PICTURE PERFECT

BLINDED BY LOVE… and the lessons it leaves behind.

Love can be beautiful—but also painful. Part 1, Chapter 10 of Until My Dying Day shares how we lose ourselves in relationships that hurt. It also highlights the strength it takes to hold on to who we are.

We often ignore red flags, rationalize disrespect, and confuse lust for love. But real love? It’s not a game. It’s a commitment. And it starts with knowing ourselves.

This chapter ends with a dream—a right hand, open and raised. A sign of blessing. And I believe that even in heartbreak, there is a blessing. In truth. In growth. In letting go.

“All relationships are lessons—not to grow in height, but in strength.”

BLINDED BY LOVE…Part 1, Chapter 10

REPEATED OFTEN IS THIS: love is a hurting thing, and it sure is. We wonder why we put ourselves in the position of being hurt. We also wonder why we keep accepting their treatment of us that hurts. Additionally, we question why we accept their actions that show disrespect for our dislikes. On contemplating these possibilities, it becomes clear. When our desires take over, we lose our sense of self-worth in the battle for sanity. All we see before our needs are met through the insanity of our mind; we logically rationalize what is wrong as right. It takes strength to not only let go of one’s emotional hurt that causes us to act insane but to maintain one’s true character.

Love, no doubt, makes you feel happy, and from within, it shows on the outside. The contentment felt and the self-confidence gained from the other believing in you and what you stand for is like a flame that keeps your energy flowing. But love is also painful. It is stressful. Yes, getting to know someone is a task as it is a joy. It is a joy from the little games played just to see how the other would react, and stress from habits the other has that irritate you.

Being able to recognize lust—a strong desire to possess and enjoy, or love—a strong feeling of affection, or passionate devotion, is important. Taking time to examine the feelings of the differences is crucial to one’s happiness. Make no mistake: Come see me and live with me are two different situations. Another, what you see is what you get. For years I have watched my sister’s relationship with her husband and felt for her the loneliness she must feel, though her emotions she hid “like mother like daughters,” goes the saying [as mother was the same]. My observation has concluded that perhaps she appreciated the little moments they shared more than worrying about his absences. Perhaps, life is to live this way— acknowledging that nothing is forever, except for the air we breathe; appreciating the time spent, short or long, the conditions—good or bad—we treasure, taking something learnt with us.

A television show called The Maury show. It is a show that interviews partnerships, among other topics, and repeatedly shows how people will lie to one another to keep the person or break up another’s relationship. Jealousy, which is often triggered by another’s actions, is not always a sign of weakness. A person incited to jealousy is one fit in mind and body who doesn’t necessarily care about the result of their reaction. Truths are only being revealed because of guilt of having kept a secret from the person they “claim” to love, friends with or doubt of the other’s sincerity; that truth is sought by either a DNA test or a lie detector test. Sometimes, the outcome hurts the individual seeking the truth, and their actions are often deplorable.

Yes, there is no avoiding hurt in any relationship, and it hurts even more when your family betrays your love or trust. Remember that all relationships, whether business, romance, or mare friendships, are a learning experience for us to grow—not in height, but in mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual strength. As never before, there are many books written, as there are talk shows, such as Dr. Phil, that give advice on relationships. Relationships today are likened to looking for a job. Remove the blinders, so speaking, check the other’s lifestyle and compatibility with yours, even family inherited diseases—yes—preparedness is important down the road of growth together. Some of these things are overlooked in many cases due to our love or fascination felt for the person. Before entering a relationship that eventually hurts or destroys you, think things through. Marriage is not a game; it is a commitment to another of your deep emotional feeling, called love.

To conclude, be mature of mind when entering a marriage relationship. It is a commitment for life—not a game, to cause some other significant one’s jealousy; each one needs to be there for the other in sickness, in health and in love.

 Summer changes the City of Toronto dramatically. It’s often called the “City of the Dead,” a saying mostly heard from foreigners. In summer, it becomes the city of the living. This is the start of all kinds of festivities, such as the Jazz, R&B festivals, street parties, and family barbecues, all leading up to the Caribbean festival and then to the Canadian National Exhibition, which reminds us that it is the end of another summer.

I awoke from a dream; my body felt hot under the covers. I had not yet looked through the window to see the beginning of the day. One that told you from the sun’s illumination would be a hot and dry day. I removed the covers and turned on my cell phone. After a minute, the phone began to ring. I picked it up and looked at the display to see who it was, but the ring was calling my attention to messages. I dialed the code that would allow me to retrieve the messages. One was from my sister, Monica. She called to find out how I was. The message was deleted, and another was retrieved. I put the phone on the table next to where I lay. My sister’s message replayed in my thoughts. I smiled and said aloud—families. I rolled over unto my back and folded my arms under my breasts. Again, I smiled as the image of a conversation with Gerry about his family crossed my thoughts. A sound of laughter escaped from my closed lips as I pondered on our conversation and thought that through families, we really discover how deep our love or how strong our resentment of them can be or how their support gives us the energy to push forward toward our goals.

It was during a week in April when my cousin Annette called to inform me that she would be visiting for the day. She could do so because she lived closer to the border that separates the U.S. from Canada. When they arrived, it was after twelve noon. It has been a while since I had seen Annette or her family. Annette and I were like twins growing up; we did and visited most places together. One day, Annette had me playing with poison ivy. I had no clue it would later leave me scratching the daylights. Annette laughed and thought it was funny, but I was a bit annoyed to the point of getting some more and rubbing it all over her, but then I thought that if I did, this would mean having to endure the itching all over again, so I declined. Another day while playing under the bed, I got on top of her. It was just as a mother would her child while she speaks or plays with her. It was a position I had done with Debra-Ann as I played with her on the bed during a vacation in Florida. It was my last memory of her as a child. Cicely came into the room and caught us in that position. Years later, it was known that Cicely hung up on a feeling that had she not entered the room when she did, of something else about to happen. Our thoughts are funny; they can cause us to jump to wrong assumptions about others, as it cause us to doubt our own abilities and sense of self.

The door opened to the sound of their voices before they could knock—yes, this was my family, noisy as their known to be. Annette, her new husband, her son, her daughter, and her daughter’s friend entered the apartment. She introduces her husband for the first time. Annette had remarried since we last saw each other. Her first husband, after their divorce, married her older sister. Few in the family approved of it, but their intentions worked out well for many reasons. Her new husband is Irish and Italian, the same age as her, but he looks a bit older. The fact that he was mixed, I thought, could not be all bad. I have had my share with the Italian culture and found some of them to be loving, cruel, deceptive, and know how to buy their way in and out of situations. They brought out the best and worst in me; therefore, I would rather keep my distance from some of them.

