Linda's Blogspot

The Parasitic Mind: How Infectious Ideas Are Killing Common Sense In The Parasitic Mind, Dr. Gad Saad offers a scathing critique of the ideological movements that have begun to dominate modern thought, eroding rational discourse and individual freedom. Saad, an evolutionary psychologist, likens these ideologies to parasitic infections, which hijack the minds of individuals and societies, spreading irrationality and illogical thought across cultures. His book serves as both a diagnosis and a call to action, urging society to confront these "idea pathogens" before they wreak irreparable harm on our collective rationality. The Concept of Idea Pathogens At the heart of Saad's argument is the concept of "idea pathogens"—ideological viruses that spread through cultural institutions such as academia, the media, and political systems. These pathogens infect the minds of individuals, transforming their thinking from logical, evidence-based reasoning to emotional, irratio...

Empowering Education Through Audio Curriculum in Rural Liberia In rural Liberia, where many people do not read or write in English, traditional educational methods can be inaccessible. To address this, audio-based curriculum provides an innovative and inclusive approach to empower communities through education. By incorporating local languages, storytelling, and the wisdom of great leaders and thinkers, audio lessons can foster common sense, personal growth, and practical skills. The Power of Audio Curriculum Audio curriculum bridges the educational gap by using accessible technology and culturally relevant content. It delivers knowledge in a way that resonates with the community while addressing practical and philosophical aspects of life. Steps to Create an Enriched Audio Curriculum 1. Understand Community Needs Collaborate with local communities to identify their priorities. Topics can include health, agriculture, financial literacy, language skills, and moral values. 2. Incorporate...

  The Lost Art of Empathy in a Divisive World In a world increasingly filled with noise, divisive rhetoric, and rapid-fire opinions, the quiet power of empathy feels like a lost art. As the holiday season reminds us to reflect on love, kindness, and community, it also highlights how far we’ve drifted from practicing true understanding. The tragic incidemt of a homeless woman burned alive on an F train at the last stop in Coney Island, just a day before Christmas. This horrific act serves as a grim reminder of society’s failure to protect its most vulnerable members. Instead of being a season of compassion and renewal, the holidays often underscore the stark realities many face. These events challenge us to pause, reflect, and question whether empathy—a cornerstone of human connection—is still present in our daily lives. Empathy is neither loud nor boastful. It doesn’t seek validation or applause. It is quiet, patient, and deeply rooted in listening and understanding. Yet, in today’...

  Faith’s Whisper Speak softly to the winds of time, Declare your truth; the stars will climb. A word once spoken, deeply believed, Will echo forth, and be received. Beneath the skies, old Abraham stood, His heart held promises misunderstood. Yet faith was his, though none could see, The nations born from destiny. A woman wept, her heart grown tired, Her touch of faith was all required. The hem she grasped, her spirit soared, And healing came, her faith restored. Creation's dawn, with whispers clear, “Let there be light,” and light drew near. The unseen answered, bold and true, A world created fresh and new. So hold your dreams with steadfast might, Believe in them through day and night. For faith, unseen, will guide your way, And turn the dark to brightest day.

When I read a book in Kindle and want a part elaborated I will cut and paste that part into ChatGPT.  ChatGPT clarifies the text for me. I can then cut and paste the response into my blogspot. I  am reading a book by Joseph Murphy he is considered to be a New Thought author and educator. He was influenced by Abdullah the Black Mystic from Ethiopia.. THE TEXT PROMPT ENTERED BIBLICAL ACCOUNTS OF THE USE OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS POWERS What things soever ye desire, when ye pray believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. MARK 11:24. Note the difference in tenses. The inspired writer tells us to believe and accept as true the fact that our desire has already been accomplished and fulfilled, that it is already completed, and that its realization will follow as a thing in the future. THE TEXT - CHATGPT'S RESPONSE The passage from Mark 11:24 highlights a key principle often associated with faith and the power of belief: the act of trusting in the unseen and accepting a desired o...

