You can't make this stuff up!
View allAll Photos Tagged BETTERMENT
As 2022 is slowly fading, I choose not to look back and I also choose not to look forward. I've decided to look straight at you, 2023 and welcome you face to face, ready to take on whatever you will throw my way. I welcome all of it. Allow me to harness all of the powerful energy from this Universe and by the Grace of God, I will see you through, 2023.
I'm grateful for everything that I have accomplished and learned from you, 2022, and I'm ready to let you go.
As I close this year, I'm also forever blessed to be surrounded by loved and cherished ones; family and friends.
May you all find your way in the chaos of today's world, your inner-peace and the fulfillment of your dreams. Stand tall and stay strong! Choose kindness, always!
To My Blue Phoenix: You have been my constant. Your love, your energy and your whole being have infused my life and contributed to the betterment of my world. You have enlightened my path, on the darkest of days. You have brought me solace and comfort when I needed it. You reminded me of the goodness in this world. You are one of the most beautiful souls to walk this earth. ISFLY ♥♥.
To really change the world, we have to help people change the way they see things. Global betterment is a mental process, not one that requires huge sums of money or a high level of authority. Change has to be psychological. So if you want to see real change, stay persistent in educating humanity on how similar we all are than different. Don't only strive to be the change you want to see in the world, but also help all those around you see the world through commonalities of the heart so that they would want to change with you. This is how humanity will evolve to become better. This is how you can change the world. The language of the heart is mankind's main common language.
Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem
Thank you for your kind visit. Have a wonderful and beautiful day! ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
The Red Lotus
The hardest friendships are those born in the midst of adversity. The Red Lotus clan and the Sakura Clan were once greatest allies that fought countless wars hand in hand in order to fend off other kingdoms from overtaking their territories. Both lands were rich in nature, fresh produce and animal life.
As the legends speak, an enemy clan disguised themselves as the Red Lotus and destroyed one of Sakura's villages. It caused retaliations and despite multiple pleas from the real Red Lotus clan, the Sakura clan closed its gates forever.
The feud continued for thousands of years till only very few knew of the history of both the clans. However, are the Gods and goddesses tired of this long never ending story? Is that the reason why they somehow brought both heirs to the throne to meet?
There is no such thing as a coincidence, they say. She was out on a mission, disguised as a commoner. No one would realize she was actually part of the upper world. He, on the other hand was riding as a soldier, no colors, no announcements of his true linage and no companions. They crossed paths during a rest stop at the same Inn located in between their territories.
There was injustice in view, some travelers were harassing one of the servers. She interjected, demanding it to end, due to her petite frame, she was not taken so seriously. When the brawl started, she was outnumbered despite trained to defend herself. Lucky for her, he walked in just in time and they fought side by side, just like their ancestors before them.
On discussions about each of their missions, they discovered they were of enemy clans. They should have ended each other then but considering they already fought side by side, it was difficult. A secret friendship was in order. They kept in touch through sneaky letters. They met outside their territories. There was so much discussions about the future of their clans. So much hope for a truce and an alliance once again. Only time was in the way.
She packed the best textiles and herbal tea for him to take back to his family. He would always play a tune for her and bring her the red lotuses from his lands as a symbol of hope for the future and betterment of both their people.
P.S. Been ages since our last photo collab! Between work and timezones. I am so happy to have finally gotten the chance! Thank you Ji, for being the best story teller/ photo planner! He will post his version soon! Check out his stream!
URL: maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Swing%20Island/239/167/27
Happened upon this Mallard hen that was equipped with a solar-powered tracking device. Fox River at De Pere, Wisconsin USA.
I did a bit of homework and believe that the researchers behind this effort are here: www.cohenwildlifelab.com/blog
I had no idea this was a thing.
I am hoping to find out more about the recent whereabouts of this lady duck who is carrying such a burden with great aplomb for the betterment of her kind.
It was a foggy morning along the San Mateo County Coast when I decided to check in on the long abandoned Cascade Ranch. Despite its protected historical status, there is nothing here to suggest any intervention by human hands for the betterment of the ranch buildings and the land. I like it this way. It's an opportunity to observe nature's reclamation process in a moist environment that greatly accelerates the demise of manmade structures. Easy come, easy go.
Happy Fence Friday everyone.
San Mateo County CA
Most Americans are trying to work with other countries as well as here in the United States for the betterment of all people and the protection of the environment.
At least I am.
Wonderful Friday and weekend to you.
What would we do? If it is anything noteworthy, positively life - changing, and for the betterment of people, please start working on it now...
The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds,
through commendable and seemly conduct."
-Baha'u'llah
Now more than ever we need to stand strong for human rights. When our communities are at their most vulnerable that they've ever been in my entire lifetime. At a time when we are so divided, we need to remember that humanity above all is what is at stake and what ultimately matters. We must stand together for the betterment of ALL human beings no matter how they identify or love.
We're not free until we're all free my dudes.
❤️💛💚💙💜
♫ ♬ ♫ ♪ ♩ Janelle Monáe - PYNK
CREDITS
*katat0nik* Toy Collar @ Collabor88
FREE STUFFS >> PRIDE @ HOME
[MR] The Ideal World Hairbase for EVOX Heads
OMY Pride Face Stickers
The people who know me personally are well aware that I pretty much never discuss politics, but frankly things have been seeming to go so badly here recently that I feel I can't keep ignoring it. I would ask anyone who reads this that's living outside of the U.S. to please keep in mind that views of our current president are not representing the entire majority of the population, in fact in my 26 years I have never seen as much resistance as I am these days to Trumps views. I feel it's been so bad for that the first time in my life I almost feel legitimate embarrassment to be from this country (some I'm sure would argue that should've happened many years before now and who knows you're probably right). But anyways, I feel like now more than ever is a time when we ALL need to put our religious, social, and political views aside and come together for the betterment of human kind but also for this beautiful earth itself. We have to change the way we treat each other. We have to join together now before big money, big corporations, and big idiots destroy everything and ruin everything for the entire human race
Excerpt from the plaque:
Convergence (2023) by Hooman Mehdizadehjafari: This artwork, titled “Convergence”, reflects the dynamic synergy of its surrounding community-the heartbeat of the GALA Neighbourhood. In an educational context, Convergence represents the coming together of ideas and expertise from multidisciplinary backgrounds in order to achieve a common goal for the betterment of the larger community.