Annette was now a homemaker, looking a bit older, as I do, and had put on some weight. I was surprised to see her looking as she was—tired—but found out as we spoke her days were quite hectic with the kids, and her mother, who is not as well or active as she was once. The huge home to take care of and her husband’s needs; I could not think of why she was a bit overweight after being informed of how much she had to do. Her visit was also an opportunity to give a letter that contained personal information about me, should anything happen. She is called to the porch.

“I have done a Will and Last Testament, and here is some information you need to know should anything happen to me.”

Annette laughed as she said, “What do you need a Will for? You have nothing.” A comment made deceived from what the eyes saw. A comment she made that could and may have applied to her. For the things seen are temporary, but the things unseen are everlasting.

 “Don’t be an ass. Once a person starts to invest, they should make a Last Will and Testament. This way, the little material or financial wealth they have is not taken by the government. If you are smart, you will do the same, and lord knows how they are.”

“Who are you talking about?”

“The government, that’s who,” I responded, laughing. “They give with one hand and take back with the other.”

Annette laughed as she replied, “You are so right.” She stretched forth her hand to accept the letter, and that is when I saw her scarred hand.

“What the hell happened here?” I asked in a fear-filled whisper.

 “I was cooking a dish I saw on TV. The oil in the wok was too hot when I threw in the ingredients. It flared up, and I jumped, knocking the wok over onto myself.”

“Oh, my, look at your hand.” I felt so sad for her.

“Third-degree burn!” she exclaimed.

“Gee.” Then I said playfully, “You should have been more careful trying to cook China man’s food.”

 She smiled. “I should have.” She says before putting it in her handbag. She took the letter and showed her husband, who briefly looked it over.

I took them to the Eaton Center, and after a meal. The children and her husband spent some time looking around the mall, while we had more time to talk, catching up on past times. After the mall, they drove back to the States. I got to work an hour later than the usual start of my shift, which was at 3:00 PM. Annette’s visit had left me with feelings of sadness and fear. Fearful because of the hand I saw in my dream. It seemed to be the right hand, the palms outward open; perhaps a foresight, but because most of my visions were becoming more apparent lately, the fear for others was becoming more real to my senses.

10,000 Dreams Explained: The hand is the body’s most expressive part and denotes power and creativity. The right hand is power; the left is passive and receptive. An open hand represents justice… A raised hand indicates adoration, prayer, or surrender if turned outward; a blessing is given. Then, I was given a blessing. Thanks!

Thank you for reading, for feeling, and for walking with me through Part 1. Part 2 is coming soon.

Until My Dying Day: Captivating Stories from The Esplanade

To the making of books, there’s no end. First impressions rarely tell the full truth about a place, a person, or a story. For the next four weeks, I will be sharing a few captions from Until My Dying Day. My hope is that this book will be among your gifts this holiday season.

In Until My Dying Day, Part 1, Chapter 10, I reflect on The Esplanade. It is a Toronto neighborhood pulsing with history, contradiction, and resilience. From the enduring legacy of St. Lawrence Market, the chapter uncovers whispered tales of old buildings. It also examines the lives they shelter, exploring what lies beneath the surface.

  • Artists and outsiders. Ghost stories and spiritual truths. Public spaces and private battles.
  • A building that once felt inviting later became a battleground for dignity and sanity.
  • A neighborhood where everyone knows your business—or invents it.

    Until My Dying Day is more than a memoir—it’s a mirror, a map, and a call to see deeper. It’s a place where beauty and hardship coexist, and where time slowly unveils what was hidden.

FIRST IMPRESSION

THE ESPLANADE is a neighborhood where one can find anything one’s heart desires. You will find great restaurants like the Old Spaghetti Factory in the neighborhood, which serves great pasta. St. Lawrence Market has been a famous continuous market since 1796 and was formally proclaimed the market block in 1803. There is talk about future privatization. The South Market was home to Toronto’s First City Hall and Police Station, Number One, from 1845 to 99. The original council chamber now houses the Market Gallery. The market has become world-renowned for selling fresh produce, seafood, meat, and cheeses, and continuing the tradition of the Farmers Market on Saturdays. Open on Sundays is a flea market, which is no longer as the site is under construction for another project.

Small and rising businesses: the Lilly Kimsa Theatre for Young People…the Berkeley Street Theatre…Canstage…the Hummingbird Theatre…Sony Theatre, and many more. People of all cultures and backgrounds, upcoming artists, pimps, prostitutes, homemakers, the homeless and the neighborhood gangs (a few of the members known by an acquaintance of a friend), run the street scene, have since then tried to improve the quality of their lives by making a CD, Still Smoking. A historical neighborhood was never quite destroyed by the great fire of 1849. Still standing are the buildings, years old, some telling a story of their past.

Yes, life in the area is quite interesting. If you were unaware of your neighbors’ business, it was because you were either busy trying to make it or kept to yourself. Most knew the other’s business, and even without factual truths, they made up stories of your life. Stories delighted by family gatherings. One that was told to me by my girlfriend Chelsi, who claimed she lived in one that housed a ghost you could hear in the middle of the night or early morning, was a bit laughable, as there is no such thing as a ghost. People call things they cannot see by all sorts of names, and it depends on the country you are from. However, the familiar one is ghosts. Laughable because, when buildings are old, the earth’s movement will cause noise in the home. Laughable because we are living in a spiritual world with wicked spirit creatures that create noises around us, causing fear to the point of wanting to move from where we abide. But also influences our minds from actions of those they have been able to seduce to conduct wrongful acts, which causes a person to want to move from their home; some even act in cruel and destructive ways toward themselves and others.

 My first impression of the building shown by Mac, the super at the time, was an inviting one. After a few years, things started to change, like the saying, “Come see me and come live with me are two different things.” With all the cleaners did to maintain the building, some tenants saw that their work would never end.

I occupied a unit on the second floor of the seven-story building, made up of bachelor’s units, lofts, townhouses and one to three-bedroom units. Some of the tenants’ vendettas escalated from the housing staff to my unit. Some days on exiting the unit, I will be greeted with bags of garbage and baby diapers. This evidence, pushed against my mental inculcated thoughts—thoughts of me trying to be someone I am not—in their opinion; me wanting a child I’ll never have, and like garbage, I will be tossed out, are daily thoughts I battled. Daily, I went about my activities, trying to maintain a job by being on time and performing to the best of my abilities, despite the “insomnia” I suffered. And I was good at what I did. It is said self-praise is no recommendation, but I would not say what I did if it weren’t true. However, this was not good for some, as they saw that my efforts would not prevail, working under the circumstances subjected to.

My ability to foresee my enemies’ goals, office positions that came available, fear was not the only factors that stopped me from applying. Knowing that I would be giving all of myself in my performance, only to be told that I am no longer needed due to some dissatisfaction on their part, was the reason I neglected to apply and was satisfied just doing what I did, as my sanity is maintained.

Thank you for reading, for feeling, and for walking with me through part of Part 1. Stay tuned for another chapter. Part 2 is coming soon.

