Winter is by far the most paradoxical

 The statement that "Of the four seasons, winter is by far the most paradoxical" suggests that winter is a season that exhibits contradictory characteristics, making it unique and complex in comparison to the other seasons. 

Winter can be incredibly harsh, with freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and icy conditions. However, it's also considered one of the most beautiful seasons due to the serene, pristine landscapes that snow creates. The same snow and ice that can make daily life difficult can also turn the world into a breathtaking wonderland.

Winter often leads to a sense of isolation, as cold weather keeps people indoors, and the early sunset can make the days feel shorter. Yet, winter is also a season of togetherness, as families and friends gather for holidays like Christmas and New Year's, sharing warmth, food, and good times.

In many regions, winter is a season of dormancy for plants, with trees shedding their leaves and many flowers disappearing. It can seem like a season of death in nature. But, beneath the snow and ice, life is still present. Many animals hibernate, and some plants and trees are quietly preparing for their springtime resurgence.

Winter is known for its serene silence, with snow muffling sound and creating a sense of peace. On the other hand, the silence can be deafening, as the world outside can become eerily quiet, with minimal activity and human noise.

Winter is synonymous with bitter cold, but it's also a time when we seek warmth and coziness. People bundle up in layers, gather around fireplaces, and enjoy hot beverages, creating a comforting contrast to the cold outdoors.

For some, winter is a time of inactivity, as outdoor activities become limited, and days are spent indoors. However, for others, winter offers unique adventures like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating, making it a season of thrilling outdoor activities.

While winter can seem dull and gray, it's also a time when holiday decorations, city lights, and the sparkle of ice crystals on trees can bring a sense of wonder and magic to the world.

 Winter can expose the vulnerability of people and ecosystems to extreme weather conditions. At the same time, it highlights the resilience of both, as people adapt to the cold, and nature endures the challenges to come back to life in the spring.

These paradoxes make winter a season full of contrasts and complexities, which can evoke a wide range of emotions and experiences for those who experience it.

Uncertainty who needs it?

We need to acknowledge uncertainty and not fight against it Once we understand that doing this is a powerful concept that can be applied to various aspects of life.

When faced with a health condition, acknowledging the uncertainty of the outcome can reduce anxiety. Instead of resisting the reality of the illness, one can focus on what they can control, such as following a doctor's advice, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking emotional support. By doing so, they can "surf the waves" of their health journey, adapting to changing circumstances and reducing unnecessary stress.

Job insecurity and career changes often bring uncertainty. Rather than resisting the fear of job loss or changes in the workplace, individuals can acknowledge the uncertainty and focus on building their skills, networking, and exploring new opportunities. This approach allows them to adapt to the evolving job market and ride the waves of professional change.

Being a grandparent is inherently uncertain, with no guaranteed outcomes. Instead of fighting against the unpredictability of your grandchild's behaviour or life events, grandparents can acknowledge the inherent uncertainty and focus on providing a loving and supportive environment. This approach allows them to adapt to their grandchild's needs and challenges, creating a more harmonious dynamic.

Addressing climate change is a global challenge filled with uncertainty about the success of mitigation efforts. Rather than resisting the reality of climate change, individuals and governments can acknowledge the uncertainty and take action within their control. This includes reducing personal carbon footprints, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and advocating for environmental policies. Surfing the waves of climate change means being adaptable and taking action where it matters most.

Financial markets are inherently uncertain, and investments can fluctuate. Instead of fighting against the unpredictability of financial markets, investors can acknowledge the uncertainty and focus on sound financial planning, diversifying their investments, and maintaining a long-term perspective. This approach allows them to ride out market volatility and make informed decisions.

In all these examples, the common theme is embracing the reality of uncertainty and focusing on what is within one's control. By doing so, we can reduce unnecessary stress and improve their ability to adapt to changing circumstances, ultimately leading to better outcomes and a more peaceful state of mind. Byron Katie's quote, "The only time we suffer is when we believe a thought that argues with what is," reminds us that our thoughts and attitudes play a significant role in our experience of uncertainty.

You are never too old to dream a new dream.

At any age, you can find solace and renewed purpose. It’s never too late to set another goal or to dream a new dream. When you're feeling down, remember that life can still surprise you with beautiful moments. These moments, though they may be few, are the ones that can rekindle your spirit and breathe new life into your world.

Perhaps it’s a warm, unexpected phone call from a long-lost friend, reminiscing about shared memories and laughter from years past. It could be the simple joy of watching a vibrant sunset or the delicate beauty of a blooming flower in your garden. Or, it might be the genuine smile of a grandchild as they recount their day at school, making you feel cherished and relevant.

