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bookworm

Mugger Stats

  • Member Type: Mugger
  • Profile Views: 1,454 views
  • Friends: 13 friends
  • Last Update: January 8
  • Joined: August 30, 2018

Mugger Details

  • Screen Name* bookworm
  • Gender* Female
  • About Me: Living on ­64 acres s­ubtropical­ hilly lan­d with hus­band, thre­e horses, ­cat and nu­merous wil­dlife. Stu­dying crea­tive writi­ng at Sout­hern Cross­ Universit­y. Formerl­y a sculpt­or and art­ teacher, ­an Arabian­ horse bre­eder and t­rainer, an­d an aged ­care nurse­.
    Student ye­ars - dive­rse unskil­led part-t­ime jobs. ­Subsequent­ years, vo­luntary wo­rk 7 hrs o­nce a week­, half-way­ house for­ young aut­istic adul­ts, riding­ for the d­isabled, l­ibrarian a­nd fundrai­ser for ar­tists' pro­fessional ­associatio­ns, and Li­feline tel­ephone cou­nselling.
    ­
    Atheist, B­uddhist, v­egetarian,­ small l-l­iberal, li­bertarian,­ green.
    Much invol­ved in poe­try, writi­ng and Lan­dcare (eco­logical re­pair of th­e local en­vironment.­) Diverse ­interests.­ Love crea­tivity,
    open-mind­edness, in­tellectual­ challenge­s and worl­d fusion c­ulture.
  • Activity
    • About
    • Discussions (120)
    • Replies (3229)
    • Blogs (12)
    • Friends (13)
    • Joined Groups (1)
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    • Gifts (6)
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  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What do you think is the best option when a person wants to try make a living using their creative talents?...:
    Thanks for the pick, Kitty.Too trusting. Yes. I had that experience very early.Was commissioned to do a portrait of a man's Dalmation dog. When it was done he loved it but refused to pay the agreed price or give the portrait back. At the time, I really ne...  moreThanks for the pick, Kitty.Too trusting. Yes. I had that experience very early.Was commissioned to do a portrait of a man's Dalmation dog. When it was done he loved it but refused to pay the agreed price or give the portrait back. At the time, I really needed that money and was very angry. Art materials are hideously expensive. Yet there were no local police and so absolutely nothing I could do about it.But I meant being poor at business in a much broader way. It's OK for an artist to state the facts of their achievements - such as one would find in a CV, or to advertise an upcoming event with the date, time, place and nature of the work. But it's not OK for an artist to boast about the quality, originality and significance of their work. Someone else has to do that for them.If a writer decides to self-publish, which is commonplace and acceptable these days, he or she has to give up writing and go on the road to festivals and bookshops to sell the work. Selling online is notoriously disastrous, especially v...    less
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~:
    I believe it.Some Aussies have an awful lot of bravado.Glad to hear your experience has been about 50:50 male to female. I wonder whether it's related to the industry you work in.Was it difficult to check their references and qualifications?How did you di...  moreI believe it.Some Aussies have an awful lot of bravado.Glad to hear your experience has been about 50:50 male to female. I wonder whether it's related to the industry you work in.Was it difficult to check their references and qualifications?How did you discover that they had lied their way into the position?  
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Do you know any hand signs and gestures or words that are universal?:
    Know? No.I think some gestures tend to be very widespread, but I don't think any are universal.Variations of empty-handedness often signify a greeting with the undertone, "I'm here peacefully; I carry no weapon."I doubt if any languages have any words wit...  moreKnow? No.I think some gestures tend to be very widespread, but I don't think any are universal.Variations of empty-handedness often signify a greeting with the undertone, "I'm here peacefully; I carry no weapon."I doubt if any languages have any words with universally equal meanings. Related languages carry similarities in their roots, but the more foreign the language the less similarity.Linguists agree that the relationship between an object, the word it is called by and what it signifies is arbitrary.One exception may be the word "ma" for mother. It is thought by some linguists to be fairly close to universal, perhaps because it tends to be one of the first word-like sounds a baby makes.  less
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What do you think is the best option when a person wants to try make a living using their creative talents?...:
    Difficult. With rare exceptions, most cultures in most parts of the world do not pay well for art.Therefore, to make a living at it, one has to excel.There's a common joke - "I don't know much about art but I know what I like." It's worth thinking long an...  moreDifficult. With rare exceptions, most cultures in most parts of the world do not pay well for art.Therefore, to make a living at it, one has to excel.There's a common joke - "I don't know much about art but I know what I like." It's worth thinking long and hard about why it's a joke.What makes art art actually has very little to do with taste.Aim to develop exceptionally high technical or craft skills. To achieve this requires around 10-hours practice per day for a minimum of 10 years, and never ceasing to practise and improve.Know the field thoroughly; allow influence from the greats but never plagiarise; avoid gimmickry, aim for meaningful originality.Be free with emotional expression, depth of insight, and showing the truth of the human condition and the life of this planet.Be aware of the existence of politics in all fields of the arts. It is unavoidable. Be honest with oneself as to whether one has what it takes to diplomatically negotiate this minefield. Patronage and promotion are inextricably locked up i...    less
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to No country (or better stated, government) is perfect, no country has a spotlessly perfect history. Is it wrong to love one’s country even :
    What a complex question!I love the land of Australia and its climate, geography and ecologies.I love that we have a democracy, relatively low crime rates and high freedom of speech and lifestyle.I would prefer it if our social safety nets were better and ...  moreWhat a complex question!I love the land of Australia and its climate, geography and ecologies.I love that we have a democracy, relatively low crime rates and high freedom of speech and lifestyle.I would prefer it if our social safety nets were better and stronger than they are. They're not bad compared to many countries, but they fall far short of the actual need, and this has been getting worse over the last forty years.I loathe and feel ashamed of many aspects of Anglo-Australian culture: colonial history, continuing racism (1 in 6 have racist attitudes of some sort), and environmental violation, ignorance, greed and irresponsibility.But Australians are a mixed lot. One cannot make assumptions based on how someone looks. 29% were born overseas. 49% are born of first or second-generation immigrants - and these come from all countries across the planet. I very much enjoy the contributions migrants have made. They've made us more aware of other parts of the world, other ways of thinking, and have shown us the imp...    less
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to In ancient cultures (worldwide), what objects or substances were used for face-painting and/or body painting?:
    Varying from one nation to another, Aborigines in Australia painted ochre in significant designs on their bodies. They also wore wrist and ankle bands made of woven string and animal skins, with women often wearing skirts made from emu or other bird feath...  moreVarying from one nation to another, Aborigines in Australia painted ochre in significant designs on their bodies. They also wore wrist and ankle bands made of woven string and animal skins, with women often wearing skirts made from emu or other bird feathers. Designs and sacred object varied with the creation stories from one region to another. In South Australia, a certain species of red-bean was made into bead necklaces worn by the men. Across all the colder regions, kangaroo skin cloaks were worn. Sacred objects included clap sticks and digeridoos.Modern ceremonial dress adds bright red loincloths for men, and bras with colourful cotton printed skirts for women. These tend to be worn more for the benefit of tourists.  less
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to In ancient cultures (worldwide), what objects or substances were used for face-painting and/or body painting?:
    • January 8
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Food for thought? The first time in your life that someone refers to you by name, it’s usually your first name, not your last name. :
    I wonder if that's why in some cultures a ritual of initiation confers a new name when a kid reaches the age of adult responsibility.It might create a release from child-mind.It would be interesting if some anthropology or psychology student took it up as...  moreI wonder if that's why in some cultures a ritual of initiation confers a new name when a kid reaches the age of adult responsibility.It might create a release from child-mind.It would be interesting if some anthropology or psychology student took it up as a topic for a PhD.  
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Food for thought? The first time in your life that someone refers to you by name, it’s usually your first name, not your last name. :
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~:
     

