Twitter tools and how to use them

I'm not quite sure where I came accross this gem of an article, I'm thinking Twitter, for that I appologize. But anywhoo, I found the content useful and definitely something I would like to incorporate into my blogging experience. Currently I do use Twitterfeed, but need to learn more about the other tools mentioned.

One thing I do have to keep in mind tho is that I am really blogging for myself. I am having fun and have no asperations of becoming a blogging guru. When it becomes a chore, that is when I lose interest.

For those of you that are looking to expand your blogging experience check these tools out. Author explains the pros and cons and the how-tos of activating and setting up each tool mentioned.

4 Useful Twitter Automation Tools and How to Use Them

It still doesn't prove God or that Christ was divine

Sorry I don't intent to be a basher. I have never denied that Christ as a man existed; I have questioned his divinity. I question the existence of God. These codices, if they are proven to be legitimate only help solidify the historicity of the early church. With that said, what a fascinating find.

My only hope is that any findings come to light much faster than with the Dead Sea Scrolls; 60+ yrs is a bit long to wait. These artifacts need to be seen by all people, not just a select few. With our digital technology this should not be an issue. I look forward to the findings whatever they may be.

Could lead codices prove ‘the major discovery of Christian history’?

Could this be the biggest find since the Dead Sea Scrolls? Seventy metal books found in cave in Jordan could change our view of Biblical history

And the logic is ,,,what??

First question 1 of 3?? He got is statistics from where? Second question, and what of our current unemployment situation, might that not have some impact on social security? Also what about the fact that as a whole our population is living longer?? My mother just turned 90, dad is in his 80's; I have other family members that are also of that age. I have many friends who have chosen not to have kids, or have postponed it till later in life (ie. 30's and in some cases early 40's). IMHO I would think all of these issues would factor in. And let's not forget the biggie, exactly how much money has been "borrowed" from social security (and medicare) and not payed back?

On a side note isn't Santorum of the ilk to do away with social security, so his point is what?

Santorum blames abortion for Social Security woes

The more we learn,,,

I just thought this article was interesting. How they can determine as much as they do from a pile of bones is so intriguing.

Ancient Sorcerer's Wake Was First Feast for the Dead?

This sounds fun to try..

Like the article says something you have to make at least once. I think it sounds really fun,,,I'm going to have to try this. Would make a nice drink for the summer.

GINGER WATER

Ah,,,more books for your reading indulgences

I have read a couple of the books on the this list. Will have to see what else on the list piques my interest.

40 Modern Nonfiction Books Everyone Should Read

I think I can, I think I can

I like the title, the article hit the nail,,,it is a can't vs. won't mentality.

Can't implies that you lack the ability to do something. When it comes to being anxious about doing something, there is not an ability involved - there is a choice,,,[y]our job is to take a look at what you have said that you can't do and evaluate it - is it true that you can't do it, or is it that you won't do it. If you can't, then no one will ever be able to help you. If you won't, then that is a choice, and that can be addressed

Altho I personally do not have issues with anxiety per se, leaving my home can be an issue. I have what they term functioning agoraphobia, in other words I can leave my house to do necessary things like work, shop, appointments, and the like. But there are times when I do have to make myself leave,,,to go out and get some fresh air. It's then that I have to remind myself that I can do it, I have the ability.


Can't Versus Won't | Psychology Today

Impact of a bad job on mental health as harmful as no job at all

The fact that they had to do a study on this blows my mind. To me this is a no brainer. I know I was at my worst when I was out of work. The 3 times I have had extended periods of unemployment, I was a miserable biotch.

I have always felt that our personal self-worth is tied into our ability to be productive members of society. In our culture that means employment. Altho for me, as long as I have a job, whether low paying or not, I'm a happy camper. It may be due to the fact that were I live, any job that is found is a stroke of luck. You have to adjust your thinking a bit in order to survive.

Impact of a bad job on mental health as harmful as no job at all

Hard to believe,,,100 yrs ago

The first time I heard about this story I became fascinated. Such a tragedy. Until this article I had forgotten about it, almost. The Triangle fire (there was a movie about it that I watched but can't remember the name of it), many years ago piqued my interest in disaster stories of all kinds. To this day, I am still interested in them, it's nice to see that the victims have not been forgotten.

Lessons From Disaster : Blog Of The Nation : NPR

FDA OKs Drug to Treat Opioid Addiction

Always good to have another option in this war. I like the idea that it is a non-narcotic, non-addictive extended release medication. Will be curious as to how many people can be helped.

FDA OKs Drug to Treat Opioid Addiction

Books, books baby

What more can I say, I love to read. Most I haven't read in many years, tho I have been using LibriVox to listen to them. Siddartha being the first of the group to be downloaded; I also have The Prince.