Life’s beautiful moments are hiding in the ordinary, waiting to be discovered. It might be the taste of your favourite meal or a comforting cup of tea on a rainy day. These experiences, though small, have the power to uplift your spirits and remind you that there’s still magic in the world.

Furthermore, the opportunity to help others and make a positive impact remains a powerful source of beauty in life. As we age, we can be a beacon of wisdom and support for those around us. Connecting with others through sharing and listening is meaningful.

The beauty of life doesn’t discriminate by age or circumstance. It’s always present, waiting for you to notice and appreciate it. Even in depression, there are beautiful moments that can brighten the darkest days.

Meaningful connections and a chance to rediscover your passions are open to you every day. Each day brings an opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to explore new possibilities. Embrace your experiences, and know there’s room for new dreams to blossom and bring light to your life."

How do you learn when you retire?

Three years ago, I came across the statement “Who we are is how we learn.” It suggests that our identity, background, and experiences influence how we learn. As I was thinking about what a person can do when they retire, learning something new is a great idea. When I was teaching at the University, I taught a class on learning how to learn. This helped students who were new to learning to understand how they learned. Each of us is a unique individual with our own set of experiences, beliefs, values, and cultural backgrounds. These individual differences influence how we perceive, process, and engage with information and knowledge. To me, this is what made teaching so much fun.

I was lucky in that my mom and her family came from an Eastern European background and my dad and his family came from a British-American background. This provided some interesting perspectives on how each of my parents engaged with information and knowledge. A person’s cultural background can affect their learning style. Cultural norms, values, and practices can affect how individuals approach education, problem-solving, and communication. Recognizing and respecting these cultural differences is essential for effective teaching and learning.

 I learn best by watching someone do and then reading instructions. You have your own unique way of learning. Our learning experiences affect how we think and learn. For example, if you had a bad prior success in mathematics, you may believe that math is not your best subject and you may approach it with anxiety.

 A student's background can affect their resources, education, and home support in some places. In BC, the same resources are available to students in all socioeconomic situations. However, home support is important and it may be missing for some students.

 Gender, race, sexuality, and disability shape students’ perception of themselves in the learning environment. A positive self-concept can enhance motivation and engagement, while negative self-perceptions can hinder learning.

 We know different individuals have different learning styles and preferences. Some of us may excel in visual learning, while others may prefer hands-on, experiential learning. Understanding and accommodating these preferences can enhance the learning experience. As you begin your retirement journey, review the unique way you learn. We all have unique goals and aspirations that drive our learning. It may motivate some people to excel, while others may focus on skill development or personal growth..

 By valuing our diverse backgrounds and experiences, we can create an inclusive learning environment. The creation of this environment promotes personal growth and success.

No paper menus in restaurants leads to frustration.

 My thanks to Cristina for this.

I recently went to a restaurant to celebrate my son’s birthday and was utterly shocked when it wasn’t possible to order from a paper menu - we were asked to go to the website to order and pay online… while we were sitting at the table and the waiter was just standing there!! 

My phone screen was too small for me to see the menu at one glance, so I had to scroll forever with the phone almost on my nose, plus it’s an old phone so it very quickly ran out of battery and the screen went black… so frustrating! 

I ended up having to ask my teenage children, who were busy ordering their meals on their own phones, to order “whatever” for me… I will never go back there - I felt extremely frustrated, even angry at the assumption that everyone is technologically savvy with a smartphone and good eyesight... Plus it was supposed to be a celebratory and fun occasion where we were “together” as a family without looking at our screens.

And then, once we were back home, I had to transfer money to my kids to reimburse their ‘purchase’… Ridiculous. I could not believe it. I felt the experience totally ruined the mood. Thoughts?

What did you do with the time inbetween?

Life begins and life ends. As seniors, we are nearer the end than the beginning, so a question to ask is: what have we done with the time in between?

Many seniors, as we face the end, reflect on the purpose and meaning of our lives.   This question allows us the opportunity to reflect on the choices we made, to reflect on the significance of our actions, and to think about the pursuit of our desires, and the development of our character.

Some people believe that life is a chance to fulfill oneself and achieve self-actualization. From this standpoint, life is an unwritten book upon which we are free to write our own unique story. As we pursue personal goals, passions, and pleasures, we can argue that life’s value is measured by the degree of happiness and satisfaction we gain during our journey. This perspective puts a high degree of importance on our autonomy and our right to make choices that line up with our individual goals.

Although it may seem attractive, focusing only on personal happiness and gain can raise the question of whether this focus gives one's life meaning. What of the ethical dimensions of our actions? Can we truly find fulfillment without considering the impact of our choices on others and the broader community?