Is AI Making Us Less Human? Insights on Creativity and Cognition

AI THE DEVIL IN DISGUISE

As much as AI tools will improve human life as we know it, the end results will be detrimental to human existence. Why?

Because the more we outsource our cognitive abilities, the more we become weak at the skills we possess. Let’s face it, AI is more beneficial for those who run a business or more.  Over time, as we have more time sooner rather than later, some will become bored and stressed, while others will become creative. Like what had happened during the COVID pandemic.

However, the difference in creativity to a different level is definite, and I fear that the use of AI is going to push humans to the point of becoming less human with the qualities we were created to have, like various levels of emotions, sympathy, empathy, joy, sense of touch, respect, and authentic human relationships.

THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

As the world phases deeper into a technical world, it’s a more complex time for teachers.  As they grade papers, not knowing whether the student or  AI is the brain behind the work produced.  

For those who don’t know, AI can read any book in a matter of a minute. It can draft their essays, give answers to their math questions. AI can mimic your voice and program to look like you using your voice.  So, where does honesty and authenticity begin and end?

The future looks crazy.

During the past two months, I have been using AI, unknown to me that Copilot was. All along thinking that it was like Grammarly.  What I have discovered is as much as  AI has become a computer companion helping me to formulate my posts and messages, creating visuals and banners. I find that in a scuttle way, it eliminates your truths as it condenses your input. This does not convey the user’s authentic tone of the message or truths. 

Without a review of its output, a person’s message he or she intends to reach a specific group, can become distracting, and the reader, not given all the facts of the original data, may be left mentally confused. Therefore, I will repeat this quote stated during an AI event attended: AI is the brush, humans are the masterpiece. To that, we are, but for how long?

As people become more dependent and addicted to AI, AI may become a masterpiece.  Here is how.

Our use of cognitive abilities will become weak in that many addicted users will lose their attention perception. The ability to learn and retain in memory. Unable to think, such as in problem solving, decision making, proper use of language. The ability to process cognition as interpreted with the help of concepts borrowed from computer science, which includes all of the cognitive psychology I have mentioned above. Therefore, we all, not just children, need to learn how to and what to ask AI to generate the answers we need.  

So instead of training AI to become a part of you. We need to train our children and self to become a better version of ourselves, knowing our strengths and weaknesses. How best to live with others, and to develop the flexible competence to navigate the negative within the world around us. Not AI as 90% and you 10%. Or we will find ourselves with a huge cost of medical bills for Psychological services. The need to have therapy for cognitive restructuring, in which clients are encouraged and helped to adopt more rational or constructive ways of thinking about their problems.

THE ORIGINAL ( not in its entirety) DATA INPUT  below. This version shows my truths compared to my question and instruction to AI’s version that was recently posted.  The original was kept with the intention of using, as a form of show and tell.

BACK TO EARTH

…. There is a reason I did not take a picture of what I saw on October 21, 2025. Because the thought to see is to believe; words encoded into our minds, that evidence must be shown to believe, which is the physiology your mind uses to doubt a truth of reality. Then what may have been a safety for life becomes an end to your life.

Before television or cameras, people in the past believed what was said to them by exercising faith in the individual who was delivering the report. Today, many dismiss facts because they did not SEE or HEAR a thing.

Has the choice to choose because of a lack of evidence gone and made a fool of many?

For example, when someone tells a dream in which they experience what occurred, we put faith in what was said to be truthful. Those who doubt are because they have no history of the person, but those who know of the dreamer will testify to the tale told is to believe. This is my intention to bring back what is lacking in many fake believers.

It takes two, by the legal system as it does by the spiritual realm, for a thing to be confirmed. And here is where faith comes in from those who are told of a thing that has occurred by a dreamer or an eyewitness.

A fact and point.

A dream before a three-day event I attended, I overheard someone saying I want the eyes. The next day, on the computer, the image in a posted advertisement was seen with the side view of half a person’s face focus on one eye.  I shared the posted ad. When I checked the post that was sent to the groups, the image was gone. Proof that the posted ad with the details is what was seen, only those knowing me not to lie intentionally will believe it had the image seen, but those the Devil has in his hold would be the ones to go against my truths.

Why do some do the things they do to each other to destroy them is beyond my thinking. This is why our world is still illiterate, because we keep killing those with the knowledge needed.

When last time the media told the public that our calendar sighting of the moon, the full moon, and the first and last quarter was not on the right dates? Or that the turning back of the clocks was wrong. If I should say, would you believe? Or would you still believe what the majority and the law approved to be?

The reason why some people say little, then say much.

 HABAKKUK IS another of the so-called minor prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures. Where and when did Habakkuk make his prophetic pronouncements?  His book, named Habakkuk, was written in Judah.  It must have been written after the reign of God-fearing King Josiah, in 659-629 B.C.E. (Before our Common Error) because it is stated that the book was completed in c. 628 B.C.E. The prophecy itself provides the clue in foretelling an activity that the people in Judah will not believe, even if it is related.  It is the raising up of the Chaldeans (Babylonians) by God to punish faithless Judah. -Habakkuk 1:5,6.

The book of Habakkuk is made up of three chapters.  The first two chapters are a dialogue between the writer and Jehovah. The third chapter deals with the magnificence of Jehovah in the day of battle, and it is unrivalled in the power and vibrancy of its dramatic style.

WHY BENEFICIAL

Habakkuk’s prophecy is most beneficial today to Christians who need vital energy to hold strong faith while living in a world filled with violence.  It helps us to teach others and to answer the questions people all over the world have asked. Habakkuk’s prophecy is most beneficial today to Christians who need vital energy to hold strong faith while living in a world filled with violence.  It helps us to teach others and to answer the question people all over the world have asked: Will God execute vengeance on the wicked?

The warning lesson is forceful: Do not consider God’s judgments as being too delayed; they will “without fail come true.” -Hab. 2:3.  Without fail, the prophecy of Judah’s destruction by Babylon came true, and without fail, Babylon itself was captured, the Medes and Persians taking the city in 539 B.C.E. Will God execute vengeance on the wicked?

The warning lesson is forceful: Do not consider God’s judgments as being too delayed; they will “without fail come true.” -Hab. 2:3.  Without fail, the prophecy of Judah’s destruction by Babylon came true, and without fail, Babylon itself was captured, the Medes and Persians taking the city in 539 B.C.E.

BIBLE TRUTHS REMAIN

On October 21st, in the early morning, after 5 a.m. I was looking through the window up at the sky as I normally do, sometimes counting the brightly visible stars. My eyes caught sight of a very bright light—it was not a star; it was more as if it were a plane. I remained at the window observing the surroundings as I did the air traffic. At first I thought the object was coming my way (it would take some time to be closer, having watched the movement of air traffic on many occasions), so I stood there. It was now about 6:30 a.m. when a plane from my right—west was seen going east.  I stood watching as it got closer to the object that had not moved from the position southeast. 