Either way, reading or listening, it is great fun.

30 Books Everyone Should Read Before Their 30th Birthday

More learning stuff

For those that like to learn on their own this site has some good links. Broken down by subject and/or category, here are several top-notch self-education resources.

12 Dozen Places To Educate Yourself Online For Free

No regrets

"Christians ask this of atheists all the time, “What would you rather believe that you were created with a divine purpose in life or that you are just a product of random chance?” The idea is to create the false dichotomy that if one were created with a divine purpose, then one is special and magical while if someone doesn’t believe in a god (the Christian God in particular) then one must believe that they were just a product of random chance with no purpose at all and are therefore not special and have no value."

Interesting take on free will and the divine plan/purpose and how they relate. I have never really thought of it in this way. In actuality free will can not exist in this paradigm.

I like the idea of finding my own life path. I want to create my own journey and see where it leads. Whether good or bad, I will have no regrets.

Atheism 101: The Purpose of Life

Just wondering,,,

"Wonder is a magical word, I think. And it’s a word that needs more exploration. We need to explore wonder more often, because as adults, many of us lose our sense of wonder in life. It gets buried under piles of bills, deadlines, responsibilities and housework."

So very true. I never want to lose my sense of wonder. Thro all the crap of the last 2 years or so, at least I was able to salvage that.

5 Ideas for Cultivating a Sense of Wonder

First you have to identify them

Learning to identify the thought distortions and fixing them in my own life was one of the biggest challenges I faced in therapy. I remember learning about them back in the ole college days but knowing about them and doing something to change them is two different things.

We all have them, some more than others, it's how we answer these distortions that is important. I still have distortions, but when they arise they are usually fleeting, they no longer become absolutes.

The first two articles talk about identifying your distortions. The second two, how to challenge and "fix" the distortions.

10 Forms of Twisted Thinking

15 Common Cognitive Distortions

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Fixing Cognitive Distortions

Challenging Our Cognitive Distortions and Creating Positive Outlooks

Science vs. religion

"Religion and spirituality didn't go away just because organized religion has been losing its hold,,,[d]espite the noisy atheists, two trends in spirituality and science have started to converge. One is the trend to seek God outside the church,,, [t]he other trend is a growing interest by scientists in questions about consciousness."

In my mind spirituality does not equal religion. A person can be spiritual but not necessarily religious, I'm just not sure if I would fall into either category.

I am by no means a religious person, that much I am sure of. As to whether I am spiritual, I don't know, it's not something I have explored as of yet; at least not in any detail.

IMHO what Dr. Chopra is proposing runs into the realm of the metaphysical, it can't be proven/dis proven, it's thought, not science. Therein lays the problem. It's an interesting take this symposium he is advocating, but it can also be maddening at the same time. I look forward to the results.

My Take: Science and spirituality should be friends – CNN Belief Blog - CNN.com Blogs

Soothing to the savage beast

"Have you ever accidentally pulled your headphone socket out while listening to music? What happens when the music stops? Psychologists believe that our brains continuously predict what is going to happen next in a piece of music. So, when the music stops, your brain may still have expectations about what should happen next."

-----

"Music has a grammar, which, like language, consists of rules that specify which notes can follow which other notes in a piece of music."


I love my music from classical to rap. My friends know my moods based on what I'm listening to. If I am chilling usually soul music, if I'm at work and need to keep on movin,,,heavy metal works wonders. And yes, I do finish a piece in my head if I become disconnected.

How music 'moves' us: Listeners' brains second-guess the composer

My take on the Bible #3

1:3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.

Last I knew we need a sun for light. Where is the light coming from since the sun has yet to be created.

To whom is God speaking? If he is doing all the creating, why does he need to “say” anything?


Update 6/16/2011: Thought this would be a good addition just for the fun of it Interactive Bible: Genesis 1:3. Thanks to @Autoantitheist Anon for the link.


1:4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

"[T]hat it was good" uhm,,,thought God made no junk, as some would say. If God is a perfect being how could he create anything bad? Also does this not question his omniscience, that God wasn't sure if the light was good or bad?

If God just created "light" doesn't that automatically make light separate from darkness? Why would "he" have "divided the two?

God creates light, separates light from darkness, and day from night. Yet the light producing objects (the sun and the stars) aren't created until the fourth day (1:14-19).

1:5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.

Wondering who God is speaking to, why is/does he need to assign names?

How can there be "morning" and "evening" when they are both defined by the rising and setting of the sun? The sun does not exist yet.

Why does God need a gender? Why is God referenced as a male?