A second perspective asserts that we should be altruistic and compassionate. From this point of view, life acquires meaning through our capacity to contribute to the welfare of others and the betterment of society. This view holds that a good life is one that is dedicated to service, empathy, and the alleviation of suffering. Success comes from forming bonds with others and doing kind things, not just pursuing your own interests.

For some, this is the only way that they have lived their lives. People often ask how to balance self-care and caring for others, especially in an unjust world. Is it enough to strive for the well-being of others, or must we also consider broader issues of justice and systemic change?

A third perspective believes that our life is about our search for meaning and purpose. This view holds that we could create our own purpose in life because life on its own, lacks real meaning. Life’s purpose is not discovered but constructed through our choices and actions.

This perspective gives us the ability to face the anxiety that arises from the realization of our ultimate mortality. Being human means having the paradox of freedom and burden while trying to find meaning through our actions.

In the end, the question of what we did with the time between birth and death is an inquiry into the nature of our existence. It helps us balance our self-interest with helping others. 

What we did with the time in between is deeply personal, and the meaning we find may be as unique as our fingerprints. Discovering our own answers to life's purpose is a valuable and lasting pursuit.

Some perspectives on ageing

 As I have said I don’t think a lot about growing older, nor do my friends. We have never been accused of acting our age, which is a compliment. I think there may be some unwritten rules about ageing that may have been written down somewhere, but I have not found them yet. Here are some perspectives about growing older:

Seniors gain wisdom based on their life experiences. I did a workshop at an Aboriginal gathering and in the promotion of the gathering the organizers stated “Our seniors hold the wisdom of the ages.” So, one widely held perspective is that elders should be respected for their wisdom and life experience. This often includes showing deference and listening to their advice.

Seniors age gracefully. As all of us, want to age gracefully, but we are not sure what that means. Does it mean having a positive attitude toward the process of getting older? Or does it mean embracing the physical, emotional, and social changes that come with age while maintaining a sense of dignity, confidence, and well-being? Or does it mean accepting and embracing the natural changes that come with age, such as wrinkles, gray hair, and changes in mobility, rather than trying to look or appear younger than one's actual age through excessive cosmetic procedures or unrealistic beauty standards? It may mean all of these, so take your pick and when asked if you are ageing gracefully, you can decide on the definition that suits you and answer yes to the question.

Healthy aging means we should be staying physically and mentally active. This means engaging in activities like exercise, (carpet bowling, tennis, golf, pickle ball, etc.)  or hobbies crosswords, model building, reading, sudoku, chess, checkers, etc.) or lifelong learning. We also need to continue our healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, and good sleep habits to maintain physical health and vitality 

A fear of outliving our money is one perspective shared by many soon-to-be seniors. Planning for retirement and ensuring financial security in old age is considered important and should be started early. Saving and investing for the future is encouraged when we are young but because life is expensive in the present, many of us do not save as much as we should.

Our circle of friends and family grows much smaller as we age. Maintaining social connections and relationships with family and friends is crucial for emotional well-being. Staying connected contributes to a sense of purpose and emotional support in later years.

 As our circles of friends, family and acquaintances grow smaller, it becomes more important to take care of one's physical and mental health. You have to keep up your regular medical check-ups, manage chronic conditions and stress, and stay mentally sharp through activities like puzzles or reading.

Seniors are still open to change and are more adaptable. Being open to new experiences and adapting to changing circumstances is a positive aspect of aging. Seniors are open to trying new things, embracing technology, and staying curious as long as we can see how we can benefit from embracing the new.  Many seniors, in the face of new challenges and experiences, are open to change and adaptable. This can involve adjusting to retirement, changes in living arrangements, and evolving family dynamics.

Ageing is an opportunity to reflect on our life's purpose and consider how we can leave a positive legacy or contribute to our community or society. Aging gracefully may include reflecting on one's life experiences and considering how to share our wisdom, where to volunteer and how to contribute to the community.

 Striking a balance between maintaining our independence and accepting assistance when needed can be challenging. There's no one-size-fits-all approach we need to acknowledge the balance between maintaining independence and accepting help. Aging gracefully means recognizing when assistance is needed and being willing to seek and accept it without feeling a loss of dignity.

 Maintaining a positive and optimistic outlook on life can have an impact on our well-being in old age. We need to cultivate our emotional resilience and maintain a positive outlook. This includes finding ways to manage stress, cope with loss, and maintain mental well-being. A commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth or engaging in ne education or intellectual pursuits can help manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Also, cultivating a sense of gratitude for the opportunities and experiences and  appreciating the journey and the people who have been a part of it can help.

 It's important to note that aging gracefully is a highly personal and individualized concept. What it means to one person may differ from what it means to another. Ultimately, it's about finding a way to navigate the aging process with a sense of self-acceptance, contentment, and a positive outlook on the years ahead.

