A young Yngwie performing with Alcatrazz in this very rare and old video ...
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
More 'The Ridiculous & The Sublime'!
Police 'Steal' Valuables From Cars in a Lesson for Drivers
'Police are taking valuables from unlocked cars to teach drivers to be more careful. Motorists have been returning to vehicles to find that handbags, laptops and sat-navs have been replaced with a note telling them they can retrieve their belongings from a police station.'
Read more...
'Police are taking valuables from unlocked cars to teach drivers to be more careful. Motorists have been returning to vehicles to find that handbags, laptops and sat-navs have been replaced with a note telling them they can retrieve their belongings from a police station.'
Read more...
A Night Off!
We will be taking a long earned rest on Monday 31st August 2009! So don't expect the usual 'deluge' of posts on that day. I will be 'catching up' with a live performance I'd never had the opportunity to see in the UK. Therefore ... the A Light In The Darkness desk will not be manned on that night.
Putting Yourself First
We have all heard the instructions of an airline attendant reminding us to put on our own oxygen mask before we help anyone else with theirs. This advice is often cited as a metaphor for self-care because it so accurately expresses why it is important. It seems to say, ironically, that if you can’t take care of yourself for yourself, do it for others. Few situations in our daily lives mimic the wake-up call of an airplane emergency, so it’s easy to keep putting self-care off—easy, that is, until we get sick, overwhelmed, or exhausted, and suddenly don’t have the energy to care for the people who count on us.
That’s when we realize we haven’t been getting the oxygen we need to sustain ourselves. We begin to understand that taking care of ourselves is neither selfish nor indulgent; it’s just plain practical. Putting yourself first means that it may be necessary to say no to someone else in order to say yes to yourself. For many of us, there is always something we feel we could be doing for someone else, and it helps to remember the oxygen metaphor. You can even encourage yourself by saying "I am caring for myself so that I am better able to care for others" or some other mantra that will encourage you. It also helps to remember that self-care doesn’t have to be composed of massively time-consuming acts. In fact, the best prescription for taking care of yourself is probably small, daily rituals; for example, taking one half-hour for yourself at the beginning and end of the day to meditate, journal, or just be. You might also transform the occasional daily shower or bath into a half-hour self-pampering session. Whatever you decide, making some small gesture where you put yourself first every day will pay off in spades for you and the ones you love. The oxygen you need is all around you; sometimes you just need to be reminded to breathe.
That’s when we realize we haven’t been getting the oxygen we need to sustain ourselves. We begin to understand that taking care of ourselves is neither selfish nor indulgent; it’s just plain practical. Putting yourself first means that it may be necessary to say no to someone else in order to say yes to yourself. For many of us, there is always something we feel we could be doing for someone else, and it helps to remember the oxygen metaphor. You can even encourage yourself by saying "I am caring for myself so that I am better able to care for others" or some other mantra that will encourage you. It also helps to remember that self-care doesn’t have to be composed of massively time-consuming acts. In fact, the best prescription for taking care of yourself is probably small, daily rituals; for example, taking one half-hour for yourself at the beginning and end of the day to meditate, journal, or just be. You might also transform the occasional daily shower or bath into a half-hour self-pampering session. Whatever you decide, making some small gesture where you put yourself first every day will pay off in spades for you and the ones you love. The oxygen you need is all around you; sometimes you just need to be reminded to breathe.
"Humans Predicted to Make Contact with an ET Civilization Within Two Decades"
Source: Daily Galaxy
That's 500 billion planets out there, and bear in mind there are 100 billion other galaxies. To think this [the Earth] is the only place where anything interesting is happening, you have got to be really audacious to take that point of view."
Seth Shostak, SETI senior astronomer
Some leading astronomers are quite confident that mankind will make contact with intelligent alien life within two decades. The search for extraterrestrial life will leap forward next year when NASA launches the Kepler space telescope. The instrument will be constantly scanning the same 100,000 stars over its four-year mission with the exciting objective of discovering Earth-sized planets in the habitable zones around suns.
This will allow SETI to home in on where the odds of life are possibly greatest. Currently, SETI’s mission to find life on other planets is like trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack. But now, whenever Kepler identifies planets most likely to sustain life, the team at SETI will be able to focus in on those solar systems using deep-space listening equipment. This will be a huge upgrade from their present work of randomly scanning the outer reaches of space for some kind of sign or signal. Also, upping the ante, is the recent discovery of Earth-like planets outside our solar system, which has led astrophysicists to conclude that Earth-like planets are likely relatively common in our galaxy.
"Everything has caused us to become more optimistic," said American astrophysicist Dr Frank Drake in a recent BBC documentary. "We really believe that in the next 20 years or so, we are going to learn a great deal more about life beyond Earth and very likely we will have detected that life and perhaps even intelligent life elsewhere in the galaxy."
However, some astrophysicists have warned that we humans may be blinded by our familiarity with carbon and Earthlike conditions. In other words, what we’re looking for may not even lie in our version of a “sweet spot”. After all, even here on Earth, one species “sweet spot” is another’s species worst nightmare. In any case, it is not beyond the realm of feasibility that our first encounter with extraterrestrial life will not be a solely carbon-based occasion.
Seth Shostak, SETI senior astronomer
Some leading astronomers are quite confident that mankind will make contact with intelligent alien life within two decades. The search for extraterrestrial life will leap forward next year when NASA launches the Kepler space telescope. The instrument will be constantly scanning the same 100,000 stars over its four-year mission with the exciting objective of discovering Earth-sized planets in the habitable zones around suns.This will allow SETI to home in on where the odds of life are possibly greatest. Currently, SETI’s mission to find life on other planets is like trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack. But now, whenever Kepler identifies planets most likely to sustain life, the team at SETI will be able to focus in on those solar systems using deep-space listening equipment. This will be a huge upgrade from their present work of randomly scanning the outer reaches of space for some kind of sign or signal. Also, upping the ante, is the recent discovery of Earth-like planets outside our solar system, which has led astrophysicists to conclude that Earth-like planets are likely relatively common in our galaxy.
"Everything has caused us to become more optimistic," said American astrophysicist Dr Frank Drake in a recent BBC documentary. "We really believe that in the next 20 years or so, we are going to learn a great deal more about life beyond Earth and very likely we will have detected that life and perhaps even intelligent life elsewhere in the galaxy."
However, some astrophysicists have warned that we humans may be blinded by our familiarity with carbon and Earthlike conditions. In other words, what we’re looking for may not even lie in our version of a “sweet spot”. After all, even here on Earth, one species “sweet spot” is another’s species worst nightmare. In any case, it is not beyond the realm of feasibility that our first encounter with extraterrestrial life will not be a solely carbon-based occasion.
Occult & Conspiracy Reference Library ... and more
Since its conception in late 2006 "A Light In The Darkness" has been intended as a reference library for most things 'Occult' ... an extensive subject ...
We feel this intended goal has been achieved. Initially it was for personal reasons. To have everything to hand in one place on the 'WWW Seas' ... instead of having to constantly search for occultic reference material. Thus we have added hundreds of links; articles; things of special interest; the works. With the theme extended slightly to report current affairs stories for prosperity. Music was also added as music can be deemed part and parcel of the entire occult thing. Our world revolves around the 5 senses and music is the thing which inspires and uplifts (as well as being another of the tools that can be used to imprison us!).
Throughout this period we've received wondrous words of encouragement from all over the world ... all thanking us for the extensive resource which is 'ALITD'. It has been nice to know that others have gained from this intended goal too.
We intend to continue in this task for the foreseeable future anyway. The main obstacle is finding the time (and the resources) ...
Over the years a pretty extensive Index has been built up which can be seen on the right hand side of the page. Ok, it doesn't cover everything here, but it is a start. It covers most of the common themes relating to The Occult and Conspiracy Theories. We will add new categories in time, plus it is intended to overhaul the existing categories to make them more 'user friendly'.
It came as quite a surprise to have notched up 10,000 posts recently! Time flies ... many more posts will be added ... thanks to those who regularly visit this area of the internet. Your interest is appreciated. Thanks once again to the many who communicate with us. This is also appreciated. Apologies to those who don't get replies ... we're only human and humans are limited by time! --- MJ
We feel this intended goal has been achieved. Initially it was for personal reasons. To have everything to hand in one place on the 'WWW Seas' ... instead of having to constantly search for occultic reference material. Thus we have added hundreds of links; articles; things of special interest; the works. With the theme extended slightly to report current affairs stories for prosperity. Music was also added as music can be deemed part and parcel of the entire occult thing. Our world revolves around the 5 senses and music is the thing which inspires and uplifts (as well as being another of the tools that can be used to imprison us!).Throughout this period we've received wondrous words of encouragement from all over the world ... all thanking us for the extensive resource which is 'ALITD'. It has been nice to know that others have gained from this intended goal too.
We intend to continue in this task for the foreseeable future anyway. The main obstacle is finding the time (and the resources) ...
Over the years a pretty extensive Index has been built up which can be seen on the right hand side of the page. Ok, it doesn't cover everything here, but it is a start. It covers most of the common themes relating to The Occult and Conspiracy Theories. We will add new categories in time, plus it is intended to overhaul the existing categories to make them more 'user friendly'.
It came as quite a surprise to have notched up 10,000 posts recently! Time flies ... many more posts will be added ... thanks to those who regularly visit this area of the internet. Your interest is appreciated. Thanks once again to the many who communicate with us. This is also appreciated. Apologies to those who don't get replies ... we're only human and humans are limited by time! --- MJ
Thoughts For Today
“The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.” -- Oliver Wendell Holmes
“We can learn to be the catalysts for our own change.” -- Sarah Ban Breathnach
“We can learn to be the catalysts for our own change.” -- Sarah Ban Breathnach
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
ABRAHADABRA: Some Thoughts on The Word
Source: Hermetic.com
ABRAHADABRA is the Word of the Aeon of Crowley’s Thelema. However, despite his choice of spellings, (there are several), and some of the additional baggage that Crowley carries into esoteric circles, his thoughts on this word are worth consideration.
Abrahadabra is translated by G. Davidson as “I bless the dead”, is one of the three Holy Names used when blessing a sword (Clavicus Solomonos?), Davidson also states that it is derived from the Hebrew “ha brachah dabarah” or “Speak the blessing”. It is used as an amulet to heal and ward off evil. When chanted, it is reduced letter by letter.
He further suggests a relationship between it and an older Gnostic ‘diety’ Abraxas, or “the supreme unknown, and source of the 365 emanations of Persian theology. It is also found in several Hebrew magical and mystical texts, including, The Sword of Moses, and The Book of the Angel Raziel. In gnostic theology, it is used as a term for god, or as a mediator between creation and the godhead.
Crowley spells it so that it adds up to 418 in gematria (19 x 22), or 22 using the “Qabala of Nine Chambers”. Several formulae are worked out to show hidden meanings and relationships between the letters, of which the most important appear to be its suggestion of ‘double power’ or effecting both the Pentagram and Hexagram; and giving the Rosicrucian axiom of “Light, Life, and Love” in numerological expression.
As symbol of ‘double power’ or the unity of the Pentagram and Hexagram, Abrahadabra symbolizes the “mystical marriage” of the micro and macrocosms. The Inner and Outer Worlds
It can be said, that Abrahadabra, is the Sacred Word invoking the Union of the Higher and Lower Worlds in the student. If this is done correctly, then we can move from being a student to the level of an adept on the level of interior initiation.
This idea of it being a combination of the micro and macro-cosmic forces is reminiscent of the phrase in The Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram which says, “About me Flames the Pentagram, and in the Middle of the Pillar Shines the Six Rayed Star!”