    Nope - and probably missed out on many opportunities because of it.I've noticed men frequently get jobs this way. If they're smart they learn quickly and soon become competent.It's a balls thing I think -- takes testosterone to take risks.
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~:
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~:
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~:
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to In betting, what does 'over/under' mean?:
    Not a clue.I'll be watching this thread to see what I can learn.
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to When you’re scheduled for a medical appointment and know ahead of time that you’ll be providing a urine sample, do you drink water at least :
    Ha ha! :DAmazing!Surely, the diagnosis you need is useless if it isn't your own pee.Better to abstain from the weed for 8 days.
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to How LONG before Iran retaliates? HOW LONG before TRUMP is killed by those he just attacked? HOW LONG? Weeks? Days? Months? NOT LONG.:
    The experts on Iran are saying it's highly unlikely that Iran would try to engage in a direct conventional war with the USA -that Iranians are highly rational people and know they couldn't win.The experts say its highly likely that Iran will fund proxies ...  moreThe experts on Iran are saying it's highly unlikely that Iran would try to engage in a direct conventional war with the USA -that Iranians are highly rational people and know they couldn't win.The experts say its highly likely that Iran will fund proxies to attack US stations in Iraq, Lebanon and throughout the Middle East.They will do it guerilla-style, rush in and rush out, so there's no obvious target or proof for reprisals.  
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to John Bolton is GOING TO TESTIFY. LOL He LOATHES MULVANEY AND POMPEO. And EVERYONE loathes TRUMP. RIP DONNIE:
    I'll be watching the developments closely.
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality.:
    Feeling sadness for you, Slarti.I wonder whether, in her case, she was experiencing natural grief, and some doctor decided it was too extreme or going on for too long and decided to slap the label of depression on her feelings.I believe it's important for...  moreFeeling sadness for you, Slarti.I wonder whether, in her case, she was experiencing natural grief, and some doctor decided it was too extreme or going on for too long and decided to slap the label of depression on her feelings.I believe it's important for people to grieve naturally in their own way,and that there's nothing better that supportive and loving friends who normalise it and let it be OK to go through the process.If she ever comes off the SNRI, there's a good chance that the unresolved grief will re-emerge and so she who still have to go through the terrible sense of loss.You might know her work already. Elizabeth Kubler Ross is perhaps the world's best writer on grief.Very hard on you with her libido down.Glad she still enjoys the bungee sometimes. :)  less
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality.:
    Whether this question is treated as a joke or not doesn't matter to me.If someone wants to play with the humour in meds and craziness - that's fine - perfect topic.But having lived through it, I know how dire it can be - and I know there's a high probabil...  moreWhether this question is treated as a joke or not doesn't matter to me.If someone wants to play with the humour in meds and craziness - that's fine - perfect topic.But having lived through it, I know how dire it can be - and I know there's a high probability that there are others here who've had similar experiences - or other versions with different conditions and meds.I know it's possible to eliminate the shame and give each other mutual support by talking about it.When one initiates, sometimes it can often help others to feel free to do the same.Sites like this are great fun for humour, but they can also serve as a social resource for health and well-being.  less
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Imagine you find yourself in Randy D’s office, and you’ve just signed a $10,000 contract to buy tildes from him. Lucky, aren’t you? ~:
    Not sure.Randy loves his tildes so much,he might have designed them to boomerang back home to him. ;)
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to If the United States of America was supposedly such a wonderful country during its first 150 years, why did Civil Rights have to be both:
    It never was.The fact that legislation is necessary, and still not successfully enforced, is proof enough.But the evidence is also there in history, archeology, drama, dance, song and every form of literature.America's greatest novelists have made it abun...  moreIt never was.The fact that legislation is necessary, and still not successfully enforced, is proof enough.But the evidence is also there in history, archeology, drama, dance, song and every form of literature.America's greatest novelists have made it abundantly clear.We humans frequently fall short of our ideals.Yet it is always worth doing our best and educating our young towards them.Hopefully, one generation at a time, we gradually evolve towards something better.  
    • January 7
  • Jonny Goat
    Jonny Goat is now friends with bookworm.
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality.:
    Hi Goaty! :)I understand the need to keep details private.Some people have prejudice towards people who've had to battle with such issues - and that can make the suffering worse.In my case, I'm open about it because I believe it can help fellow sufferers ...  moreHi Goaty! :)I understand the need to keep details private.Some people have prejudice towards people who've had to battle with such issues - and that can make the suffering worse.In my case, I'm open about it because I believe it can help fellow sufferers - though I need to complete the last part of the story to show what worked as healing in my case.I'm less open about the seeds, my parents' mutual alcoholism (how they behaved under the influence). A time came when I was able to forgive them because I realised where and how they were wounded and why they could never recover.Love is indeed the most healing force on the planet.And I fully get it why Twinkle was the one to have this effect for you.He had a marvellously healing effect on me too.I need to tell him when I get the chance.It was through his faith in my writing that I gained the courage to go to uni and take it up seriously.He' like an angel, like Barbarella, the way he sprinkles his miracles of love.I am so, so happy that you two have found each ot...    less
    • January 7
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality.:
    OK - returning here to continue my answer.So, during that first two years on the SSRI, Aropax, my happiness was related to the new ability to notice and savour the simplest pleasures - fresh air, a hot shower, a cup of tea, the flower on a weed in a gutte...  moreOK - returning here to continue my answer.So, during that first two years on the SSRI, Aropax, my happiness was related to the new ability to notice and savour the simplest pleasures - fresh air, a hot shower, a cup of tea, the flower on a weed in a gutter.In the beginning, the drug had little effect on my sex drive. But as is accumulated in my system, a shift took place. I moved from desire and enthusiasm to just not minding if I had sex or not. Although Ari still did what had always worked before, nothing could turn me on. I did it for Ari's pleasure. Over the two years, my loss of libido slowly increased. Physiological changes made it uncomfortable and I became averse. This was emotionally very painful for Ari who felt rejected and unloved. It says a lot for the depth of friendship that our relationship survived this phase.Ari and I got married at about this time - and the honeymoon was a beautiful sojourn in Daintree National Park, but utterly sexless.One of the best surprises was losing my fear of people. T...    less
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What's the right way to encourage a badly overweight person to start losing weight?:
    That freight train sentence is worthy of James Joyce; it's grammatically perfect.We shorten sentences to make them easier for others to read. It's a cognitive thing. As listeners or readers, most of us have 45-second attention spans. How the parts of a se...  moreThat freight train sentence is worthy of James Joyce; it's grammatically perfect.We shorten sentences to make them easier for others to read. It's a cognitive thing. As listeners or readers, most of us have 45-second attention spans. How the parts of a sentence relate to the whole requires holding the phrases and clauses in working memory long enough to grok the full meaning. Brevity keeps us alert. Also, we vary sentence length to make the reading less predictable, the better to hold the reader's attention. Strunk & White's classic, "The Elements of Style," provides advice on how to be concise. (Which, of course, I frequently disobey.)If we all wrote according to the style manual, we would lose the personality in our voices.In our minds, many of us ramble with freight train sentences. I think we are blessed that Livvie has privileged us with a window into her internal workings.  less
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What's the right way to encourage a badly overweight person to start losing weight?:
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Did you lose a life partner? Then you know how I feel. My husband of 62 years died on Christmas Day 2019.....:
    I'm sorry you lost your wife.I think being alone before and after marriage is different.Before, one takes solo existence as the norm.After, there's a period of adapting emotionally to not having someone around who knows you almost as well as she knows her...  moreI'm sorry you lost your wife.I think being alone before and after marriage is different.Before, one takes solo existence as the norm.After, there's a period of adapting emotionally to not having someone around who knows you almost as well as she knows herself.Close companionship is the biggest loss for people who've had a good marriage.  
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger.:
    Your 2nd statement = fair point. :)
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to There is only one caste the caste of humanity. There is only one religion the religion of love. There is only one language .....:
    Amen. :)
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality.:
    Haven't been on meds for 8 years.But prior to that, I was on an antidepressant (SSRI) for two years the first time, and six years the second.The first time, it took four weeks for the effects to kick in, but when they did it was a revelation.It was sudden...  moreHaven't been on meds for 8 years.But prior to that, I was on an antidepressant (SSRI) for two years the first time, and six years the second.The first time, it took four weeks for the effects to kick in, but when they did it was a revelation.It was suddenly clear that throughout my life, I had rarely been happy, didn't really know what happiness was.Suddenly, even breathing was a pleasure.The effects accumulated over time - leading eventually to a total loss of fear - and that became dangerous.Have to go now, but I'll return tomorrow to finish the post.Love to you, Twinks, dear man, and to Goaty.  less
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Chemistry question...What is wrong with this statement? :
    Thanks for the pick, Ele.  :)
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Did you lose a life partner? Then you know how I feel. My husband of 62 years died on Christmas Day 2019.....:
    Feeling so sad hearing about his death, remembering how close you were.I'm sure it will be a huge thing adapting to being on your own.The hardest times can be later, after all the funeral, the paperwork and the condolences have died down.If you ever feel ...  moreFeeling so sad hearing about his death, remembering how close you were.I'm sure it will be a huge thing adapting to being on your own.The hardest times can be later, after all the funeral, the paperwork and the condolences have died down.If you ever feel like a chat, please feel free to message me.warmly,Manna  
    • January 6
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger.:
    Wow! I never guessed.Here in Australia, 'spunk' means sperm, and 'spunky' means an attractive and sexually active man.So I'd always guessed that your avatar indicated a grey-haired American man who was on the lookout for sex or affairs,or maybe just havin...  moreWow! I never guessed.Here in Australia, 'spunk' means sperm, and 'spunky' means an attractive and sexually active man.So I'd always guessed that your avatar indicated a grey-haired American man who was on the lookout for sex or affairs,or maybe just having a joke about his age.Thank you.I genuinely appreciate it when someone corrects my mistakes.  
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger.:
    You're eloquent in your own way.How you use words perfectly expresses you.I wouldn't want it any other way. :)
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Chemistry question...Waht is wrong with this statement? :
    Since this question comes from a man who loves to be tricksie...'Waht' is spelled whatand the 'statement' is not a statement but a question.Treating the question as a question...Had to look up the answer because it's way outside my field.The brief version...  moreSince this question comes from a man who loves to be tricksie...'Waht' is spelled whatand the 'statement' is not a statement but a question.Treating the question as a question...Had to look up the answer because it's way outside my field.The brief version: not all rare earths are lanthanides.The long version:Scandium and yttrium are not lanthanides because they have some similar but not exactly the same chemical properties. They are rare earths not because they are uncommon, but because they are difficult to get at or isolate.Source info for finding the answer:Definition of  lanthanide  /ˈlanθənʌɪd/ noun








    any of the series of fifteen metallic elements from lanthanum to lutetium in the periodic table (atomic numbers 57–71).








