The memoir captures diverse life experiences, prompting readers to reflect on their journey and those around them. It takes them on a psychological journey, leading to thoughtful contemplation about their purpose on earth.
When fitted together, our lives are shown to be resilient in the face of adversities, like shattered pieces of glass.
THE AUTHOR
B. M. Lustol was born in Guyana and raised a Catholic. She immigrated to Canada in 1975, living with her sister and later joining a religious organization. Eventually, she became a baptized witness. During her journey in Canada, she excelled in sales, becoming the top sales representative for Canada and the United States and earning a five-star diamond pin. Her experiences with early childhood trauma, physical abuse, and a spiritual awakening qualify her to speak on these subjects within her work, “Until My Dying Day.” Committed to uplifting those in or affected by abusive relationships, her story aims to inspire self-discovery and resilience.
THOUGHTS moves to action, Action produces results, and with the results comes consequences for good or bad.
We need to filter our thoughts. Thoughts that trigger negative emotions. When we encounter actions of others that provoke negative thoughts which move to express actions, one then need to grab a hold of self, to control out-burst of actions that will lead to bad conclusions. Being patient with self as you ponder the action of others will lead to good conclusions on both sides. War is with those who do not see the impeding danger of their actions. Selfishness has tied itself around them and the end is not good even for those who are innocent.
The Canadian truckers protest is an example of what happens when sight is blinded, and passion over rules logic. The situation offers a reminder of the fragility of the global supply chains to and from businesses that eventually affects individuals; and of the deep interdependence of the U.S. and Canadian economies, which exchange millions in imports and exports daily.
This pandemic and the Public Health restrictions that came with it, have brought together a number of disparate movements and ideologies. And though the mandate applies to truckers crossing the U.S. border and not all truckers, “some are taking sides with the truckers’ convoy as has one Paul Aubue, a 64-year-old grandfather of a trucking company protesting the recent vaccine mandate and the vaccine passport.”
Locals who are frustrated, fed up, and at times in fear of leaving their homes are against the sustained protest. “One local who give her name as Jennifer was called “”’a dumb cunt sheep’”” for wearing a mask says, “”I’m just done with those people.””
And that is what some siding with the convoy protesting wants—fear; fear, that will deter the actions of logic to good health, and back to a thriving economy.
The government’s drastic measures are a sad one. But, at times to inject order and peace, drastic measures must be taken. The truckers’ play on words of Trudeau’s father, is shallow thinking.
It is repeated that it takes a village to raise a child, a proven factual statement. However, I recently pondered the question: What does it take for a community to behave righteously towards its fellow man? I raised this question with you, who are taking the time to read this post.
DISCRIMINATION
Discrimination can arise as a result of direct or indirect unequal treatment of another or the effects of unequal treatment of others and is a practice or behavior, whether intentional or not, which harms an individual or group based on prohibited grounds, including but not limited to disability, gender, race, receipt of public assistance, sexual orientation, unrelated to the person’s abilities or objective considerations relating to the decision that is made.
MY COMMUNITY
I currently live in a community of culturally diverse citizens and immigrants. A community that offers low rent, and anyone who integrates into it has the opportunity to learn once the individual keeps an open mind to learn. In today’s world, each is offered various avenues to acquire knowledge, but as mentioned, the individual must keep an open mind to learn. I’ll admit, not all seen or read benefits a healthy mind, and it is best left alone. It’s like someone taking a medication or over-the-counter drug to heal a situation. Just because it works for them doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you. Therefore, one will find what best suits them through trial and error.
Within my community, like any other community, you will find problems. You will find excellent and wicked individuals, clean and dirty individuals, those with mental issues, those handling stressful situations, and those who have overcome them to the point that they can now assist others. Note that I used the word assist, not teach. To become a teacher, one must pass the test that allows them to hold a written document that states the person now qualifies in a specific area to teach. So, how does a community solve the problem of those who have gone beyond their mental issue to be insane to the point that they cannot think on a reasonable level to appreciate certain opportunities?
DEFINITIONS OF MENTAL ISSUES
The meaning of being mentally insane is one gone crazy, mentally deranged, or utterly senseless. On the other hand, the law defines one who is insane as incapable because of a mental disorder of conforming conduct to the limits imposed by criminal law—a person who is not legally responsible for their action or actions.
A mental disorder is a psychological syndrome associated with distress. This can be characterized by incomplete mental development, with onset before age 18 leading to significantly below-average intellectual functioning. The individual you’ll find is impaired in a critical area or areas of functioning. In most cases, you’ll find the individual with a pattern of deviant behavior associated with distress or interference with personal functions.
BEFORE PASSING JUDGEMENT
My question remains: How do members within a community inject righteous behavior into our fellow men and women who ignore their responsibility to be civilized toward others regardless of color or culture? Do we ignore those with reckless behaviors? We are here to learn from each other.
One day I was traveling on the street car coming home when I stood next to a gentleman (not gentle at all) who kept looking up at me. As he did, I kept looking back at him. His action was not good enough just to stare at me occasionally, he once in a while would jab my body as he shifts in his seat. Once, twice, on the third time when he got up and hit me, I spoke out loud to him to stop. He had no right to hit me. To make a long story short, the bus driver stopped, told us to leave the bus, and called the cops because he nor I were leaving the bus. I had had a long day and just wanted to get home. Where he was going, I hadn’t a clue. Eventually, some got off the bus to walk to their destination, and on leaving one woman turns to me: “ You should not have said anything to him, can’t you see he is not right in the head.”