Here, in the body and psyche of the student, the Elemental and planetary forces are combined and equilibrated. It is important to note though, that the meaning of the letters may change depending on the level they are being vibrated on. This would differ from person to person, but is worthy of mention. As noted, the astrological associations and meanings of the Hebrew letters can ‘shift’ depending on whether they are affecting the world of Assiah, Yetzirah, Briah, or Atzilooth
As triple invocation of Light, Life, and Love, the Word reminds of the three principle expressions of the Cosmos. When combined, they give is a fourth and fifth point, that of Law and Liberty. By understanding and seeking Life, Light, and Love in creation, we can get a grasp on Cosmic Law, which in turn, is the source of our personal freedom from the negative aspects of karma, or the means of our liberation from the bondage of matter and restriction.
As mediator Abrahadabra suggests that while humanity is Divinity incarnate, ‘There is no God but Man, and Man is the Son of God. God is Man,’ that we experience this in progressive steps or degrees of expanding (and as such, inclusive) consciousness. We may be Divine, but the leap from mundane earthly consciousness to the Cosmic awareness of Kether is extremely radical, and would shatter our vehicles of perception. Instead, we progress slowly and with the aid of various ‘mediators’ to assist us.
Among these mediators are the tools we use, be it ritual, symbols, alchemy, or even actual beings, such as teachers and invisible helpers from the ‘other side’. Abrahadabra symbolizes the harmonization of our inner and outer worlds, in the realm of Tiphareth, and how we can open up to this powerful, but often unseen assistance. Regular and daily use of a ritual, such as the Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram, or the Greater Ritual of the Pentagram, stabilize our “Elemental” nature and allow the forces of Yetzirah to more greatly penetrate our sometimes thick veils of matter.
Through daily prayer and meditation, we slowly and progressively make this once thick barrier more transparent, until once day, we have a flash of awareness, an awakening that helps us realize what is meant by, “About me flames the pentagram, and in the Middle of the Pillar Shines the Six rayed star!”
When the “Little King” of Malkooth, the Pentagram, surrenders to the “Big King” of Tiphareth (the Hexagram) the two are united and the “Mystical Marriage” is initiated within us.
To this end, we can use the word itself as a kind of mantra, or affirmation of this state. By vibrating it as a sacred word of power, we can redeem it from the psuedo-magical connotations that have befallen it, back to its original potency of Divine expression. As mediator, the redemptive qualities, almost messianic in nature, are more clearly understood. When we vibrate this name, we should feel and imagine that the higher and lower worlds are coming into union within us, and that we stand at the center of the world, expressing the powers of Tiphareth. As though through its sound we are bestowing a blessing across creation.
Abrahadabra is translated by G. Davidson as “I bless the dead”, is one of the three Holy Names used when blessing a sword (Clavicus Solomonos?), Davidson also states that it is derived from the Hebrew “ha brachah dabarah” or “Speak the blessing”. It is used as an amulet to heal and ward off evil. When chanted, it is reduced letter by letter.He further suggests a relationship between it and an older Gnostic ‘diety’ Abraxas, or “the supreme unknown, and source of the 365 emanations of Persian theology. It is also found in several Hebrew magical and mystical texts, including, The Sword of Moses, and The Book of the Angel Raziel. In gnostic theology, it is used as a term for god, or as a mediator between creation and the godhead.
Crowley spells it so that it adds up to 418 in gematria (19 x 22), or 22 using the “Qabala of Nine Chambers”. Several formulae are worked out to show hidden meanings and relationships between the letters, of which the most important appear to be its suggestion of ‘double power’ or effecting both the Pentagram and Hexagram; and giving the Rosicrucian axiom of “Light, Life, and Love” in numerological expression.
As symbol of ‘double power’ or the unity of the Pentagram and Hexagram, Abrahadabra symbolizes the “mystical marriage” of the micro and macrocosms. The Inner and Outer Worlds
It can be said, that Abrahadabra, is the Sacred Word invoking the Union of the Higher and Lower Worlds in the student. If this is done correctly, then we can move from being a student to the level of an adept on the level of interior initiation.
This idea of it being a combination of the micro and macro-cosmic forces is reminiscent of the phrase in The Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram which says, “About me Flames the Pentagram, and in the Middle of the Pillar Shines the Six Rayed Star!”
Here, in the body and psyche of the student, the Elemental and planetary forces are combined and equilibrated. It is important to note though, that the meaning of the letters may change depending on the level they are being vibrated on. This would differ from person to person, but is worthy of mention. As noted, the astrological associations and meanings of the Hebrew letters can ‘shift’ depending on whether they are affecting the world of Assiah, Yetzirah, Briah, or Atzilooth
As triple invocation of Light, Life, and Love, the Word reminds of the three principle expressions of the Cosmos. When combined, they give is a fourth and fifth point, that of Law and Liberty. By understanding and seeking Life, Light, and Love in creation, we can get a grasp on Cosmic Law, which in turn, is the source of our personal freedom from the negative aspects of karma, or the means of our liberation from the bondage of matter and restriction.
As mediator Abrahadabra suggests that while humanity is Divinity incarnate, ‘There is no God but Man, and Man is the Son of God. God is Man,’ that we experience this in progressive steps or degrees of expanding (and as such, inclusive) consciousness. We may be Divine, but the leap from mundane earthly consciousness to the Cosmic awareness of Kether is extremely radical, and would shatter our vehicles of perception. Instead, we progress slowly and with the aid of various ‘mediators’ to assist us.
Among these mediators are the tools we use, be it ritual, symbols, alchemy, or even actual beings, such as teachers and invisible helpers from the ‘other side’. Abrahadabra symbolizes the harmonization of our inner and outer worlds, in the realm of Tiphareth, and how we can open up to this powerful, but often unseen assistance. Regular and daily use of a ritual, such as the Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram, or the Greater Ritual of the Pentagram, stabilize our “Elemental” nature and allow the forces of Yetzirah to more greatly penetrate our sometimes thick veils of matter.
Through daily prayer and meditation, we slowly and progressively make this once thick barrier more transparent, until once day, we have a flash of awareness, an awakening that helps us realize what is meant by, “About me flames the pentagram, and in the Middle of the Pillar Shines the Six rayed star!”
When the “Little King” of Malkooth, the Pentagram, surrenders to the “Big King” of Tiphareth (the Hexagram) the two are united and the “Mystical Marriage” is initiated within us.
To this end, we can use the word itself as a kind of mantra, or affirmation of this state. By vibrating it as a sacred word of power, we can redeem it from the psuedo-magical connotations that have befallen it, back to its original potency of Divine expression. As mediator, the redemptive qualities, almost messianic in nature, are more clearly understood. When we vibrate this name, we should feel and imagine that the higher and lower worlds are coming into union within us, and that we stand at the center of the world, expressing the powers of Tiphareth. As though through its sound we are bestowing a blessing across creation.
Illegal downloaders will have internet cut off under new Mandelson plan
Internet users who illegally download films and music will have their broadband connection cut off under Government proposals due to be announced today. The decision means internet users who share copyrighted materials with others will get warning letters, before having their connection stopped if they persist.
Government departments are taking over the power to deal with these offenders from the current regulators, Ofcom. This approach was originally ruled out by the Government in its own Digital Britain report released in June, in which it labelled the move as a step too far.
The decision will reignite speculation that Lord Mandelson made a secret deal with Hollywood mogul David Geffen earlier this month on the protection of the film and music industries.
The Business Secretary met with Mr Geffen, a co-founder of the Dreamworks production company, at Nat Rothschild's villa in Corfu. Following this, he ordered civil servants at the Department of Business , Innovation and Skills to toughen up the proposals on illegal file-sharers.
The Government's draft plan states: 'The previous proposals, whilst robust, would take an unacceptable amount of time to complete in a situation that calls for urgent action.'
The then communications minister Lord Carter said in June that illegal downloaders should be sent warning letters and then considered for prosecution if they persist.
He said if that measure failed to reduce digital piracy by 70 per cent, Ofcom could then approach telecoms company BT to apply 'technical measures' to reduce connection speeds.
But today the Government will propose much stricter rules halfway through its consultation on Digital Britain, it was reported in the Guardian.
Illegal file-sharers will still get warning letters, but if they continue to swap copyrighted material they could have their internet connection cut off temporarily. (Daily Mail)
Government departments are taking over the power to deal with these offenders from the current regulators, Ofcom. This approach was originally ruled out by the Government in its own Digital Britain report released in June, in which it labelled the move as a step too far.
The decision will reignite speculation that Lord Mandelson made a secret deal with Hollywood mogul David Geffen earlier this month on the protection of the film and music industries.
The Business Secretary met with Mr Geffen, a co-founder of the Dreamworks production company, at Nat Rothschild's villa in Corfu. Following this, he ordered civil servants at the Department of Business , Innovation and Skills to toughen up the proposals on illegal file-sharers.
The Government's draft plan states: 'The previous proposals, whilst robust, would take an unacceptable amount of time to complete in a situation that calls for urgent action.'
The then communications minister Lord Carter said in June that illegal downloaders should be sent warning letters and then considered for prosecution if they persist.
He said if that measure failed to reduce digital piracy by 70 per cent, Ofcom could then approach telecoms company BT to apply 'technical measures' to reduce connection speeds.
But today the Government will propose much stricter rules halfway through its consultation on Digital Britain, it was reported in the Guardian.
Illegal file-sharers will still get warning letters, but if they continue to swap copyrighted material they could have their internet connection cut off temporarily. (Daily Mail)
Half of GPs Refuse Swine Flu Vaccine Over Testing Fears
'Up to half of family doctors do not want to be vaccinated against swine flu. GPs will be first in the line for the jabs when they become available but many will decline, even though they will be offering the vaccine to their patients. More than two thirds of those who will turn the jab down believe it has not been tested enough.
Most also believe the flu has turned out to be so mild in the vast majority of cases that the vaccine is not needed.'
Read more...
Most also believe the flu has turned out to be so mild in the vast majority of cases that the vaccine is not needed.'
Read more...
Seeing Beyond Fearful Delusions
One of humanity’s biggest fears is losing what we have. It is healthy when fear of loss helps us take steps to protect what we have worked hard to attain, but it is unhealthy to continue to fear something we can do nothing about. We need to remember that focusing our energy on fear can actually create what scares us, and holding tightly to what we have keeps us from participating in the universal flow of abundance and instead creates stagnation. 
Since we can only really control our thoughts and our responses, gaining proper perspective may be key to conquering such fears. The letters of the word "fear" can be used to stand for "False Evidence Appearing Real." Fears of being separated from something or someone we feel we need for our security or happiness comes from a delusion—a distorted way of understanding ourselves and the world around us. When we understand that possessions are only representations of the energy at work in our lives, we can shift our attention to the right and proper place. We can stop fearing loss of money or success because when we understand how it is created, we can always create more. We can stop fearing loss of possessions when we realize that they are not the source of our joy or well-being but only icing on our cakes. And when we understand the energy of love, we need not hold anyone too close for fear of losing them for we know that love does not diminish when it is given or shared but expands beyond boundaries of time or space. By focusing our light on our fears, they are revealed as mere shadows that disappear in the presence of mind and spirit. We can choose instead to direct our thoughts and creative power toward things of true value—love, abundance, peace, passion, and joy. These are energies that are always available to us when we place ourselves confidently in the universal flow of abundance.
Since we can only really control our thoughts and our responses, gaining proper perspective may be key to conquering such fears. The letters of the word "fear" can be used to stand for "False Evidence Appearing Real." Fears of being separated from something or someone we feel we need for our security or happiness comes from a delusion—a distorted way of understanding ourselves and the world around us. When we understand that possessions are only representations of the energy at work in our lives, we can shift our attention to the right and proper place. We can stop fearing loss of money or success because when we understand how it is created, we can always create more. We can stop fearing loss of possessions when we realize that they are not the source of our joy or well-being but only icing on our cakes. And when we understand the energy of love, we need not hold anyone too close for fear of losing them for we know that love does not diminish when it is given or shared but expands beyond boundaries of time or space. By focusing our light on our fears, they are revealed as mere shadows that disappear in the presence of mind and spirit. We can choose instead to direct our thoughts and creative power toward things of true value—love, abundance, peace, passion, and joy. These are energies that are always available to us when we place ourselves confidently in the universal flow of abundance.
