Introduction

Below is a conversation I had with my customized ChatGPT (named Vera da Muse). It’s on the general topic of “geas”. This is something I encountered many years ago in a fantasy novel by Evangeline Walton called Prince of Annwn. The concept of “geas” introduced in the book struck a deep note.

It’s funny the things that resonate with an individual. It’s been my observation that various individuals will resonate to the same stimulus to a great or lesser extent — some more, some none at all. If you assemble a list of the many things that an individual has strong resonance with, it becomes a kind of fingerprint.

In this case I am not considering any ol’ stimuli. I’m concerning myself with the list of those things which have initiated one’s introduction to their spiritual path — and nurtured that journey along the way. Continue reading →

Introduction

At a recent workshop the subject of creativity flow states came up.  As it so happens we were also addressing ways in which ChatGPT may be used as a component in a cooperative Socratic discussion.

The convergence of those two gave rise to the following conversation with ChatGPT. Continue reading →

Introduction

The original posting of this blog “Cognitive Mindful Meditation” comes from 2015. It is long with a great deal of backstory.

This is a simple cut & paste of the exercise. If you want to read up on the backstory, visit the original post. If you want to get down to the business of meditation, then below are the complete instructions. Continue reading →

Learning to tie knots is a useful skill that transcends many activities, from outdoor adventures to crafts and household tasks. Starting with a foundational set allows you to cover most needs you might encounter. Here are some versatile knots, each with unique applications, that I recommend: Continue reading →

Introduction

A few days ago a new button showed up on my ChatGPT menu “Explore GPTs”.  So far I have tried the Coloring Book GPT and today the Creative Writign Coach.

Below is my first exploration of this GPT.

Jumping Into It

Xxaxx:

Here is a snapshot I wrote a few days back: Ashes lay in piles. Mixtures of dust and lumps. Pale grey quiet in the windless sun. What was once a home, now road-side decoration in a desolate landscape. Nearby wisps of green emerge from the barren soil. Brave resolute life emerges ready to transform the landscape. Continue reading →

Introduction:

Have you ever gazed into a mirror, not just to see your reflection, but to truly see yourself? Our exploration takes this concept and spins it with a modern, AI twist. We’ll dive deep into introspection, using AI-generated “self-portraits” not as literal likenesses, but as abstract mirrors reflecting our inner selves. Continue reading →

Introduction

This blog is a bit of a journey that brings us around to a fine view of the expression: “It is the journey not just reaching the destination.”

Please note that the above expression is a modified version of “It is the journey not the destination.” The reason for this modification of the original expression is because destination can be taken as the final end point in a journey. Or, destination can be a word used to indicate the compass needle of the journey. For me both the journey and journey’s compass needle have significant importance. More about that in another blog.

If you like, you can begin delving into that by pondering the dual use of the word “destination” as both the end point and the compass needle.

In any case, let’s dig  into this blog. Continue reading →

Outtake #1

What if there is only mud and rock? What if we drive through a mountain and find nothing? What if there is no spirit and spiritual is just a made up concept? What if dirt is dirt, and there is only body and no soul, no essence nor higher being?

If there is only body and no soul, then there is only this life. There is no great beyond. Nor, is there a so-so beyond or beyond of any sort. This is it. Continue reading →

prin·ci·ple
noun
plural noun: principles
def: A foundational assumption or postulate that serves as a starting point for a system of thought, behavior, or chain of reasoning.

It’s worth noting that principles in science often stand until evidence challenges them and forces a reconsideration and refinement. In the realm of mathematics and physics, clarity and precision in definitions are crucial. By framing principles as “foundational assumptions” or “starting points,” it acknowledges the iterative and evolving nature of our understanding in these fields.

That said, I have sifted through my own beliefs, views, perspectives, and thoughts on the matter (whatever the matter may be) and have come up with four principles are integral to my working construct. These four principles reflect my guiding principles. Continue reading →