Choosing to honour the story of their past, wearing proudly the remnants of a city ripe for evolution and growth-resilient even in the toughest of times-community members have asked for an artwork that represents this very spirit that is the fuel that propels them into a bright future. The dynamic form of the piece is a metaphoric testament to the community’s affinity for evolution, a perpetual rippling wave that travels through the ups and downs of life confidently even as it weathers the inevitable.
Convergence offers students/residents a resting and gathering place to ignite conversation, to share memories and ideas, and to learn.
The painter Bonnard said “Make little lies to tell a great truth”.
Use that as your inspiration.
Very rarely am I happy with a photo that is sooc. Each time I adjust one level or do one more adjustment in Lightroom, I am adding one tiny lie, all for the betterment, in my eyes, of my photo. This image is no exception, tweaked and adjusted in Lightroom and them a bit more in Topaz.
Disregard the Exif data. This shot was done with Fuji X-Pro3 plus Helios 44M-7 at F2 plus a 720nm infrared filter. The light source is a 550-2500nm infrared lamp. "What's the point?" is a phrase I have been hearing in my village - usually used by young men. When digging a bit deeper I am hearing more: that their income is minimal with no real chance of betterment, that they are excluded from the "opportunities" and "prospects" promised by the politicians, that having a family would be economically risky for them, that they would never be able to own their home. And, turning to me "oldie" with a pension, that people like me are consuming a major share of the nation's wealth. And what did I say? You are right, young man. When it comes to social equality or, other way round, to social exclusion, this country, the UK, is in a deep mess.
“Let me write about this for a moment, even at the risk of being neurotic about it. It is of course not God’s will that a religious or a priest should spend his life more or less in frustration and defeat over the most important issues that face the Church. But you and I know that, in fact, this is what a lot of people have to face. I have a great deal less reason to complain of it than most. I have been extraordinarily fortunate in chances to speak, much more than one would expect in a Trappist monastery of all places, so that really I have been blessed with special graces. So I should [not] complain. However, at the same time I realize that I am about at the end of some kind of a line. What line? What is the trolley I am probably getting off? The trolley is called a special kind of hope. The streetcar of expectation, of proximately to be fulfilled desire of betterment, of things becoming much more intelligible, of things being set in a new kind of order, and so on. Point one, things are not going to get better. Point two, things are going to get worse. I will not dwell on point two. Point three, I don’t need to be on the trolley car anyway, I don’t belong riding in a trolley. You can call the trolley anything you like, I have got off it. […] I am sick up to the teeth and beyond the teeth, up to the eyes and beyond the eyes, with all forms of projects and expectations and statements and programs and explanations of anything, especially about where we are all going, because where we are all going is where we went a long time ago, over the falls. We are in a new river and we don’t know it.”
-(Letter to Daniel J. Berrigan, August 4, 1964, in “The Hidden Ground of Love”, 83-84)…
This is the processed photo. It has been altered in a number of ways...all to the betterment of the image I believe. The color is both truer and more dramatic. Work was done on sharpness, contrast, saturation, and levels. I believe it is a better image that the one right out of the camera...though that one would do fine.,
Self less individual actions, when aligned with collective well-being, create strong and resilient communities. This was a reference to the bee community. I feel it sums up Andre's soul. A superstar comes to the Golden State Warriors and accepts a role of coming off the bench for the betterment of the team. Not too many all star players would swallow their pride and take on this challenge. I feel grateful for being able to watch this cerebral athlete on the court and wish him the best in all his future endeavors. Truly a class individual!
“The value of a smile is priceless. It can make someone’s day brighter and lift their spirits.”
“The value of love is immeasurable. It has the power to heal, inspire, and transform lives.”
“The true value of wealth is not in its accumulation, but in how it is used to make a positive impact in the world.”
“The value of integrity is the foundation of trust. It is what separates the true leaders from the rest.”
“The true measure of a person’s worth is not their possessions, but the impact they have on the world.”
“The value of education is not in the accumulation of knowledge, but in the ability to apply it for the betterment of society.”
“The value of time is the most precious of all commodities. Once it’s gone, it cannot be regained.”
“The value of honesty cannot be overstated. It builds trust and forms the foundation of all relationships.”
“The value of forgiveness is not only in freeing the other person, but in releasing ourselves from the burden of resentment.”
“The value of friendship lies in the unconditional support, laughter, and love shared between friends.”
“The value of empathy is in its ability to connect us to others on a deeper level and foster understanding.”
Unknown Author/s
Seen on our walk on the Blueberry Run Trail, a rail-to-trail development in Nova Scotia. We saw several very old worn benches, then started seeing ones that had been fixed up. On this one, we saw the sign on it that explained it was a school project! Bravo to the kids, and to the school that helps them contribute to the betterment of their environment!
Superman uses the phone booth to change from the mild mannered Clark Kent to someone more powerful than a locomotive, with a big S on his chest.
I've been faced with some difficult decisions and choices over the past few weeks.
I made terrible choices, horrible mistakes some appear insurmountable or irreversible.
I instantly had regrets for many of my choices yet some choices were out of necessity for my own mental and physical health.
With that I had to make (and I am making) more changes.
Some hurtful , some helpful yet in all cases and with all possible outcomes, I have to make these changes for my betterment.
Hopefully I come out of this phone booth with a cape on my back and the wind beneath my wings.
What I'm Wearing
Outfit
::GB:: Around waist Kimono (NO pants) B / Black @Equal 10
Legal Insanity - Gus old jeans Sig. Gianni @Equal 10
Yasum*Ben*Surfer/Necklace*Silver @Hipsters Monthly
BURLESON Bracelet (R) - Cold Ash
amias - XIMO bronze 1 R - Signature
amias - XIMO silver 3 R - Signature
Hair, beard, tattoos & eyes
.euphoric ~Riri Eyes @Skin Fair 2019
Letis Tattoo :: KING :: MM17007 :: @Skin Fair 2019
Head/Body/Shape
CATWA HEAD Daniel
[Signature] Gianni Body - Body
MXHADES - RIPLEY Shape
*Birth* 'Ripley' Catwa Applier - Tone 03
*Birth* Signature Body Appliers - Tone 03
Location
Is there really true freedom for all?
Over a million black men bake in US prisons-
with sentences far outweighing their crimes.
Many times
the same crime committed by a white man would not even get
him arrested or convicted.
