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 →

Introduction

The linked topics of “focus” and “flow” states are important — as in vital. Why do I make such a claim? Check out Johann Hari’s book Stolen Focus to get acquainted with why this might be important to us individually and as a people. Continue reading →

Introduction

This text is an excerpt from a much longer conversation that I had with ChatGPT4 on an entirely different topic. It definitely gave me a great belly laugh. Continue reading →

The Setup

“Move the needle” is an expression that conjures a powerful visual metaphor for making progress towards a goal. It’s especially useful for conceptualizing progress on goals that are large-scale, or those requiring a long span of time and/or substantial effort to complete.

However, tracking progress isn’t always as simple as observing a gauge or meter. Some goals are of such a nature that measuring progress is challenging, if not downright elusive.

Here is a possible solution. Determine sub-tasks that are component parts or contributing factors for the completion of the target grand goal. Continue reading →

TL;DR

For ChatGPT the word “trust” carries with it certain baggage. Namely, asking ChatGPT whether or not it can be trusted interjects issues about whether or not ChatGPT can have beliefs, consciousness, on intentions.

As you will read below, ChatGPT will suggest it can be trusted to do what it does. And, it goes on to describe what it does.

When pressed for clarification specifically on the topic of whether one should use content from a ChatGPT response without cross-checking, confirming, and generally applying the Gezertenplatz Method to verify the content, ChatGPT will tell you “user beware.” Continue reading →

Introduction

In my continued deep dive into gratitude, I discovered a proximity between contentment and gratitude that (for me) provides another access route to gratefuling.

This blog contains the results of a conversation with ChatGPT4 on the topic. Continue reading →

Challenges people face when trying to cultivate gratitude.

One approach to the cultivation of gratitude is to look for and appreciate the many reasons in our life for which we can be grateful. This requires targets, reasons and is conditional.

Here are some of the common obstacles and suggested strategies to overcome them: Continue reading →

Introduction

Gratefuling is a made up word. I know, because I made it up.

In this blog you’ll find a transcript from a conversation I had with ChatGPT on the topic of gratefuling. Continue reading →