“Thank you madam, but that does not give him the right to be hitting me.” Yes, I stood up to him. In the end, the cops arrived, took my information, and took him off the bus, and I was driven to my stop. You, me, as we, have to stand up to those who take advantage of a situation, and this includes those in authority who has the opportunity to put in place the law, fairly.
Speaking out loud on the street compared to behind closed doors still concludes that words spoken out loud are so that the listener pays attention. The same applies to words whispered (In a dream… Job 33:15) during our sleeping state: to pay attention to what is spoken, which brings me to say that experiences teach us best. As we go through the process [yes, it is a process] when being persecuted, if awareness is present, discoveries are recognized of the one persecuting you, as you do of yourselves of actions to correct. It is what one would say going through the fire to be refined. Therefore, do not let criticism from others push you to death before your time. Life is for us to grow as we live. Within the process, we can heal our twisted thoughts, allowing us to overcome the force penetrating the mind with negatives.
USE AND DISCLOSURE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
Information collection is used to determine if a household qualifies to rent a unit or a home. Therefore, those in management must treat any Tenant’s malicious complaints of others as an offense and deal with them by removal when they are found in such acts.
Indirect information such as notes, photographs, and digital images. The Housing Connections application form; rental and credit reporting agencies: Ontario Works; Ontario Disability Support Program; other housing providers and landlords; federal and provincial government ministries and agencies; utility providers; employers; financial institutions; police fire and emergency services; individuals and organizations who make complaints to TCH.
All such information contributes to the conclusion as to whether a person is given rental accommodations, and this is why a tenant’s actions toward others should be kept in mind: Do unto others as you would like done to you.
As we look around, many homeless people should not be in that position, but due to someone’s action, we see the person or persons gone mentally insane or have given up on trying. It is time for us to be kind to each other.
TRANSPARENCY
Once a tenant informs the Tenant Rep/ Tenant coordinator of discriminated actions against them, their duty should be to inform and connect the harassed tenant with services and support to help maintain their tenancy. Facilitate access to services and support for the benefit of low-income households.
To eliminate or reduce the risk of harm to the health and safety of another who may require access to TCH property to investigate an incident involving the safety or security of people, facilities, assets, and insurance claims.
To promote public safety and reduce incidents of crime on TCH property.
WITHIN REASON
Neighbors who harass others should be informed, and friends who abide by and assist them in harassing other tenants, friends of such ones, should be banned from the building. When caught in the building, the neighbor should be fined or removed after being informed by twice-written notices.
Treat everyone equally to avoid acts of discrimination. Everyone must respect the dignity and rights of others within reason.
As much as I have not been seen blogging, I was busy reading your posts. WordPress.com news: Jeremy Anderberg, the book reviews. Much to do about writing: Amloughrey, Our Social Issues by Dr. Damon Ashworth, and Becoming the Muse by Beaton, just to mention a few.
Our days are so short, in my view, things I intend to do coupled with my physical issues. Before I can get a grip, the day is over. I even find myself eating later than usual, with a bit of guilt for doing so.
In bringing everyone up to date on my absence, I was busy attending to my deceased sister’s estate, spending time away from the quiet surroundings, and mentally peaceful state of mind gained in my own home where I can concentrate on goals dear to me, bringing me to tell of my journey to being published.
Until My Dying Day has been in the creation for many years, prompted by an abused relationship. Due to working and looking for work caused by termination or being laid off because of some rule or the other not being followed (I was misbehaving…lol), my writing had to be put off for weeks, months to years. Nothing before God’s time, as the saying goes. I completed the book—a memoir, during the pandemic. Finally finished, I sought a publisher. “Keep on knocking, and it shall be open.” –Matthew 7:7. Yes, someone is bound to open up to you when they take a little time to read you. You could say my presentation got me through the door when I knocked.
During my journey, I found no matter how clear and to a point you are in communication, somewhere along the line, your expressed words will be misconstrued or not considered. One can conclude that a grudge is a grudge, and a vendetta is a vendetta. And, going past the attitude a person is forced to deal with, at times, may or will cause you to give up. Mental strength is essential, as belief in your work and what you offer is your top priority. Any weakness will see the victory of the perpetrator.
I found out during this journey why so many companies fail. They fail because management lacks the insight to appropriately sort the players [their employees] with like-minded ones, especially when a company may be culturally diverse. Instead, you have some in management under the influence of the “I am management, do as I say” mentality, faltering at what works. So, instead of quality producers, they get quantity, not fit. They lose projects and profits, having to reduce staff. Eventually, hanging on to survive, to the point where the company is forced to close shop.
Most recently, I discovered AI. Oh yeah, I am one of the latecomers.
AI, the new game changer, has much to offer the user with the amount of time, and time spent creating an effective and forceful document or correspondence with someone. However, I found as much as AI has become the next person in the room, if not focused on reality, it causes some to become less in touch with humankind, and so their attitude toward others lacks compassion.
My journey ends with success. As I accommodated attitudes and adapted to changes with diligent prayers, requesting for those still asleep to become awake to see what their actions are doing to others, I can safely conclude that my Lord helped in giving me the mental strength needed to stay my course. Therefore, with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for a safe journey back to my blog, I say it’s good to be back at my desk with time to write to you who are reading this post. Have a wonderful day!
WELCOME to my blog, those new to my website and old readers. Please have a seat and let us get into this a topic that concerns each of us. Please feel free to leave your comments below.
This post is an extension on, a voice from the dead. My thoughts expressed what is the state of the dead; are we able to communicate with the dead, and things we should do before death.
Death is an expectation, yet an unwelcome expectation when a loved one dies. Recently, as you and I read the news in every country, in every nation death is a never-ending topic. It is also not unusual in these times, as people’s attitudes change, to hear many talks about dreaming of deaths.