 A Flame That Should Not Burn On a subway train beneath the city’s roar, Two lives collided, broken and poor. A homeless woman, lost and frail, A migrant man with his own sad tale. From a shelter’s shadow, he came in despair, Haunted by anger too heavy to bear. In an act so cruel, a fire was lit, A life consumed, the world unfit. But what does this say of the world we’ve made, Where pain runs deep, and kindness fades? Where the homeless wander with nowhere to go, And anger festers in hearts laid low? This season calls for a different light, A love that heals, a hope that’s bright. Not flames of hate, but hands that mend, A warmth of mercy we all must send. Christ taught love for every soul, The hurting, the lost, the broken whole. Let this tragedy spark not despair, But a call to act, to truly care.

 The Kwanzaa Film Festival was started by Ina Norris. It holds Film Festivals and other cultural activities throughout the year; Black history month, and Juneteenth. The festivities are about sharing experiences thru panels, art exhibits, etc.  I have been working on a research project for a Wikipedia article about life in New York City before television. I was amazed to discover how local entertainment was. There were hundreds of small theaters and venues. In the process of reading and researching I discovered what has been lost. Most of the culture that we Americans consume is outside of our local communities and activities that are not initiated by people in the communities. It is as though we don't know what we have lost.  I studied filmmaking when I was in college, before Spike Lee. Independent films were not seen or very rare if they did exist. There were very few Independent films screened. In fact people back then dreamed of what we see today. This why I su...

The Power of Local Storytelling: Supporting the Kwanzaa Film Festival In the heart of New York City, the Kwanzaa Film Festival, founded by Ina Norris, stands as a beacon of creativity and cultural celebration. With its roots deeply entrenched in the African American and African Diaspora communities, the festival has become a vital platform for independent filmmakers, youth, and elders to share their stories. In an era where much of the culture Americans consume is dictated by external influences, this festival brings us back to the essence of local storytelling—a practice that once defined our communities but has been largely lost to time. Reviving the Spirit of Local Entertainment Before the advent of television, New York City was a hub of local entertainment, boasting hundreds of small theaters and venues. These spaces were the lifeblood of the community, offering opportunities for storytelling, performance, and connection. As a researcher delving into life before television, I’ve co...

                     Holiday Greeting As this special season surrounds us, may we pause to find joy in the simple things: A smile exchanged, a quiet moment, the warmth of shared laughter, and the light of kindness in our hearts. Take a moment to think of all there is to be grateful for—the little blessings that weave the fabric of our days. Let gratitude guide your thoughts and joy lift your spirit. Wishing you a season filled with peace, love, and countless reasons to smile. Happy Holidays!

The Bright Side of Social Media: How It’s Helping Us Build Better Habits In an age of rising healthcare costs and endless debates about the impact of social media, one thing is often overlooked: the incredible value of these platforms for fostering self-care and lifelong learning. While critics are quick to point out the pitfalls of social media, its ability to democratize health knowledge, promote cultural exchange, and provide educational resources deserves more attention. Health and Wellness Every day, people encounter posts and videos that encourage healthier living—whether it’s reminders to stay hydrated, guided meditation sessions, or fitness challenges. These small nudges can transform into habits that prevent illness and promote mental clarity. Cultural Enrichment Social media also brings us closer to other cultures. Through short videos, reels, and blogs, we gain insights into the traditions, foods, and histories of communities worldwide, fostering understanding and curiosity....

Lila’s Wiki Adventure: From Curiosity to Community Impact Lila’s journey with the Wiki platforms didn’t just change her—it transformed her neighborhood. After learning and contributing, she became an advocate for spreading knowledge and inspiring others to do the same. A Spark in the Community One evening, Lila attended a local town hall meeting about preserving the neighborhood’s history. She shared her experience of adding photos and details to Wikipedia articles. “Imagine if we all worked together to document our community,” she said. “Our stories and landmarks could be shared with the world!” Her enthusiasm caught on. A group of neighbors, including local teachers, artists, and retirees, decided to form a “Wiki Club” to document the history and culture of their community. The Wiki Club Projects 1. Preserving Local History on Wikipedia The group started by researching notable figures from the area and writing detailed Wikipedia articles. Lila led workshops to teach others how to edi...

