http://journals.copperstrings.com/RSSFeed.aspxJournals for latest postsAttribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/http://journals.copperstrings.com/Images/logo.gifhttp://journals.copperstrings.com/RSSFeed.aspxSoulSoilSocietyWed, 07 Jan 2009 02:21:38 GMTHero,Peacenik, Super-economist   There is inspiration is theconquest by Sean Lemass of economic conditions much worse than today's economic crisis when his policies more than trebled Ireland's wealth and opened a new avenue to peace,giving rise to: THE CENTURY'S GREATEST SUCCESS STORY IN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.  The rise in  Ireland's per capita GDP from 1/3 of the USA level in 1934 when he was elected as economic minister, to 1 and 1/6th  [of the USA] derived directly from his policies. His policies more than trebled his peoples wealth. THE CENTURY'S DEMOCRATIC LEADER LONGEST IN OFFICE.  Only dictators held office for longer.  He was elected 10 times to 28 years of effective control over the Irish economy.  This was longer than any democratic leader with equivalent position or power, not just in the 20th century but for all time and was probably the world's longest significant democratic record.  There was resistance all the way but his poker-player-shielded, odds-calculator brain unemotionally tested whether, in the ultimate, he had a voting majority and carried on.  Many times his fate hung in the balance even in his own party.   His philosophy of economics was that the rules aremutable changing according to the situation and that they derive from the meshof the entity and the environment.   His great characteristic wasacceptance of reality and 'with prejudice' was his north pole, meaning that heknew his views might be wrong but while they were his views, he hewed the paththey dictated without fear or hesitation.  He was single minded andfocused but very open to new evidence.  This man of contrasts  was aliberal moderate with the stamp of the onetime weapons trainer who developed anupper lip so stiff as to face down John Bull.  Time Magazine's front coverin '69 showed Lemass  dragging Ireland, "kicking and screaming,"into the 20th century'. THE MENTALITY OF A SUICIDE BOMBER.  But his career began as a so-called terrorist.  Lemass then, by his own earlier account, had the mentality of a suicide bomber . At age 15 ½, hugely outnumbered after continuous fire fights with attacking British soldiers, he faced inevitable capture and under a draconian martial law almost certain death by execution. This boy chose to risk everything for a feeling of pride in fighting for an Ireland free of invading forces. At age 21, Lemass was among a group of 100 Irish fighters who killed 16 enemy agents in one night, the major event in the Irish war of independence that brought about the first liberation defeat of the British Empire. More killing attended his 22nd year, when he suffered the loss of his closest ally, his brother, brutally beaten and shot. FROM FAITHFUL BELIEVER TO THOUGHTFUL PHILOSOPHER.   What is a revolutionary? Sean Lemass was a man in love with Ireland and its people and he wanted nothing more from his life. This is the story of a revolution that turns a carefree boy into a reserved man, a radical into a moderate and a faithful believer into a thoughtful philosopher who has left his message for posterity. At age 33 he became Minister, with control over Ireland's economy which he lost twice but exercised during 28 years in government. FEW MEN HAVE STRIVEN HARDER TO LOOK LIKE A 'SUIT'.  The intensity of the early overwhelming hurricane of unbearable excitement, desperate stress and violence savaged his youthful feelings.  Like Puccini's Madame Butterfly, he learned to 'hold himself quietly concealed,' to hide and repress his emotions 'so as not to die.'  With tight control of his emotional life came a formal bureaucratic style.  He never said much and never ever appealed to anyone's ideals or good nature. He became a prosaic man and managed to make the huge excitement you knew was in his life seem mundane. Of himself, Lemass said that he was not exciting as a speaker and could not connect so as to arouse people.  He adopted a urgent busy 'no nonsense' persona which was reinforced by command at an early age and the necessity that older men should accept his directions.  Even when, interviewing him, I said, 'you admit that Neil Blaney was a crook', why did you keep him in the cabinet', and he answered, 'how would you know what the crooks in the country were doing, if you didn't have a crook in the cabinet', he showed no emotion, no emotion either ever through 48 hours of interviews!  Few men have striven harder to look like a 'suit'. VISONARY.  But under the protective exterior was a was a visionary leader who, flying in the face of his republican movement's 44 years of bitter antagonism and deep rooted hostility to British rule over part of Ireland, held out the hand of friendship. It was typical that, unannounced up to the last minute, even to his cabinet, in quite nonchalant low key, he entered the until then, forbidden territory.  His historic recognition of Northern Ireland prompted a thought process in both Britain and Ireland which lead to the essential requirement, contribution to and participation by his successor governments, for a successful peace process.  With the new Britain that replaced the previously hated and exhausted Empire, he opened floodgates of compromise that begot, for the first time in 460 years, an Ireland at peace, and what is more, the present support there of human rights and a just society, albeit at the sacrifice of an Irish province to shared sovereignty.   AN IMPERSONAL AND REMOTE LOVER.  Lemass paid a high price for the disiplining his emotions and the self control that made him great. He had difficulty in making emotional connections with people and so the people of Ireland found him an impersonal and remote lover.  He could never have unbent to make the agonised appeal to the Argentine people, "Don't keep your distance," attributed in the musical, 'Evita,' to the dying Eva Peron.  Throughout their affair, Lemass was never able to engage with Ireland or Irish people in any way other than through his policies and his intellect. The Irish people responded in kind, meaning that now, almost forty years after his death, his story still has not been told.  His autobiography is that of a man in love, unable to make love or show love, only able to profess love through Stakanovite work for economic improvement.  His emotional inarticulateness hid the depths of his intrinsic Irishness.  A true son of an island people he shared our innate kindness and our prejudices.  He accepted traditional Catholic authoritarianism, was mildly racist, slightly  anti-feminist. He brusquely dismissed the entire thought of Bertrand Russel because he masturbated when fourteen years old, an attitude very different from the rejection of the Catholic Church by the educated opulent Ireland he created.  HIS FAMILY LIFE.  In one sense, his political devotion was the tragedy of his life. His family lost out in the distant professional persona he adopted.  The full warmth of family life eluded him. In moments of openness he gave me glimpses of his perplexed perception of women.  He was a gentleman to his finger tips but he had no feel for how women go about things.  Because they often do not follow the inexorable straight line logic so deeply embedded in him, they seemed to him to be a limited mentally.  He was even ready to poke kindly fun at his wife if she forgot something or committed a tiny faux pas I would not have noticed. He would talk of women’s supposed illogicality at length obviously subconsciously hoping that someone would say something that would help him make sense of this perplexing but important question.  I never did.  You do not teach the master.  He gave a little too much devotion to his country at the cost of some separateness and loneliness as the years advanced.  HIS STORY IS AN EXAMPLE AND A CALL TO THE WESTERN WORLD.  The people of Ireland respect the man's legacy, but now it is time for his work and his discoveries to be shared to add light to human relationships and moral values for our time.  Lemass gave his life to make Ireland strong. How can his investment be of value to the rest of the world, so clearly in need of unconditional love.  In his story lies reprieve for a world doomed by inequality to continuous insecurity and war. This turnaround of an underdeveloped country to riches was in less than a lifetime.  His policies built a nation seen today as an earthly paradise by other countries, underdeveloped in 1937, and still poverty stricken.  His selfless lead make his autobiography and example and a call to the Western World to cease withholding from the Agricultural 3rd World Countries the access to trade justice and the opportunity to implement his development policies which Ireland has had. The media celebrate the 12 million new millionaires he system produced last year but do not tell that t 12 million new deaths by starvation.  Relief of a feeling of ill at ease, the vague angst due to latent awareness of the injustice of our World order, and access to equanimity, would lie in following Lemass' lead as a light for the world.    Dermot Ryan ©CopyrightDermot Ryanhttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Hero%2c_Peacenik%2c_Super-economist__-_Sean_Lemass&ArticleID=1681http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Hero%2c_Peacenik%2c_Super-economist__-_Sean_Lemass&ArticleID=1681#commentsWed, 07 Jan 2009 02:00:16 GMTWRITTEN DEC '08, PUBLISHED JAN '09  A Solution for Humanities Problems [You don't need to read this -- it will pan out this way anyhow -- Just watch it happen for the rest of your life] As so often, the solution is staring us in the face.  It is Universal Land Development for bio-fuel with Carbon Capture and Storage - the development of the vast under-utilized stretches that lie beyond our horizons.   This is the solution for Oil exhaustion, climate collapse and terrorist threat, even ultimately nuclear terrorist threats not for under cultivation.   Bio fuel production with negative emissions needs only the abundant supply of reources and land and labour are in such surplus that they are valued at 0.  See Financial Times 21and 22.11.2008 for an area of arable land greater than England given free for 99 year by the Madascar Government and Cambodian Government Minister Suaos Yara saying that half their land available for agriculture is not under cultivation.    All that is needed is that the pump be primed.   I propose a radical rethink for the underdeveloped countries, a 2nd Marshall plan, a policy no more radical or costly than  Roosevelt's in his time.  America then created a powerhouse consumer for her goods which thrust her economy upward to pre-eminence.  this requires a third change, this time in our hearts and minds.I propose that we give farmers across the world the same subsidy as we give our own., Vast tracts of land are presently unused or under producing.  