Shrooms,,,the legal kind

Article gives a basic overview of growing own mushrooms and it definitely piqued my interest. I am going to have to investigate this more. The following two sites are taken directly from the article--

Detailed growing instructions, supplier lists, recipes, and numerous links to other resources can be found at:

The Mushroom Growers Newsletter

and

The website of mushroom guru Paul Stamets

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Grow your own shiitake mushrooms - CSMonitor.com

Lost but now found

"Notes on the back of a 400-year-old letter have revealed a previously unknown language once spoken by indigenous peoples of northern Peru,,,"

"Even though [the letter] doesn't tell us a whole lot, it does tell us about a language that is very different from anything we've ever known—and it suggests that there may be a lot more out there,,,"

"Lost" Language Found on Back of 400-Year-Old Letter

The Famous Meet Gory Ends In,,,

"How They Croaked: The Awful Ends of the Awfully Famous is a new book we really needed. Author Georgia Bragg has gathered the gory stories behind the last days of 19 famous figures, all in one cleverly illustrated book."

The Famous Meet Gory Ends In 'How They Croaked' : NPR

Atheist vs theist,,,one man's perspective

Interetsing take on the age ole atheist vs theist debate.

Five questions for Christians

Mutant xians

Your child is following a "mutant" form of Christianity, and you may be responsible.

Dean says more American teenagers are embracing what she calls "moralistic therapeutic deism." Translation: It's a watered-down faith that portrays God as a "divine therapist" whose chief goal is to boost people's self-esteem.

This book actually sounds interesting to me,,,will have to see if I can get it at audible.com. I would definitely consider "reading" it.

Author: More teens becoming 'fake' Christians - CNN.com

Bipolar ≠ Violence

"The truth of the matter is that just because you have a mental illness; does not mean you are violent. I know that each person needs to be evaluated on an individual basis, but I believe that includes every individual, not just those of us who have a diagnosis; sane people murder, too."

In my opinion individuals with bipolar are more apt to be self-destrucive in their actions rather than violent towards others (ie. Mel Gibson, Linsday Lohan, Brittany Spears and Mike Tyson come to mind.) We lack impulse control when manic. Those of us that have psychotic features to our mania, our brains are to scattered to carry our complex tasks. When I am in meltdown, I'm lucky I remember how to dress myself.

I feel that those that commit violence, already had those plans in mind prior to the incident; their little plots, to save humaniuty from the evils of the world, were pre-existing and festering in their sick heads (by that I mean don't mean mentally ill sick.)

Most people that I know with a diagnosed illness are hard working, straight up people who know they have problems. They have taken steps to ensure their well-being, and surrounded themselves with caring and supportive people. Many have struggled finding the proper care, but they have taken the initiative in getting what they need and not expecting the system to do all ther work for them.

But yet we still have those that appear to slip thro the cracks. It always seems to be them that get the headlines when something bad happens.

Are People with Bipolar Disorder Violent?

In or out

This article illustrates one of my conundrums with the bible as a whole,,,you can make it say what ever you want it to say. That is if you want to waste the time and energy in the mental gymnastics invovled. Altho I believe that the bible holds no authority in my life, I still find this debate of homosexualiuty in/not in the bible to be stimulating from an academic point of view.

My Take: The Bible really does condemn homosexuality

Placebo effect works both ways

"The study of the placebo effect -- and its opposite the nocebo effect -- is published in Science Translational Medicine. The findings suggest that doctors may need to consider dealing with patients' beliefs about the effectiveness of any treatment, as well as determining which drug might be the best for that patient."

A bit of mind over matter maybe? This study doesn't surprise me tho. On good days, where my mind set is positive and upbeat, my pain levels are lower and my meds work better. Days that I'm feeling bleck, my pain level feels higher. Granted the weather does factor in, and I do have a seasonal affect to my bipolar. In my personal experience this all contributes, mental mind-set is so important.

Placebo effect works both ways: Beliefs about pain levels appear to override effects of potent pain-relieving drug

Shallow Fried Spicy Fish Recipe

Now to find a good piece of fish to try this on.

Shallow Fried Spicy Fish Recipe

Quin-What Did You Say? Quinoa

I love this stuff, it's so versatile. It makes a great pilaf or taboulli!!

Quin-What Did You Say? Quinoa, The Grain-like Seed Packed with Protein

Crispy Fish with Shaved Zucchini Salad Recipe

Not sure what sound better the fish or the zucchini salad :))

Crispy Fish with Shaved Zucchini Salad Recipe

Pork, White Bean, and Kale Soup

There is nothing better than a delicious bowl of soup. Can't wait to try this one!!

Pork, White Bean, and Kale Soup Recipe

I don't know all the answer because I don't know the questions,,yet

"A question is a holy thing. Diving deeply into questions can take us to our heart, and our true nature. Questions are the vital creative drive to knowing truth."