Have you ever thought about this?

The author of this is not known, but it sends a powerful message about how we spend our time.

A 100 years from now, in 2123, we will all be buried with our relatives and friends.

Strangers will live in our homes we fought so hard to build, and they will own everything we have today. One day, everything we own, even the fancy car, will be worth nothing and owned by someone we don't know.

Our descendants will hardly or hardly know who we were, nor will they remember us. How many of us know our grandfather’s father?

After we die, we will be remembered for a few more years, then we are just a portrait on someone’s bookshelf, and a few years later our history, photos and deeds disappear in history’s oblivion. We won’t even be memories.

If we paused one day to analyze these facts, perhaps we would understand how ignorant and weak the dream was to achieve it all.

If we could only think about this, surely our approaches and our thoughts would change, and we would be different people.

When you retire you have more, no time for what’s really valuable in this life. You can make up for the lost moments by living, laughing, and cherishing every moment with family and loved ones. This gives them and you beautiful moments to remember and fill our lives with joy.

And yet some waste the opportunity to laugh, love and cherish our loved ones, day after day with greed, avarice, and intolerance.

Do you proceed with caution?

In a blog post by Elinor Stutz in Babyboomer.org  she said, "We will all need to take greater care than ever before as we consider the information that reaches us to decipher whether it is accurate. Laziness may get one into challenging circumstances when making an incorrect decision. More than ever, it is vital to proceed cautiously.:

The statement is relevant and essential in the digital age, where information is abundant and easily accessible. In today's world, the volume of information can be overwhelming, and misinformation or fake news can spread rapidly through social media and other online platforms. Therefore, it has become crucial for individuals to be more discerning and critical when evaluating the accuracy of the information they encounter.

The warning against laziness is uniquely pertinent. With the ease of sharing and reposting content, people may sometimes share information without fact-checking or verifying its authenticity. This lack of due diligence can have serious consequences, especially when making important decisions based on inaccurate or misleading information. Whether it's personal decisions, professional choices, or even participation in social and political matters, taking the time to verify the information's credibility is of utmost importance. 

Being cautious doesn't mean dismissing everything we come across, but rather adopting a more thoughtful and discerning approach. Here are some steps that can be helpful:

Before accepting any information, consider the source. Investigate the credibility and reputation of the website, author, or organization sharing the information.

Look for multiple reputable sources that confirm the facts. Independent verification from different sources can help establish accuracy.

Utilize fact-checking websites and tools that specialize in verifying the accuracy of claims and stories.

Approach information with a critical mindset. Be aware of potential biases or agendas that could influence the presentation of the information.

Understand the context in which the information is presented. Misleading information can sometimes be taken out of context to create a false narrative.

Avoid falling for sensationalized headlines or content designed to provoke an emotional response without providing credible evidence.

Encourage friends and family to practice the same level of caution and critical thinking when consuming and sharing information.

By being more vigilant and diligent in our approach to information, we can protect ourselves from being misled and avoid making incorrect decisions that may lead to challenging circumstances. In this era of information overload, it is essential to embrace a responsible and cautious attitude to navigate the complex web of data and ensure the accuracy and integrity of the knowledge we gain. Check out her post as at the end of the post she provides additional resources you should check out.

Check Engine Light for the brain

Our friends over at Tech Enhanced Life are working on an interesting project called “What is a “Check-engine-light for the Brain”?

Richard Caro described this idea a few years ago (here), in an article about “Gerontech Products we Wish Existed”.

The core concept of the Check-engine light,  has two parts:

·       There is some type of ongoing monitoring you can do that gives you a “score”, that relates in some way to “risk” of the thing you are monitoring (in this case cognition or dementia risk for example); and

·        There is some type of ongoing intervention you can do that can impact your score, so you can be proactive about maintaining “wellness”.

The innovators at Tech-Enhanced Life started to think it might be possible to create a sort of Do-it-Yourself (“DIY”) version of the check-engine-light for brain concept by combining some existing products.

Over the next view months, they will be exploring in this idea. Here is the idea (reprinted from their earlier article).

Cognition Monitor + History Over Time (+ Intervention?)

It's not news that Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are all too common, and big economic and clinical societal challenges. And for older adults facing the realities of growing older, the concern that something could happen to your mind is "a big deal". (See our "Topic Hub": Brain, Memory, Dementia Tech for background on this topic).

Of course, one can wait until one has dementia, and hope someone has come up with a "cure" by then. But for the more proactive, a preferred approach would be to try and "avoid it" — or reduce the risk of it happening to you.

 

There are two problems, which is where we see the opportunity for a new innovation.

