the track to the stairs with supports fixed to the stairs. Often people wonder if it's attached to the wall, but the stairlift is right fitted via the floor covering of the stairway.
12) Does AARP cover the cost of these lifts?
AARP isn't a supplier of insurance, but contracts with insurance companies to make coverage available to AARP members. AARP doesn't make health plan recommendations for people and doesn't cover the price of stairlifts or any wellness needs. AARP does provide access to healthcare tools and coverage like Medicare Supplement Insurance and other health plans to members as a resource, but member advantages are given by third parties. Check with the plans that are listed under the membership services of AARP.
| 13,623 |
Continuing with its efforts to protect and restore our environment, INSEE Cement, Sri Lanka’s only fully-integrated cement manufacturer, recently kicked of its latest Mangrove Restoration Project.
This new initiative will work to restore 1 hectare of natural mangrove forest in the vicinity of the Searakkuliya Lagoon, Aruvakkaru, in the Puttalam District. Adding to INSEEs ongoing mangrove restoration projects around the Thalathuduwa and Kuruluduwa Islands of the Koggala Lake, mangrove restoration project in Aruvakkaru is a new sustainability initiative by INSEE.
The initial phase of the Aruvakkaru segment of the project will see between 1,500 and 2,000 new mangrove plants being introduced to the area over a period of 1 year, along with other ecological conservation activities.
Explaining further, Organization & Human Resource Director Chandana Wijayanama said, “At INSEE, we are consistently striving to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change[RL1] . Thus, we have instituted a comprehensive conservation and restoration umbrella that covers various areas of concern.
The new mangrove restoration project at Aravakkaru is a part of the ‘water and biodiversity’ category of efforts of INSEE, through which we envision a restored nation that is ecologically secure. As the market leader in Sri Lanka for cement products, it is also our duty to lead the way in terms of sustainable development and conservation.
In the same way that we strive for the highest standards in manufacturing, we also stand for maximum effort to safeguard our nation’s natural resources and biodiversity. Therefore, we are very proud to have launched this initiative and look forward to continuing with this project and our wider comprehensive sustainability programme in the future.”
INSEE’s environmental sustainability projects are divided under four main pillars which include restoration, conservation and rehabilitation projects for the following areas: quarry land, mangrove habitats, rainforests and coral reefs.
In addition to the new mangrove restoration project, INSEE has also been involved in an ongoing assisted ecological regeneration programme, since 1999, in partnership with IUCN In 2018, INSEE undertook the restoration of a degraded area of the Kanneliya Forest buffer zone. Despite challenges, including the global pandemic, work is ongoing and 15,000 forest plants have been introduced, an onsite nursery has been commissioned and a fire-belt has been established to mitigate the risk of forest fires.
Sensitive to the ecological impacts the oceans are facing, INSEE has also launched the Unawatuna Coral Reef Restoration project, which has seen the introduction of artificial structures to reinforce the coral bed and encourage coral propagation.
Launched in 2009, the project has since enabled the natural establishment of at least 25 new coral colonies. INSEE has involved various non-profit, governmental, non-governmental and educational institutions in these projects and collaborated with them to expand the reach and improve the success of its various sustainability and ecological protection initiatives.
These institutions include the Sri Lanka Navy, Biodiversity Sri Lanka, Rotaract Clubs, the University of Moratuwa, the Habaraduwa Technical College, the IUCN and a host of other environmentalists and volunteers.
new follow-up comments new replies to my comments
Label
{}
Label
{}
View all comments
LBO is the pioneer and leader in online business and economics news in Sri Lanka, LBO brings you a more comprehensive online news experience, integrating a host of interactive tools to keep you better informed.
Want to receive news alerts?
You can receive time-sensitive updates via email messaging. Enter your e-mail address and other details to subscribe to our newsletter.
| 3,975 |
Yesterday the price of now stood at $0.04. The market capitalization of the asset was 0. ChangeNOW’s volatility was established at 3.97%. The trading volume of the coin reached $6 904.
We estimate the price of ChangeNOW to be $0.04 tomorrow 2022-11-29 and $0.04 on 2022-12-05;
We estimate the market capitalization of ChangeNOW to reach 0 tomorrow 2022-11-29 and 0 on 2022-12-01;
We estimate the volatility of ChangeNOW to become 1.4% tomorrow 2022-11-29 and 2.82% on 2022-12-01;
Our recommendation for the pair NOW/USD for tomorrow, 2022-11-29, to buy.
Oct 30Nov 06Nov 13Nov 20Nov 27Oct 30Nov 06Nov 13Nov 20Nov 270.0350.0400.0450.0500.0350.0400.0450.050
Today's review
ChangeNOW retraces by 4% in the period November 17 - November 23 as the market turns slightly bearish.
ChangeNOW has been bearish last week as its price has been predominantly falling. The volatility of NOW has been medium throughout the reviewed period in correspondence with the price action. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
Latest reviews
The bleeding market: ChangeNOW loses 8% between November 16 and November 22 as the selling pressure grows.
The price of ChangeNOW was falling last from November 16 until November 22, giving enough reason to conclude that the market is bearish. The volatility associated with the NOW market was medium, as were its price fluctuations. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
Bearish price action on November 15 to November 21 resulted in ChangeNOW by 10%.
Between November 15 - November 21, ChangeNOW has been mostly bearish as its price has been in the falling mode. NOW has been going through a period of medium volatility, which fell in line with the occurred price changes. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
Bearish response: The ChangeNOW price melts by 5% between November 14 and November 20.
The downward movement of the ChangeNOW price last week indicates the chosen market is bearish. The volatility associated with the NOW market was low, as were its price fluctuations. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
ChangeNOW sees limited 3% gains between November 10 and November 16 as the market cools down.
The bearish behavior of ChangeNOW last week was characterized by the occurrence of upswings. The price swings of NOW pointed to the presence of medium volatility. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
November 9 - November 15 price action recap: ChangeNOW sees a weak 3% gain as the buyers take a step back.
The bearish behavior of ChangeNOW last week was characterized by the occurrence of upswings. The volatility associated with the NOW market was medium, as were its price fluctuations. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
Bearish price action on November 8 to November 14 resulted in ChangeNOW by 10%.
The bearish behavior of ChangeNOW last week was characterized by the occurrence of downswings. The situation on the NOW market shows that the underlying asset is currently experiencing a period of medium volatility. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
The November 3 - 9 market report: ChangeNOW plunges by 22% as sellers apply more pressure.
ChangeNOW has been bearish last week as its price has been predominantly falling. The volatility of NOW has been medium throughout the reviewed period in correspondence with the price action. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
A 14% drop on the ChangeNOW market last week (November 2 - November 8) signals that the sellers are gaining strength.
The downward movement of the ChangeNOW price last week indicates the chosen market is. The volatility associated with the NOW market was medium, as were its price fluctuations. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
A 8% price increase last week (October 30 - November 5) confirms the bullishness of ChangeNOW.
ChangeNOW has been bullish last week as its price has been predominantly rising. The volatility of NOW has been medium throughout the reviewed period in correspondence with the price action. No rise or fall was observed in the market capitalization of the coin during the period under review. No growth or loss has been observed in trading volume on the crypto coin's market.
| 5,668 |
Russia has temporarily derailed the European Union–Ukraine Association Agreement (AA) and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) deal at the EU’s Vilnius summit, November 28–29. Moscow achieved this success through economic pressures on Ukraine and threats to escalate such pressures, which the EU could not mitigate (see Part One, EDM, December 3). This is the latest in a series of Russian geopolitical and economic gains against Western interests in Europe and nearby theaters in recent months.
The EU had expected to initial the AA and DCFTA with Armenia at the Vilnius summit, and sign those agreements in 2014 to bring them fully into effect. Ahead of the Vilnius summit, however, under pressure from the Kremlin, Yerevan turned around, renouncing the nearly-completed agreements with the EU and choosing the Russia-led Customs Union/Eurasian bloc instead (see EDM, September 5, 6, 11, 18). Four EU member countries (and several aspirant states) have recently confirmed their accession to Gazprom’s South Stream project, contravening EU legislation and policy, after the EU’s failure to finance the Nabucco project. The setback in Ukraine is potentially of even greater magnitude, but can still be reversed if the EU acts politically to halt the collapse of order in Kyiv.
Russia skillfully timed its attack on Ukraine’s economy to the run-up of the Vilnius summit. Moscow counted on the EU’s cumbersome policy-making process to react too slowly to salvage the summit’s outcome for Ukraine. Until mid-November, the plight of the convicted former prime minister, Yulia Tymoshenko, had topped the list of EU concerns in preparing the summit. The EU (with Germany in the lead on this particular issue) sought Tymoshenko’s release as a make-or-break condition to signing the agreements with Ukraine. But the Kremlin turned the tables on Brussels and Kyiv to impose its own, deal-breaking conditions far more effectively, namely in the economic sphere. The Ukrainian government asked the EU what it might do to mitigate the impact of Russia’s economic measures; but the EU had not worked out a relevant response by the time of the Vilnius summit.
Presciently, the Kyiv analytical weekly Dzerkalo Tyzhnia identified two miscalculations in Brussels that predetermined the summit’s denouement regarding Ukraine. First, “freedom for Tymoshenko should not have been made a key precondition to signing these momentous agreements. [With that, President Viktor] Yanukovych painted himself and the country into a dark corner, and the EU got into a blind alley.” And “the second, fundamental mistake of the EU, [consisted of] turning a blind eye to geopolitics and underestimating the Russian factor” (Dzerkalo Tyzhnia, November 16–22).
Moscow halted the Ukraine-EU association process without offering any positive economic incentives to Ukraine; i.e., at no material cost to Russia. The start of punitive economic measures and threats to escalate them proved sufficient. In its dire fiscal situation, the Ukrainian government had hoped for Russian credits and a price discount on natural gas. But Moscow did not offer credits; and Putin refused to re-negotiate the 2009 gas contract. Russia is holding out such incentives to Ukraine if the latter decides to join the Russia-led Customs Union and planned Eurasian Union; but Ukraine rules this out (Interfax, November 27).
A video recording of informal conversations, released by Lithuania’s presidential office during the Vilnius summit, shows German Chancellor Angela Merkel telling Yanukovych: “We expected more” (without elaborating); and other top European officials asking Yanukovych whether he might sign the agreements after all. In that video-recorded conversation, Yanukovych replies: “The economic situation in Ukraine is very hard, and we have big difficulties with Moscow. I would like you to hear me. I was alone for three years in very unequal conditions with Russia, one on one” (Kyiv Post, November 29).
The phrase “we expected more” could equally sum up the Ukrainian government’s message to the EU in the context of Russia’s punitive measures. Yanukovych presented those expectations in a poorly prepared document but not unreasonable at the core. The Ukrainian government had expected assistance mainly through the resumption of International Monetary Fund (IMF) lending and EU-financed upgrades of Ukraine’s gas transit system. Neither of these materialized, however. The IMF’s stringent conditions, communicated to Kyiv in mid-November, were judged by EU officials in Brussels as too harsh and ill-timed (Kyiv Post, November 26; see EDM, December 3).
In the run-up to the Vilnius summit and during it, Ukrainian government leaders cited exorbitant costs of compliance with the DCFTA and the transition of Ukraine’s industrial production to European standards. Those cost figures, looking arbitrary and even mutually contradictory, purported to represent internal investment costs, but were perceived as demands for EU assistance (Interfax-Ukraine, November 25, 27, 29). At the summit, some of the Eastern Partnership’s most consistent promoters warned Ukraine against bargaining with the EU for assistance, as the EU association process is “not a bazaar” or a “bidding auction.” This fall-back line (which persists post-Vilnius) reflects frustration with the EU’s inability to anticipate and counter Russia’s economic pressures on Ukraine.
Within the European Union, a handful of national governments (Swedish, Polish and other Central European governments, the EU’s Lithuanian presidency) and top European Commission officials in Brussels drive the EU’s policy toward Ukraine (and the Eastern Partnership as a whole). At the Vilnius summit, those officials made clear that the agreements’ signing remains the EU’s goal, and that the EU’s door remains open to the Ukrainian government and the country. There was general consensus among Vilnius summit participants that Russia had “blackmailed” Ukraine into postponing the agreements’ signing (Author’s observations, Vilnius summit, November 28–29).
On the summit’s sidelines, Ukrainian opposition leaders accused the Yanukovych government of “treason” for halting the association process with the EU. This argument found no acceptance among European officials at the summit. In their view, the legitimately elected president Yanukovych and the government hold the constitutional authority to make such decisions, including (as described by European officials in Vilnius) wrong decisions (Author’s observations, Vilnius summit, November 28–29).
According to Yanukovych’s economic adviser, Andriy Honcharuk, the next opportunity to sign the AA and DCFTA could come in March 2014, during the annual EU-Ukraine summit. Honcharuk suggested that an EU-Ukraine working group be created to resolve the contentious economic issues, ahead of that event (Interfax-Ukraine, November 29). Given the magnitude of those issues (and quite apart from Ukraine’s internal political situation), this suggestion should be seen as reflecting the hopes of pro-Europe elements in the Ukrainian government, rather than a realistic possibility to sign the agreements so soon.
More realistically, European Commission officials suggested continuing the discussions toward the March 2014 summit and beyond it, so as to address the Ukrainian government’s concerns, albeit without re-negotiating the agreements. While stating that Ukraine needs more time for signing the agreements, Yanukovych reaffirmed his government’s commitment to a European course “without alternative options” (Gazeta Wyborcza, November 27; Interfax-Ukraine, November 29, December 2). The Vilnius summit left no room for doubt that the EU continued to regard the incumbent Ukrainian president and government as the EU’s partners for signing the association and free trade agreements.
Belarusians in the Russian Federation In..Next
Ukraine—Strong People, Weak State (Par..
Events
The Jamestown Foundation is pleased to present the hybrid in-person... MORE
Media Appearances
Jamestown Senior Fellow Olevs Nikers Is Interviewed by Veridica on Possible Outcomes for War in Ukraine
On November 17, Jamestown Foundation Senior Fellow Olevs Nikers was interviewed by Romania-based outlet Veridica regarding, among other topics, the best possible outcome for the... MORE
Books and Reports
The Syrian Uprising: A Militant Leadership Monitor Special Report
In this “Special Report on The Syrian Uprising: A Focus on Parties and Leadership” we examine the roles of key religious, military, and political actors in the Syrian uprising. This 2012 Quarterly Special Report features five brand-new articles commissioned by The Jamestown Foundation and one highly relevant article from The... MORE
| 8,988 |
Amongst digital marketing folk, there is a perpetual disagreement over which is the most powerful method of search engine marketing. Some say you can’t beat a high ranking in the organic results, were as others prefer the data-driven control offered by pay-per-click strategies.
Search engine marketing (SEM) generally covers two areas of digital marketing:
In most niches, the ideal situation is to rank first for organic search and appear first in paid ads on the SERP (search engine results page). With SEM, the goal is to occupy as much ‘real estate’ on the front page of the results as possible. A prolific appearance in #1 positions across the SERPs not only gets lots of clicks, but is a huge credibility booster, and helps foster trust in your brand for potential buyers.
Any good digital marketing agency will use an integrated approach. This approach involves often using PPC to get clients quick results, whilst rankings climb. When it comes to SEO, results can sometimes be quick, however it’s no secret that the most impressive results can take months to be realised.
The leading advantage of SEO is it’s potential as a long-term growth strategy. Attempting to use it as a short-term strategy is nearly-never effective. Using short-term biased methods usually trigger penalties from search engines like Google. Well-performed search engine optimisation will create results that last for years. And more importantly, you’d don’t have to pay for every click
Attempting optimisation of your website can be risky unless you’re an expert. SEO should always be left to the professionals. It’s very easy to cause significant damage to your website rankings. The most common mistake is building the wrong type of links, or using the wrong anchor text for backlinks
The organic results can be a very turbulent landscape. The reason for this is the dynamic nature of the ranking algorithm that dictate the organic rankings. The algorithm is updated daily, with major updates on a less regular basis. The major updates can make or break the rankings of a business. Hence, solely relying on SEO for your customer acquisition can be a risky strategy.
For building brand awareness, investing in organic search is incredibly cost-effective across industries. SEO has trees added benefit of adding of increase perceived trust in your brand. With an organic ranking higher than the competition, it builds credibility in your brand..
However, in a business environment where many niches are heavily crowded, SEO has become increasingly difficult. This is because getting quick rankings is near impossible for most niches, and it can be incredibly difficult to overcome established incumbent rankings in challenging markets. In those types of markets, it could take well over a year to get any worthwhile leads as a result of SEO efforts.
When to use paid traffic?
PPC marketing can bring in sales from day 1 – that’s the key advantage. However, it will also incur a cost from day 1. The cost per click (CPC) depends on the competitiveness of the market and the perceived value of a click. For example, if there’s a large amount of companies that are competing to sell a high value service/product, you can be sure of a high CPC. A high CPC quickly incur costs, however you’ll always be in control thanks to pre-defined budgets.
Setting up these types of ads can be challenging, however, Google has recently undergone an overhaul to its ad platform. Not only did the name change from ‘Adwords’ to simply ‘Ads’, but the user interface has been simplified. The new user-interface is designed for non-experts to create ads and track the progress of their ads with easily understandable data. This has massively lowered the barrier to entry to online advertising. Whilst it’s probably better to use a professional, it’s much less difficult to operate on your own compared to SEO.
One important variable with PPC is the landing page. The success of a campaign is heavily dependant on the quality of the landing page. A good landing page is designed to create conversions i.e. sales. Using paid ads, you can split test landing pages to optimise for conversions using the vast array of data viable on ad platforms like Google. Whereas with SEO, this is much more difficult, as pages have to be set up for SEO-purposes primarily – which may be at the detriment of conversion rates.
Which has the CTR (click-through-rate) advantage?
Organic search is the clear winner in terms of click-though-rate. On desktops organic search results, around 65% of click head to the organic results, with only around 4% opting to click on the paid listings (read more here). For lower volume keywords, such as when targeting local searchers, there may simply be too little demand to create enough traffic using PPC due to the lower CTR.
Ultimately, this means that scaling-up paid ads can be tricky – sometimes the clicks needed just don’t exist. And scaling-up can mean targeting poorer-converting keywords, which may increase the cost of acquiring a customer significantly. With SEO, thanks to vastly superior CTR rates across niches, there’s often more clicks available. Hence, for those that aspire to scale to more impressive heights, an organic search strategy is a must.
So which one should I choose?
Ideally both. They operate more efficiently in tandem. For example, the higher quantity and quality of data derived from PPC can be fed into SEO efforts. Furthermore, every keyword has different levels of competition and a different CPC. A simple integrated strategy, would be to invest in long-term SEO strategies for keywords that have a high CPC (so long as organic competition doesn’t seem insurmountable).
As mentioned both aspects of SEM can be extremely difficult in more-busy niches. Therefore, it isn’t always the optimum marketing method. In these cases, it may be more effective to allocate efforts of other marketing methods. Youtube, instagram, and Facebook advertising have become incredibly effective in the last 5 years. Don’t restrict yourself to SEM strategies if they’re not the right fit for the market.
Lawyer SEO
Monday – Friday: 8:30am to 4pm EST
SearchEngineOptimizationExpert.com is an SEO Firm that carries out organic search services, paid search management and web design.
| 6,518 |
Dylanishness, The Million-Petaled Flower of Steely Dan’s Uncoolness, Coke-Binge Obscurantism, Gradual Overcoding by a Minutemen Cover, The Land of Undead Dreams, Abject Betrayal, Intermingling Enthusiasms, Bourdieu as Applied to Hipsterism, Argots of Appreciation and Invective
by Peter Coviello
Fair warning: this is not to be a wading into the deeper waters of Steely Dan esoterica. I’m not going to parse the weird bleakness of “Charlie Freak,” explain the boom on Mizar-5, unravel the time signatures of “Your Gold Teeth,” or take up your evening “speculating for hours on the meaning of a certain enigmatic question in the lyrics of ‘Any Major Dude,’” to steal a phrase from Michael Chabon’s Wonder Boys. Nor do I have much of technical interest to share with you, about the harmonic intricacies of the solos of Larry Carlton and Skunk Baxter, or about the Dylanishness of Donald Fagen’s diction and phrasing, and even less about the precise quality of the impress of mid-century American bebop on the early-’70s pop ambitions of this one band. Sorry. Instead I want to tell the story of a long fight I once had about Steely Dan—a fight that turned into something else.
The mise-en-scène of this fight will be, I think, familiar to many of you. It was significantly after midnight. You would not at this point have called us extremely drunk, but sobriety had in truth been forsaken some time earlier. My friend John and I were in his basement just then, foraging among the varieties of finger food that had gone unconsumed at the party he’d thrown. And here at the tail end of a day that began with his child home sick from school, and that somehow devolved into the project of playing, with this child, the complete discographies of a number of ’70s bands in reverse-chronological order—at the end of this day and this night, we were listening to records, and fighting about them. The question before us was simple: which is the greatest Steely Dan record? Very few among us, I am betting, will have no knowledge of this kind of talking, or would fail to recognize its characteristic features and form: its cheerful counterfactuality, its ambulatory indirection, its easy shuttling between a style of largely absurdist speculation and sudden pockets of very serious assertion.
John was the ideal coconspirator for this kind of fighting, for a multitude of reasons, only two of which I’ll mention: he and I had by this time been talking this special kind of talk for better than twenty years, and there are few people in the world for whom I feel a love as comprehensive or as detailed. I’ll return to that conjunction—talking, love—in just a moment.
But first: Steely Dan? Steely Dan? Listen: I know. If only because to those disinclined to the band, such disinclination typically takes the form of an ardent and vocal dislike (rather than, say, indifference), I do not need to have explained to me the million-petaled flower of Steely Dan’s uncoolness. Here’s what I say to the haters: fair enough. I do not need to be persuaded of the jazz-nerd preciousness of much of the affection for this band, of the tedium of some of their coke-binge obscurantism (or of its explication), and least of all of the irritatingness of the particularly male, particularly boy style of hyper-appreciation that surrounds them: those exquisite parsings of the finery of technique, execution, and mastery, or of the academic nuances of influence and pedigree. (Like many of you, I have been that boy.) The phrase yacht-rock gets at the self-satisfaction and the pretense quite nicely, I think—and gestures, too, toward the almost total lack of propulsive, uncoiled fury in their catalog: of rocking—and so needs little elaboration. Preciousness, pretense, production value, and a certain rocklessness: not much to wonder at in the absence of any real through-line of Steely Dan’s influence in the otherwise omnivorously cannibalizing world of post-punk and indie rock, where so many of my most ardent affections, and John’s, continue to reside. (Post-rock would be an exception here, at least on some points, though I don’t take much of it to be marked by the aesthetic of Steely Dan.)
But our fight, though undertaken with something other than high seriousness, was neither backhandedly dismissive nor premised on the covert coolness (what a friend calls the “double-reverse coolness”) of appreciating something so banal. There was too much of something else – earnestness, you might say, or joyousness, or love – for either of these. And so it was that while burning the fuel of these other affects our fight, that evening, enlarged and expanded itself, and became a new thing. Now, there are people in the world who find fights about questions with no possibility of a definitive answer to be pointless, and worse: wasteful (another word for this is “masturbatory”) and maddening. I do not understand these people. For as the dispute grew more intricate, and its terms more porous and entangled, John and I experienced what I would like to call a revelation, such as are said to be commonplace among mystics, and philosophers, and other idle persons.
It’s easy enough to dismiss this kind of hyped-up talk: it does not cure cancer, expands the gross domestic product very little indeed, and quite cheerfully partakes of the kinds of pleased self-captivation for which the tweedy classes are even today renowned. And yet and yet. I will confess I have never been able to foreswear my own fascination with the talk that gathers around the objects we love most in the world – typically slight, useless things (in Robert Lowell’s phrase) like books and songs and paintings and movies and such. That talk, after all, does not do nothing.
Many of you will know the 1977 Steely Dan song “Deacon Blues,” which gorgeously captures the sex-and-smoke-tinged sadness of Los Angeles. Like most great LA stories, it’s a song about living a life inside the scene of so many misfired aspirations, so many best hopes both unrealized and, rather gruesomely, unextinguished. (Los Angeles: Land of Undead Dreams.) You know the quotable lines: “I cried when I wrote this song / Sue me if I play to long”; “They got a name for the winners in the world / I want a name when I lose.” I want a name when I lose. To be on the losing side of the city, but to be distinguished in that losing by a name: that is the ambition of this character, a man cynical and beaten but too languorous altogether to be called hard-bitten or hard-boiled, whatever the noir-ish echoes to be heard there.
But there in John’s basement, as the talk ramped itself up into unsought dimensions of argument, the ions in the air began to charge and reassemble. And so, like Keanu seeing the lines of code pouring down the walls, at last we understood: Deacon Blues is the name of this character, at this time in history. But he has other names and he lives in other songs. Other songs, from across the whole range of the Steely Dan/ Donald Fagan catalog, feature the man who would become Deacon Blues – the same person, the same guy – but going by different names and frozen at different moments on the temporal curve of a life that bends, with sad inexorability, toward just this west coast desolation. Who else, we realized in a gasp of comprehension, who else is Lester the Nightfly, title character of Fagan’s first post-Steely Dan record, The Nightfly – “I’m Lester the Nightfly, hello Baton Rougue / Won’t you turn your radio down / Respect the seven second delay we use” – who else is Lester the Nightfly but Deacon Blues at an earlier, infinitely brighter moment, when he’s an early-60s late-night radio DJ, pouring out “jazz and conversation / From the foot of Mt. Belzoni”? How much more rich in poignancy do both songs become when understood to be narrated by the same person? “I’ve got plenty of java and Chesterfield Kings,” Lester the Nightfly says, “But I feel like crying / I wish I had a heart of ice.” Yeah yeah: but we know that in 15 or 20 years he won’t even bother with the crying.
“The Nightfly,” under this dispensation, becomes a song about heartbreak, but youthful heartbreak – the kind that carries with it the secret thrill of entrée into the tumultuous world of adult romance – and “Deacon Blues” becomes a song about the desolate places you find after your heart just won’t break anymore. (Of course you don’t lose points for thinking this narrative tracks along the same arc that runs from Camelot optimism to late-70s malaise.)
But there is more. A few months later I came back to Chicago and John picked me up at the airport. He didn’t spring it on me at once. In the car, maybe 20 minutes into the drive, somewhere on the Northwest side, he spoke these words: “I’ve been thinking about ‘Doctor Wu.’” And he had. “’Doctor Wu’ appeared on Steely Dan’s 1975 album, Katy Lied. For there, in “Doctor Wu,” is where the real corrosion happens, where we find a major crisis-point in the trajectory from Lester the Nightfly to Deacon Blues. In a way that had somehow always escaped me – maybe because of the lovely Phil Woods saxophone part, or because of the sweet silly comedy of its names and its queries (“Are you crazy? Are you high? Or just an ordinary guy?”), or because of its gradual overcoding in my mind by the Minutemen’s amazing “Dr. Wu” cover– “Doctor Wu” is an exceptionally rough little song, about a bad patch that gets, abruptly, worse.
“Katy lied,” is how it begins. “I was half-way crucified / I was on the other side / of no tomorrow.” Well, ok. But only after the second verse do you get really any of idea of what he is talking about here. It happens so offhandedly you can pretty easily miss it. (As I did, for about two dozen years.) “Don’t seem right,” the second verse begins, “I’ve been strung out here all night / I’ve been waiting for the taste you said you’d bring to me.”
Oh – strung out… the taste you said you’d bring to me – oh wait. The singer of this song is half-way crucified because he’s a junkie. Doctor Wu is this song’s Kid Charlemagne: he is the nicknamed dealer. But it’s not just a song about being strung out in Biscayne Bay. It is instead a song about being strung out, trying to find your score, going to your girlfriend’s house, and finding her fucking your dealer. “Katy lies / You can see it in her eyes / But imagine my surprise / When I saw you…” He knows from the first Katy lies – they’re junkies: that she fucks someone else isn’t what’s shattering here – but the dealer? Their dealer? This, somehow, is what makes the scene radiant with abjection, what makes it the finding of the bottom beneath the bottom. And this is what happens to Lester the Nightfly: he begins playing jazz radio, gets into a scene that goes bad and druggy (as jazz-scenes do), finds himself strung out in Biscayne Bay – and then, in flight from this freeze-frame moment of maximal humiliation, wends his way to California, there to crawl like a viper through the suburban scenes. Twisting through a decade’s worth of songs, in other words, is the unfolding, through different moods and scenes and inflections, of the story of one character’s life. Which might be a metaphor for the ways that John and I had unfolded as characters in the time it had taken us to make these connections.
I have said that John and I had been, in essence, fighting about Steely Dan for 20 years, and that we loved one another, though I think it’s perhaps truer to say that fighting about Steely Dan is both how we came to love one another as well as the form that love found for itself, one mode of its enactment, its nurturance, and its renewal. There is nothing unique in this. It is what you do when you are young, but not only (I think) when you are young: you love things (songs, records, books) and in the abundance of that enthusiasm you talk, you measure that love with and against others’. You mix your words and your delight up with that of another person, or of many people, and you feel out what’s provoking, or disquieting, or otherwise pleasing about how those words and those enthusiasms rub up against one another. What you forge together is a kind of idiolect, a semi-private argot of appreciation and critique, ardor and invective. This is one of the things you do when you fall in love: you and your beloved make a language together – with words, theories, your bodies – a language that you refine and refashion over many years, and that eventually comes to carry within it much of your history together.
I’d want to say, then, that what you’re doing when you’re fighting about slight useless beautiful things you love is, in effect, criticism – if we can torque the idea of the critical enterprise hard enough so that it takes seriously the joyousness, the inflooding sense of richness and abundance, by which we are sometimes possessed both in the presence of an object and also in and through the talking, with others, about the object and its captivations. Criticism, in this vein, encompasses something other than exposure, deconstruction, or critique, and is not a thing you do in response to some deficit, falsity, duplicity, undermining paradox, or elemental inadequacy in the object itself. It is not sustained by a sense of that joyousness as, at base, a species of false consciousness. (Which is not to say objects of our love cannot be or contain all these things.) Criticism might also be understood as the making of a language – and with it the making of a special, precious kind of sociality, fractious and lovestruck – whose roots are in ardor and captivation, something kindled by those moments of exhilaration that songs so commonly produce. Talking is not the cancellation of such passages of joy, not the mark of joy’s consignment to the fallen realm of discourse (in this I’d depart from certain kinds of post-structuralist accounts of joy, of joy as jouissance, for instance). Talking is instead, or can be, the mode of joy’s enlargement, its enactment.
Of course, a lot of the current thinking about object-love kicks another way. If you follow the current uses of a writer named Pierre Bourdieu, especially around the matter of what gets called “hipsterism,” you’ll know what I mean. For some, the lesson of Bourdieu is in essence this: investments in a particular subset of objects, particularly aesthetics objects, are always also claims of distinction. They are strategies by which the subject of an unrelentingly capitalized culture can insist on his or her own place in a steeply hierarchical scale of value that, just because its groundings are aesthetic and not strictly material, evanescent and not quantifiable, is characterized by an extraordinary and micro-calibrated sort of viciousness. And of course we all know people like this, people who expend great quantities of capital in these economies of cool, for whom the performance of a given enthusiasm is likely to be more knife-fight than impromptu symposium. A place like Brooklyn, for example, does not want for specimens. (Nor for that matter, I am here to tell you, does the academy.) But for all the cultural-studies hate directed at the hipster demographic in just these terms – the arraignments of hipster kids as living, subway-congesting emblems of aesthetic choice as vehicle for invidious distinction (I’m in, you’re out) – still I would want to say that such an approach seems to me less wrong than partial, an unviably delimited way of understanding what it is that transpires between ourselves, the objects of our devotion, and the social world we create with and around our languages of devotion. Here’s what I mean: when I see kids bedecked in the accoutrements of a given emerging micro-style, I do not default to the language of affectation, because that language, whatever its latent critical acuity, seems to me to misapprehend the other qualities – the ardor, the generous enthusiasms – that might in that moment be finding their expression.
So when I hear people fighting about some new band I don’t know, or what’s awesome and why, or what’s an abomination and why, I don’t necessarily hear in that clamorousness the perseverance of some economy of cool that in its relentless hierarchy mirrors with eerie, sad precision the system of late-phase capitalism in which it is enmeshed. That fighting, this talking: these are also, often, love songs. In them are the residues of moments of exhilaration and delightedness so captivating that they want only to amplify and extend themselves. What you can hear in such talking is the sound of people learning, or remembering, how to be in love: in love with the possibilities of objects, in love with the possibilities of other people, and in love with the possibilities of the scene of belonging that loving things in this garrulous way is always making and unmaking. Part of what’s so exhilarating, too, is that in this scene of talk, there are no experts, only enthusiasts and co-conspirators. There, where we’re all frauds and hustlers, the world cracks open a little bit, and even a band as precious and yacht-rocky as Steely Dan – Steely Dan! – can find a place at the table of joy.
Peter Coviello is a professor of English at Bowdoin College, where he talks mostly about Whitman, joy, Mormon polygamy, and American literature. His newest book is Long Players: A Love Story in Eighteen Songs.
More by Peter Coviello
More Reads
Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates and special offers.
The List
Submissions
issues
Advertising
After a half decade away, The Believer is returning to McSweeney’s this fall. Subscribe today and be one of the very first to receive our deluxe homecoming issue
| 18,368 |
An innovative, ultra-fast mechatronic circuit breaker has been specially developed for HVDC networks. It is crucial for protection of the grid and paves the way for continental-scale, meshed DC networks.
2 comments
Prev Next
Grid operators increasingly use high voltage direct current (HVDC) to carry high power efficiently over long distances. A prime reason is that for such high power long-distance links, direct current (DC) is superior to alternating current (AC) because it can transmit power without capacitive or inductive losses.
DC converter stations also improve the stability of the associated AC networks by decoupling the frequency and phase of those networks. HVDC links are therefore very useful in stabilising grids challenged by a growing contribution of power from distributed and intermittent sources such as wind or solar energy.
A key element in power networks is the circuit breaker. Its role is to protect the network. It prevents failures and blackouts by rapidly cutting the current in a malfunctioning element (following a lightning strike, or the breakage of an undersea cable, for example). In this way it isolates the fault from the rest of the grid. Circuit breakers are vital to protect complex interconnected grids, be they AC or DC.
Circuit breaker technology for AC grids is generally regarded as mature, and Alstom is among the world leaders in the field. However, there have been few technical answers in the case of DC grids, until now. One major technical challenge is fault current that does not stop rising. “With DC, there is no natural current zero. The DC breaker must perform two duties: first it opposes a voltage to stop the fault current rise and second it absorbs excess energy from the network to bring the current to zero,” explains Wolfgang Grieshaber, research engineer and head of the DC Circuit Breaker & New Solutions group in Alstom Grid’s ARC Technology Centre in Villeurbanne (France). In AC networks, the current is periodically driven through zero (100 times a second for a 50 Hz network), and current zero is the ideal instant to interrupt. “To be used for direct current interruption, the circuit breaker has to perform 10 to 20 times faster than in AC grids.” Current interruption in DC networks must therefore be done very precisely and much more rapidly.
Together with partners from various countries, working collaboratively on the European TWENTIES (1) project (see sidebar 1 at the end of this article), Alstom designed a 120 kV DC circuit breaker demonstrator suitable for operation in a meshed network. It underwent a series of specific tests inspired by IEC standards for HVAC breakers. “One technological option was to adapt an existing DC-breaker product that is used in HVDC point-to-point connection,” says Grieshaber. “However, with break times in the range of 27 ms to 40 ms, this type of breaker is relatively slow because its main component is a conventional AC arc chamber.” Another option was to associate power electronics with an ultra-fast disconnector. “This is the option that was chosen for the demonstrator because it has low on-state losses, a very short break time and is totally SF6- free.”
These insights – and three years of R&D – led Alstom to deploy some of its existing technologies as a springboard from which to develop the Ultra-Fast Mechatronic Circuit Breaker (UFMCB), a DC circuit breaker (DC-CB) prototype comprising the following main components arranged in a three-parallel-branch design (see figure below):
a mechanical part, which acts as an ultra-fast disconnector (interrupter);
a second part that includes power electronics components (capacitors and thyristors) which pilot the current flow in the parallel branches;
and a surge arrester to dissipate the excess energy of the network as part of the interruption.
“The UFMCB’s operating principle is to commutate the current in steps, first from the ‘low impedance branch’ to the ‘auxiliary branch’ and then into the ‘extinguishing branch’; internal breaker commutations are based on generating a reverse current to oppose the network current,” explains Grieshaber.
(1) TWENTIES: Transmission system operation with a large penetration of Wind and other renewable electricity sources in Electricity Networks using innovative Tools and Integrated Energy Solutions.
Building blocks of the DC-CB. From top to bottom: a two-phase disconnector, the low-impedance branch consisting of power electronics (PE1) and an ultra-fast disconnecting switch, the auxiliary branch with power electronics (PE2), a surge arrester as energy absorber.
This innovative technology was first tested on a medium voltage version before scaling it up to the high voltage DC-CB demonstrator. In the future it is expected that this technology will be used for HVDC grids connecting multiple offshore wind farms to the coast. Tests were conducted in close cooperation with RTE, the French power network operator (see sidebar 2 at the end of this article). “During the tests under the real operational constraints of a high voltage DC transmission grid, the prototype successfully interrupted a 5,200 ampere current at 160 kV with full current extinction in 5 milliseconds,” says Grieshaber. All tests were witnessed by independent bodies. The ultimate test, validating the power switching performance, was conducted on November 29, 2013 in the presence of representatives from RTE, Red Electrica España, TenneT and a European Commission project officer.
4_A major step in building the Supergrid
Some additional improvements are still needed to enrich or complete the circuit breaker’s functionalities, extend its performance range and facilitate its interface with grids. Even so, this prototype opens the door to the development of Ultra-Fast Mechatronic Circuit Breakers suitable for any DC transmission voltages.
“We see this innovative breaker as a very cost-effective solution, since it offers many advantages such as the ability to partition a network into sub-networks.” As Grieshaber states: “All these results represent a major step towards realising the Supergrid, which will effectively integrate renewable energy sources and enable power trade and bulk supply across continents.”
Why faults occurring in a DC grid must be cleared as fast as possible.
Meshed DC networks are still in the research and development stage, since only point-to-point or radial multi-terminal DC links are in operation so far. Therefore, several possible design strategies can be studied for HVDC networks, depending on integrating existing DC links with different voltages or not. In the latter option, i.e., when the whole network is operated at a single DC voltage level, one possibility is to design a DC grid in the same way as an AC grid: DC substations would be connected together in a meshed configuration, each DC overhead line or cable being protected by a DC breaker at each end. AC generator units and loads would be seen through AC/DC converters whose technology and design could influence the behaviour of the DC grid.
“The similarities stop there,” explains Lucas Violleau, Circuit Breaker Engineering Specialist at RTE, the French power transmission operator. “AC grids can face faults for hundreds of milliseconds before losing their stability, because a large amount of kinetic energy is stored in generator units with high inertia. In a DC grid the energy reserve is smaller than in AC grids and is only made up from the system capacitance and inductance. When a pole-to-pole fault occurs, the voltage collapses in less than 10 ms. To avoid a complete DC network outage, the fault must be cleared as fast as possible in that period of time. This requires high-performance direct current circuit breakers, especially for meshed DC grids with high short-circuit currents as demonstrated in the TWENTIES project.”
The TWENTIES project: increase the share of renewables
The TWENTIES project was co-funded by the European Commission’s seventh Framework Programme. When launched in 2010, its objective was to leverage real-life, large-scale demonstrations to pinpoint the benefits of and demonstrate a number of critical technologies by 2013. The technologies in question are those aimed at improving the pan-European transmission network (a.k.a. the ‘Supergrid’). At the same time, they will give Europe a capability to include an increasing share of renewables in its energy mix but maintain its level of reliability performance. One of the TWENTIES project demonstrations addressed the technical challenges around the implementation of meshed HVDC networks, which hold the promise of major benefits.
X
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory
Connectez-vous
Username or e-mail address *
You may login with either your assigned username or your e-mail address.
The password field is case sensitive.
OK
Forgot your password? Click here
Don't have an account? Sign up
Grid Solutions SAS as data controller is accountable for the data processing. The purpose of the data processing is to regularly inform Think Grid readers about the publication of new articles. The recipients of the data are Grid Solutions SAS and Grid Solutions SAS’s publication agency. You have at any time a right to unsubscribe or to access and modify your personal information by writing to the following address: think.grid@ge.com.
| 9,581 |
While we will observe seasonal hours November through April, exceptions will be made for student groups.
Please contact the museum to plan your visit!
In-School Education
Stay tuned for more exciting information about
in-school programming!
The Tom Morris Library Collection is part of the history and DNA of the National Sailing Hall of Fame. The collection honors the late Tom Morris and his lifetime as sailor, boat builder, and innovator. Born in Philadelphia, he extended a family tradition started in 1886 of summer vacations in Maine with his family, and at the age of 32 succumbed to his passion for sailing to start building sailboats. The natural beauty of Mt. Desert Island, its down-east traditions, and a rich history of boat building were the perfect complement to his passion for sailing. Tom launched Morris Yachts in 1972 in his backyard where he built his first boat, a Friendship Sloop for friends James and Marsha Wilmerding of Northeast Harbor. He collaborated with designer Chuck Paine of Tenants Harbor in 1973, and together they forged a vision of beauty that led to Morris Yachts to be recognized as one of the most prestigious yacht builders in the country. One of the company’s slogans, “Each One an Owner’s Original” was backed up by Tom’s close involvement in the building process. Tom graduated from Babson Institute. He served in the National Guard with distinction and was a life member of the First City Troop of Philadelphia, George Washington’s founding troop. He was a member of the Society of the Cincinnati and the Cruising Club of America. Naming the National Sailing Hall Library in Tom’s honor is an appropriate way to commemorate his values and his contributions to sailing.
While select volumes may be found in The Mosbacher Room, the preponderance of The Tom Morris Library Collection now makes its home with our partner and neighbor, IYRS School of Technology & Trades. The Edward W. Kane and James Gubelmann IYRS Maritime Library is the largest maritime library in the State of Rhode Island. Members of The Sailing Museum benefit from the special privilege of borrowing books from the library.
“Sailing has a home that trumpets its achievements and inspires generations to excel on the water, and to serve the sport. The memorable moments in our sport are countless, and unless there is a common place to preserve these memories, we’re in danger of losing the relevance of sailing’s past and future. “
Hall of Famer & Board Member
© John Payne Photography
We could not do this without support!
Thanks to these amazing Founding Members and Donors.
Supporter
Join in the Support…
Sailing has a long history, and a tradition that prepares and propels us to go forward. Each of us has learned valuable life lessons on the water, made relationships that last a lifetime and experienced the challenges, and joy, that come from sailing. This is a legacy we have the ability, and privilege, to pass on to others. The Sailing Museum will bring incredible people and inspiring stories from across the country into ONE place that is accessible to all.
| 3,271 |
Sign in
Books
Reviews aren't verified, but Google checks for and removes fake content when it's identified
Write review
About this book
Terms of Service
trary observations, which lead us to reverence its inscrutable mysteries.
This great reputation, of which she so justly was possessed, was at last, however, the occasion of her ruin.
The person who then possessed the patriarchate of Alexandria, was equally remarkable for his violence, cruelty, and pride. Conducted by an ill-grounded zeal for the Christian religion, or, perhaps, desirous of augmenting his authority in the city, he had long meditated the banishment of the Jews. A difference arising between them and the Christians with respect to some public games, seemed to him a proper juncture for putting his ambitious designs into execution. He found no difficulty in exciting the people, naturally disposed to revolt. The prefect, who at that time commanded the city, interposed on this occasion, and thought it just to put one of the chief creatures of the patriarch to the torture, in order to discover the first promoter of the conspiracy. The patriarch, enraged at the injustice he thought offered to his character and dignity, and piqued at the protection which was offered to the Jews, sent for the chiefs of the synagogue, and enjoined them to renounce their designs, upon pain of incurring his highest displeasure.
The Jews, far from fearing his menaces, excited new tumults, in which several citizens had the misfortune to fall. The patriarch could no longer contain: at the head of a numerous body of Christians, he flew to the synagogues, which he demolished, and drove the Jews from a city, of which they had been possessed since the times of Alexander the Great. It may be easily imagined, that the prefect could not behold, without pain, his jurisdiction thus insulted, and the city deprived of a number of its most industrious inhabitants.
The affair was therefore brought before the emperor. The patriarch complained of the excesses of the Jews, and the prefect of the outrages of the patriarch. At this very juncture, five hundred monks of mount Nitria, imagining the life of their chief to be in danger, and that their religion was threatened in his fall, flew into the city with ungovernable rage, attacked the prefect in the streets, and, not content with loading him with reproaches, wounded him in several places.
The citizens had, by this time, notice of the fury of the monks; they, therefore, assembled in a body, put the monks to flight, seized on him who had been found throwing a stone, and delivered him to the prefect, who caused him to be put to death without further delay.
The patriarch immediately ordered the dead body, which had been exposed to view, to be taken down, procured for it all the pomp and rites of burial, and went even so far as himself to pronounce the funeral oration, in which he classed a seditious monk among the martyrs. This conduct was by no means generally approved of; the most moderate even among the Christians perceived and blamed his indiscretion; but he was now too far advanced to retire. He had made several overtures towards a reconciliation with the prefect, which not succeeding, he bore all those an implacable hatred whom he imagined to have any hand in traversing his designs; but Hypasia was particularly destined to ruin. She could not find pardon, as she was known to have a most refined friendship for the prefect; wherefore the populace were incited against her. Peter, a reader of the principal church, one of those vile slaves by which men in power are too frequently attended, wretches ever ready to commit any crime which they hope render them agreeable to their employer; this fellow,
may
I
say, attended by a crowd of villains, waited for Hypasia, as she was returning from a visit, at her own door, seized her as she was going in, and dragged her to one of the churches called Cesarea, where, stripping her in a most inhuman manner, they exercised the most inhuman cruelties upon her, cut her into pieces, and burnt her remains to ashes. Such was the end of Hypasia, the glory of her own sex, and the astonishment of ours.
LYSIPPUS is a man whose greatness of soul the whole world admires. His generosity is such, that it prevents a demand, and saves the receiver the trouble and the confusion of a request. His liberality also does not oblige more by its greatness than by his inimitable grace in giving. Sometimes he even distributes his bounties to strangers, and has been known to do good offices to those who professed themselves his enemies. All the world are unanimous in the praise of his generosity: there is only one sort of people who complain of his conduct-Lysippus does not pay his debts.
It is no difficult matter to account for a conduct so seemingly incompatible with itself. There is greatness in being generous, and there is only simple justice in satisfying his creditors. Generosity is the part of a soul raised above the vulgar. There is in it something of what we admire in heroes, and praise with a degree of rapture. Justice, on the contrary, is a mere mechanic virtue, fit only for tradesmen, and what is practised by every broker in Change Alley.
In paying his debts, a man barely does his duty, and it is an action attended with no sort of glory. Should Lysippus satisfy his creditors, who would be at the pains of telling it to the world? Generosity is a virtue of a very different complexion. It is raised above duty, and from its elevation attracts the attention, and the praises, of us little mortals below.
In this manner do men generally reason upon justice and generosity. The first is despised, though a virtue essential to the good of society; and the other attracts our esteem, which too frequently proceeds from an impetuosity of temper, rather directed by vanity than reason. Lysippus is told that his banker asks a debt of forty pounds, and that a distressed acquaintance petitions for the same sum. He gives it without hesitating to the latter; for he demands as a favour what the former requires as a debt.