Lila’s Wiki Adventure: A Journey of Learning and Sharing Lila sat at her laptop, staring at the blank screen. She wanted to plan a trip, learn a new skill, and create something meaningful—but she didn’t know where to start. Then she remembered a suggestion from a friend: “Why not try Wikipedia and its sister projects? They’re full of resources!” Intrigued, Lila typed "WikiVoyage" into her browser and discovered a treasure trove of travel guides written by volunteers worldwide. She’d been dreaming of visiting Peru, and the detailed itinerary on WikiVoyage covered everything: the best time to visit Machu Picchu, local cuisine to try, and even safety tips for solo travelers. Excitement bubbled up as she bookmarked her plan. Next, she wandered over to WikiVersity. Lila had always wanted to learn photography but felt intimidated by formal courses. To her surprise, she found a beginner’s guide to digital photography, complete with tutorials and exercises. She grabbed her camera and...

The Power of Words: From Thought to Action In a world brimming with noise and endless streams of communication, the art of speaking with intention often gets lost. Yet, tradition reminds us that words carry a weight far greater than their surface meanings. "The perfect word is the word realized in action" is more than a phrase—it is a call to mindfulness, excellence, and responsibility in communication. The Weight of Words Words are not merely tools for expression; they are seeds of potential, capable of shaping thoughts, emotions, and, ultimately, actions. Every word spoken holds the power to inspire, heal, motivate, or The Power of Words: From Thought to Action , precision, and purpose. It requires discernment, patience, and a commitment to solutions rather than contributing to the cacophony of unproductive discourse. Excellence is cultivated by asking key questions: Does what I say bring value to the conversation? Is this word, sentence, or idea constructive? Will my speec...

Emancipation Park: A Symbol of Freedom and Resilience in Houston, Texas Emancipation Park, located in Houston’s historic Third Ward, is a cornerstone of African American heritage and a testament to the enduring spirit of freedom and community. Established in 1872 by formerly enslaved African Americans, the park remains a vibrant cultural and historical landmark, serving as a place of celebration, education, and unity. Origins and Founding The story of Emancipation Park begins with a group of visionary leaders: Reverend Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock, and Elias Dibble. In the aftermath of the Civil War, these men led an effort to secure a space where African Americans could gather freely and commemorate Juneteenth, the day on June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom. Pooling $800, a significant sum at the time, the group purchased 10 acres of land in Houston. This area became Emancipation Park, named to honor the liberation of African America...

Awakening to Authentic Love: Insights from Anthony de Mello's The Way to Love Anthony de Mello's The Way to Love is a timeless exploration of love, awareness, and the path to inner freedom. Through a series of meditative reflections, de Mello challenges readers to question their assumptions about love, happiness, and the self, offering a transformative guide to living with greater clarity and authenticity. Awareness as the Foundation of Love At the heart of de Mello's teachings is the idea that love arises from awareness. He argues that authentic love cannot coexist with ignorance of our inner world. By cultivating mindfulness and observing our thoughts, emotions, and actions without judgment, we begin to dismantle the illusions that prevent us from truly loving ourselves and others. Freedom from Attachments De Mello highlights the detrimental effects of attachments—whether to people, possessions, or outcomes—on our ability to love freely. He suggests that attachments bind ...

Understanding the Backlash Against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): A Reflection on Race and Privilege The phrase “When you’re accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression” has gained traction in conversations about race, privilege, and systemic inequality. It highlights an uncomfortable truth: efforts to achieve equity can feel threatening to those who have long benefited from historical advantages. This dynamic is particularly evident in the backlash against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, especially when it comes to Black professionals. What is DEI? DEI programs aim to address historical inequities by fostering environments that are inclusive and equitable. These initiatives strive to create opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women, people of color, and individuals from marginalized communities. While DEI is often celebrated as a step toward fairness, it has also faced significant criticism, particularly in media and online spa...

Feminism, Patriarchy, and the Forgotten Stories of Working-Class Men As a baby boomer, I’ve watched the evolution of feminism over the decades. The feminist movements of today, while powerful often leave me puzzled. The narratives I hear sometimes seem to exist in a bubble, disconnected from the realities I witnessed growing up in a tight-knit, working-class, Black community. My father was a blue-collar laborer, as were many of the men I knew. These men had trades and skills—electricians, mechanics, carpenters, and factory workers. They weren’t patriarchs in the way feminism often portrays men today. They were providers, doing backbreaking work in coal mines, construction sites, and factories to feed their families. Their lives weren’t defined by domination but by sacrifice. These men endured systemic racism, workplace exploitation, and societal disrespect daily. Yet, they pressed on because, for them, pride in being a man was secondary to ensuring their families were safe, fed, and st...

