Linda's Blogspot

The Mysterious 'Third State' Between Life and Death: A New Frontier in Science By Linda Dabo For centuries, we’ve understood life and death as a binary concept—either an organism is alive or it is not. However, new scientific research suggests that this long-held belief may be incomplete. In a recent article published in Popular Mechanics, Darren Orf explores groundbreaking studies that introduce a fascinating idea: a “third state” of existence that challenges our understanding of biology, consciousness, and even the nature of death itself. What Is the 'Third State' of Existence? Recent research has uncovered that, under certain conditions, cells within a dead organism can continue to function and even acquire new capabilities. This phenomenon, referred to as the "third state," suggests that cellular activity does not cease immediately upon an organism’s death but rather persists in unexpected ways. Scientists are now questioning whether cells have a form of a...

My  thoughts this morning were on the inner world within us, the power that animates our cells, and the stillness that allows us to tune into it. This “third state” of existence, as explored in recent scientific discoveries, invites us to reconsider not only life and death but also how we see and feel about ourselves as humans and how we perceive others. The Inner World Within Us If our cells continue to function, adapt, and even exhibit a kind of intelligence after we die, then what does that say about our existence while we are alive? It suggests that within us, at every moment, there is a deep intelligence at work—a silent, unseen power that sustains us. This aligns with ancient spiritual traditions that teach us to look inward for truth, wisdom, and healing. When we cultivate stillness, we begin to tune in to this intelligence. Meditation, deep breathing, and quiet reflection allow us to access the flow of life within us, much like how cells function harmoniously without our co...

Rebuilding the American Spirit: A Return to Integrity and Inner Strength It feels like the United States is trapped in a  culture that is deeply outward-oriented, always needing to consume.  But amidst all the noise and distraction, something is missing: a focus on the inner self. The Lack of Inner Nurturing American culture is constantly influencing us by external forces,  there’s little room for true inner reflection or growth. Our inner selves are not nurtured or cared for in a meaningful way.  Instead, we’re taught to purchase more. It’s all about outward performance, but very little is done to foster emotional and spiritual well-being. This imbalance is amplified by social approval. The explosion of social media and digital culture has turned every individual into a performer, curating their lives for an audience rather than living authentically. It is easy to forget that inner peace and self-reflection are not luxuries—they’re necessities. The Rise of Distracti...

Reconstructuring who we are as a country The level of division and hostility in the country right now is unsettling. It feels like everything has been weaponized—politics, media, even day-to-day conversations. Instead of finding common ground, people are being pushed further apart. I think it is best to stay low-key in this environment. There’s a lot of pressure to take sides, but at some point, the focus has to shift to healing and moving forward. The constant fighting doesn’t serve anyone. It just keeps the cycle of anger going. American culture is deeply outward-focused—on productivity, image, status, and consumption. There’s little emphasis on the inner self, on stillness, reflection, or true self-care. Instead, everything is a hustle, a transaction, or a performance. Clickbait culture thrives on outrage and division because it keeps people engaged. Many media outlets and politicians exploit this, feeding people narratives instead of real understanding. It’s not about truth—it’s ab...

  America’s Mental Civil War: Finding Common Ground in Reconstruction The United States is in the midst of a deep internal conflict—not a physical civil war, but a mental one. The country is divided on nearly every issue, with ideological battles raging across social, economic, and political lines. At the heart of this struggle is a fundamental question: how do we rebuild and govern in a way that truly serves the people? A Broken System: Waste, Corruption, and Economic Mismanagement Many Americans are appalled at the inefficiency and corruption within the government. For decades, policies have failed to prioritize the financial well-being of the country, and mismanagement has placed a disproportionate burden on taxpayers. One glaring example is tariffs. At one point in history, tariffs provided a significant source of government funding. Today, however, they account for only about 2% of revenue, leaving the majority of the financial weight on American taxpayers. Rather than operati...