Mankind in general are not sufficiently acquainted with the import of the word justice: it is commonly believed to consist only in a performance of those duties to which the laws of society can oblige us. This I allow is sometimes the import of the word, and in this sense justice is distinguished from equity; but there is a justice still more extensive, and which can be shown to embrace all the virtues united.
Justice may be defined to be that virtue which impels us to give to every person what is his due. In this extended sense of the word, it comprehends the practice of every virtue which reason prescribes, or society should expect. Our duty to our Maker, to each other, and to ourselves, are fully answered, if we give them what we owe them. Thus justice, properly speaking, is the only virtue, and all the rest have their origin in it.
The qualities of candour, fortitude, charity, and generosity, for instance, are not, in their own nature, virtues; and if ever they deserve the title, it is owing only to justice, which impels and directs them. Without such a moderator, candour might become indiscretion, fortitude obstinacy, charity imprudence, and generosity mistaken profusion.
A disinterested action, if it be not conducted by justice, is at best indifferent in its nature, and not unfrequently even turns to vice. The expenses of society, of presents, of entertainments, and the other helps to cheerfulness, are actions merely indifferent, when not repugnant to a better method of disposing of our superfluities; but they become vicious when they obstruct or exhaust our abilities from a more virtuous disposition of our circumstances.
True generosity is a duty as indispensably necessary as those imposed upon us by law. It is a rule imposed upon us by reason, which should be the sovereign law of a rational being. But this generosity does not consist in obeying every impulse of humanity, in following blind passion for our guide, and impairing our circumstances by present benefactions, so as to render us incapable of future
Misers are generally characterized as men without honour or without humanity, who live only to accumulate, and to this passion sacrifice every other happiness. They have been described as madmen, who, in the midst of abundance, banish every pleasure, and make from imaginary wants real necessities. But few, very few, correspond to this exaggerated picture; and, perhaps, there is not one in whom all these circumstances are found united. Instead of this, we find the sober and the industrious branded by the vain and the idle with this odious appella
| 9,151 |
Ho hum, the rain has come. It’s the last day of summer but instead of going out in a blaze of glory, the heavens weep for its passing.
Venzone presents a beehive of activity. A Saturday market we’re hoping, but it turns out to be a 110th anniversary celebration. I’m not quite sure of what, but clearly 1908 was an important year. The internet and posters offer no clues. The men are dressed in green felt hats with jaunty feathers – the posters tell us there’s a day full of celebrations planned.
There’s time for a last look through the village. A sachet of local lavender has to be purchased – the first one I’ve found that’s as intensely scented as the lavender grown in Provence.
We also find a building destroyed by the earthquake, preserved in memorium. It’s a sobering insight into the devastation wrecked upon the village in 1976.
Just before midday we’re on the road, Slovenia bound, with the challenges of heavy rain and finding an ATM deep in the countryside before we leave Italy.
The last one we tried said “service not available”, causing a small flurry of panic. We have success eventually, just before we cross.
Our bank does not have a reciprocal arrangement in Slovenia and there’s always then the risk that a card might not come back out if used in a non reciprocal ATM.
We cross into Slovenia mid afternoon, at Kranjska Gora in the ski fields, but the rain prevents us from exploring.
Trapped indoors, I dive into the new JK Rowling Cormoran Strike novel, Chris is knee deep in Stranger Things.
I have time to ponder on the irony of not understanding the local language. Whilst I can hold my own for the basics in Italy, Germany, Spain and France, the moment we crossed into Slovenia, the language became incomprehensible.
I was born in Bosnia Herzegovina, and lived there until I was almost 6. Clearly by that age I was fluent but when we came to Australia, the focus was absolute: learn English, speak English, do well in school. Succeed. It’s here my personal mantra of “failure is not an option” was forged. I still remember a few awful first weeks of school, being made stand in a corner for most of the morning as punishment for not being able to recite the morning prayer, in English. Of which I knew not a single word. Having no prior experience of being in school, it didn’t occur to me this was unusual, nor to protest for a while. I still wonder what the teacher thought of my mother’s tirade in Yugoslav when she final found out. Luckily it resulted in me being transferred to a new school where they were much better equipped to deal with migrant children. It also helped that kids are like sponges at that age – new language skills are aquired easily. Within a few months, I was fluent.
Interestingly, when I left home at 18, whilst I hadn’t spoken the language in years, I was still fluent – a room full of Yugoslav chat was perfectly comprehensible. It wasn’t until some 10 or so years later I realised I’d lost the ability to understand, much to my surprise. My Yugoslav was lost bar a few childhood words. All animal related. Well what else would they be? My happy places were the same, even then. My brief period of schoolgirl German meanwhile, completely intact. Like I said, ironic, no?
In my childhood, Yugoslavia was a united country – the individual countries we know now were socialist republics under united communist rule. The country disintegrated in 1992 during an horrific war as the world watched on. It was the first time I didn’t have to explain where Bosnia was to anyone who sought my provenance. Far removed, I watched on with the rest of the world. My parents, especially my father who still had family there, suffered more. People were uprooted, made homeless. Killed.
So many mixed feelings about being on this soil again. Inexorably tied in with the devastating loss of my father, who never made it back to his beloved family or homeland. It’s hard to contain them all, trapped inside in the rain on a cold Saturday afternoon, trying to busy myself with a book.
Related
For nine months of the year it's all work, work, work, but the pay off is three months motorhoming in Europe each year. These are my stories.
Tracy Neldner on September 25, 2018 at 7:57 am
Sending love to you my Puss, remember all those wonderful times with Buc and his enduring patience and kindness, much molded I’m sure from his own experiences and love of family in his home land. I drove past the Highway Inn last week and fondly remembered the times when he had kindly picked us up & taxied us home after a night out – laughing with us about our antics and stories of the evening. He would not want you his darling girl to be sad for him, hold the happy times in your heart and remember the love & much laughter that surrounded him. Sending my love your Poss xoxox
| 5,006 |
Have you ever wondered why, a lot of times, you just can’t seem to make progress in life despite the fact that you know so much about what it takes to succeed? There just seems to be a gap between what you know and what you actually do. I call this The Gap Between Knowledge and Action. That is the title of this message: The Gap Between Knowledge and Action.
Over the years, I have gotten many enquiries through my website called Motivation for Dreamers from people who feel frustrated and unable to progress in life. Quite a few indicated that they have read a lot of different personal development and motivational materials over the years and acquired a wealth of knowledge in this way. But, for some reason, they just couldn’t get past reading or listening to such materials to actually living the life they desired.
Often this was accompanied by a sense of frustration and the feeling that perhaps such things just don’t work, or at least not for them. That is usually how we get to feel when there is a gap between our knowledge and our actions. It’s when you know what to do and how to do it, but you just can’t get to actually doing it.
I have attended or listened to many seminars myself over the years. In many cases they were great seminars, giving really useful information. But I noticed that in all likelihood, most people attending the seminar would put the seminar materials on their shelves afterwards and pretty much not act on the information, even though at the time they received it they were very enthusiastic and excited about it. But somehow, as the days go by the routines of daily life get in the way and the initial zeal just dies out.
It was a coaching session that I came to realize what exactly that gap was. I found out that the missing ingredient is usually:
Or rather I should say, it is a lack of clarity that keeps us stuck in a certain pattern. By lack of clarity I mean three basic things:
- Lack of Focus
By far the biggest obstacle to taking action is your fears. These may be fears that you are aware of, but quite often it is fears that you may not even be consciously aware of. For example, like many people you might like to start a business and have a lot of business ideas in this regard, but maybe you find yourself unable to take the next step. Something holds you back. Until you recognise and deal with that issue you may find yourself stuck.
I know of a person that had such a problem. She had gone into business several times and nothing seemed to have worked out. During one coaching session, she discovered what was holding her back.
You see, this lady’s parents had divorced when she was very young. After the divorce, she lived with her mother who was not wealthy. Her father, on the other hand, was wealthy and would get her expensive gifts and generally provide for her materially. Well, through coaching, she discovered that she was actually sabotaging her chances of success because to her, being wealthy meant being like her Dad. She felt that by being wealthy she would be betraying her mother who was not wealthy. So although outwardly and logically she was in business to make money, inwardly, she was afraid to make money, because she felt it would make her like her like the person she did not want to be-her father.
It is important to be clear on what your fears are. They are by far the biggest obstacle that you have to deal with in order to move ahead and succeed. The example I have given also illustrates that knowing the origins of our fears is very important in dealing with them.
You may know what your fears are, but may not be clear on the reason you feel that way. The answer usually lies in the origin of the fear. Coaching and counselling can help you dig deeper and understand yourself better with respect to your fears.
The second obstacle is Powerlessness. Powerlessness occurs when you are living in a state of low power. In this state you will find that you generally feel less energetic, blame yourself or others, are judgmental of self and others and at times even angry.
The best way I would describe this state is the feeling of having a weight on your shoulder, or a feeling of heaviness in your chest or heart, particularly when you think about your future and your plans. It can be such a drag and every step can take so much effort.
Part of the answer to dropping this weight lies in learning to let go of the negative things in your life. Once you do, you are able to move ahead to a state of higher power. When you are in a state of higher power you let go of blame, judgment, anger and negativity. You drop that weight from off your shoulders or loose those bands that are constricting your heart and mind.
Then you begin to feel refreshed and light. It becomes easier to move ahead without the clutter of negativity. In a state of higher power wisdom and intuition are more accessible to you. The process of letting go of such judgments, blame and negativity need not be a lengthy or difficult one. It just needs to be focused and deliberate. Again, coaching can be very useful in this area. There are even some self coaching tools, such as the Brain Walk, that can help you in this regard. Using the Brain Walk once a day for five to ten minutes, for example, you can energise yourself and get yourself in a state of higher power easily.Another thing that can help you to get to a state of higher power is your spirituality. We often neglect prayer and reading God’s Word, but they are the easiest and cheapest means of getting rid of negativity, blame and judgment of self and others. Meditate on God’s word and pray earnestly. The Bible says the “effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” It will avail you the power you need and give you the courage to move forward without fear and heaviness.
Lack of Focus
Once you have recognised and let go of your fears and are in a state of higher power, you need to add Focus in order to move from knowledge to action. By focus, I mean your vision in life. What is it that you want to do with your life?
Part of the reason that knowledge you have is not being put to use may be that there is nothing for you to focus it on. There is nothing pulling you in a certain direction. So today if I tell you about investing in real estate you will be really excited about it, and tomorrow if I tell you about multilevel marketing you will be really excited about that too. The result is that you be pulled in many directions and end up remaining stationary despite your unfocused efforts.
Acting consistently and towards the right purpose is important. Work out your vision. Work out your purpose. Be clear on what you want in life.
Once you do it becomes easy to say no to things that will not add value to you. It becomes easier to say no to distractions and you will then know what knowledge you need to acquire and concentrate on in order to reach your destination.
I hope you have enjoyed reading these inspirational speeeches as much as I enjoyed writing and giving them.
One of the keys to giving good inspirational speeches is to rehearse the speech very well in advance until you are absolutley comfortable with it, which I always do a coupkle of times.
If you want more inspirational speeches take a look at this one as well. Have you written or given any inspirational speeches yourself? Why not share them? You can send in your inspirational speeches using the form on this page. HOME
All original images ©Moses Chikoti Photography. If you would like to know how you can build your own website like this one visit the link below.
Other Books By Dr. Moses:
"How To Let Go of Fear and Embrace Prosperity"
In the POWER PRINCIPLES series of books, Dr. Moses Simuyemba, "Africa's Success Coach", shares his knowledge, experience and insight to help you in overcoming your personal challenges and limitations and inspire you towards the life you desire and deserve: a life of greater purpose, free of fear and full of abundance.
| 8,274 |
For persons living in America at this time, our fate seems in the hands of everything but the conditions which portions of this writing idealize and invoke. As the ancient teachings of the Tarot help identify archetypes and their purpose, the current developments in this nation compel us to understand the meaning and presence of the high-office-seeker archetypes of this time.
While the Divine Plan and purpose of this period of America’s history are not yet fully revealed, the soul-powered consciousness of persons finding this writing is obviously and urgently needed. Our assignment is to bring forth and manifest an alternative to that which has been like a gathering storm.
We surely have weathered worse storms. Many lifetimes have prepared us for “the fierce urgency of now,” which the visionary Martin Luther King invoked at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963. Yet, as members of a collective that has steadily replaced principles and violated values, many of us sat on the sidelines because others had the power and resources.
We have long been observers of this old model of power – a model of leadership in decline even in 1978, when Russian dissident and hero Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn said in his Harvard commencement address that with its withering values, America no longer produced statesmen. By continually abusing power and disproportionately allotting resources, this nation “of the people … and for the people” was committing serial denial of the First Principle of the Aquarian Age: The greatest good for the greatest number.
As a result, the old model is now divinely self-destructing, leaving those of us who have a certain Cosmic assignment, to create alternatives with the very energies that are in default. We must therefore boldly claim whichever parts of those reconstituted energies have been allocated to each of us to make the world better, not the ego greater.
This writing affirms that Cosmic Call. It is time to summon the fierce courage to BE in accordance with our highest guidance; our highest principles, qualities and values; and our deepest commitment to fully manifesting our purpose and our potential. The energy is there. It is waiting to be claimed.
The current collapsing of corrupt, self-serving hierarchies prepares their energies to be dispatched into the Cosmos, to be recalibrated never again to serve ego enrichment and power hungering, and then to be redirected back to the Earth plane to create equitable, sustainable alternatives. Those energies are to be entrusted to and stewarded by world servers whose qualities – such as love, truth, courage, fairness, integrity, accountability, compassion, and balance – assure that the transformed energies will be utilized as divinely intended.
“Archetypes and the American Presidency” confirms an important passage in the redistribution of power and resources so described: a period long referred to as the dawning of a new age, a return to harmony and understanding, with truth and sympathy abounding, resounding with a promised healing from strife of all sorts and sources.
This writing series is designed to ignite the destiny and potential within each soul it reaches. As ancient teachings have assured: “When it is intended that you walk through a pounding waterfall, as you take the steps, the passageway will appear.” No longer a time for hesitating, this writing affirms that the Cosmic Call has sounded. The guidance will manifest so long as we take the steps that the following words inspire:
There is no greater purpose, no greater challenge,
than to reclaim the divine right of our potential.
It is bequeathed by the Universe, administered by the soul,
and urgently needed on this planet we call home.
Let us therefore call forth, in all space and time,
the truth of who we are, what we know,
and what we are to do.
~ from Reclaiming the Authentic Self
An autopsy of the American presidency would show that the first shot, which struck the head, was fired on April 14, 1865. “Four score and seven years” were indeed testing whether any nation so conceived could long endure.
Almost a hundred years later, the presidency suffered another mortal head wound, after which conspiracy theories abounded despite 888 pages of investigation overseen by the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. This nation, unable to find peace in the truth, was besieged by a pandemic of untruth, strains of which have by now spread with uncontrollable, incalculable proportions and consequences.
More recent self-inflicted wounds further tore apart the American body politic: Vietnam, Watergate, Iran Contra, Lewinsky, Mission Accomplished, and a leadership vacuum through which a 1929 repeat almost crashed again. As a result, that body is now on life support. A gifted man turned into politician did try to stop the inevitable, but too many arteries vital to functioning were blocked. Too much self-serving lined the halls and pockets of the 114th Congress and its predecessors. The perfect path was thus opened to invasion by an outsider masquerading as a politician wearing the mask of a fool.
And how fitting. The whole system must start all over again anyway, its leadership having reached near-mockery. But first the system must collapse, which process it has officially commenced. Since 2000, when preoccupation with Y2K distracted from the real threats, the official decline of American “politics as usual” has been tracking the steps hidden in the ancient teachings of the Tarot Major Arcana.
It is to that wisdom that this series is dedicated.
Tarot Zero signifies the first step in the evolution of human consciousness. Its Arabic number represents the Universe and the ever-turning, ever-evolving wheel of life.
Amidst 21 other cards in the deck that bear Roman numerals, the subtlety of the number difference designating The Fool is truly esoteric. The Zero, the Universe, flows among all the messages and lessons represented throughout the Tarot teachings. Indeed, the matrix of the evolution of human consciousness can be likened to an enormous Rubik’s cube: infinite cubicles with infinite matrixes-within-matrixes whirling within each one, cube after cube, matrix after matrix, ad infinitum.
The Universe/Creator Consciousness filled all those cubicles with the lessons humanity must experience in its consciousness quest to reach enlightenment: a seamless connection to truth, which creates the conduit to the Universe/Creator/God. To facilitate that Earth-bound evolutionary journey, the Universe activates which lesson at which moment which human is to experience. Thus, the role and capacity of The Fool: the Zero – the Universe launching a new series of lessons to elevate the consciousness of a person; or, in a macro-consciousness manner, the consciousness of a nation, an aggregate such as an economy or a corporation, a collective behavior like addiction or abuse.
Always it is the Zero that activates; and in the matrix of the Tarot teachings, The Fool commences countless journeys through consequences in pursuit of truth.
The originating card is titled The Fool because the representative figure looks like he is totally unprepared for the challenges of a life on the Earth plane. Sparsely clad and carrying but a small knapsack shouldered on a walking stick, with a small canine companion by his side, the card shows that The Fool has reached the top of a mountain range. But as his next step is poised to plunge him into an abyss, instead of looking forward, The Fool looks up, his countenance clearly unconcerned. He knows that the divine guidance that led him to this peak will safely take him to the next one. And so he prepares to step into apparent nothingness, signifying the meaning of Tarot Zero: Trust.
“Only a fool would take such risk,” a mundane scholar might conclude, but students of ancient wisdom see a different message. Knowing how the Universe works, they recognize the symbology of the picture that depicts the beginning, and continuation, of the journey of life, evolution and consciousness, purpose and potential, all in accordance with the Divine Plan.
The Fool embodies the path, and way, to fulfilling purpose and unleashing potential: acknowledge the Source, follow its guidance, and resist substituting the ego’s options for the Creator’s. That choice exists, the ego knows; but it leads to consequences… which the ego learns and learns and learns until it masters truth and no longer requires consequences as a teacher.
The informed student of the wisdom of the ages recognizes that The Fool’s unconditional trust of Universal principles has successfully brought him to many lofty peaks, principally by transcending humanity’s most formidable weapon against truth: doubt.
Throughout his 22-step journey, The Fool follows the first principle of Universal Truths: The Creator has allocated all the resources needed along the path IT created for each human’s consciousness evolution. Having mastered that principle from lifetimes spent in the Truth OR Consequences karmic model, The Fool knows, without doubt, that truth always reveals the highest path and, ever so impeccably, the steps along the way. The Fool also knows that to disregard truth ensures consequences… thus the OR in the Truth Or Consequences model.
Accordingly, at this 2016 Earth moment in the era of consciousness evolution, truth is humanity’s greatest challenge… the consequences of having denied truth now looming large.
Although consequences aggregate in multiples of layers, The Fool epitomizes the simplicity of truth. He needs very little from the mundane plane. His attunement to the divine is all he “needs,” and the conduit for that attunement is what humanity calls truth: the word used to describe the quality and quantity of information coming to the human ego from the Creator Consciousness by way of the soul.
As such, truth is the energy that evolves human consciousness. It is the impulse behind each choice that elevates the ego’s awareness instead of sending the ego into the density of lessons, karma and consequences. The Fool thus reflects the outcome of mastery sought by the human ego – that journey revealed by the very first card in the Tarot to inspire the human ego to know there is divine guidance for the Earth journey; to seek divine guidance for every step of that journey; and to thereby experience a soul-directed life manifested by a soul-directed self.
Following the beginning card Zero, other cards in the Major Arcana depict the various steps the human ego must pass through and master in order to accomplish its greatest capacity for truth through the merger of ego and soul: the fourth level of consciousness that disburses truth to the ego from the Creator Consciousness by way of intuition.
Due to the consequences now amassed on Planet Earth, the human collective is finally coming closer to that merger. But the many monuments to the ego’s infidelity to truth must first be dismantled – a process accelerated particularly in this year 2016, apropos of Tarot Sixteen: The Tower.
The year 2000 commenced an intensified excursion through the 22 steps of the Major Arcana, for both the individual ego and the collective ego. Marking a quantum step in the Passage of the Ages, this one from Pisces to Aquarius, it was revealed that from 2000 through 2022, human consciousness would encounter relentless representatives of an Ages-old accumulation of karma. That specific melding of karma started in 2001 with the terrorist attack of 9/11. Steadily since then, each year has followed the respective Major Arcana themes, and now it is the year of Tarot XVI – The Tower.
While dozens of Tarot decks portray their cards in many different ways, it is difficult to make the requisite image of The Tower anything but dramatic, because, after completing 15 specific steps – ranging from love and truth to being shown the secrets of the Universe – if the ego is still holding onto unproductive, truth-effacing patterns (such as doubt, which is confronted specifically at Tarot XV), then the 16th step is where the resistance and residue are expunged.
And not particularly gently, as Tarot XVI shows. With Truth represented by a huge lightning bolt striking the big grey tower that represents the human personality, the tower erupts in flames. The gold crown (ego) atop the tower is knocked askew. More flames shoot from the tower windows. Two figures (male and female) tumble frantically, headfirst, toward the ground. Blazing embers fill the black sky, adding to the ominous image portending that some magnitude-of-the-first-order-type of change is at hand.
And indeed, at this time in 2016, the previews of that change are “Now Playing.” The full-length feature is a 21st Century morality play. It includes strong performances by Corruption, Exploitation, Greed, and Abuse of Power. No plot could be more perfect – no protagonist better suited – than The Tower’s favorite occupant, Hindu God Shiva: the legendary Creative Destroyer.
No Cosmic lightweight, this actor knows his lines. He relishes his role. When shown the consequences converging on Planet Earth – environmental, economic, ethical, and emotion-fueled rage – knowing he would be playing alongside his favorite Cosmic co-star, Planet Pluto, Mr. Shiva was ready to reprise his take-no-prisoners part in the “if only this were theater of the absurd” production.
As word of the upcoming Shiva Show spread, those responding to the casting call were recognized worldwide. They included:
Politics, governance, tax laws, wars. Wall Street, wage inequality, healthcare costs, poverty. Deficit spending, budget imbalances, outsourcing, racism. Climate change, wealth distribution, transportation safety, discrimination. Gun laws, drug and alcohol abuse, judicial reform, infrastructure decline. Privacy, student debt, redlining, homelessness. Child abuse, spousal abuse, law enforcement abuse, elder abuse. Social media abuse, animal abuse, clergy abuse, voter registration abuse. Bullying, gang violence, terrorism domestic and abroad. Judgment imbalances, values imbalances, leadership imbalances, mentor and role model imbalances, education inequities, living standard inequities… and a number of supporting characters worthy of dishonorable mention.
“But wait!” Shiva & Company protested. “We are only gods!” Then Pluto, too, chimed in. “And I’m just a planet. Granted,” he added with well-earned aplomb, “I’m a major player in the heavens – being Lord of the Underworld and such – and I admit I am perfect for the part.” But, the duo still insisted. “We need someone on Earth to do the ‘heavy lifting.’”
Luckily, a good man, willing to become a politician whose actions would be lauded only decades later, showed up in the form of a highly evolved soul and dedicated world server: Barack Obama.
Agreeing to accept the assignment of illuminating truths hidden behind the power and esteem of the American presidency, and unveiling diplomatic twists and cloak and dagger turns rumored to have taken out world leaders and rulers, Obama endured the obstructing of the good for the purpose of the perfect collapse of a system rife with wrongs.
On a soul level, this President knew his was a mission of great sacrifice, able to illuminate only a few and eliminate only a few of the conditions steeping his nation further and further into its Shiva Era. And so it all started… with a tea party (of sorts).
Leading up to the watershed 2016, the unrest in America was palpable. The threat to reason was even greater. So the President hunkered down and waited for the unrest to pass. Instead, it built to a roar. The opposition party was emboldened. Quashing Obama’s legislative proposals and refusing his candidates for judgeships and government leadership posts, the scenes made comedy out of comity. World leaders watched, concerned that the Mr. President was not in control.
The unsteady U.S. economy and unreduction of U.S. troops abroad were highlighted alongside the steady rise of caliphates and conquerors, bombers and plotters. Everything was playing out as the perfect storm. The finest product of America’s political system, the President, was to “fail” so that a new worldview could be born and a new Cosmic Contract could be signed.
Shiva and Pluto had already signed on to be the Universe’s emissaries of creative destruction, and after coaxing, their Earth partner agreed to an ego-pummeling as part of the whole production package. Surely Obama never imagined he might relinquish the bully pulpit to the Universe’s choice of fools, Donald Trump. But then, who else could take everything down so quickly, enabling the rebuilding to start so soon?
Obviously gifted and highly evolved in order to be selected to take the next slice into the American body politic, Trump has only fulfilled his purpose: his ego and personality used as a chainsaw instead of a scalpel because the Universe wants this unreality show over quickly. The antithesis of The Fool described earlier, Trump looks up, down, around, and behind everything. Like a magician, he assembles his show based on what he wants the audience to see. The art of his deal-making-turned-political-mastery lies in identifying the rot in a dying political system and crying out to the lifelike body, “I’m here. I’ll fix everything.”
In a certain way, he will. In an uncertain way, he already has. Whether Trump is elected to be President of the United States is a moot point. The political system of Jefferson and Lincoln was gradually deposed. Its successor system now crowns whoever has the money and savvy to exploit Wall Street and K Street along with the marginally informed.
Candidate Hillary Clinton has played the decrepit system well. Assuming that her backroom deals and front-loader rhetoric would work as they always have, she too is the antithesis of The Fool… only in pantsuits. A powerful archetype following in the steps of Meier, Merkel, Aquino, et al, Clinton has highlighted the workings and remnants of a corrupt system and matched it to perfection by vacating authenticity for electionspeak. That may indeed be the road to the White House one more time, so long as she does not trip and fall through the glass ceiling and drag us through a term we would rather forget.
Another old soul, Bernie Sanders, speaks from the heart with a string of strong admonitions and contempt for those who have seemingly “fiddled while Rome burned.” His passion and path perhaps will produce an upset in the status quo. His message about imbalance and inequality certainly has touched a nerve. His qualities offering a stark contrast. And maybe, maybe he will “outlast the outlaws” in what will be, in the words of William Faulkner, a long, hot summer.
All, in their own way, are showing us the paths to The Tower, trodden by The Fool. From the times of the ancients, The Fool has represented everyone: every experience, every success, every sorrow, every joy, every gratitude, every hope gone asunder and every ungood deed gone unpunished. The Fool knows them all. He chose them all in order to experience and eliminate consequences by reaching the point of choosing only truth. That is how the archetypes of Tarot XVI must be viewed and, for their poignant “Onward to The Tower” service, ideally, blessed. Because meanwhile…
For decades, many of us have alluded to burning off karma. Now, karma is the tinder and we are the flame. Karma is about consequences, the default option in the old Truth OR Consequences model. “Know the truth, trust the truth, seek the truth, Be the truth, say the truth, follow the truth.” They all are alternatives to karma. And each time the collective “we” make the higher choice, we are the flame for that moment. We are The Tower burning, casting out ego-indulging lesser choices and refusing to further extend the jeopardy of karma and consequences.
To be a conscious participant in dissolving karma is quite awesome. We are not given the how-to steps, only the not-to steps, along with painful memories of the consequences of the many times we disregarded both truth and our purpose, faltering in the indomitable presence of “If not us, who – and if not now, when?”, and convincing our egos we could defer because we could always will or unwill “whatever,” irrespective of evidence to the contrary.
Tarot XVI is followed by Tarot XVII: The Star, which represents the Introduction to the Aquarian Age. The year 2016 now only half finished, the awarenesses packed into these 365 days are absolutely gripping. The election of a person to preside over this nation is giving all of us a bigger dose of reality, a bigger lump of coal to swallow, than we would like.
So do we cast a vote into a system in shambles? Maybe. Surely. Or maybe not. But probably, because to opt out allows values even more different from ours to prevail. Each of us surely must make a choice this election year according to our own soul’s guidance. And along with that choice comes another responsibility: To revive the system if we can, or remake it if we must, but certainly to know that our own wisdom, presence, leadership, and impact are needed. NOW. As part of a Cosmic Chain that now is igniting, when it is our turn, only we can make the contribution of that certain moment; and only when we fulfill our assignment can the next souls fulfill theirs.
So what might that look like? And what might our voice sound like?
We can inspire with our websites and blogs; write Letters to the Editor, Op-Ed and guest columnist pieces; start discussions at churches or temples; host get-togethers and dinner parties, and start conversations with our friends. We can submit social media commentaries; send emails to our entire address book and let them know what we are thinking, seeing, knowing, concerned about, acting on – and ask them to share and do the same.
This Tower Moment assignment is bigger than any one of us, so there are collective guidelines for how to fulfill the assignment. We must share ideas, expand understanding, and courageously inspire the purpose and potential within each of us so that, in even the smallest of measures, we unleash the truth of who we are, what we know and what we are here to do.
It is part of our Cosmic Contract, and it is our highest contribution to this nation we call home.
Reducing Anger in the Workplace
Archetypes and the American Presidency
2016 Election
Current Events
The American Presidency
anger Clinton Columbine debt deficit derivatives divine economy election family federal reserve friends honesty indigo children killing love mythology orlando politicians presidency rage recession SEC shooting taxes Trump
Dianne is an author of books on spirituality, The Authentic Self, Transforming Anger into Love, and How to Prepare for The Times Ahead.
| 23,795 |
Many of us struggling with addiction have jobs and work environments that are triggering for us. We might be alcoholics working in restaurants and bars. We might work in law firms where cocaine use can run rampant. We might work in retail or in the hospitality industry where many people smoke weed on their breaks. When our work environment is triggering for us, we can find it especially hard to resist our drug of choice. We might need this job to make ends meet. We might not be able to get another job that pays as well or provides the same benefits. We can feel trapped both by our addictions and by our financial circumstances. We can feel as though our jobs are a huge part of our problem with addiction. When our workplace itself endangers our sobriety, we’re in a uniquely difficult position, and it can help us to look more closely at the situation to help ourselves figure out how to cope with it.
The challenges we face are sometimes things that the non-addicts in our lives and/or co-workers don’t understand. Sometimes they take these things for granted. They might not realize how hard it is for us to withstand the temptation of our drug of choice when we see someone else using it. They might feel that they themselves can use in moderation and that they don’t struggle with addiction. They might encourage us to have a drink or do a line. They might pass us a joint. They might have no idea that we even struggle with addiction if we haven’t disclosed this fact to them. They’re unknowingly and unintentionally adding to our struggles, and although it’s not their fault, they can be contributing to our work environments being unhealthy and even dangerous places for us to be.
When We Use Our Workplace as Justification For Our Use
When we’re constantly being triggered in this way at work, sometimes we use our work environment as the excuse we need to keep using. We tell ourselves we can’t quit if we’re surrounded by drug use, so we may as well not even try. We tell ourselves we’ll finally quit our drug of choice when we quit our job. We put off taking our recovery seriously. We might consider talking to a supervisor or someone in human resources so that we can possibly get a transfer to work at a different location or setting that’s less problematic, but then we fail to disclose our dilemma, or our addiction, to anyone who might be able to help us.
Our work environments are among the many lifestyle factors we have to take into account when we’re ready to recover. We owe it to ourselves to have a workplace that suits our needs and supports our sobriety rather than jeopardizing it.
At The Guest House Ocala, we have personal recovery experience and over 12 years in the recovery industry. We have helped countless people recover, and we’re here to help you too. Call 855-483-7800 today for more information. theguesthouseocala.com 3230 Northeast 55th Avenue Silver Springs, FL 34488
Recent Posts
Why Should I Attend Medical Detox?
How Do I Know if I Have Self-Defeating Habits?
Are Some Professions More at Risk Than Others for Substance Abuse?
December 2022
November 2022
October 2022
September 2022
August 2022
July 2022
June 2022
May 2022
April 2022
March 2022
February 2022
January 2022
December 2021
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
September 2019
August 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
December 2018
November 2018
October 2018
September 2018
August 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
March 2018
February 2018
January 2018
December 2017
November 2017
October 2017
September 2017
July 2017
June 2017
May 2017
December 2016
If you or a family member is burdened by trauma-induced, self-destructive behaviors, we encourage you to reach out for help as early as possible. At The Guest House, the admissions process begins with your first phone call. If you believe our services are the right fit, call us today!
| 4,455 |
Retirement date set. This had to be done for I was wasting energy prevaricating. But now I want it to be yesterday. I’ve given myself permission to feel that I’ve had enough. I’ve stopped pretending.
Everything that frustrates and dismays and angers me about parochial ministry in the Church of England—things that I’d kept down in order to do the job—now rises to the surface like methane bubbling from the seabed ready to bring conflagration and catastrophe. How can I direct this energy so that calamitous eruptions will not harm me or those around me? Though some parishioners are uninhibited in telling me what they think of me and what I ought to do, I can’t tell parishioners what I think of them. Well I can, but the fallout would be cosmic.
It’s inevitable that a shrinking and insecure organisation should turn inwards, wagons circling. It feels like what I imagine the last days of the Soviet Union must have felt like. The Politburo gathers on Lenin’s tomb, swaggering in their be-medalled uniforms and über-pompous titles, patting each other on the back in faux bonhomie and watching the parade of institutional paraphernalia. Onlookers, numbers dwindling year by year, are dejected, depressed and increasingly elderly. Party big knobs visit hoi polloi, smell fresh paint, and go from one venue to the next along routes lined by empty facades—Potemkin displays. Meanwhile the great unwashed turn their backs on all this flummery and get on with their lives as best they can.
The Church of England has stopped listening and talking to ordinary people. It now talks only to cult members with words that are unintelligible except to the initiated. It’s self-referential newspeak. Decision makers seem to have the attitudes of the 1950s—OK perhaps an exaggeration, the 1970s then—so people, even their own groupies, ignore them. For someone like me who has put a bit of energy into a civic role, despite not being naturally gifted with hail-fellow-well-met attributes, this is disappointing at best and despairing at worst. And as for the institution’s attitudes to sexuality, I am ashamed to be part of it. Reports of how the institutional church has treated those abused in any way by its minions lead me to wonder if there is deep-seated evil sustaining its protect-the-organisation-at all-costs mentality. The last days of the Soviet Union again.
At a recent church meeting we considered briefly some reasons why men so often find church unappealing. (Yes, I’ve read David Murrow’s Why men hate going to church.) We looked at the choice between making a commitment to a football club and a church. Both provide a sense of community. Both provide ritual. Both provide colour and chanting (words might be different, but I’ve always liked profanity—it’s so euphonic). Both have priests and acolytes. Both provide physical expressions of “worship”. Sport is good for the body, church with its emphasis on chocolate and all things farinaceous, is most definitely not: no wonder so many church people are overweight. But only the church provides finger-wagging moralising that, coming from an organisation so rich in hypocrisy and pretence, is hard to stomach.
Then there’s the sense of competition: winner and loser. Scripture, about which more later, can easily be interpreted as encouraging repression and condemning competition. Now look, girls and boys, we are animals. We are driven to a large extent by testosterone, women too. Competitiveness is hard-wired in. It is not to be suppressed—very dangerous—but channelled. Sport does this. Church does not. People are not stupid—they might not be able to articulate this, but they intuitively know it and make their own choices. (Having written this I admit there’s plenty aggression in the church, much of it passive: don’t sit in my seat, don’t interfere with the flower arrangements, don’t change the hymns, don’t use the crockery in this cupboard unless you’re a member of the Mothers’ Union.)
Of course I think the Christian Gospel—the teaching and example of Jesus—is entirely worth promoting. Its psychological authenticity is unquestionable. That’s one thing that has kept me in the job. That’s why I think everybody could benefit from hearing it. And that’s why to be part of an institution that continually shoots itself in the foot is so frustrating. The other thing that is profoundly authentic about religious experience is liturgy which to my mind is not about worshipping God, but celebrating humanity.
Some clergy complain about the burden of administration. Without doubt it’s worse than it was ten years ago, but it doesn’t even begin to compare with that of a job in the real world. These clerics should just get on with it and shut up. Anyway, as I’ve said before, the wastepaper basket is the handiest accessory in my study. So no, girls and boys, it’s not the volume of administration that is so dispiriting, it’s the futility. It doesn’t lead to change for the better. It doesn’t lead to performance being rewarded in any tangible sense.
Two examples suffice.
Attendance statistics. How many people have joined/left your worshipping community this year? What’s a worshipping community? This is impossible to answer in an inner urban setting with a constant flow of casual visitors, churchyard sleepers, temporary workers, Eastern Europeans who think S Paul’s is RC. How many people aged 60-70? over 70? As if I or anybody else is going asking old women their age.
Mission action plans. Oh God. What do you intend to do over the next year? five years? How will you do it? Who will be in charge? It’s like being back in infants, answering questions set by people less imaginative than you. Sometimes they ask what resources you need—as if they will be provided. Ha bloody ha! I could go on but I’ll stop for the sake of my blood pressure. Every worthwhile development in almost 13 years of my parochial ministry has been serendipitous. Not one could have been planned for.
I suppose these things keep people employed in diocesan offices, checking up. Lichfield diocese is on the whole reasonable (Derby was grim), but it feels as if one is living in a totalitarian regime keeping apparatchiks happy in the land of make-believe. Soviet Union again.
As I said, the psychological authenticity of the gospel is peerless. The way in which it inspires individuals to bring life abundant—to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless—is priceless. The church has been a wonderful patron of the arts for almost 2000 years, thereby giving people a vision of the divine. But the more the institutional Church of England promotes this cultic control-freakery, the sooner it deserves to die.
The solution to many problems in medicine is masterly inactivity. There is a lesson in that.
Related
This entry was posted in A great future behind me, Pastoralia by Rambling Rector. Bookmark the permalink.
15 thoughts on “Stand well back”
Isabell on 26/03/2019 at 16:29 said:
What are your plans for exiting? Fireworks or a pub crawl? 🤭🤭
Rambling Rector on 26/03/2019 at 16:33 said:
Quietly after last mass on 29 September.
Jeff on 25/03/2019 at 14:43 said:
I came about your blog after having read earlier this morning the blog of a former seminary professor of mine who is retired. You might enjoy his sarcasm:
As one who is well into his less decade of service, I wonder what kind of explosion might occur when I officially retire and dedicate more time to writing (or maybe I’ll just stick to sailing, which does seem to clear my head better than most things).
Rambling Rector on 25/03/2019 at 14:49 said:
Thanks. I shall look at it. Good sailing. Weightlifting keeps me kind of sane. There is more companionship, camaraderie, and mutual support in the gym than in many churches.
Dear Rector, here in Christchurch, New Zealand, just 8 years after devastating earthquakes which decimated our church buildings, and now the tragic death of 40 Muslims in their mosques, at the hands of a madman, while engaged in Friday Prayers; we Christians are aware of our need to put things into more of a proper perspective.
The gift of life from God is paramount. It is a gift, not a right. We misbehave but God loves us, and does NOT punish us for our sins (Thank God) but wants us to learn from the catastrophes that inevitably occur in our local environment. Out of the hatred of one ‘White-Supremacist’ has grown – here in Christchurch – a movement (led by our female Prime Minister) that has made us understand that all humanity has been created for the purpose of Loving and not hating.
I guess the sooner we learn that lesson, and get down to the business of loving – as God does, unreservedly – forgetting our petty little disappointments and frustrations – the sooner will the Kingdom of God be established according to what we ask for in the Lord’s Prayer.
Patience, Father. Retirement will not sort out your woes – as I know after almost 25 years of it. What it will do, is allow you to sit back and take a more equable view of the misdemeanours of those who tend to ‘run the show’, realising that they, too, are made in the Divine Image and Likeness – sinners but redeemed, just like ourselves. Blessings!
Rambling Rector on 24/03/2019 at 04:21 said:
It is good to hear of developments in Christchurch. But you seem to be imagining stuff that I did not say, and drawing inferences that are wide of the mark.
Ronnie Smith on 25/03/2019 at 23:10 said:
Mea Culpa! I guess we all see things from our own given perspective. I may have mistaken the cause of your angst. Sorry, Father! Enjoy retirement.
Elaine Cleary on 23/03/2019 at 22:15 said:
You said that very well – no loss of words there! I look forward to the next installment.
I have only recently joined your following but your comments are so apposite. I enjoy your thoughts immensely.Thank you
Baiba on 23/03/2019 at 20:47 said:
Glad you have recovered from your cold. Read your thoughts about the “Church” and other administrative bodies, and enjoyed and was enlightened. A second reading is required to appreciate the finer points of your article. Keep up the good work and I ‘ll look out for your next one.
Best wishes. Gerald and Baiba
Never stop writing! Your words reflect exactly what is happening in the Catholic Church too. It has never engaged with ordinary people. But it has humiliated and shamed many, mostly because they were poor and uneducated. My grandparents being perfect examples of this. It’s attitude to sexuality is truly shocking. Women are invisible and worthless. It protects and covers up for “priests” who have raped, terrorised, abused and destroyed the lives of innocent little children, and has done for centuries, globally. Evil is very much at the heart of the church in which I was raised. Where is Jesus? We have truly lost sight and forgotten about Him.
The Church will lose a man of great compassion, sincerity and courage on the day you retire. Sending you wamest wishes from Dublin today. Thinking of you.
Rambling Rector on 23/03/2019 at 18:45 said:
Very kind, Bernie. I shan’t stop – it’s therapy. We forget that the institutional church in the west is not necessarily representative of the church worldwide – thankfully.
Very true. Thankfully indeed.
Nubby! on 23/03/2019 at 16:16 said:
Its a good thing you stopped writing Stanley, or you might have popped a blood vessel or two, lol.
( just kidding) Religion, and people are changing, and there is nothing anyone can do about it. I did enjoy your article, however. Well written.
| 11,867 |
New research report examines Initiative 1634: ban on local food and beverage taxes "in keeping" with historical state tax policy - Opportunity Washington
New research report examines Initiative 1634: ban on local food and beverage taxes “in keeping” with historical state tax policy
Posted by Opportunity Washington on Monday, August 27, 2018
The Washington Research Council has released a new policy brief analyzing Initiative 1634. The WRC states,
Initiative 1634 would ban local taxes on groceries (except insofar as they are subject to general state and local retail sales taxes). Although the impetus for the initiative isSeattle’s sweetened beverage tax, that particular tax would be allowed to continue.No other jurisdictions are considering grocery taxes at this time, but the proposal is in keeping with Washington’s long history of exempting most groceries from state andlocal retail sales taxes.
The short brief looks at the history of the grocery exemption.
Washington voters exempted food products from retail sales and use taxes in 1977 (Initiative 345). The Legislature then temporarily re-imposed the sales tax for food in April 1982, through June 30, 1983 (Chapter 35, Laws of 1982, 1st ex.s.)…
In 2010, the Legislature applied the sales tax to prepared food, soft drinks, bottled water, candy, and dietary supplements. The legislation also imposed an excise tax on carbonated beverages. Voters responded that November by passing Initiative 1107, which again exempted bottled water and candy from the sales tax and repealed the carbonated bever- age excise tax (WRC 2010).
And addresses the question of the regressivity of the tax.
I-1634 states that a reason for its proposed ban is that grocery taxes are re-gressive and “working families in Washington pay a greater share of their family income in state and local taxes than their wealthier counterparts.” This statement is likely based on a report on state and local taxes from the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. We wrote last month about this report’s methodological problems, which lead it to overestimate the regressivity of Washington’sstate and local taxes. Ultimately, all state and local tax structures are regressive, and when the progressive federal in-come tax is factored in, Washington’s overall tax burden is progressive (WRC 2018).
| 2,396 |
Greetings from our churches! We’re hoping this post finds you, your loved ones, and your friends safe and well.
“Where are you?”
And the Lord looks back at us and asks,
“Where are you?’
Brother Nobles recently mentioned a time when the men were gathered in the dining room before service, and the Elder gave an answer to a question someone asked regarding people leaving church. Brother Nobles said Elder’s answer had always stuck with him:
“Well, I’m sorry they did not see it. God brought them here to show them.”
How many people pray for God to lead them to His church, but when He does, they find little things not to their liking? If you pray for God to lead you to His way, open your door because He will answer you. It’s up to you to not miss it.
What we’re plugged into lately: last Wednesday evening’s service. It was great, and we’d like for you to be blessed and learn a few of the things we learned.
Friends don’t let friends trim their lamps poorly. It creates a flame that is dim and smoky as opposed to the flame from a well-trimmed lamp, which is clean and bright. Share this with a friend who knows it won’t be long (til the Bridegroom Comes).
Brother Nobles taught on how to open doors with God and keep them open. We open doors through prayer, but how do we make sure we leave the door open? One way is meditation. Not just a ten minute session thinking about God and what is good and lovely, but more of a righteous thought pattern. The door is open, but when you return to your thinking, you just closed the door.
We will have tribulation, but be of good cheer. When that is not our thought pattern, we close the door on God. In the middle of tribulation and conditions, concentrate on God giving you deliverance and helping you get through it. That door that we worked on so diligently to open, we let it close when we do not keep our thought pattern where it should be.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. -Philippians 4:7-8
We are not here to overcome our neighbor, our husband, our wife, or our friend. We are here to overcome the person in the mirror. Remember years back when Elder LaFleur taught on the laws of prosperity? Part of the requirement was writing down what you were praying for or trying to overcome, looking at it (visualizing), and meditating on it.
Prosperity, like all other forms of success, is created in the mind first. When you imagine things in your conscious mind, you are actually programming your subconscious mind to manifest them. In other words, it becomes who you are and how you think. You begin to have fervor in your prayers and thinking. Fervor is not loud. It is intensity and passion inside you.
These laws certainly work in our physical life, but Elder taught them so our souls could prosper. Knowing the truth of the Word of God builds conviction in your life. Meditating and changing your thought process leads to conviction. The strength of your conviction shapes your choices. Your choices shape your life.
That’s okay, we’ve got you. Revelation 14 talks about us following the Lamb “withersoever” he goes. We don’t need GPS. Withersoever means to follow Him through all of our conditions, no matter what situation or what we are going through — follow Him.
These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. -Revelation 14:4
when we get behind closed doors.
You open the door for God, and you get in the right mindset. Then, you go back to a bad mindset, closing the door. Once again, you return to righteous thinking, opening the door. When you keep coming back to the right thought process, the door will begin to stay open longer, and you will won’t close it as frequently.
It’s called fighting the good fight.
The Israelites were doing some traveling in Numbers, following the cloud. When they finally got to the Promised Land, Moses sent twelve spies to check it out and report back. Two of the spies, Joshua and Caleb, were excited to take over their new home, but the rest of the spies and the people weren’t so tickled. It seems that they’re going to have to go to war against some pretty burly giants to get a hold of this new land. The other ten spies were convinced that God was trying to get them stabbed to death by crazed giants with swords, and in their minds, there was no way they could pull this one off. Their carnal thinking proved contagious and caused everyone to panic.
They closed the door.
Joshua and Caleb saw the same things the other spies did in Numbers 14. While the reports of the ten spies highlighted the glaring doubt and mistrust they had in God and being able to take the land, Joshua and Caleb had a very different report. They were two men of great conviction who stood their ground in the face of opposition. When the Israelites were fearful of what stood between them and the promised land, Caleb and Joshua stood on God’s promise. They knew God was on their side, and when faced with what seemed impossible, only Caleb and Joshua saw through the natural circumstances to what God could do. They trusted in the Lord. No matter what Caleb saw, he knew it was not bigger than God.
