Musings.

[darkness0within]

Fake news.

What is fake news?

On the face of it I judge it to be reports that are false in part, or in full. And to be honest I feel we are bombarded with fake news every day from the media. Governments and social media outlets.

As to why? That's easy, and also difficult to answer at the same time. The easy answer is to influence others to do certain things. Buy a product, gain influence one way or another to win elections, or muddy the waters on contentious issues. (oil and tobacco companies for example have been doing it for decades).  

The upshot of all this is that it's increasingly difficult to believe some of what you see, hear or read. Teasing the truth out becomes a matter of trying to read between the lines sometimes.

I'll create a Fake news story.

Russia at the moment is flexing it's military muscles in parts of the world. The Coved-19 pandemic they say is under control, and they say they have a vaccine. What if the pandemic is out of control, and that news stories from Russia are economical with the truth, or non existent as in a news blackout about the appalling death rate there. What if Russia is flexing its military just to say we are fine. But in reality they are a worried about other powers invading their territory? 

Of course this is false as far as I know. Unless someone knows better?  

[darkness0within]

A thought for today.

Seeing your president on the balcony, clearly not well trying to tell people that it's all ok was a surreal experience.

It reminded me of a scene in the Monty python film 'Monty python and the Holy Grail' for some reason. The 'bring out your dead' scene where someone was trying to get his father on the cart. I'm sure one or two of his opponents might want to use the cosh....

Your president seems to be trying to bluff his way out of the disease. He may, or may not get over his coved 19 experience, I think it's too early to tell. Actually I hope he does recover. And perhaps he might learn a lesson or two on this journey. One can hope. 

On a more general note I think a lot more people have to take this Coved 19 more seriously. Especially the young, but not exclusively. Party time is over for now and even though the young in general don't seem to be effected as badly it is unknown what long term effects it might have for them in the future, only time will tell on that.

The sad fact is it will take time to create a stable vaccine so the more you can do to protect yourself and your families the better chance there is to get through this.

Our way of life, here in the UK, and elsewhere around the globe has been changed, it is only when something like this happens that people realize what is actually important in life it seems to me. 

[darkness0within]

A matter of perspective.

Three weeks ago I attended a funeral of one of my friends mother. I knew her quite well but had not seen her for some time, Nor my friend. I had worked with him for many years, new his first wife well. (She died of cancer some years ago).

He retired early a few years ago, remarried (which I thought was great) I went to their wedding. Met up from time to time after, however we sort of lost contact over time. It's a sad fact that life can get in the way sometimes as you get bogged down with things in your own lives.

Back to the funeral... I always find them a sad affair, not for the person who has passed on, but for those left behind. My friends mother had a degenerative brain disorder. So sad as she was a lovely lady. 

After the funeral because of the social distancing rules we all stood outside chatting to my friend. His wife was talking to someone a few yards away, so I thought I'd say hello and have a quick chat.

I was a bit stunned when I was told through measured anger that I had let my friend down by not seeing him. That was not the exact wording, but that was the bottom line. what made it worse was others were close and listening to our conversation. I'm not one for making a fuss, especially on the day my friends mother was having her funeral. But I could of said that a friendship has to go both ways, I have had no contact from my friend either.

I said my goodbyes to my friend and left. It's a matter of perspective I feel.

 

[darkness0within]

A little of my music. I created this this month.

youtu.be/_wMVkBH8FgU

[darkness0within]

And here is another.

youtu.be/J1Q7xhrx6jw

[heartfelt7]

Hey there. So sad to hear of the hurt you experienced at your friend's mother's funeral. Sounds like that wife deliberately tried to hurt you out of jealousy of your friendship or just a way to keep you away. Sorry for the outsider's perspective. Maybe she is just a mean person.

[darkness0within]

It's ok Heartfelt7. It just took me by surprise at the time.

I think on reflection there was some pent up emotion that my friends wife has had to deal with. I think its been a very tough year for so many people so far.

[darkness0within]

I think pretty much everyone has been effected some way or another by this virus that is spreading around the globe. It is clear that this will be with us for quite a while.

Most governments around the world are trying there best to protect people(with a few exceptions), and their economies at the same time. But this I believe is a difficult balancing act. Already some people around the world are not listening to their governments, some believe it's a conspiracy to take civil liberties away from the people. Or feel that they won't get the virus, and if they did it won't be too bad. Demonstrating in the streets, or just ignoring the advice given.

Life for now will be very different. What we have taken for granted has now come into focus.

I personally feel that we all need to be mindful of our situation. And of the people around us. As in life generally each individual has to take responsibility for their actions in this matter. If they do or not is always their choice.