Throw in slavery, institutionalized racism, the 1933-44 holocaust, the colonization of Africa, the prison industrial complex, Aids, Malaria, Sickle cell, i could go on and on and on,
but i ask again
Is the blackman really free?
much has improved
there is a great deal of betterment
but deep seated racism is still rampant
Battery Park
Man Hat Tan
Photography’s new conscience
Excerpt from www.brampton.ca/EN/residents/Recreation/Chinguacousy-Park...:
On February 5, 2020, City Council approved renaming the Chinguacousy Curling Club and Tennis Centre to the Sandra Hames Centre: Curling Club and Tennis Centre in honour of former Wards 7 and 8 Councillor Sandra Hames. Sandra Hames served on Brampton City Council from 1991 to 2014. During this time, she served on many sports committees, such as the Brampton Soccer Advisory Committee, Brampton Cricket Advisory Committee, Brampton Sports Alliance, Brampton Sports Hall of Fame, Chinguacousy Figure Skating and Chinguacousy Club. She was recognized with the Marv White Award by the Chinguacousy Curling Club, which is given to a member who greatly contributes to the betterment of the club and the game of curling both on and off the ice. The Centre originally opened in 1973, with the City of Brampton taking over operations in 1976. The facility houses curling and indoor winter tennis amenities and is home to more than 30 user groups.
While one remembers Jesus, one should celebrate his life as an example of how to love. As one studies his teachings, one learns of a love that is divine in nature and of benefit to all of humanity. The simple truth of “Love one another” places priority upon the betterment of all humankind, by considering all people, as one spiritual family. Jesus taught:
“A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another.” (MSB, John 13:34)
Excerpt from a NY TIMES article January 15, 2006
In 1982, an electrical engineer named Bob Diamond founded an organization called the Brooklyn Historic Railway Association to create a trolley line to connect Red Hook and downtown Brooklyn. Over the next 20 years, the group alternately sputtered and cruised ahead, amassing a devoted crew of volunteers -- Mr. Melnick among them -- significant community interest and more than $200,000 in federal funding. In 1999, Mr. Diamond ran his renovated trolleys along a few hundred feet of track the group had built on the Red Hook waterfront.
But Brooklyn Historic Railway died in 2002 when the city's Department of Transportation withdrew its support, citing financial problems. Greg Castillo, the Historic Railway's construction manager, said he had not heard from Mr. Diamond in years.
Now, the hulking, mint-green steel carcasses of Mr. Diamond's sleek trolley cars, which were first developed for Brooklyn in 1936, sit abandoned and weather-beaten off the end of Van Brunt Street in Red Hook. Eleven other trolleys he had stored in the Brooklyn Navy Yard were hauled away by a salvage company last spring. (2005)
The article goes on to say:
Congresswoman Velázquez obtained another $300,000 last year to study the feasibility of trolley and light-rail service to Red Hook, an idea supported by Robert W. Walsh, the city's commissioner of Small Business Services. With Ikea, Fairway, residential developments and a cruise ship terminal coming to Red Hook, Commissioner Walsh said, ''when this whole issue came up about trolleys, it made sense.''
And trolleys have been mentioned in other contexts. Sandy Balboza, president of the Atlantic Avenue Betterment Association, has called for a trolley loop in Downtown Brooklyn that would travel along Atlantic Avenue, making it easier to reach the growing number of businesses on that street.
And Roy Sloane, former president of the Cobble Hill Association, supports the idea of a trolley running along Atlantic Avenue to Pier 6, where it would connect with ferry service to Manhattan. ''It's the only really innovative transportation idea that's been discussed for Downtown Brooklyn in the last 10 or 15 years,'' Mr. Sloane said.
I'm not sure what the fate of these trolleys will be but for now they are still there behind Fairway. If anybody knows more about these please share the information.
Burnaby Mountain, Burnaby, BC.
I've recently come to understand the amount of time you spend on an edit does not dictate how good that image will ultimately be. Some require more work, some less, but in the end each one will succeed or fail on it's own merits... there's a metaphor for life somewhere in there.
I'm also just beginning to appreciate how much there is I don't know, how much more I need and want to learn, and how much growth I have yet to do. We are at our core an incomplete project, capable of change, growth, and betterment. I've been stalled for a few years, but I'm ready now to resume the trek up the mountain of personal growth.
View from the castle tower to the village of Babice, 30 km west of Kraków.
The Lipowiec castle is situated on a high rocky ridge of Garb Tenczyński, which is to the west of the Kraków Upland. The first fortifications had been raised here probably long before the construction of the castle. On the site of a borough a small wooden castle was built on the initiative of Konrad Mazowiecki.
It became a more significant defensive structure after Bolesław Wstydliwy had come into power and in 1243 had a watch tower protecting state borders built here by the bishop Prandota. As a bishop's property, in 1295 the castle belonged to bishop Jan Muskata. In his times the original foundation was significantly developed. The first brick structures were built, e.g. a tower, which served both as a defensive structure and a prison for people sentenced to death by starvation. They were pulled down into the deep dungeon. Jan Muskata supported Chech duke, Wacław II, who pretended to the Polish Crown. Władysław Łokietek remained in power and the bishop had to shelter in the Lipowiec castle.
Since 1443 the castle was not a residence for the Kraków bishops any more. After Zbigniew Oleśnicki had purchased the Duchy of Siewierz he moved the seat of the bishops to the castle in Siewierz. The Lipowiec castle served as a prison for clergymen. Still one of the bishops was constantly present here as well as priests and military troops.
The castle acquired its present shape after the development in the 15th century. Its small courtyard was surrounded by dwelling houses and an outer castle below encircled by the wall. Another three floors were added to the tower and it has remained like this up to now. Two higher floors were fitted out with shooting positions to keep the entrance to the castle under control.
The entrance to the castle was more than 10 m above the level of the courtyard of the approaches to the castle. The subsequent modernizations the castle underwent did not change its 15th-century look to a considerable degree.
The castle served as a prison up to the late 18th century. It was a well-guarded prison, as only one case of successful escape was recorded. Franciszek Stankar (Francesco Stancaro), an Italian theologian and Hebraist, the author of the project of the Reformation in Poland, was put to the Lipowiec prison for his views. About 1550 he managed to escape from his cell. According to the legend a daughter of the warder helped Franciszek, as she was in love with him. He got down on the ropes she delivered.