Hmm,,,wonder if this is why I have a tendency to question everything. I don't like not knowing the answers. Could explain the reason for this blog,,,Ya think??

Actually a fascinating little article that makes me wonder about some of the questions I do ask and ponder about. The 7 keys are something to keep in the back of my mind.

Deep Questioning

"Perfection" anyone?

"Everyone has lived some of these qualities at some point in their lives. Maintaining these qualities into a life-style is key. This is aided by a number of things from choosing ones friends for support, to implementing self-discipline to stay the course. In all the people create a supporting culture to enforce their desires to be a better human being."

Maslow, The qualities of the superior true human being

Alone vs lonely (isolation)

There is a difference between being alone and feeling lonely. Many people spend time away from other people through choice, whereas loneliness often relates to a lack of support and acceptance within a social context. Removal of social support is almost always to the detriment of our mental and physical health.

I personally relish my alone time, away from the chaos that life entails. For me there is nothing more precious than time with my wife, just her and I in our own little world. But I am a social animal and enjoy the company of friends and co-workers. But thro all this I know one thing, I have support. I have people that will see me thro the rough spots in life.

The degree of loneliness relates to the breadth and depth of our social relation-ships. To what extent do our social networks support and accept us? We are advised to seek and cultivate relationships that make us feel good about ourselves – especially relevant in the age of online social networking.

That is not to say I haven't experienced loneliness, I think we all have. In some regards it is those periods of loneliness and in some cases isolation, I find we grow the most. It is when the loneliness and isolation become the norm that problems can arise. That is where I feel, based on my own experience, that social networking can be a good thing.

IMHO this also means outside of the family. You need support from those around you that do not have anything to gain/lose by your success or failure. I like to surround myself with strong positive people. I like people who have personalities that take up a room, the bolder the better. I find that my friends with this type of personality won't allow me to isolate.

[I don't know how to explain my experience without being long winded and boring to boot, all I can say is that without social networking in varying degrees I would be hard-pressed to think I would be here typing this post. Also due to where I live, finding individuals with the same interests is difficult. As much as I hate saying this, the community I live in leans towards closed-mindedness, with little acceptance of non-linear thinking.]

There is some evidence to suggest that being part of a social network is more advantageous than one-off instances of support, and that help from a friend is better than that provided by a stranger.

I'm not so sure about that last part. When I was returning to PA last April [after a disastrous year that landed me in the hospital, and 16 stitches in arm after a suicide attempt] I ran into a gentleman at the KC bus terminal who stopped to talk to me. This man did not know me or my circumstances, all he said was "I will pray for you," and walked away. The funny thing, At the moment I was contemplating finishing what I had started. SO I don't disregard strangers.

Can loneliness really damage your health? - Science, News - The Independent

RIP Rick Martin

Rick Martin, member of famed French Connection, dead at 59

Many years ago I had the honor of meeting you,,,you were a class act and one hell of a player,,,So many memories are etched into my mind,,,I wish your family peace!!

So hard to believe, many a day that my friends and I would "pretend" we where the French Connection. Playing our street hockey games or just messing around. I lived hockey 24/7, from the first day my mom and pop got me a hockey stick. Then I learned to skate and played in an all girls league until injury forced my "retirement" at age 23. I would still be playin if I could. Just hard to believe, and yes I have tears in my eyes!!

Quick thought concerning Japan

Was reading some of the recent headlines concerning the devastation in Japan. I have to say that the feelings of sadness that I have at the moment bring back memories of what occurred after Katrina. I just hope that that the aid they so desperately need arrives soon. As crazy as this may sound I feel guilty, I am unable to financially help, so what is a person to do.

I am heartened to see that people that are in a position to help are making donations. On the front page of Yahoo! they have donation link...as of this posting
13,456 people donated $666,199. I think that is wonderful and I applaud all that have donated.

peace y'all!!

I'd say this point of view is a bit "dangerous"

These Edenic myths are illusions whose power lies not in their real presence but in their expression of what we really, really wish were true. But they also have the power to remove us from full, mindful living in the present, which is messy, unstable and insecure.

,,,

So too with the life of faith. We may long for an original, solid rock, a foundation that will not falter in the storm. For many, that rock is the Bible. But that, too, is an illusion.

When I first read/skimmed this article, my initial thought was, "dude your your hittin' a very sensitive spot, gonna piss a lot of people off." But further down in the article he hit the nail:

There is no “the Bible,” no book that is the one and only Bible. There are lots and lots of Bibles. They come in many different physical and digital forms with a great variety of content – different canons, translations, notes, commentaries, pictures, and so on.