Note this may be a dream that indicate a challenge we must confront.
Some have set themselves up websites to counsel, console, and prepare those dying, even making it a party celebration of the person passing [as it should be] a joyous occasion for the one who (may) had been in pain for days, months, and years. But the very thought of not [seeing] them again is what gives pain to our souls, especially if words kept within were not expressed in letting them know of your forgiveness or love for them.
Grief is something we will all go through, and no one can tell someone how they should grieve. However, in all you do remember to let your heart and not your head determine how you feel. Share your memories. And most importantly, take care of yourself.
Within the span of five years, I have had the opportunity to witness five deaths among my family members and relatives. And like Jesus, I was moved to tears, John 11:35. However, like Martha, I know that there will be a resurrection, Revelation 20:4-5. What I don’t know is whether they will be granted life eternity in the New World that is promise in Revelation 21:1.
However, until a loved one dies many families don’t know the extent of end-of-life options, including the details of cremation, traditional burial, and the selection of a final resting place. This I found out from experience within my own family. I have gone to funerals before, but never thought of the details involved. My first experience was my mother’s funeral. My sisters were the ones that washed and prepared mom for burial, (as they did Patsy, told she burped). The manner in preparation is much different from the way other countries prepare the dead for burial, so the cost was not surmountable.
During a conversation with an acquaintance on death, I made known this fact that is affecting life on our planet, the improper burial of our dead. Although we must give thanks to the creator for the arrangements of the universe, in the way the sun, moon, and stars give energy, light, and the right gases for our planet’s sustaining life; there is no doubt that man has created, has done, and is doing many things in the manner that will eventually destroy us, unless changes are implemented.
Global Pandemics that see the death of thousands [in my opinion] should be cremated. Hear me out, before getting defensive. These are diseases that are uncurable and even with the procedure done to the dead before burial it is not enough in support for the health of the earth from which our foods and drinking water come. Of course, each of us has the choice to choose how we are buried after expired, and there should be no judging. However, whether by cremation or six feet in the ground the end results we return to ashes.
THE MANNER OF BURIAL EFFECT ON OUR PLANET
People experience many different ways of death; some by drownings, some by fire, some by beheadings, and some by natural death. It doesn’t matter in what way one dies; God is able to resurrect that one from the manner in which he died. Faith is the assured expectation of things promise. Hebrews 11:1. As Christians we are given a new commandment, that is to love each other. When someone loves another, they look out for that one’s best interest. However, unlike Jesus, not everyone is willing to lay down his life on behalf of his brother. This laying down that I speak of is in the manner in which the person is laid to rest. Times have changed, and in laying down our life [in death] should be with the thought of our loved ones left to live on this earth. Many talk about leaving a planet worth living on for the future of our children, well, the only way that will happen is through education, and doing the right things. For further thoughts you may read, Is our planet doomed? At www.WordPress@Bettertheend.ca
Throughout the centuries man has not come to the realization that what they keep doing, from the improper burial of the dead, is in effect producing stronger and bigger Superbugs, strains of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that are resistant to most of the antibiotic, and other medications commonly used to treat the infections that they cause. Throughout the centuries, superbugs infect more than 2 million people and killed at least 23,000 people nationwide. Because of their immunity to antibiotics, it becomes vital to take precautions to prevent them from spreading diseases.
ESTIMATED COST
Some of you may be surprised, but statistic shows more and more are choosing cremation due to financial reason. Secondly, unavailable cemetery lots. I have found that the cost for a Traditional funeral can start from approximately 3,500$ to 10,000$. Cremation on the other hand is much less costly starting from 1,595$ in most places in the States and Canada. In Canada cremation with final viewing is an estimate of 3,275$ and Cremation with memorial service an estimate of 3,600$. On top of that, the after gathering can run up another 1,000$ or more depending on the number of catered guests.
PREPARATION OF THE DEAD
Preserving the body has roots to ancient Egypt as early as 6000 BC. Only today, some of those traditional method is not applied, but the procedure remains the same. The job of an Embalmer…
First the body is washed in a disinfectant and the limbs are massaged.
Secondly, the eyes are closed using glue or plastic eye caps that holds them in place.
Thirdly, the lower jaw is secured by wires or sewing. Once the jaw is secured the mouth can be manipulated into the desire position.
Fourth, the blood is removed from the body and replaced with formaldehyde-based chemicals through the arteries, this may also contain glutaraldehyde methanol, ethanol, phenol, water and dyes. After the arterial embalming the body’s cavities must be embalmed as well. So, a small incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen and a trocar (a sharp surgical instrument) is inserted into the body cavity. The organs in the chest cavity and the abdomen are then punctured and drained of gas and fluid contents. Formaldehyde-based chemicals are subsequently injected, and once the incision is sutured, the body is fully embalmed.
Once complete an appropriate amount of cosmetics are applied. The deceased hair is washed and set as per the family’s request, dressed and the body is placed by a Mortician or Embalmer into a casket prepared for visitation, service or cremation.
THE STAGES OF HUMAN BODY DECOMPOSITION AND TIMELINE
Cremation vs. Traditional burial only has to do with the time of decomposition. Either way, from dust we came and to dust we shall return—Genesis 3:19
Decomposition begins around four minutes after a person dies and follows four stages of decomposing.
The first is known as Autolysis, which begins immediately after death.
The second stage is Bloating to the body as leaked enzyme’s from the first stage begin producing many gases, that gives the body a bloating look from the sulfur-containing compounds that the bacteria releases and can cause skin discoloration. In addition, insect activity can be present.
