Thursday, August 31, 2017

Dwelling Upon

   
   
     Your mind might like to go to a dwelling place where you think, rethink, and overthink particular topics or events, perhaps reminiscing, analyzing, or seeking comfort.  You may have reasons to spend more time thinking about the past, the present, or the future.
     Some people wish to live in the moment, keep the past in its place, and not worry too much about the future.  Others may have strong emotional attachments to the past and either like to relive pleasant memories or have trouble forgetting unpleasant ones.  Some people get stuck on trying to solve problems and delay decision making.  Others worry about the future and things that are out of their control.  They may even seek comfort in unrealistic ideas.
     Unfortunate circumstances may force people to dwell upon solving certain problems to survive or improve their lives.  They may not have the luxury to think about other things until their problems are solved.  Tragedies can monopolize our thinking until we are able to move on to a more balanced life.
    Spending an excessive degree of time on a particular subject can take away time better spent on other more pertinent concerns.  Vary your interests, what you think about, read about, and talk about.  Get beyond your own personal story.  You will become more interesting to yourself and others.  Consider the things you have been dwelling upon.         

Sunday, August 20, 2017

Lifesavers

 
      A lifeguard, a firefighter, a good doctor, or a helpful friend can literally save your life or you may save theirs.  Other times, someone or something may temporarily give you a break from a difficult situation.  A piece of candy or a comfort food can make life a little sweeter.
     Solutions both permanent and temporary can help us continue through life and improve hard times.  Exercising our bodies and minds may put us back on track.  An escape from unpleasant facts can relieve stress and give us the strength to persevere.   Meditation, reading, and writing can calm our busy lives.  Some believe that religion and prayer provide solace.
     Find ways to be a lifesaver for yourself and others.

   

Saturday, August 5, 2017

Recommended

   
     Neil deGrasse Tyson dedicated this small book "To all those who are too busy to read fat books Yet nonetheless seek a conduit to the cosmos."  I recommend this book to anyone who appreciates scientists and their discoveries.
     Two of my favorite Tyson quotes: "We are stardust brought to life." "After the laws of physics, everything else is opinion."  I would also add a Confucius saying: "True wisdom is knowing what  you don't know."  I don't know much about astrophysics but am eager to learn more.   I admire scientists and authors who can relate this information to scientists and non-scientists alike.
     Be informed about scientific realities.  Enjoy this brief but meaningful introduction to astrophysics.  The info will awaken your interest, and the final chapter puts everything into perspective.  
   

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Saints

   
     In NOLA - a football team, in the Catholic Church - a dead miracle worker, in the Lutheran Church - all Christians, in general -  someone who leads an exemplary life, these are saints.
     We may think someone is a saint when they are a good person, going beyond what many people do, behaving in a way that benefits others.  Some definitions add that a saint is holy.
     Sainthood is a goal for many who seek wisdom from God and then live with Him eternally.  Some  people just try to do their best according to their own judgment.  Many in Louisiana look to their team to do their best.
     Whether you cheer for, pray to, or revere someone who has done their best, realize you can also be a saint.  Whether you are religious or not, just do your best.