Just don't tell this to a KJV only believer, they will have your hide.

My Take: There’s no such thing as the Bible and never has been

Peace and good will to Japan

I am not a religious person and do not like to take advantage of the misery of others. To the people of Japan and to those here in the US (and abroad). It is with much hope that your families and friends are safe. The devastation you are facing may seem insurmountable but in time your strength will pull you through. I send you peace and good will.

What is "My take on the Bible"

Plain and simple, it's what I see when I read the Bible as is. No attempt at dogmatic interpretation. No asking for divine guidance. Just straight up word for word reading.

Now for a little background. Altho I currently consider myself to be a deistic agnostic bordering on atheism, I haven't always been that way. I was raise Evangelical Missouri Synod Lutheran; baptized and confirmed. In my late teens I became a "born again" christian. I attended a christian college entering as a bible and theology major with a goal of youth ministry.

So what happened, well religion happened.

The church happened.

BUT,,,my de-conversion odyssey is not just dogmatic or doctrinal. Both issues are involved, but my journey has not been a simple one. Without going into a long diatribe, my deistic agnosticism (bordering on atheism) has come after many years of study and thought. My rejection of the biblical cannon as having authority in my life, or as a revelation from god is complete.

Altho I no longer believe in the existence of the Abrahamic concept of god, I do accept the possibility of some form of a higher power hence the agnosticism. Tho I do not believe this higher power to be revelatory (deism) as generally accepted by those of christian faith.

Two thoughts that I have kept in the back of my mind in regards to my personal journey--

We are here to learn, to grow and to experience,,,becoming more perfect is not just the journey, but the destination.

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We all know that there are many mysteries in life, we are all searching for the answers. All peoples have to question life from time to time since there is no final answer that is within our grasp.

My take on the Bible #2

1:2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.

I thought God already created earth, so how could it be “without form” and “void,” did it really exist yet? In order for it to be distinguished from "heavens" (space), it must have some kind of form.

The “face of the waters” uhm,,,ok,,,where'd they come from? Primal sludge maybe? If the earth had no "form" I'm thinking no gravity, so was this water just enveloping the hunk of earth? Free floating in space ("heavens" or maybe atmosphere as we know it today)? Did God create these waters, or did they exist all along?

How can the "darkness" be understood without prior knowledge of "light" which hasn't been created yet?

What is the difference between “God” and “the Spirit of God”?

So very true

"There is no moral grounding for atheists and no moral grounding for Christians either or for anyone else for that matter. Morality is not completely absolute nor is it completely subjective. There is a delicate balance and we are all trying our best to navigate these often-difficult moral paths. As human society has progressed, we have learned more and more about how best to treat each other in a moral way but our moral journey is far from over and as we as a people continue to learn, we will no doubt refine our moral compasses."

Atheism 101: Is there moral grounding without God? - Philadelphia atheism | Examiner.com

14 websites to make you a more intelligent person

Some kewl stuff to explore,,,gawd I love the internet,,,lol!!

14 websites to make you a more intelligent person

So you stil want to be a writer?

A good rundown on the writing process. Something to post into the back of my mind when the writing bug hits me. Yes, I aspire to be a writer, but life has interupted. So for now I play with my blog until I get better settled financially.

Finding Your Writing Voice without Losing Your Mind

This is a no brainer,,,

and one that I am well aware of. As a current user of prescribed pain medication, my biggest fear was becoming addicted once again. Notice I said again,,,this is a BTDT moment for me, I have already wasted 6 years being addicted to pain meds and I sure as hell ain't gonna do it again,,,lol.

That was back in my 20's, I got hooked on oxy,,,used it to self-medicate before I knew I had bipolar. Prior to that it was alcohol,,,you see the pattern. It's a pattern not mentioned in this article (actually it is, but only briefly), but it doesn't take away fromt he core message of the article.

The key for me, my doc knows my history. Knows that becoming addicted is a strong possiblilty. That is why finding the right medication and dosage was important. My last appointment I even asked if what I was taking was OK for the long term. Am I hooked, probably; addicted no. I would go through withdrawal (and yes it will suck), but I sure as hell ain't goin to buy it on the streets. There in lies the difference, IMHO.

Before I go, I found this bit of information interesting: "When asked if any doctor had ever asked about a substance use problem before writing a prescription, of the 53 participants who answered the question, 74 percent said no." That to me is scary. Maybe it's just me, but my doc knows everything,,,good, bad, and the ugly,,,she can be very blunt and straight forward when needed, and she don't take no shit (at least from me anyways). Then again I'm biased, I wouldn't be here right now if it wasn't for my doc,,,more on that later, maybe.

