OK, here goes nothing. This piece isn’t terribly political, it isn’t even about US society, and it’s only remotely historical. It’s just my way of giving back to Heather and to all of you.
It’s an article that I just wrote inspired by how much fun I’m having and the joy I’m feeling, due in no small part to the time in Heather’s living room (this forum) chatting with all of you.
Jefferson references inspired by Lucian Truscott and Deborah Truscott. I am on Lucian‘s Substack site as well. Lucian and Deborah have family ties to Jefferson.
Hope you like it.
The Head and the Heart
“I never met a stranger.” Search it and the name Roy Rogers pops up. Whether or not he deserves the credit, the concept can be used as a measuring stick for your love quotient. I just made that up.
Love is a curious thing, as Huey Lewis and the News tell us. As our good friend Mr. Jefferson sought to remind us with the phrase “the pursuit of happiness,” we deserve the best. We deserve to be happy.
As the first-born American in my immediate family, and the eldest son, and the second American born here in our entire clan which is German on both sides, I am no stranger to High expectations. “Great judge,” that’s what my mother was thinking before I was even out yet. Supreme court justice, either state or federal, likely would’ve been fine.
And like every firstborn child in an immigrant family in America, I take my seriousness very seriously.
You could rightly accuse me of taking my seriousness too seriously.
But what about play? What about joy? What about wonder, delight, the love of adventure and learning, the exquisite appreciation of nature and art and so many other gifts bestowed upon us in this world?
What about the enjoyment of life?
One of Mr. Jefferson’s lifelong objectives, we could even argue it may have been his number one goal in life, was integrating the head and the heart. Unbeknownst to most of us, the heart is the seat of the human soul. The head is the seat of conscious awareness of self, but the heart is the radio station, the radio set, that if it is turned on allows one to receive the many different channels of love and life: awe and wonder and delight and gratitude and sweetness and affection.
When you’re having fun, all the world is a playground. Being dialed into the heart set is being dialed into life.
When you’re in a place of joy, everyone and everything looks beautiful.
When you’re happy, it’s very very hard to find a stranger.
Thank you, Roland, for sharin’ the love😊 Good stuff there. Did you know that the electrical component of the heart is 60 times that of the brain, and that the electromagnetic energy field of the heart is 5000 times than that of the brain?? The heart has a significant influence in the body down to the cellular level, and its energy field is felt by those around us. This information comes from Heart Math who has an excellent device for creating heart coherence.
Roland, you are proving all the more to be one of the people on here I'd "most like to sit down and have a beer with" (or whatever you might imbibe if you eschew alcohol...) and solve the problems of the world!
What you and the Truscotts talk about (oh...BTW, I got to meet and chat with THE Roy Rogers...a lovely man...another story another time) is something I share spiritually. Over 20 years ago I happened on the first of the "Conversations With God: An Uncommon Dialogue" by Neale Donald Walsch. I was going through what is best described as "Sh*t" in my life, some of the "what-am-I-doing-with-my-life" kind of stuff 40-somethings (or whenever) of a certain bent can put themselves through. I can safely say the book, and the ones that followed, totally changed my whole way of looking at "Life, the Universe, and Everything Else" (pace, Donald Adams). Let me state right off the bat that Walsch is most decidedly NOT religious at all in the traditional sense of the word. It is not at all preachy, or aligned with any particular religious philosophy. It’s actually kind of a synthesis of the best of a lot of the world’s faiths rolled into one. A more apt categorization some might think is some New Age-y, booey-oohey kind of mumbo-jumbo. It most decidedly is not, IMO. Anything, in my mind, that opens up another way of looking at things and makes one re-examine one’s own beliefs is a good thing. It’s healthy. A kind of spiritual “house-cleaning”. Walsch sort of plays a role of someone literally sitting down and talking with “God”, or whatever one might think of as “God”, and he then poses a ton of questions. Each one is answered with a minimum of words, concise, to the point. It mirrors some of my own questions I was asking at that point in my life. But, more importantly, “God” then asks questions in return. The answers, which revealed themselves to me, pointed me to another whole way of thinking and seeing my fellow beings on this planet.
Now--hoping I haven’t scared everybody off!--something so complex is difficult to summarize, but I’ll try. One of the basic ideas he discusses comprises the 3 things that make up “us”. The 3 things that govern/define “us” are: the HEAD…which is the mind, the intellect, the sum of all the knowledge we gain throughout our lives—a lot when you think about it; the BODY…which is purely our physical being, what we feel physically, our body’s wants, needs, frailties, etc.; and the HEART…the soul, the real essence of who we are, our spirit. All the attributes of these three things—mind, body, soul—vie for control of who we are. They're all interconnected. There is this jockeying going on for “us”. We “listen” to each of them in varying degrees through our lives and any one of them can guide “us” in the decisions we make about our lives. But, as “God” tries to tell us, the “soul”, the “heart”, is the single most important one and is the one that we ultimately have to listen to. It will NEVER steer us “wrong”. Our “soul” is that essence that truly is a part of “God”, this life force in the universe, and it is what unites “us” ALL. “God”, in essence, can be seen as the sum total of all the “souls”, the life forces, in the universe. (Yup, maybe even alien life forms elsewhere…) Every single human being on this planet is connected to each other via the soul. We are all one and the same. "We" are "God", and "God" is "us". When you start to see every single person as another part of “you”, it can start to change how you view and treat another person, because they are “you”. What “you” do to one,” you” are actually doing to “yourself”. It’s no accident that a common central tenet in almost all the world’s religions is: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” And it’s the one most ignored. How many of the world’s problems would be solved—I daresay all of them—if every single human on the planet truly practiced and believed this teaching. Think about it. Just…THINK ABOUT IT. It kinda all comes down to…love.
There is obviously a LOT of other stuff that Walsch and “God” explore and explain (there are several books of these “conversations”, but they’re not terribly long), but it is all so logical and quite beautiful and simple. I won’t bore everyone by going on further about it lest people think I’m trying to “convert” anyone—nothing could be further from the truth. But, what you mentioned above, Roland, touches on some things I have come to believe and try to practice in my own life, and, I admit, I don’t always succeed. Fortunately, for me, my own personal Christian faith allows me to think along these lines. It doesn’t force me to adhere to some ironclad doctrine. (I’ve discussed a lot of these things with my very free-thinking rector…) I’ve found, and continue to seek and find, all the myriad ways that everything ties together, and I appreciate that my church allows me to do that. We encourage regular dialogue with other faiths to try and understand some of what they believe. As my rector has said, “We ALL have questions. We are human beings after all. What we do here is we ALL ask our questions together, and we ALL proceed together along whatever path we choose to find our enlightenment.”