    from Wikipedia -The 17  rare-earth elements are cerium (Ce), dysprosium (Dy), erbium (Er), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), holmium (Ho), lanthanum (La), lutetium (Lu), neodymium (Nd), praseodymium ...    less
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What's the right way to encourage a badly overweight person to start losing weight?:
    I suspect your chances of being able to help are not great, Livvie.There is a chance, that because the rest of your cousin's family are not overweight, it might be a medical issue rather than overeating.Possible medical reasons can include:hypothyroidismC...  moreI suspect your chances of being able to help are not great, Livvie.There is a chance, that because the rest of your cousin's family are not overweight, it might be a medical issue rather than overeating.Possible medical reasons can include:hypothyroidismCushing's diseasetaking steroids (eg for asthma, allergies, inflammatory conditions)water retentionpolycystic ovariesYour cousin might not object to a check-up to discover whether there is a medical condition.At that point, the doctor might be able to say somethingand it may come across as more objective than things the family might say.Attempts at influence from family or friends tend to backfire.They often result in the food-addict feeling an increase of toxic shame and hence eating more to try to drown the distress.If it's is a psychological issue, then it needs a specialist in food disorders - and that could be extremely expensive.Overeaters Anonymous is free. It's a twelve-step program for people with problems related to food including, but not limited ...    less
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Why can’t the media just shut the hell up with PRECISE DETAILS about US military units going overseas in response to threats?:
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Why can’t the media just shut the hell up with PRECISE DETAILS about US military units going overseas in response to threats?:
    I dare say that military experts would understand strategy far better than I ever could.But I think the element of surprise is only one tactic in war.Most wars are more like the games of Go, Chess, or Football.Both sides know almost everything about the e...  moreI dare say that military experts would understand strategy far better than I ever could.But I think the element of surprise is only one tactic in war.Most wars are more like the games of Go, Chess, or Football.Both sides know almost everything about the enemy's position.Both manoeuvre for advantage but can't always achieve it.Both know all the possible moves of the other up to many moves ahead.Both make contingency plans for all eventualities.  
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger.:
    Yeah - I know.But you're a friend.I felt like confiding.Apologies.I'll keep it more to the point on the mainboard in future.
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What is a situation wherein it’s inappropriate for someone to display their sense of humor? ~:
    1. When it triggers distress for the target of the humour.This includes indirect delivery, such as when the target is not present.For instance, racist jokes encourage and perpetuate disrespect and create a social atmosphere which permits worse abuses...  more1. When it triggers distress for the target of the humour.This includes indirect delivery, such as when the target is not present.For instance, racist jokes encourage and perpetuate disrespect and create a social atmosphere which permits worse abuses to become more likely.2. In situations which demand serious attention, such as in court.Though I can imagine some types of jokes would occur,such as unexpected expressions of the absurd,which wouldn't disturb the general need for gravitas.3. At times of grieving, tragedy or emergency.Exceptions - if such times are painfully prolonged, humour can sometimes act as a leaven to relieve the suffering.It takes a lot of nous and sensitivity to judge this correctly.  less
    • January 5
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What’s the most recent thing you did to help a stranger? It doesn’t have to be anything big, maybe you picked up a dropped ink pen or waved:
    Hmm. You're probably right.We don't have a bath, unfortunately, but I'm sure he would have appreciated a shower, a chance to use the washing machine, and a bed.We don't have a spare bed, or enough space for more than two in our place. It's one of those po...  moreHmm. You're probably right.We don't have a bath, unfortunately, but I'm sure he would have appreciated a shower, a chance to use the washing machine, and a bed.We don't have a spare bed, or enough space for more than two in our place. It's one of those portable things on wheels with an extension on the front and a roof thrown over the top.But I could have put up a tent for him, and given him a mattress and sheets.Then the question would arise whether I should give him a place for as long as the tent lasted.And whether Ari would agree.He tends to be possessive about his privacy.Your comment reminds me of another episode...
    An unkempt, sunburned guy with a canvas satchel stood on my side of the road with his thumb out. Instinct said he looked harmless enough and I was in the mood for practising unconditional love. I stopped.
    ‘I’m Gus - heading to Eungella,’ he said. 
    ‘Manna,’ I replied. ‘It’s on my way.’
    He climbed into the passenger seat of my van, shut the doo...    less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Why can’t the media just shut the hell up about US military units going overseas in response to threats?:
    I'm glad you had time to read them. :)I discovered I'd accidentally written them into another Mugger's reply window. :/Then couldn't find the right spot to re-post it to you.Ha ha!We'd be like best bosom buddies, or the best of brother-sister, confiding a...  moreI'm glad you had time to read them. :)I discovered I'd accidentally written them into another Mugger's reply window. :/Then couldn't find the right spot to re-post it to you.Ha ha!We'd be like best bosom buddies, or the best of brother-sister, confiding all our daily ups and downs.I think the light of consciousness would flow both ways,the wildflower nectars, seeds, herbal creativities would flow both ways  --and we'd draw Goaty in.We take him out with us in search of great landscape photography shots.Or I might drop you off at great locations where you could camp and he, like an Ansell Adams, could capture the best light.Sponging knowledge - that's easy. The internet is amazing.I had the sense of you being quite young when we first encountered each other. I think you were dancing and landscaping and still not sure of your future direction. Also, I don't think you'd yet found your life partner. It's wonderful that you found him here on the Mug. Wonderful seeing you move through these life changes.I see the ...    less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What’s the most recent thing you did to help a stranger? It doesn’t have to be anything big, maybe you picked up a dropped ink pen or waved:
    In the supermarket last week.A guy ahead of me in the queue had only a few items of food, but when he reached into his pockets he had only $3.05.I paid the balance.He had a deep tan, was very skinny, and his clothes were filthy.My guess is he was homeless.
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to What’s the most recent thing a stranger did to help you out? It doesn’t have to be anything big, maybe he or she offered a few coins at the:
    Day to day, the need doesn't arise.Early in 2008, I was catapulted from the back of a young horse on a fire trail in a national park on the day before an endurance ride.I had managed to get up, catch the horse and get back on, though it was hard to breath...  moreDay to day, the need doesn't arise.Early in 2008, I was catapulted from the back of a young horse on a fire trail in a national park on the day before an endurance ride.I had managed to get up, catch the horse and get back on, though it was hard to breathe.A stranger on another horse happened by, saw how pale I looked, and offered help.She stayed with me until we got back to camp.She organised her son to tend my horse (unsaddle, put him in his yard, give him a feed and drink)and organised another member of her team to take me to the local hospital.The local doctor made a false diagnosis and sent me back with a bunch of pain killers.Four days later I collapsed unconscious.Turned out to be four broken ribs and a punctured lung.As a result of her kindness and my gratitude, we became friends.  less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Scientists in 1990, gave spiders drugs to see what would happen when they built a web. Guess which one was high? :
    I found the news report.Amazing! -- going on since the 1940's and results reliably replicated by separate organisations.It turns out spiders have neural cells which occupy their cephalothorax, cells which in some species extends into the legs.So all it ta...  moreI found the news report.Amazing! -- going on since the 1940's and results reliably replicated by separate organisations.It turns out spiders have neural cells which occupy their cephalothorax, cells which in some species extends into the legs.So all it takes is neural cells for psycho-active drugs to affect perception and behaviour.Maybe some types of intelligence are rooted at a far more primal level than we imagine.I experimented three or four times with some of those drugs many years ago. Don't regret what I learned.But gee, I'm glad I never took up drugs as a lifestyle.  less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Why can’t the media just shut the hell up about US military units going overseas in response to threats?:
    News reports can't aide or abet the opposition when they are about an event that has already happened.Trump's assassination of the Iranian general was conducted in complete secrecyand the world didn't hear about it until the mission was complete.When the ...  moreNews reports can't aide or abet the opposition when they are about an event that has already happened.Trump's assassination of the Iranian general was conducted in complete secrecyand the world didn't hear about it until the mission was complete.When the news is reporting that troops are heading over - that too is part of the government's war strategy.They want the enemy to know.The USA is by far the most powerful military country in the world.It can eliminate most of the Iranian population with a single nuclear bomb.Or it can deliver accurate drone strikes to any target. Trump's military advisors will probably be telling him that a weaker power will most likely surrender rather than face annihilation.But in my view, such threats are the tactics of bullies, Mafiosi and colonial imperialists.There were peaceful ways to resolve the original problems. This situation could have been prevented from arising many years ago, back in the late 70's, early 80's,by supporting the Shah of Iran to evolve towards dem...    less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Why can’t the media just shut the hell up about US military units going overseas in response to threats?:
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to WMD :
    Maybe.Initially, I didn't think Trump's assassination/murder of the Iranian general had the same set of 'justifications' as the events leading up to Gulf Wars One and Two against Hussein in Iraq.But on second thoughts, there are indeed many parallels.Both...  moreMaybe.Initially, I didn't think Trump's assassination/murder of the Iranian general had the same set of 'justifications' as the events leading up to Gulf Wars One and Two against Hussein in Iraq.But on second thoughts, there are indeed many parallels.Both countries are high oil producers. Iran can blockade one of the most important routes for oil tankers.Both countries seek to increase their trade with other nations, not necessarily favouring the USA.Both favour one branch of Islam over others, and over other religions. Iran has been cruelly repressive towards any form of religious or secular difference. Demonising these countries is a tactic to make them seem "less than"; it reduces the moral resistance to going over and slaughtering fellow human beings.The same kind of thinking underlies the acts of aggression against both Iran and Iraq (and Vietnam and Korea) - a paranoia that a potential enemy power might have or might be able to create nuclear weapons or other WMPs.In both cases, we can hear the rhetoric of...    less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to Why can’t the media just shut the hell up about US military units going overseas in response to threats?:
    It's the media's job to report on what the government does.One, every citizen has the right to know exactly how their taxes are being spent and why.Two, any action that could take a country to war has a direct impact for men and women in the armed service...  moreIt's the media's job to report on what the government does.One, every citizen has the right to know exactly how their taxes are being spent and why.Two, any action that could take a country to war has a direct impact for men and women in the armed services and their families,and all the workers in ancillary services.Three, the entire world is affected by everything the USA does overseas.NATO and the entire Middle East could easily erupt into a Third World War.This includes my country.If the USA goes to war, Australia will be legally obliged to send it's own fighters and equipment the moment the USA asks because of the ANZUS treaty.  less
    • January 4
  • bookworm
    bookworm replied to When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger.:
    Maybe.What was your bottom line, Mr Senior?
    • January 4
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  • Screen Name* bookworm
  • Gender* Female
  • About Me: Living on ­64 acres s­ubtropical­ hilly lan­d with hus­band, thre­e horses, ­cat and nu­merous wil­dlife. Stu­dying crea­tive writi­ng at Sout­hern Cross­ Universit­y. Formerl­y a sculpt­or and art­ teacher, ­an Arabian­ horse bre­eder and t­rainer, an­d an aged ­care nurse­.
    Student ye­ars - dive­rse unskil­led part-t­ime jobs. ­Subsequent­ years, vo­luntary wo­rk 7 hrs o­nce a week­, half-way­ house for­ young aut­istic adul­ts, riding­ for the d­isabled, l­ibrarian a­nd fundrai­ser for ar­tists' pro­fessional ­associatio­ns, and Li­feline tel­ephone cou­nselling.
    ­
    Atheist, B­uddhist, v­egetarian,­ small l-l­iberal, li­bertarian,­ green.
    Much invol­ved in poe­try, writi­ng and Lan­dcare (eco­logical re­pair of th­e local en­vironment.­) Diverse ­interests.­ Love crea­tivity,
    open-mind­edness, in­tellectual­ challenge­s and worl­d fusion c­ulture.