Prescription Pain Pills Lead to Addiction

Hmmph,,,

Obviously the title caught my eye, and the article started out with a bang but ended with a poof. I wish the author would have had more specific examples and less of the ordinary rhetoric altho it has piqued an interest in finding more information.

Christian Right Bigots Are Hiding the Truth -- Early Christians Condoned Gay Marriage

Thoughts ≠ facts

"Next time your mind jumps to a conclusion that inevitably sends in you in a spiral toward depression or anxiety, check to see where your head was at the time of that interpretation. What just occurred prior? There may be some clues as to why the interpretation was made that way."

Another Reason Why Thoughts are Not Facts

Nice and simple

Rice Noodle Bowl with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe

A flash from the past

Another psyche related article with practical applications.

Women, Leadership and Personality: Insights Form the Myers-briggs Type Indicator

What do you want to be?

What caught my eye about this article isn't so much the theory as applied to procrastination but the Self-Discrepancy Theory as a whole. "Our ideal self is the person we want to be. Our ought self is our understanding of what others want us to be - what we ought to be and do. Then there is our actual self."

Put another way: We are motivated to maintain a sense of consistency among our various beliefs and self-perceptions. This causes problems as there are invariably differences between our aspirations for ourselves and our actual behaviors.

The question is--What happens when our actual self doesn't match the ideal or ought selves?

This reminds me a bit of cognitive dissonance--the feeling of uncomfortable tension which comes from holding two conflicting thoughts in the mind at the same time. Which is something that I am well aware of. During my years of therapy it was a subject that was hit upon in many a session.

What's Your "Ought Self" Like?

Have (never) heard of existential therapy

Oops ok yes I have,,,just didn't put 2 + 2 together,,,had to look up exactly what existential therapy is. As soon as I saw Victor Frankl's name I flashed back to college and my existential phase in life.

Existentialists believe that our human capacity for self-awareness gives us possibilities for freedom - as we will realize that we are finite and time is limited, we have the potential and the choice to act or not to act, meaning is not automatic and we must seek it, and we are subject to loneliness, meaninglessness, guilt and isolation. Therefore, people are free to choose among alternatives available to them in living and have a large role in shaping their own personal destinies. The manner in which we live and what we become are results of our choices and people must take responsibility for directing their own lives.

Back to the origianl article,,, I sidetracked,,,

"It’s funny how we often prepare for other life events like exams or performances, court cases or giving birth. Yet when it comes to one of our most powerful life events – our death – we’d often rather look the other way.

,,,

Existential therapy encourages us to brave this stuff. To look into the face of it and see what’s there. To truly know our own death as one of the ‘four existential givens’ or the four inevitabilities of our very existence (death, freedom/responsibility, isolation and meaning/meaninglessness). Existential therapy wants to know if understanding these ‘givens’ might change the way we’d choose to live."

Definitely something to ponder a bit more,,,though off the top, death holds no unknowns for me and I live my life accordingly.

Existential Therapy: What Can Death Teach Us About Life?

My take on the Bible #1

1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

It is generally accepted by anti-theist that there are two creation accounts described in the opening book of the Bible, theist do not do not always agree. Either way you look at it the story in Gen 1 conflicts with the story in Gen 2:4-25,,,the order of events are entirely different.

As I read it, "in the beginning" means that heaven and earth were created together, but scientific evidence does not and cannot support this. According to studies generally accepted by the scientific community our solar system formed about 4.5 billions years ago, which means that the Universe must be at least twice that old, because before our solar system formed, our Milky Way galaxy had to form, and that probably took several billions years by itself. The evidence estimates that the age of the Universe is at least 15 billion years old, but probably not more than 20 billion years old.

The order of events known from science is opposite of what is listed in Genesis: the earth is created (1:1) before light (1:3), sun and stars (1:16); birds and whales (1:21) before reptiles and insects (1:24); and flowering plants (1:11) before any animals (1:20).

What does “heaven” refer to? If the earth was "without form" or "formless" (v2) then it follows it could not be the atmosphere; no form, no gravity to hold an atmosphere. Is "heaven" then the universe outside of planet earth. If that is the case, then where did God exist before He “created” space? For that matter, where does God exist now?

[Responses I have heard in the past--God exists “outside” of normal space. God exists in the “spiritual realm.” God exists “outside of creation.” But without defining the meaning of “outside creation” or “spiritual realm,” this kind of response is simply an appeal to emotion IMHO.

The “beginning” of what? What did God do before the beginning? Who created God?

One of the standard responses to these questions is the Cosmological Argument. Simply stated: everything in the world requires a cause; by induction into the past, there must exist a “first cause” that initiated all future events. This first cause is God.