Piece 1: Cognition Monitor

While not everyone wants something like this, there is a significant fraction of our explorer community who are interested in the idea of a "device" that could measure their level of cognition, and then track it over time.

And, if there was a proven intervention that could slow the decline of cognition, then the number of people interested in this would be much bigger.

An important aspect of this concept is that it would start to be used long before any cognitive decline manifested itself. In other words, it is a bit like an "engine warning light". It doesn't replace the visit to the doctor. It helps you remain "well" longer.

This "cognition monitor" would satisfy some specific criteria (see below).

Here are some critical features.

It does not need to be perfect, or absolute, although those would be good attributes. But it needs to measure and track a proxy for cognition or dementia risk over time. And tell you something about where you stand compared to some metric of "goodness or badness".

The cognition score needs to be given to you, as the older adult (ie you are in charge, not "the system") — with educational tools so you know what it means. It might need to involve a family member as well, or even instead, if there is significant cognitive impairment.

And ideally this would all happen at home, and not require a trip to see some type of healthcare person.

And it would be up to the older adult to decide who was allowed to see the cognition score, and what they would do about it (perhaps with pre-agreed involvement of a family member at certain score levels?).

And it would track changes over time. Because often it would be changes over time that would trigger a desire to "do something" rather than an absolute number.

And the score would need some peer-reviewed validation.

Especially important: the score would need to cover all the relevant aspects of cognition. It should not be limited to just one aspect (eg memory) if there are other aspects of cognition that matter for measuring dementia and cognition impairment.

In an actual product, maybe "cognition score" is the wrong terminology. This would need thought.

We note that clinicians today have some tools that let them measure aspects of cognition (they use these to help diagnose dementia, for example). These do not satisfy all the criteria above, but are an obvious starting point for this exploration.

Technology, AI and Ageism

In today's world, technology plays a crucial role in our daily lives. It helps us access information, communicate with others, and use various services. However, as a senior who may not be familiar with technology, it can be overwhelming and difficult to understand.

You may have heard about artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications in areas like healthcare, employment, and education. Some experts are now calling for a pause in the development of advanced AI systems to better manage innovation and prevent potential harms. These systems rely on data from the internet, which can be inaccurate and biased, leading to misinformation and reinforcing inequalities and prejudices such as racism, sexism, and ageism.

Ageism specifically refers to discrimination based on age, and it can have negative consequences for seniors, including social isolation, loneliness, financial insecurity, and reduced quality of life. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 6 million cases of depression worldwide are caused by ageism. Although older adults use the internet less frequently than younger people, the gap is slowly closing. Online services, social networks, and sharing platforms can empower seniors by keeping them informed, socially engaged, independent, and connected to their loved ones and communities.

Considering the growing population of older adults, it is important to ask whether AI systems also perpetuate age-related biases. A recent study explored this question and found that there is a digital divide between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not, with older adults facing barriers to access and limited social participation.

One reason for this divide is that older adults may have psychological barriers or physical disabilities that make it harder for them to access the internet. Additionally, digital interfaces are often not designed with older adults in mind. They may have small text, low-contrast colors, confusing technical terms, or complicated registration and authentication processes, making it challenging for seniors to use them effectively.

Another issue is the lack of available data on older adults, which makes it difficult to train AI systems or develop useful applications specifically tailored to their needs. Sometimes, the unique abilities and preferences of older adults are not considered during the design and development of technology, resulting in a low adoption rate among seniors.

Some designers mistakenly believe that the only digital applications older adults require are those related to managing their health. This bias reinforces the misconception that all seniors have health problems and neglects their other interests, needs, and aspirations. AI systems may then perpetuate this discrimination by relying on biased data and representations, further widening the gap between what older adults need and what is actually offered to them.

From an ethical and legal standpoint, there is currently no universal global framework for governing AI. The development of laws and regulations is challenging, especially considering their application across different jurisdictions. In Canada, for example, healthcare and human rights are shared between the federal government and the provinces, adding complexity to the task. Governments need to strike a balance between protecting the public, fostering innovation, and respecting intellectual property rights related to AI algorithms.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of digital technologies and AI systems. More and more people, including older adults, will be incorporating these technologies into their lives, whether for accessing healthcare or staying socially connected. To ensure the inclusion of older adults, we can take certain measures today, such as creating user-friendly interfaces that cater to their varying technological skills and providing training and resources to enhance their technological abilities.

By working together to address the challenges of digital ageism, we can create a digital world where people of all generations have an equal voice and opportunity to benefit from technology.