As I stood observing the object, I was taken back to my homeland to an afternoon standing on the stairs looking up at a shiny object that looked like what they called a flying saucer (back then, we hadn’t had television). I was able to confirm by the images shown on television only while living abroad.  I finally removed from the window as I saw the plane about to pass the object.  Two nights later, the floodlights on top of the Highrise building, north-east, were on. 

I am trying to make this as clear as I can for those of you who don’t understand yourselves.

You see, the attempt to distract failed, because there are no buildings in the direction where the object was, and the lights on the building were not on, on October 21st, which I could have logically reasoned shone towards the sky. And even if it did, the object would not be seen as the image above. 

The facts, my friends, that my writing is being overlooked before completed, is being tampered with, and my memory is being manipulated by the devil workers, is something I have endured for years as I speak out for others to pay attention. 

However, regards how others may view me, I will say this: blessed I am to have the strength with all I endure, and to my dying day I will continue to follow in the footsteps of Christ.  I have never declared myself perfect, and I never will, because I was born to an imperfect human.

WHAT HAS HUMANS ENVISION FOR OUR FUTURE?

In a few years, not only will most who rely on technology become docile, but you will find robots doing the jobs you were once capable of performing, as within our creativity, more robots are made to take the position of humans. Which has begun.

 Is the new world we envision one of robots?  

When the world was written that ended with the flood, Noah was instructed to put two of each kind in the ark. Is history repeating itself in a way not of the creator’s?

We were told that the ruler of this system, this world, is Satan. Recently, statistics show that in the past few years, more babies have been born as twins. These children are our future and are more intelligent when it comes to using technology. And the truth is, most lack logical thinking. Their adaptability is next to zero. Those who are parents need to seriously consider technology and how best to use it is used.  As we were advised by the prophet, “Train up a child from infancy so that when they grow old they will not forget.” 

Training in the right way produces strength, respect, resilience, and love. Something a computer can only tell what to do in each circumstance, but is unable to develop in human beings.

Thank you for reading. This entire post had no AI intervention, as I was fearful of what AI–my partner will conclude next time I seek its collaboration LOL. Then again, I have no place to hide as it’s a computer that knows everything…lol.

If this post is of interest to you or someone you know who needs to read this, be sure to share and don’t forget to subscribe. Thanks!

For further information, check out this website: HTTP://sxswedu.com

Witnessing the Future: Space, Truth, and Humanity’s Journey

I am blessed to see what will occur in the future. My sight at times is a blessing and a curse at the things I behold.  Before I relate my sight seen on October 21, 2025, I would like to announce the giant leap that mankind has made to outer space, marking a quarter of a century since November 2000. 

Our International Space Station marks a 25-year milestone

Sunday, Nov. 2, marked the 25th anniversary of the first crew of astronauts

“ Nov. 2, 2000, a trailblazing group of three spacefarers, including one NASA astronaut, arrived at the iconic orbital outpost as members of Expedition 1. Now, for a quarter of a century, not a day has gone by that a human has not been in space.”    Eric Lagatta USA TODAY 11/02/25

And 25 years of astronauts from all over the world living and working together to pave the way for future space exploration.

What to know about the iconic outpost

The station was designed between 1984 and 1993. Elements of the station were in construction throughout the US, Canada, Japan, and Europe beginning in the late 1980s.

The International Space Station Program brings together international flight crews, multiple launch vehicles, globally distributed launch and flight operations, training, engineering, and development facilities, communications networks, and the global scientific research community

About 356 feet long, the station is bigger than a six-bedroom house and has six sleeping quarters, two bathrooms, a gym, a 360-degree-view bay window, and docks for up to eight spacecraft to be docked at one time.

The orbital laboratory is operated through a global partnership of space agencies, including NASA, Roscosmos, the European Space Agency, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).

More than 280 spacefarers from 26 countries have visited the International Space Station, including 170 from the United States alone, according to NASA.

THE SPACE STATION’S PURPOSE

Scientists use the International Space Station as a testing ground to uncover new information and provide clues to long-standing scientific mysteries, such as combustion or fluid physics, furthering humanity’s understanding of improvements in everything from fuel efficiency to electronics cooling. They also study how to keep astronauts safe and healthy on long-duration missions.

BENEFITS

15 ways the international space benefits humanity back on Earth. Space Station Research Integration Office, July 22, 2022.

    VISITORS TO SPACE AND LENGTH OF DAYS

    Frank Rubio- 371 days, Mark Vande Hei- 355 days, Scott Kelly- 340 days, Christina Koch- 328 days, Peggy Whitson- 289 days, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams- 286 days, Andrew Morgan- 272 days, Jeanette Epps, Matthew Dominick and Mike Barratt- 235 days.

    INDIVIDUAL CUMULATIVE DAYS

    Peggy Whitson- 695 days, Suni Williams- 608 days, Don Pettit- 590 days, Jeff Williams-534 days, Mark Vande Hei- 523 days, Scott Kelly- 520 days, Butch Wilmore- 464 days.

    BACK TO EARTH: The Cost of Knowing Too Much

    While humanity has reached for the stars—launching probes, satellites, and astronauts into the unknown—there remains a more clandestine frontier here on Earth. For centuries, experiments and covert operations have unfolded in silence, often at the expense of those who dared to know too much. The price of truth, in many cases, has been death.

    Consider the case of Dr. Li Wenliang, the Chinese ophthalmologist who tried to warn colleagues about a SARS-like virus in late 2019. His early alerts about what would become known as COVID-19 were met not with gratitude but with reprimand. He was detained, forced to sign a statement denouncing his warnings as false rumours, and later died from the virus himself. His death sparked outrage and became a symbol of the dangers of suppressing truth.

    Another chilling example is that of Karen Silkwood, a chemical technician and union activist at the Kerr-McGee plutonium plant in Oklahoma. In 1974, she was en route to meet a journalist with documents allegedly proving unsafe practices at the plant. She never made it. Her car was found to have crashed, and the documents were missing. Her death was ruled an accident, but suspicions of foul play persist to this day.

    These are not isolated incidents. They are reminders that truth, when it threatens power, becomes dangerous.

    Mankind’s pursuit of innovation—electricity, clean water, aircraft, and now space travel—has always been driven by a desire for better living. Yet, in this pursuit, many have chosen to live in falsehood, dismissing inconvenient truths as fiction. As Ecclesiastes 1:10 reminds us:

    “Does anything exist of which one may say: ‘See this; it is new’? It has already had existence for time indefinite; what has come into existence is from time before us.”

    History does not lie. It is only forgotten or ignored by those who lack faith or memory.