'An Untitled Transmission'
Our spirituality and philosophy has been changing in recent years, with the most dramatic change being the rewrite of life on other worlds. It is said some ancient writings have been unearthed which confirm our ancestors did indeed leave this planet with ships that could enter space and then disappear ... to reappear elsewhere a great distance away moments later. There have also been excavations in the ruins of our ancient cities which confirm we are not the first great civilisation on this planet. It was a legend that we weren't dismissing, but until now there had been no proof.
I'd been travelling along one of the high speed tubes which travel along the surface of the planet, when a young priest sitting next to me had explained that there were strong rumours that 'earthlings' were on our planet. He was surprised when I told him I did not know what an earthling was. An earthling is apparently an inhabitant of a watery world in our nearby universe named after an early ruler of their's known as Ea ... who was apparently one of our own creator gods who travelled regularly between the two worlds. The earthlings are supposed to speak in a tongue similar to our own and exist on a world with almost the same culture as ours. They are seemingly similar in appearance to us as they were once inhabitants of our world! I find it hard to accept, but then there have been so many radical changes to our philosophy and belief structure in recent years, that it is very probable. Also, in our own enclaves many many strangers have appeared in recent years with a strange accent and wearing strange clothes. It is possible they are earthlings. I am very open minded and think it very probable --- extract taken from 'An Untitled Transmission' by Matthew James
I'd been travelling along one of the high speed tubes which travel along the surface of the planet, when a young priest sitting next to me had explained that there were strong rumours that 'earthlings' were on our planet. He was surprised when I told him I did not know what an earthling was. An earthling is apparently an inhabitant of a watery world in our nearby universe named after an early ruler of their's known as Ea ... who was apparently one of our own creator gods who travelled regularly between the two worlds. The earthlings are supposed to speak in a tongue similar to our own and exist on a world with almost the same culture as ours. They are seemingly similar in appearance to us as they were once inhabitants of our world! I find it hard to accept, but then there have been so many radical changes to our philosophy and belief structure in recent years, that it is very probable. Also, in our own enclaves many many strangers have appeared in recent years with a strange accent and wearing strange clothes. It is possible they are earthlings. I am very open minded and think it very probable --- extract taken from 'An Untitled Transmission' by Matthew James
More Martian Anomalies ...
More negative images of the Martian surface showing the 'glass like' structures, in another location to the last batch; glass like structures which are hard to determine if they are 'evidence of tampering by human hands', or not. If the latter then do the glass structures resemble anything natural which could perhaps be explained away by some kind of 'lava flow' or similar volcanic activity? If the answer to this is no too ... then what? Glass like structures made by a civilisation on Mars?
This close up image of the glass structure band seems to reveal there is something behind the glass ... ?
This close up image of the glass structure band seems to reveal there is something behind the glass ... ?
The Formorians
Source: Atlantis, The Antediluvian World
The Irish annals speak of the Formorians as a warlike race, who, according to the "Annals of Clonmacnois," "were a sept descended from Cham, the son of Noeh, and lived by pyracie and spoile of other nations, and were in those days very troublesome to the whole world."
Were not these the inhabitants of Atlantis, who, according to Plato, carried their arms to Egypt and Athens, and whose subsequent destruction has been attributed to divine vengeance invoked by their arrogance and oppressions?
The Formorians were from Atlantis. They were called Fomhoraicc, F'omoraig Afraic, and Formoragh, which has been rendered into English as Formorians. They possessed ships, and the uniform representation is that they came, as the name F'omoraig Afraic indicated, from Africa. But in that day Africa did not mean the continent of Africa, as we now understand it. Major Wilford, in the eighth volume of the "Asiatic
Researches," has pointed out that Africa comes from Apar, Aphar, Apara, or Aparica, terms used to signify "the West," just as we now speak of the Asiatic world as "the East." When, therefore, the Formorians claimed to come from Africa, they simply meant that they came from the West--in other words, from Atlantis--for there was no other country except America west of them.
They possessed Ireland from so early a period that by some of the historians they are spoken of as the aborigines of the country.
The first invasion of Ireland, subsequent to the coming of the Formorians, was led by a chief called Partholan: his people are known in the Irish annals as "Partholan's people." They were also probably Atlanteans. They were from Spain. A British prince, Gulguntius, or Gurmund, encountered off the Hebrides a fleet of thirty ships, filled with men and women, led by one Partholyan, who told him they were from Spain, and seeking some place to colonize. The British prince directed him to Ireland. ("De Antiq. et Orig. Cantab.")
Were not these the inhabitants of Atlantis, who, according to Plato, carried their arms to Egypt and Athens, and whose subsequent destruction has been attributed to divine vengeance invoked by their arrogance and oppressions?The Formorians were from Atlantis. They were called Fomhoraicc, F'omoraig Afraic, and Formoragh, which has been rendered into English as Formorians. They possessed ships, and the uniform representation is that they came, as the name F'omoraig Afraic indicated, from Africa. But in that day Africa did not mean the continent of Africa, as we now understand it. Major Wilford, in the eighth volume of the "Asiatic
Researches," has pointed out that Africa comes from Apar, Aphar, Apara, or Aparica, terms used to signify "the West," just as we now speak of the Asiatic world as "the East." When, therefore, the Formorians claimed to come from Africa, they simply meant that they came from the West--in other words, from Atlantis--for there was no other country except America west of them.
They possessed Ireland from so early a period that by some of the historians they are spoken of as the aborigines of the country.
The first invasion of Ireland, subsequent to the coming of the Formorians, was led by a chief called Partholan: his people are known in the Irish annals as "Partholan's people." They were also probably Atlanteans. They were from Spain. A British prince, Gulguntius, or Gurmund, encountered off the Hebrides a fleet of thirty ships, filled with men and women, led by one Partholyan, who told him they were from Spain, and seeking some place to colonize. The British prince directed him to Ireland. ("De Antiq. et Orig. Cantab.")
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Michael Jackson's death 'was a homicide, rules LA coroner' after finding lethal levels of drugs in singer's body
Source: Daily Mail
Michael Jackson was killed after being given a deadly cocktail of drugs to help him sleep, court papers revealed last night.
Among the powerful sedatives found in the singer's body during a post-mortem examination was a lethal dose of the hospital anaesthetic, propofol. The Los Angeles coroner has now ruled the 50-year-old star's shock death on June 25 was homicide.
A law enforcement official, who wished to remain anonymous, said the coroner determined a fatal combination of drugs was given to Jackson hours before he died in his rented Los Angeles mansion. Forensic tests found the powerful anesthetic propofol in Jackson's system along with two sedatives, the official said. 'The Los Angeles Chief Medical Examiner-Coroner, Dr Sathyavagiswaran, indicated that he had reviewed the preliminary toxicology results and his preliminary assessment of
Jackson's cause of death was due to lethal levels of propofol (diprivan),' according to a search warrant affidavit for Murray issued by California. The document was released by the Harris County District Clerk in Houston, where Dr Murray has offices, which U.S. Agents raided on July 22, looking for evidence of manslaughter. Under California law, homicide is not necessarily equivalent to murder and can include manslaughter charges.
The police investigation is reportedly focused on whether Dr Conrad Murray was sufficiently negligent in administering propofol to Jackson to face an involuntary manslaughter count.
Quotes For Today
“Life is not lost by dying; life is lost minute by minute, day by dragging day, in all the thousand small uncaring ways.” -- Stephen Vincent Benet
“It is so easy to waste our lives: our days, our hours, our minutes. ... It is so easy to exist instead of live. Unless you know there is a clock ticking. So many of us changed our lives when we heard a biological clock and decided to have kids. But that sound is a murmur compared to the tolling of mortality.” -- Anna Quindlen
“It is so easy to waste our lives: our days, our hours, our minutes. ... It is so easy to exist instead of live. Unless you know there is a clock ticking. So many of us changed our lives when we heard a biological clock and decided to have kids. But that sound is a murmur compared to the tolling of mortality.” -- Anna Quindlen
Monday, 24 August 2009
Fears over new wireless police Taser gun that can deliver a 500v shock from 98ft away
Source: Daily Mail
Police could be equipped with a new wireless Taser 'shotgun' with a range of more than three times that of current models, it was revealed today.
The eXtended Range Electronic Projectile (XREP) fires a series of barbed electrodes delivering a 20-second, 500-volt shock up to 98ft away. Traditional Taser weapons fire two darts attached to wires and have a range of around 25ft.
Taser International, which makes both weapons, said the new model is a 'revolutionary' step that will help police immobilise suspects from much further away.
But critics said the weapon could cause 'serious injury' to the target's head and face. The weapon, which is already on sale in the U.S., is being considered by the Home Office for use by law enforcement agencies in England and Wales.
But Amnesty International UK's arms programme director Oliver Sprague said: 'We're seriously concerned about this latest weapon by Taser. This is effectively a shotgun that fires electric-shock bullets. Because this bullet can be fired wire-free from a standard shotgun there is a heightened risk of causing serious injury to the face and head. We're also concerned by the fact that these weapons will deliver an excruciatingly painful shock for 20 seconds.’
The eXtended Range Electronic Projectile (XREP) fires a series of barbed electrodes delivering a 20-second, 500-volt shock up to 98ft away. Traditional Taser weapons fire two darts attached to wires and have a range of around 25ft.Taser International, which makes both weapons, said the new model is a 'revolutionary' step that will help police immobilise suspects from much further away.
But critics said the weapon could cause 'serious injury' to the target's head and face. The weapon, which is already on sale in the U.S., is being considered by the Home Office for use by law enforcement agencies in England and Wales.
But Amnesty International UK's arms programme director Oliver Sprague said: 'We're seriously concerned about this latest weapon by Taser. This is effectively a shotgun that fires electric-shock bullets. Because this bullet can be fired wire-free from a standard shotgun there is a heightened risk of causing serious injury to the face and head. We're also concerned by the fact that these weapons will deliver an excruciatingly painful shock for 20 seconds.’
Fennel For Healing
Fennel is crunchy and slightly sweet, adding a refreshing contribution to the ever popular Mediterranean cuisine, but is most often associated with Italian cooking. Like many of its fellow spices, fennel contains its own unique combination of phytonutrients-including the flavonoids Rutin, Quercitin, and various Kaempferol glycosides-that give it strong antioxidant activity. The Phytonutrients in fennel extracts compare favourably in research studies to BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), a potentially toxic antioxidant commonly added to processed foods.
The most fascinating phytonutrient compound in fennel, however, may be anethole-the primary component of its volatile oil. In animal studies, the anethole in fennel has repeatedly been shown to reduce inflammation and to help prevent the occurrence of cancer. Researchers have also proposed a biological mechanism that may explain these anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. This mechanism involves the shutting down of a intercellular signalling system called tumour necrosis factor (or TNF)-mediated signalling. By shutting down this signalling process, the anethole in fennel prevents activation of a potentially strong gene-altering and inflammation-triggering molecule called NF-kappaB. The volatile oil has also been shown to be able to protect the liver of experimental animals from toxic chemical injury.
In addition to its unusual phytonutrients, fennel bulb is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is the body's primary water-soluble antioxidant, able to neutralize free radicals in all aqueous environments of the body. If left unchecked, these free radicals cause cellular damage that results in the pain and joint deterioration that occurs in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The vitamin C found in fennel bulb is directly antimicrobial and is also needed for the proper function of the immune system.