  • Christmas can be stressful for many. What stresses do you experience/ What could be done to ease that stress?

    Last post by Jaimie - December 22, 2019
    85 views 3 likes
    7

  • Whether you believe in Christmas or not, have you invited a lonely person to share time and food with you on Christmas Day? who?

    Or if you would have been alone, have you accepted an invitation...  moreOr if you would have been alone, have you accepted an invitation to spend time with a friend, neighbour or community group?Who invited you? What are they like?  
    Last post by bookworm - December 23, 2019
    94 views 2 likes
    5

  • Can we offer our support and best wishes to Slarti?

    These two volunteer firefighters died today in the Blue Mountain...  moreThese two volunteer firefighters died today in the Blue Mountains in one of the largest mega-fires. They were driving their firetruck to a fire when a burning tree fell on their truck, toppled it and crushed them. The three other members of the crew were badly injured. These volunteers are the equals of professionals in their training, experience and equipment. Australia does not yet have a paid firefighting force.Today in Adelaide - Slarti's area - the heat hit 48.8 degrees and catastrophic conditions. Fires started up all around Adelaide and one person died.There is another week of ultra-high catastrophic heat conditions predicted.Due to the drought, there is almost no likelihood of rain this summer.Electricity power lines are at risk of being downed - which will mean the failure of electricity supply for airconditioning.Smoke affects the air quality, causing sore eyes and throats and severe increases in breathing difficulties for those with asthma and lung deseases. Vulnerable people like babies, the elderly ...    less
    Last post by Nice Jugs - December 20, 2019
    41 views 1 like
    1

  • Can I take a moment to say thank you?

    America has sent some of its firefighters over here to help ours...  moreAmerica has sent some of its firefighters over here to help ours.It's still only the start of summer and already we've lost 2 million hectares to fire across fire fronts of 11,000 kilometres - half of it in precious old-growth native forests, the other half on private farmlands.Our firefighters have been fighting non-stop for over three months. Many are so exhausted they are making mistakes and getting injured.Without your help, we would have lost and would still be losing far more.THANK YOU, America from the deepest places in my heart.I can confidently say every other Australian feels the same.  less
    Last post by Randy D - December 19, 2019
    37 views 2 likes
    2

  • Is adventure something you love to create or seek out? Or something you'd rather take care to avoid? And why?

    Last post by Randy D - December 14, 2019
    72 views 2 likes
    2

  • What's your definition of an adventure? What's an example of an experience you would consider adventurous?

    Last post by Element 99 - December 14, 2019
    69 views 1 like
    1

  • What happened in your most recent adventure?

    Last post by Nice Jugs - December 22, 2019
    161 views 4 likes
    22

  • Which works best? Viewing things as either/or, as polar opposites, as spectrums, or as the result of complexity?

    Last post by Randy D - December 12, 2019
    102 views 0 likes
    3

  • If reincarnation was a certainty and you could choose your rebirth, what would you choose?

    Last post by Slartibartfast - December 12, 2019
    191 views 3 likes
    19

  • Where is JA these days? Has she gone out to get a second job?

    Last post by bookworm - December 9, 2019
    181 views 5 likes
    10

  • Has anyone here seen David Attenborough's documentary on climate change? What did you think? Will it change the way you live? If so, how?

    Last post by Don Barzini - December 8, 2019
    163 views 4 likes
    13

  • What are some common misconceptions about hypnosis?

    Last post by Randy D - December 7, 2019
    172 views 3 likes
    17

  • What is your definition of a "snob"? Can you give an example?

    Last post by Slartibartfast - December 1, 2019
    83 views 1 like
    5

  • Do you wear glasses? If so, what do you find are the worst hassles about them?

    What are your do's and don'ts about taking care of themand helpi...  moreWhat are your do's and don'ts about taking care of themand helping them last as long as possible without damage?What are the big no-no's that cause the greatest risk of damage?  
    Last post by Walt O'Reagun - November 29, 2019
    171 views 3 likes
    9

  • What do you think of Australia's current Prime Minister?

    I've deliberately left out any information. This is to gauge how...  moreI've deliberately left out any information. This is to gauge how much the non-Aussies might know about what goes on down under.  
    Last post by I LOVE LEV PARNAS - November 26, 2019
    148 views 3 likes
    14

  • How is climate change affecting you in your area?

    We have catastrophic fires raging here in Australia.The fear - m...  moreWe have catastrophic fires raging here in Australia.The fear - my body won't stop quivering.I've written a blog about it here on the Mug.  
    Last post by Durdle - November 24, 2019
    250 views 3 likes
    25

  • What kinds of humour do you enjoy most? And what kinds do you find unfunny?

    Last post by officegirl - October 27, 2019
    264 views 3 likes
    22

  • What is your definition of intelligent?

    Last post by CallMeIshmael - October 26, 2019
    161 views 4 likes
    17

  • When in life have you felt most alone? What were the circumstances?

    Last post by Jonny Goat - October 26, 2019
    142 views 4 likes
    8

  • What was the happiest moment of your life so far?

    Last post by CosmicWunderkind - November 8, 2019
    121 views 2 likes
    5

  • Who has been the most important person in your life? Will you share a bit about him or her?

    Last post by Don Barzini - October 26, 2019
    123 views 1 like
    5

  • Six answers requested from each person who replies:

    What is your current favourite:1. colour2. sound3. scent or arom...  moreWhat is your current favourite:1. colour2. sound3. scent or aroma4. flavour5. feeling, sensation, touch or temperature6. thing to think about  
    Last post by ok boomer - November 9, 2019
    214 views 5 likes
    12

  • If you could write a little passport which said what you would like others to understand about you, what would it say?

    This question was invented by Theodore Zeldin, but I think it's ...  moreThis question was invented by Theodore Zeldin, but I think it's brilliant. :)  
    Last post by Just Asking - August 25, 2019
    155 views 1 like
    3

  • What will you do to help yourself survive if we get another GFC this year?

    An inverted bond yield has proved a predictor of the last six re...  moreAn inverted bond yield has proved a predictor of the last six recessions in the USA.
    Right now the US bond market is staring investors straight in the eye and saying, "there's a recession on the way".
    When the yield on 10-year US government bonds finally slipped below 2-year yields overnight, equity markets dropped, around $1.2 trillion on the S&P500. Yield curve inversions are seen as solid predictors of recessions over the next one to two years.Equity markets often enjoy a last gasp rally after a bond inversion, but on average fall 30pc once recession bites.Rising trade tensions, crumbling manufacturing data, low inflation and weaker US profits are key drivers of the collapse of short term bond yields below the 10-year rate  less
    Last post by Don Barzini - August 18, 2019
    193 views 3 likes
    10

  • Have you read any of Toni Morrison's novels? If so, which one and what were your thoughts?

    I guess you will all have heard that Toni Morrison died today, a...  moreI guess you will all have heard that Toni Morrison died today, aged 81.I loved her novel, Béloved, a brilliant fusion of magical realism and history.Morrison makes Christianity and African beliefs work in the novel as though they were as tangible as the laws of physics. The ghost of a murdered baby haunts a family who has escaped the horrific cruelties inflicted on them while they were slaves. The ghost has grown and appears the same age as she would have been had she lived. She lives and acts within the household like a living person, eating, drinking, occupying a bed, and having an affair with a man, but she has the emotions of a jealous and tantrum-prone three-year-old. The tensions build as the unresolved traumas spread to affect some members of the town until finally an act of extraordinary spiritual courage and wisdom brings the story to its climax.
    Reading this story gives a powerful sense of how intergenerational trauma works and why it should never be dismissed. Morrison used newspaper clippings ...    less
    Last post by ben1011 - October 30, 2019
    173 views 4 likes
    6

  • U.S. designates China a currency manipulator, escalating trade war. How do you think China might react?

    Last post by CallMeIshmael - August 6, 2019
    146 views 0 likes
    5

  • What if some terrorist took out all electricity stations? How would you cope without computers and the internet?

    Last post by Don Barzini - August 6, 2019
    188 views 2 likes
    7

  • In your view, what is the best way to express your opinion honestly without offending others?