Leaves the Door Open: “I don’t know how God is going to do this, but I know He will.”
Closes the Door: “I don’t know if God is going to do anything.” You just closed the very door God was about to use to deliver you.
Let’s. Keep the door open, and you will start to see growth. One way to do that? Go back and look at your spiritual history and landmarks in your life.
See how God helped you. Remember when He delivered you? Look at all the times He answered prayer and all the times He came through for you. And how you knew without a doubt, He walked with you. And those quiet times it was just you and Him, and you felt His love wrapped around you. Or when a child was sick and you didn’t even think twice about trusting Him.
Go back and pull these times from your history. Revisit old landmarks.
“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.” However you think, that is how you are. Your reaction reflects your thought pattern. How you react is based on how you think. Reactions are quick and reveal a lot. To respond, you have time to squelch the wrong thing, but it still comes out.
On numerous occasions when Elder was in the hospital and people came to visit, soon after greeting them, he immediately started talking about the Lord and gave a Bible study to lift them up and get closer to God. Sometimes later, he would wake up and not remember giving a Bible study until we reminded him that he did. As Brother Nobles said, the messages he gave were always sound, solid, and strong. How could his mind jump to teaching the Bible as he lay in a hospital bed enduring a condition?
The right thinking and mindset of the Lord and righteousness was so embedded in his thought process, it was where his mind and reactions automatically went. It had become his default.
Paul didn’t start out being content in whatever condition he was in. He had to learn to be content by thinking on good things.
caught in a time warp
Time warp — to remain unchanged from a time in the past although everything else has moved on in time.
We get it. You were the star quarterback of your football team. You were the prettiest cheerleader. You were a lead in a musical that one time. You threw one of the best parties that one summer. You drove a new Mustang that everyone envied. All of these things are great to have as memories, but don’t let it be all that you are. Don’t let your high school memories define your identity, or worse, stamp a date on the moment you stopped thinking and growing.
High school can bring some great moments of our lives. But, when you’re older, it should not be the best four years of your life. If it is, you are mentally and emotionally stuck there and unable to move on. People get stuck in this web of memories of their glory days that they miss far too much, and they’re too focused on the past to move on to a better future.
I met a guy one time on a flight. He was in his early 40’s (I’d guess). He was friendly and did most of the talking, telling me about his high school days. His school was just a couple miles down the road from the town we were flying out of. He had been an All-State linebacker on his championship team, and ran track as well. He had been popular and had lots of rich and entertaining stories about his escapades with his buddies and pretty girls, most of whom had left the area. He got married right after graduating, took some business courses at the community college, and now he owned his own business, and he seemed fairly successful.
Still, the best years of his life were behind him.
I was saddened by his life story. Here was a man at middle age, still looking back nostalgically at his time as a boy. Nothing wrong with remembering days gone by or being nostalgic. But like Brother Nobles pointed out, something bigger was at play. Had nothing else happened in the intervening years to eclipse his young fame and popularity? Was it all downhill from those peak experiences of high school? He was stuck in that time period, and his thinking had stopped there.
If you think you have the door open because you are in church every service, unless your thinking has grown and progressed, you can become the eternal high school senior.
When did you stop growing and progressing? Where were you in your life, and at what point did you stop moving forward?
If we get stuck and stop progressing, we miss out living in this moment and cannot fulfill what God has called us to do.
Sorry if you were expecting horns or a Darth Vader voice, but our definition of evil does not always match God’s.
Genesis 6 is just your everyday people, living it up in their carnal nature. When we give ourselves free reign and don’t control our thoughts, we are the people in Genesis 6:5.
And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
The continuance of carnal thinking leads to death.
What Do You Think?
Have we closed the door on love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, or temperance?
Have we opened the door in Matthew 5:28?
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Thinking something and the action are different. However, if that is your thought process, you will act on it — unless you close that door.
Maybe that wasn’t such a bad idea. Our carnal nature doesn’t slam the door on God. If it did, that would be a good thing. It would be loud and startle us. It would jar us, so we would realize what we had done and ask God to please forgive us for shutting Him out. We could open the door again.
Instead, we start closing the door real easy, a little bit at a time. Slowly. Quietly. By the end when we close it, there is barely the faint sound of a click.
That closed door is the most dangerous.
We ask God for wisdom and then revert to our own thinking. We close the door on His wisdom.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. -James 1:5
Keep fighting the good fight, and we can be at 100% peace. Right here. Right now. No matter what condition.
Never forget the sacrifice He made that changed everything for us. Never forget that He won and defeated death. This memory is significant for all of us! Let’s continue to gather with huge expectation for what God has in store!
The Bridge
Previous Article Say His Name
April 4, 2021 at 4:55 pm
Powerful and uplifting! We have received so much from the Lord. Bro. Nobles has been obedient to the call that God placed on his life and made sure our souls have been fed. I’m excited about where we are. I looking forward to where the Lord is leading us. I know because I have been taught, that more is expected of mature Christians and I feel motivated, stronger, and more confident that what may appear to be impossible is POSSIBLE WITH GOD!
April 6, 2021 at 9:17 am
April 9, 2021 at 5:44 pm
While I enjoyed this post, “Automatic pilot” and “Don’t leave your prayers in the prayer closet,” were two that touched my mind in a special way. The way Bro. Nobles broke down prayer has been so good to my soul. I’m just in a happy, thankful, and at peace place in my life with the Lord and what He’s doing in our services. The food we’re receiving for our soul is definitely well with my soul, helping me to grow deeper, and stronger in the Lord. It’s a good life the Lord has given me
| 13,804 |
November 15, 2018
Ohio
Seneca East school district joins opposition to wind farm project
ATTICA, Ohio – With no discussion, the Seneca East board of education unanimously approved a resolution to intervene in upcoming Ohio Power Siting Board hearings that will decide the fate of the controversial Seneca Wind project.
The 5-0 vote was taken Tuesday night at a special Seneca East Local Schools meeting called to discuss and vote on the resolution.
In approving it, the school district joined four of five Seneca County townships that have passed similar resolutions to intervene, the most recent coming Monday night from Seneca County’s Venice Township. The only one in Seneca that hasn’t passed a resolution is Bloom Township, where three of five trustees are leaseholders.
School board president Jaimie Beamer told The Blade after the meeting the board had wanted to remain neutral but saw the groundswell of opposition that has come in recent months – much of it coordinated by a new grassroots group, the Seneca Wind Anti-Union.
About 50 people attended the board meeting. Four registered in advance to speak, one of whom was Gordon Gray, director of wind development for sPower of Salt Lake City, the project’s developer.
“Our project will not adversely affect the health of students at Seneca East. We would not have undertaken it if it would,” Mr. Gray told school board members. “We look forward to working with the board and working through its concerns.”
Chris Aichholz, a Seneca Anti-Wind Union organizer, said after the meeting he is “just super-excited the board voted to intervene.”
“It’s a good step to protect the children,” said Mr. Aichholz, adding that his son, Harrison, will be entering kindergarten at the large K-12 facility the district owns and operates at 13343 E. U.S. Hwy. 224 on the outskirts of Attica.
Residents have obtained records that show sPower has plans to erect 16 commercial-scale turbines within 2 miles of the consolidated building.
Mr. Gray did not confirm or deny the number. Those 16 are among 85 turbines sPower plans to erect in Seneca’s Scipio, Reed, Venice, Eden, and Bloom townships. The developer wants to use machines in excess of 600 feet in height, some of the tallest in the country.
Seneca East Local Schools stands to receive $500,000 in tax revenue if the project is approved. Another major wind farm, the Republic Wind project, is eyed for several Seneca County townships and Sandusky County’s York Township.
Both it and Seneca Wind are 200-megawatt projects. Plans for a much larger one – the 300-megawatt Emerson Creek wind farm, which would have the capability of producing 50 percent more power – will be unveiled at an open house in Norwalk, Ohio, on Thursday night. The latter is expected to be developed mostly in Erie and Huron counties, but Seneca residents believe it will likely come into their county too.
One of those who spoke in opposition to the Seneca Wind project during Tuesday night’s school board meeting was Tami Andrews, a retired sixth-grade teacher,, who said she lives 2 miles west of the K-12 building and used to promote renewable power as a teacher.
“I was picturing wind turbines in the prairies out West,” she told the board.
She said she has many concerns about how noise, vibrations, and shadow flicker from the big machines could affect Seneca East schoolchildren, especially those with autism and other sensory disorders.
“For someone on the autism spectrum, that would be torment,” Ms. Andrews said of shadow flicker, which is a repetitive, strobelike phenomenon that she said is hard to block with window shades.
She also said the effects could impact outside activities, recess, sporting events, and the ability of high school students to achieve their potential on college entrance exams.
“School will be a daily experience to be dreaded,” Ms. Andrews said.
Mr. Gray told the board he’s confident such concerns can be overcome.
“Schools and wind projects have a great history of forming partnerships across the country, and we’re confident Seneca Wind will,” he said. “We want to be a partner with you and address those concerns.”
Plans call for 49 of the 85 turbines to be erected within the boundaries of the Seneca East school district, Mr. Gray said.
He told The Blade later that sPower is waiting for an administrative judge to set the OPSB hearings. Once sPower obtains all needed permits, it can get its turbines for the Seneca Wind project erected in eight months, he said.
“We certainly are hearing a lot of passion and strong feelings here,” Mr. Gray said. “It’s not the only place in the country where there’s that level of passion.”
Seneca Wind, recently certified by the state of Ohio as a qualified energy project, is expected to generate $56 million in revenue for Seneca County, several townships, and school districts over its 30-year lifetime.
The company vows to hire at least half of its full-time equivalent employees from Ohio and work with an Ohio university or apprenticeship program to support education and training for careers in the wind industry. It also has agreed to upgrade roads, bridges, and culverts, as well as provide emergency response training for fire and emergency responders.
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2018/11/15/seneca-east-school-district-joins-opposition-to-wind-farm-project/
| 5,535 |
Your quality is affected by many different aspects when it comes to car or truck insurance policies. Your top quality is usually lessened by getting treatment to push prudently and properly. Also, consider the make and value of your motor vehicle, how you employ it, and other components when building comparisons involving charges. You usually tend to be associated with a collision if you travel for extended distances. It is possible to decreased your insurance policies premium by getting a plan that may be well suited for your specifications.
Address
Car or truck coverage Price tag
The everyday automobile operator pays between $1,one hundred and $five,000 every year for insurance coverage. The prices can differ in between states and from a single to the following. This is the rationale It really is important to be aware of this reality. In a few states, the cost for complete coverage is double the cost of the minimum protection. Beneath are some suggestions to help you discover the best offer. Although a bare minimum liability limit may very well be expected in some states, total coverage commonly consists of a further $500 deductible.
The correct motor vehicle can make a variance for the reason that some motor vehicles have greater insurance charges than Other individuals. Specific vehicles tend to be more highly-priced to mend and change and repair, which means their coverage rates are better. The premiums for motorists that has a thoroughly clean driving report are usually decrease. The coverage charges also rely upon the driving force’s age and gender. Motorists who are more youthful are typically thought of additional risky than people who are more senior. Insurers may also use credit score scores to find out the price of coverage. Having said that, certain states have passed legislation that prohibit these use.
Diverse sorts and sorts of motor vehicle insurance
You can find six varieties of car insurance policy coverages that are standard. It is possible to tailor your policy to handle numerous scenarios. It is usually vital that you have liability insurance policies. Despite the fact that legal responsibility insurance coverage is required for most states however, You may additionally pick out different kinds of insurance policy. Liability insurance policies handles you should you be at fault in an accident. Furthermore, it covers any other drivers linked to the accident. It addresses the costs of Others’s injuries and damages, in addition clinical fees.
A standard policy will incorporate several kinds of coverage, like legal responsibility, collision, in depth, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical payments. Most of these are important and it’s essential to make sure you have enough of them. Some coverages may very well be essential in certain states, while others may not be. Freeway Insurance plan is a good web site to Find the most beneficial car or truck insurance coverage policy in your case. You’ll be able to Decide on a range of options for protection whilst saving money and time.
What exactly are The foundations to insure your automobile?
Each point out has its have bare minimum vehicle-insurance policy necessities. They are really damaged into three diverse numbers. In California, for example you must have at minimum amount 15/30/five bodily damage legal responsibility insurance policies, and 30/50/5 during the house damage liability. These quantities can differ significantly, so It really is a smart idea to verify the requirements of one’s state before driving. Alternate insurance policies could be an alternate. However it’s not constantly a good suggestion.
When your point out ordinarily calls for legal responsibility protection, most lenders involve whole coverage. The lender might require you to obtain comprehensive coverage if your car is being financed. Total protection contains collision insurance plan and extensive coverage. Liability protection handles damages to property belonging to Other folks from the function of an accident happens, but not to your vehicle or your self. Combining home injury legal responsibility with bodily harm protection to have the most extensive protection for an affordable value.
Necessities to have collision protection
It is determined by your specific circumstance to ascertain if collision protection is A part of your insurance policy coverage for autos. Even though You’re not needed to carry it lawfully even so, lenders may possibly demand it Should the program is to finance your vehicle. When you have an auto financial loan, lenders could require you to get collision insurance plan. This coverage is mandatory for all people that finance a auto.
Collision coverage pays the complete value of your car in the situation of a mishap. When the insurance provider will address for all repairs, it may not be sufficient to switch your car if it will get stolen or wrecked. To be able to substitute your vehicle, you may need to invest some of your personal cash. Make sure you read and understand the stipulations prior to buying coverage for your vehicle. Knowing the deductible is also critical.
Ways to get Car Insurance policy
Purchasing auto coverage is not uncomplicated. Selected states hold the minimal specifications to deal with Residence as well as Uninsured Motorist protection. The coverage addresses the difference between your costs, as well as the coverage Restrict for the motive force at fault. Other states Never need to have protection for motorists who’re not insured. These are generally some ideas that can assist you select the proper coverage system to fit your necessities. These guidelines ought to simplify the process and assistance lower your expenses.
Car Insurance Companies
Liability coverage
To shield your assets and you versus damage statements, legal responsibility protection is necessary in insurance policies on vehicles. For anyone who is located answerable for the reason for an accident, this protection can pay for authorized protection and settlement. There are various varieties of protection, so it’s important to be familiar with the difference between them to stay away from highly-priced unanticipated expenditures. Point out Farm offers a mean charge for differing types of protection. You may perhaps obtain it greater to decide on a moderate coverage amount.
Vehicle Insurance coverage Protection
Most states call for you to get legal responsibility protection on your coverage. It covers damages to your residence of Other individuals and accidents to Some others. This coverage will secure you in the event that you cause an injuries to somebody else. This sort of insurance coverage is usually recommended by an assortment of countries for drivers. It’s the norm policy in most states. You have to be knowledgeable that the boundaries for liability insurance plan vary In line with condition. The liability Restrict you end up picking will establish how much coverage you will require.
Insurance plan coverage
In almost all states in nearly all states, driving without legal responsibility insurance policy is in opposition to the law. Legal responsibility protection pays for damage to assets owned by Some others. But your automobile insurance coverage plan will not likely address your automobile’s harm. Every point out has its possess minimum amount coverage demands. Before you purchase an auto insurance coverage plan make sure you read through the wonderful print. It really is essential to have property coverage to be sure economic stability. For those who cause an accident, It can save you yourself from costly coverage costs.
In order to protect you in the event of a collision the coverage you select to invest in ought to have house injury protection. The protection covers any hurt you bring about Yet another particular person’s motor vehicle, including repairs. Also, it addresses the costs to scrub up debris following an accident. 3 quantities are generally used for home coverage. This addresses bodily harm protection per human being in addition to assets hurt insurance plan per specific. Better restrictions present extra security. If you will find any limits or exclusions, be sure you review the policy.
Uninsured motorist coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is obtainable in The big apple if the opposite driver just isn’t insured plenty of to guard the collision. The protection is accessible when the opposite driver is just not recognized as well as the incident is successful and operate. The Insurance policies Legislation SS 5217 states that protection for uninsured motorists is just readily available for any Bodily collision. Nonetheless, the courts have interpreted the clause to only utilize to physical accidents.
In some states, uninsured motorist and underinsured coverage might be optional. In other states, even so, equally have to be procured. Both of those coverages are able to be mixed to deliver further security in the event of clinical fees together with other expenditures. The uninsured motorist coverage will include repairs to your automobile When you are remaining having a harmed automobile by an uninsured driver. While this protection isn’t really essential however, it’s a smart strategy to carry for the extremely the very least the least volume of liability protection.
Just take savings
When you’ve in no way considered vehicle insurance coverage, it can be an effective way of preserving money and being inexperienced. The expense of insurance plan might be Minimize by paying for new autos equipped with safety features like anti-lock brakes or airbags. For basic safety characteristics set up within your auto, like anti-theft alarms as well as the daytime operating lights, you can get more savings. For just a period of 12 months, your the fear of paying your high quality might be eradicated by paying out your quality yearly in the total sum. In reality, all-around 50 percent of insurers offer reductions for this type of payment.
You may also be qualified for discounts should you’ve experienced your coverage for a long time. These discounts range based on how long you have been Together with the coverage, but some enterprises offer you savings to get faithful for their shoppers. The plan is obtainable for buy for approximately seven times before the day of renewal and you may be suitable for a reduction as substantial as 15% Some firms supply discounts to those who function in certain specialties. As an example, lecturers acquire ten% off of their rates via Liberty Mutual. Geico gives a 15% price cut to armed forces members.
Are you a brand new driver trying to get auto insurance plan low-cost offers. There are a number of things you can do to save cash on auto coverage. These ideas can save you countless pounds yearly on your automobile insurance plan. Moreover, you can get the lowest price ranges. Keep reading to find out how. You’ll be happy you did.
Younger drivers can get monetary savings on insurance for cars and trucks.
Younger motorists can cut down the cost of auto coverage by driving properly, reducing the number of miles they vacation and letting insurance policies corporations observe their driving behavior. It is additionally feasible to decreased the price of your insurance policy by purchasing all around for automobile insurance policy. It is important you store about for automobile insurance policy. A lot of insurers charge higher prices for younger motorists. There are actually many on-line equipment that help you Assess costs and help it become straightforward. On top of that, a number of motor vehicles might be grouped collectively and supplied a discount through the exact same insurance policies provider.
It is vital to receive many quotations when looking for a plan. This tends to let you find the best value and optimum high quality. Additionally it is probable to search out an insurance plan agent that will work along with you. This allows you to modify your coverage the policy as your driving patterns change. It is necessary to match policies which offer equivalent coverage. Differences within the deductibles or restrictions could come up with a an enormous variation. A superb coverage must include things like adequate protection for young motorists to safeguard on their own from economic spoil.
Acquiring a no statements price reduction on vehicle cover is a fantastic choice to reduce your rates, and it’d be worthwhile asking your insurer how to use it. The price reduction may be really worth up to 30% soon after just one year, or as 65% immediately after 5. It’s dependent on the insurance company you decide on. The 2-calendar year no-claims reward from the party of a collision. Additionally, several claims may even erase your no claims reward. You will need to notify your insurer right away should you be wounded in a mishap. If this is not accomplished, upcoming promises may be denied.
A great deal of insurance policies corporations supply no-promises reductions security for any expense of approximately PS25. This lets you submit the needed volume of statements every year, while not having to concern yourself with the cost of your insurance policies growing. It really is feasible to also include it on to a whole new insurance plan Should you have a reward for no statements. You can even transfer the no-statements discount to another company in case it is required. It is actually a good idea to protect your no-promises discounted.
To lessen your Value for auto insurance policy and lessen your insurance costs, you’ll want to boost your deductibles. Increase your deductibles to avoid wasting 15%-30% on the quality, according particular estimates. These savings can differ commonly depending on your driving background and the sort of automobile you possess, plus the regulations of your respective state. A greater deductible can lower your yearly quality around 40%
Even though it will not be the best choice for everyone boosting your deductible could support in preserving many hundreds of dollars in excess of the class of your life. Industry experts counsel preserving up to 2 months of living bills. On top of that, it is going to lessen your insurance policies charges each and every month. For those who ever file an insurance coverage declare, you will help you save a big amount of money.
Receive a coverage together with your regional insurance company
A policy having a regional firm is an effective selection for drivers with weak credit score records. This can assist you help you save every month income with your insurance policies premiums and also offer outstanding buyer assist and Particular discount rates. Regional insurers are available in all 50 States. To seek out the bottom costs, you are able to Look at rates from distinct states. It is actually critical to Remember that you could possibly demand building your credit score score over the class of. Some drivers with bad credit rating scores may be charged over $400 per annum.
Erie Insurance is an additional regional insurance provider which offers low-cost vehicle insurance plan in a low cost. This enterprise is located in Pennsylvania and has become in small business because 1925. Erie supplies automobile insurance plan as Besides daily life and assets coverage. Erie won’t give protection in all states. It’s got over thirteen,000 impartial agents across America. It is achievable to select an agent or regional insurance company based on your requirements. Before you make a decision, on the other hand, it is usually recommended to study the modest particulars.
5 Factors to think about in Comparing Car Insurance policies Prices
It is crucial to compare auto coverage prices to determine the most beneficial Value for your requirements, especially if you’re a large-risk driver. On top of that, you should study The supply of coverage in your town to find out if a lower fee might be feasible. A higher deductible or reduced threat could signify it really is more cost-effective to obtain greater coverage. It all is dependent upon your preferences. There are a variety of alternatives.
Least expensive car or truck insurance for prime-hazard drivers
Should you be in search of the lowest motor vehicle insurance plan quotation for prime possibility motorists, Then you certainly’re Fortunate. With just a few clicks, you will find one particular. The online world presents a number of prices that will offer protection at a portion of the price of conventional insurance for cars and trucks. Signing up for coverage is simpler because of the Online. It’s all It’s important to do is finish an online sort and pay out your premium. As evidence within your insurance coverage protection, the insurance company will difficulty you a certificate and you’ll be covered underneath an coverage plan.
Loads of coverage providers perspective you as higher-hazard motorists When you have inadequate credit rating. Because you’re not as likely in order to file an insurance assert as somebody with excellent credit, It’s because: Insurance plan corporations see your credit score score to generally be a major component. As an illustration, a DUI/DWI could improve your premium by up to sixty five p.c. This really is equal in an increase of $677 over a six thirty day period coverage. Insurance organizations also take into account your driving history. A DUI/DWI may possibly raise your insurance top quality to up to $174. A rushing ticket could cause a further forty five per cent increase in your high quality..
A DUI conviction may lead to the potential of choosing the cheapest insurance provider for your automobile. Condition Farm, American Loved ones and Progressive supply superior selections for drivers with substantial hazard. They also supply reduced charges. They also contemplate your credit score score when analyzing your Value. In figuring out the expense of your coverage, they look at these factors. It is possible to Get the coverage fees larger When you have negative credit rating. Prior to deciding to make a choice, it is vital to assess your credit history score.
Essentially the most affordable vehicle coverage for motorists
If you find yourself determining on the most suitable car insurance policies for younger drivers, there are a number of factors to consider into account. Your marital status as well as age of your children are considerable in the price of your insurance coverage. The type of car you have could also have an impact on your own premium. It is actually more expensive to insure substantial-effectiveness automobiles than you would for fewer-efficient ones. To find The most affordable car or truck insurance plan, young motorists really should look at motor vehicles which have several different safety features.
Compare Auto Insurance coverage Prices
You could minimize the quantity of protection that you’ll want to lower the price of your car coverage for drivers who will be youthful. Insurance policies corporations normally offer you special discounts for students and drivers who will be in schooling. Should you be involved in a mishap, but lessening your insurance plan could end in sizeable out-of-pocket costs. Pay attention to many of the possible threats prior to deciding to create a preference. Constantly attempt to recover price.
Teenagers deal with a obstacle securing low-cost car insurance coverage. Despite the fact that a policy for just a sixteen-12 months-outdated driver is costlier than one that is for Grown ups, the value may be lower after you increase a teenager to an present coverage. The common cost is enhanced by $one,461 per year nevertheless, it is generally less costly than acquiring an insurance plan coverage on its own. Also, youthful drivers are eligible for savings as well as other discounts.
Least expensive auto insurance for low-risk motorists
The price of vehicle insurance varies based on the kind of driver you will be. This might cause People with higher risk demands the the very least cost-effective insurance coverage. Insurance policies businesses take into consideration a number of things when deciding whether to address you. This consists of your driving background and also your demographics, and likewise your Total risk degree. The 5 most significant aspects to acquire into account when looking at insurance estimates are given down below. Take into account that decreased insurance policies costs don’t mean which you must compromise on good quality.
Firstly, consider your zip code. Substantial-criminal offense locations are very likely to have bigger criminal offense rates. Insurance corporations also consider the volume of targeted traffic. It’s also wise to ensure that you don’t have any incident studies or claims, which will increase your premiums. To prevent overpaying you ought to Assess your prices each individual six months. If you personal a number of insurance insurance policies in the exact same insurance company it can be done to avail a discount for various guidelines.
Even though credit score scores are not legally utilized by some insurance coverage businesses in certain states, they are still important elements when comparing car insurance coverage charges. Hawaii motorists with lousy credit history pays 168% reduce than very similar motorists. Massachusetts’ significant-chance motorists obtain thirty% over those people who are clean. Drivers who are new towards the state tend to be more very likely be billed greater fees for DUIs, rushing tickets, and very poor credit rating. Before you make a choice, you should definitely get several estimates.
Motor vehicle Insurance Close to me – Components that Influence the expense of Car Insurance policy
The zip code you reside in performs a substantial position in the cost of coverage. Insurance policies quotations are dearer in locations with the best rates of crime or incidents. Additionally, factors like the volume of site visitors and record of accidents could increase the price of insurance policy. As a way to find out the quantity they may demand, virtually all coverage organizations think about the driver’s driving background. A bad driving file will usually bring about motorists paying larger premiums than anyone who has an excellent driving document.
Charges of auto coverage
In the final 5 year the price of auto insurance plan has increased between $50 and $one hundred because of mounting healthcare fees. Motorists are needed to have PIP insurance and uninsured insurance policies. These specifications are in excess of regular for the state. New York, unlike other states, involves that motorists have PIP and liability coverage. The extra coverages can elevate the cost of insurance plan and infrequently raise the quality. Motorists ought to also validate their protection restrictions as certain insurance policies might need less protection.
New Yorkers spend a mean of 2.eight percent in their cash flow for insurance policies on their autos. It’s a little less than the median national level of two.40%. The common premium is going to be somewhat greater for anyone of their 30s, 40s and 50s than it can be for the rest of us. Rates are increased for those 70+ than for drivers with much less encounter. Nonetheless, the rates for married motorists are better than for one drivers.
In addition to a lower cost drivers are also able to choose defensive driving programs. These lessons last 320 minute and examine driver Mindset and visitors legal guidelines. Additionally they teach defensive driving competencies which often can considerably lower the price of insurance policies. They also can assist enhance their driving file. A training course can reduce the expense for insurance policy for your vehicle. You’ll be able to check with the Coverage Information Institute In case you have any questions about what coverage you require.
Price of car insurance plan in other states
Though gasoline costs are distinct in Every condition, it is feasible for the insurance coverage of the car to be fewer or costlier in A further condition. This may be on account of various reasons, including the condition insurance plan legal guidelines and charges of theft, the proportion of motorists who are not insured, the speed of theft or The proportion of drivers who are not insured. The price of insurance plan is affected through the severity of climate. The following desk lists the price of auto insurance policies for various states. These estimates are based mostly a comparison of state necessities for insurance plan.
Missouri has the bottom cost for entire-protection vehicle coverage and it has a cost of $944 decrease than Louisiana. Additionally, this point out has among the bottom expenditures per capita and is also positioned fifth from the rankings of cost of dwelling. Texas motorists shell out 33% in their earnings on insurance policy for their autos. This discrepancy could consequence from The reality that Texas contains a substantial quantity of uninsured motorists and lots of lawsuits.
The common price of complete coverage vehicle insurance policy is $1771 on a yearly basis. Louisiana that has a top quality of $2839, may be the condition that costs essentially the most insurance coverage. The rise of 19% was noticed from 2020. Maine’s regular insurance coverage premium however, is simply $858. This is because of states that aren’t at fault have greater insurance coverage costs. The cost of an vehicle insurance policies coverage in different states may perhaps vary drastically. It is best to look at quite a few areas, such as the laws of the condition regarding insurance coverage.
Significant-threat drivers are required to shell out additional for insurance on their own cars and trucks.
Seeking high danger vehicle insurance plan for top-hazard drivers in the vicinity of me Perhaps you are pondering how to acquire a small-Expense plan. Higher-threat motorists are more likely to pay back much more than the common driver. This is because of The reality that substantial-risk drivers usually tend to be associated with several accidents and violations. The Restrict could possibly be both 3 or five years, depending on the point out. Some cases permit bargains for taking a driver safety course.
Even though the countrywide averages for top-hazard driver insurance plan in my location are quite steady, you will find that rates differ drastically from just one condition or an other. States have their own individual premiums and several organizations will change their fees consistent with. This could certainly mean that you choose to obtain The most affordable insurance company in your neighborhood, but you continue to get great protection. Condition Farm provides the bottom insurance policy for prime-possibility drivers in the vicinity of me. Point out Farm features a solid reputation for superb customer service.
Enter your zip code to search out costs and Look at large-risk vehicle insurance for motorists near you. Even though the price of high-threat insurance policy on automobiles around me may perhaps differ by point out, most major insurance coverage firms supply such a insurance policies. Countrywide Basic and other substantial-chance organizations provide protection. You might even be capable of finding a less expensive policy with great academics and a secure motor vehicle.
The Benefits of Evaluating Motor vehicle Insurance policy Businesses
Evaluating diverse insurance plan vendors for your vehicle can convey numerous strengths. We’ll be talking about The most crucial elements, which includes rankings, savings, and customer care. You should find the most fitted plan to guard your self. So get time and energy to go through the policies of assorted firms. This article will allow you to decide which insurance company presents the most beneficial coverage and by far the most very affordable. Here are a few suggestions to help you select the very best just one.
Comparative examine of various auto insurance organizations
It is achievable to take a look at prices from unique corporations to find out by far the most aggressive car insurance charge. In order to determine the price of insurance policies, insurers bear in mind various factors. It’s important to evaluate your unique requirements after which you can Assess offers from different providers. It is more costly to insure athletics automobiles than conventional automobiles. It is usually probable consider into account your driving heritage plus your locality. It is feasible to check costs and determine the lowest Price Using the very same coverage and exactly the same deductibles by utilizing a comparison tool.
Insurance plan rates can differ drastically, so it is important to know the way in which Just about every coverage capabilities. Amongst the factors that affect the cost of insurance plan incorporate driving heritage, age, and credit history historical past. Look into the advantages made available from Every single agency, including roadside help or accident forgiveness. Though this could appear to be a frightening position, It is handy To judge quotations from unique companies and choose one of the most correct a person. Here are several strategies which will support you in your quest.
J.D. can be your best option in the case of comparison of vehicle insurance policies companies. It is possible to charge electrical power car or truck insurance corporations. These ratings are situated in purchaser fulfillment surveys which were concluded across thousands of vehicle-insurance coverage customers. These figures are made use of to determine the average fulfillment rating of each and every corporation. These rankings are released once a year. Gold medals are awarded to the highest-rated car or truck insurance plan organizations for every course. How does one determine if the companies that you are looking at are really worth your time and efforts?
There are many variables that may be utilized to assess the economic security of car insurance coverage organizations. The first is to check the AM Ideal rating for car insurance providers. This gives monetary security scores. If the car insurance provider is rated with an A, B C, File, or possibly a score, it’s important to know the way stable it is prior to deciding on the coverage. This is a vital aspect for customer support. Make sure you examine and understand the good print before selecting.
Insurance policy providers supply a variety of discount rates. The bargains supplied by insurance coverage businesses are usually not accessible to all consumers. So, it’s important to critique the corporate website to determine When you are qualified to acquire the discount. Particular organizations offer you numerous bargains, and You may also request your insurance policies agent Should they be suitable for virtually any certain lower price. The process is usually speedy and requires significantly less that one hour. Here are some examples of vehicle insurance savings.
Legacy Reductions: Car or truck coverage firms may possibly provide bargains to new motorists who obtain their plan via their mom and dad. The low cost normally is about ten per cent. It is an opportunity for parents to thank them for his or her hard work all through the decades. Moreover, it could support preserve you money on car insurance plan. Plenty of companies give discount rates for legacy to youthful drivers. It is really worthwhile to check If the insurance company gives one. American Household, Farmers and USAA guidelines may also be out there.
Customer care
A handful of providers are known for their Extraordinary customer service. Esurance was among the list of five companies to attain four out 5 around the J.D. High marks in customer care is commonplace for your parent business. The corporation scored larger than its rivals in each and every other spot such as coverage selections and pricing, as well as the excellent of services provided by its representatives from the contact Middle and its Web site. (personalised company)
The main aspect of car insurance for most people is its coverage, but it surely’s customer care that issues most. Consumers choose to get prompt and pleasant service from their insurance company. Clients wish to acquire prompt and friendly responses to their phone calls as well as e-mail. In addition they want to talk to an agent that is attentive and will offer you alternatives. Although all coverage businesses may possibly present good customer care, selected do conduct a lot better than others. (Rideshare insurance plan) (only a few clicks).
Vehicle insurance policy rates might be affected by lots of factors. The age of the driving force and their driving background are the two most crucial features. Costlier premiums are charged for drivers who may have weak driving records and small credit rating scores. The cost of residing in your neighborhood region may even influence the rates. It is important to compare the charges of assorted insurance coverage suppliers to determine the one which best suits your price range and also your driving routines. You could cut down your fees by cutting protection or taking defensive driving lessons. You can even choose to invest in a complete yr’s coverage in advance. (Invoice on the net),(employee Special discounts)(at the fault of Accident)(coated Incident)
You can find other elements that can boost your insurance rates, Besides the ones talked about. Your rates may be greater when you make an claim or are penalized for targeted traffic violations. You could potentially also qualify to acquire a reduction if take a safe driving course. Insurance policies providers are constantly tweaking their styles to find out the costs, and you may perhaps see a variation inside your premiums even if you’ve not altered your driving heritage. (utilization-primarily based insurance coverage) (rental cars and trucks);(automobile repairs);(safe driver price cut).
Evaluating car coverage is an excellent method to stop unreliable insurance plan vendors. The minimal charges provided by an insurance provider can be deceiving. For instance, the estimate won’t go over precise coverage or make inaccurate assumptions regarding your driving model. The A.M. Ideal score and scores of regional insurance coverage providers will let you Track down the most reasonably priced insurance policies. Read through this short article to Discover how vehicle insurance policies compares will let you save cash. Then Assess rates from the top corporations and determine which one particular satisfies you ideal. (incident free)
Rates are based on credit-based coverage score
Your rating on insurance policies based on credit history is a helpful indicator of how much risk you might be very likely to tackle, but you mustn’t Allow it dictate the rates you fork out. Insurance coverage companies should not make use of credit history as the only reason for why rates are rising. California, Massachusetts Massachusetts Oregon Utah, Vermont and Utah have guidelines that prohibit insurers from making decisions based upon credit heritage when generating their conclusions on premiums for insurance plan. (could preserve)(new car)(automobile declare)
Nonetheless, this sort insurance coverage will not be applicable to all states. So, shoppers can’t figure out if a company utilizes their credit score rating to make your mind up the amount of to bill them. California, Hawaii Massachusetts Massachusetts and Michigan have all banned credit rating-dependent insurance policy. Many other states also limit the usage of credit history-centered insurance coverage scores. In the end, you must determine yourself no matter whether your credit rating-centered insurance score is appropriate for you. (motorcycle insurance policy) (roadside guidance protection);(bundling auto)(pet Coverage)(real Hard cash Worth)(exceptional Promises Service)(yacht Insurance plan)
Age impacts costs
Numerous aspects impact the cost of automobile insurance policy bargains which incorporate age. Your price is impacted by age by far more then thirty %. In a few states, youthful drivers may possibly spend Pretty much 4-periods just as much as a 30-calendar year-previous. Youthful teenagers tend to be more at the chance of staying involved in a mishap than drivers of older years. Comprehension the elements that have an impact on your rates will enable you to negotiate decrease charges. Beneath are some strategies age can influence your vehicle coverage.
The expense of coverage is generally lower the young you will get. Insurance policy expenses for automobiles could be affected by your age if the driver is a man. Even though male motorists that are younger are usually less expensive than their older counterparts, insurance policies costs for drivers concerning sixty and 70 have skyrocketed. Studies demonstrate that men are two plus a half periods additional probable in an auto accident than Girls. Consequently, the gender gap decreases as we become old. (protection possibilities)(homeowners insurance policies)
Gender affects costs
It’s not necessarily shocking that a person is more very likely to purchase automobile insurance than a woman. Adult men make a lot more problems even though driving, which could bring about far more mishaps and promises. But usually there are some motives that make males much more expensive to insure. These are the best causes. Learn more regarding the best components that impression the price of auto insurance policies depending on gender. The following tips will let you lower the expense of your insurance if you’re still Uncertain. (automobile insurance policy procedures)(car insurance policy estimate)(automobile coverage price)
The Oregon Division of economic Regulation has instructed auto insurers to support consumers who You should not declare their gender. Insurance policies companies are necessary to report fees beginning January 2019 for almost any driver who discriminates versus non-binary men and women. These costs can be larger than These for feminine and male motorists. Women of all ages can get monetary savings As long as costs usually are not also abnormal. Do not be nervous more than the “nonbinary level” for younger drivers. (motor vehicle insurance coverage claim) (gap coverage); automobile plan
| 38,810 |
Residence Purchasing 101 – Pre-Approval, Down Payment Deposit, Determining Closing Expenses, as well as Extra
The Benefits of Inbound Advertising And Marketing
Advantages as well as Disadvantages of Online Sport Betting
Qualifications of Moving companies
by in Generalon Posted on
A car repair shop is actually a put where vehicle professionals and motor vehicle technicians resolve unique cars or trucks. This go shopping is associated with car manufacturers so therefore provides the finish equipment necessary for repair of the motor vehicles. A lot of people are convinced a repair shop at this retail outlet would have been a expert technician with several years of on the job knowledge. However, the reality is that this go shopping doesn’t seek the services of specialists for every service. Instead, it utilizes qualified qualified professionals and mechanics that have considered a training course or who’ve been technically properly trained. Automotive repair centers typically retain externally as soon as the standard specialists are occupied on other projects.
Plenty of good reasons why car repair centers are crucial for automobile managers. For just one, these retailers might help inside maintenance products and services for your vehicles. When you happen to be the purchase of a new car, he or she really wants to buy a good product that will last prolonged and perform successfully. If you’re building a car dealership, you will even be taking care of cars or trucks that are really simple to sustain and are also safe and sound.
For both the consumers and also the retailers of your automobile, finding the appropriate auto maintenance solutions is significant. Regardless of whether you are choosing a new automobile or maybe a made use of 1. The two of these automobiles require regular preservation. You can be looking for much better reliability the vehicle and its areas, like a car or truck client. Additionally, you will be looking for more cost-effective far better deals for ones car routine maintenance products and services.
Being a automobile owner using a vehicle dealer, you will also take into account getting reliable agencies. Alter the get all of these expert services with each other is to get started with an area car fix company. These businesses participate in well-known automatic entire body mend providers and as such they are very well set up with the most current applications and systems required for the repairs. Also they are really encountered and give backyard garden providers which include automotive fasteners, seat belts, four tires and braking systems and a whole lot far more.
Most people disappear every time they notice the phrase ‘automotive repair’. But when they actually see it for doing things, they’re impressed by the expertise they are presented. It is a lot additional for it than just a hole or a free brake. That may be firstly , you’ll comprehend if you are using a automobile challenge. It could possibly have a lot of other issues and it is important to have the suitable auto mechanic to complete the job to make sure that your vehicle stays all the time.
A great motor vehicle repair shop should be well pre-loaded with motion who’re highly expert and now have all the applications for all kinds of automobile repairs. There are various methods you can buy in relation to local automotive system retailers. You can choose from any of them dependant on their specialised or their location. If you want it in a crisis situation or bankruptcy lawyer las vegas automobile fails while travelling, for instance, you could you can keep them perform the job in your case. You’ll want to keep in mind that the amount of automobile repairs you will get depends on the time a person has had your truck inside their care and attention and whether or not you’ve got maintained your car in good while in its life span, nevertheless. You’ll probably get the amount of upkeep services offered by very good automobile repair shops.
In the event your vehicle requires standard fat modifications, discover the local shop to make certain that this specific repair included in its normal car repair and maintenance services, when your car has been preserved effectively. Aspects together with the required practical knowledge must be able to provide you with the essential alternatives because of this problem when you’ve got a tranny issue. On top of that, it’s also sensible to attempt must the motor vehicle maintenance and repair services provided by movement discussing various makes of cars and trucks such as a number of the favorite brand names likeGMC and Kia, Mercedes Benz and the like. Like this you will get a wide array of alternatives available when looking for aspects to assist you to with any complications you may experience using your automobile.
When you want to find an automotive maintenance and repair service agency, it is crucial that you take the time in finding 1 so that you can get all the solutions you need from one particular supplier. Roebuck College is regarded as the greatest technical institution if you’re considering getting an associate amount in automotive repair and maintenance. Along with delivering these tutorials online to pupils going to the faculty, they also have a large college campus inside the town of theft. If you’re looking for a position in close proximity to in your geographical area so as to ideally enroll in sessions, this is certainly terrific. Also you can to for more info details about Roebuck College’s online courses.
If you have any thoughts about in which and how to use https://excharge.se, you can speak to us at our own internet site.
| 5,961 |
Our talented dentists and staff of skilled clinicians take pride in keeping every smile healthy for patients of all ages at Made Ya Smile in The Woodlands, TX. As Houston's dental care go-to, with services such as general dentistry and implant dentistry, it's easy to provide preventative and restorative care. Not only that, we are a proud provider of Invisalign® aligners and Lumineers® for brighter, whiter-looking teeth. To see if we can help you achieve your best look, we invite you to browse our testimonials and reviews below. Our team wants to thank our community for the opportunity to serve patients and we look forward to seeing you at our welcoming practice.