As a very good source of fibre, fennel bulb may help to reduce elevated cholesterol levels. And since fibre also removes potentially carcinogenic toxins from the colon, fennel bulb may also be useful in preventing colon cancer. In addition to its fibre, fennel is a very good source of folate, a B vitamin that is necessary for the conversion of a dangerous molecule called homocysteine into other, benign molecules. At high levels, homocysteine, which can directly damage blood vessel walls, is considered a significant risk factor for heart attack or stroke. Fennel is also a very good source of potassium, a mineral that helps lower high blood pressure, another risk factor for stroke and heart attack. In a cup of fennel, you'll receive 10.8% of the daily value for fibre, 5.9% of the DV for folate, and 10.3% of the DV for potassium.
The most fascinating phytonutrient compound in fennel, however, may be anethole-the primary component of its volatile oil. In animal studies, the anethole in fennel has repeatedly been shown to reduce inflammation and to help prevent the occurrence of cancer. Researchers have also proposed a biological mechanism that may explain these anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. This mechanism involves the shutting down of a intercellular signalling system called tumour necrosis factor (or TNF)-mediated signalling. By shutting down this signalling process, the anethole in fennel prevents activation of a potentially strong gene-altering and inflammation-triggering molecule called NF-kappaB. The volatile oil has also been shown to be able to protect the liver of experimental animals from toxic chemical injury.In addition to its unusual phytonutrients, fennel bulb is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is the body's primary water-soluble antioxidant, able to neutralize free radicals in all aqueous environments of the body. If left unchecked, these free radicals cause cellular damage that results in the pain and joint deterioration that occurs in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The vitamin C found in fennel bulb is directly antimicrobial and is also needed for the proper function of the immune system.
As a very good source of fibre, fennel bulb may help to reduce elevated cholesterol levels. And since fibre also removes potentially carcinogenic toxins from the colon, fennel bulb may also be useful in preventing colon cancer. In addition to its fibre, fennel is a very good source of folate, a B vitamin that is necessary for the conversion of a dangerous molecule called homocysteine into other, benign molecules. At high levels, homocysteine, which can directly damage blood vessel walls, is considered a significant risk factor for heart attack or stroke. Fennel is also a very good source of potassium, a mineral that helps lower high blood pressure, another risk factor for stroke and heart attack. In a cup of fennel, you'll receive 10.8% of the daily value for fibre, 5.9% of the DV for folate, and 10.3% of the DV for potassium.
The Wolf (wa-hya or wa-ya)
To Native Americans, the wolf is a powerful spiritual symbol. They are considered to be teachers or pathfinders. The wolf star was red, an esteemed colour, associated with the wolf by all tribes. Also known as Sirius, it is the brightest star in the Northern Sky. The milky way was the wolf's trail-the route to heaven. In time, the wolf also became associated among the four seasons with summer, among the trees with the willow, and among the great natural forces with the clouds. 
The Indians respected the wolf's prowess as a hunter, his stamina, and the way he moved silently across the landscape. They were moved by his howling, which they sometimes regarded as talking with the spirit world. The wolf appears in many legends as a messenger, great long distancetraveller and a guide for anyone seeking the spirit world. He was the forerunner of new ideas who returned to the clan to teach and share medicine.
Wolf is the Grand teacher. Wolf is the sage, who after many winters upon the sacred path and seeking the ways of wisdom, returns to share new knowledge with the tribe. Wolf is both the radical and the traditional in the same breath. When the Wolf walks by you - you will remember. The old ones tell us stories about our beginnings and of a time when human kind first came to live upon this Earth.
The Indians respected the wolf's prowess as a hunter, his stamina, and the way he moved silently across the landscape. They were moved by his howling, which they sometimes regarded as talking with the spirit world. The wolf appears in many legends as a messenger, great long distancetraveller and a guide for anyone seeking the spirit world. He was the forerunner of new ideas who returned to the clan to teach and share medicine.Wolf is the Grand teacher. Wolf is the sage, who after many winters upon the sacred path and seeking the ways of wisdom, returns to share new knowledge with the tribe. Wolf is both the radical and the traditional in the same breath. When the Wolf walks by you - you will remember. The old ones tell us stories about our beginnings and of a time when human kind first came to live upon this Earth.
It was Wolf who taught Humans the ways of living in harmony. It was Wolf who taught us how to form community upon this Earth, for Wolves have an intuitive knowledge of order through chaos and they possess the ability to survive change, intact. Wolf medicine is very ancient and born of living experience. Wolf will look deep into your heartand share the greatest of knowledge, but will demand full participation, and absolute sincerity.
When Wolf has walked by you, the very presence of the wolf will rekindle old memories within your soul. Through the friction of experience you rekindle the emotional fires of the inner soul and question the manifestations of your own consciousness. You can own a thing only when you have come to own the emotional experience of it, and realize the responsibility for its creation. Then you are free to continue. Wolf medicine can make you whole. You will return to Wolf many times in your life as you complete and begin your cycles of experience and seek the inner truth. (users.ap.net/~chenae)
Wolf - Native American ~ Sacred Spirit ~ Yeha-Noha
Inspirational Native American meditative music by Sacred Spirit.
The Quantum Cross
The Quantum Cross is so called for it is an invocation of the fundamental forces and structures used by magickers. As such it constitutes a Whole Unit. This is expressible in the Greek as a Quantum. In pattern it is very similar to the Qabalistic Cross. This will become evident after examining the meaning of the words. “Chaos” is exactly what it looks like, though I find it best to pronounce it Kha-os, with a short ‘ah’. 
This is the foundation out of which all comes: an abyss. Classically, this is stated in Sepher Yetzerah: “You stand between an abyss of height and an abyss of depth, an abyss…, etc.” Out of absolute disorder, complete potential, emerges the manifestation of order which in Greek is “Cosmos”. This, in Qabalistic mode, is viewed as the Tree of Life itself, which is, as it were, the Malkuth of the Ain Soph Aur, the Light, which in turn is the emanation Chaos, the unpatterned. Form begins with Kether. These two words, Chaos and Cosmos cover the vertical component of this gesture, the “Atoh Malkuth” part of the Qabalistic Cross. However, here they are reversed in location as Order is founded upon Chaos and all action is dependent from Order.
Now having Order, Cosmos, there is division. The whole is now divided for love’s sake for the chance of union. Thus we have the merciful power of “Eros”, love, expanding to fill the Cosmos. This is balanced by the dividing, measuring, formulating power of mind: “Nuos”. Here the neoplatonic influence in Qabalah is brought to light. For in the same way as “ve-Gedulah ve-Geburah” express that same expansion and definition process so does Eros and Nuos. It has been clearly demonstrated historically that Qabalah is the union of Neoplatonic cosmology with the Hebrew theurgic practice. This reformulation uses that same pattern but moves it into a non-Jahwistic frame. Agape and Thelema.
Where the Qabalistic Cross continues with “le Olam” or “now and forever,” we have here “Synchronous”, which says in one word the same thing: Union of Time. This bears special significance in the modern era with C.G. Jung’s disclosure of the principle of synchronicity. Magick can be described as the willful manipulation of synchronicity.
The Qabalistic Cross concludes with the word “Amen.” This is a word taken from the Egyptian word for ‘hidden’. It is also the name of the God from which Jehovah was split off: Amun (Amen) the Hidden God (remember that the proper sacrifice to Jahovah was the ram, the zoomorph of Amun). In ritual it signified assent to what had been said. Yet is does so by saying either that it is hidden, “it is a mystery to me,” or that “we will keep it hidden,” i.e. secret. This approach is pathological to me and so inappropriate.
At the conclusion to this recapitulation of the whole of Creation: from Chaos, by Order, through Love and Consciousness, for All Time comes: What? The last word here must express the essence of Magickal action. If Magick is the art and science of causing change in conformity with will, what is more appropriate than Change itself? Thus, again in the Greek we have Allage: Change. This word is pronounced “al-lah-Yee.” ... read more ...
This is the foundation out of which all comes: an abyss. Classically, this is stated in Sepher Yetzerah: “You stand between an abyss of height and an abyss of depth, an abyss…, etc.” Out of absolute disorder, complete potential, emerges the manifestation of order which in Greek is “Cosmos”. This, in Qabalistic mode, is viewed as the Tree of Life itself, which is, as it were, the Malkuth of the Ain Soph Aur, the Light, which in turn is the emanation Chaos, the unpatterned. Form begins with Kether. These two words, Chaos and Cosmos cover the vertical component of this gesture, the “Atoh Malkuth” part of the Qabalistic Cross. However, here they are reversed in location as Order is founded upon Chaos and all action is dependent from Order.Now having Order, Cosmos, there is division. The whole is now divided for love’s sake for the chance of union. Thus we have the merciful power of “Eros”, love, expanding to fill the Cosmos. This is balanced by the dividing, measuring, formulating power of mind: “Nuos”. Here the neoplatonic influence in Qabalah is brought to light. For in the same way as “ve-Gedulah ve-Geburah” express that same expansion and definition process so does Eros and Nuos. It has been clearly demonstrated historically that Qabalah is the union of Neoplatonic cosmology with the Hebrew theurgic practice. This reformulation uses that same pattern but moves it into a non-Jahwistic frame. Agape and Thelema.
Where the Qabalistic Cross continues with “le Olam” or “now and forever,” we have here “Synchronous”, which says in one word the same thing: Union of Time. This bears special significance in the modern era with C.G. Jung’s disclosure of the principle of synchronicity. Magick can be described as the willful manipulation of synchronicity.
The Qabalistic Cross concludes with the word “Amen.” This is a word taken from the Egyptian word for ‘hidden’. It is also the name of the God from which Jehovah was split off: Amun (Amen) the Hidden God (remember that the proper sacrifice to Jahovah was the ram, the zoomorph of Amun). In ritual it signified assent to what had been said. Yet is does so by saying either that it is hidden, “it is a mystery to me,” or that “we will keep it hidden,” i.e. secret. This approach is pathological to me and so inappropriate.
At the conclusion to this recapitulation of the whole of Creation: from Chaos, by Order, through Love and Consciousness, for All Time comes: What? The last word here must express the essence of Magickal action. If Magick is the art and science of causing change in conformity with will, what is more appropriate than Change itself? Thus, again in the Greek we have Allage: Change. This word is pronounced “al-lah-Yee.” ... read more ...
Inspiration For The Day
You build the power to accomplish your goalswhen you educate yourself. This power comes from knowing how to do something. Power is the product of understanding. The most successful people in life are the one's with the best information. People with power are people who know how to get things done. Knowing how to do something is sometimes virtually the same as havingdone it. Knowledge will come to you by having your eyes and mind always open. There is no knowledge that is not power. In the land of the blind, the one eyed man is king.
Image Of The Day - Mars Anomaly
Here is another martian anomaly of interest obtained by way of reversed imaging. The rectangular inset on the left is the area of the image in the red circle. This section of martian soil barely looks like a 'natural formation' at all. There is more than a suggestion of manufactured technology here. Indeed, controversially, the area within the red ring on the inset, has more than a passing likeness to 'an automobile'!! Surely not ... it's not 1st April yet is it? There's no life on Mars remember. It makes for an interesting anomaly and an equally controversial paradigm. What if, indeed, we the sheep of mankind, are being kept out of the loop with regard to this nearby world. What if ... there is life on Mars? (Double click the image for the bigger picture)
Swine/Avian Flu,The Story So Far.
Source: Swine/avian flu,the story so far.
The information on this blog is in regard to the swine flu pandemic and the mandatory swine flu vaccine that the Government and the World Health Organisation will force upon us. The information is laid out in date order and is a series of internet links to news stories that totally discredit all the misinformation, lies and deceit that the main stream media have been putting out.