    BIBLE TRUTHS REMAIN

    On October 21, 2025, in the early morning, after 5:30 a.m. I was looking through the window up at the sky as I normally do, sometimes counting the brightly visible stars. Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. I witnessed something extraordinary—an object in the sky, unmoving, luminous, and unlike any aircraft I’ve observed. I did not photograph it. Why? Because we’ve been conditioned to believe only what we can see and record. But faith once moved civilizations—before cameras, before satellites, before the internet.

    Today, we dismiss dreams, visions, and testimonies unless they come with timestamped proof. Yet, in ancient times, a prophet’s word was enough to shift nations. Habakkuk, writing in 628 B.C.E., warned Judah of a coming judgment they would not believe even if told (Habakkuk 1:5-6). His words echo today: truth is often rejected when it challenges comfort or control.

    I’ve experienced digital erasure—documents and images disappearing after being shared. These are not coincidences. They are tactics of manipulation, designed to discredit, distract, and destabilize.

    Why do we silence those with knowledge? Why do we destroy the very minds that could elevate humanity? Perhaps because truth is disruptive, and disruption threatens the status quo.

    Let this be a call to those who still believe in discernment, in faith, and in the power of testimony. The legal system requires two witnesses for confirmation. So does the spiritual realm. If you’ve seen, heard, or dreamed—speak. If you’ve been silent, know that you are not alone.

    Because in the end, the truth will not be buried forever. And those who walk in it, though persecuted, are never powerless.

    Thanks for reading. Celebrate our space exploration by sharing this post.

    Sources:

    Finding Balance in a Tech-Driven World

    ⚖️ The Good in Being Balanced

    We’ve all experienced change—within our countries, our communities, and our personal lives. Some changes have been good, others not so much. But all of them demand that we adjust: how we live among one another, how we spend, how we think.

    Technology has advanced rapidly. Once, many of us struggled to share our ideas with the world. We lacked access, while others—armed with tech—held the upper hand. Today, access is more widespread. But with it comes a new challenge: mastering AI tools and understanding their output. If we don’t scrutinize what AI generates, we risk miscommunication and distortion.

    This isn’t just my opinion. During a conversation with my sister Monica, I mentioned that if we don’t find balance in our use of technology, we’ll run short of electricity. That concern is now echoed by others:

    “AI will hit a critical bottleneck by the middle of next year.” —Elon Musk
    “Energy—not compute—will be AI’s #1 bottleneck.” —Mark Zuckerberg
    “Large language models like ChatGPT are power hungry.” —Andy Jassy, Amazon CEO

    The Wall Street Journal warns that AI is pushing the grid to a breaking point. The Washington Post says America is running out of power. This isn’t fearmongering—it’s a wake-up call.

    🧹 The Importance of Digital Housecleaning

    Lately, I’ve been doing some digital housecleaning. I’ve noticed strange things: disappearing documents, vanishing information from shared posts, and updates that seem too frequent. Even my follower count doesn’t always add up.

    I don’t rely on likes for validation—I know where I’m going. But when others try to block progress, I ask: can you put yourself in someone else’s shoes, just for a moment? For anyone without understanding is liken to the one who has never been educated.

    Some use their intelligence to manipulate others through technology. That’s not just wrong—it’s dangerous. To my social friends who fear Jehovah and those who seek righteous change: do not intermeddle. Disaster comes swiftly to those who oppose what is right.

    “The showing of partiality in judgment is not good.” —A proverb for the wise.

    RUMORS

    More than before, Governments of all levels must implement social laws and rules. It is imperative for the mental health of all technology users. Hackers, when caught, must be fined and prevented from the use of any technological devices for a period. Second, the courts should put them behind bars on a second charge.

    Lately, there have been reports of a Gmail security breach impacting millions of users. The reports are false. According to Google, “Gmail’s defences are strong, and users remain protected. The inaccurate reports are stemming from a misunderstanding of infostealer databases, which routinely compile various credential theft activity occurring across the web.”

    It has been confirmed that TikTok users are being targeted by a scam that sees hackers literally trying to sell them access to their own money.

    SAFETY TIPS

    • You can find out more about staying safe from TikTok scams in the TikTok Safety Center
    • When it comes to email, users can help protect themselves by turning on 2-step verification and adopting passkeys as a simpler and stronger alternative to passwords.”

    👋 Saying Goodbye Is Never Easy

    Thank you, Mr. Zuckerberg, for creating Facebook. I’ve been here for years. I’ve seen friends disappear—if they were real—and new faces emerge. I’ve enjoyed reading your creative posts, often leaving a comment or sharing them.

    But there’s a time for everything under the sun. A time to step aside and let those who believe they’re in control take the reins. As much as I’d like to stay, I can’t pretend I’m unaffected by what’s happened.

    But there’s a time for everything under the sun. A time to step aside and let those who believe they’re in control take the reins. As much as I’d like to stay, I can’t pretend I’m unaffected by what’s happened.

    I once read a man’s post that said, “For years I have been talking to myself.” I chuckled, confused then. Now, I understand.

    I have projects to complete. Once they’re done, I’ll return. Until then, I wish you all the best—may your online businesses thrive, and may your posts continue to uplift and inspire.

    So long for now. Please don’t forget to share if this post speaks to you and strikes a chord.

    Notes and additional reading…

    Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 2:17 AM

    To: bernie20102010@outlook.com <bernie20102010@outlook.com>

    Subject: bernie20102010@outlook.com

    Hello pervert, I’ve sent this message from your Microsoft account.I want to inform you about a very bad situation for you. However, you can benefit from it, if you will act wisеly.Have you heard of Pegasus? This is a spyware program that installs on computers and smartphones and allows hackers to monitor the activity of device owners. It provides access to your webcam, messengers, emails, call records, etc. It works well on Android, iOS, macOS and Windows. I guess, you already figured out where I’m getting at.It’s been a few months since I installed it on all your dеviсеs because you were not quite choosy about what links to click on the intеrnеt. During this period, I’ve learned about all aspects of your private life, but оnе is of special significance to me.I’ve recorded many videos of you jerking off to highly controversial роrn videos. Given that the “questionable” genre is almost always the same, I can conclude that you have sick реrvеrsiоn.I doubt you’d want your friends, family and co-workers to know about it. However, I can do it in a few clicks.Every number in your contact list will suddenly receive these vidеоs – on WhatsApp, on Telegram, on Instagram, on Facebook, on email – everywhere. It is going to be a tsunami that will sweep away everything in its path, and first of all, your fоrmеr life.Don’t think of yourself as an innocent victim. No one knows where your реrvеrsiоn might lead in the future, so consider this a kind of deserved рunishmеnt to stop you.I’m some kind of God who sees everything. However, don’t panic. As we know, God is merciful and forgiving, and so do I. But my mеrсy is not free.Transfer 1650$ to my Litecoin (LTC) wallet: ltc1qvpe2vdhtxfwj99800fwz3e22gy2p0asq2tjkjtOnce I receive confirmation of the transaction, I will рermanently delete all videos compromising you, uninstаll Pegasus from all of your devices, and disappear from your life. You can be sure – my benefit is only money. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be writing to you, but destroy your life without a word in a second.I’ll be notified when you open my email, and from that moment you have exactly 48 hours to send the money. If cryptocurrencies are unchartered waters for you, don’t worry, it’s very simple. Just google “crypto exchange” or “buy Litecoin” and then it will be no harder than buying some useless stuff on Amazon.I strongly warn you against the following:Do not reply to this email. I’ve sent it from your Microsoft account. Do not contact the police. I have access to all your dеviсеs, and as soon as I find out you ran to the cops, videos will be published. Don’t try to reset or destroy your dеviсеs. As I mentioned above: I’m monitoring all your activity, so you either agree to my terms or the vidеоs are рublished. Also, don’t forget that cryptocurrencies are anonymous, so it’s impossible to identify me using the provided аddrеss.Good luck, my perverted friend. I hope this is the last time we hear from each other.And some friendly advice: from now on, don’t be so careless about your online security.