The third stage is Active Decay, organs, muscles, and skin become liquefied. Hair, bones, and cartilage and other by products remain.
The fourth stage, Skeletonization.
Decomposition varies due to weather, temperature, moisture, PH, and oxygen level.
24-72 hours after death the internal organs decompose.
3-5 days after death the body starts to bloat and blood containing foam leaks from the mouth and nose.
8-10 days after death the body turns from green to red as the blood decomposes and the organs in the abdomen accumulate gas.
8-10 days after death the body turns from green to red as the blood decomposes and the organs in the abdomen accumulate gas.
1 month after death the body starts to liquefy.
Whatever choice chosen may it be for the love of Christ, and your fellow men left behind!
For further information on this topic find below a few links and videos, especially the first that extends on my thoughts highlighting scriptural viewpoints of God’s word.
Welcome to my #blog. Have a seat and let me get right into part two. I hope you were all able to gather some information from part one, regards to Bylaws in place for feeding wildlife and how many pets an apartment dweller is allowed to have in buildings, by going onto the website.
ANGEL’S ADAPTION MY FEAR FOR LIFE
The turmoil and trauma of the pandemic has pushed many into new ways of thinking, new career choices, and a new way of protecting ourselves. During isolation many like myself have looked inward to analyze their lives, for their anger, and stress to overcome or have to handle due to loss of a job, a home, a spouse, a loved one, and even their own lack of tolerance towards others selfish, aggressive behaviors. With time on hand some have done as I have, turned to others to find comfort and coping mechanisms through their written work and videos. And has found our resilience to repair and rebuild lies in the power of our thoughts; used in the right way.
FAILED COMMUNICATION
Communication is a two-way street, you speak, I listen before responding. When this simple rule is not followed confusion happens, and tempers flare. In today’s society I find this simple rule is neglected by so many due to our troubled minds. Our minds are so stressed out, that respect is lost during communication with another.
In my defense, I truly tried to get to the question asks of me, why am I feeding the birds, to making peace with the tenant’s request besides my unit, to avoid the dirty water getting on to her porch when cleaning. However, in all attempts and written letters personally delivered to the units above, besides, and below me, seen the police at my door on New Year’s Day. I don’t know what recordings were shown to the officer, but for those whose eyes are on my activity can see that FOR YEARS, only two birds after the white one disappeared have been coming onto the balcony.
What I have notice with confrontations in life is this, it only takes one person to start a fire, and the weak of mind follows. I have never had a problem with anyone until the tenant next to my unit moved in. And with all I did in keeping my surroundings clean and my safety concerned conscious, when the deeds of the wicked ones were being done during my absence, no one notice as to alert my attention. I tell you those in society that try to do good, and are honest, are always given a difficult time.
Not so far off from the species of animals not only do we use our instinct—natural skills, but with our intellect we are able to reason and understand if not done through research or reading, that a problem exists from our observation of our surroundings. Our training from infancy is what separates some of us from a majority who is still in that psychosis mode from the entertainment industry who pushes that survival is to be brutal, competitive, selfish, and aggressive; is the norm. And so, our human life continues to exists with wars among us because the mind is blocked from freedom to cure the intellect urge to be brutal, competitive selfish and aggressive. And until the mind is unblocked by first our admittance that we are suffering from a conscious psychological mind base trouble conditioning these behaviors will forever continue. Secondly, understanding we have the power to change these behaviors by our understanding of the WHAT triggers. If not done, hatred will forever be shown by some towards others and especially those not of one’s nationality due to underlining racism.
DOUG FORD’S BUILDING PROJECTS
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION EVERYWHERE.
Bill 23 devastating impacts on Ontario water system is threatening humans and wildlife. The Walkerton tragedy was a brutal reminder of the dangers created when humans ignore the risks posed by our natural world. There’s no doubt that Toronto needs more housing and affordable ones; for those living in poverty, who try to maintain their responsibility with what they earn from a full-time job, a part-time job, or an occasional job. Then there are the homeless, some who are still trying with what little financial support they get to support themselves through the difficult times they have found themselves. While others could care less [who makes it difficult for others], that even with some buildings as shelters; we all can agree needs more, especially during the winter months although some refuse to occupy them due to the filth [from those with a don’t care attitude].
As much as Doug Ford’s building project is geared to a better Toronto’s future occupancy and help for those helping themselves, the problem lies in our drinking water and air. Overpopulation, the air becomes polluted, and our drinking water becomes contaminated. And I am not the only one who has complained about this problem (in a way the pandemic moved many to look at the problem with our environment and the cause effect) which has moved management to replace pipes in my building, and the city to look at underground pipes and sewage drainage.
“‘The most fundamental lesson learned from Walkerton is how much we rely on the health of our environment for our own wellbeing,’” Environmental Defense wrote in 2020. “‘It also shows us that what happens on the land impacts our water. It’s all part of an interconnected system. Our drinking water comes from the lakes and groundwater aquifers near our communities. Those freshwater sources are vulnerable to threats if strong environmental rules aren’t followed,”’ reported in The Pointer.
These warnings came before the PC government introduced its recent swath of legislation centered on Bill 23, Doug Ford’s housing plan which will replace and loss the habitat that house protected species.
The most crucial element of our environment being overlooked is water itself. Here is Andrew McCammon’s explanation: “‘The water filtrates through sand and gravel and it becomes underground, clear filtered and cooled water which emerges elsewhere,’” President of the Ontario Headwaters Institute. Therefore, with all the buildings’ construction this will surely affect our water system.
Thanks for your time spent reading my blog. For more information, listed below you will find additional information on Bill23. Stay tune for Angel’s frustration and my motherly concern for her weight loss.