Why Am I Just Getting This? Setting: A modest living room with a worn but cozy armchair. A 70-year-old Black woman, Eloise, sits in the chair, her knitting resting on her lap. A lamp casts a warm glow as she speaks to herself, her voice a mix of frustration, sadness, and clarity. ELOISE: Why am I just getting this? Seventy years of living... and I’m just now piecing it together. All this time—walking through life, following rules I didn’t even know existed. And not just rules, no. Laws. Laws that claim to govern me, guide me. But how can I follow something I’ve never seen? Never touched? It’s like living in a trap... A trap where the walls are invisible, but you keep bumping into them, bruising yourself. And every time you fall, someone stands there wagging their finger, saying, “You should’ve known better.” But how was I supposed to know? Who told me? Who showed me? I didn’t see no manual handed out at birth. And yet, here I am, held accountable—like everyone else— by rules whispered ...

Senegal horse - drawn carts In Senegal, horse-drawn carts remain a vital part of daily life, particularly in rural areas and smaller towns. These carts, locally known as "charrettes", are used for various purposes, from transporting goods and agricultural produce to serving as a primary mode of personal transportation. Cultural and Economic Importance The use of horse-drawn carts in Senegal highlights the country's blend of traditional practices and modern needs. While urban centers like Dakar have embraced motorized vehicles, charrettes are more affordable and accessible for many in rural communities. They require no fuel, making them an economical and sustainable option in regions where resources might be limited. Agricultural Connection In Senegal’s agricultural sector, horse-drawn carts are indispensable. Farmers use them to carry harvested crops, water, and supplies between fields and markets. Their adaptability to rugged terrain makes them ideal for navigating areas...

The Perils of Living Under Unknown Laws Living under laws that are unknown or inaccessible to the governed is a profound injustice that undermines the principles of equality, fairness, and self-determination. When laws are obscure or known only to an elite few, the very foundation of justice crumbles, leading to a society where individuals are subjected to arbitrary power rather than participating in their governance. The Necessity of Legal Transparency At the heart of any democratic or just society lies the principle of transparency. Laws are meant to serve as guidelines for behavior, setting boundaries and ensuring order. However, when these rules are not clearly communicated to the public, individuals cannot conform to them, nor can they protect themselves from misuse or misinterpretation. This ignorance creates a power imbalance, favoring those who possess legal knowledge over those who do not. The Role of Education and Accessibility The accessibility of legal knowledge is crucial ...

Cobblestones Were Ideal for Horses Cobblestone streets in urban areas were  designed with horses in mind! These streets served practical purposes during the era when horses were the primary mode of transportation for people and goods. Here’s how cobblestone streets connected to the needs of horses: Why Cobblestones Were Ideal for Horses 1. Durability and Traction: Cobblestones provided a durable and long-lasting surface that could withstand the wear and tear of horse hooves and iron-shod wheels of carriages. The uneven texture of cobblestones offered better traction for horses, particularly in wet or muddy conditions, compared to dirt roads. 2. Drainage: Cobblestones allowed rainwater to drain easily between the stones, preventing large puddles and reducing the risk of horses slipping on waterlogged roads. 3. Maintenance: Cobblestone streets were easier to repair. Individual stones could be replaced without needing to reconstruct an entire road, which was convenient given the heavy...

How Horses Shaped the Modern World Horses have been one of humanity’s most transformative companions, playing an essential role in shaping agriculture, transportation, warfare, and even culture. Their versatility and strength allowed societies to grow and thrive, paving the way for the modern world. Horses and Agriculture The domestication of horses revolutionized farming practices, particularly with the advent of the horse collar in the Middle Ages. This innovation allowed horses to pull plows and other heavy equipment more efficiently without injury. With their speed and strength, horses outperformed oxen, making agricultural work faster and more productive. This increase in efficiency contributed to food surpluses, population growth, and economic development. Additionally, horses were crucial for transporting goods from farms to markets. By facilitating the movement of produce, they supported local economies and connected rural areas to urban centers, fostering early trade networks....