We could create an economic engine harnessed to pulling us out of recession, significantly stemming climate change, creating vast new sources of renewable energy and reflecting the Obama's battle cry of 'hope'. Presently we lower the world price of food to half the natural economic price by spending £350 billion annually subsidising Western farmers and  starve 40,000 Third World farmers to death daily.  In one policy, as enlightened as electing Obama, we could deal effectively with the reality of all that threatens us. They have land and labour. we have the power of capital.  It is not impossible– It would only cost 2% of our standard of living.  Instead of a constant drag on the West these countries would create unprecedented demand for our industries.  With Europe contributing equally to America the Marshall equivalent would total in to-day's money 2,600$ billion and it would cost less than that.. Without fundamental change the world as we know it will end.  Oil scarcity has demonstrated in the current year its stark inelasticity of demand, tripling in response to a small scarcity, then plunging in 4 months by two thirds before a minor fall in demand. Already the exhaustion of the world's exhausted oil fields mean we face a horrendous 6% declining trend in oil production and the inevitable day of oil at 1000$ a barrel. If we do not change we face the seas washing in to cover hundreds of square miles in California and Bangladesh and the majority of the capitals built at the mouth of rivers on low lying land. By extending the existing sytem of subsidies, such a transfer of financial resources direct to the pesant farmer in Africa, Asia and South America could stop the galloping forest devastation resultant on desperate poverty and gain a 10 times increase in the acreage for vital bio fuels. These presently contribute 3% to World energy use. An increase from 3% to 30% plus ongoing growth would stunt the oil threat. We weaken and emasculate the salt of the earth, the billions of peasant farmers, so that they are desperately and barely clinging on to existence.  Under Marshall 2 they would be claiming the rights of democracy.  At first glance a 3rd World starvation death rate, substantially greater than  the death rate during the 2nd world war, even if forecast to double, seems irrelevant. That is because we have not asked from where are the numbers, according to the Bush administration, veritable hordes, of terrorist supporters growing from?  What are the billion people across the world who have been bereaved by starvation thinking?  Could 10 pence from each finance a nuclear bomb.   CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE could actually diminish the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere but at great cost.  The enormous land resource my plan would release could meet that cost.  There is a reason for the emotional malaise in the Western world. Our psychology when we strove with such extreme unrealistic fervour for more and more wealth that we 'overleaped and fell on the other,' into the sub-prime disaster is one of subconscious anxiety. If we allowed reality to enter our consciousness, awareness that we are enforcing trade rules that kill so many would be less disturbing than the neurotic need to avoid that knowledge for fear the realisation would be unendurable.  The Marshall Plan gave America a just sense of rightousness that led to her present greatness. The fatal fantasy of the Bush administration's policy aimed at extreme military supremacy, 'Full Spectrum Dominance,' was an escapist dream of a hard core of neo-conservatives , first declared explicitly in a letter to president Clinton signed by Rumsfeld Cheney and others. A nightmare for the entire world ended with Obama but the legacy is dire. We need more than a leap of faith, we need a dream of the triumph of reason. 1000 farmers committed suicide last month in India because they became so destitute that they could not endure human existence. The exhaustion of the oil in the ground, the ozone in the air or the patience in our fellow men, could make our fate worse than theirs.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=A_Solution_for_Humanities_Problems&ArticleID=1680http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=A_Solution_for_Humanities_Problems&ArticleID=1680#commentsSun, 04 Jan 2009 17:19:22 GMTScience is generated by and devoted to free enquiry: The idea that any hypothesis, no matter how strange, deserves to be considered on its own merits. The suppression of uncomfortable ideas may be common in religion and politics, but it is not the path to knowledge; it has no place in the endeavour of science. We do not know in advance who will discover fundamental new insights. Carl Sagan, Cosmos, 1981 Carl Munson recently questioned the worth of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) project at CERN in a CopperStrings journal. That post got me thinking about science, particularly the esoteric fringes of science, and its worth. One of the most valuable aspects of our intellectual culture, embodied in science, is the freedom to explore the workings of the universe without limit. It is often difficult to see the practical, immediate and mundane benefits of experiments, or even entire branches of science. Often the benefits of an avenue of research only develop much later, but I believe that the increase of our collective knowledge is in itself a valuable and lofty goal. Science has suffered greatly over the last 50 years or so by being increasingly tied to the short-term selfish goals of commerce. University funding for science has plummeted and the constant pressure to publish papers herds great minds towards easily gained goals that can be fluffed up and spun by PR departments into fast-food science. This hurts us all whether we are interested in science or not. Projects like CERN are precious. They are vital to our continuing intellectual evolution as well as expressions of practical engineering brilliance. Increasing our knowledge of the sub-atomic world could provide us with extraordinary advances in many fields. There can be broader unforeseen benefits of grand projects too. The internet was formulated at CERN. There is great potential in collecting many clever people together. Not all advances happen in the lab. Some happen in the corridors or the canteen. We seem to lack the vision to create nexuses of knowledge such as the Great Library of Alexandria and in the absence of such projects we should cherish projects like CERN. We need intellectual forward momentum to develop as a species. Without evolution we will become extinct and we can't rely on the Swiss Patent Office to keep nurturing geniuses for us.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Science_Matters&ArticleID=1672http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Science_Matters&ArticleID=1672#commentsThu, 01 Jan 2009 07:30:45 GMTI want to wish everyone on Copperstrings and it's sister sites a Happy New Year!  I wish you luck, peace,  riches and great love. My goal for the new year is to work on my second book. :) What is yours? Your Truly, Cynthia Y.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Happy_New_Year!_2009_here_we_come&ArticleID=1657http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Happy_New_Year!_2009_here_we_come&ArticleID=1657#commentsWed, 31 Dec 2008 19:05:38 GMTI have just discovered that a dear friend has died. His name was Geoff Benson and he was a mentor, guide and a true, unconditionally loving pal. We first met, around 13 years ago, in Ilkley, the West Yorkshire town, where I believe he grew up, and where I think it’s fair to say, he caused the most ‘trouble’! From what I can piece together, mainly from Geoff’s confessional tales of his fascinating past, was that – to the world – he was a maverick, madman and mischief-maker; albeit to me – forever an inspiration, prophet and kindred spirit. Perhaps, unsurprisingly then, it was at a mind-body-spirit fair that we first came into contact with each other. Geoff was there, straight-talking and bold, with his unusual stall combining his gift of astro-numerology, his love of permaculture and a wish to regenerate local communities with skill-sharing, alternative currencies (he wanted us to trade smiles) and the proposition of folks living and loving together, in peace and harmony. I can’t remember exactly what I was doing there, though I’m sure it had some connection with Unstone Grange – a residential retreat centre – where Geoff later ended up. We hit it off for sure, Geoff making an immediate impact on me like a ‘holistic Geoffrey Boycot’, I thought, with his compelling blend of empathy, insight and intuition crammed awkwardly into the body of a 50-something, call-a-spade-a-spade Yorkshireman. Days later, he was living in a caravan behind a shop of another friend he made that day, 50-ish miles away in Sheffield. Together, we were creating the ‘Vibes! Shop’, a daring hybrid of the magazine I ran (Vibes! – Sheffield’s guide to Positive Living) and the ideals that Geoff held dear around re-thinking the ridiculous way we live. We served porridge and homemade soup to the community and endeavoured to network and promote a new way of living and working, based around people doing what they were good at and what they loved doing. We wanted to take the emphasis away from cash and consumerism. How stupid was that?! Geoff was no stranger to retail. As I recall, he was an early Sunday Trading rebel and created one of the UK’s first DIY/garden centres in West Yorkshire – Homescape, whose name he thought was prophetic when after a manic, fired-up and visionary Sagittarian episode or two, he ended up in a mental hospital. That part of his life became the most poignant for me, in Geoff’s retelling.By his account, he was part McMurphy (from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest) and part ‘Prot’ (from the movie K-Pax) – all in all, a mystical revolutionary in this turbulent, yet enlightening phase of his life where he learned to forgive his jailors and betrayers by understanding them through a god-given, and as far as I can see, unique combination of numerology, astrology and physiology. It was around this time too that he learnt how to breathe properly (to the point of mystical revelation) whilst working in a greenhouse. And removed from ‘normality’ and stripped of basic rights, I believe he fled the asylum in pyjamas hoping to at least be arrested and thereby regaining some official ground for argument and re-entry into the regular world. A hand-made, divinely-inspired board-game emerged too, where the former reality of Homescape, revealed itself as Hom-escape (as in man’s escape), a learn-as-you-play adventure, that I think I’m right in saying, combined a far-sighted understanding of our ecological, economic and social predicament and what we should do about it. Needless to say, the Sheffield shop didn’t work out commercially (what were we thinking?!) and Geoff de-camped to Derbyshire, to Unstone Grange, where his and our adventures continued. We walked the streets broomsticks in hand – “cleaning up the crap” as Geoff put it, making friends and worrying passers-by. He was ever ready to ask people