A good introductory article concerning the minutae of the Cosmological Argument

My response to the cosmological argument is that the universe does not necessarily require a creator. The universe may be “just there, and that’s all,” and
may have always existed into the infinite past. (Borrowed from Bertrand Russell)

The Bible makes no mention of the actual physical processes that take place when God does his creating.

Why does God need to create anything? If God is a perfect and eternally “complete,” and if God sees that something is missing and needs to create it, it therefore implies that this god is not perfect to begin with.

The creation story assumes many aspects of how the universe came to be, a monotheistic religious outlook. Most scientists argue that "God" is not a scientifically proven cause; current acceptable evidence does not verify a deity’s existence.

Another DIY idea

Lots of ideas for herb vinegars. Some interesting combinations to try.

How To Make Herb Vinegars

10 common scams

Some things to keep an eye out for especially in these trying financial times.

Watch out for these 10 common scams - Yahoo! Finance

I'd be screwed if this ever started happening here

Employers Start Firing Employees Who Test Positive For Certain Prescription Drugs | Truth Is Scary

I'd say yummy but this isn't edible,,,lol

Love stuff like this to make for gifts. Will definitely be trying this out, may be good for when I have to cut onions and garlic

Homemade Sugar Scrub

Info to definitely keep an eye on

New Genetic Link to Bipolar Disorder | Candida Fink, MD | Bipolar Beat

All I can say is WTF,,,

was this kid thinking. I have absolutely no sympathy for him!! All I'm gonna say without blowing a gasket. Unbelievable!!

Michigan Town Is Divided Over Charges of Child Pornography - NYTimes.com

Historic Discovery in Peruvian Jungle Forces Rethinking Past History | Truth Is Scary

I think it is fascinating that with all of our knowledge that to this day we can learn something new. Human history has so much to teach us

Historic Discovery in Peruvian Jungle Forces Rethinking Past History | Truth Is Scary

Cooking With Your Spouse Can Be Fun

Both my wife and I enjoy cooking. Usually during the week she will cook for me due to my work schedule, but on the weekends I try to cook for her and we try and prepare it together. It's sorta like our time. With summer approaching I am looking forward to being able to grill outside with her.

How Cooking With Your Spouse Can Be Fun

Tolkien in a new light

I find this totally facinating. Who doesn't like JRR Tolkien!!

"Instead of spending all my time doing scholarly publishing, which we're told to do -which most people will never read - I basically decided to put myself out to the public," Olsen said.

It remains to be seen whether academia will reward Olsen or punish him for breaking out of his scholarly track. When it comes to building resumes and courting full professorships, podcasts don't typically count."

I may have to replace my copies of all the books and re-read them again and follow along with his lectures

'Tolkien Professor' Corey Olsen brings Middle-earth to iTunes via podcasts

Book Recommendation

Altho I haven't read this book yet, I have had the pleasure of communicating with the author via the Spiritually Raw Discussion Forum and speaking with her through the show. Because of my history with bipolar disorder and my own suicide attempts, Marianne's story hit a nerve and I feel her message is so very important!!

Vanilla anyone,,,I dont mean the rapper either

I'm not the worlds best baker, but on occassion I like to make some chocolate chip cookies. I may have to invest in some beans to try this or as the article says to make as a gift. I love making homemade gifts so this would definitely fit the bill.

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Spice, spice baby,,,

A nice intro with some suggested uses,,,

"It's good to get to know your spices. They can add an individual taste to your dishes leaving people wondering what that special ingredient was, or even asking you for the recipe. Be careful, in any instance, not to overload a dish with spices; often times this will leave a dish unedible. Below is a helpful guide to some of the most commonly used spices in the kitchen."

Common spices and their uses - by Pandora Hall - Helium

Cookbook list

Some great cookbooks in this list,,,at one point I had 5-6 of these. If your just starting out I would recommend #2,4,5,10!!

10 cookbooks no home should be without - Dayton Food | Examiner.com

Chuckling to myself on this one

Altho I am not a full blown atheist, a deistic agnostic is what I describe myself as, I found this article to be one of the so true but gotta laugh at it. My favorite is #10,,,it is scary how many people honestly believe this one.

Top 10 Misconceptions About Atheists

Dueling cellists play "Smooth Criminal"

This is F***ing SWEET!!!

Dueling cellists play "Smooth Criminal"

And I care about this why?

Altho I do agree with the message--that the Jewish people as a whole were NOT responsible for Jesus' death--anyone with a brain, who can read, and think rationally should already know this. I just think it's ridiculous that 1 man/religion thinks they have so much power.