I began to research the Avian/Swine last year when my partner, an NHS employee began her intensive training for the predicted flu pandemic. Initially l was uninterested, but after hearing more l became suspicious and began researching this much more closely. They were informed of a possible pandemic in early 2009, dipping and then returning with a vengeance by the end of the year. Massive loss of life was predicted, more than the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic. The NHS would be overwhelmed.
A contingency plan is in place to use refrigerated warehouses or containers to store bodies. [Google “NHS to use refrigerated storage during flu pandemic”] In 2006 it was confirmed that millions of extra body bags were ordered as a precaution.
How did the NHS know they would need millions of body bags? NHS employees were told to keep quiet about this, so as to not cause panic and mayhem, (Bull- population control comes to mind). They may have to work a massive amount of overtime, will have to wear protective clothing and take precautionary measures. They are predicting a major human catastrophe with huge loss of life. Hospitals, doctors and morgues will be stretched to capacity. If you know anyone who works in the NHS do some digging, ask questions ... read more ...
The information on this blog is in regard to the swine flu pandemic and the mandatory swine flu vaccine that the Government and the World Health Organisation will force upon us. The information is laid out in date order and is a series of internet links to news stories that totally discredit all the misinformation, lies and deceit that the main stream media have been putting out.
I began to research the Avian/Swine last year when my partner, an NHS employee began her intensive training for the predicted flu pandemic. Initially l was uninterested, but after hearing more l became suspicious and began researching this much more closely. They were informed of a possible pandemic in early 2009, dipping and then returning with a vengeance by the end of the year. Massive loss of life was predicted, more than the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic. The NHS would be overwhelmed.
A contingency plan is in place to use refrigerated warehouses or containers to store bodies. [Google “NHS to use refrigerated storage during flu pandemic”] In 2006 it was confirmed that millions of extra body bags were ordered as a precaution.
How did the NHS know they would need millions of body bags? NHS employees were told to keep quiet about this, so as to not cause panic and mayhem, (Bull- population control comes to mind). They may have to work a massive amount of overtime, will have to wear protective clothing and take precautionary measures. They are predicting a major human catastrophe with huge loss of life. Hospitals, doctors and morgues will be stretched to capacity. If you know anyone who works in the NHS do some digging, ask questions ... read more ...
Hundreds of snoopers assault our privacy
If you ever get the feeling you are being snooped on, it is probably because you are. We reveal today that the police, local councils and a host of other public bodies are making more than 1,000 requests a day – over half a million a year – to examine our telephone records or to find out to whom we are sending emails. That is the equivalent of one adult in every 78 being spied upon. This level of surveillance would be familiar to the stasi in the old East Germany but in a liberal democracy that prides itself on its freedoms, it is deeply troubling.
This assault on our privacy is authorised by the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) 2000. The measure is frequently described as anti-terrorist legislation that has been hijacked by public bodies but it is no such thing. It was enacted the year before the 9/11 attacks and was an attempt by the Government to control the wide range of powers already available to public bodies to dig and delve into people's lives. Admittedly, the terrorist alert did lead to a dramatic extension of the numbers of bodies able to use RIPA – they now total 795 and include all local authorities.
And it seems that it is local authorities that are most enthusiastic to use – and abuse – these powers. We reported earlier this year the wide use of undercover operations by council staff for often the most banal reasons such as dog fouling. Undercover methods are warranted when it comes to detecting benefit cheats, fly-tippers or trading standards offences, but dog dirt? A sense of proportion is required here and it is obvious that in too many cases, it is absent.
This is a particular cause of concern when it comes to communications. RIPA empowers designated bodies to demand from providers the details of customer activity – not the content of calls or emails, but their timing and destination. While the great majority of the 504,073 such requests last year were made by the police and security services, more than 1,500 were made by local councils. Many people will be uncomfortable with that. Those given the task of maintaining law and order and preserving the security of the state operate on a different plane to the people who empty our dustbins. The problem with RIPA is that it has succeeded in blurring that distinction.
We are currently awaiting the outcome of a Home Office review into the working of RIPA which looked both at the number of bodies given snooping powers by the Act and the seniority of officials authorised to use its powers. The essence of any reform should be that it ensures that the use of such intrusive measures by public bodies will always be exceptional, rather than routine ... read more ...
This assault on our privacy is authorised by the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) 2000. The measure is frequently described as anti-terrorist legislation that has been hijacked by public bodies but it is no such thing. It was enacted the year before the 9/11 attacks and was an attempt by the Government to control the wide range of powers already available to public bodies to dig and delve into people's lives. Admittedly, the terrorist alert did lead to a dramatic extension of the numbers of bodies able to use RIPA – they now total 795 and include all local authorities.
And it seems that it is local authorities that are most enthusiastic to use – and abuse – these powers. We reported earlier this year the wide use of undercover operations by council staff for often the most banal reasons such as dog fouling. Undercover methods are warranted when it comes to detecting benefit cheats, fly-tippers or trading standards offences, but dog dirt? A sense of proportion is required here and it is obvious that in too many cases, it is absent.
This is a particular cause of concern when it comes to communications. RIPA empowers designated bodies to demand from providers the details of customer activity – not the content of calls or emails, but their timing and destination. While the great majority of the 504,073 such requests last year were made by the police and security services, more than 1,500 were made by local councils. Many people will be uncomfortable with that. Those given the task of maintaining law and order and preserving the security of the state operate on a different plane to the people who empty our dustbins. The problem with RIPA is that it has succeeded in blurring that distinction.
We are currently awaiting the outcome of a Home Office review into the working of RIPA which looked both at the number of bodies given snooping powers by the Act and the seniority of officials authorised to use its powers. The essence of any reform should be that it ensures that the use of such intrusive measures by public bodies will always be exceptional, rather than routine ... read more ...
Living with It
You may be someone who understands the true nature of reality, perceiving deeply that we all emanate from the same source, that we are all essentially one, and that we are here on earth to love one another. To understand this is to be awakened to the true nature of the self, and it is a blessing. Nevertheless, people who just don’t get it are seemingly everywhere and, often, in positions of power. 
It can be frustrating and painful to watch them behave unconsciously. We all encounter individuals of this bent in our families, at work, and in all areas of public life. It is easy to find ourselves feeling intolerant of these people, wishing we could be free of them even though we know that separation from them is an illusion. It helps sometimes to think of us all as different parts of one psyche. Just as within our own hearts and minds we have dark places that need healing, the heart and mind of the world has its dark places. The health of the whole organism depends upon the relative health of the individuals within it. We increase harmony when we hold onto the light, not allowing it to be darkened by judgment, anger, and fear about those who behave unconsciously. It’s easier to accomplish this if we don’t focus on the negative qualities of individuals and instead focus on how increasing our own light will increase the light of the overall picture. When dealing with people who seem very unconscious, it helps to remember that every one must find their own way to awakening and that the experiences they are having are an essential part of their process. Holding them in the light of our own energy may be the best way to awaken theirs. At the same time, we are inspired by their example to look within and shed light on our own unconscious places, sacrificing the urge to judge and surrendering instead to humble self-inquiry.
It can be frustrating and painful to watch them behave unconsciously. We all encounter individuals of this bent in our families, at work, and in all areas of public life. It is easy to find ourselves feeling intolerant of these people, wishing we could be free of them even though we know that separation from them is an illusion. It helps sometimes to think of us all as different parts of one psyche. Just as within our own hearts and minds we have dark places that need healing, the heart and mind of the world has its dark places. The health of the whole organism depends upon the relative health of the individuals within it. We increase harmony when we hold onto the light, not allowing it to be darkened by judgment, anger, and fear about those who behave unconsciously. It’s easier to accomplish this if we don’t focus on the negative qualities of individuals and instead focus on how increasing our own light will increase the light of the overall picture. When dealing with people who seem very unconscious, it helps to remember that every one must find their own way to awakening and that the experiences they are having are an essential part of their process. Holding them in the light of our own energy may be the best way to awaken theirs. At the same time, we are inspired by their example to look within and shed light on our own unconscious places, sacrificing the urge to judge and surrendering instead to humble self-inquiry.
A Word on 'Pohagunt'
Petroglyphs were made by one particular group: Shamans or medicine men. These were healer and religious and political leaders who were believed to be able to go into the supernatural world by entering an trance. They did this primarily to acquire supernatural power, which they usually obtained in the form of an animal spirit helper.
But they also entered the supernatural and used its powers to cure, make rain, control animals, find lost objects, predict the future and sometimes bewitch their enemies.
Supernatural power was called poha. A shaman was known as a pohagunt, or "man having power". Rock art sites were among the most powerful of the ritual locations used by shamans. They were called pohaghani, or "house of power".
Petroglyphs were made at the conclusion of the shaman's vision quest, immediately after he came out of his trance. This vision quest involved isolation from other people, fasting, meditation and sometimes, the use of tobacco. All of these activities can result in hallucinations, which were considered to be sacred visions.
But they also entered the supernatural and used its powers to cure, make rain, control animals, find lost objects, predict the future and sometimes bewitch their enemies.Supernatural power was called poha. A shaman was known as a pohagunt, or "man having power". Rock art sites were among the most powerful of the ritual locations used by shamans. They were called pohaghani, or "house of power".
Petroglyphs were made at the conclusion of the shaman's vision quest, immediately after he came out of his trance. This vision quest involved isolation from other people, fasting, meditation and sometimes, the use of tobacco. All of these activities can result in hallucinations, which were considered to be sacred visions.
Victorious England regain Ashes
Source: BBC Sport
England regained the Ashes with a momentous 197-run win in the deciding Test to seal a 2-1 series triumph.
A
fter losing 5-0 in Australia in 2007, victory in The Oval sun was reminiscent of England's famous 2005 Ashes win.
Australia resumed on 80-0 needing a further 466 for a world record win but twice lost two wickets in two overs. Andrew Flintoff, in his final Test, brilliantly ran out Ricky Ponting (66) and Mike Hussey was last out at 1749 BST on day four after a defiant 121.
Some said this series did not match the tension of 2005 but the continual fluctuations made it highly absorbing. After their final wicket pair held on against the odds for a draw in the first Test, England took a 1-0 lead with their first Test win at Lord's for 75 years. They were denied by the weather and a fine Australian rearguard at Edgbaston before capitulating to emphatic defeat at Headingley, and unlike in 2005 the series came to the final match with either side able to win outright.
The target of 546 had never been achieved in any first-class match, and only once had a team scored more than 500 batting last in a Test. Australia still harboured hopes of making history but only 15 minutes into day four, Simon Katich made a fatal error of judgement as he offered no stroke to a quicker arm-ball from Graeme Swann.
England regained the Ashes with a momentous 197-run win in the deciding Test to seal a 2-1 series triumph.
A
fter losing 5-0 in Australia in 2007, victory in The Oval sun was reminiscent of England's famous 2005 Ashes win.Australia resumed on 80-0 needing a further 466 for a world record win but twice lost two wickets in two overs. Andrew Flintoff, in his final Test, brilliantly ran out Ricky Ponting (66) and Mike Hussey was last out at 1749 BST on day four after a defiant 121.
Some said this series did not match the tension of 2005 but the continual fluctuations made it highly absorbing. After their final wicket pair held on against the odds for a draw in the first Test, England took a 1-0 lead with their first Test win at Lord's for 75 years. They were denied by the weather and a fine Australian rearguard at Edgbaston before capitulating to emphatic defeat at Headingley, and unlike in 2005 the series came to the final match with either side able to win outright.
The target of 546 had never been achieved in any first-class match, and only once had a team scored more than 500 batting last in a Test. Australia still harboured hopes of making history but only 15 minutes into day four, Simon Katich made a fatal error of judgement as he offered no stroke to a quicker arm-ball from Graeme Swann.