about their birth date and then give them an often-stunning insight into their personality, inclinations and blockages. He delighted the open-minded and frightened the narrow-minded to death. I feel that Geoff really understood me – the sort of spiritually aware elder influence we all need; at least those of us, like Geoff, who knew the world was/is crazy – not us. He had to learn that the hard way it seems. And through the ‘slings and arrows’, making it easier for younger folk like me - now literally in his wake - to trust our intuition for a better world and our suspicion of the old order with its unsustainable values of greed, competition and selfishness. To me, he was a numinous rock, an intangible touchstone (paradox intended) in tough times and an absolute laugh and delight in the good times that I so fondly remember. And he was a maniac. The truth is, I couldn’t take too much of his penetrating fire, being – as he told me himself – so watery in my etheric constitution. We knew that. But this furnace of a man warmed me up, kept me warm and even in passing, still warms me, when I think of him. Geoff Benson is everywhere now and what he believed so deeply and spoke of so passionately is needed more than ever. He saw the credit crunch coming long ago, but more than that knew it was part of the planet’s own dying process; a process that we can heal, if we only remember Geoff’s legacy. He wanted us to live well, love each other, be happy and breathe out, such that we could oxygenate and revive the moon if we so chose. I’m up for it. I feel your unbounded love now Geoff and I gladly accept your baton in the hope that together we can change this ‘crackers’ world. You showed me how when you were here; show me from where you are now. I’m still listening. Only your body has died.  A detailed explanation of Geoff's astro-numerology system Geoff and I talking earlier this year Unstone Grangehttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Remembering_Geoff_Benson...&ArticleID=1656http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Remembering_Geoff_Benson...&ArticleID=1656#commentsWed, 31 Dec 2008 16:40:40 GMTIn May 2008, an irate reader wrote on the discussion pages of the Hair Color that the article did not provide her adequate information on organic or natural hair color. Even as we addressed her concern, we realised that many of our other articles might be suffering from the same problem. By then we had over 1000 articles, some of which were very long. The problem arose again when we needed to explain the kind of articles we were looking for to contributors. Some contributors asked us what a CopperWiki article should include.  As we tried to convey, we fumbled with words or in my case used too many words to explain, until both the person who was hearing me and I myself looked slightly ill at ease. Something needed to be done but what! Meanwhile, by the second week of August 2008, we were getting over 1000 visitors a day. Time was running out. We now had two parallel CopperWiki communities - the writers and the readers. The solution should address the needs of both. We realized we needed a framework which balanced the ease of contribution while ensuring the articles were of lasting value. The CopperWiki Article Framework was born. When I first saw the finished form I had some reservations. Would  a person writing from the heart find the framework constraining? However, it was very simple.  There were seven primary subheadings.  What's it all about? (Keyword introduction, definition/ short history ? etc) Who should be bothered? Why should i be bothered?  How does it affect me/my family/my society/my country?  How does it affect the environment? What can I do about it? (My choices based on where I live)  UNLEARN (Myths, grey areas, debatable issues)  90 degrees (What we do not know about the topic as yet/creative suggestions such as autism and music) We initially applied article framework to a few existing articles - Reading Habits in Children ; Carcinogens in Food ; Leather ; Rainwater harvesting ; Exercise During Pregnancy . Though I was resistant to change, the final product did appear more reader friendly. Articles like Toothpaste benefitted from the framework. I had never thought of searching for the impact of toothpaste on our environment. Rather till I researched, I was shamefully not aware of the many chemicals I was flushing down the drain way into the ground water and water ways. Addressing the section “How does it affect me” for Body Odour , I realized that people suffering from body odour might suffer from severe problems in their personal, social and workplace relationship resulting in anxiety and depression . While researching for matter to write under the “unlearn” section of Grey hair , I learnt that plucking grey hair increased the greying process was a myth! And I never knew breast milk was biologically active. As I recall the good times I had applying the framework, I will also have to admit that articles like Teenage Pregnancy or School Violence looked better before the application of framework.  Take Graeme’s recent article Salt and health . It reads best as it is. When it came to writing new articles based on the article framework, I was hesitant initially. Soon, I found it easier to write articles under the framework. Soon there was Paraben ; Breast milk ; Organic baby soap .  I especially enjoyed writing Breakfast , Toxic chemicals found in homes and Deforestation and climate change .  Abhijit wrote about Carcinogens in Foods , Fussy Eaters , Turmeric , Cell Phone etc. He still does not enjoy the framework as much as me, but I was on a roll again. Soon frameworked articles like   Christmas Tree , Grey hair and Homemade baby food were getting people engaged through discussions.  We are continuing to apply the article framework to the old articles as well as new ones; although we are still not sure whether the Article Framework is really beneficial.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Article_Framework_%e2%80%93_a_step_in_the_right_direction%3f&ArticleID=1655http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Article_Framework_%e2%80%93_a_step_in_the_right_direction%3f&ArticleID=1655#commentsWed, 31 Dec 2008 11:08:40 GMTRitz Royal English An exquisite blend, the rich malty taste of Assam blended with the fine flavour of Ceylon, wonderful colour of Kenyan, making this blend very well-rounded. Darjeeling First Flush Truly the Champagne of teas, a rare & wonderful experience, this Black tea, from the first tender new shoots grown between February and April on the foothills of the Himalayas, producing a wonderful light liquor with a delicate flavour of green muscatel. Assam Leaf (Tippy Orthodox) A full bodied black tea, high grown in the north of India, a golden tippy leaf yielding a rich aroma, strong, rounded malty flavour and attractive red liquor. Ceylon Orange Pekoe A high- grown large leaf black tea, rich amber liquor, light full flavour with scented aroma. Russian Caravan A blend of China, Formosa & Darjeeling leafs reminiscent of tea carried to Russia from China by camels. Earl Grey A large black leaf tea, China based, beautifully balanced with refreshing citrus bergamot, silky & smooth with a delightful aroma. Lapsang Souchong Imperiale A China large black leaf tea from the Fujien province, smoked over pine fires, a distinct smoky tea with a silky tarriness, wonderful depth of flavour. Jasmine With Flowers (green) A China based semi-fermented tea from the Fujien province, beautifully flavoured with jasmine flowers, wonderful perifime with delicate taste, a light gentle refreshing tea. Rose Congou / Pouchong A China black tea from the Guangdong province enriched with rose petals & flavoured with rose aroma, very gentle, light, a delicious tea. Chun Mee (green) An unfermented tea, long fine jade leaves, elegant pale yellow liquor, lightly scented, highly refreshing velvety green taste. Oolong (Formosa - Taiwan) A semi-fermented tea, attractive amber hue, slightly nutty taste yet fully developed aroma. Moroccan Mint A wonderfully invigorating spearmint tea, caffeine free, highly scented, stimulating in the morning, soothing digestif. Elderflower A creamy musk-scented Summer Flower, comforting & wonderfully relaxing enhanced with sugar & honey. Camomile Heads A pretty infusion, calming, soothing & delicate, elegant aroma. Verveine / Lemon Verbene An elegant, sparkling lemon tasting tisane, refreshing, digestif. Passion Fruit & Orange A truly wonderful taste, apple, hibiscus, sweet orange peel blended with passion fruit & orange. Rooibos Red Tea 100% caffeine free, rich in vitamin c, mineral salts, proteins & anti-oxidant Ritz Tea An afternoon Tea at The Ritz Hotel in Piccadilly, London is a wonderful treat to your family and is served the the spectacular Palm Court of the hotel with finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones, jam and clotted cream and a range of delicate pastries. Apart from the Tea at The Ritz, one can also taste Tea at Grosvenor House and Sofitel St James Tea.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Types_of_Tea_-_What_type_of_Tea_do_you_like_to_Drink%3f&ArticleID=1653http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Types_of_Tea_-_What_type_of_Tea_do_you_like_to_Drink%3f&ArticleID=1653#commentsWed, 31 Dec 2008 05:16:52 GMTWhen you are in London which is also popularly known as mini World, a stay at Knightsbridge is highly recommended. Knightsbridge will make your holiday incredible. Knightsbridge is located in Central London in the center of City of Westminster. Knightsbridge is also famed for its finest restaurants, shops, art galleries and hotels. Hyde Park is the pride of Knightsbridge where you can stroll along in the evening, run, go horse riding or boating on the large Serpentine Lake. Being situated very close to the West End and within easy reach of the City of London and Canary Wharf, Knightsbridge is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Knightsbridge is an affluent neighborhood and home to many of the world’s richest people. Knightsbridge is one of the famous locations in London. During your stay in London either for your leisure or business, there are many hotels and apartments that will make your stay home away from home. When you are in Knightsbridge, shopping is one of the things that you can indulge in. If you have money, then go on a shopping spree at the famous Harrods, Selfridges, and Harvey Nichols where you can buy designer clothes for men and women, designer bags, shoes, electronics, jewellery, home appliances, fashion accessories, and many more. Buy gifts and luxury items at Belinda Robertson for your loved ones. If you have small children at home, then shopping at Dragons of Walton Street will greatly benefit you as you can buy hand painted furniture fort children, wallpapers, fabrics and fittings. At the Harvey Nichols you can splurge on beauty accessories, branded clothes for men, women and children, handbags, sunglasses and many other items. Knightsbridge boasts of several attractions that are located in close vicinity. Visit these: Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain in Hyde Park Houses of Parliament Buckingham Palace Spencer House Westminster Abbey Albermarle Gallery St James’s Park Clarence House Downing House Science Museum Victoria & Albert Museum Westminster Cathedral If you are a foodie and love to experiment new cuisines, then Knightsbridge restaurants will offer you the opportunity. Knightsbridge restaurants serve all kinds of dishes from all over the world. If you have a taste for continental food, then Richoux Restaurant is the place to be. Introduce your taste bud to Pan-Asian dishes including Thai curry, katsu and noodles at Pan Asian Restaurant. For Mediterranean cuisine, Mimosa Bar & Restaurant is ideal. Knightsbridge takes care of its guest by offering comfortable and spacious hotels and apartments. Knightsbridge hotels and apartments are located conveniently near shopping, restaurants, local attractions, thus giving you value for your money. The excellent facilities and amenities are designed to serve all kinds of travelers. The hospitality offered at Knightsbridge hotels and apartments will make your day. If you are a business traveler, a stay at the Carlton Tower hotel is highly recommended. Millennium Knightsbridge Hotel is ideal for both leisure and business travelers because of its ideal location near shopping like Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Make your London trip truly remarkable by choosing to stay in Knightsbridge.