Lumineers® (1)
Filter By Facility
Sort by Newest
Highest Rated
Lowest Rated
Review from Anonymous | Source: ZocDoc | Dec 20, 2021
The dentist, hygienists, dental assistants, and office staff are patient-centered in their approach to dental care. They take the time to make sure patients understand the options they recommend, and they respect patients' choices. Their approach gives patients the confidence needed to commit to a systematic treatment plan that will improve their dental health. More
Review from K.S. | Source: ZocDoc | Jul 20, 2021
I was blown away by my visit! This is the first time I've made a dental appointment on my own, so I was initially pretty intimidated. Dr. Mannino and his staff made me feel so welcome! They were transparent about my insurance coverage, my cleaning and treatment procedures, and maintenance/aftercare. I learned a lot during my visit. Scheduling future appointments was a breeze, too. Thank y'all so much! More
Review from Anonymous | Source: ZocDoc | Dec 06, 2020
Great doctor very informative and the young lady that did the cleaning of my teeth was excellent. More
Review from A. | Source: Google | Jun 10, 2020
I enjoyed my cleaning experience and found tot very informational! I asked many questions and received educated and precise answers. Thank you for your time! (Also the music playlist was very enjoyable) More
Review from C.G. | Source: Google | Jun 03, 2020
Quick efficient cleaning, staff very knowledgeable and friendly. Excellent protocols in place. Highly recommend More
Review from J.R. | Source: Google | May 03, 2020
Nice kind and friendly personnel. I have been going to Kuykendahl location since they opened. My cleanings, caps, Veneers and Invisalign have all been at this same location. I have had great results on all procedures. More
Review from M.C. | Source: Google | Aug 28, 2019
Such a friendly staff! Pricing is always explained to me before booking appointments that require more than just a cleaning.I’ve been a client here for about 5 years and I’m not going anywhere! More
Review from M.C. | Source: Google | Aug 28, 2019
Such a friendly staff! Pricing is always explained to me before booking appointments that require more than just a cleaning. I’ve been a client here for about 5 years and I’m not going anywhere! More
Review from J.R. | Source: Google | Jul 28, 2019
Nice kind and friendly personnel. I have been going to Kuykendahl location since they opened. My cleanings, caps, Veneers and Invisalign have all been at this same location. I have had great results on all procedures. More
Review from J.R. | Source: Google | Jul 18, 2019
Nice kind and friendly personnel. I have been going to Kuykendahl location since they opened. My cleanings, caps, Veneers and Invisalign have all been at this same location. I have had great results on all procedures. More
Review from S.J. | Source: Google | Aug 25, 2018
Dr. Troy Mannino is the best. He is gentle and is a great conversationalist, witty. Dr. Mannino and his staff are very obliging and they do a great job of communicating billing and procedures. All of the dental assistants are pleasant and make you feel comfortable. I have had extensive work; crowns, root canals, deep cleanings and cosmetic work. I highly recommend this office for dental work. More
Review from S.J. | Source: Google | Aug 06, 2018
Dr. Troy Mannino is the best. He is gentle and is a great conversationalist, witty. Dr. Mannino and his staff are very obliging and they do a great job of communicating billing and procedures. All of the dental assistants are pleasant and make you feel comfortable. I have had extensive work; crowns, root canals, deep cleanings and cosmetic work. I highly recommend this office for dental work. More
Review from J.H. | Source: Google | Jul 25, 2018
Great experience at The Woodlands Alden Bridge location. They were able to see my son as first time patient with such short notice and even worked us in right after initial cleaning and exam to get unexpected cavities filled. The dentist was sensitive to our needs and was quick but thorough. He was friendly and made my son feel comfortable. The staff helped us with the best payment discounts, and the whole process was very smooth. More
Review from M.V. | Source: Google | Mar 19, 2018
I had an appointment the day my mother passed away, Dr. Mannino and staff was kind and caring, and I received a beautiful sympathy card in the mail signed by all the staff. Thank you for your beautiful messages. You do not only provide great dental care, providing excellent quality of work as pain free and fast as possible, you also really care about the person on the table. It is about me and not just my teeth. I truly appreciate! More
Review from L.B. | Source: Google | Mar 28, 2015
Yes! The office is comfortable, café style ( really nice and comfortable. The people are all helpful and cheerful, the dentists are nice and personable. --- Okay, now to the stuff you really want to know about: Pain Management and dental technology. Having problem teeth my entire life, I am skittish about a dentist. Your "old family dentist" does things the old fashioned way and typically can't afford / or isn't trained in the latest technology. This is where Made Ya Smile comes in. They have all the newest technology. It makes the visit so much better. I sat in a vibrating chair, listening to good music ( Foreigner - not muzak ). I discussed my fear to Dr. Olson, and he really listened. I was relaxed with nitrous oxide, pain free and had gum lasering and was fitted for a new crown. No one dug metal picks into open wounds, etc. I thought for sure that all this new technology and white glove treatment was going to cost a mint, but the cost was well worth the treatment I received. I almost felt like I had been to a spa. Do yourself a favor and check out this dentist. You won't be sorry. More
Review from M.C. | Source: Yelp | Dec 29, 2014
A Groupon for Invisalign is what originally brought me to this office that is thankfully about 2 miles from home! Through the Invisalign process I got to know the staff very well since I was in the office every three weeks.Dr Rossi always brings a smile into any room he walks into. He’s replaced a crown of mine & was great through my Invisalign treatment. I go there every three months for cleanings as I’m a weird one who loves to get her teeth cleaned! I like this office and the staff and have not had any problems here. And today I got a free teeth whitening kit - bonus! More
Review from M.C. | Source: Yelp | Dec 29, 2014
A Groupon for Invisalign is what originally brought me to this office that is thankfully about 2 miles from home! Through the Invisalign process I got to know the staff very well since I was in the office every three weeks. Dr Rossi always brings a smile into any room he walks into. He's replaced a crown of mine & was great through my Invisalign treatment. I go there every three months for cleanings as I'm a weird one who loves to get her teeth cleaned! I like this office and the staff and have not had any problems here. And today I got a free teeth whitening kit - bonus! More
Review from J.L. | Source: Yelp | Oct 21, 2014
In order to straighten my teeth, it was recommended that I extract a tooth. Many dentists have suggested it, yet none had been able to convince me to proceed with the procedure. However, the staff at this office was so professional and courteous, I felt very comfortable in making a decision to proceed with the extraction. Had it not been for the pain free teeth cleaning and laser gum treatment (minutes before), I would not have agreed to begin the process of straightening my smile. The hygienist and dental assistant were very attentive to my comfort, and were able to answer all my questions regarding the tooth extraction and corrective steps to realign my teeth. By the way, all of the above occurred while I was reclined in a therapeutic massage chair! I grew up visiting military dental offices, needless to say, I was not accustomed to the pampering and attention that this office provided. The tooth extraction was not easy, however, Dr. Rossi did an excellent job of making sure I was not in pain or feeling any discomfort After the successful extraction, I was prescribed pain medication, but to my surprise, I didn't feel the need to take any of it. My overall experience at this location was an excellent one. Both the professional and administrative staff at this location deserve the 5 stars I am giving them. I highly recommend this office to anyone looking for a good dentist in the Woodlands area. More
Review from J.L. | Source: Yelp | Oct 21, 2014
In order to straighten my teeth, it was recommended that I extract a tooth. Many dentists have suggested it, yet none had been able to convince me to proceed with the procedure. However, the staff at this office was so professional and courteous, I felt very comfortable in making a decision to proceed with the extraction. Had it not been for the pain free teeth cleaning and laser gum treatment (minutes before), I would not have agreed to begin the process of straightening my smile. The hygienist and dental assistant were very attentive to my comfort, and were able to answer all my questions regarding the tooth extraction and corrective steps to realign my teeth. By the way, all of the above occurred while I was reclined in a therapeutic massage chair! I grew up visiting military dental offices, needless to say, I was not accustomed to the pampering and attention that this office provided.The tooth extraction was not easy, however, Dr. Rossi did an excellent job of making sure I was not in pain or feeling any discomfort After the successful extraction, I was prescribed pain medication, but to my surprise, I didn’t feel the need to take any of it. My overall experience at this location was an excellent one. Both the professional and administrative staff at this location deserve the 5 stars I am giving them. I highly recommend this office to anyone looking for a good dentist in the Woodlands area. More
Review from L.B. | Source: Google | Oct 03, 2014
Yes! The office is comfortable, café style ( really nice and comfortable. The people are all helpful and cheerful, the dentists are nice and personable. --- Okay, now to the stuff you really want to know about: Pain Management and dental technology. Having problem teeth my entire life, I am skittish about a dentist. Your "old family dentist" does things the old fashioned way and typically can't afford / or isn't trained in the latest technology. This is where Made Ya Smile comes in. They have all the newest technology. It makes the visit so much better. I sat in a vibrating chair, listening to good music ( Foreigner - not muzak ). I discussed my fear to Dr. Olson, and he really listened. I was relaxed with nitrous oxide, pain free and had gum lasering and was fitted for a new crown. No one dug metal picks into open wounds, etc. I thought for sure that all this new technology and white glove treatment was going to cost a mint, but the cost was well worth the treatment I received. I almost felt like I had been to a spa. Do yourself a favor and check out this dentist. You won't be sorry. More
Review from L.B. | Source: Google | Jul 27, 2014
Yes! The office is comfortable, café style ( really nice and comfortable. The people are all helpful and cheerful, the dentists are nice and personable. --- Okay, now to the stuff you really want to know about: Pain Management and dental technology. Having problem teeth my entire life, I am skittish about a dentist. Your "old family dentist" does things the old fashioned way and typically can't afford / or isn't trained in the latest technology. This is where Made Ya Smile comes in. They have all the newest technology. It makes the visit so much better. I sat in a vibrating chair, listening to good music ( Foreigner - not muzak ). I discussed my fear to Dr. Olson, and he really listened. I was relaxed with nitrous oxide, pain free and had gum lasering and was fitted for a new crown. No one dug metal picks into open wounds, etc. I thought for sure that all this new technology and white glove treatment was going to cost a mint, but the cost was well worth the treatment I received. I almost felt like I had been to a spa. Do yourself a favor and check out this dentist. You won't be sorry. More
Review from M.G. | Source: Google | Jul 27, 2014
First let me explain that I had started a review and it disappeared (it might show or not). So again, let me tell you why I am giving 5 stars to this office. The waiting area is more like a Starbucks with a TV, comfy chairs, coffee, and other beverages. No wait. Then to the dental part. Out-of-this world! They have the latest toys - I mean the most advanced equipment. Handheld X-ray machines, computerized numbing, etc. The staff, from the receptionist to the hygienist, the dentists (for me Dr. Rossi) their assistants, all are welcoming, professional, at the top of their game. They are also respectful, pleasant and knowledgeable. It make the whole visit, including a root canal, not your usual dental experience. They also help with financing, and have their own contract for annual teeth cleanings, plus 15% off other services if you choose to sign up. Do not fear the visit to the dentist anymore! Go to 'Made ya smile'. More
*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.
| 14,897 |
How sad but true. Over the years, I have lost a few dogs to various cancers. Now when I have weird symptoms, but no obvious problem, I automatically suspect some form of cancer. But I have lost human and pet friends the same way,,,,Cancer is not always easy to diagnose until too late
acdsuperdog on March 7, 2017 at 11:19 am
Alla Podkopaeva on March 7, 2017 at 11:20 am
Baus on March 7, 2017 at 11:23 am
Thank you Denise. Porsche touched the lives of many. I am glad that I can say I do not regret anything I did with her. That would be an impossible burden…
margie laughlin on March 7, 2017 at 11:29 am
Life is going to end, either by accident or illness. We don’t really control this. Listen, and accept, I think the last part is most important. My dog was in Rally just for fun, but he started offering so many behaviors, both in class & at home, that we all got a little frustrated.Then I decided that he was just getting too wound up when it wasn’t really that important, so we backed off, train less intensely, and enjoy each other much more. Trust your instincts.
Lucy Rasmussen on March 7, 2017 at 11:31 am
This is sad. I can identify to some degree because I have a lovely (and loving) doggie that simply did not like training and/or competition. My regret is that maybe (likely) I didn’t know enough to make him more enthusiastic about activities and did not understand the “work is play” concept until late in the game. However I believe that my insistence about forcing a round peg into a square hole ultimately affected our long-term relationships and his attitude towards me. I don’t think, now, that dogs have the cognitive space to do pay-back or pig-headed behavior. There is always a reason and not feeling up-to-snuff is certainly in that mix. I think overall they want to please you and it is our failing when we fail to receive that message and act on it appropriately. Maybe this post is like a “true confession” but I truly understand your message, Denise. Having a pup in our lives is bound to introduce an element of regret at some point.
OlRedHair on March 7, 2017 at 1:13 pm
Chris on March 7, 2017 at 1:16 pm
Sometimes you have to accept that your passion is not your dog’s calling. I am so glad I learned to accept that with a past dog. Although we had nice scores in obedience, that was not Night’s calling, even though that was/is my passion. A fellow obedience club member introduced us to agility, and although not the fastest, that her her calling and joy. Sometimes a dog’s calling is “just” companionship. I have since also learned to accept my dog for himself/herself and appreciate him/her for that. Cancer, disease and death happens despite us and our best efforts at care. I still miss my buddies that have passed over my 45+ years of dog ownership. Nature is cruel to take them so soon. I feel fortunate to have had such good teachers in the form of my dogs.
Kathy Prince on March 7, 2017 at 2:14 pm
7 years ago I was showing my BC in open for her CDX. Attitude went down, there was intermittent diarrhea and the vet said “too many treats”. 2 weeks after her last time in the ring she was put down for inoperable intestinal cancer. I still miss her very much but have nothing to regret as to how I handled her “disobedience”. I can only wonder at her love and dedication as she worked with me in those last months.
Judy Hodgkins on March 7, 2017 at 2:54 pm
So very sad for this student. We all second guess our actions.
Sent from my iPad
cj on March 7, 2017 at 3:03 pm
I love what Chris said- I had my heart set on doing agility with my dog…. but it wasn’t her cup of tea. Because I had such a fabulous instructor, she suggested we try something else- nose work or Barn Hunts. Bess found her passion and now we both have fun. She’s had ‘off’ days and I’ve learned that that’s ok. It happens. I’m so glad your client hasn’t any regrets about her own behaviour. It’s hard enough to lose a beloved companion without having regrets & guilt to compound the pain. I am so sorry for her loss.
Michelle Carey on March 7, 2017 at 3:14 pm
This is an awful feeling.
The guilt is overpowering.
If i had one wish it would be to be Dr Do-Little..
But we have to accept we can only do what we understand.
Susan Greenholt on March 7, 2017 at 4:40 pm
This is so sadly true. I had a dog diagnosed at 2 with lymphoma. She was a phenomenal dog. She competed in agility until she was 8 years old & finished her ADCH. She was a gentle therapy dog for children & a loving, kind, affectionate dog with my entire family. Ika gave everything she had every day of her life, despite the pain & sickness she experienced throughout her periods of treatment. When she was in remission, she had good long ones, she threw herself into living the good life. Being in tune with her emotionally was so critical to knowing when she was not quite right & needed the vet. Only as her handler & partner, could I sense that. Others could not know that because they didn’t have that connection. She was so brave & so strong & in so many ways my hero. She taught me so much about living & hope. This post has reminded me of those lessons.
Now I have a round peg that I tried to fit into a square hole. We have moved to the right place now, I believe. She is still a challenge because work is not high on her priority list but she does need the mental stimulation. Your reminder of Ika’s lessons is very timely indeed.
Susan B on March 7, 2017 at 6:58 pm
Denise, thanks for writing such an intelligent and heartfelt post. Definitely gives us pause for thought.
Belinda on March 8, 2017 at 3:31 am
Well said.
Curt on March 8, 2017 at 5:39 am
Thanks. Many of us have been through something similar, learning the hard way. Others will be fortunate enough to have read this before they’re faced with it.
Jackie on March 8, 2017 at 9:10 am
Your second to last paragraph touched a chord with me. My 6 month old border collie puppy was a bit lethargic, a bit reluctant to interact and to play, and didn’t have much energy. I was worried about him – I have had a lot of dogs, but never a puppy as unmotivated as this one. In a training session, I was told that I wasn’t working hard enough to motivate him, and told to RUN! MAKE him play, put your enthusiasm into it, give him a pop on the lead, push him around, MAKE him run after you. I said that I felt he was tired, and went and sat the session out, despite derision from the trainer. A month later he was diagnosed with Addisons disease that had obviously been grumbling on for months, and finally came to a head with an addisonian crisis. He wasn’t lethargic and unmotivated, and I was not a bad trainer. He was ILL. Once stable on medication he was a different dog and went on to have a fantastic agility career. He’s 9 now and his career ended after a spinal injury, but I am so glad that I resisted that trainer’s advice, and believed in my dog.
Kathy on March 8, 2017 at 6:53 pm
I will never forget the senior water test my Newfoundland performed with me. Every exercise was beautiful if a little slowly methodical- except for the retrieve off the boat. He just couldn’t do it. I have a photo of the way he was looking at me during that test. I found out just a bit after the test that he had lymphoma. I am so happy to know that I appreciated every thing he gave me that day- even though we didn’t quite qualify. I miss that boy to this day. He was a beautiful soul.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Δ
Want to be notified each time Denise publishes a new post? Sign up here.
You have Successfully Subscribed!
Train with Denise
15Dec
No event found!
visit fenzi dog sports academy
shop at the dog athlete website
If you struggle with getting a release off of toys or bite objects, or if you just want a sophisticated look at a dog‘s motivation around toys via fight, possession, prey (chase) behavior, and getting cooperation (release or toy return), watch this video. Obviously,...
read more
I know, I said I'd do a better job keeping up my blog. What can I say? I suck. Anyway, Xen is coming up on his one-year birthday! He's making really nice progress in his training. The following video shows training for "object guard". His job is to prevent me from...
read more
I haven't written on my blog in many months. What happened?! All is well! I stopped running day-to-day operations at FDSA, and that freed up time to do what I am seriously passionate about - education. Free education, for the most part, because I spend a very high...
read more
Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress
Webinar Alert! Whistle Recall: Creating a Fast and Furious Return to Handler with Denise Fenzi- December 15th
| 9,210 |
Hyde HR Law is a boutique Labour and Employment law firm, located in downtown Toronto. Although centred in the GTA, we represent clients across Canada, from multinational corporations to small business; from individuals to groups and associations.
Located close to the Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Superior Court of Justice, our Toronto labour and employment law firm is particularly well situated to provide our clients with the unparalleled responsiveness, strong and effective representation, that they need and expect in today's marketplace.
Hyde HR Law, one of the top labour and employment law firms, was founded by John Hyde, previously the managing partner of Canada's best-known employment law firm. John, a leading labour and employment lawyer in Toronto, is joined by a number of his colleagues who share his Client First approach to providing practical and cost-efficient representation. John is one of only 23 lawyers in Canada certified by the Law Society as a Specialist in Labour Law.
Each labour and employment lawyer at Hyde HR Law come from nationally recognized law firms and, bring to the table the kind of attention to detail, drive for excellence and commitment to quality that underlies our success in client representation.
The employment lawyers at Hyde HR Law also bring something different to the practice of law: that is, practical real-life experiences, with pre-law backgrounds in human resources management, journalism, and other industries, ranging from transportation to construction.
As leading Toronto labour and employment lawyers, our motto is: "Our business, begins with understanding yours".
We think it makes us better lawyers. We hope you do too.
Employment Law for Employees
If you have been terminated from your employment for just cause, it is not the end of the road. Your employer will have to prove that your acts led to a total breakdown in the employment relationship.
No employee should have to endure intolerable working conditions – that’s the law. You may have a right to quit your job and sue your employer for constructive dismissal.
Federally regulated employees who are terminated have a powerful tool at their disposal: the law of unjust dismissal. In addition to monetary awards, unjustly dismissed employees may seek reinstatement to their employment.
Almost any dismissal from employment without notice is wrongful. Wrongfully dismissed employees are entitled to compensation from their employers - sometimes up to two years’ worth of wages and other benefits.
Have you been terminated? You could be entitled to severance pay in the range of 1 month per year of service, subject to a number of important factors, such as your age, position, length of service and chances of re-employment.
Employment Contract Review
Most employees do not understand the meaning or significance of the employment terms they agree to in writing. It is important to have your employment contract reviewed by an experienced lawyer before you sign it.
Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation
Do not take non-competition and non-solicitation agreements at face value. These clauses, referred to as “restrictive covenants”, are usually not enforceable.
Executive Compensation Advice
Incentive plans for executives can be vague, complicated, and misleading. Given the complexity of most executive agreements, obtaining legal advice from an expert will place you in a better position to negotiate an agreement that protects your interests.
The workplace is one of the most common settings for discrimination. The Human Rights Code protects all employees from discrimination based on protected grounds, such as age, disability, or gender.
Employment standards include entitlements to minimum wage, overtime, holidays, and vacation pay. Many employees do not even receive the minimum employment standards set out by legislation, but taking action against an employer may be easier than you think.
Your employer might attempt to misclassify you as an “independent contractor” in order to avoid providing you with some of the benefits that all employees are entitled to. If you have been hired as an independent contractor but your position resembles that of an employee, you may be entitled to compensation.
Employment Law for Employers
Hiring an experienced human resources lawyer to assist your company’s HR department will make a quantifiable difference, not only in dealing with contentious matters (i.e. employee discipline and terminations), but as a preventative measure by ensuring your contracts, policies and procedures do not expose the company to any future liability.
Employer Defence
Former employees can bring human rights claims, employment standards claims, wrongful dismissal claims, and various other forms of litigation against your business. Our focus is on protecting your company in a cost-optimized way.
Sometimes, employers must terminate misbehaving, negligent, or disobedient employees for just cause. However, termination for cause is a minefield for employers – seek expert legal advice before dismissing an employee in this manner.
WSIB
The Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) administers insurance coverage for workplace injuries and illnesses. Learn whether your workers are covered, whether you need to register your business, and what the penalties could be if you fail to do so.
Labour arbitration is the dispute settling process in a unionized workplace. Labour arbitration can be used to resolve union grievances, contested policies, or for the negotiation of a new collective agreement.
Collective Bargaining
Collective agreements are fairly complex, and an inexpertly drafted agreement can significantly increase the cost of doing business. During collective bargaining negotiations, employers must consider every facet of employee relations for years to come.
Construction labour law is more complicated and rule-driven than any other industry in the province. In Ontario, construction labour law is characterized by divisions based on sector, craft, and geographical area, as well as collective agreements that automatically apply to newly certified employers.
Transportation Labour
Labour law in the transportation sector is highly specialized. Either provincial or federal law can apply, depending on the exact nature of the work. Employers may also have certain rights to conduct drug and alcohol testing on employees. Expert legal advice is critical for companies who operate in this industry.
Labour law in the aviation sector largely falls under federal jurisdiction. Aviation labour law expertise requires an understanding of how the aviation sector works, together with a detailed knowledge of federal standards and jurisprudence.
Keeping your workplace union-free requires careful and strategic planning long before any union organizing drive even begins. One wrong move in the course of a union drive can lead to your business becoming automatically certified.
A union grievance constitutes a ‘dispute’ under a collective bargaining agreement. Unions often seek to extend their power by filing grievances. Employers should always respond, with the help of a qualified labour lawyer.
Applications for Certification are, at the end of the day, decided by employees. However, employers have certain rights to participate in these matters, which can often make the difference between becoming certified or remaining union-free.
Termination of Bargaining Rights, also known as “decertification”, occurs when employees no longer wish to be represented by their union. Any hint of employer influence during decertification can thwart the entire process.
Employers have the right to communicate with employees about unionization – even in the course of a union organizing campaign. Employers cannot, however, use coercion, threats, intimidation, promises, or undue influence to turn employees against the union, or else risk an Unfair Labour Practice (ULP) complaint.
A workplace investigation is a fact-finding exercise in which the investigator reviews the complaint, interviews the relevant parties, assesses the pertinent evidence, and reaches a conclusion as to whether the complaint or concern has merit. Most often, workplace investigations are complaint driven, whether on account of harassment, sexual harassment, workplace violence, workplace bullying, and the like.
Associations & Memberships
ABOUT US
Hyde HR Law is a boutique Employment and Labour law firm, located downtown Toronto. Although centred in the GTA, we represent clients across Canada, from multinational corporations to small business; from individuals to groups and associations.
Located close to the Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Superior Court of Justice, our firm is particularly well situated to provide our clients with the unparalleled responsiveness, strong and effective representation, that they need and expect in today's marketplace.
| 9,424 |
As we celebrate our 25 years leading Foss Swim School and helping hundreds of thousands of kids become better swimmers, we find ourselves remembering some of the moments that stood out. Some of those moments are sweet, some are stressful, some are funny, but they all played a role shaping our school and the extended Foss family, including swimmers, families and employees. We’re especially grateful to all of you who have trusted us with this important responsibility and who have been our biggest boosters. We look forward to the next 25 years with you and the generations to come, when we hope to make more memories to add to these 25:
Handing out flyers in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, in 1993. We printed hundreds of flyers, passed out a bunch, gave them to the parents of the swim team Jon coached, rubber banded the rest to mailboxes and got…12 students.
The pool at FountainPlace Apartments: It was where Jon taught the first lesson in 1993 because we lived there and Susan talked the landlord into it since nobody was ever in the pool. Heating it to 91 degrees was stressful in winter. With all the humidity coming off the water, we worried we’d damage the building.
That first class: Jon asked his first class of four boys to all put their face in the water….and they all said, “no.” That was a shocking moment—this wasn’t like coaching, where kids were already comfortable with water. We realized we needed a completely different bag of tricks and techniques!
When word got out: We came home from being gone two days and the home phone message machine (which was the swim school) said, “Hello, you have 65 messages…message bank FULL.” We were excited and terrified by the sudden growth of the swim school.
The great flood: One of the Jacuzzi pool filters blew up in 1995 at the pool we were using. It literally cracked in half and all the water came out and flooded the pump room. 1/3 of the pool’s water was, well, out of the pool when we came in the next morning.
Finally, a pool of our own: We searched for years for a place to build our first purpose-built indoor swim school just for us. We kept going back to the Knollwood Mall in St Louis Park, MN, and finally, in 1998, they agreed. It was the first swimming pool in an enclosed mall in the United States.
Designing a new double pump and filter system: When it went live in 1998 we could get eight turnovers of the pool’s water in a day when the state requirement was only two. That was a big step in providing safe and clean pool water for our swimmers.
Building our own instructor training program: The bigger we got, the more people we needed who could teach swimming the FOSS way. We ended up developing a whole curriculum to take the best people and teach them the best way to teach kids to swim. We’ve trained hundreds of exceptional teachers over the years and many of our former students and even parents are now teaching today with us.
Our first award ceremony for our staff in 1997: It was a system to measure and reward performance primarily based on parent feedback. It still lives today as our Parent Evaluation system. It was a huge culture driver for us.
Connecting to the international swim school community: In the late 90s, we had a chance to meet the Carlile Swimming Group from Australia, Aquagym from New Zealand, and many others around the world. It solidified the importance of teaching kids to swim and showed we could be a serious business.
Refining the program, level by level: Between 1993 – 2000, Jon was personally teaching about 300 kids a week. We realized the many levels of progression and skills that are needed to teach children to swim and then find games, songs, and stories to accompany all those learning opportunities.
Gretchen Hegener’s U.S. Breaststroke record: We were thrilled when one of our former students and competitive swimmers set the U.S. record for the breaststroke in 1997.
The smoking fax: Faxing in your registration form was the “new” method in 2000, and the fax machine in our home office was literally smoking during registration. We set the alarm to go off every hour and would go down to the office, pick up all the faxes that had tumbled down on the floor, sort them into time order sequence, and reload the tray. And this was the backup fax to the ones at the pools!
The time our son swam in a FOSS meet with his Speedo on backward: We’ll let that sink in for a moment. He was 6 years old and dashed from the locker room to the starting blocks and was in the water before we could stop him. He put on quite a show—and won the event. We may never laugh so hard again.
Our crash course in real estate: When we built our Chanhassen and Maple Grove, MN, locations, no shopping centers were interested so we had to buy land and build. Architecture, engineering, financing (we put all our savings as a down payment), all the approvals and regulations, we figured it out as we went along.
Hosting kids from the Shriner’s Hospital: We know these kids don’t get to experience the joy of water as often as they like, so for 15 years we’ve taught swimming patients from Shriners Hospitals for Children – Twin Cities at Camp Splash, where the kids can just enjoy being kids for a week!
The staff party never ends: So many memories of staff events over the years, from the original Croquet tournaments to picnics to flag football to snowmobiling to the annual Holiday party. We’ve always wanted our business to feel like hanging out with family, and we try to offer as much time together off the pools decks with each other as possible.
Reaching 10,000 children a week: We reached that milestone in 2005. It was a huge step for us. We realized we really could deliver exceptional results on a large scale.
Patent no longer pending: Innovation is key. We applied for our first patent on our quality control system in 2002 and got it in 2007.
Hello, Chicago!: Making the leap to Illinois in 2010 was another ride, something like a roller coaster! Having the swim schools in our hometown was comforting. Moving into another state was scary. The business was growing, and we couldn’t be everywhere. We knew then we needed to trust our model and our staff. And it worked—we now have six Chicago-area schools.
Rachel Bootsma’s Olympic gold medal: We were cheering like crazy when Rachel, one of our former students, helped the U.S. win gold in London in 2012 in the 4×100 meter relay.
And the Emmy goes to…: Helping create an 8-minute Emmy-winning news piece on FOX 9 in 2014, “Drowning is a Silent Event,” was awesome because it helped us get our message out to a huge audience, and maybe even helped save a life by showing how important learning to swim is.
Apology accepted: When we got this note from one of our students in 2017, our hearts melted. Apology accepted, Will!
Learning about the kids we helped keep safe: Nothing feels better than having a parent come up and tell us how our classes gave their kids the skills they needed to avoid tragedy. Here are some of their stories.
The sheer joy of teaching kids to swim. It’s not one moment—it’s all the moments. We feel that joy over and over, and have felt it for a quarter century now. We feel lucky to have been able to build this from our passion, so again we say to our extended Foss family: THANK YOU!
Why Higher-Level Swim Students Thrive in Bigger Classes
Be the first to know
We’ll let you know when enrollment opens, share tips and stories, and extend offers:
| 7,997 |
A client walked into my office recently saying that she needed a new career because her current one was making her sick; so sick, in fact, that she could not hold back the tears.
In this case, as in so many others, she got stuck in a toxic work environment with an abusive boss and/or co-workers.
Often a bad situation is made worse by a number of stressful factors, such as unreasonable workloads; or the prospect of an impending layoff due to a change in the economy; or the expectation that they be available 24/7; or a change of job conditions from flex-time at home to face-time in the office; or the fear of being squeezed out of competitive due to lack of educational credentials; or the unspoken pressure from family to maintain a high income at any price.
Whatever the circumstances, my client feels an overwhelming need to get out of her current job. Her short term goal is to avoid the pain. The long term goal is to find a better jobfit…if she only knew what it was! In the meantime, her priority is to maintain or improve her compensation package.
So, in fact, there are two contradictory goals at work here: my client wants a new job that will giver her more vitality and joy, but she also wants to avoid financial insecurity.
In order to avoid a future that might be financially insecure, she can’t take action to move out of her current job field because she doesn’t know what else to do; therefore, to move now means she might end up financially insecure. Damned if she does take action, damned if she doesn’t–this is the essence of being stuck.
She is likely to remain stuck for as long as she seeks a long term solution to a short term problem. What do I mean by that?
A career transition is not the solution to a short term problem. A transition takes time. It is best undertook during a period of stability without overwhelming financial or psychological pressures. A transition is oriented around creating the kind of life you want; it is not oriented around problem solving.
In order to solve her current problem, my client is learning to separate her contradictory goals. Her toxic work environment is a short term problem requiring a short term solution.
As distasteful as it is for her, she realizes that her best chance of getting out of her toxic environment, while maintaining her current pay check, is to do the same thing for another org; or, cross the street, and purchase the services (that she is now selling) for large orgs. Or, she can repackage her skills and market them for a related but different job target.
Sure, her current job is something she no longer wants to do. But she is not stuck there forever (it just feels like that right now). Feelings come and go: sometimes we are in love, sometimes not.
Most of us get angry, fearful, joyful, anxious, happy, sad, and so on, at different times in different circumstances. Why should feelings govern our commitment to taking actions to achieve our goals?
Some days I don’t feel like writing, or seeing my clients, or cooking dinner but I do them anyways, not because I have to but because these actions help me create what really matters to me. Feelings are temporary.
My client has dried her tears and realizes that the first thing she needs to do is take care of herself by getting out of her toxic environment. She needs to get into another job for the SHORT term in order to build up the capacity to make a transition over the LONG term.
Making progress towards a long term goal is about building the life you want. My client now understands that her long term goal to have a career that fits her deepest values and top priorities is possible but takes time and energy, two things that are in short supply when she is in crisis.
First, get out of the crisis, then take the time to transition.
Like the song says, ‘Dry your eyes and take your song out, it’s a newborn afternoon.’
Author George DutchPosted on February 15, 2011 Categories Career transitionTags career change, career choice, career pain, find your right work, hate my job, job change, job dissatisfaction, job stress, Neil Diamond, new career, perseverance, transition1 Comment on Dry Your Eyes
| 4,249 |
Campaigns to ride 1200 kilometers in under 90 hours, aka randonneuring. Among my friends we commonly say that we’re off on a ride of inappropriate distances. That’s a fair description because any time I talk to someone who doesn’t do these type of rides, they shake their heads, asking reiterative questions like, “did you say 1200k…um, how far is that, in …90?, er, um, how many hours?” More head shaking. It’s tough to wrap your head around the length of time that you are going to ride your bike.
I used to do these 1200k rides on a yearly basis. For a couple of years I was lucky enough to complete more than one or two a year. I even did three one year. That was pretty big for me, but there are others who knock out six, seven, eight or nine in a year. Almost one a month. Think for a minute about what that must take to accomplish. In a nutshell: it’s a lot.
These rides take quite a bit of Energy. Quite a bit of Focus. Quite a bit of Time. And yes, a bit of Money.
I have always approached longer rides as campaigns because these rides don’t come easily to me. No one skates through a 1200k, gliding on pavement as perfect as a fresh sheet of ice. They require organization and discipline and you can be trained up and as mentally ready for the ride as possible, knowing all along that things don’t go as planned.
If you’ve read any of my blogs, then you know that I was hit by a car 2+ years ago and spent 2015 and 16 in a wheelchair or on crutches. This year has been all about recovery and getting back some semblance of shape and strength. This has been THE campaign. One of the upshots of being injured for a long time is that you get to reset. Reset the choices before you, reset your goals. You can’t go back to being the person you were, that person is gone. And if you strive to get back to that person, you’ll be frustrated, so resetting who you want to be, what you want to do, how you want to spend your time and with whom, is perhaps, the only gift as a result of the injury.
In that light, I spent a bit of time thinking about whether or not I wanted to ride my bike for long inappropriate distances. And I did. I missed riding my bike, because I love riding bikes. I love the wind in my hair, going fast on a downhill carving the hairpin turn, watching the world go by at 15+ mph, talking with friends as the miles pass by. Riding longer distances also means you watch the sun move across the sky, appreciating the colors of light during the golden hour after you’ve been riding since dawn. The camaraderie of riding all day and long into the night – and sometimes into the next day and so on – builds deep relationships with people. You’ve shared an adventure and that’s the elixir I want in my life. For me, adventure with friends defines a life well lived.
This past July, I bailed out of riding London-Edinburgh-London. It is 1400k long and I just wasn’t in shape to take the ride on. I sat it out, tracking friends on Facegag and on the website watching them progress through the UK. Many finished, some did not, all had quite the challenge. It was the right move to skip it, however, I realized that I wanted to knock out a 1200k ride this season if I could and there are only two left in the US: Taste of Carolina and Last Chance.
I emailed John Lee, the organizer of Last Chance, sheepishly inquiring if he’d bend the rules and let me attempt LC without having done all of the pre-qualifying rides (a set of 200, 300, 400, and 600k brevets). I said I’d feel more comfy attempting LC with a 600k under me and he agreed. Ride a successful 600k and you have a spot on the Last Chance roster. Scouting around for a 600k at this time of year isn’t easy. Most clubs have already run them and what’s left will be done in the Fall. I needed something that was 600k, but not too far away and a ride without a ton of climbing. The British Columbia Lowlands 600k fit the bill. Plus, if I got this done, I would fulfill the requirements for an award I was chasing before I was injured. Double scoop motivation.
I sent out an email to friends in the SF area and up in Seattle. These rando clubs are two of the largest in the nation, and lucky me, I have friends in both groups.
“Who wants to join me in BC for an international 600k? It only has 12,000′ of climbing.”
40 hours, roughly 370 miles, and 12,000′ of climbing. Not ridiculously tough by rando standards.
I heard nothing. The interwebs were quiet. Crickets.
I can tell you, I really didn’t want to ride this alone, but I would if I had too. I emailed the organizer and pre-registered. I emailed a few trusty individuals again to see if I could get them on the hook, but everyone was busy with work, life or recovering from some other ride. I was gearing up my mindset to be alone when I got an email from Corey saying he’d be up for riding with me. Hoorah!
These longer rides require planning. Extra ride clothing, tools, tires, tubes, warm clothes for nighttime, good lights that will take care of you all night long, medications if you need them (I know someone who rides carrying his C-pap machine in his handlebar bag. Talk about heavy!), chamois and sun cream, electronic cords and chargers. The list is long and I am rusty on packing and organizing all of the stuff necessary to expedition on your bike. After triple checking my list, I stuffed it all into my bike box and duffel and flew to Seattle.
Seattle bound.
Corey picked me up at SEATAC and we immediately went over to Mark’s house to drop off some wheels. Mark had arrived home from a 1200k in Scandinavia that morning at 2:00AM. We shared some food, banter and a few brews and Corey and I headed for British Columbia. Arriving in BC, I still needed to put my bike together and it was already 10:00 PM. Wonderfully, Corey is both an ace mechanic and an excellent framebuilder, so we got the Calfee together in short order. Asleep by 12:00, up at 5:00 for a 6:00 start.
A handful of randos at the start.
In the early AM, we walked outside of our hotel and signed in. I knew a few people – Cheryl, Nigel, and Rick – whom I had ridden with BtC (Before the Crash) in eastern WA. Cheryl and Nigel are fast tandem riders, they hold all sorts of records (even though randonneuring is not a race, people take notice of people’s times), so I knew that I’d see them at the start, and maybe at the finish, but not in between. We were off right at 6:00, and our first order of business was to go through the border back into the US. The ride was built around 2 loops. Day 1’s route dropped into the US and hugged Puget Sound as it headed south to Camano Island. After a loop around the island we went inland for a spell and then headed back north to the border and Surrey. Day 2 was a shorter loop (150 miles) around the Fraser River valley in BC.
The route starts and ends in Surrey. Day 1 loops down into WA, Day 2 loops in BC.
Perfect temps, a light tailwind, fresh air, blue skies. Corey and I moved south stopping at bakeries and spots to take pics. We ran into another SIR rando in a small town. All three of us were 100s of miles from our respective homes and still, randomly found each other. Now that’s rando. Narayan was on a shorter ride, and after a few minutes of banter, we bid our goodbyes and continued on.
Stopping to take in the view. Puget Sound on a calm sunny day.
Could you pass this up? Could you?
The Farm to Market bakery. It’s a must stop bakery.
We were in our groove moving down the road. We reached Camano Island and headed into the loop around the island. This was the hillier portion of the ride, it had been mostly flat up until then. I worked up countless steep rollers that I didn’t have quite enough umph to pull me up and over on, but the zoom zoom of the downhill always brought a smile and renewed strength for the next roller. At the last control on Camano, we scooped up Kyle, a messenger courier turned grad student and a newbie randonneur. Tall and lanky, Kyle rode like the energizer bunny. We became three and headed towards the next control.
Smoke filled the air and our road was closed due to a fire that had broken out. We were ushered to a detour that required yet another hill that I hadn’t counted on. By now, the left side of my body was tired (still regaining strength on the right injured side, so the left does more work) and I was riding from control to control, working my way back to BC. This unexpected fire added a few miles and elevation, so when we found ourselves at the control we all looked a bit spent. Time for dinner. It was evening now and we pulled on our night clothing, turned on our lights, and headed to Bellingham, the last control before the border crossing and bed.
Thankfully both Corey and Kyle’s lights were working.
My light setup consists of a dyno-hub and a prototype light that has a USB plug built into it. A secondary light is mounted on my handlebars and a small light attaches to my helmet to read the cue sheet at night. The dyno-hub light worked fine in the hotel when we put the bike together, but once I needed it to work, it failed. It would blink on and off at irregular intervals, sometimes a bump in the road caused it, other times, who knows? Corey and I tried to troubleshoot the possibilities while moving down the road but it became useless. I abandoned it using the secondary light only. The good news is that both Corey and Kyle’s lights were bright enough that I really didn’t need any light, especially if I was between them, there was plenty of light to see. The secondary light only lasted about 3 hours and we still hadn’t made it back to the border so by the time the evening was finished, I was riding in the dark, completely using the light of others.
Corey had begun to have some stomach issues once we finished riding around Camano Island. After dinner, our paced slowed down: a flat tire, faulty lights, stomach and a few navigation issues, none of these were in the plan. When we finally reached the the border it was 2 hours later than when we hoped we would cross. The border official was a bit confused:
Where did you start your day?
What were you doing in the US?
Riding our bikes.
You crossed into BC yesterday (this, to Corey and myself), correct?
And you crossed back into the US this AM?
Yes
Are you riding alone?
No. Followed by a quick explanation of randonneuring… More head shaking…
Why has it taken you so long to get back?
Where are you going tomorrow?
Around BC and then back to the US.
By bicycle?
Partly, the BC part by bicycle, and then back over the border to get to Seattle. More head shaking.
OK, have a good evening.
15 minutes later we were in our hotel room and I was in the shower. In bed by 3:00 AM with a 5:00 wake-up and a 6:00 departure.
The alarm went off too soon. Corey rolled over and told me he was going to bail. Stomach still upset and I agreed, it’s not worth getting sick over. He didn’t need the ride, but I did. I steeled myself for a day alone.
The hotel parking lot was empty, everyone still riding was already gone. I had the cue sheet and my Garmin was working again (it had also gone on the fritz in the night). I rode the course until I found a Tim Horton’s. Revived with breakfast and coffee, I cruised through a gorgeous Sunday morning. The landscape was easy on the eye: large homes with grass, barns and horses. This is equestrian land. I wound through the Telegraph trail and dropped down to the Fraser River. Crossed over and meandered along the route passing many cyclists out for a Sunday AM spin.
Breakfast of BC rando champions!
This “trail” wound through gorgeous land filled with old barns, homes and horses.
As the day wore on, the temps were on the rise and I was getting baked. I was following the Garmin and the cue sheet but really didn’t have a clue about where I was in the larger picture of things. I found myself on Highway 11 with cars flying by me at top speed. Canadians drive fast, and having recently been hit from behind I was a bit anxious about being on this road. Another bridge over a river and I was heading to Abbotsford, where I would turn to the end of the valley and make my way up to Chilliwack Lake.
Across the Fraser River in the AM of Day 2.
Getting across the valley seemed to take forever, but I got a boost when I saw everyone still on the road. Nigel and Cheryl yelled out as they passed on the last leg heading back to Surrey. At least I wasn’t lost! After a brief stop I headed up the river valley. The water was clear and cool and people were in innertubes floating, or fishing, or splashing about. I was hot and tired and had spent all day talking to myself and was out of conversation topics. I wanted to jump into the water, but kept pedaling.
Turning into the small group of houses where I had an information control, I looked around for the B & B House of Prey. No sign of that anywhere. I rode up and down the lane, but no sign. There was an elder couple pulling weeds and I stopped to ask them if they knew the house.
“Nope, I’ve lived here for 42 years and I don’t know any of my neighbors. These people have lived here for 15 years (pointing across the street), and Marvin and his family have been there for 25 years (pointing next door), but gosh, I’ve never heard of a House of Prey. Why not check on the house up the road, they have birds on their mailboxes, maybe that’s what you’re looking for.”
I thanked him and looked for that mailbox. Red Cardinals were painted on the side, hardly Birds of Prey. I did find a house that was huge with an iron vulture in a cage. That’s as close as it’s gonna get, so I jotted down the answer on my card and was off. Like a rubberband that is stretched, once you turn around releasing the elastic, it seems like you get back to where you were faster and I was once again back into town getting fluids and ice cream.
I texted Mark: 50 miles to go, hopefully only 3.5 hours. He sent me a picture of the patch I was trying to earn. Riding for trinkets. It’s incredible how small a thing this patch is, but I wanted it and I needed to complete the ride in order to get it.
Back across the valley, which was hot with headwinds. Across the highway and up some nasty rollers. The sun was dropping in the sky, directly into my eyes as I pedaled West. Cars were zooming by me and I was a bit nervous again as the sun was blinding and the shoulder was non-existent. It wouldn’t take much for a car to hit me, throwing me into the ditch and continue on given the angle of the light. I stopped a few times in the shade to calm down, drink some water and then carry on.
In the early dusk I was close to town and a car came towards me with a tandem on the top. It’s Cheryl and Nigel.
Are you ok? We’ve come to look for you.
Yep, I’m only a few blocks from the finish, right?
You look great!
Hardly, but I’m almost done now. See you at the finish.
They drive off, I’m a bit confused but also thankful. How nice that they were on the lookout for me. I hump up the final hills and make the lefthand turn towards the hotel. Zoom in, hop off my bike and walk in. Corey hands me a beer. Woot!
Finished!
I’m pretty tired but triumphant and happy too! After a sit down with everyone who waited around to see me in – which was really cool – I take a shower, and Corey and I depart to find food and head back over the border to Seattle, where we crash hard. The next day I hang around Seattle with rando friends. Eat, sleep a bit and chill.
Tomorrow, I’m leaving for Colorado and on Wednesday AM, I’ll be at the start of the Last Chance 1200k. With any luck, I’ll complete it. The last step in this campaign that has been on since April. Two mantras, if you will, have been with me since my crash. One, from a friend, a woman I’ve not met, but has also suffered from a car vs bike crash. Lynn tells me that, “Motion is Lotion”. The other comes from a friends mom, who told me after Tom died, that, “The only way is forward.” Both of these have been the cornerstones of this campaign, in fact, the cornerstones of my reset.
On on.
~ Thanks for reading! Mega thanks to Corey for making the trip to BC, to Mark and Mark for all of their support, and to Roy, Cheryl, Nigel, Kyle and Rick and all of the BC randonneurs for such a fine event.
Richard Stum on September 2, 2017 at 12:29 am
Nice report Deb. Sooooo glad to see you are making progress in knocking out some long brevets. What qualifies one for the ISR (NOT SIR!) award!
Sherri on September 2, 2017 at 1:01 am
great read! You are a rock star!
David Kamp on March 8, 2020 at 3:10 am
I’ve been experimenting with various lights for occasional use, to read queue sheets, bike computer, etc, and have settled on a button LED light that dangles from my helmet strap. Can you share what helmet light you used on the 600K?
| 17,019 |
My life changed drastically after the JMT. I just couldn't be caged anymore, living the same unfulfilling life that felt fake. To find out what I've been up to, visit my YouTube Channel.
Subscribe to Alone on the JMT by Email
Sally on Arriving at Onion Valley
AloneontheJMT.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com
© Carolyn R HIggins and AloneontheJMT.com, 2016. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Carolyn R. Higgins and AloneontheJMT.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
by Carolyn Higgins
After my My Final Resupply: Dusk at camp on Olaine Lake (not on the JMT!)
With renewed energy and a feeling of “I got this-ness” I hiked away from Mammoth Lakes’ Red’s Meadow Resort and my final JMT resupply point. I navigated the confusing and ill-marked JMT/PCT trails amid the maze of Devil’s Post Pile National Monument trails, weaving in and out of the flocks of Labor Day tourists oozing manufactured human-ness: pseudo-white smiles; squeaky-clean skin reeking of overly-perfumed soap; fresh clothes cloaked in counterfeit ‘summer breeze” or ‘spring fresh” scents.
Before I even reached the Devil’s PostPile monument, less than a mile away, I realized, that despite my phone having been plugged in for hours, the battery was only at about 23% full- and that quickly drained to 13% after trying to pull up my JMT Guthook app to scout my camp for the night. Crap! I plugged it into my 12-watt solar charger, which hadn’t been working the last few days- hoping by some miracle it would suddenly come back to life. Please don’t be broken. I hoped it just wasn’t strong enough to charge a battery zapped of life by the sub-freezing nights. But no go. The tiny panels failed to turn the blazing sun into power.
I tried not to panic, despite being nervous about how I’d contact my friend Steve when I got to Yosemite Valley so he’d know it was time to come and get me (at least I’d written down his phone number on my emergency contact list in my backpack so I could always borrow a phone). But even worse, now I’ll have to rely on my maps to scout water sources and camping spots for the rest of my hike – and my topo reading skills haven’t proven to be very accurate!
I’d loaded the Guthook app before I left, hearing from friends and other backpackers on the JMT hikers Facebook group what a great tool it was for finding water sources and the best places to camp along the trail. I was hesitant – for this reason exactly. I didn’t want to be reliant on something that could be yanked away on a whim of bad luck. It’s been helpful in finding the best places to camp and water sources on the trail for the week I’ve been using it. Oh, how quickly we get used to the conveniences of modern technology! Oh well, I only have a few more days, I can live without it.
I reached into the side pocket of my hiking pants and pulled out the Ziploc bag holding the last section of the JMT map I’d just picked up from my resupply bucket. I unfolded the crisp, clean pages of the Tom Harrison maps (good ole Tom Harrison!) representing the last days of my hike. I absent-mindedly glanced over it as I forged my path through the buzzing crowds of Devils’ Post Pile National Monument.
When I got to the base of the mountain, I stopped amid bustling tourists snapping selfies and carrying plastic water bottles, to scan the area for signs back to the JMT. I couldn’t help but notice the stares. I could feel eyes on me. Despite having just showered and washed my clothes, I was conscious of my trail-worn state: my formerly light green hiking shirt now dingy with dust and dirt; the tips of five fingers bandaged with fresh medical tape; and my fatigued, weather-worn face. I felt like an exhibit; a native creature on display as part of their holiday sightseeing adventure. I tried to block out the clamor of humanity, realizing I stood out like a black sheep among the bright SHP (Shiny Happy People).
“Are you alone?”. I kept my eyes on my map, trying to ignore the voice that I knew, without looking was aimed at me. I wasn’t in the mood for another “have you seen Wild?” conversation.
“Excuse me, are you a backpacker?” Hmmm. I wonder if the 40lb backpack strapped to my back gave me away? At this point, politeness won over my annoyance at being lost in the maze of people and feeling obligated to talk to an intrusive tourist.
I looked up to see the inquisitive face of a 60-something year old man squeezed into the last few inches of a crowded bench, just a few feet in front of me. He was wearing faded-denim shorts that ended just above his swollen knees, a blue Mammoth Lakes T-shirt stretched over his round belly, white socks pulled up to his knees and pair of Keens that looked brand new. His obligatory tourist camera bag was strapped diagonally across his chest and he was grasping a Crystal Geyser water bottle with both hands on his lap. Despite the temperatures only being in the mid-80s and within a short uphill walk from the parking lot, he looked exhausted. His wife sat next to him, in white capris, a matching Mammoth Lakes T-shirt, and white Keds with little white ankle socks. She was holding her own water bottle and looked at me expectantly. I noticed she looked to be about ten years younger than him. As I looked at them, I wondered, is she younger or did she just age better?
“Yes, I’m a backpacker” I injected a good dose of feigned enthusiasm to mask my impatience. I just want to be back on the trail, away from this madness! Where is my damn trail?
The prying tourist repeated his first question, “Are you alone?” And added another, now that he had my attention, “how far have you hiked?”
As the inquisitive man and his younger-looking wife stared at me with expectant looks on their faces and interest and enthusiasm that was hard to stay annoyed at, I let my guard down and told them I was hiking the John Muir Trail and that I’d traveled nearly 200 miles. They were nice enough to say how impressed they were and couldn’t fathom doing it themselves, must less alone. And the woman added, “especially being a woman doing it alone! Wow, you’re more brave than I am!”
I learned they were from Humboldt, CA, which is just a few hours north of where I live, and had traveled to Mammoth to see their son and grandchildren who had walked the short path to the top of the monument. They wearily confided that they’d opted to skip the steep short climb and rest on the bench with the other older folks.