  Rethinking the "Jungle": Unveiling Africa's Agroecology Beyond Colonial Stereotypes When we think of Africa through the lens of colonial literature, we are often confronted with the imagery of the "jungle" — a place of darkness, chaos, and mystery. Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is a prime example, where the African landscape is portrayed as a dense, threatening jungle that symbolizes the uncharted, savage realms of the human psyche. For decades, such representations have shaped Western perceptions of Africa as an untamed wilderness, a stark contrast to the "civilized" West. However, what has often been labeled as "jungle" was, in fact, a land rich with sophisticated systems of agroecology. The notion that Africa’s landscapes were wild, uncontrolled, or simply chaotic is a misconception that neglects the deep-rooted traditions of agricultural knowledge and land stewardship practiced by Indigenous communities for centuries. The Myth of th...

African Views on Forests: Sacred Spaces, Sustenance, and Spirituality For many African societies, forests were not just landscapes of dense vegetation but living, spiritual, and cultural spaces that played essential roles in daily life. Unlike the European colonial view that often saw forests as wild and untamed jungles to be conquered or exploited, Africans recognized forests as sources of life, knowledge, medicine, and connection to the spiritual world. 1. Forests as Sacred Spaces Many African cultures viewed forests as homes of the spirits, deities, and ancestors. These beliefs led to the protection of certain forest areas, which were regarded as sacred groves—off-limits for deforestation, farming, or hunting except under specific rituals. Examples of Sacred Forests in Africa: Osun Sacred Grove (Nigeria) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this forest in Yoruba tradition is dedicated to the goddess Osun, associated with fertility and healing. Kayas of the Mijikenda (Kenya) – The Mijiken...

 African Terms for Forests Africans had various indigenous names for forests, depending on their language, region, and cultural perspective. Unlike the European term "jungle," which often carried connotations of wildness and untamed chaos, African societies generally viewed forests as sacred, life-giving spaces. Examples of African Terms for Forests: 1. Central & West Africa (Bantu Languages) "Nkɔnkɔ" (Kikongo) – Refers to dense forested areas. "Igbo nkà" (Igbo, Nigeria) – A term for deep forests, often linked to spiritual practices. "Bush" or "Sacred Groves" (Akan, Yoruba, Igbo, and other West African groups) – Many African cultures had designated sacred forests, where ancestors were honored and medicinal plants were gathered. 2. East Africa (Swahili & Nilotic Languages) "Msitu" (Swahili) – The general term for forest, used along the East African coast. "Kibira" (Kirundi, Burundi) – Meaning forest, as in Kib...

Food Forests: A Sustainable Future Rooted in the Past Introduction Imagine stepping into a lush, green space where fruit and nut trees stretch above you, berry bushes thrive at eye level, and edible herbs and vegetables grow beneath your feet. This is a food forest, a thriving ecosystem designed to produce food while mimicking the natural structure of a forest. Unlike conventional agriculture, food forests are self-sustaining, requiring minimal human intervention once established. Rooted in permaculture principles, food forests are gaining popularity as a sustainable solution to food security, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. But this concept is far from new. For thousands of years, indigenous and traditional communities worldwide have cultivated food-producing ecosystems in harmony with nature. What is a Food Forest? A food forest is a multi-layered agricultural system designed to mimic the biodiversity and resilience of a natural forest. It consists of: 1. Canopy la...

  The Jungle: Nature’s Perfect Food Forest When we think of a jungle, we often picture a dense, untamed wilderness filled with towering trees, vibrant plant life, and the sounds of unseen creatures. But a jungle is more than just a wild place—it is a naturally occurring food forest, a thriving ecosystem that has sustained life for millennia. What is a Food Forest? A food forest is a system of food production that mimics the natural growth patterns of a forest. It consists of multiple layers of plants—tall canopy trees, understory trees, shrubs, vines, herbs, and ground cover—each playing a role in supporting biodiversity and sustainability. Unlike conventional agriculture, which often relies on single-crop farming, a food forest is self-sustaining and regenerative. The Jungle as a Food Forest Jungles are the ultimate food forests, offering an abundance of edible and medicinal plants, fruits, nuts, seeds, and fungi. Many indigenous communities have lived in harmony with jungles, har...