Sunday, 23 August 2009
The Period of Pralaya between two Incarnations
Source: A Treatise Of Cosmic Fire
This is of a triple nature and affects the substance of the three vehicles, physical, astral and mental, reducing the form to its primitive substance, and dissipating its atomic structure. The energy of the second aspect (that of the form-builder) is withdrawn by the will of the Ego, and the atoms composing the form become dissociated from each other, and are resolved into the reservoir of essence to be recollected again when the hour strikes. This condition is brought about gradually by stages of which we are aware.
The first stage is the withdrawal of the life force in the etheric vehicle from the threefold (dense, liquid and gaseous) dense physical body and the consequent "falling into corruption," and becoming "scattered to the elements." Objective man fades out, and is no more seen by the physical eye, though still in his etheric body. When etheric vision is developed, the thought of death will assume very different proportions. When a man can be seen functioning in his etheric physical body by the majority of the race, the dropping of the dense body will be considered just a "release."
The next stage is the withdrawal of the life force from the etheric body or coil, and its devitalization. The etheric coil is but an extension of one aspect of the sutratma or thread, and this thread is spun by the Ego from within the causal body much as a spider spins a thread. It can be shortened or extended at will, and when the period of pralaya has been decided upon, this thread of light, or of solar fire (note the word "solar") is withdrawn, and gathered back to the atomic subplane where it will still vitalize the permanent atom and hold it connected within the causal body. The life impulses are then - as far as the physical plane is concerned - centralized within the atomic sphere.
The third stage is the withdrawal of the life force from so that it disintegrates in a similar manner and the life is centralized within the astral permanent atom. It has gained an increase of vitality through physical plane existence, and added color through astral experience.
The final stage for the human atom is its withdrawal [736] from the mental vehicle. The life forces after this fourfold abstraction are centralized entirely within the egoic sphere; contact with the three lower planes is still inherently possible by means of the permanent atoms, the force centers of the three personality aspects.
This is of a triple nature and affects the substance of the three vehicles, physical, astral and mental, reducing the form to its primitive substance, and dissipating its atomic structure. The energy of the second aspect (that of the form-builder) is withdrawn by the will of the Ego, and the atoms composing the form become dissociated from each other, and are resolved into the reservoir of essence to be recollected again when the hour strikes. This condition is brought about gradually by stages of which we are aware.
The first stage is the withdrawal of the life force in the etheric vehicle from the threefold (dense, liquid and gaseous) dense physical body and the consequent "falling into corruption," and becoming "scattered to the elements." Objective man fades out, and is no more seen by the physical eye, though still in his etheric body. When etheric vision is developed, the thought of death will assume very different proportions. When a man can be seen functioning in his etheric physical body by the majority of the race, the dropping of the dense body will be considered just a "release."
The next stage is the withdrawal of the life force from the etheric body or coil, and its devitalization. The etheric coil is but an extension of one aspect of the sutratma or thread, and this thread is spun by the Ego from within the causal body much as a spider spins a thread. It can be shortened or extended at will, and when the period of pralaya has been decided upon, this thread of light, or of solar fire (note the word "solar") is withdrawn, and gathered back to the atomic subplane where it will still vitalize the permanent atom and hold it connected within the causal body. The life impulses are then - as far as the physical plane is concerned - centralized within the atomic sphere.
The third stage is the withdrawal of the life force from so that it disintegrates in a similar manner and the life is centralized within the astral permanent atom. It has gained an increase of vitality through physical plane existence, and added color through astral experience.
The final stage for the human atom is its withdrawal [736] from the mental vehicle. The life forces after this fourfold abstraction are centralized entirely within the egoic sphere; contact with the three lower planes is still inherently possible by means of the permanent atoms, the force centers of the three personality aspects.
10,000th Post!
On what could be a historic day ... England regaining back The Ashes ... A Light In The Darkness reaches 10,000 posts since November 2006. Let us hope well before the 20,000 signpost is reached that Madeleine McCann is returned safe and well back to her family. Many thanks to those who have supported A Light In The Darkness, it is appreciated.
Mars Anomaly ...
Another Martian negative image anomaly ... 'glass like' anomalies which appear in several places on the Martian surface, which on first viewing appear to be evidence of 'tampering' ... however these 'glass like' anomalies appear to have something below them. But what?
In the Miracle
What is a miracle? It is not the intercession of a supernatural being into material affairs, not an event that violates the laws of the universe. A miracle is something that is impossible from one's current understanding of reality and truth, but that becomes possible from a new understanding.
A miracle is more than an event: it is an invitation. It says, "The universe is bigger than you thought it was." It invites us to step into a larger world, in which new things are possible.
A miracle can blow apart our world if we accept it. Indeed, sometimes we do not accept it; sometimes we relegate it to the category of "that was weird," an exception to life, and we preserve normalcy and think and live as we always have, as if nothing had happened. When faced with an event that defies our usual explanations, we discard the event to preserve the explanation.'
Read more...
A miracle is more than an event: it is an invitation. It says, "The universe is bigger than you thought it was." It invites us to step into a larger world, in which new things are possible.A miracle can blow apart our world if we accept it. Indeed, sometimes we do not accept it; sometimes we relegate it to the category of "that was weird," an exception to life, and we preserve normalcy and think and live as we always have, as if nothing had happened. When faced with an event that defies our usual explanations, we discard the event to preserve the explanation.'
Read more...
Government Permission Will be Required to Travel
'Starting this year, Americans will have to get government approval to travel by air. As Privacy Journal revealed last fall, henceforth "Permission Now Needed to Travel Within U.S." Getting a reservation and checking-in for air travel will soon require Transportation Security Administration authorization.
That permission is by no means assured: For example, if your name matches a "no-fly" list, even mistakenly, you can be denied the right to a reserve a seat on a flight. If your name is on a "selectee" list, you and your possessions will be searched more thoroughly before you can board. What is going on here? All travelers will need government OK in order to board a flight, or take a cruise. What the government can allow one day, it can forbid the next.'
Read more...
That permission is by no means assured: For example, if your name matches a "no-fly" list, even mistakenly, you can be denied the right to a reserve a seat on a flight. If your name is on a "selectee" list, you and your possessions will be searched more thoroughly before you can board. What is going on here? All travelers will need government OK in order to board a flight, or take a cruise. What the government can allow one day, it can forbid the next.'
Read more...
Buddhist Inspiration ..
A wave in the sea, seen in one way, seems to have a distinct identity, an end and a beginning, a birth and a death. Seen in another way, the wave itself doesn’t really exist but is just the behaviour of water, “empty” of any separate identity but “full” of water. So when you really think about the wave, you come to realize that it is something that has been made temporarily possible by wind and water, and is dependent on a set of constantly changing circumstances. You also realize that every wave is related to every other wave.
FDA's Mercury Ruling Defies ALL Scientific Reasoning
'Vapors from dental mercury go into the human body. Due to mercury waste, amalgam is also increasingly targeted by environmentalists. Amalgam has also become controversial because the middle-class has largely moved to non-toxic alternatives while the poor, minorities, and institutional recipients, such as soldiers and prisoners, still get mercury amalgam.'
Read more...
Read more...
Langdale ValleyComing Out Of A Haze
When we feel muddled and unfocused, unsure of which way to turn, we say we are in a fog. Similar to when we are in a fog in nature, we may feel like we can't see where we're going or where we've come from, and we're afraid if we move too quickly we might run into something hidden in the mists that seem to surround us. Being in a fog necessarily slows us down by limiting our visibility.
The best choice may be to pull over and wait for the murkiness to clear. If we move at all, we must go slowly, feeling our way and keeping our eyes open for shapes emerging from the haze, perhaps relying on the taillights of someone in front of us as we make our way along the road. By and large, most of us prefer to be able to see where we are going and move steadfastly in that direction, but there are gifts that come from being in a fog. Sometimes it takes an obstacle like fog to get us to stop and be still in the moment, doing nothing. In this moment of involuntary inactivity, we may look within and find that the source of our fogginess is inside us; it could be some emotional issue that needs tending before we can safely go full steam ahead. Being in a fog reminds us that when we cannot see outside ourselves, we can always make progress by looking within. Then again, the fog may simply be teaching us important lessons about how to continue moving forward with extreme caution, harnessing our attention, watching closely for new information, and being ready to stop on a dime. We cannot predict when a fog will come, nor can we know for certain when it will lift, but we can center ourselves in the haze and wait for guidance. We may find it inside ourselves or in a pair of barely visible taillights just ahead. Whether we follow the lights out of the fog, wait for a gentle breeze to lift it, or allow the sun to burn it away, we can rest certain that one way or another, we will move forward with clarity once again.
The best choice may be to pull over and wait for the murkiness to clear. If we move at all, we must go slowly, feeling our way and keeping our eyes open for shapes emerging from the haze, perhaps relying on the taillights of someone in front of us as we make our way along the road. By and large, most of us prefer to be able to see where we are going and move steadfastly in that direction, but there are gifts that come from being in a fog. Sometimes it takes an obstacle like fog to get us to stop and be still in the moment, doing nothing. In this moment of involuntary inactivity, we may look within and find that the source of our fogginess is inside us; it could be some emotional issue that needs tending before we can safely go full steam ahead. Being in a fog reminds us that when we cannot see outside ourselves, we can always make progress by looking within. Then again, the fog may simply be teaching us important lessons about how to continue moving forward with extreme caution, harnessing our attention, watching closely for new information, and being ready to stop on a dime. We cannot predict when a fog will come, nor can we know for certain when it will lift, but we can center ourselves in the haze and wait for guidance. We may find it inside ourselves or in a pair of barely visible taillights just ahead. Whether we follow the lights out of the fog, wait for a gentle breeze to lift it, or allow the sun to burn it away, we can rest certain that one way or another, we will move forward with clarity once again.
Sport Summary
England on course for Ashes glorySource: BBC Sport
Jonathan Trott hit an assured debut century as England gave themselves a golden chance to win the Ashes. The Warwickshire batsman was last out for 119 as England declared their second innings on 373-9, a lead of 545. Skipper Andrew Strauss contributed 75 and Graeme Swann an aggressive 63 but Andrew Flintoff's final Test innings of 22 was merely a brief cameo. Australia were 80-0 at the close, still needing an improbable 466 more for what would be a world record triumph.
Wigan 0 - 5 Man Utd
Source: BBC Sport
Michael Owen scored his first goal for Manchester United as they bounced back from their defeat at Burnley to thump Wigan with a flurry of late goals. United had been frustrated until Wayne Rooney headed home Antonio Valencia's cross for his 100th goal for the club. A neat move soon saw Dimitar Berbatov make it 2-0 and Rooney's shot deflected in off Mario Melchiot to add a third. Owen came off the bench to score number four with a clipped finish and Nani's curling free-kick completed the rout. For all three of his senior strikers to find the net will give United boss Sir Alex Ferguson much satisfaction in wake of the criticism that followed Wednesday's shock loss at Turf Moor.
Saturday, 22 August 2009
The Beast of Gévaudan
One of the most perplexing cryptozoological mysteries of all time, the Beast of Gévaudan was a cow-sized, wolf-like monster which terrorized the district of Gévaudan (Lozère), France, from 1764 until 1767. 
This tiny province, in the Margeride Mountains of south-central France, first became aware of the Beast in June, 1764. That month, a young woman was attacked by a large, wolf-like monster in the Forêt de Merçoire near Langogne. She was one of the few people who survived an encounter with la Bête, a creature which was, peculiarly, referred to in the feminine. In October of that year, two hunters came across the Beast and shot at it from close range. The Beast was hit a total of four times, but it seemed relatively untouched.