Pope exonerates Jews for Jesus' death in new book - Yahoo! News

Southeast Asian Noodle Soups (How to Cook Them)

Some great ideas and tips on how to prepare:

Mostly cuisines in Southeast Asia included noodle soups within and within a country here are variations, plus of course the regional variations is differentiated although to some extent there are similarities. Noodle soups in Southeast Asia is part of the meal and available everywhere in restaurants and side streets. The use of ingredients, spices and condiments varied but slightly similar throughout Asia. The use of chili spices in noddle soups is widely used.

Southeast Asian Noodle Soups and How to Cook Them

The "Don't Say Gay Bill"

Don't these people have anything better to do like maybe,,,job creation!! Reading stuff like this just makes me wonder,,,lol!!

The "Don't Say Gay Bill" Introduced in Tennessee | God Discussion

A bit wordy (big words that is) but important

"Understanding the genetics of bipolar disorder could lead to new treatments, but identifying specific genetic variations associated with this disorder has been challenging."

New clue to the genetics of bipolar disorder: Piccolo

Interesting article,,,BUT

Need to read the comment section. I even hestitate to include this piece but it does have some validity to it.

Mariana Caplan, Ph.D.: 10 Spiritually Transmitted Diseases

For those that like to read

I love to read, there is nothing like holding a good book in your hands. So if you're into the thriller genre here is a good list for you.

Audience Picks: Top 100 'Killer Thrillers' : NPR

Dang,,,some of these people I have never even heard of

I consider myself fairly well well, but I haven't heard of half these people. Guess I got some reaearching to do,,,lol.

The 50 Most Brilliant Atheists of All Time

Scale of evil

A few years ago I came accross a similar scale by someone,,,only thing I can remember was he is considered the father of criminal profiling,,,Ihate when I have a brain fart. But interesting noone the less.

On The Scale Of Evil, Where Do Murderers Rate?

Roasted Tomatoes With Shrimp and Feta

Hot damn,,,this sound wonderful!!

Roasted Tomatoes With Shrimp and Feta | Real Simple Recipes

Dream big

Articulate your dream. How can you achieve it if you don’t know what it is?

If there is one thing I have learned in the past year, this article states it so very well. It has help my recovery from--losing self to others syndrome. For too long my self-worth and self-identity was buried under trying to please others. I know what my dream is, and whether I will reach it remains to be seen, but I'm gonna have fun trying to reach it.

15 Inspirational, Motivational Tips to Help You Dream Big | Psychology Today

Title says it all

10 Brilliant Social Psychology Studies

Simple and practical

"I grew up listening to Dr. Ruth Westheimer’s call in radio show. As a teenager, I’d tune in on Sunday nights and listen to Dr. Ruth answer all manner of sexual questions. One main point in each answer was clear. You must take responsibility for your own satisfaction.

It’s not a huge leap to apply her attitude towards our mental health. Too often we look for others to solve our problems, provide fulfillment or soothe us when we’re stressed and anxious. If we’re constantly looking for others to solve our problems and manage our mental health, we’re likely to spend a lot of time frustrated, stressed and anxious."

Very Simple practical advice--Take an active, rather than passive, approach to solving problems; Manage your environment; Engage in healthy daily habits; Notice when you are stuck.

Taking Responsibility for Your Own Well-Being

Calling all book junkies

The past couple of days I have been attempting to organize my favorites. It seems like a never ending project for me because I find so many fascinating things. I am such an info junkie it's pathetic; my wife calls me her "little nerd" so I guess it fits. I have been trying to link to sites that I think are really kewl (see my favorites sites on sidebar) but I found one site that has put me in heaven so to speak.

If you like books but don't have time to read this site is the bomb. The books are all public domain (ie. copyrights have expired) but their are some gems hidden in there. Personally I like many of the classics and philosophy. But best of all, after downloading, I can listen anytime. In other words I have 100+ hours of listening enjoyment to keep my mind occupied while my body is busy at work. [My job is a bit mindless at times so listening to music or pod casts or books helps the night go faster--the joys of 3rd shift.]

But seriously folks this site is awesome and I highly recommend it!!

LibriVox: Free Audiobooks LibriVox volunteers record chapters of books in the public domain and release the audio files back onto the net. Our goal is to make all public domain books available as free audio books.

"Our objective is to make all books in the public domain available, for free, in audio format on the Internet." Are you crazy? Ok so it's pretty unlikely we'll succeed. Probably impossible. But what's wrong with trying? Like world peace, we think it's a worthy objective. Don't you? It would be silly to say: "Our objective is to make some books available", since we've done that already. We want the project to continue while there are public domain books to read. If that takes 1,000 years, well, nothing could make us happier.

I highly recommend,,,

all of 'em really. But #1 is tops in my book. Great info can be found there.

10 Psychology Websites To Help Educate Yourself