For all animal lovers, welcome, have a seat, as I share some information on the conspiracy to destroy.
The building located in the downtown neighborhood, surrounded by developing high rises. Some soon occupied as they were finish, others still not finish due to perhaps financial difficulties on the owners part or not enough potential homeowners purchases may have contributed to construction incomplete.
From apartment 316, the view to the lake across to the Island now blocked by buildings erected for the collage students dorms and study rooms. The park and other places which were once the flying creatures habitat among the downtown core now taken over by newly constructed buildings saw their food supply diminish as the years went on with more constructed high rises.
I moved from the second floor to the third and was on suspicious alert of the #birds in the tree (that had to be cut years later due to parts of its rotting branches) and on the balcony with the exception of one, who I thought belonged to someone for the way it staked out the apartment and my activities within. It was different from the others—white in color, having the appearance of a dove; this was its home and only two others were allowed to join it on the porch. Over the months we had become friends. I would feed them ever so often and all attempts to capture it failed. Shown signs that its foot was hurt made it impossible to gain its human concerned care. I understood how pain can cause one to lose trust, and even move one to madness, but with each new day given opportunity to capture and get [it] to an animal vet for care, failed. In conversation with one tenant on the floor above informed me she tried to do the same—capture it, for her grand-daughter. However, one day they were not seen, and the next, and the next. It is said that you do not miss the water until the well goes dry. And in a philosophical way I missed them, we had become friends away from the office. My thought was they had formed a plan to find [the white one’s] owner, the reason for their absence.
A few months later, they were back but not with the one I believed to be a dove, perhaps they had helped in finding [its] home. So, the cycle of feeding began once more. Whether they were fed or not, apartment 316 was their home. Many nights (Angel—the name given her) slept on her own. This is known from my observation of her. She sometimes would settle in within the plant pot or cozy up next to the broom and other items on the balcony. In the morning her mate would join her, and they would fly off in search of food. Wherever they went soon they’ll return to occupy the balcony. For hours they sit together, play with each other and do as I do—observe the surroundings. Once in a while flying off to join their peers to later return. No matter the weather Angel, was on the balcony.
On March 26, 2022, I woke to see her with an egg and a few days after on March 28, 2022, with another. An emergency trip to the States came up and I had to leave, but ask the folks I worked for to look in on her once in a while. The nights were a bit cold, so I put the plant-pot in a cardboard box and covered part of the top, to keep her warm. I came back in May to find her little ones hatched, so I removed them into a larger box and would look them after for her until, one day the superintendent came and removed them due to complaints from the neighbors.
LOOKING INTO ANGEL’S HISTORY
There is a variety of species all known as pigeons. Despite the history of pigeons, city pigeons today are seen as pests, mainly due to their droppings. Feral pigeons are considered invasive in many parts of the world. Pigeons have served key roles as food, pets, holy animals, post carriers, and more for thousands of years. The earliest record mention of pigeon comes from Mesopotamia some 5,000 years ago. Ancient Egyptians kept vast quantities of them, and would sacrifice tens of thousands at a time for ritual purposes. They were introduced to the Americas about 400 years ago, as they were not native to the New World. Around the 18th century, interest in fancy pigeons began, and breeders greatly expanded the variety of pigeons.
DOMESTIC PIGEONS The domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) is a pigeon subspecies that was derived from the rock dove (also called the rock pigeon). The rock pigeon is the world’s oldest domesticated bird. Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets mention the domestication of pigeons more than 5,000 years ago, as do Egyptian hieroglyphics. Research suggests that domestication of pigeons occurred as early as 10,000 years ago. Pigeons have made contributions of considerable importance to humanity, especially in times of war. In war the homing ability of pigeons has been put to use by making them messengers. So-called war pigeons have carried many vital messages, and some have been decorated for their services. Medals such as the Croix de Guerre, awardee to Cher Ami, and the Dickin Medal awarded to the pigeons G.I.Joe, and Paddy, amongst 32 others, have been awarded to pigeons for their services in saving human lives. Despite the long history of pigeons, little is known about their initial domestication. What is known comes from written accounts, which certainly do not cover the first stages of domestication because domestic and feral pigeons have extensively interbred with wild pigeons, and this frequent breeding further muddies the true origins of pigeons. From a genetic perspective, there are two loose ancestral clades of pigeons, but there is striking genetic homogeneity due to frequent interbreeding and human directed crossbreeding. The first ancestral clade contains pigeons with exaggerated crops, tails, manes; the second contains tumblers (the most diverse group), homing pigeons owl pigeons, and those with exaggerated wattles.
GROUP OF PIGEONS Trained domestic pigeons are able to return to the home loft if released at a location that they have never visited before and that may be up to 1,000 km (620 mi) away. This ability to return home from strange location is called “map sense” is their geographic location. The second, “compass sense” is the bearing they need to fly from their new location in order to reach their home. Both senses, however, respond to a number of different cues in different situations. The most popular conception is that they are able to sense the Earth’s magnetic field with tiny magnetic tissues in their head (magnetoception). Another theory is that pigeons have compass sense, which uses the position of the sun, along with an internal clock, to work out direction. However even with disruption or clock changes disruption of these senses the pigeons still manage to get home. The variability in the effects of manipulations indicated that there is more than one cue on which navigation is based and that map sense appears to rely on a comparison of available cues.
A special breed, called homing pigeons, has been developed through selective breeding to carry messages, and members of this variety of pigeon are still being used in the sport of pigeon racing and the white release dove ceremony at weddings and funerals. Pigeons are also kept by enthusiasts for the enjoyment of flying/sporting competitions. Breeds such as tipplers are flown in endurance contests by their owners.