This tiny province, in the Margeride Mountains of south-central France, first became aware of the Beast in June, 1764. That month, a young woman was attacked by a large, wolf-like monster in the Forêt de Merçoire near Langogne. She was one of the few people who survived an encounter with la Bête, a creature which was, peculiarly, referred to in the feminine. In October of that year, two hunters came across the Beast and shot at it from close range. The Beast was hit a total of four times, but it seemed relatively untouched. A Capt. Duhamel, who commanded nearly 60 soldiers, began his own hunt for La Bête, and on several occasions wounded it--but it was still not killed. In 1765, King Louis XV himself sent an experienced wolf-hunter named Denneval to Gévaudan to kill the Beast. Before Denneval himself managed to track down the Beast, a man named de la Chaumette saw the Beast near his home, near St.-Chely. He and his two brothers went out to a pasture in hopes of killing the Beast. They shot it twice, but it still didn't die.
In June, 1765, Denneval gave up his hunt. The previous month, King Louis sent out his chief gun-carrier, Antoine de Beauterne. On September 21, he launched a hunt in the Béal Ravine, near Pommier. He shot what he believed was the Beast. It was an extremely large wolf, 6 feet long. De Beauterne's kill was preserved up until this century in the Museum of Natural History in Paris. But the killings still continued.
In the summer of 1767, hundreds of peasants made pilgrimages to Notre-Dame de Beaulieu Cathedral near Mount Chauvet to pray for deliverance from the creature, which was widely believed to be either punishment sent by God, or possibly a loup-garou (werewolf). One of the peasants who went to the cathedral was a hermit named Jean Chastel. He had his rifle and three bullets blessed. On June 19, 1767, an area noble organized a huge hunt, with more than 300 participants. Chastel, at the Sogne d'Aubert, waited for the Beast to appear, praying all the while.
When it appeared, he shot it. Finally, it died. What was the Beast? The French peasants of the area believed it to be some sort of demon, but an English account from about the same time said the Beast was most likely a member of "a new species", which they said was a hybrid of tiger and hyena. Learned men believed it to have been a wolverine, a bear, or even a baboon. (fortune city)
Before Completion, Line 5
"Perseverance brings good fortune. No remorse. The light of the superior man is true. Good fortune."
"The victory has been won. The power of steadfastness has not been routed." [Wilhelm]
The Yi is telling you that a successful outcome is assured. You have been able to get past the obstacles without harm. And you have done it in a way that will not cause you any regrets. Congratulations!
"The victory has been won. The power of steadfastness has not been routed." [Wilhelm]
The Yi is telling you that a successful outcome is assured. You have been able to get past the obstacles without harm. And you have done it in a way that will not cause you any regrets. Congratulations!
Why sleep? Scientist delves into one of science's great mysteries
According to the journal Science, the function of sleep is one of the 125 greatest unsolved mysteries in science. Theories range from brain "maintenance" — including memory consolidation and pruning — to reversing damage from oxidative stress suffered while awake, to promoting longevity. None of these theories are well established, and many are mutually exclusive.
Now, a new analysis by Jerome Siegel, UCLA professor of psychiatry and director of the Center for Sleep Research at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behaviour at UCLA and the Sepulveda Veterans Affairs Medical Center, has concluded that sleep's primary function is to increase animals' efficiency and minimize their risk by regulating the duration and timing of their behaviour.
The research appears in the current online edition of the journal Nature Reviews Neuroscience. "Sleep has normally been viewed as something negative for survival because sleeping animals may be vulnerable to predation and they can't perform the behaviours that ensure survival," Siegel said. These behaviours include eating, procreating, caring for family members, monitoring the environment for danger and scouting for prey. So it's been thought that sleep must serve some as-yet unidentified physiological or neural function that can't be accomplished when animals are awake," he said.
Siegel's lab conducted a new survey of the sleep times of a broad range of animals, examining everything from the platypus and the walrus to the echidna, a small, burrowing, egg-laying mammal covered in spines. The researchers concluded that sleep itself is highly adaptive, much like the inactive states seen in a wide range of species, starting with plants and simple microorganisms; these species have dormant states — as opposed to sleep — even though in many cases they do not have nervous systems. That challenges the idea that sleep is for the brain, said Siegel.
"We see sleep as lying on a continuum that ranges from these dormant states like torpor and hibernation, on to periods of continuous activity without any sleep, such as during migration, where birds can fly for days on end without stopping," he said.
Hibernation is one example of an activity that regulates behaviour for survival. A small animal, Siegel noted, can't migrate to a warmer climate in winter. So it hibernates, effectively cutting its energy consumption and thus its need for food, remaining secure from predators by burrowing underground.
Sleep duration, then, is determined in each species by the time requirements of eating, the cost-benefit relations between activity and risk, migration needs, care of young, and other factors. However, unlike hibernation and torpor, Siegel said, sleep is rapidly reversible — that is, animals can wake up quickly, a unique mammalian adaptation that allows for a relatively quick response to sensory signals.
Humans fit into this analysis as well. What is most remarkable about sleep, according to Siegel, is not the unresponsiveness or vulnerability it creates but rather that ability to reduce body and brain metabolism while still allowing that high level of responsiveness to the environment ... read more ...
Now, a new analysis by Jerome Siegel, UCLA professor of psychiatry and director of the Center for Sleep Research at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behaviour at UCLA and the Sepulveda Veterans Affairs Medical Center, has concluded that sleep's primary function is to increase animals' efficiency and minimize their risk by regulating the duration and timing of their behaviour.The research appears in the current online edition of the journal Nature Reviews Neuroscience. "Sleep has normally been viewed as something negative for survival because sleeping animals may be vulnerable to predation and they can't perform the behaviours that ensure survival," Siegel said. These behaviours include eating, procreating, caring for family members, monitoring the environment for danger and scouting for prey. So it's been thought that sleep must serve some as-yet unidentified physiological or neural function that can't be accomplished when animals are awake," he said.
Siegel's lab conducted a new survey of the sleep times of a broad range of animals, examining everything from the platypus and the walrus to the echidna, a small, burrowing, egg-laying mammal covered in spines. The researchers concluded that sleep itself is highly adaptive, much like the inactive states seen in a wide range of species, starting with plants and simple microorganisms; these species have dormant states — as opposed to sleep — even though in many cases they do not have nervous systems. That challenges the idea that sleep is for the brain, said Siegel.
"We see sleep as lying on a continuum that ranges from these dormant states like torpor and hibernation, on to periods of continuous activity without any sleep, such as during migration, where birds can fly for days on end without stopping," he said.
Hibernation is one example of an activity that regulates behaviour for survival. A small animal, Siegel noted, can't migrate to a warmer climate in winter. So it hibernates, effectively cutting its energy consumption and thus its need for food, remaining secure from predators by burrowing underground.
Sleep duration, then, is determined in each species by the time requirements of eating, the cost-benefit relations between activity and risk, migration needs, care of young, and other factors. However, unlike hibernation and torpor, Siegel said, sleep is rapidly reversible — that is, animals can wake up quickly, a unique mammalian adaptation that allows for a relatively quick response to sensory signals.
Humans fit into this analysis as well. What is most remarkable about sleep, according to Siegel, is not the unresponsiveness or vulnerability it creates but rather that ability to reduce body and brain metabolism while still allowing that high level of responsiveness to the environment ... read more ...
Gold And Silver The Sacred Metals Of Atlantis.
It is evident that every primitive people uses as money those articles upon which they set the highest value--as cattle, jewels, slaves, salt, musket-balls, pins, snuff, whiskey, cotton shirts, leather, axes, and hammers; or those articles for which there was a foreign demand, and which they could trade off to the merchants for articles of necessity--as tea, silk, codfish, coonskins, cocoa-nuts, and tobacco. Then there is a later stage, when the stamp of the government is impressed upon paper, wood, pasteboard, or the bark of trees, and these articles are given a legal-tender character.
When a civilized nation comes in contact with a barbarous people they seek to trade with them for those things which they need; a metal-working people, manufacturing weapons of iron or copper, will seek for the useful metals, and hence we find iron, copper, tin, and lead coming into use as a standard of values--as money; for they can always be converted into articles of use and weapons of war. But when we ask bow it chanced that gold and silver came to be used as money, and why it is that gold is regarded as so much more valuable than silver, no answer presents itself. It was impossible to make either of them into pots or pans, swords or spears; they were not necessarily more beautiful than glass or the combinations of tin and copper. Nothing astonished the American races more than the extraordinary value set upon gold and silver by the Spaniards; they could not understand it. A West Indian savage traded a handful of gold-dust with one of the sailors accompanying Columbus for some tool, and then ran for his life to the woods lest the sailor should repent his bargain and call him back. The Mexicans had coins of tin shaped like a letter T. We can understand this, for tin was necessary to them in hardening their bronze implements, and it may have been the highest type of metallic value among them. A round copper coin with a serpent stamped on it was found at Palenque, and T-shaped copper coins are very abundant in the ruins of Central America. This too we can understand, for copper was necessary in every work of art or utility.
All these nations were familiar with gold and silver, but they used them as sacred metals for the adornment of the temples of the sun and moon. The color of gold was something of the color of the sun's rays, while the color of silver resembled the pale light of the moon, and hence they were respectively sacred to the gods of the sun and moon. And this is probably the origin of the comparative value of these metals: they became the precious metals because they were the sacred metals, and gold was more valuable than silver--just as the sun-god was the great god of the nations, while the mild moon was simply an attendant upon the sun.
The Peruvians called gold "the tears wept by the sun." It was not used among the people for ornament or money. The great temple of the sun at Cuzco was called the "Place of Gold." It was, as I have shown, literally a mine of gold. Walls, cornices, statuary, plate, ornaments, all were of gold; the very ewers, pipes, and aqueducts--even the agricultural implements used in the garden of the temple--were of gold and silver. The value of the jewels which adorned the temple was equal to one hundred and eighty millions of dollars! The riches of the kingdom can be conceived when we remember that from a pyramid in Chimu a Spanish explorer named Toledo took, in 1577, $4,450,284 in gold and silver. ("New American Cyclopædia," art. American Antiquities.) The gold and silver of Peru largely contributed to form the metallic currency upon which Europe has carried on her commerce during the last three hundred years.
Gold and silver were not valued in Peru for any intrinsic usefulness; they were regarded as sacred because reserved for the two great gods of the nation. As we find gold and silver mined and worked on both sides of the Atlantic at the earliest periods of recorded history, we may fairly conclude that they were known to the Atlanteans; and this view is confirmed by the statements of Plato, who represents a condition of things in Atlantis exactly like that which Pizarro found in Peru. Doubtless the vast accumulations of gold and silver in both countries were due to the fact that these metals were not permitted to be used by the people. In Peru the annual taxes of the people were paid to the Inca in part in gold and silver from the mines, and they were used to ornament the temples; and thus the work of accumulating the sacred metals went on from generation to generation. The same process doubtless led to the vast accumulations in the temples of Atlantis, as described by Plato. Now, as the Atlanteans carried on an immense commerce with all the countries of Europe and Western Asia, they doubtless inquired and traded for gold and silver for the adornment of their temples, and they thus produced a demand for and gave a value to the two metals otherwise comparatively useless to man--a value higher than any other commodity which the people could offer their civilized customers; and as the reverence for the great burning orb of the sun, master of all the manifestations of nature, was tenfold as great as the veneration for the smaller, weaker, and variable goddess of the night, so was the demand for the metal sacred to the sun ten times as great as for the metal sacred to the moon. This view is confirmed by the fact that the root of the word by which the Celts, the Greeks, and the Romans designated gold was the Sanscrit word karat, which means, "the color of the sun." ... read more ...