    All Parents: A Call to Quality Time

    Why Quality Time Matters More Than Quantity

    For the first time, I watched a movie that deeply moved me—and I believe every parent, especially those juggling work and limited time with their children, should consider planning a special evening. Whether it’s a movie night, a reading session, or simply a heartfelt conversation, the value lies not in the quantity of time spent, but in its quality.

    “A day with Jehovah is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a day.” — 2 Peter 3:8
    Reflect on what that truly means.

    The Beauty of Creation and Intentional Love

    When we pause to observe the world—or are fortunate enough to travel—we’re often struck by the awe-inspiring alignment of the stars, the beauty of sunrises and sunsets, the majesty of landscapes, rivers, valleys, and even human architecture. All of it reflects Jehovah’s craftsmanship and the love He poured into creating a world for us to enjoy.

    Parenting with Purpose

    There is no handbook for raising children. Parents do this by trial and error, but we do have an ancient book that does give one of the best advice. The way I was mostly disciplined as a child, whenever I was out of order at school.

    Scriptures I recall that remind parents of how to guide their children from infancy:

    “Foolishness is tied up with the heart of a boy; the rod of discipline is what will remove it far from him.” — Proverbs 22:15
    “Do not hold back discipline from a child.” — Proverbs 23:13

    No matter the circumstances surrounding their birth, children are a blessing. Care for them as you would yourself, and by Jehovah’s grace, you will not regret the outcome.

    Navigating Uncertain Times

    WHY this movie? In this era of economic uncertainty, rising inflation, and job instability, it’s more important than ever to communicate openly with our families, be mindful of our surroundings, and choose friendships wisely. With faith and unity, your household can withstand the enemy’s plan to divide and conquer.

    A Movie Worth Watching: When They See Us

    One powerful way to connect is through storytelling. I recommend watching When They See Us, an Emmy-winning series available on Netflix. It tells the true story of five young men—once known as the Central Park Five—who were wrongfully convicted and later exonerated. This four-part series explores themes of media influence, injustice, endurance, betrayal, faith, and love. It’s a compelling conversation starter for parents and older children alike.

    Affordable and Impactful

    Netflix currently costs $7.99/month and can be cancelled anytime. While the cost may be a stretch for some, even one or two nights spent watching and discussing this series with your child can leave a lasting impact.

    REFLECTION

    THE THRESHOLD OF CHOICE

    There’s a moment—just before the door closes behind you—when the weight of the day settles in. The meetings, the messages, the compromises, the convictions. And in that stillness, you realize: no matter how many voices shaped your path, the final step is yours alone.

    Unable to sleep, I got out of bed and headed to the living room…there is something about the early morning hours that takes you into a space and place of tranquillity. But for some of us, the devil keeps his workers on a twenty-four-hour watch on those faithful to disturb their peace.  I ignored the noises around me, sat on the couch with the Bible, pen and paper, a pale of water to soak my tired, aching feet, and began to read a chapter as I allowed the spirit to guide my thoughts, which were mostly on how to approach my sister.

    My MIND TO ME, A KINGDOM IS

    My eyes caught the scripture that says, “There exist companions disposed to break one another to pieces.” As I was writing, I added my own perception, so be aware of your companions, for some are under the influence of the unseen one capable of cunning, even those believed to be wise. “But there exists a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” One who is there not for selfish gain but for the one he or she holds dear to call a friend.

    As I sat quietly deep in thought, a scripture popped up, “And do not be in a hurry with your feet…” I blinked my eye. Was this my thought, or did I just read “not to be in a hurry with my feet? I reflect for a moment, then complete my perception of the scripture. Spiritually, the feet are known to be the foundation of the soul. Therefore, just as a house built on a solid foundation is designed to accommodate its occupants, so is the importance of having a spiritual foundation that supports the soul.

    AS THE SUN GOES DOWN

    Finally, I closed the Bible and contemplated my sister’s action. Was my concern seen as controlling? Do I not resist calling for a while, after all, she is not picking up my calls?

    We make hundreds of choices each day. Some ripple quietly. Others roar through our lives. But all of them, in time, return to us. Not as echoes of what others said, but as reflections of who we are.

    So, when the day ends and the house is quiet, ask yourself:

    • Did I choose with courage?
    • Did I choose with kindness?
    • Did I choose with wisdom?

    Because at the end of the day, you are on your own.
    And the decisions you make will either build your peace or borrow your strength.

    Thanks for taking the time to read. And if you find this blog spoke to you, I’ll be happy to read your comment.

    🔥 From Calm to Crisis: A Wake-Up Call for Business and Community Resilience

    Friday often signals relief for many professionals to recharge, reconnect, and reflect. But what happens when a peaceful weekend morning turns into a moment of reckoning?

    I woke up early Saturday morning after my usual rituals, walked to the balcony to retrieve the garbage put there the night before, only to have the morning greet me with a freshly floral scent.  A calm and peaceful clothed me, I echoed. “What a beautiful day.”  Closed the door and proceeded to the kitchen. Prepared breakfast, cleaned the stove and proceeded back to bed.  I was still tired from lack of sleep. 

    In seconds, I was out. 

    Later, I woke up but remained in bed, still too tired to remove, but a strong feeling to get up and get dressed moved me to do so.  As I did, the fire alarm blared. Initially dismissed as a false alert, the urgency in neighbors’ voices drew me to the window. I leaned my head closer to the window and looked to see one of the units engulfed with thick black smoke. The fire was real and completely out of control, as the picture below shows.

    THE CHOICE TO CHOOSE

    The apostle Paul had difficulty at times when it came to obedience. This is what he had to say about the law.  “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are advantageous.”  Paul fought to do the right thing. And had to have tremendous strength of self-control.  We need to have days like these.  When times are difficult for everyone.  Some are unable to hold a job, discriminated against, mentally stressed, and financially weak. The temptation to disobey rules some will take.