All of this is strictly my own personal beliefs and thoughts. In no way whatsoever would I ever impose what I think on someone else. I just do what I do how I do it, and by no means do I see myself as some sort of guide…good Lord, no! I throw it out there in case something in what I think or believe might resonate with someone else and help them try and figure some stuff out. Thanks, Roland…it’s all YOUR fault for getting me started…
what a lovely place and time to drop this thought, Roland, now that we all have a little breathing room, a little time to tune in to the joy and the Heart.
As the eldest child (but not of first generation American birth) I do know the expectations. I was also a terrible model, because I did nothing to prepare my parents for my younger sister, who was a double handful.
Dispositionally, I favor Mr. Rogers (Will and Mister) in that strangers are just friends I haven't met yet, and that there is a place for everyone at the table. (Where my sister and I are most similar is in our desire to feed people. I do it for small framily groups and she runs an all-volunteer community kitchen in Phoenix, OR). Her profession is grocery clerk, where she feeds the community at the base level; I am a semi retired (28 years full time and 7 years part time) in law enforcement.
I love what you've written about the heart. It resonates with me quite well.
AND you play tuba :) I see from your picture! I played for 8 years, as did two of my brothers. We used to carol with them door to door until the valves would freeze up. My brother who still plays (his son too!) hitchhiked home with a metal sousaphone he had bought from Crane Music Dept in Potsdam when they switched to fiberglass-- in February winter weather, a 2.5 hour trip, in record time... Stand in the road with a Bass and the cars can't get by, I guess! Now that's a way to meet people!
Thank you, Roland. Many of us have ignored the joy component over the last five years. To me, it seemed almost a sacrilege to stop and smell the roses when our country was burning. Gradually, the joy is coming back.
My Head My Heart: Sex , Love,Life and the Unconscious by Jorge DeGregorio is an exploration of Jefferson and William Jefferson Clinton. Very interesting analysis
Quite soothing, I have to say. Perhaps you could streamline the family history sentence.
Do you know this one? Alan Taylor, Thomas Jefferson's Education. Gifted from a cousin. In 2017 we visited UVA and read his name on the wall of his old room, which is common in the original quarters on The Lawn. My old dorm room (class of '78 not UVA) is still being fumigated ....
This is lovely , Roland. I'm wondering if you meant Will, not Roy, Rogers, who said "I never met a man I didn't like"? Maybe it's just a coincidence that another Rogers said a similar thing. And Fred Rogers would agree too. Anyway, the sentiment is a good one. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, having an open connection between the head and the heart was essential and it was considered outrageous to make any decision without consulting both and indeed, being sure they were talking to each other. A great acupoint to hold or tap to help open this flow is on the upper edge of your collarbone (clavicle) just about halfway between its meeting points with the sternum and shoulder joint.
Thank you for your meticulous attention to the facts; your painstaking effort to filter the unimportant and prioritize what’s left, and for your lovely closing photos of Maine. I canceled all news sources except NYT Sunday. I have had no TV for 14 years. You are now my only link to daily news. Brava!
Ha - we've always joked that we have to dust off the television when we turn it on. We've gotten used to HCR's talks on the larger screen (and better audio), but when we started watching, we discovered that the TV was an old enough generation that we needed to reconfigure (Thank goodness for engineers in the family). This year of Covid, I've watched live theatre and music streamed on the television with gratitude.
By Wednesday, I think that only 10% might have been vaccinated by then. (I am 1B category.) The past administration should have had this all planned and presented as a "template" to the states for execution and delivery of the vaccine. They should have had a call out to all the ex or retired pharmacists and laboratory Medical Technologists (like me) who are licensed to give injections, not just Dr's and nurses. So much missed opportunity and so many lost lives, but I am happy we are forging ahead now. I have a Newsletter on Substack, too, so I have a great appreciation for Heather's content, insight, and work ethic in keeping us on track.
For all out there that need something to lift them, put up a bird feeder! my husband did just that right by where i sit at my computer and now a whole joyful world of colorful and amusing winter birds have entered my life! First it was enough to identify them with the Peterson guide I happened to have on my bookshelf, now i am expanding my mind by learning the names and upping my game by the Merlin app, made by the brilliant birders at Cornell U. These little busy guys make me smile, laugh and gasp in wonder. Try it. Pure fun. And you wont feel lonely. Also, since i am offering unasked for advice, consider buying a Ukulele! Super easy to learn since it only has four strings. If you learn 4 or 5 chords you can play dozens of songs!!
My retirement gift to myself was a ukulele, and while our squirrel population makes bird feeders impossible, I have 5 hummingbird feeders that get quite a bit of traffic. I love the hummers! A dear friend and hs classmate has a huge bird feeding station and just the other day saw an orange finch for the first time.
a perfect gift for yourself! for your brain, your heart and your soul. i am not musical but i love music so it was an enormous surprise when i figured out i could play and even sing sort of in tune!
I haven’t found a way to have a bird feeder that the squirrels don’t attack. I suppose the type on a pole might work, but then it would be so far from the house, I wouldn’t be able to see the birds. Last summer, however, we put out two hummingbird feeders, which were a big success.
There are feeders called Squirrel busters that are quite effective against those Pesky rodents..I hung mine from my Mango tree with a clear dome baffle on top..No squirrels have been able to access it!!!...Yes, a pole works with a baffle below..as Long as you have at Least 12 feet around all sides clear of any plant/tree or device that a squirrel may use to jump to it...Actually it does Not have to be that far away from your house to prevent squirrel access...You can definitely see the birds very well..if you follow these guidelines..Just make sure to have Extra distance between your house/and feeder so they can't jump off the roof to it or any area of your house to the feeder..
We gave up on keeping the squirrels out, and truly, I enjoy watching the little rodents (the foxes have moved in on them, so there aren't too many, as well as no more neighborhood bunnies to speak of). Besides, if I don't feed them SOMETHING, they will eat my tulip bulbs out of the planters in a bad winter, and I like tulips. My husband came up with a solution that is keeping them out of the main feeder - we hung a plastic bucket near the tree trunk, with things squirrels eat. Watching them dive in head first, or sit in the bucket and munch away makes me laugh. And the cardinals have no objection to the bucket either, popping in and out to grab a seed/spit a shell/grab a seed.
You might try safflower seed in a feeder. Birds like it; squirrels generally do not. It can be a little messy beneath the feeder, but I put up with that to enjoy the birds.
That’s so disappointing, I know. I’ve had a few over the years that didn’t get the memo. My bird food specialty store rep told me that young squirrels sometimes eat safflower, but they generally grow out of it. That seems to have been true in my yard.