EXPERIMENTS Have shown pigeons to have the capacity to share attention between different dimensions of a stimulus, but (like humans and other animals) their performance with multiple dimensions is worse than with a single stimulus dimension. ➢ Pigeons can be taught relatively complex actions and response sequences, and can learn to make responses in different sequences. ➢ Pigeons can discriminate between other individual pigeons, and can use the behavior of another individual as a cue to tell them what response to make. ➢ Pigeons readily learn to make discriminative responses to different categories of stimuli, defined either by arbitrary rules (e.g., green triangles) or by human concepts (e.g., pictures of human beings). ➢ Pigeons seem to have difficulty in dealing with problems involving classes of classes. Thus, they do not do very well with the isolation of a relationship among variables, as against a representation of a set of exemplars. ➢ Pigeons can remember large numbers of individual images for a long time, e.g., hundreds of images for periods of several years. ➢ Pigeons have unusual, perhaps unique, abilities to learn routes back to their home from long distances. This homing behavior is different from that of birds that learn migration routes, which usually occurs over a fixed route at fixed times of the year.
LOOKING INTO THE LAW
The City reviewed the Animal Bylaw to improve the coexistence of humans and wildlife and will be exploring the option to restrict most feeding on all private and public properties across Toronto. For more in-depth information http://www.toronto.ca/animalbylaw Currently feeding wildlife is prohibited across City parks. New rules as to limits to the number of pets permitted to own will go into effect on December 1, 2022. As of April 1, 2023, feeding wildlife will be prohibited across Toronto and on private properties.
WHAT ANGEL HAS TAUGHT ME
Humans and animals alike are created with the need for companionship. Some animals like humans will compete for a mate of choosing, and they will fight to the death or that of being injured that calls or sees a truce. Whether we fight and achieve our desire or loss to walk away, there still exists that need to be loved and to give love. Some of us will never be faithful to one mate, as the need to give and receive of love is to be fulfilled by multiple partners. And then jealousy arises among both males and females. Can animals feel the pain of losing a loved one or the pain of rejection? They do. For since their return, it seemed to me Angel was really missing the white one, and as much as her companion tried to console her she seemed not to care. So, he came back and forth to be with her, but come late evening he would be gone, to be back the next day.
I observe the pair, unlike humans they do not remain in mental confrontation or battle with the one who has captured “their” man’s or woman’s attention. They fly away in search of another who will appreciate and love them for them. Adapting such an attitude, life can be lived in happiness. The unnecessary wars among us could be avoided if we first knew how to love ourselves. Then we will be able not only to love another, but receive rejection kindly.
Angel and I will continue to share unit 316. However, feeding her on the balcony will no longer be done—as my word, is my bond of honor. Between she and I, she knows when she alerts me that she is hungry when I leave the apartment where she will find her food.
Stay tune for part 2, of Angel’s adapting to a new attitude, and information on how Doug Ford’s building projects will affect the downtown health of the less fittest. With love I leave you all blessings and hope to see you on the next #blog.
If you were to have Breakfast with me: I will tell you that respect is blinded by appearance; people fail to look. So, it is with what they hear; they fail to read.
I will tell you that when one skillful hears a wise word he will commend it, and add upon it. But when one of no understanding hears it, he is displeased and casts it aside.
I will tell you there’s a Supreme One above that sees all things, hears our cries and steps in when man least expects his victory.
I will tell you patience with one’s self give knowledge of the works/deeds of the wicked which gives credit to their father Satan—a liar and a manslayer. That there is a difference between one righteous and one wicked, both children of God; sides are chosen.
I will tell you our fight is against the toys man has made for our enjoyment and convenience. That technology has taken control of some people’s lives, and they fail to have self-control; are allured by them.
I will tell you each day a story is told of our lives, lived by someone else.
Welcome! Hope all had a wonderful holiday, and I am going to get to what’s on my mind for us in the new year.
Many of us know how to spend our monies. Only a few look for bargains; some know how to bargain down a cost, while others could care less about the price. This could be because they are within wealth, or where the monies come from, they do not labour to have it. Those of us who know what it is like to live in poverty or whose labour is not compensated enough to afford our wants will only spend what we know we can afford, and will check every purchase receipt and bank statement to be sure we have enough to cover our monthly responsibilities. While others with a callous attitude could care less about their duties and only choose those which are an advantage to their livelihood; covers, or steal to cover them.
Those with a disregard fail to realize that all living things are linked to a food source to deal with others. Therefore, when Peter is not paid for services rendered to Paul, and Paul is unable to pay Peter, who is unable to pay the Piper for his services rendered, and the Piper has to deduct funds from his account sees a depletion of his livelihood; soon, with each month’s occurrence of this, everyone loses as creditors become (mean), the word some uses to describe a lender who denies a borrower’s application for a loan. Soon the bank raises interest rates, and investments slow down because it is not the right time to invest. Then business owners raise prices to cover their responsibilities, and lack of consumer spending sees a staggering economy where the fittest of the fittest are the ones to survive.
NOT GOING TO BE AN EASY YEAR IN 2013
Thinking that the Government’s benefits entitled will always be there is a shallow mindset of the less educated. When consumers cannot spend, creditors are not paid, and investments are at a stand-sill. The Government will do one of two things: either cut funding for benefits or make it challenging to receive them. Not long ago, this was the case with parents’ children with autism. However, when a majority own up to their responsibilities, society sees good, and livelihood becomes vibrant.
An issue we all face is the cost of living. This is an important problem for society as a whole, especially for those that spend what they do not have. We only have one life to live, so live it as you can. That is an understatement. Yes, we only have one life to live, but we must live it responsibly.