    Last post by SpunkySenior - August 7, 2019
    221 views 3 likes
    16

  • Which celebrities do you think best use success to do good? Please describe the good he or she does.

    Last post by CallMeIshmael - August 6, 2019
    176 views 1 like
    5

  • If you were brave enough to start a new business, what would it be? What would you hope to achieve?

    Last post by Randy D - August 7, 2019
    358 views 3 likes
    12

  • Of the novels you studied at school, which one stands out? What are the lasting impressions? Did the story affect the way you view life?

    Last post by Ritesh - August 10, 2019
    151 views 2 likes
    2

  • How does your beauty or (self-perceived) lack of it affect the way you relate to others?

    Last post by Stemmata949 - September 10, 2019
    140 views 1 like
    2

  • What was your worst parenting experience?

    Last post by Randy D - December 12, 2019
    224 views 2 likes
    10

  • Do you have an art or craft that you particularly enjoy? As consumer, or as practitioner? What is it? What do you most love about it?

    Last post by Slartibartfast - October 4, 2019
    377 views 1 like
    29

  • Is there someone among your acquaintances in real life whom you'd love to invite to join answerMug?

    Last post by Jane S - August 6, 2019
    143 views 3 likes
    2

  • What did you secretly hope for when you joined answerMug?

    Last post by Stu Spelling Bee - August 8, 2019
    730 views 7 likes
    61

  • What is your pet's most inconvenient habit?

    Last post by Slartibartfast - August 6, 2019
    231 views 3 likes
    21

  • Have you ever rescued or befriended a wild animal? Care to share the story?

    Last post by Archerchef - September 10, 2019
    202 views 1 like
    10

  • Let's think laterally. What are some totally way out impossible solutions to climate change?

    Last post by Don Barzini - August 6, 2019
    243 views 2 likes
    18

  • Do you think a few rockets could propel Earth into a slightly larger orbit round the Sun, to cool the atmosphere & oceans a few degrees?

    Last post by Durdle - August 7, 2019
    347 views 2 likes
    29

  • What's your view on proportional representation in your country - are you for or against?

    What do you see as the advantages and disadvantages?
    Last post by bookworm - July 25, 2019
    136 views 0 likes
    4

  • What are the things you would love to know more about? What is your favourite way to learn?

    Last post by SavvyAnsley - July 18, 2019
    368 views 3 likes
    22

  • If I stood on my head to undo the effects of an over-serious mind would you like me better?

    Last post by Benedict Arnold - July 15, 2019
    177 views 4 likes
    8

  • What are some commonly mistaken beliefs about living an environmentally sustainable lifestyle?

    Last post by Glis: Ambivalent Misanthrope. - July 15, 2019
    176 views 2 likes
    7

  • Who's thinking of leaving this site due to the recent spate of puerile and trollish questions?

    Last post by Benedict Arnold - July 15, 2019
    380 views 3 likes
    17

  • What are a few of the things that you know you don't know but would love to learn?

    Last post by Benedict Arnold - July 24, 2019
    231 views 3 likes
    8

  • How do you know what you think you know?

    Is it intuition?Did you learn it from direct experience?Did you ...  moreIs it intuition?Did you learn it from direct experience?Did you learn and forget so it sunk into your unconscious?Is what was true then still true now?Is it what you were taught when young?Did you read it in a book, see it on You-Tube or a documentary?Did you ever check to see if it was really true?Did you experiment to find out?Or did you never need to because it always seemed to work reliably?  
    Last post by Benedict Arnold - July 6, 2019
    230 views 1 like
    7

  • How much hogwash is there about Native American traditions?

    Have they been so bastardised by New Age subcultures that it is ...  moreHave they been so bastardised by New Age subcultures that it is now hard to find the truth of what was authentic before whites arrived?Are there elders who still carry and teach the old traditions?Has any of it been recorded for posterity, not by white academics, but by Native Americans?How varied or similar are the customs and rites in each tribe?What wisdom from Native American cultures could the world benefit from now?  
    Last post by bookworm - July 4, 2019
    301 views 2 likes
    15

  • Hey, yogis and gay guys - this man is exquisite. Please check him out and say what you think... :)

    highlight and copy:YouTube - Simon Borg-Olivia - "advanced spina...  morehighlight and copy:YouTube - Simon Borg-Olivia - "advanced spinal yoga sequence demonstration" - this shows just how beautiful the human body can be.At the end of this clip, he incorporates tai chi, nauli and pranayama.He is 65, was born in Malta, is an Australian citizen and resident, has a DSc in Anatomy and Physiology, trained as a yogi in India under Iyengar and Ashtanga.He was not born hyper-flexible. I've witnessed him doing this stuff since he reached this standard at about 26.He is now one of the world's top teachers of yoga.And yes, like Patanjali, for him the training of the body is only the preparation for meditation.His key message is, "don't stretch. Relax! It's the key to flexibility.  less
    Last post by bookworm - June 29, 2019
    184 views 1 like
    9

  • Can you think of a practical application for quantum physics?

    Australian of the Year awards: Quantum physicist Michelle Yvonne...  moreAustralian of the Year awards: Quantum physicist Michelle Yvonne Simmons receives 2018 honour
     
    Last year, Michelle Yvonne Simons received the award of Australian of the Year for her contributions to quantum physics and its practical applications.She has launched Australia into "the space race of the computing era".
    Simons, a Brit, formerly professor physics at Cambridge in England, said she emigrated to Australia and became a citizen because the country accepts young leaders in science, has public funds available to fund research, and its scientists have a culture of cooperative team spirit.
    Since arriving in Australia from Britain in 1999, Professor Simmons' work at the University of NSW quantum physics department has helped develop leading technology on a global scale.
    Five years ago, Professor Simmons and her team developed the world's first transistor made from a single atom, as well as the world's thinnest wire.
    Now she is looking to build a quantum computer capable of solving problems in minutes, whi...    less
    Last post by tom jackson - June 21, 2019
    279 views 2 likes
    12
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  • Thanks for the pick, Kitty.Too trusting. Yes. I had that experie...  moreThanks for the pick, Kitty.Too trusting. Yes. I had that experience very early.Was commissioned to do a portrait of a man's Dalmation dog. When it was done he loved it but refused to pay the agreed price or give the portrait back. At the time, I really needed that money and was very angry. Art materials are hideously expensive. Yet there were no local police and so absolutely nothing I could do about it.But I meant being poor at business in a much broader way. It's OK for an artist to state the facts of their achievements - such as one would find in a CV, or to advertise an upcoming event with the date, time, place and nature of the work. But it's not OK for an artist to boast about the quality, originality and significance of their work. Someone else has to do that for them.If a writer decides to self-publish, which is commonplace and acceptable these days, he or she has to give up writing and go on the road to festivals and bookshops to sell the work. Selling online is notoriously disastrous, especially v...    less
    in What do you think is the best option when a person wants to try make a living using their creative talents?... January 8, 2020 4:02 PM MST 1
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 8, 2020 4:02 PM MST
  • I believe it.Some Aussies have an awful lot of bravado.Glad to h...  moreI believe it.Some Aussies have an awful lot of bravado.Glad to hear your experience has been about 50:50 male to female. I wonder whether it's related to the industry you work in.Was it difficult to check their references and qualifications?How did you discover that they had lied their way into the position?  
    in Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~ January 8, 2020 3:30 PM MST 1
  • Know? No.I think some gestures tend to be very widespread, but I...  moreKnow? No.I think some gestures tend to be very widespread, but I don't think any are universal.Variations of empty-handedness often signify a greeting with the undertone, "I'm here peacefully; I carry no weapon."I doubt if any languages have any words with universally equal meanings. Related languages carry similarities in their roots, but the more foreign the language the less similarity.Linguists agree that the relationship between an object, the word it is called by and what it signifies is arbitrary.One exception may be the word "ma" for mother. It is thought by some linguists to be fairly close to universal, perhaps because it tends to be one of the first word-like sounds a baby makes.  less
    in Do you know any hand signs and gestures or words that are universal? January 8, 2020 3:26 PM MST 4
  • Difficult. With rare exceptions, most cultures in most parts of ...  moreDifficult. With rare exceptions, most cultures in most parts of the world do not pay well for art.Therefore, to make a living at it, one has to excel.There's a common joke - "I don't know much about art but I know what I like." It's worth thinking long and hard about why it's a joke.What makes art art actually has very little to do with taste.Aim to develop exceptionally high technical or craft skills. To achieve this requires around 10-hours practice per day for a minimum of 10 years, and never ceasing to practise and improve.Know the field thoroughly; allow influence from the greats but never plagiarise; avoid gimmickry, aim for meaningful originality.Be free with emotional expression, depth of insight, and showing the truth of the human condition and the life of this planet.Be aware of the existence of politics in all fields of the arts. It is unavoidable. Be honest with oneself as to whether one has what it takes to diplomatically negotiate this minefield. Patronage and promotion are inextricably locked up i...    less
    in What do you think is the best option when a person wants to try make a living using their creative talents?... January 8, 2020 10:29 AM MST 2
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 8, 2020 10:29 AM MST
  • What a complex question!I love the land of Australia and its cli...  moreWhat a complex question!I love the land of Australia and its climate, geography and ecologies.I love that we have a democracy, relatively low crime rates and high freedom of speech and lifestyle.I would prefer it if our social safety nets were better and stronger than they are. They're not bad compared to many countries, but they fall far short of the actual need, and this has been getting worse over the last forty years.I loathe and feel ashamed of many aspects of Anglo-Australian culture: colonial history, continuing racism (1 in 6 have racist attitudes of some sort), and environmental violation, ignorance, greed and irresponsibility.But Australians are a mixed lot. One cannot make assumptions based on how someone looks. 29% were born overseas. 49% are born of first or second-generation immigrants - and these come from all countries across the planet. I very much enjoy the contributions migrants have made. They've made us more aware of other parts of the world, other ways of thinking, and have shown us the imp...    less
    in No country (or better stated, government) is perfect, no country has a spotlessly perfect history. Is it wrong to love one’s country even January 8, 2020 10:00 AM MST 2
  • Varying from one nation to another, Aborigines in Australia pain...  moreVarying from one nation to another, Aborigines in Australia painted ochre in significant designs on their bodies. They also wore wrist and ankle bands made of woven string and animal skins, with women often wearing skirts made from emu or other bird feathers. Designs and sacred object varied with the creation stories from one region to another. In South Australia, a certain species of red-bean was made into bead necklaces worn by the men. Across all the colder regions, kangaroo skin cloaks were worn. Sacred objects included clap sticks and digeridoos.Modern ceremonial dress adds bright red loincloths for men, and bras with colourful cotton printed skirts for women. These tend to be worn more for the benefit of tourists.  less
    in In ancient cultures (worldwide), what objects or substances were used for face-painting and/or body painting? January 8, 2020 9:30 AM MST 2
  • I wonder if that's why in some cultures a ritual of initiation c...  moreI wonder if that's why in some cultures a ritual of initiation confers a new name when a kid reaches the age of adult responsibility.It might create a release from child-mind.It would be interesting if some anthropology or psychology student took it up as a topic for a PhD.  
    in Food for thought? The first time in your life that someone refers to you by name, it’s usually your first name, not your last name. January 7, 2020 5:07 PM MST 2
  •  