In 1655 the Swedish army took over the castle and made it a seat of the governor of Kraków, general Paul Würtz. When they withdrew from Lipowiec two years later, the Swedes burned down the buildings. The reconstruction started in 1732 by bishop Konstanty Szaniawski and was completed in 1754 by bishop Andrzej Załuski.
As a structure devoid of military importance, it became a prison again, but this time a less rigorous one. A house of betterment and retreat organised special seminars here for clergymen imprisoned in Lipowiec.
In 1789 the Austrian troops occupied the castle and it was not a prison any more. During the following sixty years the castle was inhabited constantly, even in spite of the fire in 1800, when the castle got damaged quite badly. The roofs burned down completely along with the ceilings of the highest floor.
The castle stayed inhabited up to the mid-19th century. During the National Uprising in January 1863 the troops of general Marian Langiewicz sheltered in the castle.
Since the conservation works in 1961-1968 the Lipowiec castle has been open, as a permanent ruin, for the public.
Come down here and find perfect tranquillity in the early morning air, cool and fresh with the scent of wild garlic, vibrant with the sunlight filtering through vivid green young leaves and live with the thrill of birdsong.
Away from the finger pointing, blame and accusations. Let's face it, our way of life has caused this pandemic. And even if in sanctimonious righteousness we say we have followed the lock down rules, I suspect so many of us (and that includes me), perhaps unwittingly, have helped spread the virus, or at least have put others at risk on our behalf.
As someone who works in the transport industry I ask, who in lockdown decided to improve the garden, do some DIY, get some games to play with the kids, and buy items for their amusement and 'betterment' whilst stuck at home? All items that are not essential to life.
Who happily let delivery companies make hundreds of millions of extra deliveries that were not essential? Who happily let pickers, packers and drivers go to work and select, pack, handle and deliver whatever unessential item it was that would put a small smile on your face, whilst many sat at home (many on furlough pay, free to do as they wish at home), whilst the transport industry had to work full time, and put their families, and recipients and clients at increased risk of the virus?
There are few (including me) who can claim to not have contributed to the problem, perhaps only in a small way, but nonetheless guilty is guilty.
I'm not interested in the arguments, the accusations, the finger pointing in the media, often aimed at people who are doing their best to solve a problem that none of us has a solution to. Because by our own existence we are all part of the problem and until some people accept that, we are going nowhere.
I'm now going back in my hole.
There was a time when staying at home wasnt such a big deal. People worked their property, and only went into town for necessities and Church.
It seems people have swallowed the marketing of all the sellers of fashion, experience, and activity - and not necessarily for the betterment of society.
This robin chick flew down but didn't want to fly back up. Mom finally flew down and motivated it.
Update: Sorry to say, but the little chick didn't make it. We buried it this afternoon. For the betterment of the rest of our flying friends, I built a bird feeder today.
Photo: Sony NEX-5N + Yashinon 5cm, f2.0
It's a morning ritual: we go our separate ways to walk ~10k/6mi each whilst listening to our respective podcasts (Economics for me, and Life-betterment for her).
We always (in a spooky way) find each other near the end of our walks and get coffee to take to a bench at the beach near our home.
Pic of Chizuko soaking in the awesomeness of where we live whilst we enjoy our morning coffee together.
Auckland, New Zealand
"AE EHL-E-WAFA DARS-E-WAFA KEUN NAHEN DETAY"
The stupid war against terrorism:
This is the stupidest war that I have ever seen.
Michael L. Love Ph.D
01/29/06 02:39 PM
US aggression against so-called terrorists has led predictably to bad results, and we should take all necessary action to stop the war now: It is a stupid, stupid war.
The state of the nation is appalling, but US power is clustered primarily around the centers of wealth (military might, and oil resources) in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere, and the situation is only getting worse. This result is not surprising since the premise of the war was flawed to begin with, and the execution of the war has devolved over the course of the past three years, so that the US is stuck in a sink hole, as it were. We must find a way to end this ridiculous war against terrorism and get the US out of Iraq and Afghanistan now. Stop the war now!
The leader of the US is clearly slow of mind, and the claims in support of the war are dubious at best. The resources that are being spent in the pursuit of al-Qaida are largely wasted because they are probably dead. Most of them died on 9/11 on the airplanes, and no terrorism has been reported since that time. Why are the resources of the US being wasted on this demented pursuit?
A simple review of the our history in Iraq will show the idiocy of our leaders. Despite this fact, that all known terrorists died in airplanes on 9/11, we subjected Iraq to repeated bombings, laid waste to their national infrastructure, starved their children with sanctions, and poisoned their environment with depleted uranium, among other egregious things. Then, after using the UN to emasculate their military, we took our exit from international chambers and viciously preempted, an invasion with an aim to throw down a sitting head of state, conquer cities, ports, and oil fields. We cruelly deprived the people of Iraq of their self-determination, lives, and wealth. After all of this depraved behavior on the part of the US, we expect the people of Iraq to welcome us as "liberators", and lay themselves low before our military power. How can we possibly be such imbeciles!
Clearly, the US has fully lost credibility as the protector of any values or virtues in the world; We should disavow the actions of the nation, end the current administration, and bring the troops home expeditiously. In the execution of this war the US appears as the equivalent of perdition's son and a whited sepulchre, vacuously quoting scripture as they kill proudly. They are full of bloodthirsty torture and murders in the dark; attacking their supposed enemies before they even become a credible threat. Given such a history I fear that the US is past redemption, so that no one should be judged for wishing to dissaciate themselves from the nation and their actions. It had such better potential than this.
Saddam was certainly a bad governor and evil person, but for purposes of US global domination, he was also established, propped up, and deliberately genocide-enabled by the US. When he lost favor with the oilygarchy, it was taken it out on the people of Iraq, in a US instigated downward spiral of misery. Before US intervention, Iraq was a secular modern state and friends of the US, not terrorists. Terrorism was no justification for the war, and in fact the war itself was a very act of terrorism. The US has become what we loathe.
At the outset of the war Mr Bush was a weak president, unsupported by a democratic majority, yet he presumed to lead the US into an unpopular war against the wishes of our closest friends. One might expect him to learn the lessons of history and know better, but instead we are subjected to more and more lies from his weak-minded, frenetic, and untrustworthy administration. He has propped up his power with egregious violations of our constitutional principles, such as the Patriot Act, FISA court violations, secret detentions, deportions, tortures, and killings.
This inane government will certainly retort that, "We are killing the terrorists", and if that were true, then it would destroy this argument. I say, "Show me the terrorists, Mr Bush, if you have killed so many". You have not produced a single one since 9/11. Your failure to combat the real problem is exasperating! Senseless.