When you hear of some of the consequences of contracting this virus (apart from death), and some are long term it does make you wonder why some are so blasé about it? Especially as it seems you may be able to catch it again as the antibodies don't seem to stay in the body long term from research so far into it.

There will be people out there that probably will not catch it, or may well be immune to it. But would you want to chance it?

 

[darkness0within]

Colonize Mars?

Hold on Mr Musk. Our future does lie in the outer reaches of space; however as a race we need to grow a bit more before forging an empire.

We have to learn to look after what we have before we spread out into space in a big way. Otherwise we will only do the same as we've done on this planet, pollute and degrade it.

Always the motives are to exploit what resources that could be found for the advancement of the few. A private government/dictatorship where the population is veted for the benefit of the leadership.

In time our need to go to the stars will come, but it will need to be a joint effort by all. Once we've learned to finally be at peace with ourselves and others.

If some extertarestial were viewing us today they would probably think back to a time when they themselves were at a crossroads in their evolution. How they might of survived that time is anyones guess. Perhaps they might of learned from their own mistakes eventually... Let us hope in time we finally will.

[heartfelt7]

I don't know when I've agreed with a post as much as I do this one. We are not a species that works together for the benefit of the whole. We don't even realize what the whole is.

[darkness0within]

Nov 22, 2020 11:20:07 GMT -6 heartfelt7 said:

 We are not a species that works together for the benefit of the whole. We don't even realize what the whole is.

So true Heartfelt7.

But there are many that dedicate their lives to the betterment of humanity in various fields and professions. Too few admittedly, but the seeds of a possible future exists.

We still live in a tribal society that has its roots firmly bedded in the past, and it will take time to move on from this. We are a very long way from being as one with each other. evolution can be a slow process for sure.

[darkness0within]

Covid 19.

Well... It appears I have the virus.

From my own experience my first symptoms started on Monday with a loss of taste and smell and feeling generally unwell. at that point I left work and arranged for a proper test. Before that my wifes friend brought some rapid test kits for us. my wife tested negative, mine was positive. which was confirmed later by the main test. so far the symptoms have not developed further so I am greatful for that. But as you can imagine I have been trying to shield my wife as best I can, which is difficult.

Now I'm going to write down a few choice words on why I have contracted this. And my feelings on some of my co workers.

We have signs everywhere telling people to put on masks in the building if you are less than two meters from someone else. the number of people permitted in any room. and to keep social distancing. Now that is quite a simple set of instructions. I would think most would have grasped the concept, and why it was important to do these things. And should be policed by management. It's just a shame that I work with a bunch of fucking dimwits in the main, (with one or two exeptions). I have followed the rules to the letter but can't always factor in the idiot factor.

Our tea room has a sign saying 'only two people aloud in at any one time'. Frequently there are five plus, without masks, and with windows tight shut because its a little cold outside. poor mites. god forbid they might get a little cold.

My workplace has a sign saying 'Only one person aloud in at any one time'. Clearly if I am in there, no one else should enter. But no, its been like open house for quite some time. I've politely told people to leave, but still they just walk in and out (without masks) as if they have a season pass. I have talked to my manager about this and I just get a shrug in the main. No balls it seems. I've even had police, (I am a support worker for our fine boys in blue) Come in with a mask on, then take it off to talk to me. I'm not sure that if I were able to gather all the brain cells from the lot of them there would be enough to fill an egg cup.

To those that are taking this pandemic seriously I ask that you continue to follow the guidlines as best you can.

As for the others... Try harder... Try a fucking lot harder. People are dying out there partly because of the dumb fucks. Take responsibility for your actions.

[darkness0within]

Just an update.

I consider myself very lucky thus far. Symptoms have remained mild, though I get tired quickly. my wife still remains well, and still tests negative. only a couple of days or so to go before I can say I'm not infectious. It has been quite stressful for my wife.

So I'll be back to work next week.

I've not had any contact from work, which I feel is shocking, but not unexpected. As far as I know they're still there instead of isolating as they should be. well good luck with that if that is the case.

I've been going through events before contracting Covid 19 and it could only have come from my work enviroment. Well it's academic now, but I would hope people are taking this more seriously now there.

[darkness0within]

Update...

i've had phone contact with one of my work mates. (One of the sensible ones). our workplace is closed and everyone has been told to self isolate. Effectively it will only be three working days so not a great deal for the firm. I don't think they had a choice in the matter.

My hope is that some people will take this situation more seriously in the future for their own sake.

[anirbas]

Oh, no, Darkness! I absolutely hate to hear you have contracted Covid! But, thrilled to hear you are having a "light" case of it.
May you be healed as quickly as humanly possible, my friend. You, and the Missus, hang in there.