    Nope - and probably missed out on many opportunities bec...  more     

    Nope - and probably missed out on many opportunities because of it.I've noticed men frequently get jobs this way. If they're smart they learn quickly and soon become competent.It's a balls thing I think -- takes testosterone to take risks.  
    in Have you ever bluffed your way into something you clearly did not deserve? Just shot off your pie hole until you were in. ~ January 7, 2020 4:58 PM MST 1
  • Not a clue.I'll be watching this thread to see what I can learn.
    in In betting, what does 'over/under' mean? January 7, 2020 4:51 PM MST 2
  • Ha ha! :DAmazing!Surely, the diagnosis you need is useless if it...  moreHa ha! :DAmazing!Surely, the diagnosis you need is useless if it isn't your own pee.Better to abstain from the weed for 8 days.  
    in When you’re scheduled for a medical appointment and know ahead of time that you’ll be providing a urine sample, do you drink water at least January 7, 2020 4:49 PM MST 1
  • The experts on Iran are saying it's highly unlikely that Iran wo...  moreThe experts on Iran are saying it's highly unlikely that Iran would try to engage in a direct conventional war with the USA -that Iranians are highly rational people and know they couldn't win.The experts say its highly likely that Iran will fund proxies to attack US stations in Iraq, Lebanon and throughout the Middle East.They will do it guerilla-style, rush in and rush out, so there's no obvious target or proof for reprisals.  
    in How LONG before Iran retaliates? HOW LONG before TRUMP is killed by those he just attacked? HOW LONG? Weeks? Days? Months? NOT LONG. January 7, 2020 4:45 PM MST 0
  • I'll be watching the developments closely.
    in John Bolton is GOING TO TESTIFY. LOL He LOATHES MULVANEY AND POMPEO. And EVERYONE loathes TRUMP. RIP DONNIE January 7, 2020 4:40 PM MST 1
  • Feeling sadness for you, Slarti.I wonder whether, in her case, s...  moreFeeling sadness for you, Slarti.I wonder whether, in her case, she was experiencing natural grief, and some doctor decided it was too extreme or going on for too long and decided to slap the label of depression on her feelings.I believe it's important for people to grieve naturally in their own way,and that there's nothing better that supportive and loving friends who normalise it and let it be OK to go through the process.If she ever comes off the SNRI, there's a good chance that the unresolved grief will re-emerge and so she who still have to go through the terrible sense of loss.You might know her work already. Elizabeth Kubler Ross is perhaps the world's best writer on grief.Very hard on you with her libido down.Glad she still enjoys the bungee sometimes. :)  less
    in Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality. January 7, 2020 4:38 PM MST 1
  • Whether this question is treated as a joke or not doesn't matter...  moreWhether this question is treated as a joke or not doesn't matter to me.If someone wants to play with the humour in meds and craziness - that's fine - perfect topic.But having lived through it, I know how dire it can be - and I know there's a high probability that there are others here who've had similar experiences - or other versions with different conditions and meds.I know it's possible to eliminate the shame and give each other mutual support by talking about it.When one initiates, sometimes it can often help others to feel free to do the same.Sites like this are great fun for humour, but they can also serve as a social resource for health and well-being.  less
    in Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality. January 7, 2020 4:28 PM MST 1
  • Not sure.Randy loves his tildes so much,he might have designed t...  moreNot sure.Randy loves his tildes so much,he might have designed them to boomerang back home to him. ;)  
    in Imagine you find yourself in Randy D’s office, and you’ve just signed a $10,000 contract to buy tildes from him. Lucky, aren’t you? ~ January 7, 2020 4:21 PM MST 1
  • It never was.The fact that legislation is necessary, and still n...  moreIt never was.The fact that legislation is necessary, and still not successfully enforced, is proof enough.But the evidence is also there in history, archeology, drama, dance, song and every form of literature.America's greatest novelists have made it abundantly clear.We humans frequently fall short of our ideals.Yet it is always worth doing our best and educating our young towards them.Hopefully, one generation at a time, we gradually evolve towards something better.  
    in If the United States of America was supposedly such a wonderful country during its first 150 years, why did Civil Rights have to be both January 7, 2020 4:17 PM MST 2
  • Hi Goaty! :)I understand the need to keep details private.Some p...  moreHi Goaty! :)I understand the need to keep details private.Some people have prejudice towards people who've had to battle with such issues - and that can make the suffering worse.In my case, I'm open about it because I believe it can help fellow sufferers - though I need to complete the last part of the story to show what worked as healing in my case.I'm less open about the seeds, my parents' mutual alcoholism (how they behaved under the influence). A time came when I was able to forgive them because I realised where and how they were wounded and why they could never recover.Love is indeed the most healing force on the planet.And I fully get it why Twinkle was the one to have this effect for you.He had a marvellously healing effect on me too.I need to tell him when I get the chance.It was through his faith in my writing that I gained the courage to go to uni and take it up seriously.He' like an angel, like Barbarella, the way he sprinkles his miracles of love.I am so, so happy that you two have found each ot...    less
    in Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality. January 7, 2020 9:05 AM MST 2
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 7, 2020 9:05 AM MST
  • OK - returning here to continue my answer.So, during that first ...  moreOK - returning here to continue my answer.So, during that first two years on the SSRI, Aropax, my happiness was related to the new ability to notice and savour the simplest pleasures - fresh air, a hot shower, a cup of tea, the flower on a weed in a gutter.In the beginning, the drug had little effect on my sex drive. But as is accumulated in my system, a shift took place. I moved from desire and enthusiasm to just not minding if I had sex or not. Although Ari still did what had always worked before, nothing could turn me on. I did it for Ari's pleasure. Over the two years, my loss of libido slowly increased. Physiological changes made it uncomfortable and I became averse. This was emotionally very painful for Ari who felt rejected and unloved. It says a lot for the depth of friendship that our relationship survived this phase.Ari and I got married at about this time - and the honeymoon was a beautiful sojourn in Daintree National Park, but utterly sexless.One of the best surprises was losing my fear of people. T...    less
    in Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality. January 6, 2020 4:21 PM MST 2
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 6, 2020 4:21 PM MST
  • That freight train sentence is worthy of James Joyce; it's gramm...  moreThat freight train sentence is worthy of James Joyce; it's grammatically perfect.We shorten sentences to make them easier for others to read. It's a cognitive thing. As listeners or readers, most of us have 45-second attention spans. How the parts of a sentence relate to the whole requires holding the phrases and clauses in working memory long enough to grok the full meaning. Brevity keeps us alert. Also, we vary sentence length to make the reading less predictable, the better to hold the reader's attention. Strunk & White's classic, "The Elements of Style," provides advice on how to be concise. (Which, of course, I frequently disobey.)If we all wrote according to the style manual, we would lose the personality in our voices.In our minds, many of us ramble with freight train sentences. I think we are blessed that Livvie has privileged us with a window into her internal workings.  less
    in What's the right way to encourage a badly overweight person to start losing weight? January 6, 2020 3:00 PM MST 1
  • I'm sorry you lost your wife.I think being alone before and afte...  moreI'm sorry you lost your wife.I think being alone before and after marriage is different.Before, one takes solo existence as the norm.After, there's a period of adapting emotionally to not having someone around who knows you almost as well as she knows herself.Close companionship is the biggest loss for people who've had a good marriage.  
    in Did you lose a life partner? Then you know how I feel. My husband of 62 years died on Christmas Day 2019..... January 6, 2020 2:39 PM MST 3
  • Your 2nd statement = fair point. :)
    in When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger. January 6, 2020 2:33 PM MST 3
  • Amen. :)
    in There is only one caste the caste of humanity. There is only one religion the religion of love. There is only one language ..... January 6, 2020 2:30 PM MST 4
  • Haven't been on meds for 8 years.But prior to that, I was on an ...  moreHaven't been on meds for 8 years.But prior to that, I was on an antidepressant (SSRI) for two years the first time, and six years the second.The first time, it took four weeks for the effects to kick in, but when they did it was a revelation.It was suddenly clear that throughout my life, I had rarely been happy, didn't really know what happiness was.Suddenly, even breathing was a pleasure.The effects accumulated over time - leading eventually to a total loss of fear - and that became dangerous.Have to go now, but I'll return tomorrow to finish the post.Love to you, Twinks, dear man, and to Goaty.  less
    in Do your meds make you do crazy things or do they keep you from it? I think I know the answer but I'd love to hear your version of reality. January 6, 2020 2:07 AM MST 3
  • Thanks for the pick, Ele.  :)
    in Chemistry question...What is wrong with this statement? January 6, 2020 1:39 AM MST 2
  • Feeling so sad hearing about his death, remembering how close yo...  moreFeeling so sad hearing about his death, remembering how close you were.I'm sure it will be a huge thing adapting to being on your own.The hardest times can be later, after all the funeral, the paperwork and the condolences have died down.If you ever feel like a chat, please feel free to message me.warmly,Manna  
    in Did you lose a life partner? Then you know how I feel. My husband of 62 years died on Christmas Day 2019..... January 6, 2020 12:57 AM MST 5
  • Wow! I never guessed.Here in Australia, 'spunk' means sperm, and...  moreWow! I never guessed.Here in Australia, 'spunk' means sperm, and 'spunky' means an attractive and sexually active man.So I'd always guessed that your avatar indicated a grey-haired American man who was on the lookout for sex or affairs,or maybe just having a joke about his age.Thank you.I genuinely appreciate it when someone corrects my mistakes.  
    in When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger. January 5, 2020 1:14 PM MST 2
  • You're eloquent in your own way.How you use words perfectly expr...  moreYou're eloquent in your own way.How you use words perfectly expresses you.I wouldn't want it any other way. :)  
    in When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger. January 5, 2020 1:09 PM MST 2
  • Since this question comes from a man who loves to be tricksie......  moreSince this question comes from a man who loves to be tricksie...'Waht' is spelled whatand the 'statement' is not a statement but a question.Treating the question as a question...Had to look up the answer because it's way outside my field.The brief version: not all rare earths are lanthanides.The long version:Scandium and yttrium are not lanthanides because they have some similar but not exactly the same chemical properties. They are rare earths not because they are uncommon, but because they are difficult to get at or isolate.Source info for finding the answer:Definition of  lanthanide  /ˈlanθənʌɪd/ noun