    However, each one has the freedom to obey or to disobey rules. The ifs ought to be considered when the choice to disobey is made.

    Every choice we make involves another. So be careful of the choices being made.

    THE IMPACT OF DISOBEYING RULES

    By Monday, the consequences were widespread. Power outages disrupted remote work. Local businesses were forced to close temporarily. Residents faced financial setbacks. All because of one unit, one incident, one choice.

    LESSONS FROM DISASTERS

    What can be taken away from disasters?

    This fire reminded me of past disasters that reshaped national policies and public behaviour:

    • The Lac-Mégantic Rail Disaster (2013, Quebec): A train carrying crude oil derailed and exploded, killing 47 people. It led to sweeping changes in rail safety regulations and emergency response protocols across Canada.
    • Hurricane Katrina (2005, U.S.): Beyond the devastation, it exposed systemic failures in infrastructure, emergency planning, and social equity—prompting reforms in FEMA and urban planning.

    Both events taught us that negligence, whether personal or institutional, can cost lives and livelihoods. And that change often comes too late.

    So, as I stood in observation of those around me and the service workers of the fire department, one neighbor came and stood with me.  As we talked, she was a bit anxious about not being able to get back into the building to her unit.  So, I said, “Did you leave without any thing of importance. This is a perfect opportunity for some to take advantage of the situation to break in and steal;”  The concern stated due to experience.

    “No,” she responds.

    “Do you have an emergency kit set up for situation such as this.”

    “No,” she says.

    “Well, you should,” I responded and explained the reason why I had one, due to a lack of time to gather certain items.

    There’s a lesson to learn in every failure, in every success story; we just need to look to find the pot of gold, so to speak, at the end of the rainbow. For businesses, it’s a reminder to audit your risk, reinforce your values, and empower your people to make responsible choices. Because in the end, the cost of disobedience isn’t just personal—it’s communal

    I am sure when all was over, my neighbor left with something learned.

    Unit uninhabitable after the fire.

    Let’s consider each other in our choices. Much thanks and appreciation to all the firefighters involved in Saturday’s fire on The Esplanade.

    Psychology, Purple Hair & the Divine Comedy of Being Me

    Our entire reaction to life, as viewed by our Creator, is based on psychology. Psychology is the study of the human mind and its functions. It particularly examines how thoughts and feelings influence behavior in different contexts.

    I am one among a group called writers.  Anyone in that group knows that there is no end to the subjects we can create. Our creations come from our daily walk on the streets. They emerge from chores within our household. Creativity can even strike while we’re relaxing on our veranda or in the backyard.

    However, not all creations are factual.  Stories written are from our mind’s fantasies to brighten someone’s day through laughter.  From our experiences, we write to educate. We aim to cause you to reflect. We strive to ignite a flame that is burning in your soul. This desire, when speaking out or acting out, that lacks the strength. Therefore, writers deserve respect for their vulnerability in exposing their truths. Some people may conclude they are crazy if they don’t understand the reason behind the pen work of art.

    We can create any subject to enlighten, educate, or move you to cry or to laughter. As writers, we sometimes put ourselves in situations to achieve the truth.   Over a month ago, I had my hair cut. I also colored it purple. It is a semi-permanent color that will eventually disappear. In my case, it would disappear after 4 washings.  As the hairstylist did my hair, the color was turning green.  She was as surprised as I was. “Wait a minute, the color is turning green,” she said. She then proceeded to wipe it off.  “Someone is trying to exercise their strength,” I comment.  Or it is time you have a change of eyeglasses, the thought unexpressed. She then disappeared into her storage room, came back, and proceeded to finish the job of coloring the hair. After the time allowed for processing, my hair was washed and dried.

    Mirror, Mirror… What the Fish-Sticks?!

    The next time I wash my hair will be about two weeks after. If I am not on the road often, I might delay washing my hair. If I am exercising indoors, I will wash it sooner. After a shower and washing my hair, I got out of the bathtub. I creamed my skin and got dressed. Then, I took the towel off my head. I looked into the mirror. “What the fish-sticks is going on, where is the color?” The purple had turned into a light green color. After another washing in two weeks, it turned into a beautiful mixture of white. There were patches of light brown, with a touch of the light green slightly visible in close view.

    Phagwah Vibes

    I stared at myself. I imagined I’d wandered into a Phagwah celebration. The colors were flying, and spirits were high. I was the accidental canvas. I was filled with accusations and doubts from my spectators. I laughed. Not just at my hair, but at life. At the absurdity, the beauty, the divine comedy of it all.

    Because laughter, my friends, is sacred. It heals. It humbles. It reminds us that even when our hair betrays us, our spirit can still shine.

    So yes, dreams are confusing. Spiritual forces are real. And sometimes, your hair is the battleground for cosmic messages. But through it all—through the doubts, the delays, the dye jobs gone rogue—we must remain open. To love. To laughter. To learn.

    You might sometimes find yourself staring into the mirror. You may wonder what happened to your purple hair. Just remember: you’re not losing your mind. You are gaining a story.

    Phagwah is a celebration where Guyanese of all faiths partake in smearing each other with colorful powder (Abir). They drench each other with water dyed in brilliant rainbow hues. This spreads the message of unconditional love [of God] and affirms the triumph of good over evil.

    Holi is associated with the legend of the demon king Hiranya Kashyap, his son Prahlad, and his sister Holika. It was introduced to Trinidad by east Indian laborers around 1845. A celebration that takes place during March and April.

    Hair Dye & Holy Revelations

    This week, I got tired of looking at my hair color. The truth was twofold. I was curious to find out the reaction to a dream I had after washing my hair. I also liked the cut. I just wanted a color that would reflect how I felt. So, I went to the salon on the weekend. “I got a purple for you,” she said.

    “Thanks,” I responded.  “But the summer is almost over, so I am thinking of a different color.”

    “Let me get the color-book,” she left and returned.

    I chose a color between light and medium brown, then instructed her on how I wanted it applied. After the process, she washed and towel-dried, then I left to do grocery shopping. While doing so, I considered stopping on my way home. I wanted her to correct the coloring. I had hinted that it should have been done.  As I got to the door, the lights were off. It was only after two, closing in on three o’clock. 

    “Where could she be,” I thought to myself.  I overheard a customer give assurance that she would arrive within fifteen minutes. That would have been two. While attending to me, I was told she had an appointment scheduled for two o’clock. The calculation of time and speculation to reasoning formed in my head.  She was closing at four o’clock. 

    As I passed the shop, the force decided to freak with my mind. It took me back to the person I passed on the street. She was laughing as she spoke on the phone. A bit of the conversation was overheard.  The whispered voice, “She was laughing at you.”  