Cow Dung as Fertilizer: Traditional and Modern Uses Cow dung has been used as a natural fertilizer for centuries across many cultures, including African indigenous agricultural systems. It is valued for its ability to enrich the soil, improve crop yields, and sustain ecological balance. 1. Composition and Nutritional Benefits Cow dung is rich in organic matter and essential nutrients, making it a highly effective natural fertilizer. Key components include: Nitrogen (N) – Promotes leaf growth and chlorophyll production. Phosphorus (P) – Supports root development and flowering. Potassium (K) – Strengthens plant resistance to disease and drought. Beneficial Microorganisms – Helps in decomposing organic material and increasing soil fertility. Humus – Improves soil structure, aeration, and water retention. 2. Traditional Use in African Indigenous Agriculture Many African cultures incorporate cow dung into their farming practices as part of a spiritual and ecological approach to agriculture....

African Indigenous Agriculture  Many African indigenous cultures have long practiced spiritual agriculture, intertwining farming with rituals, prayers, and ecological wisdom. These traditions reflect a deep respect for the land, emphasizing the connection between the spiritual realm, ancestors, and agricultural cycles. Here are a few examples: 1. Dogon (Mali) The Dogon people practice agriculture deeply connected to their cosmology. They believe their agricultural knowledge was given to them by the Nommo, spiritual beings in their mythology. They hold agrarian ceremonies, including the Sigui festival (held every 60 years) to honor the land and the ancestors. They use sacred calendars based on the movements of Sirius to determine the best planting and harvesting times. 2. Yoruba (Nigeria, Benin, Togo) The Yoruba have Orisha-based agricultural rituals, particularly in honor of Orunmila (wisdom and divination) and Ogun (iron, tools, and farming). They offer sacrifices and libations be...

Kerala’s Indigenous Agriculture vs. Permaculture: A Deep Dive Comparison Both Kerala’s traditional agricultural practices and Permaculture focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and ecological balance. While Permaculture is a codified system influenced by indigenous farming worldwide, Kerala’s traditional methods evolved organically over centuries. Below is a detailed comparison of their origins, principles, techniques, and impact. 1. Origins & Philosophy Kerala Indigenous Agriculture Rooted in traditional Dravidian and Ayurvedic farming systems. Practices passed down generationally, often tied to spirituality and ecological balance. Influenced by Vedic agricultural practices, including concepts of soil health, water conservation, and seasonal farming. The indigenous knowledge is community-based and region-specific. Permaculture Developed in the 1970s by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in Australia. Inspired by natural ecosystems, indigenous farming systems, and regenerative desig...

  Permaculture and Kerala's indigenous agricultural practices Permaculture and Kerala's indigenous agricultural practices share many similarities, but they also have some key differences. While Permaculture as a formal design system was developed in the 1970s by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren, it drew inspiration from indigenous and traditional agricultural systems worldwide, including those found in India, Africa, and Asia. Kerala's indigenous farming likely contributed to the global knowledge pool that influenced Permaculture, though it was not explicitly cited in its early development. Similarities Between Kerala’s Indigenous Agriculture and Permaculture 1. Diverse, Multi-Layered Farming Kerala’s traditional farming integrates multi-tier cropping (coconut, banana, pepper, tubers) similar to Permaculture’s food forest concept. Both systems mimic natural ecosystems, ensuring biodiversity and resilience. 2. Water Conservation Kerala’s Surangam system (tunnel irrigation) a...