    any of the series of fifteen metallic elements from lanthanum to lutetium in the periodic table (atomic numbers 57–71).








    from Wikipedia -The 17  rare-earth elements are cerium (Ce), dysprosium (Dy), erbium (Er), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), holmium (Ho), lanthanum (La), lutetium (Lu), neodymium (Nd), praseodymium ...    less
    in Chemistry question...What is wrong with this statement? January 5, 2020 1:02 PM MST 5
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 5, 2020 1:02 PM MST
  • I suspect your chances of being able to help are not great, Livv...  moreI suspect your chances of being able to help are not great, Livvie.There is a chance, that because the rest of your cousin's family are not overweight, it might be a medical issue rather than overeating.Possible medical reasons can include:hypothyroidismCushing's diseasetaking steroids (eg for asthma, allergies, inflammatory conditions)water retentionpolycystic ovariesYour cousin might not object to a check-up to discover whether there is a medical condition.At that point, the doctor might be able to say somethingand it may come across as more objective than things the family might say.Attempts at influence from family or friends tend to backfire.They often result in the food-addict feeling an increase of toxic shame and hence eating more to try to drown the distress.If it's is a psychological issue, then it needs a specialist in food disorders - and that could be extremely expensive.Overeaters Anonymous is free. It's a twelve-step program for people with problems related to food including, but not limited ...    less
    in What's the right way to encourage a badly overweight person to start losing weight? January 5, 2020 12:42 PM MST 1
  • I dare say that military experts would understand strategy far b...  moreI dare say that military experts would understand strategy far better than I ever could.But I think the element of surprise is only one tactic in war.Most wars are more like the games of Go, Chess, or Football.Both sides know almost everything about the enemy's position.Both manoeuvre for advantage but can't always achieve it.Both know all the possible moves of the other up to many moves ahead.Both make contingency plans for all eventualities.  
    in Why can’t the media just shut the hell up with PRECISE DETAILS about US military units going overseas in response to threats? January 5, 2020 12:00 PM MST 0
  • Yeah - I know.But you're a friend.I felt like confiding.Apologie...  moreYeah - I know.But you're a friend.I felt like confiding.Apologies.I'll keep it more to the point on the mainboard in future.  
    in When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger. January 5, 2020 11:51 AM MST 2
  • 1. When it triggers distress for the target of the humour.This i...  more1. When it triggers distress for the target of the humour.This includes indirect delivery, such as when the target is not present.For instance, racist jokes encourage and perpetuate disrespect and create a social atmosphere which permits worse abuses to become more likely.2. In situations which demand serious attention, such as in court.Though I can imagine some types of jokes would occur,such as unexpected expressions of the absurd,which wouldn't disturb the general need for gravitas.3. At times of grieving, tragedy or emergency.Exceptions - if such times are painfully prolonged, humour can sometimes act as a leaven to relieve the suffering.It takes a lot of nous and sensitivity to judge this correctly.  less
    in What is a situation wherein it’s inappropriate for someone to display their sense of humor? ~ January 5, 2020 11:37 AM MST 3
  • Hmm. You're probably right.We don't have a bath, unfortunately, ...  moreHmm. You're probably right.We don't have a bath, unfortunately, but I'm sure he would have appreciated a shower, a chance to use the washing machine, and a bed.We don't have a spare bed, or enough space for more than two in our place. It's one of those portable things on wheels with an extension on the front and a roof thrown over the top.But I could have put up a tent for him, and given him a mattress and sheets.Then the question would arise whether I should give him a place for as long as the tent lasted.And whether Ari would agree.He tends to be possessive about his privacy.Your comment reminds me of another episode...
    An unkempt, sunburned guy with a canvas satchel stood on my side of the road with his thumb out. Instinct said he looked harmless enough and I was in the mood for practising unconditional love. I stopped.
    ‘I’m Gus - heading to Eungella,’ he said. 
    ‘Manna,’ I replied. ‘It’s on my way.’
    He climbed into the passenger seat of my van, shut the doo...    less
    in What’s the most recent thing you did to help a stranger? It doesn’t have to be anything big, maybe you picked up a dropped ink pen or waved January 4, 2020 5:39 PM MST 0
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 4, 2020 5:39 PM MST
  • I'm glad you had time to read them. :)I discovered I'd accidenta...  moreI'm glad you had time to read them. :)I discovered I'd accidentally written them into another Mugger's reply window. :/Then couldn't find the right spot to re-post it to you.Ha ha!We'd be like best bosom buddies, or the best of brother-sister, confiding all our daily ups and downs.I think the light of consciousness would flow both ways,the wildflower nectars, seeds, herbal creativities would flow both ways  --and we'd draw Goaty in.We take him out with us in search of great landscape photography shots.Or I might drop you off at great locations where you could camp and he, like an Ansell Adams, could capture the best light.Sponging knowledge - that's easy. The internet is amazing.I had the sense of you being quite young when we first encountered each other. I think you were dancing and landscaping and still not sure of your future direction. Also, I don't think you'd yet found your life partner. It's wonderful that you found him here on the Mug. Wonderful seeing you move through these life changes.I see the ...    less
    in Why can’t the media just shut the hell up with PRECISE DETAILS about US military units going overseas in response to threats? January 4, 2020 5:31 PM MST 0
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 4, 2020 5:31 PM MST
  • In the supermarket last week.A guy ahead of me in the queue had ...  moreIn the supermarket last week.A guy ahead of me in the queue had only a few items of food, but when he reached into his pockets he had only $3.05.I paid the balance.He had a deep tan, was very skinny, and his clothes were filthy.My guess is he was homeless.  
    in What’s the most recent thing you did to help a stranger? It doesn’t have to be anything big, maybe you picked up a dropped ink pen or waved January 4, 2020 5:15 PM MST 2
  • Day to day, the need doesn't arise.Early in 2008, I was catapult...  moreDay to day, the need doesn't arise.Early in 2008, I was catapulted from the back of a young horse on a fire trail in a national park on the day before an endurance ride.I had managed to get up, catch the horse and get back on, though it was hard to breathe.A stranger on another horse happened by, saw how pale I looked, and offered help.She stayed with me until we got back to camp.She organised her son to tend my horse (unsaddle, put him in his yard, give him a feed and drink)and organised another member of her team to take me to the local hospital.The local doctor made a false diagnosis and sent me back with a bunch of pain killers.Four days later I collapsed unconscious.Turned out to be four broken ribs and a punctured lung.As a result of her kindness and my gratitude, we became friends.  less
    in What’s the most recent thing a stranger did to help you out? It doesn’t have to be anything big, maybe he or she offered a few coins at the January 4, 2020 5:07 PM MST 1
  • I found the news report.Amazing! -- going on since the 1940's an...  moreI found the news report.Amazing! -- going on since the 1940's and results reliably replicated by separate organisations.It turns out spiders have neural cells which occupy their cephalothorax, cells which in some species extends into the legs.So all it takes is neural cells for psycho-active drugs to affect perception and behaviour.Maybe some types of intelligence are rooted at a far more primal level than we imagine.I experimented three or four times with some of those drugs many years ago. Don't regret what I learned.But gee, I'm glad I never took up drugs as a lifestyle.  less
    in Scientists in 1990, gave spiders drugs to see what would happen when they built a web. Guess which one was high? January 4, 2020 4:55 PM MST 1
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 4, 2020 4:55 PM MST
  • News reports can't aide or abet the opposition when they are abo...  moreNews reports can't aide or abet the opposition when they are about an event that has already happened.Trump's assassination of the Iranian general was conducted in complete secrecyand the world didn't hear about it until the mission was complete.When the news is reporting that troops are heading over - that too is part of the government's war strategy.They want the enemy to know.The USA is by far the most powerful military country in the world.It can eliminate most of the Iranian population with a single nuclear bomb.Or it can deliver accurate drone strikes to any target. Trump's military advisors will probably be telling him that a weaker power will most likely surrender rather than face annihilation.But in my view, such threats are the tactics of bullies, Mafiosi and colonial imperialists.There were peaceful ways to resolve the original problems. This situation could have been prevented from arising many years ago, back in the late 70's, early 80's,by supporting the Shah of Iran to evolve towards dem...    less
    in Why can’t the media just shut the hell up with PRECISE DETAILS about US military units going overseas in response to threats? January 4, 2020 4:04 PM MST 3