Inventing the future

In a recent email from Maria Brito, author of the Groove Newsletter, she said,  "Inventing the future is a creative endeavor that often emerges from a combination of knowledge, observation, experience, imagination, and cognitive flexibility." I am hopeful because I believe that humans learn from each other. We invent and build our future as a collective. Inventing the future is a remarkable journey, an adventure that pushes the boundaries of what we know and dare to envision what is yet to be. Here are my thoughts on this idea>

Knowledge serves as the foundation upon which we build the future. It is the accumulation of facts, theories, and discoveries that propel humanity forward. With knowledge, we understand the principles of the world and the intricacies of our existence. It provides us with the tools to analyze, dissect, and comprehend the complexities that lie before us.

Observation becomes the lens through which we perceive the world. It is the intelligent eye that notices the subtle patterns, the hidden connections, and the untapped potential. By observing, we gain insight into the problems that need solving, the gaps that need filling, and the opportunities that need seizing.

Experience lends depth and richness to our efforts. It is the repository of our past successes and failures, a treasury of lessons learned. Through experience, we gain wisdom and a profound understanding of the complexities of the human condition. It teaches us resilience, adaptability, and the ability to navigate the unpredictable waters of innovation.

Imagination fuels the fire of our invention. It is the realm of boundless possibilities where ideas are born and nurtured. Imagination liberates us from the constraints of the present and allows us to envision futures that surpass our current reality. It is the spark that ignites innovation, the catalyst that propels us forward on the path of progress.

Thinking flexibly means being able to move between different perspectives. It is the ability to embrace ambiguity, explore divergent paths, and connect seemingly unrelated dots. With intellectual flexibility, we break free from the shackles of established thought, opening up new vistas of innovation and discovery.

When these elements intertwine, a opus of creativity emerges. The inventor masters’ knowledge, observation, experience, imagination, and cognitive flexibility. Each note played, and each harmony crafted is a step towards shaping a future that surpasses our wildest dreams.

Inventing the future is not a solitary pursuit; it is a collective endeavor. It requires collaboration, the pooling of diverse talents and perspectives. By joining forces, we amplify our creative potential and unlock the new realm of possibility. Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and transform the world with our inventions.

So, let us embrace the adventure of inventing the future. Let us harness our knowledge, sharpen our observation skills, draw from our experiences, unleash our imagination, and cultivate our cognitive flexibility. By doing so, we become architects of change, visionaries who shape a brighter tomorrow. In the tapestry of time, let our contributions be the threads that weave together a future of limitless potential.

 

Do you spend enough time?

My thanks to my cousin Irene for this and she received it from Karen

The telephone rang.  It was a call from his mother. He answered it and his mother told him, "Mr.  Belser died last night.  The funeral is Wednesday."

Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days.

"Jack, did you hear me?"

"Oh, sorry, Mom.  Yes, I heard you.  It's been so long since I thought of him.  I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said.

"Well, he didn't forget you.  Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing.  He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over 'his side of the fence' as he put it," Mom told him.

"I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said.

"You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr.  Belser stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said.

"He's the one who taught me carpentry," he said.  "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him.  He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important.  Mom, I'll be there for the funeral," Jack said.

As busy as he was, he kept his word.  Jack caught the next flight to his hometown.  Mr.  Belser's funeral was small and uneventful.  He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away.

The night before he had to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time. Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment.  It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time.  The house was exactly as he remembered.

Every step held memories.  Every picture, every piece of furniture...Jack stopped suddenly...

"What'swrong, Jack?" his Mom asked.

"The box is gone," he said.

"What box?" Mom asked.

"There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk.  I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside.  All he'd ever tell me was 'the thing I value most,'" Jack said.

It was gone.  Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box.  He figured someone from the Belser family had taken it.

"Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said.

"I better get some sleep.  I have an early flight home, Mom."

It had been about two weeks since Mr.  Belser died. Returning home from work one day Jack discovered a note in his mailbox.  "Signature required on a package.  No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read.

Early the next day Jack went to the post office and retrieved the package.  The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago.  The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention.

"Mr.  Harold Belser" it read.

Jack took the box out to his car and ripped open the package.  There inside was the gold box and an envelope.

Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside.

"Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett.  It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter.  His heart racing, as tears filled his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box.  There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch.

Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing, he unlatched the cover.  Inside he found these words engraved: "Jack, Thanks for your time! -- Harold Belser."

"The thing he valued most was my time!"

Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days.*

"Why?" Janet, his assistant asked.

"I need some time to spend with the people I love and say I care for," he said.  "Oh, by the way, Janet, thanks for your time!"

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away."

Think about this.  You may not realize it, but it's 100 percent true.

1. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.

2. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.

3. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.

4. You mean the world to someone.

5. If not for you, someone may not be living.

6. You are special and unique.

7. Have trust sooner or later you will get what you wish for or something better.

8. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.

9. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take a hard look: you most likely turned your back on the world and the people who love and care for you.

10. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.

11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.

12. Always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know and you'll both be happy.

13. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.

To everyone who is reading this just now....

*"Thanks for your time."

Self and fear of AI part two

 The word "self" has its roots in ancient languages and has been used to describe human identity and individuality for centuries. The idea of belonging to a specific group, such as one's ethnicity, is also not a new concept. So, while humans may have the most complex social structures and cultures, which define our groups, they are not the only species that exhibit such behaviours. The belief that humans are superior to other species is a complex and multifaceted issue, and it is influenced by various cultural, historical, philosophical, and religious factors. Many animals have developed intricate social structures that are essential to their survival and well-being.

Several animal species have intricate social structures. For instance, primates such as chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, and orangutans have complex social structures that involve social hierarchies, communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. They also exhibit behaviours such as empathy, altruism, and social learning similar to human behaviour.

Other examples include elephants, dolphins, wolves, and certain bird species, which also have complex social structures that involve communication, cooperation, and even a sense of fairness and justice. These animals have developed intricate ways of communicating and interacting with each other to achieve their goals and ensure their survival.

While it is true that many animal species exhibit similar cognitive and social abilities to humans, there are several reasons why humans may still perceive themselves as superior to other species such as:

We view the world from our own perspective and prioritize our own interests above those of other species. This anthropocentric worldview has been reinforced by religious and philosophical beliefs that place us at the center of the universe.

We have made significant advancements in technology and science, which have allowed us to dominate and manipulate the natural world. This technological prowess may reinforce the perception of our superiority.

Many cultures have developed myths, stories, and narratives that emphasize the uniqueness and specialness of humans over other species. These cultural values may contribute to the belief that we are superior to other species.

Self and fear of AI part one

 Are you we/they/them/it/him/her/binary? Questions we did not even think about when I was growing up. Society is changing some would say for the good, others would say for the worse, while most of us don’t understand the issues. I know that younger readers may think that my generations are out of touch with the realities of the modern world. They may be correct.

Humans tend to think of our selves as the only wholly unique creations in nature. We  believe that we are the only wholly unique creations in nature because of our complex cognitive abilities, including self-awareness, consciousness, and the capacity for abstract thought. These abilities allow us to reflect on our own existence, contemplate the meaning of life, and ponder our place in the universe.

Furthermore, over thousands of years, we have developed sophisticated language and communication skills that allow us to articulate these thoughts and ideas, which reinforces our perception as unique creations.

Moreover, we have developed intricate social structures, cultures, and belief systems that further differentiate us, we think from other species, reinforcing the notion of exceptionalism. These factors combine to create a sense of superiority and uniqueness that contributes to the idea that we are the only wholly unique creations in nature.

We’ve never been so self-conscious about ourselves as we seem to be these days. Popular magazines are filled with advice on things to do with self: how to find it, identify it, nurture it, protect it, even, for special occasions, and weekends, and how to lose it transiently. There are instructive books, and best sellers on self-realization, self-help, and self-development. Groups of self-respecting people pay large fees for three-day sessions together, learning self-awareness. Self-enlightenment is taught in college.

You’d think, to read about it, that we’d only just now discovered selves. Having long suspected that there was something alive in there, running the place, separate from everything else, absolutely individual and independent, we’ve celebrated by giving it a real name. My self.

Current societal emphasis is on self-awareness and self-improvement. There is a proliferation of literature, courses, and workshops aimed at helping individuals discover and develop their sense of self. The term "self" has become a buzzword, and there seems to be a cultural obsession with the concept.

Do you collect stuff?

The truth is that all of the 'stuff' here on earth, we work so hard to buy and accumulate, does not mean a thing.

At the end of the day people, meaning our children or our loved ones, will be cleaning out our 'stuff', going through our 'stuff''.

The will have a very hard time figuring out what to do with all of our 'stuff'. We collected and accumulated this ‘stuff’ throughout our life and we may think it is important. It is not.

The only thing of value that remains are the memories and what we deposit into others.

May we all learn to spend less time accumulating ‘stuff’ and spend way more time making memories.

Hope and love

To give beyond reason, to care beyond hope, to love without limit; to reach, stretch, and dream, despite your fears.

This is a deep and selfless form of love and compassion. This type of love involves going above and beyond for someone, even when it may be difficult or seem unreasonable. It also involves caring for someone deeply and being willing to support them, even when there may be challenges or obstacles. This type of love is difficult, but it can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. It requires effort and commitment, but it can also bring joy, happiness, and a sense of purpose to life.