In looking ahead, here are some changes that will affect us in 2023
New tax brackets to help Canadians keep up with inflation. The Federal Government has adjusted tax breaks for the 2022 tax year, with each bracket seeing a slight increase from the 2021 threshold.
Basic Personal Amount increase, this is a refundable tax credit that can be claimed by anyone who files income taxes in Canada.
A first-time home buyers tax credit, known as HBTC, a Federal Government initiative, is double. They are making homeownership more affordable for some Canadians.
Old Age Security Income, known as OAS, is a government program created to provide retired Canadians with a source of income to help throughout retirement. Seniors whose income was too much may be asked to pay back some of their OAS.
Canadian Pension Plan earnings and contributions are due to increase in 2023. This means the Employee and Employer contribution rate is now 5.9% (up from 5.70%) for a maximum contribution of $3754.45. For self-employed individuals, the contribution rate will be 11.90% in 2023 (up from 11.40% in 2022) for a maximum of $7508.90.
The Registered Retirement Saving Plan, known as the RRSP dollar limit, has increased. However, the individual contribution limit is still capped at 8% of the entire income.
COVID-19 benefit repayment. Those who received COVID-19 benefits in 2022 will receive a T4A slip with all the required information needed for their Tax Return. In some cases, individuals making more than $38,000.00 in income may have to pay back part, or all of the benefits received. Refusal to repay may result in CRA keeping some or all future payments, including Tax Refunds and GST/HST credits.
Keep in mind the CRA will work with you if payment cannot be made in full, and file your Income Tax on time to avoid penalties—the deadline for most is April 30, 2023.
MISTAKES HAPPEN, TIS THE SEASON
There’s an uplifting of what we, collectively, must do for those less educated and mentally challenged by giving our learnt skills, acquired knowledge and wealth—exercising a caring attitude to see others treated fairly within society.
Politicians and Governments now is the time to stop a selective way of thinking towards certain cultures and try to help where you can to see the person’s treated fairness within society. Balance is needed in decision making [this must be attained—understanding], and acceptance of those affected by decisions given; a weighing of the scales that it is not unbalance in your circumstance. If it is, then fight within the law, hoping that those sitting on benches in judgment use logic in a fair sentence of (your) matter.
The other day, I stumbled on a free movie on YouTube titled The Good Neighbor, a thriller released in 2016. The film is about two friends whose idea turned into an experiment with an elderly single man whose wife died of cancer; lived alone across the street. The movie is interesting and a bit funny; it shows humans’ tendency to push themselves and others beyond their limits. Left to an individual’s free will to stop whenever desired, it is not the same when being driven by another to your victory, that is theirs indirectly. This movie, however, was not a victory for the elderly neighbor in competition of a game. Secret intentions of one friend’s abusive family past injected into the experiment resulted in the psychological effect on the neighbor to the point of delusion that led to his death.
The movie is given a thumbs up for its written content. A thumbs down for the lack of self-control and mental balance neither of the characters were forced to show the other. Sending the message what is done in the dark is all well and good. And that was not all; the conclusion displayed how juries are often misled by the rule of law, which releases criminals back into society and places those innocent of crimes behind bars.
The Good Neighbor reflects similar situations I presently endure within my building unit. I became suspicious on the first day of requesting cable service and being denied. After pleading my case with the company, I told them that what happened with the previous tenant had nothing to do with me. I was later approved to be given service. This was between 2006 and 2007 when I moved up to a new unit in the building.
While I was busy trying to meet my responsibilities, I often came home to find lights left on due to me coming in late at nights to find them off. I know it happens to the best of us; we become forgetful at times. In my book Until My Dying Day, I touched on memory loss due to Transient global amnesia, which is a sudden loss of memory one can recover from within 24 hours. Most suffer from this type of memory loss, and long-term memory is similar in nature.
Getting back to the point of discussion. While the reoccurring incidents continued, I started to monitor the situation and myself. Another reason for the Chapter in my book: You watching me, watching you, which is also the title topic of a Facebook post of mine. However, while monitoring the situation, I discovered my memory was indeed in tip-top shape. Laugh-out-loud. The laugh was on the ones responsible for their wicked deeds. They did not stop with the lights; they were trying to send my mind into mental chaos, for at other times, the unit door would be unlocked in coming home. On many occasions, call for the building security and police showed me as forgetful. Situations became so stressful at home, with business associates, and socially that I began isolating myself from others. I was partly thankful for a pandemic restricting outdoor activities and social gatherings.
Once in a while, I must leave the unit for a part-time job I am fortunate to still hold. However, this year has seen me less often at work due to suffering from a painful rick and overly tiredness. Now, more advanced in ways of manipulation, they are into my computer’s work and sounds within the unit at times. The Good Neighbor is up-in-your-face bold aggression of those unaware of their illness. An illness known as Conduct Disorder. It is a mental disorder of childhood or adolescence characterized by repetitive and persistent violations of the rights of others and of social norms and rules. This includes bullying, aggressive, or threatening behavior towards people and animals, deliberate destruction of property, deceitfulness, or theft, with the behavior causing significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.
The good book advises in Matthew 5: 44 that I should keep praying for those who are my enemies, which I continue to do. With the question: when will they stop my Lord!
Reality and Fantasies
I wish I hadn’t broke that dish, I wish I was a movie-star. I wish a lot of things, I wish That life was like the movies are. -A.P HERBERT, It May Be Life, But Ain’t it Slow?