It is our duty to express our opposition by taking action against this outrageous, evil, and stupid war. For example, we could plan an anti-war moratorium; a national strike, a stay home against the war protest. Many people are boycotting US corporations or attacking centers of wealth in the US. Practice austerity and boycott food products, technology products, computers, and pharmacuticals especially. Use the web and your prescriptions to get generic medicines abroad. Use free software instead of Microsoft. Sell your car, and buy a bicycle. Use public transportation, and send the money that you save to your favorite organization resisting the war. If you feel strongly against the war, then you should do something about it now, even if the impact is low, because it adds to what others are doing. All of these actions will let people know that it is important to stop the war. It is a statement and demonstration against the war, and if we all do it together, then we can stop the madness of the US and Bush administration. This type of activism works.
Use the "Resist War!" banner on your websites to spread the word against the war. Turn your websites black in protest, and link your sites together, and with ours. If we were joined by many other websites, then it could possibly have a major impact, and turn back from this egregious situation. Hundreds of millions of people now agree that the war is wrong, and that it should be ended. If everyone does everything that we can, then the situation will become even more intolerable, and the US will withdraw.
The truth is that the people of Iraq are defending their homeland against an un-provoked act of aggression. The US has killed many of their brave fighters, but they continue to fight. In their desolation, there are many Iraqis remaining who have welcomed us into their cities, but given our abysmal performance, even such subjugation is seriously in doubt. Despite this abhorrent situation, the war continues, and it is madness to think that the continued presence of the US contributes anything positive to the situation. It is in no way possible that the presence of such a desolator can offer any betterment to the people of Iraq. Still I am advocating for enforced reparations to be paid by the US to Iraq and Afghanistan after withdrawl. The dubious leaders of the US are misusing their armed forces in an egregious way. Bring the troops home now before they are ordered to commit any more barbarities. This will have the added benefit of sparing the people of Iraq any further misery at the hand of the US nation. US out! End the conquest and occupation of Iraq now!
Seen this poor creature on the road! Mange infested, lost most of its hair and wandering aimlessly. He may be a guard dog or Pet once but either escaped or thrown out by the owners.............. Nothing much to do for this animal, other than euthanize!!!!!!!!!!! But Animal activists will catch you if you insist on that, if not done they can spread the disease else where and create havoc. Every creature in this world has an end, just like Me - so some actions are for the betterment for the public and should be followed by any cost!!!!!!!!!! I may sound foolish, but thats life.....
Every year gives us another chance, chance to change, to hope and wish for the better. That betterment will surely come. Wishing you and your family a joyous New Year.
Happy New Year 2010!
A Freemason is a man who, in searching for life’s ineffable questions, finds his way into the company of fellow seekers. Comprised of men from every nation, races, social and economic level, all hold similar ideals and beliefs. The uniting idea is a faith in the divine founded in the certitude in an afterlife. This “belief” is grounded by certain landmark tenants and virtues which ultimately lead in exploration of those invisible questions, leading ultimately to the betterment of all mankind.
www.freemasoninformation.com/masonic-education/freemasonr...
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I've been a Freemason for a little over 2 years and have enjoyed the friendships with the people I've met and the hard work we have done to improve the community (helping children being the foremost push). It is a wonderful fraternity and I recommend it to every man, regardless of race, religion or social economic level.
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This iPhone Background (640x960 wallpaper) is crafted by Patrick Hoesly and is released under a Creative Commons Attribution License.
If you like this image, please leave a comment. Thanks!
How do I get this onto my iPhone?
There are a number of ways to do this, however I think the easiest and fastest way is to download Flickr’s free app. Within the Flickr app you surf over to my photo feed to view the images (if you make me a contact then I’ll appear in the flickr contact list). When you find one you like, just click the download button and save the image directly to your phone. Quick & Simple!
I don’t have an iPhone. Can I still use it on my phone?
As of this writing this image (960 x 640) should be large enough to be used as wallpaper with the Droid / Android, BlackBerry, Windows 7, and iPhone.
How did you make it?
This background was made using graphic design software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Filter Forge, Genetica, Wacom, Alien Skin, Topaz Labs, as well as several other programs.
About Patrick Hoesly
I’m a graphic illustrator, specializing in architectural illustrations and graphic design. I work with Architects, Interior Designers, and Landscape Architects, to help them visualize and sell their designs ...Or in other words... I make the fun/cool images!
Check out my Blog at ZooBoingReview.blogspot.com
Also take a look at my website at www.ZooBoing.com
[22:38] Cam Scorfield nods passively at Laurick, his attention drawn towards the smaller hybrid he had just left in the cell. "Hard at work, yeah?", he queries in an unemotional tone.
[22:39] Laurick Scarbridge's hands were wrapped behind his back as he watched the monitors of the cells. He turned his head to regard Cam, and with a grin on his full lips replied, "Science is never work," then he turned his head to look back at the cells.
[22:41] Cam Scorfield draws a deep breath and swallows, "What'd you do....to the young 'brid if ya don't mind my query..."
[22:42] Laurick Scarbridge turned his head, as his eyes seemed to brighten up when he looked at Cam. He'd hit the right spot. Laurick reached up and tapped at the tip of his nose as he spoke, "I cut his head open. Then using the technology of the base of the excruciator I've been working on, which is magnificent in itself, I rewired him. I think I might have worked a little too hard, well, no, I don't. But! Kwa hoo hoo hoo! Either way. I rewired him. I removed his aggressive circuitry. Little things were wired to fight, that they were!"
[22:44] Cam Scorfield clenches his jaw, grinding his teeth as he speaks, "Yeah...I know alot about that. First hand knowledge, if you get my drift. Knew a guy once, had his head all screwed up...rewired so to speak. People who did it thought they were doing it for the better, you know?", he stops a moment to suppress a cough, "But they were just doing it to control him. That what this is?"
[22:45] Laurick Scarbridge just tapped at the tip of his nose as he leans in, "I'm not doing it for the betterment of anything. There's no point to lie. I hate life. I hate /all/ life. I want it dead. I want it gone. I want it buried. This is just one step to cowtailing creatures like this," he said, tilting his head from side to side. He turned his gaze back to the prison cells, "It's a measure to another measure. That is all. "
[22:47] Cam Scorfield purses his lips, "Kind of a fucked view if you ask me, saying ya hate life. Yer alive, so technically you'd hate yourself...", he squints his good eye, the cybernetic one staring at him intently, "...self destructive."