I was just starting to warm up to them when it all came to an abrupt halt (interject the needle screeching across the playing record sound effect here) Screeeeeeech…. the dreaded, predictable, and most annoying question nearly every solo female hiker can hear, came: “have you seen Wild? Are you like that girl in Wild?”
Gawwwd. Really? Fucking Cheryl Strayed taking away my thunder! Yes, I saw the movie. No, I’m not trying to be Cheryl Fucking Strayed. Anything else…? I flatly replied, “Yes, I saw the movie,” I tried to dilute what I was afraid was obvious annoyance, with some forced politeness and enthusiasm, “it was a great movie. But Cheryl hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, I’m hiking the JMT.” With a glance at my map, “Ok. I should hit the trail if I’m going to get to camp tonight. You both have a great vacation!” And I turned around and headed back toward the peace and solitude of the forest that never once, in 20 days asked me if I was Cheryl Strayed!
It took less than a half mile to shed the hordes of tourists, who, in my experience rarely venture to wilder parts of any national park. The trails were confusing and poorly marked: some said PCT, some said JMT and some weren’t marked at all. I finally came to a junction that was marked with a sign: “PCT- Agnew Meadows, 3.2”. Agnew Meadows! That sounds familiar! Yes, that’s where I should be heading! The JMT and PCT had been one trail for over a hundred miles; I was sure it was the right way and it sounded like the perfect place to stop for the night. Three more miles would give me just over nine miles for the day. With my long stay at Red’s, I would be happy with that!
So, without consulting my Tom Morrison map, I veered toward Agnew Meadows along the narrow, wooded path, happy to have it mostly to myself again. I passed a few tourists who dared venture off the paved well-marked trails for the national monument (the signs for Devils’ Postpile were well-marked, but NOT the trail to get me back to the JMT). As the afternoon ceded and the sun cast burnt-orange shadows on the towering conifers, my trail weariness soon replaced the temporary boost I’d gotten from Red’s. Devoured by the lush forest again with nothing but Ponderosa Pines, Aspens and Cottonwoods to keep me company, my legs felt leaden beneath my replenished pack- and I was anxious to reach Agnew Meadows and make camp for the night.
After what felt like two hours I reached a junction with a small sign pointing the way to Agnew Meadows: 1.8 miles. What? There is no way I’ve only hiked a mile and a half! How can that be?
Annoyed and too anxious to sit down, take a proper rest and study my map, I trudged on; up the trail toward Agnew Meadow. As I hiked, I thought about all the hiking books and stories I’d read, and Agnew Meadow was one of those iconic stops on the trail! This is where I’m supposed to be going, right??? It seems to be taking too long. I should be done by now. I must have hiked 9 miles by now.
I thought back to the junction with a faint path heading into the darkness of the forest and the sign I’d passed a while back; was I supposed to take that trail? But no, the sign clearly said “Agnew Meadow” in this direction. But why do I feel like I’m veering off the JMT? I begrudgingly slogged up the hill another quarter mile… I stopped. Looked around. Hiked a few more yards. Stopped, looked around again, trying to decide if I should push on or go back.
This can’t be right. Something’s wrong. I turned around and slogged back to the junction and the sign, flopped off my pack, sat in the grass, pulled out my fresh bag of home-made trail mix, took a long swig of orange flavored Nuun water and pulled out my map, carefully tracing the maze of trails through Devil’s Postpile and up toward Agnew Meadow. SHIT! No, No, No! There it was, right in front of me. How did I miss that? Way back at the first PCT/Agnew Meadow sign, the JMT and the PCT split. For weeks, the JMT and PCT had been one trail and I could follow signs for either. I knew it would split eventually, but I thought it was further along. Then the reality struck me: I AM further along. Further than I wanted to admit. I am almost to Yosemite. Almost at the End.
That sinking feeling in my gut returned, not just at being near the end, but now the added burden of being off my trail. I had hiked about 3 miles off the JMT. The good news was, the spur trail I was sitting at went back to the JMT, via Olaine Lake.
It would put me back on the trail at Shadow Lake. No real harm done, I’m just a few miles off… Not a big deal, just a slight change of plans.
I studied my map to recalibrate and plan my new camp for the night at Olaine Lake two miles away. It was already getting late in the day and my energy was depleting rapidly. I’m a morning person and by late afternoon all I want is to be done. Over the miles and days of my hike, I’d trained myself to hike past this state and eventually, I’d get a second wind. Time to pack up and walk toward that second wind!
As I hiked the narrow, faint path heading deeper into the forest, a sense of gloom enveloped me. I felt lost and abandoned on the strange trail. I missed the comfort and safety of the JMT: my home for the past 20 days. I began second-guessing myself again. Is this right? Even though I was sure I knew where I was this time, I questioned myself: are you sure you’re not lost? The trail felt abandoned and eerie. How do I know it’s not some random path to nowhere? Or worse, to the cabin of some deep-woods reclusive Unabomber psycho? I hiked on, trying to feel confident in my map reading skills.
Eventually, I heard laughing and shouting above me; the tell-tale signs of day hikers. Despite their ear drum-piercing yelps, I was immediately comforted. I’m on the right track. I’m not heading to impending doom!
They were coming down the mountain trail above me; the trail I’d have taken to Agnew Meadow, I presumed. It dawned on me that Agnew Meadows is a popular PCT stop. I’ve read too many PCT thru-hike stories, that’s why Agnew Meadows had sounded so familiar!
The hike to Olaine Lake was relatively flat and the hiking was easy and fast. I passed a couple along the way and asked if they’d seen any good camping there. Yes, they said, but the man added, “it’s not a very pretty place though, you should go a couple miles further to Shadow Lake, it’s much prettier.”
“Yes, but I’ve already done 9 miles and it’s been a long day. How’s the hike to Shadow Lake? According to the map, it looks like a steep climb along a gorge, which means no camping. Did you see camping along the way, in case I need to stop before Shadow Lake?”
“The trail isn’t bad at all. You can do it. And yeah, I think there’s some camping along the way.”
His female companion gently disagreed, “Um, I think, the climb is pretty rough—“.
The man interrupted her, “No it’s not bad. She can do it”
I thanked them and moved on, debating whether I should trust the man’s advice and keep going to Shadow Lake or stay at Olaine Lake. I liked the idea of being back home, on my trail. But that would mean two more miles: uphill miles. And if it was along a steep gorge, as it looked on the map, there’d be no camping along the way. I’d be stuck with a rough two-mile climb at the end of a long day.
About twenty minutes later, I spotted the small tree lined mountain lake. I was still contemplating whether I should move on. I couldn’t’ shake the feeling of being lost and alone, off my trail. But I didn’t exactly trust the couple’s opposing views of the climb and decided to make camp at a large clearing on the south end of the lake. As I set up, I heard voices approach the lake from the east. A group of young rowdy people stopped at the shore a couple hundred yards away. I set up my tent and then walked around the west side of the lake to explore the area, like I do at every new camp to familiarize myself with my surroundings. It helps me acclimate and sleep better.
Back at camp, I boiled water for chamomile tea and nibbled on a Bobo’s lemon poppy seed oat bar and a handful of Jelly Bellies (the “surprise “treat, I’d added to my resupply bucket!), while I boiled another pot of water to rehydrate my vegan white beans with tomatoes. I sat in the dirt with my back against a log enjoying the beauty of the lake, drinking in the warmth of my soothing tea and relishing in the jolt of energy from the sugary goodness of Jelly Bellies (I’d made a special trip to the Jelly Belly factory near my house for them! And yes, I know they aren’t vegan) and the grainy goodness of the lemon oat bar. The noisy people eventually left and I had it all to myself; just the way I like it. The sights and sounds of nature soothed me; whimsical songs of birds, playful squirrels chasing each other up and down trees and a gentle breeze blowing through the Lodgepole Pines… The day melted away and I began to relax.
Without my phone, I had nothing to read, so rather than retreat to my tent, I walked around the lake exploring the trail back to the JMT that I’ll be hiking tomorrow
As dusk settled and the shadows melted into the lake, I climbed into my tent and slid on the fuzzy pink socks (clean socks!) I’d put in my resupply bucket. I’d had the forethought to consider what a luxury they’d be toward the end of the trail! Boy was I right! I climbed inside my sleeping bag with my cozy socks and drifted off to sleep thinking about being back home on my trail tomorrow, and my last iconic stop: Thousand Island Lakes.
| 16,892 |
Careers
Careers
You might wonder why, if you are considering essays available on eBay, you would need a wholesaler. After all, who is going to offer you the high-quality work which you are looking for? Well, an article wholesaler is going to have the essential resources and the knowledge to help you find your authors without difficulty. Of course, some do not realize that they are going to obtain access to a plethora of information which may help them in locating just the right author to fulfill their needs.
Essays available on eBay are quite common. You personal pronoun checker might be tempted to buy essays available directly from the firms in question, with no understanding of who they are, however this can be a risky move. The kinds of writers that the companies that sell essays for sale are searching for are seasoned people who are qualified to write college-level essays.
This will make it very difficult for you to discover a writer that has the essential qualifications to compose for this type of business, and many of these companies don’t have an established online presence, which means there is not any information in their websites to inform others know what types of students they need, or some other information which might be beneficial to you. It can be difficult to find out this info, and may even come as a surprise.
What exactly are you likely to do when you see an essay seller on the site that you’re trying to market to, but there is nothing on their sites to help you differentiate them? Luckily, you can find out all that you will need to understand, by simply contacting the business agency and requesting information concerning the vendor’s history. If you’re able to supply your own list of queries, they should have the ability to answer grammar checker free any of your queries.
Additionally, there are several reasons why a company bureau might have no record of the seller. As you can imagine, these vendors have hardly any records to review, because most of the business sale processes are conducted by different sellers. The majority of the time, a business bureau does not collect such information because they will frequently require a business to sell its products, to not critique the work of others.
The absolute most significant thing you could do to help yourself when seeking to market your writing solutions is to make certain you understand precisely what it is you’re selling. Some sellers might assume that you are looking for affordable material, so they don’t offer a description of exactly what it is you’re searching for. When you provide a description of your composing solutions, you need to make certain it is precise and that you supply an accurate budget for each item.
Some sellers might be adaptive, and they may believe you’re only attempting to sell their goods and they will set the composing services at whatever price they need. You want to keep in mind that sellers also wish to find decent value for their money, so that they will probably set their own price guidelines, even if it’s lower than the cost you’re quoted.
Needless to say, you should always be truthful with a composition vendor, because the purpose of promoting your work is to get paid. When you’ve sold some thing to a essay vendor, they won’t expect you to provide them a precise price.
| 3,551 |
There was an article in the CACM recently that caught my attention entitled, “In Praise of Bad Programmers”
Still here?
Apparently the provocative title really sets off some fire alarms for people. I shared the article, which I personally thought was great, with a team and we discussed it together. I thought the whole conversation went really well and I thought it felt very productive. Afterward, I discovered that everyone in the room had apparently been thinking one thing: “He thinks I’m a bad programmer”. I’m not sure they recalled any of the conversation after reading the article. In fact, I’m quite sure they didn’t.
That reaction probably says a few things about us:
We don’t feel safe talking about our skills with each other
The team felt some sort of judgement was being made by me
How you frame the conversation really does make a difference
Having done this sort of thing for a while, none of the above particularly shocks or surprises me. It’s just a reminder that some conversations with teams are harder than others. You don’t avoid them, but you need to be prepared to set the stage well before the conversation, make sure the team feels safe enough to deal with the conversation, and have a way to check in with them afterward to make sure your read on the conversation isn’t incorrect.
Oh, and if they’re still angry after all that, then it’s really their problem. I’m a coach not a therapist.
| 1,416 |
“Sex and excretion are reminders that anyone’s claim to round-the-clock dignity is tenuous. The so-called rational animal has a desperate drive to pair up and moan and writhe.”
I’ve just returned from taking the dog on her morning walk. Every morning about this time, we traverse through the neighborhood out to the main road and back. This morning, as expected, was another treacherous trek. The roads remain ice and snow-covered, and temperatures remain low. the forecast calls for more snow this afternoon, continuing into tomorrow. It’s pretty clear, most of us aren’t going anywhere until the weekend.
Meanwhile, MNPS teachers remain at home looking for guidance. Tomorrow was supposed to be the reopening of school buildings for 5th and 9th graders. Just to refresh your memory, here’s what the proposed re-entry schedule looked like,
Tuesday, February 9: Grades Pre-K-4 and students with exceptional needs
Thursday, February 18: Grades 5 and 9, transition grades for Middle and High
Thursday, February 25: Grades 6, 7, and 8
Wednesday, March 3: Grades 10, 11 and 12
Since tomorrow is obviously unlikely to happen – teachers need a day at least to prepare classrooms – what’s the plan? This may not seem like a big deal to those of you who view the opening of school buildings as a simple turn-key operation but trust me, it’s a big deal.
Over the last several weeks, since the re-entry plan was announced, high school and middle school administers have realized that elementary school principals learned last Fall, there is a lot of detail that goes into conducting school. Much of it has been done for so long by so many, that it’s become almost rote. With the threat of COVID, that luxury no longer remains. Every detail must be thought out and planned for, at the same time administrators and teachers are running another school system that is open and operating. It’s a hefty, and thankless lift.
Currently 5th and 9th-grade teachers are looking for guidance, should they plan for remote instruction at the end of this week, or should they continue planning to provide in-person instruction? They aren’t the same, not even close. To further complicate matters, many of those teachers will be out next week to get the COVID vaccine, how do they plan for that?
What about everybody else? Is MNPS sticking to the proposed schedule, or will they alter it by a few days? Nobody seems to know, and if they do they are not sharing. This lack of sharing is putting everybody in a bind and raising stress levels that are already at capacity.
Ask and you shall receive. Thankfully, information was released by mid-morning that provides some needed guidance,
As a result of the winter weather, MNPS is adjusting the phase-in of students back into school buildings for in-person learning:
Grades 10, 11, and 12 will return Wednesday, March 3, as originally scheduled.
Each day before the return of students will be an asynchronous learning day for those grade levels about to return. This will give teachers and staff time to prepare for the return of students.
Much appreciated but could have come sooner.
Engaging in education policy advocacy over the last decade has left me with a keen appreciation for language, and how effective its manipulation can be in the hands of those who deign to use it so. In the early years of this decade, education reformers were all about “rigor” and the narrative that “all kids can learn”. The implications being that most instruction provided in public schools were not “rigorous” and that any mention of poverty or trauma, was simply being offered as an excuse for children not being provided “rigorous” lessons. It was an exercise too many bought into.
Most of us eventually saw through the manipulation of language, but not before the damage had been done, and public funds had been siphoned off. The last few years have brought forth the usage of the term “high-quality materials” as the latest catchphrase. The argument put forth was that low student outcomes had nothing to do with poorly designed tests and the impacts of poverty, and everything to do with districts failing to utilize “high quality” materials. School leaders embraced the new messaging without realizing that the unsaid implication was of them unknowingly prescribing inferior materials over past years. No explanation was given for the sudden ability to discern “high quality” from “low quality”. It was left to parents to blindly accept and believe.
This year has brought a couple of new phrases, that are possibly more damaging than anything brought forth in the past. The first – learning loss – has been embraced by government leaders across the country at all levels, and put forth unchallenged by the media. Every statehouse in America has legislators arguing the merits of proposed legislation supposedly designed to combat “learning loss”. As such, it has matriculated downward to the level of parents, amplifying fears brought forth by the ongoing pandemic that their children will be relegated to the status of a lost generation. Incapable of the simplest tasks, let alone providing for themselves, due to a lost year of entry into school buildings.
As I previously mentioned, the media is complicit in this urban legend as well. Most education writers have seen the data and understand the measurements supplied by the assessments conducted do not provide evidence of arguments put forth. In private conversations, they will acknowledge that no data supports the supposition being made by politicians and career bureaucrats. But either out of laziness or a subscription to the “if it bleeds, it ledes” mentality, they keep right on regurgitating the half-truths unchallenged. Either knowingly, or unwittingly, the results are the same, increased parental uncertainty.
As a parent myself, I am well versed in the fear that is inherent in the raising of children. I constantly question every action and decision I make. Am I being involved enough or am I being too involved? Every action my child makes is analyzed as a possible predictor of their future success or failure. Every successful accomplishment, no matter how minute, is seen as verification that they are on the right path, and the inverse holds true for the negative. Intellectually, I know that odds are in their favor and that most likely they will be fine, but in my gut, it’s hard to let go of that irrational fear. Even when on the surface I discard implied dangers, the fear of being wrong is never far.
The reality is that “learning loss” is not a real phenomenon and as such we have no way to measure it. That recently passed Tennessee bill called the “learning loss” bill might be just as accurately be labeled the “boogyman bill.”
To be fair, an argument can be made that kids are learning desired lessons at a different pace, but that is not to be confused with “loss” and there is no developmental obstacle that will prevent them from picking up those lessons at a later point. To infer such is disingenuous. Remember grade levels are a social construct, a collection of opinions on what children should know at a certain point. They are not tablets from the mountain.
Also, keep in mind, learning is the natural state of children. They are in a perpetual state of learning, as any parent can attest, though sometimes they are picking up things we don’t want them to. All learning has value, so while they may not be learning one thing you can bet they are learning others. Life is unpredictable, which makes assigning value to lessons impossible. Yes, learning to read is vital, but there is no indication that how fast you learn has a negative or positive effect on the quality of your future life. Kids that learn to read at 7 or 8, can lead just as productive lives as those that learn to read at age 4 or 5, and the opposite also holds true.
Tennessee’s Governor has painted a picture of children losing upwards of a year of education if school buildings are not reopened immediately. Again, what does that mean? I agree, with Peter Greene, he should reprint his piece on “days of learning” every single day to counter the propaganda put forth by others.
But what exactly is a day of learning? Classroom teachers know that a Monday is not equal to a Friday or a Wednesday. Surely it’s not the day that students get out early, or the day that is interrupted by an assembly, or the day that the teacher was pulled out for meetings, or the day that the baseball team was dismissed early for an away game. Certainly not the day that everyone in school was reeling and preoccupied because of a local tragedy. A day in September is not the same as a day in April, and certainly not any day in the season that we’re approaching, because from mid-November until the end-of-year break classroom teachers are extra-challenged to get a day out of a day.
So when is it? When does this proto-typical day, this day on which exactly one day’s worth of learning occurs? Where is education’s answer to Lebanon, Kansas (the geographic center of the contiguous U.S.)? Is it a statistical anomaly like the 1.9 children being raised by the average U.S. family? Can this measure be broken down more precisely? Can we talk about hours of learning? Minutes? Seconds?
In AA, we are encouraged to get out of our heads. To share thoughts that in our mind may sound reasonable and rational, but when exposed to the ear of another, fail to hold water. This seems applicable in this instance as well.
Of course, to those invested, “learning loss” was such a popular trope, that the opposite had to hold true as well. Thus we’ve begun to hear about “learning acceleration”. Apparently, we’ve had the ability all along to speed up how children accumulate knowledge, because the tools being proposed for this endeavor – tutoring, summer school, “high quality” texts – are all nothing new. Which begs the question, why haven’t we applied them on scale in the past? And, is it possible to complete 12 years of learning in 6? Because if so, life would be easier if I could get these kids out earning a living before completely 12 years of schooling.
In the case of summer school, I wonder how many people have looked closely at what recent legislation in Tennessee is proposing. In the past, summer school has lasted half a day, but under new regulations, districts will be required to provide a full 7.5 hours of instruction. In other words, the state is requiring full-time schooling without full-time funding. The legislation is also requiring a 90% attendance rate from students. Good luck with that in the summer months.
As time has progressed, it’s become increasingly clear that the priority of politicians and the economic-minded are focused on getting school building back open in order to satisfy their own agendas. How else do you explain the sudden commitment to equity for black and brown kids by those who’ve never expressed such concerns in the past? My kids spent nearly all their schooling to date in a school that was predominately minority and economically disadvantaged, there were never this many advocates clamoring for their needs.
Unfortunately, for those pushing the reopening agenda, the threat of “learning loss” hasn’t been sufficient to propel things forward at the desired pace. It was time to bring a boogyman in. Since they were already in the recycling business, might as well recycle a boogyman. Cue the ominous music while I introduce the teacher’s union.
Decades ago, when they were fighting for little things like a living wage, tenure, safety in the workplace, teacher’s unions were often painted in a negative light. As if somehow what was good for teachers was bad for children. A concept that has mostly faded away due to a preponderance of contrary evidence. Over the years, unions have helped improve working conditions and salaries for teachers, who in turn were able to better serve students.
Teachers are rightfully concerned with opening schools before doing so can be done safely. Especially in urban districts where schools served those most impacted by the pandemic. That whole sying early and/or forced hospitalization thing is rather decidedly unattrative to most. Since the teachers union is made up of teachers, the unions rightfully pushed back against plans to re-open buildings before safety could be ensured. Notice I said “buildings” and not “schools”. There is a big difference between the two, despite what some advocates for re-entry would have you believe.
Proponents of re-opening like to try and paint a picture of schools being closed and teachers abandoning their charges. Using words and phrases like, “reopen schools” and “fighting to not return to work”. The reality is exactly the opposite. Teachers never abandoned their responsibilities and as a result, most schools have been opened since September, no easy feat.
Teaching remotely is very different than teaching in person. The challenges are unique to both. As a result, many teachers were ill-prepared to teach students in a remote setting. Per usual though, they dove in and did the best they could, working longer hours without an increase of pay. Let me say that again, in case those in the back missed it…longer hours, no increase in pay.
Where schools were able to open, those teachers also had to adapt. An adaption that once again required long hours with no increase in compensation.
In case you haven’t caught on yet, being a teacher over the last year, hasn’t been a lot of fun. In fact, it’s mostly sucked, the rewards and benefits coming with declining frequency. Still, they have soldiered on, and how do we reward them? By insinuating that they don’t want to work. By insinuating that they are fighting to avoid meeting the requirements of their job. It’s like me giving you a 100 dollar bill every day for a year, and then you call me cheap because I’ve sent it through Venmo instead of dropping it off daily at your house.
I can hear the protestations now, “We love teachers. It’s the unions that aren’t looking out for kids.” or the other familiar refrain, “You know not all teachers support the union.”
Newsflash! Regarding the latter, all teachers may not support the union, but I can guarantee that all have benefitted from the unions. About the former, it’s teachers who make up the union. As such, how do they benefit by keeping buildings closed? I would be loathed to join a union that made me work three times as hard and earn the same salary while denying me the central opportunity for which I chose to pursue teaching as a profession. Teachers teach so they can work with students, as unsatisfying as remote instruction has been for students it has been equally so for teachers. Therefore maybe teachers are actually concerned about being hospitalized or dying.
The current situation has been beneficial to no one, but that’s kind of how a crisis works. It forces us to do things in a manner other than our preference until the crisis is mitigated. In the middle of a financial crisis, you don’t get to keep going to the movies while the mortgage goes unpaid. Maybe you only get to watch movies on Television until you increase your income, even if commercials make the experience less pleasurable.
We might think that since we are tired of it, the pandemic is nearing its end. But if you look at the data, that is clearly not the case. In fact, for the last week, the number of cases has been trending upward. Over the last week, the new cases rate for Davidson County has nearly doubled. An inconvenient truth.
Despite the best attempts by some, it is a mistake to try and compare smaller homogenous districts to those much larger eclectic districts. The populations served by each, make the risks and challenges very different. CDC guidelines are just that, guidelines not tablets from on high. They provide a means for schools to potentially open safely, but only if certain elements are satisfied. Not every district is capable of addressing those elements and meeting those requirements to the level of ensuring safety. Perhaps if we’d invested more money in the past this wouldn’t be the case today, but unfortunately, we didn’t and it is.
Even with all the knowledge around the virus that we’ve gained since the Spring, there is still much we don’t know. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) in children is a troubling complication of Covid-19 infection that can cause heart damage and typically shows up about three weeks after a child has been infected. Many MIS-C cases follow a Covid-19 infection that had no symptoms. News reports come today that indicate these cases are increasing. Personally, I would prefer to error on the side of caution. But some of you may be good with looking at your kids at some point in the future and saying, “Damn, but Dad got that one wrong.” Me not so much.
I suspect rural politicians are in a hurry to get urban districts open because they recognize where the majority of the revenues of the state are generated from. It’s like a university, everybody wants to take shots at the football program, conveniently forgetting that revenues generated by the football program make multiple other programs possible.
Before closing, I’d like to point out one other element that has been revealed by current events. The fight to re-open the building has forced a discussion into who is being serviced by public schools. I’ll admit that, while I was aware of the shift in demographics, I was unaware of the dramatic shift that’s taken place over the last couple of decades. According to the National Center for Education Statistics,
Between fall 2000 and fall 2017, the percentage of public school students who were White decreased from 61 to 48 percent, and the percentage of students who were Black decreased from 17 to 15 percent. In contrast, the percentage of public school students who were Hispanic increased from 16 to 27 percent during the same period.
It’s a trend that is predicted to continue through to 2029. I find that concerning because without the public, are we really talking about public education?
In this day and age, we like to believe that little is beyond our control and that we are the masters of our universe. Mother Nature likes to remind us on the occasion of the error in that assumption. We can do various things to influence the pace, but ultimately life works at its own rate. In time the pandemic will fade and the danger will wane. Kids will resume in-person instruction and most will acquire skills required for success either in school buildings or remotely.
Hopefully, we will learn from this time period and continue to take steps to be better prepared in the future. But if the past is any indication, that might just be wishful thinking. Afterall, In the, “can’t make this stuff up” department, the Center Square reported this week that Governor Lee’s administration was signing a $3 million consulting contract with the McKinsey Organization while investigating the company and negotiating a $15 settlement with them for their role in Opioid Crisis. I’m sure this time it will be different.
Or will it, reports are coming out from New York that the global consulting firm accused of having a role in the opioid crisis, helped New York’s health department author a report that was used to absolve Gov. Andrew Cuomo of blame in the nursing home scandal.
Remember, it’s not the words, but rather, how you use them.
If you’ve got time and are looking for a smile, check out the Dad Gone Wild Facebook page, where we work to accentuate the positive.
If you’ve got something you’d like me to highlight and share, send it on to Norinrad10@yahoo.com. Any wisdom or criticism you’d like to share is always welcome.
A huge shout out to all of you who’ve lent your financial support. I am eternally grateful for your generosity. It allows me to keep doing what I do and without you, I would have been forced to quit long ago. It is truly appreciated and keeps the bill collectors happy. Now more than ever your continued support is vital.
If you are interested, I’m now sharing posts via email through Substack. This is a new foray for me and an effort to increase coverage. ‘ll be offering free and paid subscriptions. Paid subscriptions will receive additional materials as they become available. We’ll see how it goes.
If you wish to join the rank of donors, you can still head over to Patreon and help a brother out. Or you can hit up my Venmo account which is Thomas-Weber-10. I don’t need much – even $5 would help – but if you think what I do has value, a little help is always greatly appreciated, especially this time of year when my contracted work is a little slow. Not begging, just saying.
5 replies
February 17, 2021 • 4:57 pm
ok let’s report on some real questions please and your intro quote today does not do much for me either sorry
Question what becomes of the governors big bonanza current year bonus for teachers? some other districts have said their dollar amounts so is ours 0$ or is ours $250? this was supposed to be 2% but what do you want to bet it is 250$ or maybe even less
Question what is budget situation in city+district this spring ACTUALLY do we have latitude to provide new supports beyond headline making ones about summer camp or are we in preservation mode for 2022 coz seeing stuff like “hiring pool 2022” on the HR website is not a comforting sight
Question is the set of MAP centric dashboard and student goal stuff that is about the be rolled out any use or is it just some more window dressing to get the media to bite
Question can we see the projections metro is going from for next years building counts and demographics and can we trust them
Question does curriculum and instruction have the stomach to stand up and say fvs and practically all the other off the shelf products under use or consideration are not long term solutions by themselves or are we going to see a whole generation of early career teachers told to just stick to the script next year (ok here i will abide by your broken record being right twice a day but lets direct the heat to the right people)
Question doesnt the number of pd days in the 2022 calendar seem a little over the top what with there being only 4 built in snow days in that years calendar hello nashville maybe youve got a secret plan there dr battle but im not seeing it exactly
Question are we actually going to fund texts and textbooks and materials and cte goodies next year or are we going hide behind crap about digital platforms or lack of money or something like that because the state program for reading isnt going to fund everything we need and there are other subjects too
Question how much are we actually saving with the heat off and the buses idle is it real dough or is it just enough to keep us from being in the red
Question are the building subs permanently baked in the future year budgets or is that just one time money because every building needs that to continue forever
February 17, 2021 • 5:01 pm
I thought that intro might raise some eyebrows. The rest, I’ll try and provide some answers come Friday.
February 18, 2021 • 5:51 pm
“Question are the building subs permanently baked in the future year budgets or is that just one time money because every building needs that to continue forever” is my number one question/hobbyhorse, since I’m one of those building subs.
I love it; I get to do something new every day, I know all 400 kids in the building, the day flies by because I’m busy.
But I have ZERO faith in HR continuing this. They do exactly the opposite of what they SHOULD do Every. Single. Time. Building subs are needed pandemic or not. I’ll be there virtually tomorrow; I’ll be in the building Monday. So will all the other building subs. We and the day-to-day subs will keep the lights on and the kids learning, even though we’ve had no raise in … years. Oh, and my vaccine appointment isn’t until the 24th; I’ve just been crossing my fingers since October.
“Learning loss?” A pathetic, ludicrous term. They’re learning. I see it happen every single day, just as I see exhausted, never-give-up teachers working 80-hour weeks for 37.5-hour pay.
Thanks for all the writing you do.
February 19, 2021 • 12:31 pm
TC I was thinking about you today as I was reading another article on the current state of dismay regarding opening of the schools across the country. With Mayor Lightfoot grateful she has control of the schools thanks to Ed “reformer” Rahm Emmanuel. But in reality we can thank another Chicago reformer, Arne Duncan who was Secretary of Ed under Obama. The man who gave us Race for the Top, the Common Core and the Digital Transformation of Education.
Here is a link to his speech on the subject… https://www.ed.gov/news/speeches/digital-transformation-education-us-secretary-education-arne-duncans-remarks-state-edu
Remember the Robot as Teacher idea that was peddled. I believe Nashville still use a program for online learning for kids to pick up HS credits..widely panned it was used in Seattle as well.
Then we have the list of all the schools using online curriculum.. ah Rocketship another casualty… which I know you recall… https://www.ed.gov/oii-news/use-technology-teaching-and-learning
Now suddenly in person learning with a Teacher is the key to stop suicides etc. A year ago there were issues over the same subject due ot anxiety created by schools and parents to succeed. Remember bullying and of course school shootings. I will never forget the drill at one school ironically the day I was monitoring an online academy class. I just shut the door and thought if this ever happens here I will just be on the other side and walk out.. the lack of respect still boggles me… and you have a Sub posting about his wages.. yes you make as much as a Barista and I was credentialed/licensed and degreed. Never again would I set foot in a Nashville school but I can say that about any until they can value me first as a human being. I recall teaching in windowless closets running down halls overcrowded, using filthy toilets, and cleaning up after kids eating meals in classrooms. All of that is HIGH RISK. And this is what they want Teachers and others to go back to.. sounds great sign me up!
| 26,774 |
Though much of her early life, including her real name and exact date of birth, remains in shadow, Laura Keene is thought to have come from a well-to-do background. She was widely read and spent time in Turner’s studio during her childhood. After performing with Madame Vestris’ company, Keene journeyed to New York in 1852 at the invitation of James W. Wallack. She became the leading lady of his theater and enjoyed great success.
[works by] [relationships of]
While not much is known about the early life of Edward Mallen, he is remembered as an artist and frequenter of Pfaff's. William Winter identifies "Edward F. Mullen" as one of the artists who frequented Pfaff’s Cave along with Launt Thompson, George Boughton, and Sol Eytinge, Jr. ( Old Friends 66, 88). Walt Whitman, a close friend of his, is also quoted as saying that "Mullin" was "among the leaders" at Pfaff’s (Bohan 134; T. Donaldson 208-209).
[works by] [relationships of]
Born on Long Island and raised in Brooklyn, Walt Whitman spent his childhood and early adulthood amid the sights and sounds of New York City and its environs. As a young man Whitman worked as a journeyman printer for several New York newspapers, before ultimately becoming a journalist and editor in his own right. Before committing himself to poetry, Whitman also worked intermittently as a schoolteacher, a carpenter, and a writer of sensational prose fiction.
| 1,445 |
The world I have been experiencing lately has had me thinking a lot about perspective: my perspective, the perspectives of others, how to widening my perspective, yet sharpen my focus, how to hear and understand the perspective of others, and many other angles.
Perspective is complicated, but I think it is an important part of how we go about solving complex problems. I think this is especially true when those problems, and the solutions, involve more than one person.
To aid in this discussion, here is today’s evidence that all life lived is relative and dependent on perspective. The picture above is of beautiful Lily’s Lake outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. However, I’m pretty sure in many places on the East Coast of the U.S. it would be named as Lily’s Pond. This is not to say that it has been misnamed, rather I’m pointing out that how we see something is dependent on our prior experiences.
If we have limited prior experience, than we will limit our perspective. Here’s the thing: everyone has limited prior experience. Regardless of age or of life lived, no one can have every possible experience. I’m making what I hope is an obvious point, because I think it is a point that is often missed when trying to have discussions with others, especially when the individuals involved may have wildly different perspectives.
This point needs to be acknowledged and respected. By acknowledging that we all have something to learn from each other we open our minds to try understand from where someone else is coming. By opening our eyes, ears, and minds to the experiences of others we can expand our own perspectives.
There is a benefit to expanding your perspective. It allows for more knowledge, from which to draw upon when solving problems.
To expand one’s perspective, I think it it worth seeking out new and novel experiences. I think that having more experiences will allow one to be able to question their own perspectives. By questioning one’s own perspective, a person may in fact able to be more sure of where they stand with the solution to a problem. At the very least, it allows one to acknowledge that there may be multiple solutions to a problem.
If we insist we are looking at a lake while someone else insists that they are looking at pond, instead of just agreeing that it is a body of water, it will be difficult to move together toward any solution.
Posted in Uncategorized
Posted by tedjgraham
Everyone has it.
We don’t always see it; we don’t always appreciate it. This is true even with our own value.
We need to take time and pause; take time to reflect. Take time to see the value that others have and that we have. Everyone has strengths, even if sometimes those strengths need to found and developed.
We should see the value in others—we need to. We need to look with open eyes, we need to look both beyond and within ourselves. This is especially true when individuals can’t see the value in themselves.
Valuing others is one way we can work to fulfill our collective potential.
Our personal value is not increased at the expense of others, rather, our value is increased when we respect and develop the worth of others. The ability to accomplish this starts with open eyes, continues with an open mind, and grows with an open heart. Great accomplishments can be at hand through teamwork, but to begin, one must realize the value of all those involved.
Posted in Uncategorized
Posted by tedjgraham
Recent world, local, and personal events have had me ruminating on a particular childhood saying: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”
Why is it that we lie to children like this? Why is it that we teach children to lie to themselves? The hard truth is that words do hurt. Words have meaning. We use words to communicate. We use words to spread ideas and to discuss feelings and emotions. We use words to motivate and inspire and persuade.
Unfortunately, we also use words to berate, weaken, harm, and sow doubt. Words are used to drive people apart.
We (yes this includes me) do not always choose our words carefully. We don’t always get across what we want to communicate because we often let our emotions get the better of us. Also, we can not always control how our messages are received. Worse yet, sometimes the intent is to cause harm with our words.
We always need to try to communicate clearly. We need to control our words. There are individuals in the world who understand this concept and use the power of their words to cause division and discontent. There are those who use words to damage, to hurt, to oppress, to weaken, and to shame. Thankfully, there are also those whose words are used to develop worth and to build pride, to strengthen bonds, and to shine light in the darkness.
My words may not always be elegant, gracious, or the clearest, but if I do not attempt to use my words, then I am doing myself a disservice. There is power in words and through words I can find my own power. This power may start small, but at least it is something and it is better than wasting it and not using it at all. I hope that what power of words I do possess can bring people together. I hope that it can help people to think for themselves and that it can serve to build bridges between those with different ideas, opinions, and beliefs.
Because I have learned that words have power, I find that it is my duty to use words to instigate thought and constructive discourse.
Another saying that is often thrown about is, “the pen is mightier than the sword.” I think that this one happens to be true. It is not through the sword that we will bring peace, equality, and education to the world, but with the pen. This is because the pen (communication) requires time and patience, and can explain subtleties while the sword is swift and unyielding and does not leave space for deliberation.
The sword divides, while with the right words the pen can unite .
Posted in Relationships
Oct 21
Posted by tedjgraham
I have many reasons to create space for authentic scientific inquiry in my classes, but at the core, I think of this as a democratic issue. I believe that students have a right to participate in their own education and also that to become engaged members of a democratic society, students need to be critical inquisitors. This would create better space for those students to become adults who are both problem-solvers and problem-finders, so that they may play a role in shaping society around them, rather than just being shaped by society.
Posted in Uncategorized
An Incident and Some Questions
Oct 18
Posted by tedjgraham
Recently, I’ve been doing reading on critical incidents as a way to problematize reflection on teaching. This reading had me thinking about a specific example that could illustrate this. I came across one the other day, involving a lesson that was being taught by myself and another teacher to different classes. We were teaching to the same type of class, and on paper it looked like we were teaching the same lesson. However, the bit of the lesson that I witnessed the other teacher teaching, seemed very different then the approach I took. I attempted to give my students freedom to work through the activity/lab themselves, which also meant leaving room for my students to make mistakes. When I saw the other teacher doing the same lesson, they were being walked through the activity step by step, with the more technical sections being completed by the teacher. Though this most likely reduced the mistakes made by the students, I worry that it also reduced the opportunity for students to work through problems on their own. I have the perspective that working through problems is at the heart of scientific inquiry, and it is also a skill that needs to be developed. If we never cut the strings as teachers, it will be difficult for students to function independently when they are at last faced with that freedom. This may not be the perspective of my colleague. My colleague may think that a strong foundation is necessary before the big inquiry can begin. In this particular case, I can’t know for sure that either of us is right…or maybe we both are right. There may be more than one way to reach the same end goal.
It would be dangerous for me to make assumptions looking on the outside in. I don’t see this class everyday. I don’t get to see what the teacher is building. I, unfortunately, have not had the opportunity to sit and hash out the teacher’s motivations with him. I know that this teacher wants to create critical thinkers, however, I think the daily pressures of classroom requirements inhibit the creation of an inquiry environment. I see a combat between desire and practicality. I want to find a way that we can help each other to move and reshape practical pressures so that educational desires become educational reality.
This is not only a lesson in the dangers of assumption or jumping to conclusions, but the need for us as educators to work together–to inquire together. For us to find and then solve the problems together. Because too often they will be more complex then then first appear to be.
Posted in Uncategorized
Sep 20
Posted by tedjgraham
“The unfinished character of human beings and the transformational character of reality necessitate that education be an ongoing activity.” Friere
Posted in Uncategorized
Why I Inquire, and Hope Others Do Too
Sep 20
Posted by tedjgraham
When it comes to the goals I have as an educator, helping to develop students who realize their full potential is top of the list. In large part, this means developing students who become life long learners, and in turn fully literate, critically problem-solving citizens in the world.
To me as a science teacher, this means that I must develop students who are curious about, and inquire into the world around themselves, yet can see beyond themselves. This also means, not just becoming problem solvers, but problem finders.
Unfortunately I teach in a reality in which there is no evidence that teaching leads to learning. Rather than despair in this (as I temporarily did in the past), I interpret this to mean my job is to create an environment that is the most possible conducive to learning the knowledge and skills that students will need to be the best problem finders and solvers that they can be.
However, if I can accomplish this, it is not satisfying enough for me to only accomplish this within the classrooms I teach. If education, and in particular science education, is to fulfill its potential to develop students who can solve the problems of the world, and the problems of the world that do not exist yet, then teachers need to work as a team to develop the learning environments conducive to this goal.
Therefore, I see a need not to solve our problems of developing inquiry skills at the level of the student. Instead I see the need to help develop a learning environment that supports problem finding and problem solving across classrooms, across schools, across the country, and across the world.
Posted in Uncategorized
Nov 23
Posted by tedjgraham
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending my first EdCamp-EdCampNJ (#edcampnj). I had high expectations for this event, and I’m happy to say I wasn’t let down. I will admit to being more than a bit overwhelmed though. There was such great learning going on and such great people to collaborate with I wish I could have cloned myself several times over for the day.
I could talk about the wonderful people I met, the great sessions I attended, or the great resources and strategies I picked up, instead I’d like to reflect on the overall quality of this type of professional development. EdCamp allows all the professionals to control their own learning, and by working collaboratively, help grow from where they are, to where they want to be. This is truly relevent professional development, because we had ownership of the learning. (Something we should want to create for our students.) Even better, is that because of the connections made throughout the day, this learning didn’t stop when we left for the day-it will be ongoing.
EdCampNJ brought together 300 educators (in person, there were more than a few attending virtually), as well as at least one inspiring student I met. The freedom of the EdCamp set up allowed all of us to be where we wanted, when we wanted, with whom we wanted. Like I said, I was a bit overwhelmed with all the choices, and at one point in the day took advantage of 4 different sessions in the same time period just because i wanted to gain more knowledge.
And gain knowledge I did. I learned (and hopefully contributed to the learning of others) all day long and all night long, thanks to the conversations the event ignited on Twitter. There was so much expertise gathered at Linwood Middle School and it provided such tremendous opportunity. The collaborative nature of the sessions really was the best part-the knowledge of everyone was respected. We all have something great to share about what we do as educators, and that idea was embraced yesterday. By meeting each other where we are we can move forward together.
It’s true that none an know everything, but that’s ok-as long as we keep working together to share what we do know, grow that knowledge, keep learning, and moving our profession forward. I know that I grew as person and a professional at EdCampNJ and I can’t wait to share my new knowledge and help in someone else’s professional growth.
I just want to thank all the organizers of EdCampNJ for creating an environment for such honest and organic collaboration, and for the opportunity to meet some great members of my PLN.
For this of you reading this who couldn’t attend the event, here are links to the sessions’ docs; Smackdown resources; and pictures to get you fired up for next year. (Save the Date-11/22/14) I plan on doing my part to turn 300 attendees into 600 just like Billy Krakower (@wkrakower) wants.
Posted in Education, Professional Development
Tags: EdCamp, Education, Educators, Learning, Professional development, Teacher
A Need to Share
Nov 7
Posted by tedjgraham
Why do I take what I do so seriously? It’s a deceptively easy question.
First, it’s my passion. But just as importantly it’s my responsibility-my moral and ethical responsibility. As educators we are all moral actors, entrusted with the development of society’s future.
My actions have a direct impact on the lives of students. And I take great pride in the fact that I do my best to empower my students with knowledge.
We live in a society where the amount of knowledge is growing exponentially. We cannot possibly deliver all of this knowledge, but we can facilitate the development of skills that will allow our students to seek and understand this knowledge. This is at the heart of our responsibility. In fact, I believe this is our moral imperative as educators.
It is our duty to treat all our students equitably; to meet their individual needs to the best of our ability. To whatever extent we are capable, we need to help our students grow into the greatest of their potential. Regardless of who our students are, they have this potential. It is our duty to help them develop the tools they will need throughout their life’s journey.
In order for our students (this generation and every generation thereafter) to be empowered, we need to help them develop to their fullest potential. As clichéd as it might be, knowledge is power. If we shortchange our students ability to access, understand, and use this knowledge, we are disempowering them. We cannot let this happen. I truly believe that we are stronger and better together. Therefore, empowering all of our students, benefits every one of us.
Sometimes, with all the stresses of being an educator, we can lose sight of this. We shouldn’t. I believe that is one of the biggest reasons we need to work together. In order to help our students, we have to help ourselves first. If we are not empowered, if we do not own our actions, we cannot model this for our students. It can be so difficult, downright impossible, to fulfill your potential by yourself.
I implore you to reflect on your practice. Share your strengths. Admit your weaknesses. Work to develop them both. None of us are alone-reach out, collaborate, grow.
We need to be proud of what we do, and share it.
Posted in Education
Why We Connect
Nov 2
Posted by tedjgraham
Learning is about making connections. School is about relationships.1 Relationships require making connections.
Building relationships has always required making connections and people have long been a social species.2 As the world of connected educators moves beyond Connected Education month, I would like to focus your attention on the idea that educators have long had the opportunity to join together and learn from each other. However, now we are living in a society that requires this from us. I, and many others, take great joy in the fact that the technology now exists to help us make many new and diverse connections in faster and easier ways. 3
At the heart of the relationships we need to develop are the relationships we cultivate with our students. They are the reason we got into, and remain in, education. Cultivating these relationships allow our student to learn on a deeper level. However, if we are not connecting with other educators beyond our classroom, we are not exposing our students to the best possible learning. We do not know everything, and if we are going to facilitate the education our students receive properly, we must acknowledge this. I make this arguement because if we do not foster our connections, we do not continue learning ourselves, and sadly begin to stagnate.
Making connections starts with the conversations we have in our own buildings. We need to go to the classroom next door and down the hall. We need to learn from not only other educators but other students as well. The truth is, many times we are not aware of what we do not know. If we do not expose ourselves to new experiences we will never reach our full collaborative potential and never create the best educational experiences for our students.
These local connections are just the beginning. When we limit our community, there is the chance that we warp each other’s visions. I am fortunate to have grown my Professional Learning Network not only across the country but internationally as well. Thishas allowed me to see new perspectives and new ideas that directly benefit my students. This is the real reason we must connect across borders–both literal and figurative. Our students deserve no less.
One of my new favorite quotes, courtesy of George Couros (@gcouros), is “The smartest person in the room is the room.” We are quickly moving to the point that our room is truly global, however, we all need to remember that in order to learn we need to listen.
In order to build our success we must tear down the walls of our own making.
1This being a blog, I’ll spare you the research, but if you’re interested in some further reading, here is a piece to check out:
Also, there are active educator communities on Google+, Pinterest, Facebook, and even email listservs from professional orginizations. The kist goes on…
Posted in Education, Relationships
Tags: Connected Education, Education, Educational technology, Methods and Theories, Technology, Twitter
Recent Posts
Lakes and Ponds
An Incident and Some Questions
January 2017
October 2016
September 2016
November 2013
Education
Register
Log in
Comments feed
Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
| 20,725 |
The most common way to take CBD oil is to drop a few drops under the tongue and hold them for two minutes before swallowing. CBD oil passes from the stomach without being affected by acids and becomes effectively assimilable in a short time best cbd oil.
The absorption of CBD varies greatly from individual to individual, especially in relation to their weight and build Where can i buy cbd oil?
The best advice is always to consult the attending physician for an opinion on the amount to be taken and on the modality. In the evening, before going to sleep, it is generally always the best solution given its relaxing effect.
The effects of CBD
To fully understand the effects of CBD we must emphasize that our brain already has its own endocannabinoid system. In fact, our body normally produces endocannabinoid substances that interact with our cells through special receptors.
In summary, even without particular therapeutic uses, CBD can help the mind to relax and can be very useful for those people who suffer from anxiety, stress and agitation. As for the body, on the other hand, CBD helps to promote recovery and reduce muscle pain as well as helps and improve states of tension.
Difference between CBD and THC
In the link with the receptors there is also the difference between CBD and the other famous cannabinoid: THC .
THC, tetrahydrocannabinol together with CBD is the main component of Hemp. Except that THC, unlike CBD, produces psychoactive effects, that is, it has the ability to alter the condition of our mind: for example, it causes in the consumer sensations of euphoria, relaxation, also changing the space-time perception.