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Knightsbridge_-_A_Wealthy_Neighborhood_of_London&ArticleID=1652http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Knightsbridge_-_A_Wealthy_Neighborhood_of_London&ArticleID=1652#commentsTue, 30 Dec 2008 13:31:26 GMTAre our thoughts on some level audible?  I have been thinking about this the past two days. We hear our thoughts in our heads, but how? I mean sometimes when I am thinking my tongue moves slightly as if i am pronouncing what I am thinking, so what if our thoughts are actually spoken outwardly also, and they are just on diff frequency than everyone else. What on our heads other than our ears are used to hear our thoughts. What if our brain has it's own private thoughts. What if our thoughts only exist to help the brain to better run things. I am going to post my question everywhere and see what answers  -Cynthia Yildirimhttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Are_our_thoughts_on_some_level_audible%3f&ArticleID=1650http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Are_our_thoughts_on_some_level_audible%3f&ArticleID=1650#commentsMon, 29 Dec 2008 07:55:08 GMTBasic French Words Bonjour = Hello S’il vous plait = Please Merci = Thank You Au revoir = Good Bye Rue = Street Boulevard = Boulevard Avenue = Avenue Hôtel = Hotel Restaurant = Restaurant L’addition = The Bill Guache = Left Droite = Right Un = One Deux = Two Trois = Three Quatre = Four Cinq = Five Dix = Ten Cent = Hundred Mille = Thousand Parlez-vous anglais? = Do you speak English? Je ne comprends pas = I don’t undertand Je m'appelle = My name is Non = No D’accord = Ok Comment? = What? Quand = When Où = Where Comment vous appellez vous = what is your name? Phrases Useful in Transportation by Train Un billet en première = A first class ticket Un billet simple = A one way ticket Un billet d’aller et retour to = A round trip ticket to…. Un billet en deuxième = A second class ticket Un billet pour = A ticket to Combien coûte un billet pour = How much is a ticket to Est-ce bien le train pour …? = Is this the train for ….? Les trains Régionaux = Local trains Les Grandes Lignes = Long distance trains Les toilettes = Rest rooms Les horaires = Time table À quelle heur arrive le train = What time does the train arrive ? À quelle heur part le train ? = What time does the train leave? Où est le quai pour… ? = Where is the platform for… Où est le guichet ? = Where is the ticket office? Où est la gare? = Where is the train station? Où est le bureau des objets perdus et trouvés = Where is the lost and found office? Est-ce que vous allez à = Do you go to Où est la station metro la plus proche = Where is the closest metro station? Quel est le prix du trajet? = How much is the fare? Est-ce que le train est en retard? = Is the train late? Est-ce que le train est tôt? = Is the train early? Phrases Useful in Restaurants Je voudrais = I would like Commander = to Order Une bouteille du vin = A bootle of wine Une tasse de café = A cup of coffee Une tasse de thé = A cup of tea Un verre d’eau = A glass of water Un menu = A menu Le petit-déjeuner = breakfast Le dîner = Dinner Le déjeuner = lunch Le plat principal = The main course La carte des vins = The wine list Phrases Used in the Passport and Custom Office Je suis en vacances = I am on vacation Je suis en voyage d’affaires = I am on a business trip Mon adresse est = My address is Voice mon passeport = Here is my passport Je resterai une semaine = I am staying a week Je resterai un mois = I am staying a month Je resterai quelques jours = I am staying a couple of days Dois-je payer des droits de douane? = Do I have to pay duty? Je loge à = I am staying at Phrases and Words for Hotel Accommodation Je voudrais une chamber = I would like a room pour une nuit / deux nuits = for one night / two nights. pour une personne / deux personnes = for one person / two people à deux lits = with two beds dans la chamber = in the room Je voudrais payer = I would like to pay with en espèces = cash avec des chèques de voyage = traveler’s checks avec une carte de credit = a credit card Je voudrais = I would like régler mon compte = to pay my bill un reçu = a receipt Avez-vous un = Do you have a? Ascenseur = elevator service de lessive = laundry service coiffeur = hairdresser/barber piscine = pool Quelle est l'heure limite d'occupation ? = What is the check-out time? C'est combien ? = How much is it? Le rez-de-chaussee = 1st floor (US), Ground Floor (BR) Le premier étage = 2nd floor (US), 1st Floor (BR) Le Couloir = hallway La Chamber = room La porte = door La fenêtre = window Le lit = bed L’oreiller = pillow Le canapé = sofa La sale de bain, les toilettes, les W.-C. = bathroom Le lavabo = sink La douche = shower La serviette = Towel La femme de chamber = Maid L’employé = employee Phrases Used During Money Transaction in Banks Où puis-je changer l’argent? = Where can I change money? Prenez-vous des chèques de voyage? = Do you take travelers’ checks? Où est la banque la plus proche? = Where is the closest bank? Où se trouve un bureau de change? = Where is there a money exchange? Où dois-je signer? = Where do I sign? Phrases and Words Used to Rent a Car Je voudrais louer une voiture = I'd like to rent a car Je voudrais = I'd like voiture économie = economy car voiture compacte = compact car. voiture intermédiaire = mid-size car voiture luxe = luxury car voiture décapotable = convertible camion = truck C'est combien? = How much will it cost? Dois-je payer par kilomètre? = Do I have to pay by the kilometer? L'assurance est-elle comprise? = Is insurance included? Où puis-je prendre la voiture? = Where can I pick up the car? Quand dois-je la rendre ? = When do I have to return it?http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Useful_Phrases_in_French&ArticleID=1646http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Useful_Phrases_in_French&ArticleID=1646#commentsMon, 29 Dec 2008 06:38:00 GMTIt must be a familiar experience to most of us. We walk into a room where there is pin-drop silence. Yet we can feel an unpleasant atmosphere has been created there, maybe not so long ago. This atmosphere can be created not only by negative words, conversations and actions but also by negative thoughts and feelings. This negative energy thus created is so strong that it clings to the walls, doors, ceilings and hang heavy in the atmosphere.   Even if toxic human emotions persist long enough they will begin to cling to your floors, walls, ceilings and, over time, will create a negative atmosphere in the entire home. All your possessions which you have collected so painstakingly, and which you are so proud of, will then start absorbing these energies.   The more intense these toxic emotions, the stronger its presence can be felt and the longer it will linger in your homes. Toxic emotions are nothing but a form of energy which has not been spent the way it should have been. It was not spent because we didn’t know how to spend that energy.   Children don't measure and spend energy Before they reach the age of reason, children receive a lot of energy and they spend it lavishly. Whatever energy they receive they do not measure and calculate and spend as we grown ups do. That’s why they always have energy enough to play for hours and don’t get tired.   As we grow up we begin to measure and calculate the energy we should spend. Lots we store within ourselves, some we spend, some we spend grudgingly. But we do all this spending and storing without having the knowledge of the process of receiving the energy. And as we don’t know the process of receiving energy and how best to spend that energy, we allow a huge amount of energy to stagnate within us.   Usually this process of calculating and measuring the energy to spend is a futile exercise as long as we don’t know how and from where we get the energy. And until we know, it is better to freely spend what we get, rather than let it stagnate within us.   Spend it lavishly until we become conscious of the receiving of energies, learn to distinguish the favorable energies from the negative energies, and when they come, know what to do with them.   Most of us either don’t absorb enough energy or take in too much but do not assimilate what we take in. Becoming restless, talking, shouting are methods we use to throw out the energies we have not been able to assimilate.   Next time you come across someone behaving in this manner, or come face to face with a silent aggressor, remember it is a case of misplaced energy.