We have quite a few bird feeders! My husband, born and raised in the Bronx, is the ‘Birdman of Western Connecticut!’ We had some hummers last spring, and we bought one of those ‘hummingbird feeders’ with the red (?) stuff... never saw another one : (
I used to feed the hummers with a homemade solution - uncolored - but it just got so sticky and attracted a lot of ants to the house so I stopped. Instead, I have hanging pots of flowering plants (be sure to include ones with actual nectar) in colors that attract them that bloom from May to October. Petunias, verbena, nasturtiums are just a few easy to grow all season bloomers that they seem to like. They come at least once every day.
I had the ant problem, too, until I purchased an “ant moat” - a copper cup that hangs between the feeder and whatever it hangs from. A tiny bit of oil in the cup, just enough to coat inside, not where the birds can brush against it, and no more ants in/on the feeder. When bees from the neighborhood apiary decide to swarm the feeder, that’s another matter. But I just can’t be angry with bees.
Make your own! We use 1/4 cup sugar to one cup water and boil for one minute. The explanation I've read for the boiling is that it pastuerizes the solution, which doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, but it does seem to hold off the development of mold.
I've made my own hummer food for several years - the only reason I buy sugar!! My problem is the family of Orioles who apparently migrate here (?) in the spring & suck up the food. I think they have a nest in a nearby tree & then teach their kids where the goodies are. So have to have 2 feeders so the hummers get a chance to eat. I have a bunch of bee balm (hummers love it) too. Several years ago, I saw several sphinx moths in the bee balm - if you havent ever seen them - at first you think they are hummers - theyre BIG - was really exciting to see them. Only that one year - none since.
It is best to make your own hummingbird solution..The red colored solutions found in stores are not recommended because they have found the dye is deleterious to hummers..I make mine all the time...One tablespoon of regular table sugar to one cup of water..It Must be changed frequently otherwise bacteria/mold will grow that kills the hummers..Like someone mentioned, exact directions and precautions are found online..I have four regular Ruby throated Hummers in my yard here in S. FL..Other localities get more hummers and different types..The thing that is Great about migrant birds is they Remember your yard if it is set up for them and return Every year (the same birds.)..They have excellent memories..Of course I get my residential birds All year..as they are not migratory...
Absolutely!!!..They are a true Joy..I have turned my yard into a bird/butterfly sanctuary..I learned all the plants/flowers in my area to grow that are bird/butterfly attractors..and planted them..I provide lots of cover for birds and multiple bird baths as well as seven feeders around my house..I also hang hummingbird feeders to provide nectar solution during the season they are here..I get colorful birds many don't even know about..It is So peaceful watching them..All I have to do is look out my windowsl..I also took up photography to record what I see and travel all around my South FL area to seek beautiful birds in their native habitat..The best thing IS this is a hobby you can do alone in our pandemic situation..and being out in nature brings peace..because it hard not to stay in the present moment with so much beauty all around....I also belong to the local chapter of the National Audubon Society..I believe all major cities in the USA have their own chapters..When we don't have a pandemic situation we have group birding trips every week end..visiting so Many beautiful parks in S. FL looking for birds..even rare birds that happen to be in our area..Many of our group (open to the public free of charge)..travel to areas of the world on birding trips...So amazing!
I agree, Laurie. I put feeders out every morning (cant leave them - ("someone" tends to knock them down) But taking them out every morning & bringing them in at night, while I take corn out to larger wildlife makes me exercise. And like you I so enjoy all of these creatures. Plus my dog & cat who live with me. Wouldnt be the same without any of them. The ukulele? Not my cup of tea but I'm sure there are many of us who would enjoy it.
This has happen for me too. Being home has given me the opportunity to enjoy the art of birdwatching. I’ve purchased for feeders and different seeds, even some squirrel food yesterday. I’ve had as many as 8-9 cardinals at time feeding. It’s brought a lot of joy. I do have a ukulele in my closet too. Maybe I’ll dig it out. I’ve been using SimplyPiano app to learn how to play the piano. Maybe I’ll look for a similar app for The Uke 😀
get that uke out!! its endless joy. start with learning This Land is Your Land ...three simple chords! have fun!! also, grabbing pics of the birds is another pursuit...i could do it all day. 8 cardinals you are sooo lucky...i have a pair here i have named lucy and ricky!
If you are in a cold climate, think about investing in a heated bird bath. It’s way better than tv and necessary for bird survival. Great to know about the Merlin app.
This is NOT a paid advertisement! I don’t have a ukelele. However, if you get one and want to learn to play it, contact Jamie Anderson @ her website jamieanderson.com. She teaches online and is amazing.
Laurie, have you given names to the birds you watch. Perhaps a raven could be called Poe. How about a black capped chickadee, the state bird of Maine and Massachusetts, would be named Heather(for our leader HCR), etc.
Are you learning the ukulele from a book or YouTube videos or an app?
I’ve thought of buying one.
I’ve had a harmonica sitting on a bookshelf for years that I think one of my sons bought when he was a teenager and I keep meaning to look for instructional videos online.
Either of these would be a fun diversion from the news.
all of the above...plus i wrote a book (let)! called "Go buy a Ukulele" to help get all my friends started. Would love to send you one if you want help getting started... its free and for beginners.
Wow. Buddy’s photo is aureus. The word I used was “glorious“ but aureus as in golden will work just as well. Sometimes voice-to-text will give you magical results
We too could get used to the current pace and tone, as the new President and team pursue their ambitious and constructive goals. By the way, as a retired marine biologist, I find Buddy's photo of the moon shining over the Atlantic welcoming and spectacular!
I used to really enjoy working graveyard shifts during summer and winter full moons. There is really something magical about them.
It is also true (whether causal or correlational is up to debate) that it does tend to get a bit busier during those times. I could wish we were all more connected to the natural world, and revel in the seasons, the seasonal change, the celestial world, etc.
Even though I’m a devout urban dweller, I take every opportunity to spend time either in the woods or the garden. Nearly every day from early spring to early fall, there is some good reason to be in the dirt, in the wind, near the trees. And when mother nature has business to do and the wind and rain keep me indoors, there is a hybrid variation on the Mountain & Tree poses (Yoga Asanas) that grounds and connects one to nature. Even if you don’t practice Yoga, the Mountain Pose is relatively easy to do – and very rewarding.
:) Actually the full moon affects us in many ways...more births around the full moon; caregivers say patients are more restless on the full moon etc. Sleep studies have shown we are less likely to get into deep sleep at the full moon. Gravitational pull of the moon and sun causes ocean tides. Sixty percent of our body is water. Blood is mostly water and plasma contains salt that is similar to sea water. Given all this, I would say there is a connection between us and the full moon :) Look up origin of 'lunatic'.
NOTE: Many cultures name the full moon(s) each month. The 'wolf' moon followed by Snow (Feb) Worm (March) Pink (Apr)..etc. full moon names according to the Farmer's Almanac from Native Am. moon naming traditions.