Previous PostPrevious Reasons Why Home Equity Loan is a Great Investment
Next PostNext Be unique than competitors and offer superior service for your customers
Who We Are?
The Author is anyone can trust when it comes to providing world-class and fool-proof end-results in a timely manner. And that alone is enough reason for his clients to seek his expertise every time they need something done.
| 2,071 |
If you have a recent injury that you acquired in the last few weeks and it is still sore at rest (when you are not moving the part) then no, it’s not the right time. In my opinion, you need to wait until the pain is less than 4/10 intensity and intermittent ( not constant, just on and off pain) before you start doing yoga. This is particularly true if you are new to yoga. If you’ve done yoga before and you are familiar with the poses, then choose poses that don’t hurt your sore part until the pain has died down. If you are getting treatment for the injury ( from your doc or physio), then ask their advice before you start.
If you have a long-standing injury or ailment, which is stable enough i.e. overall not getting better or worse, and the pain intensity is less than 4/10, then you can definitely consider doing yoga. In fact, it will probably help your injury to recover…but only if you follow these rules:
· Never cause yourself pain – no grey area here – pain is not allowed during a yoga class, otherwise you can injure yourself or make a previous injury worse. A stretchy soreness is okay, like when you are stretching out something tight, but no more than 4/10 discomfort.
· If you have a background pain that is ALWAYS there, then at the very least you must not make this background pain worse during the yoga class – you must be the same level of pain or better after the class has ended.
· Be willing to be different! Don’t follow me in doing a pose that is hurting your injury…either leave that pose out ( do some deep breaths instead) or do YOUR version of the pose that doesn’t hurt ( tweak the movement to steer clear of your pain). Be brave – we don’t have to be like sheep! I love seeing people do their own version: it shows they are being responsible.
· Be responsible for YOU. Yes, self-responsibility is really important. Don’t just hand over your body to a yoga teacher to instruct, you need to really tune into your body – decide for yourself whether something is suiting your body or not.
· Always keep within your comfort zone. So yes, it’s good to push yourself a bit in yoga, but get the balance right: push yourself a bit but stay on control and still at the level where you are enjoying the class….otherwise, what’s the point of doing it?
· Work the nearby joints/muscles instead of the sore area itself. As a physio, when someone has a knee problem, I’ll always end up getting them to focus on their hips ( above) and feet ( below) during a yoga class. Or if someone has a lower back problem, I get them to work on their hip and legs ( below) and their upper back ( above). Get the idea?
· If in doubt, book a 1:1 session with me to start with and then join a class.
· Check out my ‘Mind Your Body’ series of videos , explaining how to mind your joints during a yoga class. Have a look here.
What if you have a medical condition?
Once again, depending on the condition, yoga is possible and might even help you to relax and enjoy your body again. The best thing to do is firstly check with your doctor if it is ok to do yoga, and then tell me so that I know what adjustments you might need during the class or whether you need a 1:1 class before joining a class. Here are the most common precautions:
· If you fall pregnant, you definitely need to tell your teacher. Some of the poses aren’t advisable during pregnancy, even before your bump starts to show. There are many teachers specialising in pregnancy yoga so you won’t be left out!
· If you’ve had an operation in the last 6 months, you need to check with your doctor that you are ready to take up a yoga class. And once again, let your teacher know so they can guide you properly.
· If you have low blood pressure, you may get dizzy after some of the poses, so you may need to take extra care coming OUT of the poses…talk to your teacher about this to get specific advice.
· If you have high blood pressure, there are also some poses that don’t suit, especially the ones with your head upside down, so you may need to adjust certain poses for you.
· Detatched retina is another condition that means you have to avoid certain poses, especially those that have your head upended.
In general, yoga should feel good for your body, even when you are working it hard. Any dizziness or nausea is a sign that something about the poses isn’t good for you, and you need to stop or adjust them. Becoming breathless is normal during a movement class, but not to the level where you are losing control of your breathing.
So the general rule is stay within your comfort zone and stop if any discomfort occurs. Let your teacher know what your issues are before you sign up, so they can guide you through things.
Email me: sinead@yogaphysiozone.com for details of my classes or to book.
#yogawithinjury
16 views0 comments
Post not marked as liked
Recent Posts
Chronic Pain and how Somatics might help
I hate the word ‘chronic’. It sounds, well….. kinda chronic! In medical terms, chronic pain is considered to be pain lasting longer than 3 months, which is the longest expected healing time for most n
Post not marked as liked
Lymphatics are a subject close to my heart but sadly they either get ignored or get such a bad press – mainly because when they are damaged, they can cause all kinds of problems such as lymphoedema. I
Post not marked as liked
Relaxation: luxury or necessity?
Relaxation: just the mention of it makes some people YAWN with boredom and others go a bit crazy and run for the hills. And, by golly, it’s particularly hard for us in the 21st century. How many times
| 5,717 |
The older we get as parents, the more free we are to make decisions about what we want for ourselves. Our children have grown and aren't as needy, and we can kind of start to rebuild ourselves into people again.
We can make decisions about our appearances and our clothing: we are no longer limited to tops that allow access to breasts in seconds for on demand nursing. We are able to choose the foods we want to eat with only ourselves as a concern rather than avoiding the Three Bean Salad because you'll be dealing with little one's colic from your Beano-less breast milk. We can decide how we want to spend our time and will no longer have the automatic response of kids are down! I'm going in for a nap!
We weathered it all, and now, I say congratulations on surviving one of the wildest rides in town: young parenthood. You will be faced with opportunities now that you thought would never show their face again.
I have some suggestions for you; ideas for smart choices while you work your way back to being Healthy, Strong and Attractive...like the days of yore.
Limit Your Snacks: Yes, you'll want to eat everything in sight because now you by yourself or you with someone else can grab a few minutes here and there to actually chew and eat something versus choking on the food you jam down your throat while screaming SIT DOWN and getting up 15 times to refill juice glasses. You can sit and eat: this is a dangerous combination. Be aware.
Altering your Appearance: You will trick yourself into thinking that you can turn back time and go back to being that hot mama once more. Mouth jewelry, pierced navels, some new ink: why not. Well, don't. Not without considering first how things have stretched and pulled and lost resiliency. Do you really want a ring hanging from an already looking-like-it's-a-winking-eye bellybutton? Or risk chipping one of your ever softening osteoporotic teeth as your pierced tongue clangs away during Junior's Parent Teacher Conferences? Just think, all I ask.
Smoking and Drinking: the old college days. The old single days. Sitting at a bar, thinking you look so irresistible with a cigarette hanging just by an ash from your beautiful full lower lip as you drink a sexy drink made with enough booze to light your husband's brand new Charbroil grill you gave him for Father's Day. Don't do it...you won't look sexy and wanton, you'll look tired and haggard and someone walking by will drop a card in your lap inviting you to audition on the Jerry Springer Show.
Losing 25 pounds by next Thursday: May have looked good to do at one time, not so fast not so good this time. You're older...a few pounds round out the edges and fill out the sags. Take it slow, a pound a month. *snort* as if losing a pound a month is even going to happen with your new metabolism...
Thinking you can hit the dance floor like you used to do: Uh uhn. Nuh uh, as a matter of fact. Don't you know that the day you got married is the day your dance moves stayed frozen in time? Forever? Like the way I'm still doing The Cabbage Patch? And my husband does The Running Man, just about beating himself up in the process? Yeah. True. Turn on the radio...see what your body does. I rest my case.
Enjoy your new freedom, my lovely readers, just take it easy. Though we may think it's only been seconds since we left the playing field, we're not what we used to be.
**Am I the only one a little bitty bit worried about Jim Halpert? What's going on with that man? Let me know what you think. My post up today, at Sprocket Ink.
Be in the know, be the clever one, read Sprocket Ink.
By Royal Decree of Alexandra at 1:56 AM
46 comments:
Ms. A Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Amen, I'll second that! AND, we will never be what we once were... ever, ever again!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Tuesday, March 06, 2012
So true: it's never the same.
Delete
Replies
Alison Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Oh I love you Empress, this made me snort. *snort*
I'll file this away for when I emerge from the trenches of young parenthood. Which seems like it's a million years away.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Seems like the day will never come, when you're no longer submerged.
But you will pop up, and then it's important to remember : thought it doesn't feel like time has passed IT HAS.
Delete
Replies
Heather Tuesday, March 06, 2012
I will also add to leave your self-esteem behind because instead of showering you with love like your small children did your older children will instead consistently remind you how "uncool" and "out of touch" you are. And of course how instead of being their everything you are now ruining their life.
And they say everything with all the drama of the youth.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Tuesday, March 06, 2012
You always make me feel so good. Thank you, Heather.
Delete
Replies
Brian Miller Tuesday, March 06, 2012
haha...and after dancing thus, you will now be unable to move for a week....
ReplyDelete
Replies
An Imperfect Momma Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Oh my word hysterical! Thanks will keep this in mind for when I get out of this war zone ;)
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Right now, you feel as if these days of little dudes will never end. But, one day, they do.
And it is overnight. POOF. Just like that.
Delete
Replies
Jen Tuesday, March 06, 2012
The worst part of turning 40 is that your metabolism basically stops. I have to work twice as hard and eat so much less to keep things somewhat stable. It's not fair.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Mark Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Hey, speak for yourself! "I've got the moves like Jagger"!
At least I think I do. Now you got me worried.
Thanks a lot!
m.
ReplyDelete
Replies
tulpen Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Hehehehehe... I won't be 'emerging' anytime soon.
And I always did my best Dancing at Grateful Dead shows... those moves never get old.
ReplyDelete
Replies
erica Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Between this and Heather's comment above, I may think twice about having my own kids....
ReplyDelete
Replies
*smile* Love love love the advice! Now I just need to convince myself that my *ahem* angels, are prepared for me to embrace a bit of freedom! I'm still in a state of shock from... wait for it...sitting down and READING A BOOK IN ONE SITTING! That's right! I got to sit down! :) I'm a little dismayed at the thought of having lost my touch on the dance floor, though... In our heads, My 'Ol Man and I always felt we had a special gift where disco is concerned.... *sigh*
ReplyDelete
Replies
Dana @ Bungalow'56 Tuesday, March 06, 2012
In denial over here. Dancing to the fridge to eat my weight in donuts cuz I can. OK not really, totally lying, I haven't had a donut since 2006. Damn metabolism. You're just a ray of sunshine aren't you? I'm off to find some spanx, and some hair dye, and some Oil of Olay and life will be OK.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Mandy_Fish Tuesday, March 06, 2012
I was reminded of this last summer when I volunteered to play in my agency's basketball tournament. I was an awesome basketball player ... 20 years ago.
Suffice it to say, it was 3 days of basketball tournament hell. I hurt some part of my body each time I played. I crawled home each night a sweaty, broken mess. I work out with a personal trainer, too! But it's not the same as basketball.
Now I'm convinced, basketball is a young person's sport. Plus now I've seen two guys at work on crutches from broken achilles tendons. Yikes!
ReplyDelete
Replies
McKenna Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Have you ever been to Forever 21? One step in the door and I was reminded that I need to head over to Anne Taylor. And also no thongs, not worth the pain.
ReplyDelete
Replies
The Woman Formerly Known As Beautiful Tuesday, March 06, 2012
You've just convinced me to keep the extra 20 lbs. I'm eating Koogle from 1972 thanks to you!!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Wednesday, March 07, 2012
You know, it's been famously said, "ass or face." You can't have both. xo
Delete
Replies
momto8 Tuesday, March 06, 2012
haha this post is actually true.
I understand what you mean and I still have 4 kids at home! but life is a whole lot easier for me...fun really, book clubs, prayer groups, lunch dates, the gym everyday....I'll take 50 any day over 20!! And I don't care if I can't drink like I used to!!
ReplyDelete
Replies
dusty earth mother Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Thanks for the tip about the bar. You know what a party girl I am :-) Funny stuff, E.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Heidi Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Love, love! Especially the smoking and drinking too much bit. Okay, and the piercing portion. It is all so, so true.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Andrea Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Plus, I am not sure any dance move I could conjure would sync up with whatever Katy Perry is singing so loudly and squeakily about.
I like to eat chocolate when I am home alone because I don't have to share. It's actually the hubs that I have to hide that from, and I think he might be staying.
What ARE we to do then Alexandra? Just sit around googling things?
ReplyDelete
Replies
Andrea Tuesday, March 06, 2012
I have a feeling that any dance moves I could muster would be out of sync with whatever Katy Perry is squawking about.
I like to eat chocolate when i am home alone so I don't have to share, but the husband is a bigger intruder there, and I think he is staying.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Chantel Tuesday, March 06, 2012
"Do you really want a ring hanging from an already looking-like-it's-a-winking-eye bellybutton?" Ha! Can I tell you that one of the greatest bitches of my life had a "ring of dolphins" around her ever-so-often-naked navel in college.
She got pregnant with twins. This comforts me.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Comforting, isn't it? Happens to the bitchiest of the lot. NO ONE is safe.
Delete
Replies
Kimberly Tuesday, March 06, 2012
I am dying laughing.
Man do I ever kick myself in the ass for the cleverly spot that I chose to have inked...my stomach by my hipbone.
Do you know what a butterfly looks like pregnant?
I'll tell you...
It looks like the roadrunner was smashed flat by an anvil and then stretched like a rubber band.
Do you know what it looks like after pregnancy?
I don't even want to know what it will look like at 80...Lord the nurses will probably think I have the plague or something.
ReplyDelete
Replies
K A B L O O E Y Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Amen, sister. Although my dance moves stopped progressing in 1985. I still look like I'm expecting my shoes to stick to the grain-punch-covered frat house floor. Loved the Jerry Springer card line best of all.
ReplyDelete
Replies
erin margolin Tuesday, March 06, 2012
I can't wait for the day when I can stop yelling SIT down and actually eat something myself without having to jam it down my throat in 3 seconds, or in the car on the way to school.
laughing because I know all this will be true enough before i can turn around...
ReplyDelete
Replies
Gina Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Hysterical. I'm a rather new empty nester and lots has changed. No hot mama anymore and things don't move quite like they used to...like the dance moves and the scale. Hate my metabolism and you basically have to starve to drop anyweighht. I love to eat soooo. One thing that has changed for sure is something my friends and I say often because our kids are away at school is "little kids, little problems...big kids, big problems".
ReplyDelete
Replies
Lance Wednesday, March 07, 2012
We are of like mind. I wrote something similar about dropping my music snobbery for my 3 daughters. There is nothing wrong with being older, a parent, and well, being more boring. Embrace it. Love your pouse. Laugh at your ridiculousness. Eat another brownie/cookie/m&m.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Tonya Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Also, do NOT dance on tables! The waiters at Denny's do NOT like that and they will ask you to leave...or, er, so I've heard...
ReplyDelete
Replies
Julie Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Our TEETH get osteoperotic, too?
Do you think Jim Halpert would still like me if I had a chipped incisor?
I love him.
So I'm off to read what you have to say at Sprocket...
And hopefully I won't break a hip on my way.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Yes.They do.
Also, be sure to rinse after acidic fruits.
Delete
Replies
Suniverse Wednesday, March 07, 2012
The husband and I have both been considering starting smoking again. It was so awesome and looks so cool. [It just does. Don't give me that PSA crap. SMOKING LOOKS COOL.]
I guess we won't. Thanks for the advice.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Alexandra Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Wrote that with specifically you in mind, my Suni.
Delete
Replies
Unknown Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Oh, I REALLY love how you encourage us to keep a few pounds on to round out the sags. Ha! I don't feel bad for having that extra donut hole this morning! You are awesome, you know that?
ReplyDelete
Replies
Ms. G Wednesday, March 07, 2012
"Well, don't" Hee hee, Let me add my AMEN to the congregation!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Maureen | Tatter Scoops Wednesday, March 07, 2012
ReplyDelete
Replies
mypixieblog Wednesday, March 07, 2012
I don't get it. What's wrong with the. Cabbage patch and the running man? What!? Not cool anymore!? I wish someone had told me :)
Do you have some choice words about my Jim Gallery?? I love him! Off to read now.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Marta Wednesday, March 07, 2012
What super exciting things I have to look forward to. Maybe I'll just keep having more babies to delay this :-)
ReplyDelete
Replies
Unknown Thursday, March 08, 2012
this is all, sadly, such good advice. my husband and i are always racing through dinner even we're alone in a grown-up restaurant. dang kids!
ReplyDelete
Replies
Unknown Thursday, March 08, 2012
ReplyDelete
Replies
Only You Friday, March 09, 2012
Haha - this is exactly the phase I have recently entered, now with a child in school for many hours a day. You are right about the body. I've kept my bikinis from my honeymoon but now I wear them under swimming shorts that come down to my knees. And the eating! My son recently reprimanded me for buying a family pack of Doritos only for my own consumption. ("Mommy - this says FAMILY SIZE - not PERSONAL SIZE.")
Accepting that we are no longer the babes we once were...I thought I only needed to deal with that after birth but you are right - it's a life time transition and mental adjustment! ;-)
ReplyDelete
Replies
Anna at www.mylifeandkids.com Tuesday, March 13, 2012
This is awesome! Just the idea that I'll survive young parenthood is exciting... :)
Thanks for linking up to finding the funny! I'm pinning this on our Finding the Funny Pinterest board.
ReplyDelete
Replies
Ali - My Suitcase Full of Tricks Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Uggg. Totally with you. Especially on the dance moves thing. I never actually had any real "moves", kinda like a classic white button down - they are timeless. But my husband is doing the same move he perfected in the Vanilla Ice days. I'm sick of it. Good thing we never get invited anywhere anymore.
| 15,937 |
It was already underway before the iPad was launched, but I’m sure the iPad hasn’t helped. Looks to me like the whole thing is a victim of this massive recession we’re still finding ourselves in. And the truth is, there are more things to spend our money on.
These are retail notebook sales, so presumably they reflect consumer and perhaps small business more than business in general, which is also telling. I suspect there aren’t too many large enterprises financing iPad purchases yet. Best Buy’s CEO is being widely quoted as saying their internal numbers show iPad is cutting into sales by up to 50%. Let’s not forget the Kindle either. Love the new Kindle vs iPad videos, they’re funny.
Here is the essential buyer decision:
– Times are tough, money is tight.
– Do you really want to upgrade the notebook you probably already own?
– Or, would you rather soldier on with that notebook at least another year and get the new hotness in town, an iPad?
Seems like not much of a decision to me. I have always been more of a desktop guy, and I get more that way as I get older. The reason is power and a big display. I’m running some pretty hefty tools for things like CNC machine work (CAD/CAM). Very graphics intensive. And I want a lot of pixels and the computing grunt to move them around fast. So I like my desktop, especially since it was upgraded not that long ago with a new Mobo, latest multicore cpu, graphics, and solid state disk (boots in about 12 seconds).
I guess if there is good news, it is that I suspect people are soldiering on and not just discarding notebooks in favor of iPads. At some point, they will want to upgrade, but not until they have their ‘pad (whichever brand it may be).
I have a laptop too. It’s more like 3 years old and is squarely in the category of “good enough” and not “great”. And I have an iPad. One thing I noticed is that while I can’t replace the notebook with the iPad, I sure can use it in place of the notebook pretty often. There are certain times when I am going to a meeting and I know I want to run software that won’t run on the iPad. That happens pretty seldom, and hopefully even less seldom now that I can run some Flash on iPad.
The primary thing the iPad isn’t very good at (so not very good my barely good enough notebook has it beat) is content creation. Whether for lack of the apps, the touch keyboard, the screen form factor, or whatever, it just doesn’t work for content creation. I’ve tried it, and no joy. But, how often do I need mobile content creation? It turns out, not very often. Unless I’m travelling (where I take the notebook in my checked luggage and carry on the iPad), I don’t need it at all.
Interesting to think about what it would take for the iPad to become a really slick content creation device. I’m envisioning a clamshell carrying case with integrated keyboard. I have Apple’s keyboard, and it is very flawed. For starters, it wants to run in portrait instead of landscape mode. You can get around that with a cable, but then the shape is awkward for compact carrying. I want a keyboard like Apple’s, built into a clamshell. Open the clamshell and you can set up the iPad in an easel-like configuration with landscape screen view. The keyboard should fold down. Make it easy to snap the iPad in and out, because I view this case as being a some time thing for when I need to travel and create content. Add the right content creation software (not convinced they are there yet, BTW), and it would be quite a handy gadget.
Of course that’s all add-on BS. The ultimate killer notebook would look like a regular notebook except that the screen would pop off to become a ‘pad. Imagine if Apple built one of those. Now that would be the new hotness!
Of course BestBuy now wants to retract their statement. I’m sure the notebook manufacturers who are their partners wanted to know, “WTF?”
Reddit
This entry was posted on September 17, 2010 at 3:39 pm and is filed under mobile. Tagged: mobile. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
Joe Cincotta said
September 18, 2010 at 10:28 am
Nice post (as usual). Kind of made me giggle though, I think you will find that what you’re after was called the TC1100 and it was made by HP. There are bigger issues other than input device against using an iPad for content creation – Trying to use Omnigraffle on iPad made me want to cry, for all the brilliance Apple has put in to hiding the fact that you are using a glorified calculator CPU, its moments like that you realize it really is the case…
Log in to Reply
smoothspan said
September 20, 2010 at 3:19 pm
Yeah, I hear you Joe. It’s not quite all there. But it sure would be nice if it would do a little better than it does. I’ll settle for a decent keyboard since some amount of my content creation (like this blog) happens with an online app anyway.
| 5,034 |
Veolia, the French utility group, has reportedly agreed to sell Suez’s UK waste business to Macquarie, a private equity group based in Australia, for an amount worth €2.4 billion ($2.4 billion) to tackle competition concerns.
Veolia, which approved a €13 billion ($13.3 billion) buyout of its smaller French competitor last year following a protracted buyout battle, has been selling parts of Suez in various overseas markets to alleviate antitrust concerns.
Estelle Brachlianoff, CEO of Veolia, stated that following this deal, Veolia will continue being a prominent participant in the UK's waste industry and, more extensively, in the market for environmental services throughout the region.
The agreement, the final step in the culmination of Veolia's acquisition of Suez, came in consequence of the concerns the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) raised after the merger of two of the biggest waste and water organizations in the world.
Brachlianoff stated that she was quite convinced that Veolia would receive regulatory permission for the acquisition but added that the company still needed to sell a modest asset in the UK's industrial water market.
Suez's overseas operations have either been incorporated by Veolia or sold off under the provisions of the €13 billion takeover last year. Suez is controlled by investors such as the French infrastructure group Meridiam and US-based Global Infrastructure Partners.
Veolia and Suez previously had to sell off a number of their operations to resolve antitrust problems with 17 more competition regulators, including Brussels.
Veolia stated that after reaching the disposal of the solutions with the European Commission and signing the deal with Macquarie Asset Management, almost all the antitrust buyouts would take less than a year post the takeover of Suez.
All the disposals made in the framework of the antitrust approvals amount higher than the purchase price of Suez. The value of these UK holdings reflects both the initial price as well as the synergies projected from the merger.
Veolia's debt leverage is expected to decrease dramatically through the disposals, which totaled €3.4 billion ($3.4 billion).
Source credit: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/aug/08/veolia-to-sell-suez-uk-macquarie-cma
You may also like
Google faces accusations of breaching ePrivacy directives in France
Date: August 09, 2022
Indian e-commerce companies on a hiring spree ahead of shopping season
Date: August 09, 2022
Inflation expectations in Korea register 1st dip in 8 months in August
Date: August 09, 2022
About the author
Omkar Patwardhan started his professional career in the hospitality industry. Having nurtured a deep-sated passion for words however, he found his way into content writing and now pens down articles for numerous websites, including News Origins, spanning the sectors of business, finance, and technology.
Veolia agrees to sell Suez’s UK waste unit for $2.4B to Macquarie
At NewsOrigins, we offer the latest news, prices, breakthroughs, and analysis with emphasis on expert opinion and commentary from the Finance and Stock community.
| 3,260 |
police car lights at night in city with selective focus and blurry car traffic in the bokeh Photo credit Getty Images
NEWPORT BEACH (CNS) - A carjacking suspect barricaded himself in a home in Newport Beach today.
Sometime after 4 p.m., the carjacking occurred at Fashion Island, police said.
The suspect ``ditched'' the car and grabbed another vehicle and led police in a short pursuit before abandoning it and running away in the Dover Shore area and barricading himself in a home, police said.
| 517 |
The opportunity and belief are there to build communities of hope and justice in Australia, says migrant advocate and award-winning Griffith alumnus Gail Ker OAM
Business student named Cultural Diversity Ambassador
Department of Tourism, Sport and Hotel Management
Published September 10, 2014 AuthorStephen O'Grady
A Griffith business student has been named Queensland Young Cultural Diversity Ambassador for 2014. Paul Joseph, who is studying International Tourism and Hotel Management, says the Premier’s Cultural Diversity Award has added further momentum to his aims in life. An active volunteer with the Queensland African Communities Council, Paul is a youth leader and advocate […]
| 689 |
Um, like, wow. I've been on pins and needles since the second season of Skins wrapped up last month here in the US.
After all, the new season of Skins would feature not only a new beginning but largely an entirely new cast, save for Kaya Scodelario's Effy Stonem and Lisa Backwell's Pandora. Would the new gang of Bristol teens grab my attention as much as Tony, Michelle, Sid, Cassie, and the others had done over the course of the first two seasons? Would it feel like an entirely different new series?
The answer to both, luckily, is an resounding yes.
Last week, I watched the superb third season premiere of Skins (which launches in the UK on January 22nd) and I'm thrilled to report that this new season is not only a great jumping on point for people who haven't been watching the last two seasons (though shame on you if you haven't caught this smart and slick series) but it also effortlessly introduces a new batch of teens who are a mix of cocky, confident, brooding, sullen, bitchy, sensitive, promiscuous, keen, lonely, dangerous, and provocative, sometimes all at the same time.
So what else can you expect to find when Skins kicks off its third season? Let's discuss.
Unlike the first season, where we saw a group of kids already tightly bound together by the bonds of friendship, Season Three begins with a mostly disparate group, some of whom already know one another, as they begin their first day at Roundview College.
And what a day it is. From the very opening scene, a gorgeous tracking shot in which soulful Freddie (Luke Pasqualino) sails down the streets of Bristol on his skateboard, narrowly evading capture by a bike cop and multiple obstacles, one can't help shake the feeling that this season of Skins hits its target precisely from the get-go. What follows is a scene that blends the series' trademark combination of pitch black drama and off-kilter humor, as Freddie meets up with his friends Cook (Jack O'Connell), a cocksure lad whose, uh, well-placed tattoo becomes the lynchpin in a painfully hilarious and raucous scene at the college, and JJ (Ollie Barberi), a socially awkward (though intellectually gifted) prankster with a penchant for slight-of-hand, for some beers and spliff before class.
This being Skins, this troika of likable lads had to be broken up sooner or later... and applying pressure (and one hell of a temptation) to the group is one Effy Stonem, who--in true Effy fashion--memorably arrives at the scene. Her introduction to the boys is bound to be the subject of much discussion, coming as it does on the heels of a car accident, as Effy slinks away in the manner of a true femme fatale.
As in previous seasons, there's a sweeping cast whom we're likely to get to know much better throughout the next batch of episodes. Unlike previous seasons of the series, the third season premiere doesn't focus on any one character in particularly but gives equal weight to all of the new characters, from the aforementioned Cook, Freddie, and JJ to the always-enigmatic Effy and clueless Pandora (who, not atypically, introduces herself as "Hi, I'm Pandora! I'm useless!").
We also meet twins Katie (Megan Prescott), a socially-motivated man-eater who has always had a boyfriend since she was seven (and is currently dating a star footballer), and Emily (Kathryn Prescott), who is the opposite of her twin sister: quiet, shy, and introspective. Like a shark to blood, Effy immediately senses the tension between the twins and its root cause; it's likely something that our Effy will seek to use to her advantage later on, especially as she and Katie will either wind up BFFs or bitter social rivals.
Meanwhile, Katie and Emily seem to be mortal enemies with the brash, outspoken Naomi Campbell (Lily Loveless). (And, yes, her name is Naomi Campbell.) While Emily and Naomi were once close, there's the little matter of a pre-Roundview College kiss between the two of them that seems to be the source of conflict between them. Katie claims that Naomi pounced on her sister while Naomi claims that Katie is spreading lies. Hmmm... Just which of them is telling the truth? And how does Emily actually feel about Naomi?
I don't want to give away too many details of this fantastic season opener, but I will say that before the hour is over, look for two characters to engage in sex on the Roundview premises following what must be the very best tour of verboten behaviors ever seen on the series.
Meanwhile, JJ tries to charm Pixie, a deaf student, with an elaborate magic trick and Cook bares the weight of her disgust, a teacher loses her mind in a series of increasingly escalating torments, Effy measures up all of the new players, and the friendship between Freddie, Cook, and JJ takes a turn for the worse.
Also keep your eyes open for a poignantly rendered shout-out to Sid. While the writers didn't need to make us nostalgic for the old cast, the brief scene at Roundview perfectly encapsulates the presence of Sid and the others while also distinctly establishing that this is a new beginning for the series.
And, let's face facts, it is a new beginning. The producers took a huge risk by jettisoning the much loved cast and bringing in a new troupe of fresh-faced teens to carry the weight of the series. Judging from the sensational first episode of Season Three, I think it's a gambit that has paid off beautifully. I'm already completely captivated by this new gang of teenage misfits and itching to find out what will happen to them next.
As this is Skins, a series as groundbreaking as it is whiplash-inducingly unpredictable, I have no worries that, like JJ, whatever the writers have up their sleeves, we won't see it coming from a mile away... and, despite the new faces in the cast, that fact definitely hasn't changed.
Season Three of Skins launches on January 22nd in the United Kingdom on E4 and this spring in the US on BBC America. Be sure to come back tomorrow for an interview with Skins co-creator/writer Jamie Brittain.
Other Apps
Other Apps
Comments
Anonymous said…
I'm thrilled to hear that you liked the new cast. I was pretty confident that the show would continue its journey of greatness but it's reassuring to hear it from someone who has seen the first ep of the new season. I can't wait!!
Anonymous said…
Very relieved to hear that you liked it. You've not steered me wrong in the past and I was worried when you said that they were getting rid of Tony and everyone. Glad to see that the writers have created some new kids for us to get invested in and I can't wait for BBCA to launch S3!
Anonymous said…
The new season lacks the sincerity and depth of the first two. Perhaps with more episodes the characters will begin to develop more dimensions but right now I am missing the old ones.
Anonymous said…
Sorry if this seems blunt, but your review couldn't be more shallow. The third season is terrible beyond belief and appears to have been written by 14 year olds, thinking that is what 17 year olds do. It lacks the depth, truth, and humanity of the first and to a certain extent, second seasons, replaced instead with fart jokes and gratuitous sex scenes that go on far too long in lieu of an actual coherent plot. Plus there is not one likeable character...
Anonymous said…
I have to agree with Tommy. Bullocks I wanted this new season to captivate me like seasons past. The first episode didn't give me the warm feelings of the old gang but hopefully the story will pick up in the following episodes but for now i'm utterly dissatisfied.
I completely agree with Tommy.
This season is absolutely painful to watch.
Not just because it's completely cliche and unoriginal, but because they pretty much ruined what started out as one of the best shows ever.
It's not even in the same ballpark as the first two seasons.
Anonymous said…
i agree with tommy sadly
this season better turn around quick,
fart jokes, common man!!!!!
what the hell that is what family guy is for,
stick to the old material i dont think any one will get sick of that,
they already recasted the whole show for pete sake,
p.s
i efing hate that stupid jj magician loser who is friends with a cool guy and a pot smoking bad boy
Popular posts from this blog
Katie Lee Packs Her Knives: Breaking News from Bravo's "Top Chef"
June 20, 2006
The android has left the building. Or the test kitchen, anyway. Top Chef 's robotic host Katie Lee Joel, the veritable "Uptown Girl" herself (pictured at left), will NOT be sticking around for a second course of Bravo's hit culinary competition. According to a well-placed insider, Joel will "not be returning" to the show. No reason for her departure was cited. Unfortunately, the perfect replacement for Joel, Top Chef judge and professional chef Tom Colicchio, will not be taking over as the reality series' host (damn!). Instead, the show's producers are currently scouring to find a replacement for Joel. Top Chef 's second season was announced by Bravo last month, but no return date has been set for the series' ten-episode sophomore season. Stay tuned as this story develops. UPDATE (6/27): Bravo has now confirmed the above story .
Other Apps
21 comments
Continue reading full story...
BuzzFeed: "The Good Wife Is The Best Show On Television Right Now"
October 13, 2014
The CBS legal drama, now in its sixth season, continually shakes up its narrative foundations and proves itself fearless in the process. Spoilers ahead, if you’re not up to date on the show. At BuzzFeed, you can read my latest feature, " The Good Wife Is The Best Show On Television Right Now," in which I praise CBS' The Good Wife and, well, hail it as the best show currently on television. (Yes, you read that right.) There is no need to be delicate here: If you’re not watching The Good Wife, you are missing out on the best show on television. I won’t qualify that statement in the least — I’m not talking about the best show currently airing on broadcast television or outside of cable or on premium or however you want to sandbox this remarkable show. No, the legal drama is the best thing currently airing on any channel on television. That The Good Wife is this perfect in its sixth season is reason to truly celebrate. Few shows embrace complexity and risk-taking in t
Other Apps
Continue reading full story...
February 02, 2015
HBO's stranger-than-fiction true crime documentary The Jinx — about real estate heir Robert Durst — brings the chills and thrills missing since Serial wrapped up its first season. Serial obsessives: HBO's latest documentary series is exactly what you've been waiting for. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst , like Sarah Koenig's beloved podcast, sifts through old documents, finds new leads from fresh interviews, and seeks to determine just what happened on a fateful day in which the most foul murder was committed. And, also like Serial before it, The Jinx may also hold no ultimate answer to innocence or guilt. But that seems almost beside the point; such investigations often remain murky and unclear, and guilt is not so easy a thing to be judged. Instead, this upcoming six-part tantalizing murder mystery, from director Andrew Jarecki ( Capturing the Friedmans ), is a gripping true crime story that unfolds with all of the speed of a page-turner; it
| 11,796 |
Mae Carol Johnson grew up in the 1930s in Columbus, Ga., a beloved child of the segregated South with three strikes against her odds for a brighter future: She was poor, black and female.
For some reason _ possibly the example set by an adoring grandmother, who was a midwife and prayer warrior of absolute faith _ Mae never worried much about odds. She finished college, married a young soldier and in 1954, they moved to California’s Monterey Peninsula, where Mae took the only job she could find, working in the laundry at Fort Ord.
Ten years later, she was a divorced single mother with six little children to raise alone.
“I don’t know how she did it,” said her son, Ron Johnson. “She worked all day, went to school at night and took care of us kids. Somehow, she got it all done.”
Mae earned a teaching credential and began her career in education as a substitute teacher, then worked her way up the ranks as a counselor and administrator to become the first female principal at Monterey High School.
My late husband was then a teacher and coach at the school. Usually a man of few words, he had plenty to say about the new principal _ all good. When I met her, I saw why.
She told me she adored him because every day when she left school, his car was the only one still in the parking lot. I said he adored her because of her smile. She gave that smile to me with one of her hugs (when Mae hugged you, you knew you’d been hugged) and with that, we were “best” friends.
Far more than my husband’s boss or my children’s high school principal, Mae would be, for me, a role model, a fount of wisdom, laughter and grace.
We spent very little time together. I was busy with my life. And she was busy changing the world. Some people are like that. You don’t need a lot of their time. You just need to watch them. I watched her from afar and loved her all the more.
When my husband died of cancer, Mae called in tears to say her heart was broken. She said other things, too, fine words that helped to heal me.
The last time I saw her was a few years ago. We met for lunch with another friend, ate fried calamari and laughed. She promised to try to visit me and my new husband at our home in Las Vegas. And in return, she made me promise to finish a book I’d been stalling on.
That is who she was. She set a high bar, demanded your best and somehow tricked you into believing you could do it.
News of her death last month brought to mind the words she had said after my husband died: “Our loss is Heaven’s gain.”
At her memorial service, I sat listening with hundreds of others _ family, friends, former teachers and students _ as a series of dignitaries recounted her many accomplishments.
I wish you could’ve heard them. Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta described Mae’s story as an example of the American dream, and said the true measure of her life was in the difference that she made.
Others spoke of her dignity, her “toughness,” her unfailing sense of peace. But speakers and listeners alike, with “amens” and nodding smiles and bursts of applause, testified to her love.
Then her son Ron said this: His mother loved all people, but she had a gift for making ordinary people feel important.
I can testify to that. I’m one of the ordinary people she made feel important. We didn’t know each other well, Mae and I, but we were surely “best” friends.
In her 82 years, Mae Johnson touched countless lives. She made a difference. That’s the legacy of a good life and a gifted teacher. I suspect we were all blessed to be her “best” friends.
No matter. She liked me best.
Comments
Gina Herren-Pope says
March 25, 2015 at 7:54 pm
Beautifully written Mrs. Randall! Thank you. .Mrs. Johnson once told me to “make goals (and live) with expectancy,” and you’re article shows she lived as she advised…she was an amazing woman, as are you.
March 24, 2015 at 4:46 pm
It would have nice to have seen you there at the memorial service. I remember when I was on a committee to interview to pick a principal for what then was King Middle School…. maybe then King Junior High? I was the only one who voted for Mae to be the principal. I think that the person who got hired only lasted one year. Mae was put in there to take his place.
Bruce Stambaugh says
March 20, 2015 at 8:08 am
And now, thanks to you, dear Sharon, we don’t have to wish that we knew Mae. You have just introduced her to us in a most gracious, loving fashion, just the way a best friend would.
Linda Hill says
March 18, 2015 at 6:23 pm
you did it again, brought me to tears. Keep it up. Tears are to the soul what soap is to the body. I guess my soul wax a bit dirty today.
Andy Bedell says
March 17, 2015 at 8:24 pm
You really spoke to Mae’s impact on people and character, Sharon. I first met her when she served as an assistant principal in the early 1970’s. She was a courageous administrator who had tremendous clarity when it came to impacting people’s lives. She was also very civil, at all times a lady. She was a person whose actions I always admired during my life as a teacher, coach, and later, an administrator. Most importantly, she always gave young people a chance. Thank you for honoring her.
shashi says
March 17, 2015 at 3:33 pm
God bless this great teacher and Sharon who knew her and now we all know her too because Sharon knows how to touch so many more people by her beautiful columns . Lot of love .
Antoinette Cox says
March 17, 2015 at 1:22 pm
What a lovely tribute for a lovely lady who touched so many lives with her goodness and understanding.
Δ
Award-winning writer Sharon Randall is a syndicated columnist whose weekly column has been distributed to some 400 newspapers and an estimated 6 million readers nationwide. Read More…
| 5,894 |
Godzilla is an American science fiction monster film featuring the Japanese film monster of the same name in a reboot of the Godzilla film franchise.
The film retells the origin of Godzilla in contemporary times as a "terrifying force of nature" in a style faithful to the Toho series of Godzilla films. The film is directed by British filmmaker Gareth Edwards and written by Max Borenstein
The film is a co-production of Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures worldwide, except for Japan where it will be distributed by Toho.
It is the second Godzilla film to be fully filmed by an American studio, the first having been the 1998 film of the same name. The film was released on May 16, 2014 in 2D and 3D.
Bryan Cranston as Joseph "Joe" Brody
A nuclear physicist who worked at Janjira nuclear plant and Ford's father.
Joe's wife, who also worked at Janjira nuclear plant.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson as
Lieutenant Ford Brody
Joe and Sandra's son.
Ford's wife.
Ken Watanabe as Ichiro Serizawa
David Strathairn as Adm. Stenz
Sally Hawkins as Vivienne Graham
Patrick Sabongui as
Master Sergeant Marcus Waltz
Victor Rasuk as Major Tre Morales
Richard T. Jones as "The Colonel"
Jared Keeso as Jump Master
Al Sapienza as Huddleston
Brian Markinson as Whalen
CJ Adams as young Ford Brody
Carson Bolde as Sam Brody
Jake Cunanan as Akio
Warren Takeuchi as Akio's father
Yuki Morita as Akio's mother
Opening credit sequence rolls over archive footage of nuclear tests in the 1950s. Credit information is redacted with strips of white tape over cut this footage.
Nuclear bombs are going off, military personnel slipping on protective eye-wear, ominous Godzilla spines briefly emerge from beneath the waves.
They are trying to kill Godzilla. It doesn't work and he screams his disapproval.
Cut to 1999: A Monarch helicopter (we saw their name in the credit sequence) glides over a huge excavation in the Philippines. It looks like a mine. Thousands of workers labor in the massive trenches.
As the 'copter lands, a Japanese researcher named Ichiro Serizawa (Ken Watanabe) and his British assistant Vivienne Graham (Sally Hawkins) emerge. An American supervisor informs them that they had readings that suggested a uranium find. They loaded heavy equipment onto the site, only for it to collapse into an underground cavern.
They head there to find the skeletonized carcass of a giant creature. It fills the cave as far as the eye can see. Hanging from the cave ceiling appears to be a cocoon of some type, as well as one that looks like it has hatched. Going further into the cave it looks as though some enormous thing has crawled from the cave and torn a wound across the landscape as it headed toward the sea.
In Japan, Joe Brody (Bryan Cranston) is on the phone frantically concerned about seismic activity. He thinks the nuclear power plant he works for should be shut down as a precaution. As an American, he is concerned about ruffling Japanese feathers, but insists on a meeting to air his concerns. His somewhat shy son has made a sign for him. It's his birthday.
His wife, Sandy (Juliette Binoche), hustles the son off to school. She reminds Brody that it's his birthday and his son, Ford, had prepared a surprise. They head off to the plant and he tells the wife to head down into the reactor zone to make sure nothing has been damaged in the shaking.
Once at the plant, Brody makes his case. His superiors think the activity is just aftershocks from the recent Philippines "earthquakes;" Brody says 'no'. Suddenly, a major tremor hits the plant. Brody yells: "We need to shut down now!" Before the process can even begin, another shaker rocks the plant triggering red lights all over the place. The reactor has been breached and Brody's wife is down there.
Brody races downstairs, demanding that the protective shield door be kept on manual override so he can save his wife. Sandy and her team run full tilt trying to stay ahead of the cloud that will doom them. They are making good time until a teammate stumbles and Sandy stops to assist him. The cloud is right behind them.
Meanwhile, Brody has arrived at the door and confirmed that he has control. Upstairs is freaking out. He gets a walkie talkie message that Sandy is done for. Brody is overcome with emotion, literally shaking at the prospect of losing her. She tells him that he needs to shut the door to save the city.
He waits until the last possible moment then seals the door and their fates. But there's one more cruel twist of the knife. Literally, seconds after the door has been sealed Sandy appears with several of her team. Brody weeps as he watches his wife being bathed in the toxic radioactive mist.
At his school, little Ford Brody (CJ Adams) observes the plant's cooling towers collapse. He knows that his parents work there. All his classmates flee outside while watches his entire life collapse into ruin.
Current Day: The adult Lt. Ford Brody (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) is returning home after 14 months at sea in the US Navy to his wife Elle (Elizabeth Olsen) and their young son Sam (Carson Bolde).
There's a sweet 'Welcome Home' scene and Ford prepares for some long overdue mommy/daddy time when the phone rings.
Ford learns from someone on the other line that his estranged father, Joe Brody, has been arrested in Japan for trespassing and is being held. Ford has to go get him. Looks like Daddy has to break a promise to his son to "be there in the morning."
In Tokyo, Japan, Ford is obviously a little disgusted at having to bail out his dad. Joe suffered a nervous breakdown after the accident and their relationship is clearly strained. Joe's small apartment looks like a conspiracy theorist's paradise. Pictures and articles paper the walls. Stacks of books and research are everywhere. Clearly dad has gone round the bend.
He's mumbling about echolocation and earthquakes "talking to each other." Out of pity, Ford suggests that his dad come home with him. Joe hasn't seen his grandson in years. He needs a break. Joe, however, is adamant. He needs to know what happened that day. His wife is still buried in the rubble of the "quarantine zone." If he could just get back to his house to retrieve his research.
He doesn't even have a picture of Sandy to cherish. Begrudgingly, Ford decides to help his dad. They head back to the old neighborhood which looks abandoned and overrun. Suddenly, a pack of dogs gambles through the scene. How could that happen in a radioactive wasteland? Joe checks his Geiger counter which shows no radiation at all.
| 6,819 |
Welcome to Fairport on the Erie Canal. Tree lined streets, quiet neighborhoods, specialty shopping, and front porch friendliness offer residents of Fairport the finest in contemporary living.
Utility savings due to village’s independently operated electric company
Renowned Erie Canal towpath biking and walking trails
Calendar full of arts and food festivals, live music and entertainment
Shopping and dining district located on beautiful Erie Canal waterfront
Communities in Fairport
Explore the Neighborhood
Known as the Crown Jewel of the Erie Canal, thousands of residents in Fairport enjoy a quality of life unlike any other community of its size. With picturesque waterfront views, you’ll see boaters, canoes, kayaks, and tour boats, along with an historic towpath for outdoor adventurists. Children have access to one of the premiere public education systems NYS, while adults will find an eclectic mix of professional and commercial offices, specialty retail shops, and locally-owned restaurants—all within walking distance to some of the most desirable Victorian-style family neighborhoods in Monroe County.
| 1,136 |
Whether you want to hit the ground running when you start that fantastic new startup job (sourced through Work in Startups of course). Or just want to recap the basics, this one if for you! In our fantastic startup learning and development programme, we have been discussing how to nail the basics. This week: email! We thought it would be a great thing to share with our lovely blog-readers, as email communication is still at the heart of the way we communicate. […]
This is a wider card with supporting text below as a natural lead-in to additional content.
Continue reading
How to write a good email
Whether you want to hit the ground running when you start that fantastic new startup job (sourced through Work in Startups of course). Or just want to recap the basics, this one if for you!
In our fantastic startup learning and development programme, we have been discussing how to nail the basics. This week: email! We thought it would be a great thing to share with our lovely blog-readers, as email communication is still at the heart of the way we communicate.
Here’s how to make sure the structure and content of your email is perfect:
First, is email the best communication? Would it be better to have a quick chat or meeting? Could it be pinged over via your preferred messaging service? More often than not, an email is an unobtrusive way of getting on someone’s to-do list, but if something’s more urgent or quick then do consider your options.
Subject line – always include a clear but brief subject header in your email so the recipient can prioritise. Don’t be afraid to hit them with a ‘high priority’ flag where appropriate!
Call to action – starting off with a “call to action” (who needs to do what and when) it really helps to cut to the chase. This is particularly helpful when lots of people are cc’d in!
If you work in a UK startup you’re likely to be very busy, so help your colleague out by keeping it punchy! You can always say “see more detail below” and then include below your sign-off if helpful!
This isn’t an invitation to link in everyone at the company! Only send the email to relevant individuals as you can always forward an email later.
The body – keep it concise and relevant. This is not the time for waffle and sharing your life story. General rule of thumb: don’t go over 200 words and ask yourself, “if I read this on a phone, would I have to scroll?”
Sometime you have to expand, we recommend making use of links and attaching documents. We love a bullet point… as you can see… make use of them in your emails!
Tone – we recommend adapting to suit the audience (but always be polite). You can, of course, be a bit less formal with a colleague that you know well!