    I am in speculation of the action seen.  This could be why she closed earlier than scheduled. Or it could be that neither appointment showed up.  I looked in the mirror at my hairdo. I laughed and said, “I now have to wait until after the holiday. I’ll get the work corrected then.” It was Labor Day weekend.

    Laughter Is Medicine

    It is good to laugh at oneself.  Laughter is good for the soul. It heals as it kills. Many of us unintentionally give laughter to others each day.  It is within the innocence of the act that laughter, so pure and genuine, kills our souls. I recall a few who died from laughter. I laughed as I imagined being in their time and space.

    Zeuscis, a painter of his time in the 5th century. Died laughing over his indulged photograph of an old woman who wanted a portrait done as a well-known figure.

    There was Alex Mitchel, a bricklayer in King’s Lynn, England, who died of laughter on March 24th, 1975. While looking at a TV show titled The Goodies. It was during an episode titled Kung Fu Kapers, that an aphoristic master of ancient Lancastrian art of “Ecky Thump” slaughtered all comers with a blood pudding. His wife thanked the show that the death of her spouse was peaceful.

    The dish—blood pudding—is like sausages, something I had eaten a few times until I found out what it was made with. It is made of rice boiled with cow’s blood. The mixture is seasoned with spices. It is then stuffed into the tube from the cow’s belly. It can be eaten by itself or with tamarind sauce. It is a delicacy of the Greeks.

    Then there was Damnoen Soaen-Um, a Thai ice-cream truck driver who, in 2023, died laughing during his sleep. I have caught myself in such dreams and had to wake myself. I also experienced my elder sister laughing during sleep.

    IMPORTANCE OF ANALYZING

    Dreams are confusing and must be reflected upon in wakefulness if one can recall what occurred during sleep. Before reflection, it is advised that you seek God’s direction. As you separate your thoughts, you will be given direction.  However, your mind must be open to receiving guidance from the spiritual realm. Unless this is done, you will find yourself isolating from those who really care. If your mind is open to being taught, you will find clarity. With a focus on attaining this clarity, everything will fall into perspective. Remember, love is the key.  When love is truly within one’s heart, guidance is freely ascertained. –Colossians 3:14

    Dreams & Divine Downloads

    What I expected her to say when I had arrived to color the hair, I did not hear. I expected to hear what I overheard in my dream. I wanted to witness the moment when the person is told, “Don’t color the hair anymore.” This brings me to explain spirituality.  Some of what I am about to say is written within My Dying Day by B. M. Lustol published by Dorrance Publishing Company.

    First note.  We are physical beings, being given spiritual experiences.  Just as each one has a physical body and takes care of it, we need to understand our spiritual connection to others. This connection requires mental awareness.  The process is confusing, take it from me. Pain is not always an enemy, but a mirror revealing what needs to be healed. It could be ourselves or the other person. When we become aware of our spiritual connection, we will avoid actions that harm others and us.  Patience is needed. As you observe your surroundings and associates, be mindful of envy and jealousy. Such attitudes can rob you of peace and success.

     Furthermore, my second note is the realm of spiritual activity at this time. As we become more active, we must fight against it. I am not the only one who has dealt with the spiritual forces some call ghosts, who cease every opportunity of those promoting good work. We must fight not only with faith and the word of God, but also with actions that spread our truths.

    Final Thought

    It is time to wake up. We must become vigilant. Our fight is against those in authority and in heavenly places. –Ephesians 6:12

    • Goggle Subtract -10 people who died laughing, listed by Magus Magnus, August 12, 2022.

    Thank you for reading. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog.

    Understanding Greed and Survival: A Personal Journey

    There are many reasons people give up on living.  I can only talk on my behalf.  There is no doubt that problems strengthen individually as they do physically.  Therefore, embracing one’s challenges benefits one’s overall health, as it does the outcome.

    People steal from others due to a lack of material possessions, financial difficulties, or sheer greed.  Others do because of physical and mental laziness.  In the world of technology, the term given to thieves is “hackers.”

    I would like to address the topic.  I have walked that road before and feel no regret because those who run the company failed to understand what it is like to wake each morning to travel through rain, heat, and cold to maintain a job to keep a roof over my [their] head and creditors off my [their] backs.  To overlook insults, verbal abuse, and work overtime when a customer insists on being served.  Only to be treated as a [slave] less than human, without understanding of the employee struggles or their dedication to keep the company in existence.

    So, in light of my experience, I understand injustice.  What I don’t understand is that those lacking, whether in financial or material wealth, allow greed to control their actions, taking what is not theirs, especially when no input or work was done; this justifies the taken action.  I know, just as one can find it easy to take what is not theirs, the ability to make do with what one has, if their survival depended on it, they will find a way to use what they have.

    The Connection of All Living Things

    A plant, destined to become a tree, relies on the gardener’s care—sunlight, water, and nourishment—to thrive. Its growth is shaped by the environment the gardener cultivates. In this way, life itself is a shared responsibility: one being’s survival often depends on the intention and action of another.

    When I moved into my current unit, my neighbor’s hostility was immediate and unexplained. The tension between us—whether rooted in love or hate—was undeniable. I was born into love, raised with kindness, and taught to value truth and dignity. So, when someone harbors racism in their heart, I cannot accept it. It is not my role to change them; that task belongs to my Heavenly Father, Jehovah. If transformation does not come, it may be because Satan’s influence has taken root, leading such souls toward ruin.

    Just as a plant instinctively reaches for sunlight and water—the sources of life—people gravitate toward those who offer wisdom, compassion, and care. We bloom in the presence of love, and wither in its absence.

    One afternoon, I noticed my neighbor’s plant creeping toward the mesh around my veranda. I watched it for days as it wove through the openings, persistent and quiet. Eventually, I removed it (without cutting it) with gloves and a pair of scissors. The next day, it returned—its stem pushing through again. Before cutting it, I quietly spoke: “Listen, I don’t want you on my veranda. Next time, I’ll have to cut you.” I removed it once more.

    But then something remarkable happened. The plant, undeterred, began curling around its own stem, adapting, growing, and blooming in a new direction.

    The purple mark indicates the stem.

    This moment reminded me: every living thing possesses the will to survive, to grow, and to find a way forward. Whether plant or person, we each have the power to reshape our path, using what we have—even in the face of resistance. Our growth may be challenged, but it is never impossible.

    OUT OF MY TREASURES

    The bible, on many occasions, gives warning not to steal, and for good reasons. We are all given the ability to create out of need from our own resources, and when we are unable to, to seek help. “Seek and you will find, Ask and it shall be given.” Yes, I had done this in my circumstance without my employer’s help, which moved me to exercise justice in the way I saw fair.  The story is featured in my memoir, Until My Dying Day, by B. M. Lustol, published by Dorrance Publishing Company.

    For further reading, Proverbs 30:7-9 and Leviticus 19:11

    Thank you for reading.