I'm back on the road today heading to the house in Provence. My mother-in-law died on Friday...of isolation and old age in her totally closed-up, fortress-like Residential Home. They thought that the walls kept out the virus...it also stopped all visits! She was 95 and she was collateral damage of the covid panic procedures.
Stuart, I am so sorry . My Dad passed on Jan 5. More than likely he too just gave up after this year of nothingness. He was an active man, both of mind and physicality, he hated the isolation. Thankfully he was in his home and snug in his bed when his heart stopped. I grieve with you and all of us who have lost those we love this sad, dark year. Be strong, I am trying
Stuart, I'm sorry the trip to Provence is a sad one. And your words reflect the sadness we all share for those lost to the virus or the residual affects of it. Bless you and your family.
Healing thoughts going out to you and your family during this sad time Stuart. Safe travels and stay well. There is so much collateral damage coming out of this past year.
Deepest condolences to you and your wife. One of the many difficult things about this past year is that friends and families can’t gather for celebrations of lives lost and memorial services. May your memories of your mother-in-law be a blessing.
Side note: My mother, who lives in elderly housing but leaves to run errands and weekly visits with me, keeps telling me how horrible the isolation has been for her friends who have not left their tiny apartments in months. They all go their first vaccine shot today...
Condolences to you & your family. I worry about my 94 year old mother for this reason too. Although, she has been telling me for years that she's ready to go & didn't plan on living so long. My brother & sil think the isolation caused her dad's death too. The mental deterioration of the elderly has been appalling.
Oh dear, Stuart, I am so sorry. There is nothing that can ease the pain of loss of your mom. Mine has been gone for 21 years now and I think of her every day. I hope the memories of her bring you some comfort.
Oh, Stuart, I'm so sorry. My mother died in 2004, and I often think that I'm glad she didn't live to see the last five years. She was a WWII USMC vet, and she would have been heart-broken.
It is nice that there were so many stars visible in the sky on a full-moonlit night, thanks to apparently no light pollution. Please thank Buddy for the restful image.
I agree! Beyond schadenfreude! I know it's dishonorable to feel such glee at the dissolution of a victim of mental illness, but his illness is *malignant* on a World-Historical level. Gotta clear my schedule to be able to watch the Senate trial; sounds increasingly like it might be the best TV since Sam Ervin.
Thanks for your ongoing calm, fact-based approach to these times. You letter yesterday was especially helpful, pointing out how the Biden Admin isn't "playing the game". I continue to be concerned with things like a report on CNN tonight that just seems to try to stir the pot, making supposed news out of no actual story or focusing on the arguments, not the issues. I got my Journalism degree at the U of Minn in 1965. What happened to the rules we were taught about what constitutes a story. There's probably a story in this for you, when did the media ownership give up on Journalistic Standards? Sorry, that's my rant and I'm sticking to it.
Lovely photo. Lovely group and interesting comments. It’s a misty morning here in Wales. Last night the moon came up over the mountain and brought a howling wind over our stone house and down to the sea. The moons tranquility was soothing and the tumultuous air washed everything away and I finally slept the deep sleep of no dreams. 🌕🌖🌗🌘🌑
Welcome, Joan! I think because we can now go back to our normal dose of heart medicine...If we're honest,no matter where we find ourselves politically/culturally/emotionally/spiritually; we're all appreciating the reprieve :)
Just commenting yesterday to an old friend—I flip open the cover on my iPad first thing after fixing my coffee... and there is ... nothing. No news teasers! Glorious nothing!
Heather, may your well-deserved rest be peaceful. I pass along a little “historical” background on sea chanties, along with performances by some creative TikTok musicians. I thought you and Buddy might enjoy them. But a warning: they can become relentless ear-worms!
Thanks, Laura! My heart soared when I learned that sea chanteys are, deservedly, a thing now. Many happy memories of singing some of the best with family and then at the Griswold Inn in CT. Good times!
I loved this! I subscribe to The Conversation, but had missed this story. Particularly enjoyable and poignant at a time when I am missing being in Maine and near the sea. I have never subscribed to TikTok (is that what one does? Subscribe?), but this tempts me to do so, just so that I can watch more people singing chanties.
OK, here goes nothing. This piece isn’t terribly political, it isn’t even about US society, and it’s only remotely historical. It’s just my way of giving back to Heather and to all of you.
It’s an article that I just wrote inspired by how much fun I’m having and the joy I’m feeling, due in no small part to the time in Heather’s living room (this forum) chatting with all of you.
Jefferson references inspired by Lucian Truscott and Deborah Truscott. I am on Lucian‘s Substack site as well. Lucian and Deborah have family ties to Jefferson.
Hope you like it.
The Head and the Heart
“I never met a stranger.” Search it and the name Roy Rogers pops up. Whether or not he deserves the credit, the concept can be used as a measuring stick for your love quotient. I just made that up.
Love is a curious thing, as Huey Lewis and the News tell us. As our good friend Mr. Jefferson sought to remind us with the phrase “the pursuit of happiness,” we deserve the best. We deserve to be happy.
As the first-born American in my immediate family, and the eldest son, and the second American born here in our entire clan which is German on both sides, I am no stranger to High expectations. “Great judge,” that’s what my mother was thinking before I was even out yet. Supreme court justice, either state or federal, likely would’ve been fine.
And like every firstborn child in an immigrant family in America, I take my seriousness very seriously.
You could rightly accuse me of taking my seriousness too seriously.
But what about play? What about joy? What about wonder, delight, the love of adventure and learning, the exquisite appreciation of nature and art and so many other gifts bestowed upon us in this world?
What about the enjoyment of life?
One of Mr. Jefferson’s lifelong objectives, we could even argue it may have been his number one goal in life, was integrating the head and the heart. Unbeknownst to most of us, the heart is the seat of the human soul. The head is the seat of conscious awareness of self, but the heart is the radio station, the radio set, that if it is turned on allows one to receive the many different channels of love and life: awe and wonder and delight and gratitude and sweetness and affection.
When you’re having fun, all the world is a playground. Being dialed into the heart set is being dialed into life.
When you’re in a place of joy, everyone and everything looks beautiful.
When you’re happy, it’s very very hard to find a stranger.
Welcome to the Heart.
Welcome to the Divine Feminine.
Welcome to our dear Mother Earth.
🦋🌎🦚☘️🌺🥰🧑🎤
Thank you, Roland, for sharin’ the love😊 Good stuff there. Did you know that the electrical component of the heart is 60 times that of the brain, and that the electromagnetic energy field of the heart is 5000 times than that of the brain?? The heart has a significant influence in the body down to the cellular level, and its energy field is felt by those around us. This information comes from Heart Math who has an excellent device for creating heart coherence.
HeartMath info is amazing...
Roland, you are proving all the more to be one of the people on here I'd "most like to sit down and have a beer with" (or whatever you might imbibe if you eschew alcohol...) and solve the problems of the world!