[22:48] Laurick Scarbridge didn't even look at Cam when he said that, and just laughed, "Kwa hoo hoo hoo!" His point was likely made by that reaction.
[22:51] Cam Scorfield curls his lip, "Know your type well....", he takes a step towards Laurick, tilting his head to the side. "You started with the little one, didn't you?"
[22:52] Laurick Scarbridge turned his head toward Cam with that same grin that was always on his lips. His heterochromic gaze locked onto the cybernetic implant of the crusted soldier, "I started with the most aggressive. There was no particular order. Only as I felt like it."
[22:55] Cam Scorfield 's jaw clenches , "I don't like the way you think, Clyde.", he takes another step forward, "Acting all billy on ruggers, it ain't term in my book. People like you...way you think...make me sick."
[22:57] Laurick Scarbridge just grins all the same as he turned to face Cam, "Oh? Is that so? What makes you think I care what makes you sick and what doesn't? Do you think that will make me sleep less soundly at night? Do you think I am bothered by it? If I cared what you thought, or what they thought, or what anyone would think, do you think that I would do such things? Kwa hoo hoo hoo!" He laughed and shook his head as he tapped at the tip of his nose, still grinning, "Science is the name of the game. Deaths are acceptable. Failures are not. If they die even in success? I still don't care. Either way, I don't care. That I don't."
[23:01] Cam Scorfield 's nostrils flare, "Let me tell you something about science...", he flexes his fingers into fists and back out, showing Laurick his hands, displaying the scarring of his skin, "I know it well. I know death well. Twenty four hours a day for a year I experienced death. I never slept, couldn't. You know what you learn from that? Death isn't special, it's ordinary. Life isn't special. I am incapable of caring one way or another what you think, what you say. I'm not trying to be the big man here, I'm not trying to scare you. But say that shit again, and problem, shiv?", he spits to the side, "I fucking hate scienpricks."
[23:07] Laurick Scarbridge glanced down at the scarring on his hand curiously for a few moments. The red headed Corporal tilted his head from side to side and then looked up when Cam finished speaking. He looked up with that same full lipped grin, "I don't care what you're trying to do. I will continue to do what I do, and you will continue to do what you do." He shook his head, then turned his gaze back toward the cells, "Death isn't special at all. Life isn't special. I agree with you, that I do. It is all the same thing. We're all already dead anyway, so why bother struggling with it? I hate it. I'll make it stop," he said, then looked back to Cam, and tilted his head from side to side once more, "If I can make more realize that this existence isn't worth living, and have them off themselves before I have to, then I've done my job. It's that simple, that it is." He closed his eyes, and then opened them again slowly while he looked at Cam. He never stopped grinning widely. "And all the same, if you'd like to, I'd be more than happy to fix that little problem you have with your hand. I could fix that glitch with your eye. I could fix your skin. I could stop that pain that you feel if you wanted. But, I think you like it. In a way, I think you love it. You know, the way that a warrior would wear his scars? I wear mine as well. I wear my pleasure. This is my pleasure. But, all the same, I could take that away from you. But even then, I could just take your life from you as well. Hm. I don't know," he practically coo'd the last words and tilted his head from side to side. His gaze moved back to the cells. "For now, they still have their's."
[23:11] Cam Scorfield hisses through clenched teeth, "For guy who talks alot you don't listen for shit, Clyde. Kinda bullshit Doc Loire used to tell me....don't talk to me about pain, you don't know about pain.", a high pitched metallic whine shrieks from his mouth as he bites down in anger, grinding his teeth, "Keep it up, bleeder. One thing I know for certain, what goes around comes around, shiv?" He takes a step back, turning towards the door.
[23:14] Laurick Scarbridge just laughed all the same, "Kwa hoo hoo hoo! I wonder, you're right, I don't know pain. But, I wonder, what do you know about the Northern Virginia area in the shattered union of the United States of America, blue eye?"
[23:17] Cam Scorfield stops midstep, "I give about a fuck all, Clyde." He pulls his berret off and rubs the back of his head, "All talk, no trousers. Fucking typical."
[23:20] Laurick Scarbridge laughs once more, then turned his gaze toward Cam, "There's a reason that I am here, blue eye, as I'm sure there's a reason that you're here too. The people in the city are there because they're afraid of dying. The Black Star legion is there because they're pushing against the World Union. The Legion that stays in this city, stays here because they're afraid of dying. Do you ever wonder why the soldiers in Midian are in Midian? I don't. We are there because we aren't afraid to die; we know we're already dead. Look up a small town on the Northern Virginian area, Retz. Look up the 'Massacre of Retz' in the UAC database. You'll see why I'm here, Blue Eye. That you will. Kwa hoo hoo hoo!" He laughed and turned to look back at Fluffy coddling Haku.
[23:21] Cam Scorfield nods slowly, "Should look up Lead Pipe of Truth , Clyde. You'll get to know it soon....assure you.", he pulls the door open and stomps out, puffing his cigar like a freight train.
[23:22] Laurick Scarbridge let Cam have the last word, but he had the last laugh, finding the remark rather humorous, "Kwa hoo hoo hoo!"
A "Grand Musical Evening", a tribute to the popular A.I.R Program VIVIDHBHARATHI on the completion of its golden jubilee.
The program is conducted by "EUPHONY" at N.T.R Hall, Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University, Public Gardens :)
More about Aalambana - care for the uncared:
Started in October 2001, Aalambana(in Telugu means support, nature, guide) works for the betterment of slum and street children.
More about EUPHONY:
EUPHONY is group of music lovers, working towards retaining memories of past music by organizing regular concerts of professional and upcoming music talents.
"Lucem Diffundo (I Spread the Light)"
Palmer's Island LightNew Bedford Harbor, Massachusetts
February 11, 2022 at 9:02PM
The City's Motto is "Lucem Diffundo." This translates precisely as " I Diffuse Light." It can also be interpreted as "I Spread the Light." It has often been incorrectly translated as "I Light the World." The author of the motto remains undiscovered, however, there is a good chance that it was Abraham Howland, the city's first mayor, or one of his circle of friends. It has been widely printed that "Lucem Diffundo" is an allusion to New Bedford's leading role in the whale oil trade. This is certainly a reasonable assumption, however, the motto has at least two other meanings.