When a civilized nation comes in contact with a barbarous people they seek to trade with them for those things which they need; a metal-working people, manufacturing weapons of iron or copper, will seek for the useful metals, and hence we find iron, copper, tin, and lead coming into use as a standard of values--as money; for they can always be converted into articles of use and weapons of war. But when we ask bow it chanced that gold and silver came to be used as money, and why it is that gold is regarded as so much more valuable than silver, no answer presents itself. It was impossible to make either of them into pots or pans, swords or spears; they were not necessarily more beautiful than glass or the combinations of tin and copper. Nothing astonished the American races more than the extraordinary value set upon gold and silver by the Spaniards; they could not understand it. A West Indian savage traded a handful of gold-dust with one of the sailors accompanying Columbus for some tool, and then ran for his life to the woods lest the sailor should repent his bargain and call him back. The Mexicans had coins of tin shaped like a letter T. We can understand this, for tin was necessary to them in hardening their bronze implements, and it may have been the highest type of metallic value among them. A round copper coin with a serpent stamped on it was found at Palenque, and T-shaped copper coins are very abundant in the ruins of Central America. This too we can understand, for copper was necessary in every work of art or utility.All these nations were familiar with gold and silver, but they used them as sacred metals for the adornment of the temples of the sun and moon. The color of gold was something of the color of the sun's rays, while the color of silver resembled the pale light of the moon, and hence they were respectively sacred to the gods of the sun and moon. And this is probably the origin of the comparative value of these metals: they became the precious metals because they were the sacred metals, and gold was more valuable than silver--just as the sun-god was the great god of the nations, while the mild moon was simply an attendant upon the sun.
The Peruvians called gold "the tears wept by the sun." It was not used among the people for ornament or money. The great temple of the sun at Cuzco was called the "Place of Gold." It was, as I have shown, literally a mine of gold. Walls, cornices, statuary, plate, ornaments, all were of gold; the very ewers, pipes, and aqueducts--even the agricultural implements used in the garden of the temple--were of gold and silver. The value of the jewels which adorned the temple was equal to one hundred and eighty millions of dollars! The riches of the kingdom can be conceived when we remember that from a pyramid in Chimu a Spanish explorer named Toledo took, in 1577, $4,450,284 in gold and silver. ("New American Cyclopædia," art. American Antiquities.) The gold and silver of Peru largely contributed to form the metallic currency upon which Europe has carried on her commerce during the last three hundred years.
Gold and silver were not valued in Peru for any intrinsic usefulness; they were regarded as sacred because reserved for the two great gods of the nation. As we find gold and silver mined and worked on both sides of the Atlantic at the earliest periods of recorded history, we may fairly conclude that they were known to the Atlanteans; and this view is confirmed by the statements of Plato, who represents a condition of things in Atlantis exactly like that which Pizarro found in Peru. Doubtless the vast accumulations of gold and silver in both countries were due to the fact that these metals were not permitted to be used by the people. In Peru the annual taxes of the people were paid to the Inca in part in gold and silver from the mines, and they were used to ornament the temples; and thus the work of accumulating the sacred metals went on from generation to generation. The same process doubtless led to the vast accumulations in the temples of Atlantis, as described by Plato. Now, as the Atlanteans carried on an immense commerce with all the countries of Europe and Western Asia, they doubtless inquired and traded for gold and silver for the adornment of their temples, and they thus produced a demand for and gave a value to the two metals otherwise comparatively useless to man--a value higher than any other commodity which the people could offer their civilized customers; and as the reverence for the great burning orb of the sun, master of all the manifestations of nature, was tenfold as great as the veneration for the smaller, weaker, and variable goddess of the night, so was the demand for the metal sacred to the sun ten times as great as for the metal sacred to the moon. This view is confirmed by the fact that the root of the word by which the Celts, the Greeks, and the Romans designated gold was the Sanscrit word karat, which means, "the color of the sun." ... read more ...
All Vaccines Are Poison
Vaccines contain decomposed protein such as that which is taken from pustules on sick animals or putrefied eggs mixed with deadly drugs such as carbolic acid (phenol), mercury, formaldehyde (formalin), etc. Decomposed proteins can cause botulism, salmonella or other types of body poisoning. It’s no wonder people drop dead after the shots.
All doctors who know the subject know and admit that all vaccines are highly toxic, and the after-effects are unpredictable. No doctor, laboratory technician or scientist can possibly determine the reaction the vaccine will have on each individual.
It is impossible to know, in advance, the toleration point for poison which each person has. Therefore it is a deadly gamble—like Russian roulette—as to whether the vaccine will cause instant death (and that sometimes happens), or paralysis a few hours later, or cancer, heart trouble or TB a few years later, or kidney disease, liver damage, insanity (post vaccinal encephalitis—inflammation of the brain caused by vaccines) or some other chronic disease somewhere along the way.
Vaccine is even worse than Russian roulette because that kills only a few and they are usually other crooks, while vaccination kills thousands of innocent and trusting people.
Read more ...
All doctors who know the subject know and admit that all vaccines are highly toxic, and the after-effects are unpredictable. No doctor, laboratory technician or scientist can possibly determine the reaction the vaccine will have on each individual.
It is impossible to know, in advance, the toleration point for poison which each person has. Therefore it is a deadly gamble—like Russian roulette—as to whether the vaccine will cause instant death (and that sometimes happens), or paralysis a few hours later, or cancer, heart trouble or TB a few years later, or kidney disease, liver damage, insanity (post vaccinal encephalitis—inflammation of the brain caused by vaccines) or some other chronic disease somewhere along the way.
Vaccine is even worse than Russian roulette because that kills only a few and they are usually other crooks, while vaccination kills thousands of innocent and trusting people.
Read more ...
Quotes For The Day
“Time is life. It is irreversible and irreplaceable. To waste your time is to waste your life, but to master your time is to master your life and make the most of it.” -- Alan Lakein
“Until you value yourself, you will not value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it.” -- M. Scott Peck
“Until you value yourself, you will not value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it.” -- M. Scott Peck
A Word On 'Feoh'
The meaning of this rune is 'cattle', a vital aspect of the life of any agricultural community and an important factor in the economy of a group of peoples initially unacquainted with the use of money. The rune represents possessions won or earned and thus also material gain.
T
he Anglo-Saxon runic poem describes wealth as a comfort to all men, then goes on to add that they must bestow it freely if they wish to gain favour in the sight of the Lord. This is not the Christian interpolation that it at first appears, as the bestowing of rewards and generosity is an important feature of much of the extant saga literature. As we shall see later there is even a 'gift' rune.
The Norwegian and Icelandic rune poems take a more cynical view and regard wealth as a cause of discord among kinsmen. The Norwegian poem (NRP) compares this to the wolf living in the forest, whilst the 'fire of the sea and path of the grave-fish' of the Icelandic text (IRP) is a clear allusion to its inspiration of Viking practices.
The rune may be linked to Frey or Freya. Oxen were sacrificed to Frey, as detailed in Gisli's Saga and Viga-Glum's Saga. IRP glosses 'gold' for this rune and both gold and amber, which was mentioned by Tacitus as one of the trade commodities of the Aestii which fetched a good price from the Romans, are referred to in Norse myth as the 'tears of Freya'. Significantly the Aestii were said to have worshipped the mother of the gods and worn her emblem, the wild boar. This will later be found linked to Frey, Freya's brother, and while in later myth Freya tends to be the whore of the gods rather than their mother she has also been identified with Frigg. The necklace Brisingamen, obtained by Freya at the price of sleeping with the four dwarf craftsmen who created it, is the symbol of Freya's wealth... read more ...
T
he Anglo-Saxon runic poem describes wealth as a comfort to all men, then goes on to add that they must bestow it freely if they wish to gain favour in the sight of the Lord. This is not the Christian interpolation that it at first appears, as the bestowing of rewards and generosity is an important feature of much of the extant saga literature. As we shall see later there is even a 'gift' rune.The Norwegian and Icelandic rune poems take a more cynical view and regard wealth as a cause of discord among kinsmen. The Norwegian poem (NRP) compares this to the wolf living in the forest, whilst the 'fire of the sea and path of the grave-fish' of the Icelandic text (IRP) is a clear allusion to its inspiration of Viking practices.
The rune may be linked to Frey or Freya. Oxen were sacrificed to Frey, as detailed in Gisli's Saga and Viga-Glum's Saga. IRP glosses 'gold' for this rune and both gold and amber, which was mentioned by Tacitus as one of the trade commodities of the Aestii which fetched a good price from the Romans, are referred to in Norse myth as the 'tears of Freya'. Significantly the Aestii were said to have worshipped the mother of the gods and worn her emblem, the wild boar. This will later be found linked to Frey, Freya's brother, and while in later myth Freya tends to be the whore of the gods rather than their mother she has also been identified with Frigg. The necklace Brisingamen, obtained by Freya at the price of sleeping with the four dwarf craftsmen who created it, is the symbol of Freya's wealth... read more ...
Friday, 21 August 2009
Origins Of Serpent Gods
Source: bibliotecapleyades.net
Interestingly, Im-Hetep, or Imouthis, is given as Ptah's son, in the Memphite Triad. Imouthis is also known as Asklepios, who is also known as Agathodaimon. Also, I-M-Hetep is known as the first important builder in Egyptian history, as well as being a physician. Interesting.
Also, the Cuthites may be like the Cuthans, mentioned above, but they are also confused with the Cushites, or sons of Cush. The Cushites came from the Land of Cush, which is known to be Nubia and Ethiopia.
It is stated that these Cuthites migrated from Egypt, to Syria, to the Euphrates. Also it is said that the Aith-Opes or Ethiopians migrated to Greece, and brought the rites of Serpent worship with them. Also, in connection with this it is said that Erectheus is the individual responsible for bringing the rites of Eleusis to Greece, to Athens. Now, could these Cuthites be connected with the Babylonian Priests we have spoken of, i.e., the Nergals of Cutha? Perhaps. We know that about 43 miles north of Baghdad on the west bank of the Tigris river is the location of the ancient city of Opis, where at least two crucial events took place. First, this is where the Persians, under the command of Cyrus, overthrew Babylon and claimed the whole area as a satrapy. Second, this is where Alexander the Great was said to have invited dignitaries from all over his empire for the purpose of feasting and so that he could consolidate them all together and proclaim his New World Order.
Zecharia Sitchin points out that EnKi was given Africa, while EnLil had Mesopotamia, Inanna the Indus Valley, and NinHarsag the Sinai Peninsula. Notice that the Ethiopians, according to Jennings, were called the sons of Vulcan. This is the same appellation given to Adapa and Enmeduranki. Vulcan is none other than Ptah, who is none other than EnKi, according to popular syncretization.
Interestingly, Im-Hetep, or Imouthis, is given as Ptah's son, in the Memphite Triad. Imouthis is also known as Asklepios, who is also known as Agathodaimon. Also, I-M-Hetep is known as the first important builder in Egyptian history, as well as being a physician. Interesting.Also, the Cuthites may be like the Cuthans, mentioned above, but they are also confused with the Cushites, or sons of Cush. The Cushites came from the Land of Cush, which is known to be Nubia and Ethiopia.
It is stated that these Cuthites migrated from Egypt, to Syria, to the Euphrates. Also it is said that the Aith-Opes or Ethiopians migrated to Greece, and brought the rites of Serpent worship with them. Also, in connection with this it is said that Erectheus is the individual responsible for bringing the rites of Eleusis to Greece, to Athens. Now, could these Cuthites be connected with the Babylonian Priests we have spoken of, i.e., the Nergals of Cutha? Perhaps. We know that about 43 miles north of Baghdad on the west bank of the Tigris river is the location of the ancient city of Opis, where at least two crucial events took place. First, this is where the Persians, under the command of Cyrus, overthrew Babylon and claimed the whole area as a satrapy. Second, this is where Alexander the Great was said to have invited dignitaries from all over his empire for the purpose of feasting and so that he could consolidate them all together and proclaim his New World Order.
Buddhist Inspiration ... Joy
When you have the thought that each being is so precious, then naturally respect comes, then you want to offer service, and if there's anything you can do, even just a small thing you can do, then it makes you so happy, even just a small thing you can offer, it brings incredible joy and happiness, satisfaction and fulfillment, meaning in life.
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