From my family’s situation comes this post. Observation from a few visits after years of separation; her immigrating to the United States and me to Canada. Visits to her home caused me to see how her environment and the people within it shaped her way of thinking, actions, and perceptions. Subconsciously unknown, she had developed some of the illnesses and disorders this post addresses that affect so many today within society because of lack of treatment, knowledge, and drug abuse.
Many around the globe daily flee their land of birth or migrate to another country to restart their life. In doing so they embrace new environments, new cultures, new beliefs, new laws, and different behaviors from where they came from. Life especially for grownups is an adaptation in learning new things and teaching their young ones who are more apt to move with the flow, how to fit into a society different from where they are coming from. However, years within your new environment working and living among its people can unconsciously take a toll on your system, especially when faced with challenging situations that bring the onset of unknown illnesses and disorders never heard of before. Such as Bipolar symptoms, Autism, Psychotic behaviors, and weakening of the nerves; a list that could include other conditions. With these illnesses or symptoms, it is not unusual to find some within a society whose level of tolerance is not the same as yours and whose approach or actions confuses you to comment: What is your problem? Or in conversation: He/ she has a problem?
HEALTHCARE AND OUR ENVIRONMENT
There’s no doubt that our healthcare within Canada and countries abroad are bogged-down with overworked nurses and doctors that proper healthcare is not given. As Ontario continues to grow, we need better access to important social services that are not seen as of 2022. Doug Ford’s latest tweet on Twitter on August 16, stated that his government hired over 10,500 healthcare workers in 2020, and on top of those 4,500 net new nurses were added to the system. Yet there is an overwhelming concern among the public as many hospitals has patients still experiencing long wait periods for emergency surgery, and overcrowded emergency room.
Therefore, it is up to you, me; collectively, we become knowledgeable on types of disorders and illnesses, in order to protect ourselves while we accommodate each other. Not all these disorders and illnesses mention above are heredity; many are from our environment, and the people we associate with. Knowledge from which your circumstances stem gives a cure to your mental and physical body’s health. The sooner attention is given to your circumstances the faster you can navigate your reaction to mental perceived comments from others, seen appearances, or actions of others.
BIPOLAR disorder—manic depression, is a mental illness that causes shifts in moods, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. With this disorder, many genes are involved and no one gene can cause the disorder. Research at San Francisco VA Medical Center indicates bipolar disorder progressively damages the brain. – May 6, 2003.
Symptoms experienced are uniquely personal, and are overwhelming joy, excitement, happiness, huge energy, and reduced need for sleep.
A parent or sibling with bipolar disorder are highly stressed and tend to abuse drug and alcohol.
PSYCHOTIC disorders are severe mental disorders that cause abnormal thinking and perception.
Symptoms—delusions and hallucinations—are two main symptoms affecting an individual’s reaction to others within society as a feeling of paranoia and suspicion is present. With this mental distorted perception, they withdraw from family, friends, and loved ones. There is a sudden drop in school, work, or job performance. And there is a disinterest in personal grooming.
Triggers and episodes are from physical illness or injury. People with schizophrenia—a mental disorder that causes hallucination and delusions, and bipolar disorder experiencing high fever, head injury, or lead or mercury poisoning may hear or see things. And not knowing how to control their reaction during an episode will tend to be violent or abusive.
AUTISM spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. This disorder can be diagnosed at any age and is described as a ‘developmental disorder’ because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life.
Signs of this disorder is noted in the child not responding to their name; avoiding eye contact; not smiling when you smile at them; not talking as much as other children, or getting upset by certain smells, taste, or sighted objects.
WEAKEN NERVES is due to deficiencies in nutrients such as B6 and B12 vitamins. Damage can be caused by excessive alcohol ingestion or develop after gastric surgery.
Signs of weakened nerves are dropping of objects; muscle weakness in arms or legs; numbness or tingling in the hands or feet; sharp pains in hands, arms, legs, or feet.
Healing is within 6-12 weeks once rested, but there are things a person can do to maintain strength, and that are regular exercise; getting plenty of sleep; lots of sunlight; watching your diet, and a meditation routine.
CHOICE TO BETTER HEALTH
These listed illnesses and disorders mentioned earlier are not all heredity, our environment, and those we associate with can be the cause. Knowledge helps in how well we are able to communicate and handle other peoples’ actions or reactions to what say to them. In my book—Until My Dying Day—I touched briefly on the observation of my family’s situation that stemmed from some of the people my sister, with dealt. Her profession was in real estate. Managing a business can be stressful, and having to deal with people whose callous attitude toward their responsibility interjects into your financial health, a situation that causes stress becomes manic depression.
Those whose genetic makeup is like mine, who are spiritually active during their visions or dreams—known as Astro-travel–that experience physical damage; it comes to this—the type of exercise implemented into your daily routine or choice of sport needs careful selection, along with a healthy balanced diet. Daily or weekly meditation along with outdoor activities helps with mental focus. You, also need to educate yourself, foremost on God’s word which gives light to understanding people, and the spiritual realm. Research on the type of disorders, and illnesses, as you watch how your body reacts to the environment.
I knew of a married brother in my religious organization whose wife suffered physically for years due to the environment—informed by their doctor—having to move to another province. I do not know of her condition due to not having any contact since told of his decision to move; hope that she is in good health.
This incident is mentioned to prove the importance of becoming aware of our environment, its people, and those we have in our lives, as the cause of depression, stress, disorders, or illnesses is sought; before consulting doctors for treatment or drugs that may help, if not physically or psychologically damage you.
Sometimes all it takes for good health, peace, and joy is to eliminate certain foods and people from our lives.
WITH MUCH THANKS I hope you, who took the time to read this post are enlightened on how best to adapt to your environment, and its people by first looking at your own circumstances
Better The End 
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