"Lucem Diffundo" is a 'personification' of the lighthouse depicted in the center of the seal. The lighthouse is saying to the viewer, "I diffuse Light." Palmer's Island Lighthouse still stands in New Bedford's inner harbor and was restored and re-lighted by the city in 1999 on the light's 150th anniversary. The original seal, first crudely drawn in 1847, depicted only the lighthouse with the motto, "Lucem Diffundens," which translates to "Diffusing Light," or the lighthouse as saying "I am diffusing light." Howland and the new city fathers were predominately Quakers. Followers of the religious teachings of Englishman, George Fox, the Quakers referred to themselves as the "Society of Friends" and "Children of the Light." Their spiritual mission in life was to spread (diffuse) the "Inner Light of Christ" to all they encountered. So here they were, the Children of the Light, employed in the lighting industry, supplying whale oil to the entire world for lighting! In addition, New Bedford held all the federal contracts which supplied whale oil for the young nation's system of lighthouses. Imagine the power and significance of "Lucem Diffundo" to them as they spread spiritual and physical light to all they met. Surely, the Scripture from St. Matthew held great meaning to them: "I am the Light of the World. A city that is set on a hill shall not be hid." Indeed, the biblical references in the seal's design remain to this day.
In the foreground is the Fairhaven shore, with the Acushnet River almost seeming like the River Jordan, with the city set on its hill in the distance, like the promised land. In the harbor is depicted a steamship, representing the future and a whale ship representing the past, with Palmer's Island and its Lighthouse in the center, a spiritual and physical beacon to all who arrived in this world port built by light. Certainly, the Quakers saw their wealth and success as a sign of divine approval.
The spirit of "Lucem Diffundo" lives on today, though less widely known. It is this spirit which keeps its adherents resilient and tenacious in the face of all obstacles for the betterment of this great city by the sea. Source: FOTW Homepage
Palmer Island Light Station is a historic lighthouse in New Bedford Harbor in New Bedford, Massachusetts, USA. The lighthouse was built in 1849 out of stone rubble. It was discontinued when the harbor's hurricane barrier was built in the early 1960s, as its location immediately north of the barrier was no longer an outlying danger and there are lights on either side of the barrier opening.
From 1888 until 1891 it served, with Fairhaven Bridge Light, as a range light to guide vessels past Butler Flats, a rocky shoal on the west side of the entrance channel.
It was added to the National Register of Historic Places as Palmer Island Light Station on March 26, 1980.
As budhists, our prime religious festivel is Vesak. The date is the full moon poya day comes in May. That day and the day after are public holidays in Sri Lanka. The religion is mainly spread in asia. The truth about our lives taught in this teaching is undeniable, even after 2500 years, in this "modern scientific era". The truth it teaches will protect the teaching for many more centuries. It is our responsibility to understand it and act accordingly, for the betterment of our lives.
Thank you all so much for these explores first of all, and for all the support on my last photo. You're all the greatest and and you inspire me so much through your work,with the comments you write, and all of these favorites!! Everyone's support means so much, so thank you seriously so much!! Anyways, oddly enough I feel like I'm starting to come out of this weird photographic rut of mine. It's hard to describe, but once you become tunneled with your work you begin to get very stuck, which is what happened to me. I had this idea of what my "brand" is as an artist and what photography is to me, which made me very narrow minded and in a way kind of left me feeling worthless artistically. I guess my point is not to take things too seriously, and not to view everything as one sided. As artists we may go through phases we don't like as much, but as long as it leads to some form of betterment it's ok. This is getting really long, so I'll stop here, but seriously thank you all!! You're all really great and I've missed being more active in the flickr community!!
Waves crashed rhythmically onto the rocky shore. A mist of cold salt water floated all around filling the lungs of any who were near. Seagulls squawked and called to one another in search of food. Circling, diving, and hovering against the steady winds from the sea. You could hear the faint sound of a dog barking in the distance as Mera and Arthur walked up upon one of the taller cliffs along the shoreline.
Muffled thumps and the grinding sounds of machinery against machinery met their ears as the two caught sight of an oil rig just outside of Amnesty Bay.
"This is what I brought you here to see, Arthur. How dare they pollute our waters! Who gives them the right?!"
"Calm yourself Mera. Our oceans are vast. Can we not share the resources?"
"Sharing or not, that's our home they're defiling! Do you not hear of the casualties that come from their pollution?!"
"It is their own mistakes that cause such incidents"
"Our people are losing their homes, choked out by the Surface Dwellers 'mistakes' and you're contempt with that?"
"I am not keen to their methods, but we must respect one another's society. The only way for peace is to provide it."
"They don't deserve our kindness"
"All life deserves kindness. Even those you may not agree with."
"But our homes!"
"The humans are tying their best to utilize this planet. I've come to understand that they too find this way of life is harmful to all of us."
"But yet they do nothing?!"
"They are trying, to their betterment. Give them patience. Surface Politics are slower than even that of The Atlantis' High Council."
"And in the mean time, we must show them the error in their ways!"
"Not with violence Mera, with patience and respect"
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Here's a quick (dialogue heavy) story written around a build and a new figure :)
Shout out to Rob for hooking me up with Mera! It's a shame he's moving on to other things, but I hope I can give his figs a good home :)
Patreon has about 18 different photos posted, with everything from how I accomplished the Forced Perspective/focused images of the builds, plus the lighting set-ups to the preview image, and a whole bunch of other past and upcoming projects in the works :)
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Do you ever wonder why Aquaman wasn't a supervillan? It's because he'd feel gill-ty! Get it?! Beacuse he's a fish guy! (please laugh) Patreon has better jokes, I promise! The page has early photography, behind the scenes images, and WIPs of upcoming projects! :)
PLEASE, NO invitations or self promotions, THEY WILL BE DELETED. My photos are FREE to use, just give me credit and it would be nice if you let me know, thanks.
Harbour of the community Escuminac. Located on the south shore of Miramichi Bay, New Brunswick
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USA: Wake up, the USA is already in the middle of a civil war - Republicans VS Democrats and the Republicans are winning (with the help of 2 Democrats and their lobby groups), the USA will no longer be a democratic country after 2022 elections. Republicans are not working for the betterment of the people, it is all about power and money. Super Pacs have no place in a Democratic state, it is only a means for the rich people to control the government.
Democracy is about trying to get 100% of the people to vote, not to limit the right to vote - especially based on lies.