Remember your salutations, not to get all GCSE English on you but it does matter in a formal context. If you need to brush-up, or perhaps English is not your mother tongue, this is a comprehensive guide to salutation. This is also quite helpful when choosing how to end an email.
Requests – if you need something from your recipient (i.e. a new hire, training, information or support for something) try to cover the following:
What you are asking for
Why you are asking for it
When you need it
What is the benefit
How much it will cost
We see lots of different email addresses at Work in Startups and we have some feedback: candidates we’re looking at you! Make sure your personal jobseeker email address is appropriate and contains a variation on your full name (you can retire that jazzy MSN handle you set up when you were 11!) That way you can start firing out the applications to all the amazing jobs on our site!
We have lots of training at Work in Startups; from basics like email-writing to the bigger issues like mindfulness in the workplace. It is one of the many exciting perks we will be offering our new Sales and Operations Intern! Check out the vacancy if you like the sound of working with us!
| 3,927 |
We don’t talk about cutting up our credit cards, or clipping coupons to save $5.00 on the newest Swiffer mop, or making a budget that forces us to save 10% of our income while we devote the rest to “guilt-free spending”.
I don’t talk about my own personal battle with consumer debt and how much I struggled to get out of it, because come on, I am Mr. Effing Money Mustache. I was cleaning and ironing my five dollar bills and storing them meticulously in a photo album at age ten*, obviously I was never going to go out and spend so much on my credit card that I couldn’t pay it back at the end of the month!
This unique history and perspective allows me to see some things that are not immediately obvious to people who have been raised in the current consumer/debt society. And for all the Beginner Mustachians in attendance today, I would like to share one of these observations:
Your Debt is not something you “work on”.
It is a HUGE, FLAMING EMERGENCY!!!
Let’s illustrate what I mean with a few examples:
One time, way back when I was a university student, I lent a couple thousand dollars to a friend so he could pay his own tuition. The cash came right out of my own bank account, and since I had already paid my own tuition, I had just enough left to cover my groceries and other expenses for the school year. After the loan, that left pretty much nothing, but I assumed that my friend would have the balance paid back within just a few paychecks.
I was therefore surprised when the friend proceeded to live a normal university life of partying and eating out, even during the delayed repayment process.
Everything worked out fine in the end and the debt was repaid eventually, since this was an honorable friend. But I still learned something about society’s differing opinions about debt.
On another occasion I was visiting some other friends – a married couple. The guy was showing me his new TV and video game system. As we battled on the Nintendo Wii, the wife came home from working at the part-time second job she had boldly taken to accelerate the paydown of some old personal debts.
On the way home from work, she had picked up a bottle of wine and purchased a DVD containing some episodes of a popular TV show.
This may sound like a normal Friday night to most people, but note that the purchasing of expensive beverages, DVDs, and video games was put at a higher priority than paying off the debt.
The girl thought she was taking a second job to pay down debt, but in reality her second job was going towards wine, television shows, and video games.
And finally, nowadays I receive emails from people who are working on developing their own Money Mustaches. They often detail income, spending, and debt situations. Often, there is a category for credit card debt. Yet these budget sketches also include amounts for entertainment, cable TV, and multiple cars.
The final straw was when I ventured out to poke around on some other personal finance sites last week. I found one that had a post from one of the authors, containing a table like this:
Mortgage: $75,000 @ 4.5% interest
Wells Fargo credit card: $17500 @ 18.9% interest (<-we HATE this debt!)
Citibank credit card: $2900 @ 14.5% interest
We’ve really cut down on our dinners out and Brad has even started biking to work once a week to save gas in his 15MPG F-150 truck…
Do you see the glaring problems in these stories? If not, you have not yet developed the appropriate hatred for unnecessary debt. So let me spell it out for you.
The correct response to this sort of debt is,
Go back and imagine this person about one month after they got that first Bank of America credit card. They went out for dinner a few times a week and bought some shoes and a few tanks of gas in that first month, and eventually the bill came in the mail for $1125. They realized that they only had $600 in the bank, but that was OK, since the “minimum payment’ was only $75.
In the absolute worst case, it is at this moment that the emergency bell should sound, for anyone in the world. The response should be:
I just totally blew it and spent more money than I earned!
I need to fix this immediately, so obviously all spending beyond food, and getting to and from work in the cheapest way possible, is now suspended.
No, I don’t need a “budget” to pay back my debt, and I certainly don’t need two more credit cards.
I simply need to do zero extra spending until my debt is corrected.
Logically, it follows that even if you only wake up several credit cards later and realize that you have fucked up, the emergency applies to an even greater degree.
If you borrow even one dollar for anything other than your primary house or a profitable investment, the very next dollar you can get your hands on should go to paying that back.
There will be plenty of time for these things later, and they will feel much better when they are not set against the backdrop of Incorrect Debt Due to Error.
Don’t worry, there is nothing wrong with making errors. They are actually good things, since they help you to learn. But you learn by fixing them, rather than letting them ride.
“Sure Mr. Money Mustache”, some beginners will now say. “Of course you would say that, but I’m still less practiced than you. I still need my Starbucks Lattes and my husband likes TV sports so I can’t cancel cable. Can you please stop punching me in the face and let me adjust my consumption gradually instead of suddenly?”
Even if you are an absolute Beginner Consumer Sucka and your goal is still to consume the maximum amount of luxury products, you are still cheating yourself out of stuff just by running a consumer debt balance.
Every dollar you pay in interest to the credit card company is stealing dollars away that you could be using for more luxury purchases for yourself.
Those dollars are gone forever, and you’ve permanently lowered your ability to consume luxury products, for the rest of your life. Since you need those luxury products so much, you’d better get out of debt quickly so you can afford to buy more, right?
The credit card debts above are eating up over $4000 per year of your after-tax salary just due to interest payments. That’s hundreds of lattes, several pairs of shoes, thousands of miles worth of gasoline for your SUV, and even some massages at the spa and a couple of cross-country flights that you are foregoing every year.
Or, of course, once you start your Money Mustache, the interest savings could also be used to shave decades off of your mandatory working career..
And there is more good news, since this is an Advanced blog:
Your Debts Are Tiny.
I always have a little chuckle when people talk about a $10,000 debt, or even a $70,000 or $200,000 one as if it is insurmountable.
Sure, these sums of money are big when measured against the cost of groceries, and they are not sums of money to be wasted.
But this is an early retirement blog. Here we are learning how to rake together much larger sums of money to allow us to live our lives free from mandatory work. For most of us, that means somewhere between $400,000 and $1.5 million.
Beginners to Mustachianism find these sums unimaginable, but after a few years, the same people find their net worth spreadsheets increasing at over $100,000 per year due to investment returns and reduced spending.
Getting rich really is an exponential process, a concept that is hard to grasp until you realize that your money can work harder than you can. Once this higher level of financial skill is reached, you will realize that the debts of your youth were indeed small potatoes.
How do you get this elusive financial skill? If you’re still in debt, you get it by getting much more bold about wiping it out. Sure, you can do it slowly, just as you can lose 100 pounds by lifting a 5-pound dumbell a few times each day while you sit on the couch and watch Oprah.
But I recommend the more efficient path: put on your walking shoes and start walking as much as you can. Eight hours a day. Go straight to the most healthy and balanced eating regime and never deviate. Stay on it and let the forward progress accelerate your progress each day. Consumer debt and excessive amounts of body fat have a lot in common.
The more vigorous method has multiple exponential benefits: every dollar of debt you pay off creates a compounding snowball of savings that continue for a lifetime. And every dollar you manage not to waste, builds your skill at saving money and learning to spend it more efficiently. These skills stick with you for life as well.
So if you still have a car loan, credit card, department store or even a student loan debt, you should destroy that as a prerequisite to beginning the more relaxed stage of saving for financial independence.
At the later stages, you can start to take it easy, but right now is the time for some hard work. Depending on your life situation, you might decide to go car-free, live with roommates, eat a vegetarian diet, take on extra jobs, delay parenthood, enjoy only local travel, and do any number of other things to get the job done. This stage will be short and effective.
Then I’ll see you at the next stage, which is really where this more advanced blog begins.
* This is actually true
Previous Post: Unlock your Inner Mr. T – by Mastering Metal Next Post: Nearly Free Kids Toys that Keep On Giving
You might also like:
Happiness is the Only Logical Pursuit
Grant April 18, 2012, 6:10 am
No More Harvard Debt is an inspiration! I was hoping you’d feature him sooner or later!
Glad you like NMHD.. I have mentioned him before, plus he stops by here occasionally and I’ve commented on his blog as well – we go way back.
Jedi April 20, 2017, 2:51 pm
Late to the party, but I don’t agree with that assessment. If your answer to “how do I pay down my debt” is “sell your second car, your motorcycle, your roadbike”, then you’re obviously in a better damn spot that 95% of the people out there. It’s akin to ‘just forgo the daily starbucks”, when I brew my own coffee daily.
Drew September 28, 2017, 10:19 am
Jedi, your statement suffers from several logical fallacies (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_fallacies). The standard United States consumer has more than enough fiscal fat to cut to make a huge, immediate impact on outstanding consumer debt. If your situation is different, sorry, but that doesn’t mean that 95% of people are like you.
Baughman April 18, 2012, 6:19 am
I had a similar experience with loaning money to a family member to pay tuition. Since this money management stuff is so ingrained in me, it’s hard for me to realize that other people don’t think like me. When I proceeded to watch my family member pay for trips to amusement parks, restaurants, expensive cell phone plans, unnecessary road trips…it was hard for me. I wanted to punch the family member in the face because my hard earned dollars which were supposed to be financing this “need” of tuition were really just indirectly financing a wasteful lifestyle. 5 years later, the loan remains unpaid, and feelings of frustration remain.
Another good friend/colleague of mine back when I was an engineer was struggling with credit card debt. I wanted so badly to help him out and buy it off, in exchange for a modest interest payment…just to give him a fresh start on life. Finances I think were a big source of depression for him, so it was a big temptation. I tried counselling him instead, but he continued to make extravagant purchases such as $30 giant omlettes which he called a “good deal” because they had 6 eggs (at a true cost of $0.50).
Another story comes to mind. While I was pursuing a masters degree, one of my classmates approached me and said “you know…this credit card debt is really stressing me out and I need to figure a way out of it.” When I found out in the proceeding sentences that he had just bought his wife a new iPad2 (financed by credit card), I had to literally bite my tongue to not laugh out loud at the absurdity of his conundrum.
I learned two important lessons here: 1.) Never loan money to someone who is less frugal than you (which for me is practically nobody) or it will drive you to an insane asylum. More money doesn’t solve money problems….it only augments them! 2.) Some people just don’t get it….and never will despite your best efforts. Some people were not born with the financial gene, and as a result, are doomed to a life of 50 hour work weeks until they turn 90 and die in their cubicle. This actually happened at my last job. People died of old age on the job. It’s also sad when people don’t show up to work because they died over the weekend of old age.
Here’s a rant I compiled to help friends realize the logic between disposable income and debt repayment: http://thebaughfamilypublic.blogspot.com/2011/02/thoughts-on-debt.html
Wow, a $30 OMELETTE? I didn’t know such things existed – you learn something new every day.
Baughman April 18, 2012, 6:51 am
Upon further investigation, it was probably a $22, 12-egg omlette: http://www.bethscafe.com/menu.php?menuCategory=omelettes. Sorry if I lose all credibility due to the misspricing, but you could easily get to $30 with taxes and tip.
I’m 95% sure that he took his girlfriend there for a grand total of $60.
Had to chuckle, as I look over at a banqet order currently on my desk:
Sliced Fresh Seasonal Fruit and Berries (i think they mean not quite ripe canteloupe, honeydew, and bland watermelon with a few blueberries scattered on the tray)
Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaf, and Herbal Tea (that will be sitting in an urn over a flame for an hour before you arrive and have the consistency of tar… and the tea is Lipton and Celestial Seasons teabags)
$19 + 21% service charge + state tax, or $30.74/ person
Julie January 22, 2015, 2:50 pm
If that is at a hotel, I can guarantee you the quality of the food is shit. I know I work as a temp cook in them. It’s a huge mark up for crappy food.
I liked your quote, “More money doesn’t solve money problems….it only augments them!” because it reminds me of one of my mantras. Namely, “If money solves your problem, then it’s not a very big problem.” I think Big Problems are physical and mental illness, trauma, death of a loved one and grief that follows and money doesn’t fix these things.
I agree with you and don’t lend money to family and friends. Also, I only occasionally tend to donate time to an organizations and charities, but not my money because they are much more wasteful than I am.
Emmers April 18, 2012, 8:15 am
I believe this is backed up by research, too — once you hit a certain level, more money doesn’t make you happier.
Or, perhaps, “less miserable” is a better descriptor — money doesn’t buy happiness, but the lack of it buys a hell of a lot of misery!
Blaze May 20, 2014, 11:05 am
True, sort of. At this point we’ve cut our expenses as far as we are able to given the local COL, kids still at home and 2+yrs left on the mortgage. We’re surrently saving about 45%. More money wouldn’t change our daily lives in any way, but it would certainly shorten the time to financial independence. At this point everything is on autopilot, we’ve done the hard work of cutting expenses and reducing what can’t be cut entirely. We save everything we can and now just have to put in the required number of months/years to hit our number$. More income would just increase the savings, and which would make me happy. Does that count as more money making me happier?
The cat lord's wife April 19, 2012, 7:28 am
Sometimes even illness can be solved with enough money. Ask my husband’s cat…
We took him to the vet, to see what is wrong with him. Two days and ~600$ later (it is a very expensive cat, considering he is street-breed), we found the heart problem and got prescription for pills to take for the rest of his (hopefully long) life.
See? Like my mother always says: Problems that could be solved with money, aren’t really problems.
BTW, I never lend money I want to see again to friends I want to see again. If I can give one of these up – no problem.
Emmers April 19, 2012, 10:30 am
“Problems that could be solved with money aren’t really problems.”
:-D
RJ April 26, 2012, 10:52 am
I never lend money to anyone. If there is a relative or friend who really needs it, I give it to them as a gift without any expectation of repayment.
It makes my life much easier …
Ralph December 20, 2015, 6:24 am
here here, I do the same, but only for family. If it comes back, great, if not no prob. But the reason had better be a good one.
brenda from ar November 19, 2012, 9:40 pm
I like your comment about giving time to charities rather than money. You seldom find a person or organization that will be careful with OPM (other people’s money).
Here’s one for the books. A sibling needed money to keep a roof over her family’s heads during the winter, so I made the loan. Later, I learned that half of the money was used for mammary enhancement. Needless to say, the loan was not repaid. I’m not in the loan business anymore.
Kenneth April 18, 2012, 8:24 am
Thanks for the great comments. I’m out about $60,000 to my 4 kids in total, over the years (I’m 62). One has paid me back completely, the other three do NOT have the frugal gene. I’ve made peace with this, it was my fault as much as theirs.
not lending money to people who are “un-frugal” is great advice. It is difficult to do sometimes, probably very difficult with family, but when someone manages to amass more debt than they know how to deal with, and then you ‘help’ by consolidating that debt into a low or no interest amount.. pretty soon those cards are creeping up again, and paying you back is less important than the scary credit people.
Emmers April 18, 2012, 7:11 pm
Really, it’s better to not lend money to family, unless you can afford to do without it ever being paid back. The risk of a rift is too great otherwise.
My parents helped us with our house down payment, but (a) they know we’re good for it, and (b) they won’t go broke if we flake out. You have to have both (a) and (b) for this to be an acceptable proposition; just (a) is not sufficient.
Debbie M April 18, 2012, 12:48 pm
I actually do think there are some cases where loaning money, even to people less frugal than me. For example, when my brother was stuck because he couldn’t afford to pay first and last month’s rent to move closer to his job to a place that was cheaper and wouldn’t require a car, a loan of first and last month’s rent (or to subsidize whatever part he couldn’t afford) could make a difference. (I’m not sure–I didn’t think to offer a loan for that until it was too late.)
But I agree, when my sister asked for money because she was going to get evicted, but it was because she couldn’t afford the rent and had no plans in the future for affording the rent, that’s just throwing money in the trash. She extended the time before eviction by getting money from various other places, but she was still evicted. Now she lives somewhere she can afford.
Lindsey April 18, 2012, 4:02 pm
Loaned my brother $2000 (against my better judgement) five years ago and have yet to see a penny of it, while he continues to live high on the hog. (God, what memory of my grandmother did that come from!?). Loaned a friend $1200 for a mortgage payment, four years ago; have yet to see a penny of it. Lesson learned, and probably cheaper than a lot of life lessons. My blessed husband has never mentioned either mistake once…Now I give money to no one for no reason. Hard-hearted? Yes, but the resentment of watching people not pay their debt to me when they had the funds was eating me up, so now I avoid the problem by not lending anything.
Maxwell C. December 18, 2013, 1:20 pm
I have made it a life policy never to loan money to anyone, for as Polonius counsels Laertes in Shakespeare’s Hamlet:
For loan oft loses both itself and friend,
I figure that if someone can’t get a loan through a bank/credit-union/credit-card/other-company-whose-business-is-making-loans…then he obviously lacks the creditworthiness for me to loan to him.
Britni January 29, 2015, 11:18 am
I can completely relate to you, Mr. Baughman. It’s all the worse when it’s a family member. My parents are constantly fretting about their debt. They have several credit cards, vehicle loans, and a large mortgage. A couple of years ago they refinanced all of their debt into a consolidated mortgage with a lower interest rate. At first, I thought this might be a step in the right direction. But then they kept right on using their credit cards building up new balances in addition to everything that had just been consolidated. They even financed a new tracker ($12k), a new SUV ((20k), and a long-arm sewing machine ($7k)! I try to be a voice of reason, but there is always an excuse. As long as they can make the minimum payment, they don’t mind piling more on.
They are in their late 50’s and still have a long way to go before retirement, assuming they will ever retire. I love them dearly and want to help them. But it would be even more irresponsible for me to halt progress toward my own financial freedom and risk letting their poor choices pull me under too. It’s frustrating. All I can do is watch.
Django November 24, 2015, 4:15 am
I lended a couple of times in the past. One was my best friend who works hard but doesn’t get paid well, and he wanted to buy himself out of an awful car-leasing contract. I gave him a four-digit sum (€, not $) and as he was and still is my best friend and I have known him for 25 years, I never really expected to see a penny of it. It made a friend’s life easier, and I can afford it. Second, I bailed out my sister with 25.000 € – money her husband had – no, not spent, he had “forgotten” to fully pay the house they lived in, and he had “forgotten” to pay the tax man, and so the hungry wolves were at my sister’s heels also. As there was a chance they would break up (I never liked my brother in law), I thought “well if he walks out of her life, I won’t see the money back, but it’s worth it”. Well, they didn’t split up (which is good, on the other hand, as they have a child), which means that I got my money back – because *she* has taken over finances…
Suhaila November 13, 2015, 8:53 am
I can tell you from my own personal experience that they can figure it out, it just may take a long time. While I never borrowed money (I was usually the lender but I always got it back-I’m slightly intimidating apparently) I did rack up tons of debt and had poor spending from, let’s say my mom allowed the spending as a kid, 18-33. But I’m on the road to recovery! I’m not even halfway perfect but I’m going to be cc debt free in 2016 and I only started getting my act together in late May 2015 and I’m working on 35% savings (post tax,401k,and benefits) thereafter. And I hope to make it more the better I get at this new lifestyle!
It can happen, I guess, is what I’m saying. Even to the worst of us!
Giles October 6, 2019, 2:42 pm
“This actually happened at my last job. People died of old age on the job. It’s also sad when people don’t show up to work because they died over the weekend of old age.”
This shouldn’t have, but made me laugh. We all know people who don’t get it. Credit card debt but still buying silly things and then complaining about not making enough money.
jlcollinsnh April 18, 2012, 6:30 am
If your lifestyle matches or, god forbid exceeds, your income you are no more than a gilded slave.
Without F-you Money you are a slave. If you have debt, you are a slave with still stouter shackles.
You weren’t born to be a slave.
Carrying debt is as appealing as being covered with leeches, and has much the same effect. The idea that many, indeed most, people seem to happily cover themselves with debt is so beyond my understanding it is hard to imagine how, let alone why, the downsides would need be explained.
Take out your sharpest knife and start scraping the little blood-suckers off.
The above is from my Manifesto:
beyond that, since I have absolutely no experience with consumer debt, I’ve yet to offer a post on the subject. Been thinking about it but maybe now when the topic comes up I’ll just link to yours here. Nice job!
Patrick April 18, 2012, 6:34 am
Thanks for the punch in the face! For us, it’s just an underwater mortgage, but the freedom of having some equity is a goal. Last year, we had a couple of “emergencies”: a $3,000 transmission for the car and a $3,500 heat pump replacement (needed in the south where we live), and cancelled a vacation and stopped all eating out until we had the money saved up to pay for both. We paid for both on credit, because the URGENT, YOU HAVE TO PAY THIS THE FUCK OFF is more motivating for recouping the expenses than the pansy “oh well, now we should start putting 250/month back into the emergency fund to build it back up” method of laziness. 2 months later and we’d paid off the $6.5k on $5k/month take home.
I loved the comments of family members who offered to “loan” us the money so we could still go on vacation!
And thanks for the shout out to NMHD; I love his site. I actually found your site via his…and was referred to him by none other than…Ramit. Whole fuckin’ circle.
yosnowden April 18, 2012, 4:46 pm
> And thanks for the shout out to NMHD; I love his site. I actually found your site via his…and was referred to him by none other than…Ramit. Whole fuckin’ circle.
Nice post! The point you made about learning fiscal responsibility as a 10 year old child (Wow, you probably already knew this before you acquired your facial hair!) was especially important, MMM. Having this trait allows one to advance much faster than those who don’t learn these lessons early on. We watch our parents spending and saving patterns and think that this is the norm.
Learning this type of restraint also helps in ways other than with finance. We learn not to eat or sleep too much, not to work to much, not to play and party too much and we learn not to feel deprived while we are carefully using the resources we do have.
My dad knew that I had a pile of “unironed” cash in my drawer at 12 (I offered to lend him some of my baby sitting money) and had me open up a checking account. Then we went out and bought my first share of stock, Disney! I was FI at 36 and am really thankful for both of my responsible parents (who have been FI for years)!
Faun April 18, 2012, 6:39 am
The impression I got from the Harvard Guy is that he isn’t planning on continuing his frugal ways now that he’s paid off his debt (which he paid off in large part by liquidating his retirement savings). He’s expressed a huge fondness for “bottle service” at upscale bars and other expensive hobbies.
Not Mustachian by a long shot, IMO. My prediction is that he’ll be back in serious debt in 5 years.
Whoa!! You’re totally wrong on that, and suspect your comment would be pretty insulting to NMHD after all he’s written to the contrary.
First of all, if you search his site for “Bottle Service”, you’ll see that he uses it mainly as an example of a wasteful indulgence. Secondly, he repeatedly states that he LIKES the new frugality – while he may be loosening things up a bit now that the debt is gone, he’s not about to go out and re-purchase the Nissan Murano and the motorbike. Much as I now live in a balance between freewheeling cash spending and still enjoying an efficient lifestyle.
Secondly, transferring the retirement savings to the higher yield of the student debt payoff was only one part of it. Cutting monthly spending by over $3k/month, plus the bit about roommates and selling extra cars, and choosing to save rather than spend his raises and bonuses were much more important – especially when you track the effect of these new habits over several years instead of just seven months.
As for the prediction of returning to serious debt within 5 years.. That’s a wager I’d gladly take the other side of!
The reason I’m attacking your comment like this is that the comment itself runs against the spirit of this blog. When somebody does something worthwhile, you celebrate it and use it as an example for others. To shoot it down without even reading and understanding all the posts is negative Antimustachian Complainypantsing at its purest.
Haha! Thank you, Mustachio Man. I relished every word of your rebuttal. I’ve been student-debt free for almost three weeks now and I’ve achieved a decent cash cushion that would technically permit me to spend more freely, but I can’t. I still can’t bring myself to pay for a dinner date and I can’t bear to leave my flask at home when I head to the bars with friends. I bought some gravel for my yard two weeks ago as part of a zeroscaping redesign that will save me money in the long run, but I’m still suffering from buyer’s remorse. I haven’t yet replaced my shoes that have a hole in them or taken care of other deferred expenses. I continue to track every single one of my expenses and set goals.
My frugal nature has become habit; the lifestyle ingrained.
Thanks, MMM, for the link to my site–traffic is off the hook. I hope everyone’s enjoying it. Best of luck to y’all.
I was a big fan of the Secret Booze Flask in my barhopping days as well. I even made a culture out of it among friends – it was called the “Drink Booster Program” (DBP for short), and part of the challenge was to do high-drama booze pours – boosting your drink in public without being secretive.. while the others might discreetly chant “DBP! DBP!”
But my favorite moment in the program was one evening walking down the boardwalk in Waikiki at sunset, heading to a bar with some friends. Suddenly I reached up and instinctively caught a 12oz mini bottle of vodka which had come flying at me out of nowhere, followed by two others aimed at two nearby friends.
We identified the source of the projectiles – a new inductee to the DBP had taken the initiative to run ahead into one of those ABC variety stores and stock us all up before we got to our destination. “DBP, Boys…let’s go!”.
NIIIIIICE! I am totally feeling that. I did a high pour on Saturday–unscrewed the cap on the flask and poured it into my Sprite from about two and a half feet above the glass. The jaws on a couple of girls nearby dropped. AWESOME.
EarningAndLearning May 11, 2017, 11:36 pm
Ha ha DBP I love that! You are such a great storyteller, the Waikiki incident was brilliantly described!
I drink wine, so it’s a little harder to sneak a bottle of wine into a bar! But I am definitely the initiator among my friends of “pre-party” drinking at my house. I hate drinking “retail” (paying bar mark-ups), so I’d rather the bulk of our Saturday night be a wine & cheese chez moi then a drink or two out on the town. For fun, and frugality. :)
rjack April 18, 2012, 6:44 am
I’m 52 and I’ve never carried credit card debt. The only debt I ever had was for the first couple of cars that I bought and my home. Now I have no debt.
I think I learned most of this Debt Aversion from my parents. They never even had a credit card. They had a Sears and JC Penny store charge cards and that was it. Debt Aversion is one of the greatest gifts my parents ever gave me.
I’ve always been surprised/horrified/disgusted by people that seem to live beyond their means as signified by credit card debt. I just don’t understand how they sleep at night – I know that I couldn’t.
Maybe Mustachians are just wired differently than the average consumer?
P.S. MMM – I never felt the need to iron my money, but I did occasionally accidently leave money in my pocket and launder my money. :)
From your avatar picutre I thought you were late 30’s ! Keep up whatever it is you are doing!
ice April 21, 2012, 12:23 am
I also thought RJack was, like, 28.
JJ April 18, 2012, 6:48 am
* This is actually true.
You’re killing me here stashe. I thought I was the only one!
MoneyOCD April 18, 2012, 7:23 pm
Nope, looks like at least 3 of us LOL
Instead of photo album I used small box that was hand decorated with beads.
Hey, I am a girl after all … Sometimes I still have an urge to clean and iron some dollar bills, please do not tell my husband, he will flip out. LOL
BobTx June 22, 2013, 11:39 pm
Super late to this party (reading through the posts from the beginning), but I thought I should contribute my odd early stash location:
From pre-k to maybe 1st or second grade, I put all the money I earned into the keep of a cardboard castle I made in school (the pre-K lemonade stand money had been somewhere else I don’t remember up until I built the castle in our medieval times unit.in kindergarten).
The odd thing is I forgot about it at some point during grade school after I started a second stash in a wallet that my Granddad gave me.
When I found the castle stash sometime in high school, it wasn’t more than I could earn in a day or two of mowing lawns or construction site work, but I can’t pretend I’m not still proud that I had amassed something over $200 in my castle before maybe 3rd grade.
MMM, I enjoy your blog so much I have to pace myself while reading new posts in order to savour it…
I have friends around me that are waaaay impressed that we pay more than our ‘normal’ required monthly payments on the mortgage. We just bought the house less than a year ago, and we managed to pay down 10% of the mortgage. Nothing spectacular, yet stil a good lump of money. And I keep telling them, if you can’t put capital on the house now with such low interest rates, what are you gonna do when the rates go up? Take another 30 year mortgage? Come on! The point is to own a house, not rent it from the bank…
Now credit card debt… that’s another level. If I ever received a credit card bill I could not pay down, I would go into crazy frugal mode instantly. Probably eat canned goods for a couple of weeks/months, depending on the debt. However, sometimes things come up in a close time frame – car breaks down, property taxes are due, house repair all happening at the same time… That sucks. That’s why there are credit lines – I never used mine since college… Also, a little cash flow flexibility usually does the trick. Anyways, credit card debt, seriously?
Canned goods are SO expensive. ;-)
Cook up the red beans and brown rice from dry stuff in your pressure cooker. Its WAY less expensive than canned beans..
Gerard April 18, 2012, 3:51 pm
What ghyspran said, at least for kidney beans. I once substituted white kidney beans for fava beans in a felafel recipe (which involved grinding soaked raw beans, then frying balls of the mush). Imagine the movie Speed with a porcelain bus…
eva April 19, 2012, 5:58 am
In a pressure cooker, at 15psi, water boils at 121ºC. It’s OK to do them from dry under pressure.
Gerard September 6, 2012, 7:37 am
Cool, I did not know this! Thanks!
Nick April 18, 2012, 7:19 am
Well put, sir. Sometimes I forget that not everyone has the same aversion to debt as my wife and I do. Paying cash for a Master’s degree, saving/investing for the future and paying off extra mortgage principal every month are just way more important to us than driving an expensive car, buying the latest iGadget or going out to eat 5 nights a week. I know MMM preaches to the choir a lot here, but it still feels good to be amongst like-minded company.
YO MMM! Groovy post. The link to ” your money can work harder than you can” needs a http:// or something along those lines.
RiskyStartup.com April 18, 2012, 7:43 am
Sadly, I can tell you that youth moustache can be lost. When I was 10, I was such a voracious saver that my mom and my neighbours would borrow money from me constantly. I only ever wanted cash for gifts, I had jobs since I was 11 (not chores, actual jobs like flier delivery etc)…
Then married life came, and somehow I got sucked into the consumerist society, credit cards etc. Before I knew it, I had more than years worth of salary in credit cards alone, plus car payment etc. Finally, I realized how dumb I was, so before I ever missed a single payment, I went to the “credit consulting” place (what a waste!). Since I realized that will not help me get out of debt in any reasonable time, I went towards bankruptcy. I settled with the companies that loaned me the money by agreeing to pay about 70% of the debt over 5 years (no interest would continue). It was hard, but I managed to do so in less than 4 years and was debt free. During this time, we drove cheapest card around (no, biking is not an option here), we sat on the broken sofa and watched over-the-air free TV on the old style TV…
Funny story – once we paid off the debt and now are able to afford anything, we are still driving 12 year old cars, sofa is still crap and we still do not have cable TV.
Still, getting out of the debt was the best thing ever – I was able to walk into my boss’s office and demand huge raise (as I could afford to lose my job), my wife retired at 35 so that we can have kids and she can raise them herself), and last week I started moving towards my own business (work is my hobby).
I agree with MMM – if you have any debt, there is no excuse for doing anything but paying it off. You should downgrade your accommodations to the one level up from a tent, sell the big cars, cut the cable, cell phone bills… Feed at the value grocery stores and only with what’s on special and for the time being, eating out means your back porch or a picnic.
Gipsy queen April 19, 2012, 7:42 am
Back porch (or balcony) eating out is my favorite! The food always tastes better at home!
Ross April 18, 2012, 7:57 am
My favourite (laughable) comment from my good friend about student loan debt is “well it took me four years to rack it up, of course it will take me longer than than to pay it back”. His comment was in response to me turning down going on a golf trip with him and some buddies as I told him I was going to put my money towards my student debt instead.
In the end, I spent 7 years in Uni and paid off my student debt in 14 months after graduating. My friend who spent 4 years in school is still working on his student loans 6 years later (and think he has also rang up a LOC debt to pay off his credit cards).
Chris April 18, 2012, 8:02 am
I’ve always tried to tell myself that “NOW” is the time to pay off debt as I stared at a painful credit card balance and not later. Right now is always the time to pay off debt- As in “Right MEOW!!”
Dancedancekj April 18, 2012, 8:13 am
Hah, hopefully you’ll get a laugh out of this. I was always puzzled by the fact that other people my age (I’m in my upper twenties now) always seemed to have a more expensive and trendier wardrobe than me, always had money to spend at the bar, and could afford expensive cars and igadgets and ski trips to Colorado. Where was all this money coming from, since they were still going to school and didn’t have a trust fund? I was so CONFUSED :-/
It took me four years to realize that these people were all racking up credit card debt. I had no idea that there were plenty of people who didn’t pay their monthly credit card balance off in full, or who used their student loans to pay for vacations and shopping sprees. It is no less absurd to me, but at least it is not so mystifying anymore…
butterandjelly213 April 18, 2012, 9:09 am
Totally relate to this. At my first job out of college, I actually had a few nightmares about my peers earning a larger salary than me because I couldn’t figure out how they were able to spend as they did (combo of credit card and their parents kicking in, I later learned).
Joe Average March 24, 2015, 3:17 pm
YES! THIS! Talk to your kids alot while they are growing up. I had the same problem. Little concept of money, how much people made, and how they spent what they had.
Parents and I talked but we didn’t always do a good job of communicating. I made alot of mistakes b/c of the lessons not learned – my fault. I also learned alot from those mistakes – and for me at times – that was the only way I’d ever get smarter.
Talk to your kids about money and life choices (choosing a spouse, starting a family, career, etc). My wife and I have done really great on the choice in spouses and raising the family so far. We’re old fashioned on some topics I suppose. Money? Not as successful immediately. I put some of the blame on the slow economy. We’re past all that now.
I know exactly what you mean. I could never understand how my co-workers and peers had such nice homes and cars, vacations, the latest gadgets. I couldln’t figure out what I was doing wrong – thought I was either underpaid, or they were managing their money much better than I. I finally realized they were living way beyond their means.
Lea April 18, 2012, 5:59 pm
I only realized in the last few years that you COULD carry a balance on your credit card. I asked someone why the limit on my credit card was $6000, because how could anyone possibly spend that much money in one month? They had to explain to me that you were allowed to carry a balance on your credit card.
Mr. Frugal Toque April 19, 2012, 6:52 am
It’s funny that the world makes us feel crazy for not carrying a balance when clearly it’s the only reasonable way to use a credit card.
As you point out, we should be suspicious when the credit card limit is more than one months’ net salary.
Already, you have to know somebody is up to something fishy.
Poor Student April 18, 2012, 8:16 am
I always shake my head at personal finance bloggers who say they are keeping their debt so they can invest, or because it is tax deductible, or any other nonsensical reason.
Debt scares me like nothing else. I made a vow to get through school without debt, and am going to stay debt free after graduating.
Every time you go out for dinner while you still have credit card debt each dollar for that meal likely costs $1.10 or something if one does the math. I would like to see a chart like that.
Great post, something everybody should see.
Sir Osis of DeLiver February 23, 2013, 6:24 pm
While I understand the psychological aversion, it’s not always irrational from a purely economic standpoint to carry some debt under controlled circumstances.
For example, I have a 4.0% fixed rate 30-year mortgage on my primary residence. The loan is less than 40% of the house’s value so I have no concern about being underwater even if/when the market tanks. I see no reason to pay it off ahead of schedule, although I certainly could, since even in the mediocre market since 2000 I’ve been averaging 4.7%+ CAGR on my investments, and I don’t expect inflation (and market returns) to stay this low for the entire remainder of the mortgage term. I also have a disproportionately large share of my assets in real estate since I live in an expensive area and have a (profitable) rental property, so I prefer to have some diversification.
Of course, credit cards debt is a totally different story.
Joe Average March 24, 2015, 3:20 pm
For those of us without a ton of property assets though I would argue paying off the house isn’t a bad idea. Sure, you could invest the money rather than paying off the debt but having a roof over one’s head when the economy tanks isn’t a bad thing.
Matt April 18, 2012, 8:20 am
The video was great, particularly the music. Explosions in the Sky is by far my favorite band!
Brian April 18, 2012, 8:27 am
It seems like we all learn this lesson about lending money the hard way. I guess the point is that the reason the person that needs the money got there is because they didn’t prioritize paying debt off.
We have a renter in our duplex and we reduced the rent for a few months because he was having difficulty with some bills. I’ll never do that again. He bought a used car and continued with the mega cable package while we biked to work and cancelled cable. Four years later, he is just about paid back up.
Whenever I owe someone money on a personal level, I have a vague sense of a giant flashing red negative number over my head.
Since the flashing red number is visible to everyone around me, it would be as embarrassing to go to a Nonsense Store and purchase a Flashy Consumable Item as it would be to be a vomit-covered drunk who found a $20 bill and immediately heads to the liquor store.
The odd thing is that my parents never felt the need to tell us about the importance of buying things with money you have rather than money you hope to have later. They just did things the proper way and it rubbed off on us.
Raising children today, though, I feel it’s necessary to explain to my kids how to buy and not buy things. The people who market credit cards are much more clever than they were 30 years ago.
Ahh.. But did it rub off an ALL the frugal toque siblings? I think I’ve heard stories that indicate otherwise :-)
I wonder if monetary responsibility is a combination of genetic predisposition, parental example, and peers and cultural learning later in life. Here at MMM, we’re working on the last of these factors – changing the entire culture!
For sure. My dad was very financially responsible and it rubbed off on me and many of my sisters. But I’ve got one sister and one brother who are spenders. Much of it is their friends and who they are married to.
I also wonder these things – would love to see a post from MMM or guest on any real studies behind the psychology of savers. I also agree it has to be a wide combination of factors, and it IS possible to change later in life (for worse or better)
I think it’s important to keep in mind that people who grew up in non-Mustachian environments have real barriers to overcome to “see the light” – no excuses, but barriers. It is a HUGE perspective shift to undergo, coming from someone who’s gone through it (and still considers it one of the most influential events in my life). There’s no one magical way that will work for everyone to change their way of thinking – like addiction, everyone’s rock bottom is different!
Also I would love to see someone come up with a “How Mustachian are you?” survey/grade so people can really see where they stand. Like, +10 if you are completely debt free, +5 if you only have a mortgage, +3 if you only have student loans under 20k, 0 if you have student loans over 20k, -3 if you have car loan, etc. (there could be LOTS of measurements!)
Emmers April 18, 2012, 7:24 pm
I definitely get my hyper-saving from my grandmother, who grew up during the Depression.
Curtis April 21, 2012, 8:41 am
In many cases it’s like trying to describe a rainbow to one born blind.
Talk till your blue in the face, and get nowhere. (Don’t bother using that idiom with a person born blind either.)
Mr. Frugal Toque April 19, 2012, 7:21 am
For sure. There are a lot of factors. People raised in the same household can become massive credit-card overspenders or frugal penny pinchers without any apparent regard for age, economic situations during childhood or any such thing.
I used to believe that kids raised in single parent households came out magically responsible with debt and frugal with spending, but I’ve seen enough cases now to show that this is no panacea either.
It’s something that has to be intentionally taught. Without forethought, your kids might go either way.
Oh Yonghao August 28, 2014, 4:43 pm
My family is a good case in point. My father worked at a large microchip manufacturer making good money, probably around $70k a year back starting in the 80’s to 90’s. My life growing up included phrases that made me believe that checks are made out of rubber (they bounce, or had the possibility of bouncing) and that eating out with a family of 7 was at least a once a week occurrence.
Checks have fallen out of fashion these days, but back then a common “trick” my parents would do was to go to the grocery store, each grab a 12 pack of Diet Coke, head to separate check out stands and write checks for $20 over. With the $40 we would then go to McDonalds and all get a happy meal. As we got older they would have to go to multiple stores so we could all get the #2 super sized. Any windfall was immediately celebrated in like fashion.
Somehow through all of this I came out as the black sheep of the family. At an early age I realized that I could save whatever money came my way in order to purchase things later that I wanted. When given $10 for lunch I would get something around $3 and pocket the rest.
We grew up on and off of food stamps, free lunch programs, and eventually reduced lunch as some of us got older. We shopped K-Mart and Good Will for clothing due to not having enough money. My father commuted 50 miles each way to work 4 days a week and put in every over time hour he could. Despite all this by the time I graduated high school they had lost their cars and their house, and continued to spend on storage units and eating out while complaining about not having enough money. They eventually divorced due to the mishandling of finances.
Luckily I was unable to get a credit card until my frugality muscles were well developed. Against my friends advice I never run a balance on my card that ever incurs interest, I always pay it off. I’ve had enough money to live in a foreign country, move there, move back again some 6 years later, buy a car when I got back in cash (although had a been a bit more Mustachian then I would have opted for a more efficient vehicle, but 32mgp while doing some basic hypermiling isn’t too bad when compounded with the fact I use less than one tank a month), and spend another couple grand on furnishing, including washer and dryer (dryer is rarely used now).
A year and a half after the move here I had enough for a 10% down payment and bought a house close to work and now bike. My net worth is around $63k and growing roughly $24k a year. Like other posters here I have lent money to friends and cringed as I saw them continue to indulge in luxuries and consumer spending. My family all still live paycheck to paycheck, one makes minimum wage and bought a car to drive to work which is half a mile down the street.
My father now is much better off, but he still spends every cent he earns on things he likes, but no longer plays the bouncing check game, or using credit cards, only debit cards. He’s been a great example to me of someone who never complained about hard work, even while working three jobs, two on top of his nice salary one, to continue and provide for his family.
Despite all the lack of frugality, and the rampant spending of money in my childhood I came out with an utter distaste for running a debt. My biggest memory of watching Little House on the Prairie was Mr. Ingles insistence of “paying cash on the barrel”.
John @ Married (with Debt) April 18, 2012, 8:40 am
Awesome. I’ve been trying to develop a quiz where you can decide if it’s time to panic about your debt. I could just save people the trouble and send them this post.
Emmers April 18, 2012, 7:25 pm
Every answer to the quiz: “Yes! Panic!” :-D
James April 18, 2012, 8:51 am
“Then I’ll see you at the next stage, which is really where this more advanced blog begins.”
I spend my limited blog/forum time for that very reason. I’ve been done with the CC debt for many years, working on wiping out student loan debt this year, I’m not interested in someone baby talking their way toward suggesting modest changes that have limited results. I want someone to kick my ass and remind me to be badass, and this is the only place I’ve found to get it. That is why I’m here. That is what makes you a unique and valuable commodity.
Kenneth April 18, 2012, 11:31 am
Yes MMM is a kick your ass punch you in the face blogger. I think we are all OK with that. If I had my weight loss to do over again (I’m down 70 pounds) I secretly fantasized about having Jillian Michaels of Biggest Loser fame being my personal trainer and kicking my ass every hour of every day. “Do NOT eat that thing or I will kick your ass!” “Do NOT hang onto the treadmill rails or I will be in your FACE right now!”
A question: why not encourage paying off a mortgage too? (We have no debt other than our four properties – one we live in, three apt buildings. Our emergency funds are $50k plus. Our investment accounts are plugging along…blahblah…) Just curious. Is it b/c the thought of paying off that amount is too much? or b/c of the tax write-offs? or? I did a little investigating a while back and concluded that paying off one of our properties is a better investment for us, than other options. I don’t mind losing the tax write-offs b/c our income goes down as we work less. We don’t want more properties, b/c managing three is enough. Anyway, why not include it?
Also…as an aside…you have got me walking to work! Seriously! I’m doing it!
Tax write offs….let’s see. If you spend 10,000 in interest on the mortgage (to pluck a nice round number out of the air) to “save” 2,800 in taxes by being able to write off said 10,000 from the gross…….
Net……-10,000 interest paid to the bank + 2,800 tax “savings” from the feds = -7,200.employees leaving your pocket each and every year.
There. Did the math set up for you, plug in your own numbers.
Emmers April 18, 2012, 7:27 pm
THANK YOU. Whenever people talk about how having a mortgage is good because “tax write off,” my poor keyboard gets a pounding from my forehead.
Seriously, MMM, please consider writing a post about Common Myths About Taxes!
Unless you’re burying your money in the backyard this is a gross simplification.
Emmers April 19, 2012, 10:34 am
Yes, exactly. Paying interest to anyone is not something you should ever do, unless your return on that money (from an investment elsewhere) is greater than the interest.
Gerard April 19, 2012, 1:44 pm
I second what Emmers says. My favourite: “My marginal rate is 39%, therefore I pay 39% on every dollar I earn… I avoid earning extra money because it’ll put me in a higher tax bracket and I’ll lose money on the deal!”
Although given that this is an advanced blog, perhaps such stuff is too far beneath us…
Geek April 18, 2012, 11:22 am
I’m taking on a mortgage (I can own a house fully in <20 years, or I can rent another 30 years and save at the same rate I am now and own the same house after inflation.)…
And I'm probably going to treat it as pretty urgent debt for a while. I think we could pay it off in 5 years. Credit cards would have me joining the "free food on campus" group at my work for all my meals.
joe @ Retire By 40 April 18, 2012, 10:16 am
Nice. Yeah, there are plenty of beginner blogs that deal with credit card debts. That’s just the first baby step toward being financially independent.
Why do you have that 15 mpg Ford F150 if you owe so much credit card debt?
I still have mortgage debts and those are painful even if they are low interest.
That $30 omelette better be able to beat its six eggs, fry itself, serve me, and clean up after!
Andre April 18, 2012, 10:26 am
I’ve only lent money on two occasions ($600 and $10K) to my best friend and to my brother. I was fully paid back as agreed both times, but I don’t plan on ever doing it again. A joint real estate venture with my father, however, went terribly bad fast.
Joy April 18, 2012, 10:49 am
When wanting to help out a family member or, friend, I like Bill Cosby’s advice.
Don’t loan money. Give the money as a gift.
Money mixed with personal relationships are not good business. Nor, are
they good relationship builders. Your once “equal” friend/family member
has now become a debtor to you. You will look at them with different eyes.
They will see you differently too.
If you are being asked for money and, don’t want to gift it, simply say no.
There was a time many years ago my younger brother showed up at my
house asking for 10 bucks. I gave it. A few weeks later he came to the
door asking for 10 bucks. I emptied my piggy bank and, gave it to him in
change. A few weeks later, he came to my door asking for 10 bucks. I told
him I didn’t have 10 bucks but, if I did, I would like to spend it myself.
He never asked for money again.
ErikZ April 19, 2012, 3:53 pm
When I needed a car loan all I could get was a loan at 16%.
Instead I borrowed the money at 6% from my Mother and paid it off early.
It depends on the situation of the person who needs it. The job market has been very rough for a lot of people.
Ginger April 18, 2012, 11:31 am
It has been shown, with research I gave send you if you like, that making large sweeping changes does not work long term and those habits will not be formed. It is better to start slowly and work your way up. Cut down cable, then 6 months later, cut out cable. Cut down one meal out , then another, and another. Then, start working on grocery meals etc. Someone who takes a year to get to the point you think they should start off with and keeps it up until the debt is gone will be better off than a person who starts like you think they should and stops it after 3-6 months. That is why yoyo dieting does not work. I understand that you never had to work your way up, but that means you may not understand the best way to do so.
I think that the opposite can easily be true too. When I do things gradually I tend to fall off of the wagon because the change I seek is happening too slowly.
I hate going to work NOW. I want to be able to do things on my terms AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. For me this blog and others have been a wake-up call to action and I am going in with both feet as fast as I can. To do it gradually just invites exceptions to creep in and focus to be lost for me.
yosnowden April 18, 2012, 4:44 pm
Ditto that for me. When it comes to will-power and getting stuff done I have to go all or nothing.