The Social Security "Notch" and Its Impact on African Americans The Social Security "Notch" refers to a period during which individuals born between 1917 and 1921 received reduced Social Security benefits compared to those born before or after them. This issue arose from legislative adjustments made in the 1970s to correct overcompensation in benefit calculations caused by inflation. While the "Notch" itself was not explicitly racial, its consequences disproportionately affected African Americans due to systemic inequalities and historical exclusions from economic opportunities. What Was the Social Security "Notch"? In the early 1970s, Congress introduced automatic cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to Social Security benefits to keep pace with inflation. However, a flaw in the formula caused benefits to increase faster than intended. To correct this, Congress passed legislation in 1977 that created a new formula for calculating benefits. This adj...

Rejoice Inside Humble thyself, oh wandering soul, Release the weight of being whole, For the need to be right can blind your view, From the vastness of life that surrounds you. The universe swells beyond your pride, A boundless expanse where wonders reside. The ocean, its depths a secret profound, The rivers, unending, on journeys unbound. Step back from the narrow, the ego's domain, And let go of the need to stake your claim. See the beauty of life, of nature, of God, Marvel at creation, give thanks, and applaud. The human afflictions—cast them away, Like fleeting flies that darken your day. Don’t let their shadows dominate your soul, Rise above, reclaim control. Rejoice in your temple, divine and serene, A place of stillness where grace is seen. Count the blessings, the beauty, the light, Merge with the truth of day and night. Humble thyself and you shall see, The world is more than you or me. In surrender, you'll find life's sweetest part— The boundless expanse of a humb...

  Langston Hughes' poem "Harlem" is a poignant reflection on the frustration and consequences of unfulfilled dreams, particularly in the context of racial inequality and societal oppression. The central question of the poem is: "What happens to a dream deferred?" It offers vivid and visceral imagery to explore the possible outcomes of postponing or denying one's aspirations. The poem asks if a deferred dream: Dries up like a raisin in the sun, Festers like a sore, Stinks like rotten meat, Crusts over like a syrupy sweet, Or sags like a heavy load. The final line—"Or does it explode?"—is a powerful and chilling suggestion of the potential for social unrest and destruction when dreams are systematically delayed or denied. The poem speaks not only to individual longing but also to collective struggles, making it a cornerstone of the Harlem Renaissance and a timeless commentary on the human condition. Would you like to explore the themes further or dis...

Monologue: "Dreams They Carried" (A dimly lit Dreams They Carried. A single spotlight shines on a person seated in an old armchair. They hold a small photo album, occasionally glancing at it as they speak.) You ever wonder what your parents dreamed about? Not the everyday stuff—paying bills, putting food on the table—but the real dreams. The ones they whispered to themselves when the house was quiet. When no one was watching. I think about that sometimes. My father, sitting at the edge of his bed after a long day, the lines on his face like the folds of a map. Did he dream of places he never got to go? Or was he too tired to dream at all?  And my mother—her hands always busy, cooking, cleaning, mending. Did she dream of something bigger? Or maybe something simpler, like a moment to just... be? I never asked. Isn’t that strange? We spend so much time in their shadow, but we never think to ask, What did you want? What did you hope for? (Slowly rises, pacing.) Langston Hughes wr...

The Dreams We Hold: Reflecting on Our Parents' Aspirations and Realities Langston Hughes' timeless poem "Harlem"—with its central question, "What happens to a dream deferred?"—invites us to consider the profound impact of unfulfilled dreams. It brings to mind a universal experience: the gap between our dreams and the reality we face.  For many, this question is not just academic; it’s deeply personal. We may wonder about our own dreams and, just as importantly, the dreams of our parents.  What were their aspirations?  Did they achieve them?  Did they reconcile their dreams with the realities of their lives?  Were they satisfied with what they had accomplished by the end? As we reflect on our parents’ lives, we often come to realize that their dreams—like ours—were shaped by the circumstances in which they lived. Economic realities, social expectations, family responsibilities, and personal desires all influence the trajectory of one’s aspirations.  For many...