What you and the Truscotts talk about (oh...BTW, I got to meet and chat with THE Roy Rogers...a lovely man...another story another time) is something I share spiritually. Over 20 years ago I happened on the first of the "Conversations With God: An Uncommon Dialogue" by Neale Donald Walsch. I was going through what is best described as "Sh*t" in my life, some of the "what-am-I-doing-with-my-life" kind of stuff 40-somethings (or whenever) of a certain bent can put themselves through. I can safely say the book, and the ones that followed, totally changed my whole way of looking at "Life, the Universe, and Everything Else" (pace, Donald Adams). Let me state right off the bat that Walsch is most decidedly NOT religious at all in the traditional sense of the word. It is not at all preachy, or aligned with any particular religious philosophy. It’s actually kind of a synthesis of the best of a lot of the world’s faiths rolled into one. A more apt categorization some might think is some New Age-y, booey-oohey kind of mumbo-jumbo. It most decidedly is not, IMO. Anything, in my mind, that opens up another way of looking at things and makes one re-examine one’s own beliefs is a good thing. It’s healthy. A kind of spiritual “house-cleaning”. Walsch sort of plays a role of someone literally sitting down and talking with “God”, or whatever one might think of as “God”, and he then poses a ton of questions. Each one is answered with a minimum of words, concise, to the point. It mirrors some of my own questions I was asking at that point in my life. But, more importantly, “God” then asks questions in return. The answers, which revealed themselves to me, pointed me to another whole way of thinking and seeing my fellow beings on this planet.
Now--hoping I haven’t scared everybody off!--something so complex is difficult to summarize, but I’ll try. One of the basic ideas he discusses comprises the 3 things that make up “us”. The 3 things that govern/define “us” are: the HEAD…which is the mind, the intellect, the sum of all the knowledge we gain throughout our lives—a lot when you think about it; the BODY…which is purely our physical being, what we feel physically, our body’s wants, needs, frailties, etc.; and the HEART…the soul, the real essence of who we are, our spirit. All the attributes of these three things—mind, body, soul—vie for control of who we are. They're all interconnected. There is this jockeying going on for “us”. We “listen” to each of them in varying degrees through our lives and any one of them can guide “us” in the decisions we make about our lives. But, as “God” tries to tell us, the “soul”, the “heart”, is the single most important one and is the one that we ultimately have to listen to. It will NEVER steer us “wrong”. Our “soul” is that essence that truly is a part of “God”, this life force in the universe, and it is what unites “us” ALL. “God”, in essence, can be seen as the sum total of all the “souls”, the life forces, in the universe. (Yup, maybe even alien life forms elsewhere…) Every single human being on this planet is connected to each other via the soul. We are all one and the same. "We" are "God", and "God" is "us". When you start to see every single person as another part of “you”, it can start to change how you view and treat another person, because they are “you”. What “you” do to one,” you” are actually doing to “yourself”. It’s no accident that a common central tenet in almost all the world’s religions is: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” And it’s the one most ignored. How many of the world’s problems would be solved—I daresay all of them—if every single human on the planet truly practiced and believed this teaching. Think about it. Just…THINK ABOUT IT. It kinda all comes down to…love.
There is obviously a LOT of other stuff that Walsch and “God” explore and explain (there are several books of these “conversations”, but they’re not terribly long), but it is all so logical and quite beautiful and simple. I won’t bore everyone by going on further about it lest people think I’m trying to “convert” anyone—nothing could be further from the truth. But, what you mentioned above, Roland, touches on some things I have come to believe and try to practice in my own life, and, I admit, I don’t always succeed. Fortunately, for me, my own personal Christian faith allows me to think along these lines. It doesn’t force me to adhere to some ironclad doctrine. (I’ve discussed a lot of these things with my very free-thinking rector…) I’ve found, and continue to seek and find, all the myriad ways that everything ties together, and I appreciate that my church allows me to do that. We encourage regular dialogue with other faiths to try and understand some of what they believe. As my rector has said, “We ALL have questions. We are human beings after all. What we do here is we ALL ask our questions together, and we ALL proceed together along whatever path we choose to find our enlightenment.”
All of this is strictly my own personal beliefs and thoughts. In no way whatsoever would I ever impose what I think on someone else. I just do what I do how I do it, and by no means do I see myself as some sort of guide…good Lord, no! I throw it out there in case something in what I think or believe might resonate with someone else and help them try and figure some stuff out. Thanks, Roland…it’s all YOUR fault for getting me started…
That's a chakra that's well and truly opened!
what a lovely place and time to drop this thought, Roland, now that we all have a little breathing room, a little time to tune in to the joy and the Heart.
As the eldest child (but not of first generation American birth) I do know the expectations. I was also a terrible model, because I did nothing to prepare my parents for my younger sister, who was a double handful.
Dispositionally, I favor Mr. Rogers (Will and Mister) in that strangers are just friends I haven't met yet, and that there is a place for everyone at the table. (Where my sister and I are most similar is in our desire to feed people. I do it for small framily groups and she runs an all-volunteer community kitchen in Phoenix, OR). Her profession is grocery clerk, where she feeds the community at the base level; I am a semi retired (28 years full time and 7 years part time) in law enforcement.
I love what you've written about the heart. It resonates with me quite well.
AND you play tuba :) I see from your picture! I played for 8 years, as did two of my brothers. We used to carol with them door to door until the valves would freeze up. My brother who still plays (his son too!) hitchhiked home with a metal sousaphone he had bought from Crane Music Dept in Potsdam when they switched to fiberglass-- in February winter weather, a 2.5 hour trip, in record time... Stand in the road with a Bass and the cars can't get by, I guess! Now that's a way to meet people!
SUNY Potsdam. class of 1970 here. It was the coldest place on earth.
Don’t forget Steve Rogers (Captain America)!
Roland, your writing skills are terrific. Integrating head and heart...I like it!
Thank you, Roland. Many of us have ignored the joy component over the last five years. To me, it seemed almost a sacrilege to stop and smell the roses when our country was burning. Gradually, the joy is coming back.
"I never met a man I didn't like." Will Rogers.
I could introduce him to some people...
"I never liked a man I didn't meet" Dorothy Parker
Wasn't quote also a May West saying?
I don't think so. I looked up famous quotes by her on the internet, and this wasn't one of them . But many are very funny!
Okay, James. Here is one by May West: "I was once pure as the driven snow. But I drifted."
My Head My Heart: Sex , Love,Life and the Unconscious by Jorge DeGregorio is an exploration of Jefferson and William Jefferson Clinton. Very interesting analysis
Wonderful! And so true! <3
Quite soothing, I have to say. Perhaps you could streamline the family history sentence.