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Toxic_emotion_is_nothing_but_misplaced_energy&ArticleID=1645http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Toxic_emotion_is_nothing_but_misplaced_energy&ArticleID=1645#commentsSun, 28 Dec 2008 23:51:46 GMTWhen we look back over the year that has been, it becomes clearer that even though at times we (me, you, us, humanity and the earth) may feel as if we are stuck, not moving forward and repeating the same patterns, that we have actually mastered the art of linking a collection of seemingly unrelated and odd little stories together to create a much larger and magnificent work of art! When we look back over our lives, at the chapters in the book of our lives that have already been written, it becomes clearer that, as Freud, said, the future is a blank page. As the architects of tomorrow, we choose. We can either let circumstances provide the plot, or else define the plot ourselves in our imaginations and write the text as the future becomes the present. What will you choose to build? What will you write? What will you create? You could say that each of us are in some ways like Robert Frost's wet dream: two paths diverge in a wood and we’re considering our options on taking the path less taken. As we are a smaller part of something bigger and we never know what is coming, I wish you unrelenting excitement in each word that you choose to write in 2009. Edith Lovejoy Pierce said "We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called "Opportunity" and its first chapter is New Year's Day."http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=As_the_Clock_Strikes_Twelve_on_Wednesday_Night&ArticleID=1644http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=As_the_Clock_Strikes_Twelve_on_Wednesday_Night&ArticleID=1644#commentsFri, 26 Dec 2008 05:40:39 GMTLondon never fails to satisfy shoppers. With numerous shopping malls in various districts, shoppers can have the best time of their life. If you have the money to spend, London is no doubt the best place to gratify your shopping craving. Whether you are looking for fashionable clothing, accessories, furniture, designer handbags, antiques, arts, crafts, cosmetics, London shopping malls has everything that your heart desires. When you are in London either for business or leisure trip, take out time to visit some of the shopping malls in London and come back home richer with your favorite designer wear. Check out the below shopping malls for a wonderful experience. Selfridges If you are brand conscious, then you can come to the world famous departmental store, Selfridges. Known for its brand all over the world, visitors can get anything branded from women’s, men’s, kids wear to jewellery. Gift yourself that watch from Tag Heuer and feel on top of the world. For fashion lovers, Selfridges is the place to splurge on luxury leather, accessories, designer handbags, high heels, toys, beauty products, books signed by celebrities, and many more. Explore the various stores of Selfridges as the list is endless. Whiteley’s Shopping Center At Whiteley’s Shopping Center you can have the pleasure of both dining and shopping in a single place. Whiteley’s Shopping Center offers restaurant and entertainment where visitors can relax after a fruitful shopping. You can look forward to shop for accessories such as day bags, evening bags, jewellery, beach wear, shoes and flip flops, hats and caps, sunglasses, belts, purses and wallets, hair accessories, lingerie and vests, hosiery, socks, gloves, scarves and wraps for girls. For the more homely there are bedding collections, bedspreads, bed cushions, and home accessories. You can get anything for your family at the Whiteley’s from children’s wear to men’s like shirt, tops and t-shirt, knitwear. Women will love the beautiful and chic collection of dresses, tops and kaftans, shoes. Harrod’s Your shopping in London is incomplete if you have not set your feet at Harrods, the largest department store in the world. Harrods truly deserves its motto of “All Things for All People, Everywhere.” Harrods is one single place where you can find almost anything and everything for all kinds of customer. Harrods has something for everyone including women, men, children, and infants. Enthusiasts shoppers can shop to their hearts content for electronics, jewellery, sporting gear, bridal trousseau, pets and pet accessories, toys, food and drink, health and beauty items, packaged gifts, stationery, housewares, home appliances, furniture, and much more. If time permits, you can tour all the shops at Harrods to get the high of shopping. Canary Wharf Canary Wharf is a well known business district. It is also reputed for its fashion. Whether you are businessman or regular traveler, Canary Wharf will cater to the taste of both. Fashion lovers can discover the fine work of fashion in the form of fashionable wear which are in tune with the latest trend and mood of time. You can get from the most elegant to the most chic women’s and men’s wear. Greeting cards for all occasion are also available here. If you are into accessories, you will simply love this place. Gadget freaks can find gadgets of the latest technology which will delight them to no end. Students and book lovers can look forward to academic books and references. Burlington Arcade Step into Burlington Arcade which is one of the most beautiful shopping streets. Burlington Arcade offers you the world of everything ranging from softest cashmere to sparkling antiques, vintage watches, connoisseur writing materials, sweet smelling fragrance and top quality leather goods. If you are lucky you can catch celebrities doing their shopping in Burlington Arcade. Known not only for its luxury accessories, Burlington Arcade is renowned for its historic and architectural masterpiece. Delight your soul as you buy your favorite dress, gadget, sports wear, accessories, and book from London shopping malls.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Rendezvous_with_Shopping_Malls_in_London&ArticleID=1641http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Rendezvous_with_Shopping_Malls_in_London&ArticleID=1641#commentsFri, 26 Dec 2008 05:32:17 GMTParis is known to be the capital of cinema. Parisians love cinema and that is reflected in its movie theatres numbering up to stupendous 100. Parisian love for cinema can also be seen in the varied themes of cinema. Throughout the city approximately 300 films run in any given week which itself is a testimony how Parisians are passionate about cinema. Cinema is a platform where human beings can express their innermost and myriad of emotions in the most sensible and authentic way. Cinema can deal with many of the social and economic issues which otherwise may not be possible to deal with in real life. Parisians have beautifully woven these issues intricately in their cinema. The beauty of Parisian cinema lies in the simplicity and vividness that are so near to real life. The enthusiasm and spontaneity of Parisians are represented in Paris cinema that will compel you to admire. When you are in Paris, a visit to Paris movie theatre is highly recommended. Before you enter you can buy popcorn to enjoy the movie with. Some of the movie theatres that are worth visiting are: La Cinematheque Francaise La Cinematheque Francaise is a 70 year old film center and is a high institution in the Paris film world. Designed by American architect Frank Gehry, La Cinematheque Francaise is now situated magnificently on a left-bank from cramped quarters in Northeastern Paris. More than 40,000 films have been shown in the course of history. It is best known for hosting programmes packed with revivals. Le Champo Known for its memorable retrospectives, Le Champo is one of the Latin Quarter's most stardusted spots. The cinema is popular among students community which is situated at the Sorbonne just a block away. The Champo has programmed hommages to Woody Allen, Nouvelle Vague cinema of the 60s, Tim Burton, Claude Chabrol, and Stanley Kubrick. Built in 1938, it has hosted premieres for French directors like Marcel Carne and Jacques Tati. Le Reflet Medicis If you want to see films on noir revivals and some of the best independent cinema from around the world, then Le Reflet Medicis is the ideal place to be. It shows original-version films in English frequently. Le Reflet is situated right next door to the Champo on the famed Rue Champollion. The venue is divided into three distinct theatres with separate programming. La Pagode Housed in a 19th century building, La Pagode resembles Chinese pagoda. Situated in the heart of the chic 7th arrondissement, close to the Bon Marche department store, La Pagode is one of the city's most lavishly designed theatres. Known for revivals and thematic festivals, English-language contemporary and historic films in Original Version are also frequently screened here. The main attraction inside is a cool green terrace for tea and a black cat named Licorice that sprawled over the programs. Mk2 Quai de Seine and Mk2 Quai de Loire Situated in the 19th arrondissement, Mk2 Quai de Seine and Mk2 Quai de Loire are recent sister cinemas that face each other across a canal known as the Bassin de la Villette in Northeastern Paris. You can enjoy several English-language films in the village like ambience in the multiplex. Across the canal you can be shuttled in a tiny white boat with your movie ticket. You can also spend your time in the cafe, restaurant and multimedia shopping. Centre Georges Pompidou Cinemas Located in central Paris, Centre Georges Pompidou is a cinema that is well-known for its tributes to great directors and thematic festivals. Homages to Martin Scorsese and Jean-Luc Godard and a look at films produced by students at the Cal Arts film school are the recent retrospectives.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Set_a_Date_with_Movie_Theatres_in_Paris&ArticleID=1640http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Set_a_Date_with_Movie_Theatres_in_Paris&ArticleID=1640#commentsThu, 25 Dec 2008 10:41:13 GMTWoken up to a bright, clear morning and I'm just about to take the dog for her Christmas constitutional but thought I'd just pop in and wish all you beautiful copperwotsits a very merry Christmas! I know I should have sent cards but there's far too many of you so, in lieu, I pass on this wonderful video link of an old standard to put you in the mood for goodwill and celebration - sing along! (Don't panic - it's not Slade). So without further ado - and be sure to don your finest headphones for this listening experience! - I wish you all, with love, Merry Christmas, Everybody! ~ Playing for changehttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Merry_Christmas%2c_Everybody!!!&ArticleID=1639http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Merry_Christmas%2c_Everybody!!!&ArticleID=1639#commentsThu, 25 Dec 2008 04:43:54 GMTThoughts to Ponder Daily Quotes from The Urantia Book Courtesy of Urantia Foundation For the week starting Sunday, November 23rd November 23 You can cultivate gracefulness, but graciousness is the aroma of friendliness which emanates from a love-saturated soul. [The Urantia Book, p. 1874, par. 4] November 24 Divine justice is so eternally fair that it unfailingly embodies understanding mercy. [The Urantia Book, p. 1898, par. 3] November 25 Your inability or unwillingness to forgive your fellows is the measure of your immaturity, your failure to attain adult sympathy, understanding, and love. [The Urantia Book, p. 1898, par. 5] November 26 You hold grudges and nurse vengefulness in direct proportion to your ignorance of the inner nature and true longings of your children and your fellow beings. [The Urantia Book, p. 1898, par. 5] November 27 Love is the outworking of the divine and inner urge of life. It is founded on understanding, nurtured by unselfish service, and perfected in wisdom. [The Urantia Book, p. 1898, par. 5] November 28 A tremendous responsibility rests upon all earthly fathers so to live and order their homes that the word father becomes worthily enshrined in the minds and hearts of all growing children. [The Urantia Book, p. 1923, par. 1] November 29 You can know the truth, and you can live the truth; you can experience the growth of truth in the soul and enjoy the liberty of its enlightenment in the mind, but you cannot imprison truth in formulas, codes, creeds, or intellectual patterns of human conduct. [The Urantia Book, p. 1949, par. 4] Share Thoughts to Ponder ------------------------------------------------------ We encourage you to share these "thoughts" with friends, family, associates, and colleagues. Also, feel free to spread these thoughts by adding a favorite to your outbound email "signature." News from Urantia Foundation ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to receive Urantia Foundations email News, go to this link: http://www.urantia.org/EmailListSignup.html Unsubscribe ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to unsubscribe, scroll to the very end of this email and click the link at the bottom. Miscellaneous ------------------------------------------------------ To learn more about "The Urantia Book" and Urantia Foundation, visit: http://www.urantia.org To purchase a copy of "The Urantia Book," visit your local bookstore or: http://www.urantia.org/about.html#Get If you would like to purchase a "perpetual" calendar of these daily "thoughts," visit: http://www.urantia-uai.org/thoughtgems.html --------------------------------------------------- © 1955,2003 Urantia Foundation. All rights reserved. Urantia Foundation has published the original, authorized text of The Urantia Book since 1955. Visit our website at www.urantia.org. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Proudly powered by Subscribe Me Litehttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_4&ArticleID=1637http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_4&ArticleID=1637#commentsThu, 25 Dec 2008 04:40:58 GMTThoughts to Ponder Daily Quotes from The Urantia Book Courtesy of Urantia Foundation For the week starting Sunday, December 7th: December 7 And the fruits of the divine spirit which are yielded in the lives of spirit-born and God-knowing mortals are: loving service, unselfish devotion, courageous loyalty, sincere fairness, enlightened honesty, undying hope, confiding trust, merciful ministry, unfailing goodness, forgiving tolerance, and enduring peace. [The Urantia Book, p. 2054, par. 3] December 8 Increasingly, must you yield the fruits of the spirit as you progress heavenward in the kingdom of God. [The Urantia Book, p. 2054, par. 3] December 9 The spiritual forward urge is the most powerful driving force present in this world [The Urantia Book, p. 2063, par. 2] December 10 Mankind can be unified only by the spiritual approach, and the Spirit of Truth is a world influence which is universal. [The Urantia Book, p. 2065, par. 6] December 11 Religion is designed to find those values in the universe which call forth faith, trust, and assurance; religion culminates in worship. Religion discovers for the soul those supreme values which are in contrast with the relative values discovered by the mind. [The Urantia Book, p. 2075, par. 11] December 12 As you view the world, remember that the black patches of evil which you see are shown against a white background of ultimate good. You do not view merely white patches of good which show up miserably against a black background of evil. [The Urantia Book, p. 2076, par. 3] December 13 We find God through the leadings of spiritual insight, but we approach this insight of the soul through the love of the beautiful, the pursuit of truth, loyalty to duty, and the worship of divine goodness. [The Urantia Book, p. 2076, par. 5] Share Thoughts to Ponder ------------------------------------------------------ We encourage you to share these "thoughts" with friends, family, associates, and colleagues. Also, feel free to spread these thoughts by adding a favorite to your outbound email "signature." News from Urantia Foundation ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to receive Urantia Foundations email News, go to this link: http://www.urantia.org/EmailListSignup.html Unsubscribe ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to unsubscribe, scroll to the very end of this email and click the link at the bottom. Miscellaneous ------------------------------------------------------ To learn more about "The Urantia Book" and Urantia Foundation, visit: http://www.urantia.org To purchase a copy of "The Urantia Book," visit your local bookstore or: http://www.urantia.org/about.html#Get If you would like to purchase a "perpetual" calendar of these daily "thoughts," visit: http://www.urantia-uai.org/thoughtgems.html --------------------------------------------------- © 1955,2003 Urantia Foundation. All rights reserved. Urantia Foundation has published the original, authorized text of The Urantia Book since 1955. Visit our website at www.urantia.org. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Proudly powered by Subscribe Me Litehttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_3&ArticleID=1636http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_3&ArticleID=1636#commentsThu, 25 Dec 2008 04:36:57 GMTThoughts to Ponder Daily Quotes from The Urantia Book Courtesy of Urantia Foundation For the week starting Sunday, December 14th: December 14 Moral convictions based on spiritual enlightenment and rooted in human experience are just as real and certain as mathematical deductions based on physical observations, but on another and higher level. [The Urantia Book, p. 2077, par. 8] December 15 Secularism can never bring peace to mankind. Nothing can take the place of God in human society. [The Urantia Book, p. 2081, par. 6] December 16 In winning souls for the Master, it is not the first mile of compulsion, duty, or convention that will transform man and his world, but rather the second mile of free service and liberty-loving devotion [The Urantia Book, p. 2084, par. 5] December 17 Of all human knowledge, that which is of greatest value is to know the religious life of Jesus and how he lived it. [The Urantia Book, p. 2090, par. 4] December 18 It should not be the aim of kingdom believers literally to imitate the outward life of Jesus in the flesh but rather to share his faith; to trust God as he trusted God and to believe in men as he believed in men. [The Urantia Book, p. 2091, par. 1] December 19 You may preach a religion about Jesus, but, perforce, you must live the religion of Jesus. [The Urantia Book, p. 2091, par. 3] December 20 The progressive comprehension of reality is the equivalent of approaching God. [The Urantia Book, p. 2094, par. 2] Share Thoughts to Ponder ------------------------------------------------------ We encourage you to share these "thoughts" with friends, family, associates, and colleagues. Also, feel free to spread these thoughts by adding a favorite to your outbound email "signature." News from Urantia Foundation ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to receive Urantia Foundations email News, go to this link: http://www.urantia.org/EmailListSignup.html Unsubscribe ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to unsubscribe, scroll to the very end of this email and click the link at the bottom. Miscellaneous ------------------------------------------------------ To learn more about "The Urantia Book" and Urantia Foundation, visit: http://www.urantia.org To purchase a copy of "The Urantia Book," visit your local bookstore or: http://www.urantia.org/about.html#Get If you would like to purchase a "perpetual" calendar of these daily "thoughts," visit: http://www.urantia-uai.org/thoughtgems.htmlhttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_2&ArticleID=1635http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_2&ArticleID=1635#commentsThu, 25 Dec 2008 04:33:43 GMTThoughts to Ponder Daily Quotes from The Urantia Book Courtesy of Urantia Foundation For the week starting Sunday, December 21st: December 21 Unless a divine lover lived in man, he could not unselfishly and spiritually love. [The Urantia Book, p. 2094, par. 15] December 22 You cannot put spiritual joy under a microscope. [The Urantia Book, p. 2095, par. 2] December 23 You cannot weigh love in a balance. [The Urantia Book, p. 2095, par. 2] December 24 Man aspires by worship to be better and thereby eventually attains the best. [The Urantia Book, p. 2095, par. 6] December 25 God is not the mere invention of man's idealism; he is the very source of all such superanimal insights and values. [The Urantia Book, p. 2095, par. 8] December 26 Religion stands above science, art, philosophy, ethics, and morals, but not independent of them. [The Urantia Book, p. 2096, par. 4] December 27 Religious insight possesses the power of turning defeat into higher desires and new determinations. [The Urantia Book, p. 2096, par. 5] Share Thoughts to Ponder ------------------------------------------------------ We encourage you to share these "thoughts" with friends, family, associates, and colleagues. Also, feel free to spread these thoughts by adding a favorite to your outbound email "signature." News from Urantia Foundation ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to receive Urantia Foundations email News, go to this link: http://www.urantia.org/EmailListSignup.html Unsubscribe ------------------------------------------------------ If you'd like to unsubscribe, scroll to the very end of this email and click the link at the bottom. Miscellaneous ------------------------------------------------------ To learn more about "The Urantia Book" and Urantia Foundation, visit: http://www.urantia.org To purchase a copy of "The Urantia Book," visit your local bookstore or: http://www.urantia.org/about.html#Get If you would like to purchase a "perpetual" calendar of these daily "thoughts," visit: http://www.urantia-uai.org/thoughtgems.html --------------------------------------------------- © 1955,2003 Urantia Foundation. All rights reserved. Urantia Foundation has published the original, authorized text of The Urantia Book since 1955. Visit our website at www.urantia.org. Proudly powered by Subscribe Me Litehttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_1&ArticleID=1634http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Thoughts_to_Ponder_from_The_Urantia_Book_1&ArticleID=1634#commentsTue, 23 Dec 2008 16:19:00 GMTMost Indians complain about the imperfections of the Indian systems. The wealth does not trickle down; the schemes and the programmes of the western world can't have a similar success here; the stock market.... and the list is endless. The common woe -- "Nothing works here..." A week ago, I was visiting a very small town in the heartland of India. I asked people about the impact of recession on their lives. They said "But that is happening in Delhi and Mumbai and the US right?" I asked the local shopkeepers too and took the effort of explaining the meaning of recession in the local language to them. They also seemed quite unaffected.   In fact one of them asked. "But haven't the times improved?" I was taken aback and asked him to explain. He said, "Well with the fuel price falling, the vegetables and the groceries are cheaper; and people have more money to buy local wares and produce than they had a few months ago!"  By the way, the local job market depended on government jobs (which were unaffected) and the local economy.