It is admirable to strive to give, care, and love without limits and to push beyond our fears. These qualities can help us to form strong and meaningful relationships with others and to make a positive impact in the world. It is important to remember, however, that it is also important to take care of ourselves and to set healthy boundaries in our relationships. It is not always possible or healthy to give, care, or love without limits, and it is okay to acknowledge and respect our own limits. It is important to find a balance and prioritize our own well-being while also striving to be there for others and to make a difference in the world.

Vision boards can empower or disempower you

Vision boards can be a powerful tool for setting and achieving goals, as they allow individuals to organize visually their aspirations and focus their intentions. However, if not used correctly, vision boards can also disempower individuals by creating unrealistic expectations and causing feelings of inadequacy if they do not meet goals. It’s important to keep in mind that vision boards are a tool to aid in goal-setting and should be used with a plan of action, self-reflection, and a healthy dose of realism.

Effective vision boards are teamed with plans of action work so they work together. Vision boards and plans of action work together by providing a clear visual representation of one’s goals, paired with a practical plan for achieving those goals. A vision board is a collage of images, quotes, and other visual elements that represent an individual’s aspirations, while a plan of action is a step-by-step strategy for achieving those aspirations.

For example, if a person’s vision board includes a picture of a dream home, a plan of action might include creating a budget, saving money, researching neighbourhoods, and consulting with real estate professionals. Similarly, if a person’s vision board includes a picture of a certain job title, a plan of action might include networking, gaining relevant experience, and researching job openings.

By combining the inspirational power of a vision board with the practicality of a plan of action, individuals can focus their intentions and work towards their goals in a structured and effective way. And it’s important to set realistic timelines and review progress periodically to make adjustments if necessary.

Canada doesn’t have a national workforce strategy for the care economy

Society could consider it a problem because a national workforce strategy for the care economy would provide a framework for addressing issues related to the workforce in this sector, such as recruitment and retention, training and professional development, and fair compensation. Without a national strategy, addressing these issues may be left to individual provinces and territories, resulting in inconsistent approaches and potential disparities in the quality and availability of care across the country. The main workers in this economy are women and since the pandemic, women in the care economy are retiring at a fast pace. What is being done to replace them?

There are a few potential strategies that could be implemented to address ageing and retiring workers in the care economy, particularly women:

Recruitment and retention. Efforts could be made to attract new workers to the care economy, such as offering competitive pay and benefits and creating opportunities for professional development and advancement. We could implement retention strategies to reduce turnover and keep experienced workers in the field.

Training and education: Investing in training and education programs for current and future care workers can help ensure that the workforce has the skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care.

Encourage men and youth to join the care economy workforce. Although men traditionally considered the care economy a female-dominated field encouraging men and youth to join the field, can help to diversify the workforce.

Increase the compensation, Care economy jobs are often low-paid and hard work, increasing the compensation can help attract and keep workers,

Automation: Investing in technology and automation solutions in the care economy to help ease some of the workloads on care workers and provide more efficient care.

It’s important to note that a comprehensive approach that addresses multiple factors is likely to be most effective in addressing aging and retiring workers in the care economy

Life Span may also have increased

Lifespan refers to the maximum number of years that a species can live. It is a biological measure that is determined by the genetic makeup of the species.

While life expectancy and lifespan are related, they are not the same thing. It is possible for a population to have a relatively high life expectancy, but for the maximum lifespan of the species to be much lower. It is also possible for a population to have a relatively low life expectancy, but for the maximum lifespan of the species to be much higher.

It is important to note that while we can have a good idea of life expectancy, lifespan is not a fixed number and can vary depending on the factors such as genetics, environment, lifestyle and healthcare.

In summary, life expectancy is a measure of mortality and an estimate of how long someone can expect to live, while lifespan is the maximum number of years a species can live. Equating the two can lead to a misunderstanding of the reality and potential of human life.

The lifespan of humans is a complex concept that is influenced by a wide variety of factors, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, and access to healthcare. On average, the global life expectancy for humans is around 72 years, but there are individuals who live much longer, and some who die much earlier.

The maximum known lifespan for a human is 122 years and 164 days, which was achieved by French woman Jeanne Calment. However, this is an exceptional case, and it’s not a typical number for human lifespan.

There are also several genetic conditions and diseases that can significantly shorten the lifespan of individuals, such as progeria, a rare genetic disorder causes sped up aging, which has an average lifespan of around 13 years.

It’s also important to note that the average lifespan of humans has been increasing over time, because of advances in medicine, public health, and living conditions. However, there are some indications that this trend may slow in some countries.

In summary, while the average lifespan of humans is around 72 years, the maximum recorded lifespan is 122 years and 164 days, and genetic conditions and diseases can shorten the minimum lifespan. Advances in healthcare, nutrition and living conditions have led to an increase in human lifespan.