Do you know this one? Alan Taylor, Thomas Jefferson's Education. Gifted from a cousin. In 2017 we visited UVA and read his name on the wall of his old room, which is common in the original quarters on The Lawn. My old dorm room (class of '78 not UVA) is still being fumigated ....
Thanks, Stinky!
It was a roommate.
This is lovely , Roland. I'm wondering if you meant Will, not Roy, Rogers, who said "I never met a man I didn't like"? Maybe it's just a coincidence that another Rogers said a similar thing. And Fred Rogers would agree too. Anyway, the sentiment is a good one. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, having an open connection between the head and the heart was essential and it was considered outrageous to make any decision without consulting both and indeed, being sure they were talking to each other. A great acupoint to hold or tap to help open this flow is on the upper edge of your collarbone (clavicle) just about halfway between its meeting points with the sternum and shoulder joint.
Thank you for good thoughts to start the day.
Thank you for your meticulous attention to the facts; your painstaking effort to filter the unimportant and prioritize what’s left, and for your lovely closing photos of Maine. I canceled all news sources except NYT Sunday. I have had no TV for 14 years. You are now my only link to daily news. Brava!
Heather, NY Times and no TV...that's me too!
No tv! Haven’t used one in years and life is so much better.
We stream movies only. No tv for years. Makes for a much happier life.
No tv since 2008....prefer to watch movies in the theater and so I wait... :)
No boob tube from 2008-2018
I've never owned a TV, and haven't missed it!
TV with mute button engaged!
Mute and fast forward buttons! Which have been used a LOT past 4 years.
Ditto on no TV. Comfortable silence almost all the time here.
Me, too❣️
Ha - we've always joked that we have to dust off the television when we turn it on. We've gotten used to HCR's talks on the larger screen (and better audio), but when we started watching, we discovered that the TV was an old enough generation that we needed to reconfigure (Thank goodness for engineers in the family). This year of Covid, I've watched live theatre and music streamed on the television with gratitude.
Love your photo and the fact that the USA is calm. Not to mention I am getting my Pfizer vaccine on Wednesday. Feels like I won the lottery.
By Wednesday, I think that only 10% might have been vaccinated by then. (I am 1B category.) The past administration should have had this all planned and presented as a "template" to the states for execution and delivery of the vaccine. They should have had a call out to all the ex or retired pharmacists and laboratory Medical Technologists (like me) who are licensed to give injections, not just Dr's and nurses. So much missed opportunity and so many lost lives, but I am happy we are forging ahead now. I have a Newsletter on Substack, too, so I have a great appreciation for Heather's content, insight, and work ethic in keeping us on track.
Yay for you!!!
Thanks, Cynthia. My 94 year old Mom got hers on Friday. So relieved!
Oh yes! Such a great day that will be! You are twice blessed!
My 96 year old mother got hers this afternoon(Sunday). What a relief is right!
When you rest, we rest easier.
♥️
Ahh, that sounds nice!
For all out there that need something to lift them, put up a bird feeder! my husband did just that right by where i sit at my computer and now a whole joyful world of colorful and amusing winter birds have entered my life! First it was enough to identify them with the Peterson guide I happened to have on my bookshelf, now i am expanding my mind by learning the names and upping my game by the Merlin app, made by the brilliant birders at Cornell U. These little busy guys make me smile, laugh and gasp in wonder. Try it. Pure fun. And you wont feel lonely. Also, since i am offering unasked for advice, consider buying a Ukulele! Super easy to learn since it only has four strings. If you learn 4 or 5 chords you can play dozens of songs!!
My retirement gift to myself was a ukulele, and while our squirrel population makes bird feeders impossible, I have 5 hummingbird feeders that get quite a bit of traffic. I love the hummers! A dear friend and hs classmate has a huge bird feeding station and just the other day saw an orange finch for the first time.
a perfect gift for yourself! for your brain, your heart and your soul. i am not musical but i love music so it was an enormous surprise when i figured out i could play and even sing sort of in tune!
Your positivity is infectious. Thank you
The late Izzy, a Native Hawai'ian, "ukes" as well as anyone, and better than most.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1bFr2SWP1I
True, TPJ! But my favorite is probably Jake Shimabukuro (links to While My Guitar Gently Weeps & Bohemian Rhapsody below).
I haven’t found a way to have a bird feeder that the squirrels don’t attack. I suppose the type on a pole might work, but then it would be so far from the house, I wouldn’t be able to see the birds. Last summer, however, we put out two hummingbird feeders, which were a big success.
There are feeders called Squirrel busters that are quite effective against those Pesky rodents..I hung mine from my Mango tree with a clear dome baffle on top..No squirrels have been able to access it!!!...Yes, a pole works with a baffle below..as Long as you have at Least 12 feet around all sides clear of any plant/tree or device that a squirrel may use to jump to it...Actually it does Not have to be that far away from your house to prevent squirrel access...You can definitely see the birds very well..if you follow these guidelines..Just make sure to have Extra distance between your house/and feeder so they can't jump off the roof to it or any area of your house to the feeder..
We gave up on keeping the squirrels out, and truly, I enjoy watching the little rodents (the foxes have moved in on them, so there aren't too many, as well as no more neighborhood bunnies to speak of). Besides, if I don't feed them SOMETHING, they will eat my tulip bulbs out of the planters in a bad winter, and I like tulips. My husband came up with a solution that is keeping them out of the main feeder - we hung a plastic bucket near the tree trunk, with things squirrels eat. Watching them dive in head first, or sit in the bucket and munch away makes me laugh. And the cardinals have no objection to the bucket either, popping in and out to grab a seed/spit a shell/grab a seed.
You might try safflower seed in a feeder. Birds like it; squirrels generally do not. It can be a little messy beneath the feeder, but I put up with that to enjoy the birds.
Our squirrels eat safflower seeds. Argh
That’s so disappointing, I know. I’ve had a few over the years that didn’t get the memo. My bird food specialty store rep told me that young squirrels sometimes eat safflower, but they generally grow out of it. That seems to have been true in my yard.
I’ll try that!
We have quite a few bird feeders! My husband, born and raised in the Bronx, is the ‘Birdman of Western Connecticut!’ We had some hummers last spring, and we bought one of those ‘hummingbird feeders’ with the red (?) stuff... never saw another one : (
Any suggestions?!
I used to feed the hummers with a homemade solution - uncolored - but it just got so sticky and attracted a lot of ants to the house so I stopped. Instead, I have hanging pots of flowering plants (be sure to include ones with actual nectar) in colors that attract them that bloom from May to October. Petunias, verbena, nasturtiums are just a few easy to grow all season bloomers that they seem to like. They come at least once every day.
I had the ant problem, too, until I purchased an “ant moat” - a copper cup that hangs between the feeder and whatever it hangs from. A tiny bit of oil in the cup, just enough to coat inside, not where the birds can brush against it, and no more ants in/on the feeder. When bees from the neighborhood apiary decide to swarm the feeder, that’s another matter. But I just can’t be angry with bees.