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=The_imperfect_economy&ArticleID=1627http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=The_imperfect_economy&ArticleID=1627#commentsTue, 23 Dec 2008 08:15:22 GMTChristmas is one festival which is celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervor all over the world irrespective of caste, creed, gender and nationality. When the word Christmas is mentioned, the first thing that comes to our mind is Santa Claus and Christmas cakes. Our imagination help us to visualizes a pine tree decorated with balloons, Santa Claus, bells, lights, fragrant flowers, and angel on top of the Christmas tree. Also images of Christmas cakes and Christmas gifts gladden our hearts. However, the best part of the festival is exchanging of gifts with one another. If you want to celebrate Christmas in the most exclusive way, then start it by preparing for it in advance. You may like to plan where you want to spend your Christmas this time with your family. What kind of thing you are expecting and what you want to do etc. How much is your budget and where you want to head? These are some of the basic things that require advance preparation. If you are spiritual kind you would like to choose your Christmas destination where you get to listen to Christmas messages or where you can attend Christmas mass. The essence of Christmas is Christmas carols that are so joyful bringing the good news of the birth of baby Jesus. You can also check out for all inclusive Christmas break packages to get great value for your money during your Christmas vacation. Browse through the internet to bag the most exclusive Christmas package. Christmas is also the time when you can forgive and forget the wrongs others did to you and time to ask forgiveness if you have done anything wrong to any person. Celebrate the festival in its true spirit by welcoming baby Jesus in your heart. Choose your best Christmas destination according to your taste and budget. Have your best Christmas ever with your loved ones and revel in the festive season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you All!http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Have_you_Started_your_Christmas_Preparations%3f&ArticleID=1624http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Have_you_Started_your_Christmas_Preparations%3f&ArticleID=1624#commentsMon, 22 Dec 2008 20:53:15 GMTLet’s start by going back over 150 years.  In the 1850’s a devout German doctor called Friederich Küchenmeister read about some experiments that had been conducted with worms.  To the provincial doctor who wrote books on medical zoology and managed the local cremation club ‘Die Urne’, this was a most exciting turn in his career.   After his initial experiments on rabbits, dogs and pigs, Küchenmeister entered the big time.  “He got permission to feed bladder worms to a prisoner about to be executed, and in 1854 was notified of a murderer about to be decapitated in a few days.  His wife happened to notice that the warm roast pork they were eating for dinner had a few bladder worms in it.  Küchenmeister rushed to the restaurant where they had bought the pork and he begged for a pound of the raw meat, even though the pig had been slaughtered a few days earlier and was beginning to go bad.  The restaurant owners gave him some and the next day Küchenmeister picked out the bladder worms and put them in a noodle soup cooled to body temperature. The prisoner didn’t know what he was eating and enjoyed it so much he asked for seconds.  Küchenmeister gave him more soup, as well as blood sausage into which he had slipped bladder worms.  Three days later the murderer was executed and Küchenmeister searched his intestines. There he found young Tania tapeworms. They were still only a quarter of an inch long but they had already developed their distinctive double crown of twenty-two hooks. Five years later Küchenmeister repeated the experiment, this time feeding a convict four months before his execution.  Afterward he found tapeworms as long as five feet in the man’s intestines.”   Carl Zimmer, ‘Parasite Rex’.   The significance of Küchenmeister’s work was to evidence that parasites didn’t have to travel in the outside world to get from one host to another – they could grow inside one animal and wait for it to be eaten by another.  Even by today’s improved hygiene standards, you can ingest up to 1,000 parasite larvae eating a cubic inch of beef.   Worms are the larger classification of parasites and can usually be seen with the naked eye.  Although there are roundworm and flatworm the information here concerns the roundworm family only.  These are generally found in the small intestine but can also be found burrowing into the muscles, joints and blood stream where they can do significant damage.   It is estimated that 1,300 million humans worldwide are infected with roundworm and an additional 1,300 million with hookworm, 900 million with whipworm and 200 million with threadworm.  There are many other types of worm infecting humans and animals.   Worms reproduce by laying eggs.  The eggs are then deposited in the digestive tract, where they stick to the intestine walls. When the eggs hatch, the young feed on the food that we are digesting and eventually grow into adults. The adult worms then repeat the process. What you need to know about worms: - Worms cause physical trauma to body by perforating our major organs and circulatory system (causing symptoms such as Leaky Gut). - They can block organ functions by lumping together in ball (often mimicking tumours), and can affect the proper distribution of oxygen, blood and nutrition. - They rob us of vital nutrients (have you ever felt hungry after a good meal?) - They poison us by dumping metabolic wastes which our systems have trouble expelling. - They destroy cells faster than they can be regenerated, causing ulceration & anaemia.   The Physical Symptoms of worm infestation produce inflammations and irritation, tissue invasion, allergic reactions and mechanical problems (other than those above), especially in bile ducts and the intestines.   The Psychological symptoms include nightmares, depression with suicidal tendencies, irritability and mood swings, spacey feelings, personality changes, insomnia and hyperactivity and short attention spans in children.  So it is vital to at least consider parasitic activity as a cause of attention deficit before administering drugs such as Ritalin on children who are diagnosed as suffering from this.  And if you’re wondering how long we’ve known that parasites can cause psychological disturbances, the Chinese knew about this 5,000 years ago.    Demons of the body; Demons of the mind Until relatively recently the Western perception of Chinese Medicine was limited to acupuncture.  But as our understanding matured we expanded that range to include moxibustion, herbs, dietetics and Qi Gung exercises.  One of the most submerged areas of medical archaeology is the ancient diagnostics and treatment of Gu Zheng (Gu Syndrome).  Gu has been translated as ‘stagnation, debauchery, degeneration or hidden evil’ and features prominently in the Book of Change (I Ching).  Often dismissed as an “ancient, feudalistic and superstitious” belief in demons that has no value in modern clinical practice, closer examination of the original texts point the way to similar invisible demons that plague patients in our modern age – systemic fungi, parasites, moulds, viruses and other hidden pathogens.  Gu has been described as “…a disease that catapults the person’s mind and willpower into a state of chaos” and “Gu ranks second only to the viciousness of wild beasts when it comes to harmful natural influences.”   Now to some specifics…….   Tapeworm Tapeworms are the largest of the worm group. Pets get tapeworms from fleas.  Humans get tapeworms from undercooked foods and from their pets. Tapeworms have 3,000-4,000 segments, each containing 50,000 eggs and can release up to one million eggs per day. They can live as long as 25 years and can quickly develop to 10 meters/33 feet in length within the digestive tract.  If you see tapeworm segments in your stool it doesn’t mean you have successfully eliminated the infestation. Tapeworms have a head that attach to the intestinal wall using hooks. As long as the head remains attached, a new worm can grow from it. Their larvae can be found in almost any organ, being capable of infecting other tissues in varying stages of their development. Parasites have survival skills well beyond the capabilities of our immune system, especially when the immune system is compromised by enzyme-depleting foods and sugary drinks.   Tapeworm symptoms:  anything from mild diarrhoea and abdominal pain to anaemia, weakness, fatigue, ‘floaters’ in the eye, blurred vision, lumps under the skin and malnutrition.  Severe infestations can cause excruciating headaches and seizures, confusion, loss of balance, swelling of the brain and the development of cysts in the liver, lungs and central nervous system.  Tapeworm from fish can consume 80-100% of the hosts vitamin B-12.   Roundworm This classification includes hookworm, threadworm and whipworm.  Roundworm are often contracted through the skin (shaking hands with infected carriers, holding infected door handles, bank notes, toilet doors etc) and grow up to about 15 inches long. They live in the intestines although they can migrate throughout the body.  Roundworm look similar to an earthworm and can produce 200,000 eggs a day. Roundworm symptoms include upper abdominal discomfort, asthma, eye pain, insomnia, and rashes due to the secretions or waste toxins.  In large numbers they can hemorrhage when penetrating the intestinal wall, cause appendicitis, peritonitis, abscesses in the liver, loss of appetite, and insufficient absorption of digested foods.     A recent German study by Dr Klinghart, a world-renowned specialist in neurotoxins and parasitic diseases showed that people with roundworm and tapeworm can lose teeth.  The teeth simply start dying at the roots with accompanying bone decay in the jaw.  After extraction, the jawbone area becomes infected - caused by a toxic release from the worms. The toxins become absorbed and impact the teeth which are very sensitive structures.   The connection may seem unrelated on the surface but is clearly brought on by worm infestation.   Gum disease is equally a reflection of having inflammatory changes in the gut caused by various parasites.    Hookworm A special note on Hookworm.  Although part of the roundworm family, hookworm larvae penetrate the skin. Many fruits and vegetables have been found contaminated by faeces left by migrant workers in fields while picking.  If they’re not washed properly they’ll end up on your plate.  When hookworm mature, they can totally sap the victim's strength and vitality.  Young worms use their teeth to burrow through the intestinal wall and feed on your blood. Hookworm symptoms can include iron deficiency, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, a desire to eat soil, protein deficiency, water retention, dry skin/hair, skin irritations, distended abdomen, stunted growth, delayed puberty, mental dullness, cardiac failure and occasionally death.   