Stashette April 18, 2012, 4:00 pm
I think it depends on the amount and type of debt. A person who is “just getting by” without accumulating serious debt would likely benefit from a gradual approach.
However, a person who is $10k, $50, or more in debt is a like a person who just had a quadruple bypass. Gradually cutting back on bacon intake over the course of a few years isn’t going to make a difference. In these cases, rapid changes are needed because as MMM says, it’s an emergency.
Roothy March 14, 2015, 3:58 pm
I know this post is almost three years old, but I’d love to see that research. It seems to me if we could devise some device to distinguish these two types (who are helped by extreme, cold turkey measures; who instead need gradual changes) we could tailor interventions in a way that would be truly helpful.
Maitas January 14, 2019, 7:04 pm
Thinking about what you said. Diets don´t work because yo can start for two weeks and nothing happens.
But frugality has an instant effect. You stop spending on everything except the bare minimum and instantly you will see your money stays with you.
I find that this is a personality thing, a lot like Ginger said above. Meaning, large sweeping changes versus smaller incremental changes.
I liken it to weight loss, because I have experience with that. I gained 50-60 lbs gradually over several years, though the first 30 lbs came on fast. I tried for a long time to lose it. It wasn’t until I went all ninja on my diet (I was already exercising) that I was able to lose the weight. And that trend has continued. When I lost the baby weight, it was the same. I had to sit down, count calories RELIGIOUSLY with weight watchers, take zero money with me to work so I wouldn’t be tempted by the vending machine, stop eating out completely, stop drinking wine completely.
Only after making those drastic changes and having them be “habit” after 2-3 months could I relax a tiny bit and incorporate an occasional meal out or glass of wine, and by then, I was no longer overweight. Kind of like the Biggest Loser (to get an example from bad reality TV). Those people only are able to lose weight by completely changing their lifestyle upside down.
So when it comes to debt reduction, I would say that’s probably my personality also (though our only debt is our house). Big, bold changes.
However, a lot of people have to do the small, incremental changes, or they will give up. I know many others who try the drastic process, and fail, and that’s it. I have a friend who is a dietitian who helps people with weight loss using the small steps process and it’s amazingly effective for some people (not me). I have a friend who lost 30 lbs with small, incremental changes. It took him 2 years to do it but he didn’t feel deprived at all, and it all started with cutting back from 2 cups of rice at lunch to 1.5 cups. Then from 1 glass of wine/day to 1/2 glass per day.
Of course, success in small changes makes you more confident and able to accelerate the changes or make them bolder.
Jamie April 18, 2012, 12:11 pm
Great post MMM. Continue to tell it like it is!
Leslie April 18, 2012, 12:32 pm
Wait, so… I have some sort of investment account currently worth $17,000, started for me by my parents in better times (I don’t think I even knew about it until I was 24 – I’m now 27. I don’t know what kind of account it is, beyond “securities market,” or whether money can be taken out of it, but I’m trying to determine that now). I don’t have any credit card debt, but I do have about $10,000 of student loan debt left to pay off from undergrad, which will cost me $14,000 on my current payment plan. Would you advise taking this money and using it to pay off my student loan debt immediately? That seems like the obvious thing to do, but it seems like my parents would have thought of that and mentioned it if it were.
Do you have other reading you’d recommend on these kinds of decisions? Sorry to be such a noob.
I think you know the answer to this… Of course you pay off the student loan. You are looking at a known money sink (debt interest) versus an unknown potential gain (securities.) Also, you are 27… It’s time to take control of your finances.
Leslie April 18, 2012, 12:49 pm
>>Also, you are 27… It’s time to take control of your finances.
Thanks, brah. That’s why I’m reading this blog, doing research and asking questions.
Why is it going to cost you $14,000 to pay off your debt? It would take 10 years at 4% to add another $4,000 to your debt. 10 years is way too long for a debt of this size. Although paying interest is not good, I think you need to take another look at your repayment plan rather than dip into existing savings. You will appreciate paying this off more if you do it yourself.
At payments of $500/month you would be able to have this debt paid off in less than two years and minimize your interest costs. Once paid off I would recommend switching that monthly payment to putting it towards a retirement account or saving for a house down payment.
Sorry, I should have been clearer – it’s $14,000 on my current payment plan, which is the default Sallie Mae assigned to me when I graduated in 2006 – payments of about $110 a month (now stretching until 2023, because I deferred payment for several years while I was in grad school). If I decide not to use my savings to pay it all off at once, I could certainly change this payment plan significantly. (Although interestingly, on the Sallie Mae website, they only give you an easy link for decreasing your monthly payment, not for increasing it. Thanks, guys.)
Ross April 18, 2012, 1:52 pm
In that case, I would definitely recommend paying down the debt yourself as you will get a much greater appreciation for taking responsibility for your finances. I would suggest that you start by creating a monthly budget and figuring out how much you can put towards debt repayment. Most people on this blog would recommend paying it down as aggressively as possible and setting high monthly payments. If you set a frugal budget with high monthly payments you should have that debt paid off in no time and keep your interest costs to a minimum. You may also want to review the loan and make sure that your are paying a reasonable interest rate.
I was able to pay off my $35,000 student debt in 13 months. My budget was very tight and I had to be frugal but by the time I had it paid off I had a much greater appreciation for the amount of work it takes to get out of debt and pay for the things that I want.
Leslie April 18, 2012, 3:24 pm
Thanks for your advice! In case anyone is curious, it turns out my investment account is a Roth IRA, so I can take out the principal with no penalties but would have to pay a bunch of tax if I took out any of the earnings.
Paying off $35,000 in 13 months is awesome. Congratulations! I only make $45K pre-tax… but maybe I can pay this whole thing off this year.
@Leslie I won’t claim to be fully Mustachian and may get blasted for saying this, but I for one would not take money out of a Roth lightly (e.g. to pay off a loan that is at a “reasonable” interest rate, where <5% is clearly reasonable and anything 5-10% probably merits some mulling and anything over 10 may not merit mulling at all, but I really have no idea, not having ever if my life to date had debt at that rate.). The tax advantages of Roths appeal to me a lot (and basically, the younger you are — and you are noticeably younger than me), the more valuable those should be (the longer your investment and its earnings have time to compound), and, though there are some loopholes (e.g. converting other IRAs to Roths, if you have other IRAs), you can only contribute $5K per year outright to a Roth.
Were I you, I'd check the interest rate on that debt, and possibly talk to a professional financial advisor, before touching the Roth. Once you've done that, you can't undo it. I'd also, of course, recommend exploring other Mustachian options (cutting costs), rather than touching the Roth.
cdub April 19, 2012, 9:49 am
I just read that it is a Roth IRA. Yeah, definitely don’t touch that. As for my 27 year old comment. I guess that came out wrong. I have an 18 year old who graduates high school next month. He can’t wait for “freedom” as he calls it. I guess I just can’t fathom someone your age actually giving a care what their parents think about their finances. That said, it sounds like they did a nice thing for you with that ROTH! Keep it, pay down your debt and keep learning!
JaneMD April 19, 2012, 8:46 pm
As a whole, I try not to remove my debt payments from my retirement savings. Many people consider doing something similar to pay for their children’s tuition – but the retirement count marches on. You can alter and extend your loans; retimrement accounts not as well.
How long would it take you to pay off living frugally or becoming a Master Mustache?
I have a tiny formatting suggestion; instead of putting footnotes at the bottom of the page, could you put them right after the relevant paragraph? That would save a lot of unnecessary scrolling.
Sean April 19, 2012, 5:01 am
That, or you could use a hyperlink instead. I’ve seen other bloggers do that before, and I love it.
George April 18, 2012, 1:17 pm
Thanks for the great posting.
Even though me and my wife have no debt except our mortgage, I think the same hardcore attitude can be applied even after you’re out of debt.
I noticed that there is a comfortable neutral area that is tempting to fall into, its the zone between having only mortgage debt as your only debt and not yet reaching early retirement.
Even though we’re doing ok with about 150k in savings total and steady dividend income, this reminds me that we need to kick it up a notch and start building the stash up more to get to that next level. I think I am getting too complacent.
It seems its even better if you can take that same drive and apply it even after you’re out of debt to get to early retirement.
I agree that debt should be considered an emergency. I’d like to add that it only crosses the line into ‘Emergency’ territory when the interest you’re paying on it is higher than the return you can logically expect from investing the money, in my opinion.
For example, I have a loan with my parents left over from school. I pay zero interest on this loan. I recently finished paying off my government student loan (after putting a concerted effort at it for a year, although only a fraction of what No More Harvard Debt did!).
Now, while I am paying of the loan to my parents, I am also putting a larger effort towards investments that will return 4-6% over time.
Emmers April 18, 2012, 7:54 pm
Yep! We have a 0% loan for our newer car — we don’t pay it off, because 0%!
cdub April 19, 2012, 9:51 am
I was doing that but had to pay it off to qualify for a loan on an investment (rental) property. Still feels nice not having the payment even though it was interest free.
Nice suggestion! Thanks.
Looks like she has also knocked off her debt in a NMHD type of way – by going all out. I love these stories! The most interesting thing is what people learn through this experience and how much of that badassity they decide to keep for the rest of their lives.
Mr. Stache, I would be interested in your view of debt for those of us who are comfortable and could easily extinguish such liabilities if we wished. For example, the working stiff who has no immediate plans to retire, is in a 30+% marginal tax bracket and owns a home with a 200k mortgage at 3%: would you suggest that this person hurry up to pay off the loan? This becomes an investment./trading decision more than anything else, I would suggest.
If you run your 2011 tax filing numbers with and without the mortgage interest deduction, you’ll see what makes the most sense for your specific situation.
I saved thousands of dollars with the mortgage interest deduction this year. Down the road I will accelerate mortgage payments but for now those extra little green employees are going into my investment portfolio.
MMM, so glad you posted this primer. I’m still amazed at the number of people who take the time and effort to read this blog yet stupidly continue to pay on cars they don’t own outright and cable tv that is a total waste of funds … and eating out and going to movies/bars …. and buying expensive clothes vs Target/thrift/eBay…. the list goes on and on… Good god.
“I saved thousands of dollars [on the taxes I paid to the Federal Govt] with the mortgage interest deduction this year.”
At the cost of ~3.6x that in interest.
Look at the TOTAL cost – the TOTAL outflow of dollars. You pay 10,000 in interest to the bank to save ~2800 in taxes paid to the Govt. How again is paying 10,000 to one shyster to save 2800 in taxes a good deal?
The Masked Investor April 19, 2012, 8:53 am
Hmmm. This is really an after-tax cost of money exercise vs. other possibilities. If my after tax cost of mortgage is 2.5% or less and my portfolio generates high single digit (or better) returns, you would be walking away from a lot of money over several years to prepay.
Perhaps, but consider:
Counter party risk in paying off debt: zero, as in you are guaranteed to always be out of debt and have zero interest expense if you pay off your debt. You are guaranteed to always have this improvement to your net worth statement, forever, by paying off debt.
Counter party risk in not paying off debt, investing debt repayment money for income that might exceed interest on the debt: Far, far, FAR higher. A company you invest in pulls an Enron (or Washington Mutual, or you were a GM bond holder, or AIG stock holder, or….fill in the blank, and don’t have the arrogance to assume you’ll be smart enough to avoid these), you’re hosed. The Bernanke screws with the currency – you’re hosed. One time asset tax to pay part of the national debt, you’re hosed. You still have the debt and now your income stream is cut down and a significant fraction of your capital is wiped out while you still owe the debt. This is not a resilient situation, it’s a vulnerable one.
There are 2 sides to the ledger: Income and expenses. There are 2 sides to the net worth statement, assets and debts. The individual can control the latter of these two FAR better than the former. Avoid expenses by adopting a frugal life style. Avoid debt (or pay it off as quickly as practical) to increase the net worth. Both of these cases result in very resilient lives – I owe NOTHING to no one so therefore I don’t NEED a big base of assets to cover it. I have very low expenses, hence I need only a minimal income to live well.
Three Wolf Moon January 13, 2014, 6:23 pm
Leaving this for anyone else in this situation working through the old posts like me – one other consideration not mentioned in the calculations is the expected rate of inflation. If you have a 30-year fixed rate mortgage and expect inflation to go up in the future, that is another argument for not paying it off earlier. Of course, that would not apply to someone who is living off retired and living off a fixed annuity or some other non-inflation following source of income, but for those still working (and in a job that gives reasonable raises to keep up with cost of living increases) or invested in stocks or rental homes (prices/rents tend to rise with inflation) then keeping the mortgage would result in a better real rate of return as inflation increases.
This is an interesting discussion, for most paying off that mortgage is probably the best thing they can do. ONLY because, for most they’d spend a portion of it on frivolous bullshit. If you’re like MMM it seems reasonable to suggest you wouldn’t.
The only other reason you’d pay it off is if you’re earning less than 3% on your investments. And If you’re earning less than 3% its probably time to re-think your portfolio.
Brandy April 18, 2012, 2:02 pm
Thanks MMM!!! I needed a kick in my pants! I have 21000 on my credit card at 0% interest until October. I have been paying it down 3000/month so I will be at 0 by then…but I have also been spending money on eating out, going to the movies and other stuff that I don’t need. I am going to bump up my payoff!
Brooke April 18, 2012, 3:06 pm
You are a total Money Badger! This is a fantastic post. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4r7wHMg5Yjg The whole point of the money you are losing in interest being money you could spend on fun stuff like at perpetualkid.com is what caught my attention to pay off my debt in the first place. I was spending 100 bucks a month just to own a piece of plastic when I could have had my very own mustache!
Glenn April 18, 2012, 3:28 pm
Speaking to the ‘genetic versus cultural’ idea of financial responsibility, I came from a home with no sense of money. Parents always, always overspent and never had a plan of any kind. I bought the house from under them 10 years ago in order to rescue them from bankruptcy. (Awful investment for me as they pay me no rent, just insurance and taxes). They are again now way under due to credit cards and government loans. All three siblings are equally terrible with money. Profoundly bad.
Fortunately their ways never rubbed off on me. I am financially independent in spite of my upbringing. I have flirted with far too much consumer spending in hindsight over the years, but I never seemed to rack up the debt all that much.
So as for me, no frugal/FI gene in my blood. Had to be cultural/learned somehow.
Executioner April 18, 2012, 5:12 pm
As NMHD and many other bloggers have demonstrated (yours truly included), keeping oneself honest in the form of a blog is a great way to achieve (and exceed!) financial goals.
Perhaps a future MMM blog entry could be called, “Get Rich With: your own PF blog.”
Allison April 18, 2012, 5:54 pm
I love your blog. This post is so timely for our family. Sadly, we didn’t punch debt in the face. For a few years, we gently nudged it. Even with a more delicate approach, we have been able to pay off hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt and build up quite an investment portfolio.
Last weekend, one of our oldest friends had an EMERGENCY with a capital E and needed to borrow some cash. He has a good job, nice house, and decent education. He went over his balance sheet with us and we were floored. It has been so long since we left the American consumer lifestyle behind, it seemed really bizarre someone would have so much useless crap and no real investments. When his emergency passes, I will be directing him to your site where, hopefully, he can learn a little…
@MMM you write, “You don’t start a family … There will be plenty of time for these things later, …” I believed that, but it wasn’t true in my case; were there one thing in my life to date I’d have done differently in retrospect, it’s take on debt to be able to pursue infertility treatment or adoption sooner than I did.
How you know which choice is right for you I cannot say, but I for one don’t believe that delaying having children if you are otherwise ready in order to pay down (or avoid taking on) debt is always the right choice (this is particularly true in the context already referenced in others’ comments, where debt is cheap).
I’m on board with you bogart. MMM has his financial situation under control, but his circumstances are probably vastly different then a number of the readers. Certain things aren’t worth waiting for.
I read another post above highlighting a gentleman turning down a golf trip with friends. I take a yearly golf trip with old friends and I would NEVER give that up – it far out weighs its cost as it allows me to reconnect with friends I don’t get to see frequently. I’m debt free and live a relatively frugal lifestyle, but I have a number of friends who have student loans, and perhaps they should cut other costs but the golf trip – never.
True Bogart – you can always find exceptions and holes in these rules that Mr. Money Mustache is laying out. The goal is just to write something that applies to most people, most of the time – with the examples given in the article being typical ones.
Student loans – especially those at low interest rates – are one exception. It’s much less of an emergency to pay off a loan like that (while you might not delay child-raising, you’d still be wise to live a very frugal lifestyle until you get back out of the red).
Mortgages are not an emergency at interest rates like we have today. It is reasonable to expect that stock or real estate investments will pay greater returns than paying off your mortgage. But again, buying $300 shoes while you still have a mortgage and are not financially independent? Dumb.
The only super-duper emergency is high-interest debt, like the credit card crap described above. That is so expensive, that its worth delaying almost anything to get out of it. And this article is simply to point out that most people don’t make ANY sacrifices to get out of credit card debt. In fact, they do exactly the opposite – buying even more frivolous stuff, because they think the debt is a normal part of life.
So that’s my real point: consumer debt is NOT a normal part of life. It’s an accident that needs to be fixed or avoided.
bogart April 19, 2012, 1:39 pm
Thanks, MMM, yes, that makes sense.
I do think much of the debt that is available to those with good credit and decent incomes at the moment is so cheap that honestly, it’s hard to justify paying it off ahead of schedule unless there’s some other rationale for doing so, but I do live in something of a “bubble” in terms of stuff like being aware of what others are paying for credit card debt because … yeah, yikes.
Tyrndamere April 18, 2012, 9:39 pm
Can someone who is a hardcore mustachian tell me whether it is a good idea to consolidate student loans aka refinance or is it better to pay the loans through the snowball effect (starting with the highest interest bearing one first)???
I’m about to graduate from school and need advice, and thanks!
It’s (mostly) math…
High interest debt is tackled first. lower interest debt second and
preferred debt (debt you can deduct like mortgage interest) if the rate is low enough, can be tackled last or not at all. I am actually not a fan of paying off homes early. It’s a long discussion but in short I think the money could work harder leveraged than it could paying down the interest. At least at the current rates. Also, paying extra principal doesn’t protect you from foreclosure should you find yourself unable to make the mortgage, the “Extra payments” would be better off in a cash flow investment or savings side pot IMHO.
Being a real estate investor I am actually getting mortgages back on paid off properties at historically low interest rates to invest in other real estate properties at historically low interest rates and prices. I imagine most people will stick with dividend earning stock (I do that a bit too) but the point hods.
Emmers April 19, 2012, 10:47 am
I thought the “snowball effect” was one of the psychological tricks used by Frugality 101 writers (e.g. Dave Ramsey) to pay off the smallest *balance* first, so you feel accomplished about yourself, and then continue in order of size of balance.
It’s not the mathematically ideal plan, but if you are still in the Frugality 101 class and you need those baby steps, it is *way* better than staying in debt forever!
Such a great post MMM! It’s about time somebody took the bull by the horns and said it like it is. In just one year you have written so many classic posts it amazes me. Keep up the good work!!
Kar April 19, 2012, 4:28 am
MMM love your blog. What’s your opinion on student loan debt whose interest rate is less than inflation (1.87%)? From a pure math perspective it seems like my money would work harder in a retirement account rather than paying the loan down.
slugsworth April 19, 2012, 11:41 am
I would also be curious about MMM opinion on this. . .
EDIT- I just saw MMM comment above – stating that he didn’t believe that super low student loan debt was a big concern –
I’m in the same boat, I’ve got a student loan below 1% interest and while on one hand I would love to get rid of it – I know that from a math perspective I should keep that loan stretched out as long as I can while paying down my mortgage (my only other debt) and building my stash. . . my online savings account gets slightly higher interest than the student loan.
Jaclyn April 19, 2012, 6:39 am
I’m in a funk. I have $125,000 in student loan debt, much like NMHD. However, I already live a frugal life and my only assets are my non-extravegent car I need to get to and from work and my small emergency fund. Almost half my paycheck goes to debt and it will still take me 7 years to pay it off. I would like to get a second job, but I travel so much for my day job that a.) I’m not sure too many places would want to hire me if I’m gone every other week and b.) do I really want to spend all that time away from home and my family for minimum wage? I either need to suck it up and start looking forward to 7 years from now, or I need to get creative.
James April 19, 2012, 7:29 am
I think you know the answer to that, go ahead and get creative. It’s possible you will strike out with some ideas or make mistakes, but that’s ok. As long as you are not adding to the debt, you have little to loose by trying.
Even if it’s a very small thing, start there. Every little bit you take off that loan at this point removes not just the principle you pay off, but also the interest on that principle you would be paying for the next 7 years. If you pay off $100 of the principle next month, and your interest rate is 5%, you are actually decreasing what you will need to pay by $135. As you pay down the principle more and more of your normal loan payment goes toward principle.
Geek April 19, 2012, 9:01 am
What’s your emergency fund $ amount? As James says, paying down a bit of principle now will pay off later.
The emergency fund is $3,000. My husband is a full-time student. With only one income coming in, we need the emergency fund. When he gets a job (hopefully in the next couple of months) we’ll have a lot more flexibility with that $.
rjack April 19, 2012, 10:24 am
” I either need to suck it up and start looking forward to 7 years from now, or I need to get creative.”
I would do both. After 7 years, you will be an expert at living on half your salary or less. You can carry this invaluable skill forward and start saving LOTS of money.
I would get creative by trying to look it as a game of “How Fast Can I Destroy My Debt”. I would put a Big Ass Chart on your wall that up update monthly so you can see the debt destruction.
You might be able to find a side business you can start (blogging, sales, etc.). Can you get a higher paying job in the next year or two. Are there more ways to be frugal and still be happy? Every little bit helps.
Nurse Frugal April 19, 2012, 11:15 am
This article is fantastic!! So many people don’t feel a sense of urgency to pay off their 100,000 dollars worth of debt, because they are too preoccupied planning their next luxury vacation. I definitely feel a sense of urgency when it comes to debt, which is the reason why my husband and I are planning to pay off our house next year. What’s the point in keeping the debt around when we can be pocketing all that extra mortgage payment? I have found it incredibly life-changing to buckle down and figure out a means to pay off this debt, no longer do I spend extra money on shopping or extravagant stuff that I will never use! When you have a goal, there is no waivering, because it will SLOW YOU DOWN!!! If I got a dollar for every time people said “but you need a house payment, what are you going to write off?” Whoever told them you need a house payment to avoid giving the government 2,000 to instead give the bank 10,000 dollars of interest a year should be SHOT! Ridiculous, doesn’t make sense!
Some people believe that it makes more sense to take those extra payments toward the house and use the money instead to purchase assets that out perform the savings gained by eliminating mortgage debt. Since the mortgage debt has the advantage of being tax deductible it is one of the cheapest forms of cash available to people looking to leverage money into other investments. If you just want to get out of debt and build up your assets column later, that is fine too but it may build wealth slower than leveraging.
Kathy P. April 19, 2012, 12:55 pm
I think a lot of people who are in debt simply can’t see the emergency of it, because they, and everyone else they know have lived with mountains of debt for years. It’s simply how you have to live these days if you want a nice life, right? I mean, if it was such an emergency wouldn’t everyone be frantic to get out? Nobody is, so what’s the big deal?
I think, intellectually, they know the debt is a problem and they live in denial of the trouble they’d be in with a job loss or other catastrophic event. But huge car payments, an underwater mortgage, thousands in credit card bills – all of it is normal. Hard, anxiety-ridden, sure. But it’s normal.
Something else has to trigger the desire to get out of debt. It’s probably different things for different people but only after they see how free and easy life is without debt can they begin to appreciate the emergency of it. It’s like surviving any emergency; only after the fact do people break out in a cold sweat when it dawns on them how close to the edge they were.
As for the time involved, well…around 10 years ago, I was in the hole around $40,000 – $50,000: credit card balances, the remains of a 7 year car loan, and my mortgage on a small 750 sq. ft. house. I had a little money in savings, and a 403(b) at work which was doing okay, but the savings was for emergencies. If I used the savings to pay down debt, it would barely make a dent and what would happen if I had an emergency? (Even writing this makes me cringe now, but at the time all this seemed perfectly logical.)
Anyway, it became obvious that all this debt (interest) was really preventing me from doing things I wanted. It was clear that I could be doing many other cool things with my money if I didn’t have to pay all this interest. That’s what got me slowly, tentatively started on digging my way out.
Why not jump in whole hog? Because I didn’t know how to live without debt. (Remember, debt is normal for the vast majority of people, they’re comfortable with it and as far as they can see, it’s the only way.) Living without debt is a learned skill, and like anything new, you have to get your feet wet, make mistakes, and see what works. I am sure this sounds completely bizarro to you congenital mustachians but I’m sure I’m speaking for a lot of the rest of us.
So, long story short, when I finished paying off the car, I immediately began putting the car payment – around $350/month if memory serves – on the credit card debt. As I gained confidence in my ability to live without using the card, a funny thing happened…I got good at this. I began to look for other ways to cut expenses to make this go faster. And it almost seemed that as I became more responsible with my money, money kinda began to show up unexpectedly. (I hate how woo-woo that sounds, but it really seems like that’s what was happening.)
Anyway, I think it took another two years or so but in October of 2007 I paid off the last of the CC debt. All that money (debt snowball style, though I hadn’t heard the term at the time) that I’d been putting toward debt was now used to build more savings and pay down the mortgage. In October of 2009, the house was paid off – almost 5 years early.
Then I set my sights on early retirement. I’d been putting in a putzy 3% in my 403(b) for years and there was an employer contribution as well. But I turned 50 in 2007 and suddenly retirement seemed real, not some fuzzy, far off pipe dream. How to get there sooner than later? Turns out I could retire at 55 w/ no IRS penalty as long as I “separate from service”. That became the goal.
Well, as a result of the forced frugality from living with CC debt, followed by voluntary frugality while paying down debt I found I was now a bona-fide debt-averse frugalista. So I met with the TIAA-CREF advisor and doubled my contribution, even before I’d finished paying off the mortgage. When I told the guy I was debt-free except for the house, his eyebrows shot up. I could tell almost nobody tells him this.
Then the crash of 2008 happened and my account lost something like 25% which he said wasn’t as bad as for a lot of people. Ugh. But he said I probably would have to work another two or three years longer than I wanted. Uh, no. I jumped my contribution to $18K annually, made a few adjustments and never missed the money. And a year or so later, I maxed it to the $22K allowed under the IRS “catch-up” provision. Originally, I did this as I thought I was looking at a 4% pay hike, but that didn’t materialize due to county budget issues, but again, I never missed the “lost” money. I now gross around $65K a year and I’m currently saving 41% of that. Last year I lived on about $27,000 and I expect that to drop to around $24,000 this year.
Happy ending…I turn 55 next month and I will indeed be retiring as of 5/31. Depends on how bad you want the freedom and really – it’s never too late. I love how all you guys on here are 30 or 40 somethings, but for those of us that are a little older, it’s still doable. I made many mistakes, and I don’t have a huge nest egg, but it’s enough and I can bring in casual income from my art if I want. And my expenses keep dropping. It’s now a game to me, how low can I go – what new frugal skills can I learn – and still live well. Time and creativity are my friends.
So, in hindsight, yes, I understand why MMM says debt is an emergency. But my point to this looooong post (sorry!) is to encourage anyone who is where I was ten years ago to just start. Start slow and learn. Start big and learn. Just start. Then keep going. When you have success, it will build confidence and you’ll suddenly find that getting out of debt is waaaay more fun than buying crap.
Emmers April 20, 2012, 8:54 am
…I had a little money in savings, and a 403(b) at work which was doing okay, but the savings was for emergencies. If I used the savings to pay down debt, it would barely make a dent and what would happen if I had an emergency? (Even writing this makes me cringe now, but at the time all this seemed perfectly logical.)…
My general opinion of emergency savings is that they are *very* important if your only other alternative for handling emergencies is going into *more* debt. Especially high-interest credit card debt. Now, if you’re a Mustachian and you have a 2% HELOC that you can draw from if something dire happens, great! But if you’re already in a ton of credit card debt, having $3000 as a cushion against the water heater dying (or whatever) will save you from just putting that water heater repair on your credit card.
(Bias note: I’m a big one for emergency savings myself, because of my somewhat irrational aversion to debt itself. Even though it’s not *always* the mathematically correct answer.)
Although I had savings, it wasn’t much, because of what the debt was costing me. So when I had an “emergency” (I have since figured out that there are no real emergencies), I’d put it on the credit card anyway because I didn’t want to touch my meager savings. So the savings just sat there. Slowly, though, as my income improved I was able to at least meet these situations with a hybrid plan. This will probably sound terrible but when I needed a new furnace, I “financed” it by first putting it on the company’s “one year, no interest” account. Then when the year was almost up, I went to my credit union and got a loan for around half the amount. I paid off the one year, no interest debt with half from savings plus the CU loan which was at a much lower interest rate than the one that would have kicked in had I kept the original financing through the furnace company.
It can take some time to turn things around if you’ve made a lot of mistakes. Depending on their resources sometimes the most Mustachian approach will be to be as smart as possible given current constraints.
I realize now, however, that there are no emergencies. There are only expenses with an unknown date. If you have a pet, at some point there will be vet bills. Guaranteed, it will happen. If you have a car, there will be repairs. If you have a water heater, it will have to be replaced. I now just keep a pile of cash in savings – I know what it will be used for, I just don’t know when. But I no longer think of it as an emergency fund. I think it’s a matter of mindset – the word “emergency” implies surprise, as if we had no idea that water heaters don’t last forever and just when we least expect it, they decide to give up the ghost. Emergency thinking is a sort of victim thinking which reinforces a broke self image (at least for me, anyway).
Emmers April 23, 2012, 8:57 am
Oh, I see your point about calling things “emergencies” vs. not — you’re absolutely right to not view things like “the water heater breaks” as *surprises.*
And things that are true “surprises” (sudden severe illness, e.g.) aren’t really things that you can save up enough money for, so it’s not really worth worrying about them. Just focus on the things you *can* predict and take care of yourself overall.
Teresa April 21, 2012, 12:14 pm
Kathy P. This is a great comment. I think you illustrated how many of us struggle with the way we think about money. We are never done and there is always room for constant improvement. I am looking forward to curling up and reading your blog on my not so frugal ipad (but very well loved that we bought by selling old stuff btw).
Thanks to MMM too. Got me thinking I need to kick the student loan out to the curb. It has been hanging around too long. Just lining up another job right now to use the extra money to pay it off.
Ty Webb April 19, 2012, 7:20 pm
No tax deduction for mortgage interest here in Canada. Makes the decision to pay off the mortgage ASAP that much easier!
JaneMD April 19, 2012, 9:07 pm
As someone who is looking at many more years of paying off student loans, I can’t imagine credit card debt too. I had a GAP visa in college which I was using the card for its GAP discount on clearance items once every few months. I missed a payment on a $4 item and got an interest charge. I found the whole thing ridiculous and haven’t used another credit card since.
While I will never reach a full MMM (children are my vice), I use personal finance blogs to keep me motivated. (has anyone noticed that thesimpledollar.com is going off the rails?) I even write my own hybrid, but I’m all about measured purchases. For example, we have only one TV and no cable. The TV picture is starting to go, even though we watch it on Saturday nights for an hour. I’m saving the money from craigslisting various unused household items to get to my $250 flat screen TV fund.
Asango April 19, 2012, 10:35 pm
Bought my car new,paid cash and still driving it 23 years later. Only debt I ever had in my life was buying my house and paid off the loan in 5 years. Been earning an average salary all my life and currently investing over 70% of my gross earnings every month. Doing it effortlessly and not feeling it’s a sacrifice at all. Paying interest on borrowed money is simply stupid:You throw away money that took time and effort to earn.
Next Comments >
The most useful comments are those written with the goal of learning from or helping out other readers – after reading the whole article and all the earlier comments. Complaints and insults generally won’t make the cut here, but by all means write them on your own blog!
Cancel reply
Δ
Take a look around. If you think you are hardcore enough to handle Maximum Mustache, feel free to start at the first article and read your way up to the present using the links at the bottom of each article.
For more casual sampling, have a look at this complete list of all posts since the beginning of time or download the mobile app. Go ahead and click on any titles that intrigue you, and I hope to see you around here more often.
Comments
As Featured In…
© Mr. Money Mustache. All Rights Reserved | Disclaimer | Ridiculously Powerful Server and Reliability by Pantheon | Powered by Thesis
| 102,889 |
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
| 1,180 |
The number of year in an MLB player's career where the player had at least one offensive appearance. When used in the context of yearly statistics it's the specific year being measure, for career or all time it would refer to all years that make up the given time frame. Generally, for Seasons Pitched, higher is better. (Source)
What is a good Seasons Pitched?
What does good Seasons Pitched mean? "Good" baseball stats can be very subjective and mean different things to different people. I have attempted to quantify good and bad by taking season and career stats for MLB pitchers with a minimum number of pitched outs. In this case 100 for career and 50 for a season. To find good and bad within this cohort of players I calculated the first and third quartiles, anything between these quartiles I consider average. This makes up the middle 50% of players. In an example where higher is better for a stat, below the first quartile (bottom 25% of players) would be bad and above the 3rd quartile (top 25% of players) would be good. For stats where lower is better, flip around good and bad.
Career, Season, and Season Average Seasons Pitched Records
For my hot take on Seasons Pitched records most of the same rules apply from the first section. To be considered for my prestigious lists the player must meet a certain threshold of pitched outs. Since this is a Pitching stat to be considered for the career list the player must have over 100 pitched outs, for a season consideration the player must have had 75 pitched outs. Additionally, the player's final game must have been after 1899.
Distribution of Career Seasons Pitched by Player Generation
Distribution of Season Seasons Pitched by Player Generation
Distribution of Career Seasons Pitched by Player Position
Distribution of Season Seasons Pitched by Player Position
| 1,961 |
Due to the wide range of manufacturing quality and hygiene & safety related to the internal materials, in order to avoid doubts about the responsibility for product defects.
Therefore, BEAUNION has not yet provided the filling service of customer-supplied mixed materials.
How does BEAUNION check the quality? Is there a charge for sample making? How many samples can be provided at one time? How long does sample preparation usually take?
Back to List
How many factories does BEAUNION currently have? What is the daily production capacity?
Can the product be sent for third-party inspection? How are the fees charged?
Is there a charge for sample making? How many samples can be provided at one time? How long does sample preparation usually take?
| 760 |
Any flat bottom product that has a totally flat and smooth base may be used on a Halogen stove top. Do not use product that has an etched or step-cut bottom. Halogen stovetops require good contact between the pans and the surface of the stovetop. Always refer to the manufacturer of your stove top for instructions on product that is suitable to be used with Halogen stovetops.
Please also note that product with a painted, porcelain enamel exterior must never be overheated on a Halogen ceramic stovetop. Product of this type that is overheated may, in some instances, fuse to the surface of the ceramic stovetop requiring complete replacement of the stovetop.
You can preview product brands and lines meeting these recommendations via our online store at PotsandPans. For any other type of product recommendation, please refer to the instructions included with your stove or contact the manufacturer of your stove for further guidelines regarding the best product choices to use with your cooktop.
Did you find it helpful? Yes No
Sorry we couldn't be helpful. Help us improve this article with your feedback.
We use cookies to try and give you a better experience in Freshdesk Support Desk.
You can learn more about what kind of cookies we use, why, and how from our Privacy Policy. If you hate cookies, or are just on a diet, you can disable them altogether too. Just note that the Freshdesk Support Desk service is pretty big on some cookies (we love the choco-chip ones), and some portions of Freshdesk Support Desk may not work properly if you disable cookies.
We’ll also assume you agree to the way we use cookies and are ok with it as described in our Privacy Policy, unless you choose to disable them altogether through your browser.
| 1,802 |
September 22, 2011 Criminal Justice, Public Policy and Governanceblood-lust, death penalty, evolutionSheila
I am a big believer in science, but I must admit that human behavior over the past couple of weeks has made me doubt evolution.
First, we had the appalling eruptions during GOP debates–first, audience applause when Brian Williams prefaced a question to Rick Perry by noting that executions in Texas during his tenure far exceeded those in any other state; and second, shouts of “yes, let them die” when Ron Paul was asked whether uninsured people should simply be allowed to die.
Now we have the repulsive right-wing reaction to the execution of Troy Davis.
Callers to conservative radio shows last night defended that execution by insisting that the family of the murder victim “deserved closure.” Presumably, closure can come only from the death of another human being. Now, I am not a supporter of the death penalty, for many reasons I won’t go into here, but even if one does support capital punishment, I cannot conceive of the “closure” that would come from proceeding with an execution where there is such substantial doubt of guilt. How can killing the wrong person provide justice or even retribution? How would executing a possibly innocent man be any different from the murder for which they are seeking vengeance?
Perhaps human evolution doesn’t always produce a capacity for compassion or empathy, but it should at least produce beings capable of a modicum of reason. These sickening displays of irrational blood-lust suggest that some among our human family not only haven’t evolved, they’ve regressed.
9 thoughts on “Doubting Evolution”
September 22, 2011 at 11:45 am
I don’t personally buy into the idea of evolution, but the I think your idea of evolution is completely off. Evolution doesn’t mean civilization, it means becoming a better predator or consumer. The logical result of evolution is more blood-lust and self-centered activity, because evolution would favor the survival, not self-sacrifice of the individual.
As a matter of fact, evolution would favor letting the poor die and killing rouge individuals as this would promote the species in the long term. If you buy into evolution, this could be circumstantial evidence that we are evolving right now!
I think what you are really lamenting a lack of social conscience among the political right. In this I agree with you. Many have equated Republicanism with Christianity, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Christ’s teachings (which I do buy into) in Matthew chapter five clearly teach denial of self, care for the poor, and loving our enemies instead of taking an eye for an eye.
To be fair, I believe the political left has its own set of issues in relation to Christ’s teachings and social conscience, but that’s not what your article is about.
JednaVira says:
September 22, 2011 at 12:25 pm
Humanity has regressed!…and you are only noticing now? You criticize the right wing as bloodthirsty because they want a convicted murderer put to death, but you defend the “rights” of women to kill innocent children. Evolution isn’t true, if it were then you should not have any problem with “bloodthirsty conservatives” wanting to kill anyone and anything that moved along the earth; evolution mandates that there is no set standard of behavior. Morals, right and wrong, ethics (whatever you want to call it) came from a central author/standard. Follow your logic to the obvious end.
Tay says:
September 22, 2011 at 12:59 pm
@lednaVira – Mammals abort babies in the wild every day, that is part of the natural order. They do so to escape predators, in times of stress, at times when food source needs are low and they are starving and they do so biologically, even sometimes using naturally occurring plants to aid in the abortion of the fetus. They also kill other animals and their reasons are specific, for survival, dominance of territory, to further the species… yours is the flawed logic. Perhaps you should study some biology and stop trying to apply flawed religious reasoning to your arguments.
This man you call a ‘convicted felon’ was convicted on NO evidence other than ‘eyewitness testimony’, 9 witness, 7 of which would later recant their testimonies 7 people changed their testimonies! No gun was ever found, no DNA evidence could place him at the crime scene therefore there is reasonable doubt, this is a travesty of justice, it makes a mockery of the system. You want to protect zygotes which aren’t yet self-supporting outside the womb, but you don’t want to protect the basic human rights of a full grown human and want to call someone else on flawed logic… pot, kettle, black, anyone?
As to evolution, you don’t have to agree with its path for it to be proven and therefore true, no one said the species got smarter as it evolved, no one has made that claim, evolution tends toward strengthening certain genes and regressing others that are unnecessary for the survival of that particular species. So perhaps stupidity, vanity, bigotry and ignorance help the idiot human to prosper, who knows? But the simple fact that lednaVira doesn’t like the trend, doesn’t mean the trend doesn’t exist. I don’t like most of you other humans either and you still exist, damn the bad luck…
Chris McDaniel says:
September 22, 2011 at 2:38 pm
I don’t think you understand evolution. Many animals do not kill their own species. When they fight for territory, generally it primarily involves posturing. Interesting read for you would be Marc Hauser’s “Moral Minds: the nature of right and wrong.”. Hauser posits that most morality isn’t learned it is ingrained in you from birth. He makes a solid argument.
The death penalty in this country does not work. It does not deter crime. There are plenty of stats available to prove it. Plus, the system is run by humans. Its inherently flawed and biased. Executing even one person that is factually innocent is a travesty (see story of Cam Willingham in Texas, or google Randy Steidl). Not to mention that the cost of the trial and subsequent appeals is generally greater than paying to incarcerate someone for life without parole.
Nancy Papas says:
September 22, 2011 at 3:02 pm
With the ‘evolution’ of sentences to ‘life without the possibility of parole’, the death sentence is no longer needed. Previously those with life sentences sometimes were paroled after 20 or so years in prison, which spurred more interest in the death penalty. But that has changed with another sentencing option that protects the public from release of those who have committed heinous crimes.
Humans and human institutions are not perfect, so there will occasionally be wrongful convictions and wrongful killing of innocents. Why would Americans want to create situations where we have no ability to correct horrific mistakes? Who of the many ‘neutrals’ who might have stopped the execution would be willing to do the killing by their own hand?
September 22, 2011 at 3:14 pm
I think at this juncture I should note that I used the term ‘evolution’ metaphorically, not literally–and assumed that was obvious from the context.
Evidently, it was less obvious to some readers than I expected.
Doug says:
September 22, 2011 at 3:23 pm
It’s still fun to think about. Those traits that support survival until replication and replicating as extensively as possible are selected for. Traits that hinder survival until replication are selected against.
Traits that do neither are not affected.
JednaVira says:
September 22, 2011 at 4:07 pm
Tay, it explains a lot that you equate animals with human beings; I now understand why you don’t have a problem with abortion. Answer one question for me and then I’ll believe macro-evolution is true: Cite for me one example in biology where new genetic information was introduced? I can show you plenty of examples of “de-evolution” where genetic information is lost or remains the same, but never added.
Mr. McDaniel, interesting that you would say morality is “ingrained at birth.” Who put it there? What is it’s standard? Why don’t animals have it? I will agree with you that the death penalty, in it’s current form, does not deter in the sense of “general prevention”; at least not everyone. But it sure deters the person that committed the crime from ever doing it again, because the likelihood of a violent criminal being paroled and preying on another victim is high.
Dr X says:
September 23, 2011 at 10:25 am
“I don’t personally buy into the idea of evolution, but the I think your idea of evolution is completely off. Evolution doesn’t mean civilization, it means becoming a better predator or consumer. The logical result of evolution is more blood-lust and self-centered activity, because evolution would favor the survival, not self-sacrifice of the individual.”
Utterly false assumption. Evolution favors perpetuation of variations that confer reproductive advantage within the particular context those variations are expressed. Empathy, for example, inclines individuals toward mutual assistance and self-sacrifice. It cannot be assumed that a single rampaging individual, enjoys reproductive advantage over 100 individuals determined to protect one another.
Selfish, aggressive impulses AND inclinations toward empathy, self-sacrifice and love can contribute to species perpetuation depending upon the context in which they’re expressed.
Comments are closed.
Articles, editorials, papers and excerpts from books written by Sheila Kennedy.
Education / Youth
Local Government
Public Policy and Governance
Archives Select Month December 2022 November 2022 October 2022 September 2022 August 2022 July 2022 June 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 November 2008 September 2008 August 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 May 2002 April 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 September 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 January 2001 October 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 September 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 March 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 January 1998 December 1997 July 1997 May 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 October 1996 September 1996 May 1996 November 1995 May 1995 May 1994 November 1993 August 1993 July 1993 May 1993
| 13,433 |
Both the men’s and women’s swimming teams concluded their season this past Saturday, Feb. 23 when they wrapped up their four days of competition, finishing […]
Swimming Looks Towards SUNYAC Championship
February 7, 2019 Matt Schenfeld 0
After back-to-back victories over Purchase College and rival SUNY Oneonta, the Hawks men’s and women’s swimming teams traveled to Burt Flickinger pool at Erie Community […]
Swimming Resumes Season With Two Meet Wins
January 31, 2019 Matt Schenfeld 0
After a break of over a month from competition, the men’s and women’s swimming teams were back at it with victories over Purchase College on […]
| 631 |
Consequently, it has become evident that the four criteria standards of judgment by which the human mind reaches its conclusions (senses, intellect, traditional or scriptural and inspiration) are faulty and inaccurate. All of them are liable to mistake and error in conclusions. But a statement presented to the mind, accompanied by proofs which the senses can perceive to be correct, which the faculty of reason can accept, which is in accord with traditional authority and sanctioned by the promptings of the heart, can be adjudged and relied upon as perfectly correct, for it has been proved and tested by all the standards of judgment and found to be complete. When we apply but one test, there are possibilities of mistake. This is self-evident and manifest.
I pray God to lift the veil for thee and to corroborate by the spirit of experience, so that all may be evident to thee, by the Holy Spirit of God.
The criterion of the senses is not reliable. For instance, consider a mirror and the images reflected in it. These images have no actual corporeal existence. Yet if you had never seen a mirror, you would firmly insist and believe that they were real. The eye sees a mirage upon the desert as a lake of water, but there is no reality in it. As we stand upon the deck of a steamer, the shore appears to be moving, yet we know the land is stationary and we are moving. The earth was believed to be fixed and the sun revolving about it, but although this appears to be so, the reverse is now known to be true. A whirling torch makes a circle of fire appear before the eye, yet we realize there is but one point of light. We behold a shadow moving upon the ground, but it has no material existence, no substance. In deserts the atmospheric effects are particularly productive of illusions which deceive the eye. Once I saw a mirage in which a whole caravan appeared traveling upward into the sky. In the far North other deceptive phenomena appear and baffle human vision. Sometimes three or four suns, called by scientists mock suns, will be shining at the same time, whereas we know that the great solar orb is one and that it remains fixed and single. In brief, the senses are continually deceived, and we are unable to separate that which is reality from that which is not.
This is conclusive argument showing that all available human criteria are erroneous and defective . . . Therefore, man is not justified in saying, "I know because I perceive through my senses," or "I know because it is proved through my faculty of reason," or "I know because it is according to tradition and interpretation of the Holy Book," or "I know because I am inspired." All human standards of judgment are faulty, finite.
It can be helpful to consider that, on occasion, a believer may discover that a personal understanding differs to some degree from the teachings. How can it be otherwise, when our conceptions are forged in a social milieu that Bahá’u’lláh has come to radically transform? “An exact and thorough comprehension of so vast a system, so sublime a relation, so sacred a trust,” Shoghi Effendi reminds us, “is for obvious reasons beyond the reach and ken of our finite minds.” A sensible approach is simply to recognize that the human mind is both finite and fallible and that acquiring spiritual insight and greater understanding is a gradual and ever-unfolding process that requires time, continued study, reflection on action, and consultation with others. This perspective is quite different, however, from contending with or attempting to change explicit provisions of the Faith. Humility is required, rather than an insistence that one’s personal views at any given time are correct. . . Rather you are encouraged to keep an open mind and acknowledge, like every other Bahá’í, that there are elements of the Revelation that you are striving to understand more fully.
on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer, 22 April 2013
1 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z
Note: The materials on this site are an individual initiative, offered as an educational resource for Bahá’ís to consider as they strive to understand and implement the Writings into their lives, institutions and communities. Any questions about the application of certain quotes to your own particular situation should be directed to the Bahá’í institutions.
Official websites include www.bahai.org (International); www.bahai.ca (Canadian); www.bahai.us (American) and bahai.org.au (Australian)
| 4,744 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.