The hummers also eat the ants, not that that helps.
Fabulous! I will try to coax them inside!
We're in the tropics so bird feeders of any sort are almost impossible.
Sorry to hear about the ant problem -- that's icky. The hummers like my fuchsias -- both the hanging baskets and the hardy fuchsias.
I can’t wait for spring!
Make your own! We use 1/4 cup sugar to one cup water and boil for one minute. The explanation I've read for the boiling is that it pastuerizes the solution, which doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, but it does seem to hold off the development of mold.
I've made my own hummer food for several years - the only reason I buy sugar!! My problem is the family of Orioles who apparently migrate here (?) in the spring & suck up the food. I think they have a nest in a nearby tree & then teach their kids where the goodies are. So have to have 2 feeders so the hummers get a chance to eat. I have a bunch of bee balm (hummers love it) too. Several years ago, I saw several sphinx moths in the bee balm - if you havent ever seen them - at first you think they are hummers - theyre BIG - was really exciting to see them. Only that one year - none since.
Oh -- and plant red flowers under the feeder!
Audubon Society agrees with Ruth. https://www.audubon.org/news/how-make-hummingbird-nectar
It is best to make your own hummingbird solution..The red colored solutions found in stores are not recommended because they have found the dye is deleterious to hummers..I make mine all the time...One tablespoon of regular table sugar to one cup of water..It Must be changed frequently otherwise bacteria/mold will grow that kills the hummers..Like someone mentioned, exact directions and precautions are found online..I have four regular Ruby throated Hummers in my yard here in S. FL..Other localities get more hummers and different types..The thing that is Great about migrant birds is they Remember your yard if it is set up for them and return Every year (the same birds.)..They have excellent memories..Of course I get my residential birds All year..as they are not migratory...
Correction..It is 1/4 cup refined sugar to 1 cup water for hummers...
Yes, use refined white sugar, not natural or organic sugar. I can’t remember exactly why that is, however.
I would love to share who was hanging out with us for the season! Birds are My Buddies. (Birds for HRC resized)
They are particular about the sugar water in the feeder. It has to be changed every couple of days. There is a lot of information online.
The past couple years I dont have to remember to change it - they empty the bottle - sometimes several times a week (the Orioles, that is)
Thanks!
For you ukulele fans, I understand that the word ukulele is actually pronounced "oo-ka-kay-lee."
My husband gave me a ukulele for Christmas. I gave him a guitar.
And now you are making beautiful music together!!❤️
Well, beautiful noise maybe!!
Absolutely!!!..They are a true Joy..I have turned my yard into a bird/butterfly sanctuary..I learned all the plants/flowers in my area to grow that are bird/butterfly attractors..and planted them..I provide lots of cover for birds and multiple bird baths as well as seven feeders around my house..I also hang hummingbird feeders to provide nectar solution during the season they are here..I get colorful birds many don't even know about..It is So peaceful watching them..All I have to do is look out my windowsl..I also took up photography to record what I see and travel all around my South FL area to seek beautiful birds in their native habitat..The best thing IS this is a hobby you can do alone in our pandemic situation..and being out in nature brings peace..because it hard not to stay in the present moment with so much beauty all around....I also belong to the local chapter of the National Audubon Society..I believe all major cities in the USA have their own chapters..When we don't have a pandemic situation we have group birding trips every week end..visiting so Many beautiful parks in S. FL looking for birds..even rare birds that happen to be in our area..Many of our group (open to the public free of charge)..travel to areas of the world on birding trips...So amazing!
I agree, Laurie. I put feeders out every morning (cant leave them - ("someone" tends to knock them down) But taking them out every morning & bringing them in at night, while I take corn out to larger wildlife makes me exercise. And like you I so enjoy all of these creatures. Plus my dog & cat who live with me. Wouldnt be the same without any of them. The ukulele? Not my cup of tea but I'm sure there are many of us who would enjoy it.
This has happen for me too. Being home has given me the opportunity to enjoy the art of birdwatching. I’ve purchased for feeders and different seeds, even some squirrel food yesterday. I’ve had as many as 8-9 cardinals at time feeding. It’s brought a lot of joy. I do have a ukulele in my closet too. Maybe I’ll dig it out. I’ve been using SimplyPiano app to learn how to play the piano. Maybe I’ll look for a similar app for The Uke 😀
get that uke out!! its endless joy. start with learning This Land is Your Land ...three simple chords! have fun!! also, grabbing pics of the birds is another pursuit...i could do it all day. 8 cardinals you are sooo lucky...i have a pair here i have named lucy and ricky!
If you are in a cold climate, think about investing in a heated bird bath. It’s way better than tv and necessary for bird survival. Great to know about the Merlin app.
This is NOT a paid advertisement! I don’t have a ukelele. However, if you get one and want to learn to play it, contact Jamie Anderson @ her website jamieanderson.com. She teaches online and is amazing.
Laurie, have you given names to the birds you watch. Perhaps a raven could be called Poe. How about a black capped chickadee, the state bird of Maine and Massachusetts, would be named Heather(for our leader HCR), etc.
Ukelele! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X14uoDci-rA
My favorite... One of the best.
Jake Shimabukuro. While My Guitar Gently Weeps & Bohemian Rhapsody
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gaWuadgL3g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYhcN8p4yhg
I hope you enjoy.
Wow!!
Are you learning the ukulele from a book or YouTube videos or an app?
I’ve thought of buying one.
I’ve had a harmonica sitting on a bookshelf for years that I think one of my sons bought when he was a teenager and I keep meaning to look for instructional videos online.
Either of these would be a fun diversion from the news.
all of the above...plus i wrote a book (let)! called "Go buy a Ukulele" to help get all my friends started. Would love to send you one if you want help getting started... its free and for beginners.
Wow. Buddy’s photo is aureus. The word I used was “glorious“ but aureus as in golden will work just as well. Sometimes voice-to-text will give you magical results
While Maine is covered with snow,
in Texas the powerful winds blow,
And today it hit 70 and was warm,
So we walked off our tensions, pre-storm.
Thanks to those commenting. Amazing group of people gathered together by honest, documented information from Heather. What a blessing for truth!
We too could get used to the current pace and tone, as the new President and team pursue their ambitious and constructive goals. By the way, as a retired marine biologist, I find Buddy's photo of the moon shining over the Atlantic welcoming and spectacular!
One of the best. Or maybe I'm just fond of full moons ...
I used to really enjoy working graveyard shifts during summer and winter full moons. There is really something magical about them.
It is also true (whether causal or correlational is up to debate) that it does tend to get a bit busier during those times. I could wish we were all more connected to the natural world, and revel in the seasons, the seasonal change, the celestial world, etc.