Threadworm/pinworm Threadworm are the worms that most families come across.  They are white and grow to half inch in length.  Although they infect about one in five children, we are seeing more cases of adult infection occurring. Symptoms include itching and irritation of the anus or vagina, digestive disorders, insomnia, irritability or nervousness.  Female worms crawl out of the anus and lay about 15,000 eggs per night. If the infected host has a partner the threadworm can return to the anus of the partner.  When sheets and blankets are changed the eggs can become airborne, surviving for 48 hours anywhere in your living environment.  If your children display any symptoms, pull back the sheets when they’re asleep and shine torch on their anus.  Unfortunately you’ll only catch the ones you can see, but do wash their sheets, pillowcases AND blankets regularly.  Vacuum the mattress and surrounding area thoroughly as well.   What we can do about worms Use common sense: drinking water is increasingly becoming an act of faith but look for pure water systems and have water filters checked.  Wash your fruit and vegetables thoroughly; if you eat meat, cook it properly.  Wipe down the toilet seats before use especially in public and wash your hands and fingernails regularly throughout the day and especially before eating.  Do what you can to keep your immune system strong.    We have a film clip for you.  The first is a fairly conventional roundworm and tapeworm story, from Animal Planet (part of the Discovery Channel network).  In the middle of the clip they get their dig in against herbal medicines; at the end of the clip they state how drugs eliminated the tapeworm, head and all!  Media airbrushing as we have come to know and love!   The people at Animal Planet clearly haven’t come across Natural Cleanse which we discovered in 1996 and have used ever since. In our travels we have come across many other anti-parasite formulas; Natural Cleanse is in our opinion by far the most effective because of its broad spectrum application.   Click here Roundworm/Tapeworm clip       Precaution is infinitely better than an after-the-event struggle to recover from the effects of worm infestation, or any other parasite infestation.  We carry the 500 year old recipe from Natural Cleanse with us as our health insurance and we recommend you do the same.   For advice: www.resourcesforlife.nethttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Roundworm%2c_Tapeworm%2c_Hookworm_%26_Threadworm__-_reproducing_prodigiously_inside_you.&ArticleID=1620http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Roundworm%2c_Tapeworm%2c_Hookworm_%26_Threadworm__-_reproducing_prodigiously_inside_you.&ArticleID=1620#commentsMon, 22 Dec 2008 15:30:52 GMTSoon it is going to be a month since the Mumbai terror attacks. A lot has been written, discussed, shown across various forms of media then and after that -- and I have studiously avoided all of it. I am still trying to figure out why. The night it happened, I had just landed in Pune (120 km from Mumbai) and switched on the TV but I could not see  the screen for more than 30 seconds. I was so confident that the ordeal would be over soon.   I just used to see the news to confirm it was all  over and since it was not I blanked my mind and  immediately switched it off. It is not fear; it is not anger yet for I have still to reach that stage.  I can't read stories about loss in the newspaper. Why can't I? I am just stuck and I really need to work it out why am I being an escapist. I am still trying to comprehend a sane reason behind such inhuman acts, such unnecessary loss of lives. I don't yet feel anger or rage towards the terrorists. The only feeling that surfaced was today -- a sense of rage. This was when I learnt how a detailed study of Google Earth helped the terrorists plan their escape through alleyways. When we create technology, do we have any checks, balances and tests as to how it can be misused?http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=The_Mumbai_Terror_Attacks&ArticleID=1617http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=The_Mumbai_Terror_Attacks&ArticleID=1617#commentsSat, 20 Dec 2008 19:24:55 GMTOne of the most exciting things I have discovered on the internet in the past few years has been independent webcomics. This might seem a pretty trivial thing but it is a sign of a great success to me in a couple of big ways. Firstly, webcomics are a great example of people using the net for independent publication. This was part of my initial attraction the the net. It could be an opportunity for the publication for all sorts of things that would struggle to see the light of day through old-world physical publishing driven by profit. Secondly, webcomics make me happy. I enjoy reading them and they often make me smile and laugh. They even occasionally make me squirt hot coffee out my nose (which is a mixed blessing at best). Despite the trivial appearance of some of these comics being happy consistently has a great deal of value to me, and often the authors are dealing with some pretty weighty issues and I'll actually read them rather than just add them to the pile of "difficult" books that I want to read but never quite find time to. RSS is a crucial part of this happy equation. The comics just arrive, as if by magic, in my feed reader whenever they are published. I don't have to keep visiting the sites in hope of finding a new strip. Which is a good thing for me as I now subscribe to over 40 of the things. This usually means I have about 10 strips waiting for me every morning. About five minutes of simple joy at the beginning of the day. I would like to point you in the direction of some of my favourites: Questionable Content is a slightly twisted hipster version of soap opera written by Jeph Jacques. QC has a definite story to it and I enjoyed reading through the archives (another joy of internet publication). Basic Instructions, by Scott Meyer, uses a set four panel format to explore an issue. The comics all feature Scott trying to deal with an issue such as teaching a friend to use a computer, answering the phone or how to face your fear. Things seldom end well for Scott and these are certainly instructions to enjoy but not follow. xkcd is described by its author Randall Munroe as, "a webcomic of romance, sarcasm, math and language," and that sums it up pretty well but doesn't cover the depth of the humour (most of the time). Randall has worked as a programmer for NASA so he's got some computer and science credentials. The comic is usually drawn with stick figures so it's a good thing the humour is as sharp as it is and it can be razor sharp at times. We The Robots by Chris Harding deals with the bleak side of corporate life. It's a sort of darker Dilbert. The title is a play on "we the people," the opening of the preamble to the US constitution. Subnormality is written under the nom de plume of Winston Rowntree and deals with a wide range of subjects but often touches on politics, sociology and alternative music. The main recurring character is a sphinx dealing with living in modern America. The format varies from single panels with lots of annotation to multi-panel strips. I hope you enjoy these webcomics. If you find one you particularly like you can always look through the site's archive while waiting for a new strip to come out. If you have any favourite webcomics please let me know in the comments.http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Humour_%2b_Creativity_%2b_RSS_%3d_Webcomics&ArticleID=1601http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=Humour_%2b_Creativity_%2b_RSS_%3d_Webcomics&ArticleID=1601#commentsFri, 19 Dec 2008 21:33:46 GMTIt's amazing what you find in among the growing membership of CopperStrings: The wonderful Michael Galardi is clearly a cool dude with a very cool idea. Here it is "The Jolly Green Ice Machine (JGIM) has been a developing idea for the past three years. The proposal’s main core is to turn a large school bus into a mobile command center that travels the music and art festival circuit selling unrivaled and choicest flavored shaved Hawaiian ice! The idea has become much larger over time and now the JGIM has been born into a movement...The bike ride would take us through cities and towns across America “searching” for the Great America Jolly Green Ice Machine. We plan to volunteer and work random jobs to pay for food and other necessities. Adventures will be documented through articles and videos posted on the website. The website is the entertainment of the whole operation. On the website there will be an open forum to bring “Jolly” news to the world and follow the travels of the bike ride and soon the bus. This will be called the “Jolly Constitution”. A commencement video stating our goals and our set departure date will be on the website soon. Until that time, we will work on volunteer projects around Atlanta to start building a network of support. The goal of the JGIM endeavor is to help others and bring joy to the masses. A donation page will be available for those who like the idea and want to help. The website will also provide worldly exposure and free advertising for the companies and people that provide us work. The goal is also to find charities to promote and/or help. Another goal of the website is to find and report on people that are trying new ways to live and make our society a better place. The website will also report on our “Jolly Environment” as we find people and corporations that are trying to improve the environment. There will be a section for artists around the USA to put works up on the site. The bike ride will be the true heart of the business for it is the mobile unit to spread the word. A mapped route will be developed as we go, but the website will have an amazing interactive screen that shows where the bus is and where its headed. There will also be a blog that allows the followers to make suggestions. The main goal is to keep the movement going forward. The future bus will be gutted and renovated to become a mobile command center for the rest of the journey. It will have beds, a living area with computers, speakers for music, camping equipment, mountain bikes, road bikes, awnings for when stopped and a custom paint job. Most important is that the bus be environmentally fit with solar power and any other resources we can find. The back of the bus will be the core venture though shaved Hawaiian ice which will be sold out the emergency exit. We will need to research health and food service laws. Hopefully, the bus and our mission will promote goodwill and become one of the most respected sites on the internet..." Check out the Michael's JGIM site Michael Galardi's CopperStrings profilehttp://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=What_is_the_Jolly_Green_Ice_Machine%3f!&ArticleID=1596http://journals.copperstrings.com/UserConsole/ViewJournal.aspx?Title=What_is_the_Jolly_Green_Ice_Machine%3f!&ArticleID=1596#comments