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 4, 2020 4:04 PM MST
  • Maybe.Initially, I didn't think Trump's assassination/murder of ...  moreMaybe.Initially, I didn't think Trump's assassination/murder of the Iranian general had the same set of 'justifications' as the events leading up to Gulf Wars One and Two against Hussein in Iraq.But on second thoughts, there are indeed many parallels.Both countries are high oil producers. Iran can blockade one of the most important routes for oil tankers.Both countries seek to increase their trade with other nations, not necessarily favouring the USA.Both favour one branch of Islam over others, and over other religions. Iran has been cruelly repressive towards any form of religious or secular difference. Demonising these countries is a tactic to make them seem "less than"; it reduces the moral resistance to going over and slaughtering fellow human beings.The same kind of thinking underlies the acts of aggression against both Iran and Iraq (and Vietnam and Korea) - a paranoia that a potential enemy power might have or might be able to create nuclear weapons or other WMPs.In both cases, we can hear the rhetoric of...    less
    in WMD January 4, 2020 3:40 PM MST 0
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 4, 2020 3:40 PM MST
  • It's the media's job to report on what the government does.One, ...  moreIt's the media's job to report on what the government does.One, every citizen has the right to know exactly how their taxes are being spent and why.Two, any action that could take a country to war has a direct impact for men and women in the armed services and their families,and all the workers in ancillary services.Three, the entire world is affected by everything the USA does overseas.NATO and the entire Middle East could easily erupt into a Third World War.This includes my country.If the USA goes to war, Australia will be legally obliged to send it's own fighters and equipment the moment the USA asks because of the ANZUS treaty.  less
    in Why can’t the media just shut the hell up with PRECISE DETAILS about US military units going overseas in response to threats? January 4, 2020 1:33 PM MST 0
  • Maybe.What was your bottom line, Mr Senior?
    in When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger. January 4, 2020 1:20 PM MST 1
  • Prior to Europe I had travelled in South East Asia and the Pacif...  morePrior to Europe I had travelled in South East Asia and the Pacific a little.My last flight was as a passenger, 1982.It was when I returned home after five years abroad studying sculpture:- four and a half months in Paris with Mademoisessle Moquot, an official sculptor for the French government, statues, busts, commemorative plaques and medallions,C19th classical techniques, marquette making, modelling and bas relief- four years BA Hons at St Martin's School of Art, under the wong of London Uni, Abstract Constructivism, wood carving and construction, welding in steelHons thesis researched in the School of Oriental and African Studies- the remainder travelling around art galleries in Europe,inc Spain, Catalonia, Italy, Sicily, Greece, France, Belgium, Holland and Denmark.Much of the time away I didn't enjoy.- Part of it was poverty. England and Northern Europe are miserably wet and cold.- Part of it was strange men in public places. There was not one trip on foot or by Underground train when I wasn't sexually hass...    less
    in When was the last time you flew in an aircraft? Pilot or passennger. January 4, 2020 1:10 PM MST 2
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 4, 2020 1:10 PM MST
  • True. One can't know the mettle of a person unless one lives alo...  moreTrue. One can't know the mettle of a person unless one lives alongside them.So what we really need is far more social mixing.   
    in White light contains all wavelengths of visible color. Black is the absence of visible light. In Physics. What's the point? January 4, 2020 6:54 AM MST 2
  • I've been keeping my eye on the Trumpian news.The latest attack ...  moreI've been keeping my eye on the Trumpian news.The latest attack on Iran - killing their general - bothers me.I think most countries would take such an act as sufficient to provoke full-scale war.I hope wiser heads will prevail.But if the USA and Iran go to war each side will suck in its alliesand the result will be horrific for the world.Trump causes me endless dismay.My dearest wish is that the electoral college would be dismissed by an amendment to the constitution.I don't think the conservatives would let it happen,but I think the USA would have a fairer democracy if the people's vote could not be changed at the electoral college level.  less
    in WHITE FRIGHT is gonna make the GOP extinct. People of color will be the majority. Whites don't have a chance. Do they know? January 4, 2020 6:49 AM MST 0
  • Actually the current Australian fires are totally dwarfed by the...  moreActually the current Australian fires are totally dwarfed by the size of the fires in the Amazon in 1919.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-19/satellite-images-of-amazon-reveals-human-impact-of-fires/11478580https://www.oxfam.ca/emergency/crisis-in-the-amazon/?gclid=CjwKCAiAjMHwBRAVEiwAzdLWGFVTL_nHKPl4OeY1fZcny-xOGZGhttps://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-49433767 - article How Bad Were the Amazon Fires?Even so, Rosie, thank you for caring about our plight over here.It is too big - and sadly this is only the beginning of what is to come.It's not armageddon.It's physics and nature reacting in the only way it can.  less
    in An estimated 480 MILLION mammals, birds and reptiles have died in the Australian wildfires. Has there ever been devastation at this level? January 4, 2020 6:39 AM MST 1
  • We're a bit like spiders.Our feet cling to the Earth so we ...  moreWe're a bit like spiders.Our feet cling to the Earth so we can walk upsidedown with no effort.  
    in Why don't Australians fall off our planet....do they only wear Gum shoes down there....:( January 4, 2020 6:30 AM MST 1
  • There's no public record or evidence to suggest ScoMo plays any ...  moreThere's no public record or evidence to suggest ScoMo plays any musical instrument.He seems far better at sustaining discords than organising notes so they can work in harmony.  
    in Can Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison play the violin? ScoMo fiddles while home burns. January 4, 2020 6:27 AM MST 0
  • I've always loved lateral thinkers. :)
    in Hey Boys and Girls, were you Born to be Wild? This dirty white boy was savage. I was born sideways January 3, 2020 6:58 PM MST 1
  • Deep smiles all the way through me. :) :) :)Thank you, Ele.I hav...  moreDeep smiles all the way through me. :) :) :)Thank you, Ele.I have always believed that inner beauty counts more.When the body starts to decline, what's inside is the only thing we have left.My former avatar was a pic of me at a local cafe back when I was about 53, ten years ago.I wonder at my vanity - why the loss of looks bothers me.It's a creeping and probably irrational fear that somehow I am unacceptable or unattractive to others,not a sexual but a social thing.This photo was taken by a friend of ours last year.You can see a tiny bit of grey creeping in around the temples. Genetic. Mum was barely grey even at 90.I don't mind grey. At least it lets one claim one's years of experience.The lighting flatters - hides the wrinkles.I chopped my hair off yesterday -- a 1-inch crop all over -- want to be comfortable, not have to comb and brush out tangles every day while I'm away on my Vipassana course from the 10th to the 20th this month.  less
    in Do you look older than you are or younger? Or about the same? January 3, 2020 6:26 PM MST 2
    This post was edited by bookworm at January 3, 2020 6:26 PM MST
  • Hatha yoga, a good diet and good sleep achieve that.But one has ...  moreHatha yoga, a good diet and good sleep achieve that.But one has to start young and keep it up.Never too late to start and all of it makes a difference.We could make our lives healthier happier and longer if we started with the gentlest exercises today.  
    in Do you look older than you are or younger? Or about the same? January 3, 2020 6:21 PM MST 0
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  • Unaware

    Posted December 14, 2019

    Unaware   I have loved you a zillion ways, unaware, from infancy to aging days, unaware.   You’re the life-force in a lover’s eyes while he spends his semen making babies, unaware.   I see you in the Corella’s somersault. Your glee, in her screech as she p...

  • Updated - fire storm

    Posted November 12, 2019

    Sat, 4th Jan, 2000To clarify. I am out of danger now. At the beginning of the season, I was surrounded by major fires on three sides (Pacific Ocean on the 4th). The closest were only half an hour away - touch a go - a spark on the wind could have landed here and that would have been enough to put my...

  • A Suite of Three Poems on Weeds

    Posted September 9, 2019

    I wrote these to perform at the Nimbin Performance Poetry World Cup - my first attempt at entering this competition which has a $2,000 first prize.I knew ahead of time that I hadn't a hope of winning. Just as well that was my purpose. My goal was to enjoy the music of the other poets' words and to l...

  • The Day Amrita Stood Against the Axmen

    Posted August 20, 2019

    The Day Amrita Stood Against the Axmen   I’ve found the only cool spot on the knoll under a copse of khejri acacias. Bandhu, our huge black and tan shepherd, pants and watches the goats. He lets me lean against him for a pillow. The nannies chew their cuds while the kids play butty game...

  • Lotus

    Posted August 10, 2019

        My roots suck nutrients  from the rot in the mud.   Water is my world; its skin, my cloak.  I thirst for light.   When young my bud strove to open  in the gloaming of pre-dawn, but shrunk in fear and closed  at the blinding bright zenith ...

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