Ally, I couldn’t agree more.
Even though I’m a devout urban dweller, I take every opportunity to spend time either in the woods or the garden. Nearly every day from early spring to early fall, there is some good reason to be in the dirt, in the wind, near the trees. And when mother nature has business to do and the wind and rain keep me indoors, there is a hybrid variation on the Mountain & Tree poses (Yoga Asanas) that grounds and connects one to nature. Even if you don’t practice Yoga, the Mountain Pose is relatively easy to do – and very rewarding.
The 'wolf' moon
Is that why I often rise at 4am on a full moon? Hour of the wolf?
:) Actually the full moon affects us in many ways...more births around the full moon; caregivers say patients are more restless on the full moon etc. Sleep studies have shown we are less likely to get into deep sleep at the full moon. Gravitational pull of the moon and sun causes ocean tides. Sixty percent of our body is water. Blood is mostly water and plasma contains salt that is similar to sea water. Given all this, I would say there is a connection between us and the full moon :) Look up origin of 'lunatic'.
NOTE: Many cultures name the full moon(s) each month. The 'wolf' moon followed by Snow (Feb) Worm (March) Pink (Apr)..etc. full moon names according to the Farmer's Almanac from Native Am. moon naming traditions.
This is one of the things I love best about living near the Maine Coast. The moon shining through the trees, on the water...What a beautiful Photo.
I'm back on the road today heading to the house in Provence. My mother-in-law died on Friday...of isolation and old age in her totally closed-up, fortress-like Residential Home. They thought that the walls kept out the virus...it also stopped all visits! She was 95 and she was collateral damage of the covid panic procedures.
Stuart, I am so sorry . My Dad passed on Jan 5. More than likely he too just gave up after this year of nothingness. He was an active man, both of mind and physicality, he hated the isolation. Thankfully he was in his home and snug in his bed when his heart stopped. I grieve with you and all of us who have lost those we love this sad, dark year. Be strong, I am trying
Regina, deepest sympathy for you and yours.
The isolation that often accompanies old age is difficult enough – Corona is a horror. I am sorry for your loss.
Stuart, I'm sorry the trip to Provence is a sad one. And your words reflect the sadness we all share for those lost to the virus or the residual affects of it. Bless you and your family.
Healing thoughts going out to you and your family during this sad time Stuart. Safe travels and stay well. There is so much collateral damage coming out of this past year.
I’m sorry for your loss. May her memory be a blessing.
Sorry for the loss but happy that your mother lived a long life and you have had so much time to spend with her.
Désolé pour votre perte.
Oh, Stuart, I'm so sorry.
Deepest condolences to you and your wife. One of the many difficult things about this past year is that friends and families can’t gather for celebrations of lives lost and memorial services. May your memories of your mother-in-law be a blessing.
Perpetual light shine upon her.
Blessings, Stuart.
I am sorry for your loss. I pray good memories of her life will sustain you .
Oh, Stuart, deepest condolences to you and your family.
Stuart, I'm sorry for your loss.
Side note: My mother, who lives in elderly housing but leaves to run errands and weekly visits with me, keeps telling me how horrible the isolation has been for her friends who have not left their tiny apartments in months. They all go their first vaccine shot today...
Condolences to you & your family. I worry about my 94 year old mother for this reason too. Although, she has been telling me for years that she's ready to go & didn't plan on living so long. My brother & sil think the isolation caused her dad's death too. The mental deterioration of the elderly has been appalling.
Oh dear, Stuart, I am so sorry. There is nothing that can ease the pain of loss of your mom. Mine has been gone for 21 years now and I think of her every day. I hope the memories of her bring you some comfort.
Oh, Stuart, I'm so sorry. My mother died in 2004, and I often think that I'm glad she didn't live to see the last five years. She was a WWII USMC vet, and she would have been heart-broken.
It is nice that there were so many stars visible in the sky on a full-moonlit night, thanks to apparently no light pollution. Please thank Buddy for the restful image.
Thank you. Sleep deep!
I see that tRump lost his defense team 🤣😂🤣
OMG! I just read up on this. You have made my night!
I agree! Beyond schadenfreude! I know it's dishonorable to feel such glee at the dissolution of a victim of mental illness, but his illness is *malignant* on a World-Historical level. Gotta clear my schedule to be able to watch the Senate trial; sounds increasingly like it might be the best TV since Sam Ervin.
Oh?
Interesting. 😊
Really?😀
Thanks for your ongoing calm, fact-based approach to these times. You letter yesterday was especially helpful, pointing out how the Biden Admin isn't "playing the game". I continue to be concerned with things like a report on CNN tonight that just seems to try to stir the pot, making supposed news out of no actual story or focusing on the arguments, not the issues. I got my Journalism degree at the U of Minn in 1965. What happened to the rules we were taught about what constitutes a story. There's probably a story in this for you, when did the media ownership give up on Journalistic Standards? Sorry, that's my rant and I'm sticking to it.
I’ve been wondering that too. There could be a whole lecture series on the media throughout history. Rant on!
Lovely photo. Lovely group and interesting comments. It’s a misty morning here in Wales. Last night the moon came up over the mountain and brought a howling wind over our stone house and down to the sea. The moons tranquility was soothing and the tumultuous air washed everything away and I finally slept the deep sleep of no dreams. 🌕🌖🌗🌘🌑
Am a new appreciative subscriber. How great to not have 10 crises every min!
Welcome, Joan! I think because we can now go back to our normal dose of heart medicine...If we're honest,no matter where we find ourselves politically/culturally/emotionally/spiritually; we're all appreciating the reprieve :)
Just commenting yesterday to an old friend—I flip open the cover on my iPad first thing after fixing my coffee... and there is ... nothing. No news teasers! Glorious nothing!
And now, Trump's impeachment lawyers have started jumping ship...
Read this before going to bed last night. Allowed for a great sleep!
Yay!!!!!
Lock him up !!!!!!
Heather, may your well-deserved rest be peaceful. I pass along a little “historical” background on sea chanties, along with performances by some creative TikTok musicians. I thought you and Buddy might enjoy them. But a warning: they can become relentless ear-worms!
https://theconversation.com/tiktoks-sea-chanteys-how-life-under-the-pandemic-has-mirrored-months-at-sea-153421
That is cool!
Thanks, Laura! My heart soared when I learned that sea chanteys are, deservedly, a thing now. Many happy memories of singing some of the best with family and then at the Griswold Inn in CT. Good times!
I loved this! I subscribe to The Conversation, but had missed this story. Particularly enjoyable and poignant at a time when I am missing being in Maine and near the sea. I have never subscribed to TikTok (is that what one does? Subscribe?), but this tempts me to do so, just so that I can watch more people singing chanties.
Thank you! Now I plan to spend the evening listening away..