Thank God I am a Canadian....
The Lipowiec castle is situated on a high rocky ridge of Garb Tenczyński, which is to the west of the Kraków Upland. The first fortifications had been raised here probably long before the construction of the castle. On the site of a borough a small wooden castle was built on the initiative of Konrad Mazowiecki.
It became a more significant defensive structure after Bolesław Wstydliwy had come into power and in 1243 had a watch tower protecting state borders built here by the bishop Prandota. As a bishop's property, in 1295 the castle belonged to bishop Jan Muskata. In his times the original foundation was significantly developed. The first brick structures were built, e.g. a tower, which served both as a defensive structure and a prison for people sentenced to death by starvation. They were pulled down into the deep dungeon. Jan Muskata supported Chech duke, Wacław II, who pretended to the Polish Crown. Władysław Łokietek remained in power and the bishop had to shelter in the Lipowiec castle.
Since 1443 the castle was not a residence for the Kraków bishops any more. After Zbigniew Oleśnicki had purchased the Duchy of Siewierz he moved the seat of the bishops to the castle in Siewierz. The Lipowiec castle served as a prison for clergymen. Still one of the bishops was constantly present here as well as priests and military troops.
The castle acquired its present shape after the development in the 15th century. Its small courtyard was surrounded by dwelling houses and an outer castle below encircled by the wall. Another three floors were added to the tower and it has remained like this up to now. Two higher floors were fitted out with shooting positions to keep the entrance to the castle under control.
The entrance to the castle was more than 10 m above the level of the courtyard of the approaches to the castle. The subsequent modernizations the castle underwent did not change its 15th-century look to a considerable degree.
The castle served as a prison up to the late 18th century. It was a well-guarded prison, as only one case of successful escape was recorded. Franciszek Stankar (Francesco Stancaro), an Italian theologian and Hebraist, the author of the project of the Reformation in Poland, was put to the Lipowiec prison for his views. About 1550 he managed to escape from his cell. According to the legend a daughter of the warder helped Franciszek, as she was in love with him. He got down on the ropes she delivered.
In 1655 the Swedish army took over the castle and made it a seat of the governor of Kraków, general Paul Würtz. When they withdrew from Lipowiec two years later, the Swedes burned down the buildings. The reconstruction started in 1732 by bishop Konstanty Szaniawski and was completed in 1754 by bishop Andrzej Załuski.
As a structure devoid of military importance, it became a prison again, but this time a less rigorous one. A house of betterment and retreat organised special seminars here for clergymen imprisoned in Lipowiec.
In 1789 the Austrian troops occupied the castle and it was not a prison any more. During the following sixty years the castle was inhabited constantly, even in spite of the fire in 1800, when the castle got damaged quite badly. The roofs burned down completely along with the ceilings of the highest floor.
The castle stayed inhabited up to the mid-19th century. During the National Uprising in January 1863 the troops of general Marian Langiewicz sheltered in the castle.
Since the conservation works in 1961-1968 the Lipowiec castle has been open, as a permanent ruin, for the public.
Starting a DND campaign soon and decided to build my character! Challenged myself to do this one rather quickly.
Deep in the forests of Aglarond, a young forest gnome dreamed of becoming a wizard. He had a natural talant for spellcasting, but lived in a rural land with no access to teachings, texts, or spellbooks. Due to this, he turned his talant to the natural world that surrounded him.
At 102, he finally has a chance to use his skills with an adventure through Icewind Dale. His main ideal is self-improvement; the goal of a life of study is the betterment of one's self.
Mavis Henslow was a woman of exceptional lineage, descended from a long line of noteworthy individuals. Her 25th great-great grandfather was none other than the renowned English theatre proprietor and manager of the Elizabethan Age, Philip Henslowe. Such a heritage bestowed upon Mavis a connection to the arts and the power of expression.
Despite her impressive lineage, Mavis faced societal limitations as a woman in her time. Born into an era when gender roles were rigidly defined, she encountered numerous obstacles that restricted her aspirations. However, Mavis possessed an unwavering spirit that refused to be stifled by these constraints.
Mavis received her education from a dedicated governess who recognised her thirst for knowledge and the innate intelligence that resided within her. Through the governess's guidance, Mavis embarked on a journey of learning and self-discovery, delving into various subjects that ignited her curiosity.
As Mavis grew older, she discovered her gift for healing and became fascinated by spiritualism. Her studies and experiences led her to develop profound abilities in these realms, transcending the boundaries of traditional understanding. Mavis could perceive energies, offer solace to those in pain, and provide comfort to the spiritually seeking.
With her remarkable abilities, Mavis had the potential to become a world-renowned figure in the field of healing and spiritualism. Yet, she chose a different path, one that was characterised by privacy and humility. Mavis shunned the allure of fame and the accompanying public adulation, preferring instead to focus on her purpose, helping others without seeking personal acclaim.
Throughout her life, Mavis dedicated herself to aiding those in need, utilising her healing talents and spiritual insights to bring solace and enlightenment to countless individuals. Her gentle demeanour, compassionate nature, and profound wisdom made her a cherished figure within her community.
While Mavis's contributions to the world may not have garnered global recognition, the lives she touched, the souls she healed, and the minds she inspired were immeasurable. She left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Mavis's extraordinary journey serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and selflessness. Despite the limitations placed upon her by society, she overcame obstacles and harnessed her unique gifts for the betterment of others. Mavis, an extraordinary woman, showed the world that true greatness lies not in fame or accolades but in the profound impact one has on the lives of those around them.
[A portrait of Mavis Henslow as a young girl, who was my mentor, my teacher and loving friend.]
for Flickriver - Sophie Shapiro
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I've used the Annual Balloon Fiesta as my training ground - for learning Camera usage ! as well the training of clouds, the space they fly in, most frequent Question ? do they ever bump into each other, for this to answer ! infrequently, considering they use the same wind speed ! also they out pace one another in rising as well descending the greatest is the launch crews, being the judge of the space available ! so I do miss Fiesta, last visit 2019, due to the Covid period so the attraction goes back to 1988! back then there was no Balloon Fiesta Park, and the discipline was use what launch place available ! as for my concern, on a most frequent, exposure, My delight is a local city park in Taylor Ranch, less than two blocks away ! from my home location, a rough guesstimate , 8 or a dozen, an a daily basis, Kind of a daily start of day and retired ! Enjoy the View ! Yes I'm spoiled ! for betterment I share the moments !