Kerala Agricultural Knowledge  Kerala has a rich tradition of indigenous agricultural knowledge passed down through generations, deeply connected to its environment, biodiversity, and climate patterns. Some key aspects of traditional farming practices in Kerala include: 1. Paddy Cultivation & Pokkali Farming Pokkali Rice Farming: A unique organic farming method practiced in coastal regions, where salt-tolerant rice varieties are grown in rotation with shrimp farming. Kaipad System: Another saline-resistant rice cultivation method in North Kerala, utilizing tidal flows for irrigation. 2. Integrated Farming Systems Kudumbashree & Home Gardens: Women-led community farming movements and homestead gardens (multi-tier cropping) ensure food security and sustainability. Kavu & Sacred Groves: Traditional forest patches near homes that preserve biodiversity and medicinal plants. 3. Traditional Irrigation Practices Surangam: A tunnel-based water harvesting system, similar to qanat...

Dinosaurs to Our Own Development: The Unraveling of Constructive Conversation Something is happening to us. Something that feels irreversible. We live in an age where information is abundant, where knowledge is no longer locked behind gates of privilege or education. If we want to learn, we can. If we seek understanding, it is there. And yet, something strange has taken hold: we no longer want to understand. Conversation—the foundation of human connection and progress—has become almost impossible. Attempts at dialogue quickly devolve into emotional battles, where no one listens, and no one learns. The exchange of ideas, once a sacred act of growth, is now a war of narratives, each side more interested in defending its position than seeking truth. Are We Dinosaurs to Our Own Development? It feels as though we are resisting our own evolution, standing still while the world around us demands that we grow. We have the tools to develop—intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually—but we ref...

The Age of Emotion: A Society on the Brink of Reason Something has happened to us. Something profound, unsettling, and, perhaps, irreversible. We are living in an era of unprecedented information access—a time when knowledge is at our fingertips, waiting to be explored, questioned, and understood. And yet, instead of embracing reason, many are choosing something else: an emotional state of existence where facts no longer matter, and anger reigns supreme. It is as if we have collectively agreed that being mad is more important than being informed. That feeling something—no matter how irrational—carries more weight than understanding something. We see this in our conversations, our politics, and even our daily interactions. The rise of social media, the 24-hour news cycle, and algorithm-driven content have created an ecosystem that thrives on outrage. And we, knowingly or unknowingly, have become its willing participants. Why Are We So Angry and Hateful? 1. Identity Over Truth – Many peo...

Exploring "Psychoblackology": Dr. Malachi Andrews' Study of Black Movement, Sports, Dance, and Soul Dr. Malachi Andrews was a pioneer in exploring the relationship between movement, culture, and identity. His groundbreaking book, Psychoblackology: Science of Black Movement, Sports, Dance, Soul, offers a profound analysis of how African-American physical expression is deeply rooted in cultural identity and history. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the key themes of Psychoblackology and its lasting impact. What is Psychoblackology? Dr. Andrews coined the term "psychoblackology" to describe the psychological, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of Black movement. His book examines how sports, dance, and other forms of physical activity are not just athletic pursuits but powerful expressions of African-American identity, resilience, and creativity. In traditional kinesiology studies, movement is often analyzed through a Eurocentric lens, focusing on mechanic...

The Chagga People: Masters of Sustainable Agriculture on the Slopes of Kilimanjaro Introduction For centuries, the Chagga people have cultivated the lush, fertile slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, transforming its rugged volcanic terrain into one of the most productive agricultural landscapes in Tanzania. Their innovative farming techniques, deep cultural traditions, and sophisticated land management systems have allowed them to thrive in harmony with nature. Long before modern concepts like permaculture emerged, the Chagga had already developed a sustainable agroforestry system that optimized food production while preserving soil fertility and biodiversity. This rich agricultural heritage is deeply intertwined with their history, social structures, and spiritual beliefs, making them one of the most resilient and self-sufficient communities in East Africa. A Brief History of the Chagga People The Chagga are a Bantu-speaking ethnic group whose origins trace back centuries. Their ancestors mi...