[darkness0within]

Thank you Anibas.

I consider myself very lucky, Though its been unpleasant, I have come out the other side. Still feel tired, but that will get better in time.

My wife still is negative, so I'm really pleased about that. Not as much as she is though I'm sure.

[anirbas]

So, Darkness, five months down the line, how are you feeling after recovering from CVD-19?

Do you feel you are physically back to where you were before you contracted the virus?

I have received my first vaccine. And I will receive my second vaccine, tomorrow, while I am at work.
Our in-store pharmacy is now giving the inoculations. I hope you and your wife have access
to the vaccines, now. Perhaps, have already had them.

Stay well, dear friend.

[darkness0within]

Hi anibas.

I feel ok thank you. No long covid. so I feel very lucky to be honest.

I hope you and yours are all ok?

My wife and I have both had two doses of the vaccine now, so we should be ok for now.

But that does not mean either of us have let our guard down. Unlike many who seem to be living in an alternative universe. including those I work with.

I really think people do not understand the implications of their actions. and do not understand the words 'pandemic' and 'variants', and what that potentially could mean to them. If this virus is allowed to spread it will mutate faster than it would otherwise. with possible dire consequences.

In my opinion jetting off to foreign lands to catch a few rays is at best a little foolhardy.

but as I've said before, it's down to the individual to make their choices... I would just say chose wisely...

[phantasm]

Good to see you seem to be doing fine, Darkness. Lucky you only caught a piece of it and not the whole hog.

I myself have had two rounds of Pfizer and as of today I am in the clear.

[anirbas]

Hello, Darkness!

Good to know you are not suffering any long term effects from your bout with CVD-19, sir! Equally good to know,
you and the Missus are now both fully vaccinated. For the present moment, at the very least.

I received my second dose of the Moderna vaccine last Wednesday. I did not feel any side effects from the first
vaccine, other than tasting it in my mouth as soon as the medicine entered the flesh of my arm. Haha. I know that sounds
weird. But, I can always taste any injection, as soon as it passes through the needle. However, the second dose, kind of slowed
me down for about a day and half. Approximately fifteen minutes after I had the vaccine, I quickly had the chills, a deep body ache,
and felt lethargic. I could barely keep my eyes open and I was still at work. After an hour and a half, I left the job,
drove home and went to bed. I slept through most of the next day and night, as well. Then, I woke up, right as rain.
Felt great since then.

I am still wearing a mask at work and in public. At this point, my job requires it until two weeks after your second dose.
I don't know about your point on the planet, but, a good third of folks are already going sans masks, here. Attending large
family events and public events, etc... Including my immediate and extended family. I, like you, prefer to err on the side
of caution. I believe I shall continue to wear my mask at work, for at least a period of time. See what happens with the part
of the herd that refused to vaccinate. In my state, only a third of the adult population is fully vaccinated at this time.
According to statistics. If variants hit this bunch, I don't want what they are going to get.

[anirbas]

Hi ya, Phantasm!

Good to know you are in the clear, vaccine wise, too! As I stated in the above comments to our friend Darkness,
I also have now received both vaccines, the Moderna version. In less than two weeks now, I will be in the clear.

David received the J&J one shot version this past Tuesday. They offered him either the Moderna two shot version,
or the notorious Johnson & Johnson version. He had no side effects.

My daughter Ivy had the Phizer version and had a reaction, that is being called, "Covid arm". The injection sight
became a red knot about the size of a quarter; and the entire upper was swollen and hot to the touch. Rather
like it was running a fever. Weird. The pharmacist told her, she must receive her second dose in the other arm,
and it is likely that arm will react in the same manner.

[darkness0within]

I feel it is very strange that some people in the UK still don't get what is happening around them.

It will be no surprise to me that the unlocking of the last stage of lockdown will be announced today. You only have to look at what is happening with the infection rates (though still fairly small) to understand it was going to happen.

The Delta variant they say is on average 60% more transmissible. And I feel personally it would be prudent to just hold back a little while longer.

I feel sorry for the businesses that have been hamstrung at this time. But unfortunately it has to be.

[darkness0within]

A reimagining of the past.

It is held by many that the past is written by the victors. Be it by conflict, or just through popular thoughts of people through time.

The first thing to mention here is... We all have different views of what is going on in our world due to where we sit in society, and what we feel is important to us at any one time. There may be common threads that intertwine through all of this, but there are many shades of truth and lies that spread through populations and sometimes it is what is in vogue that becomes the 'truth', or the 'lie' of our time.

The popular truths or lies of today may not be all they seem. But we gain comfort in them nonetheless as solid examples of society in our time.

We tend to judge the past by the standard morals of today, sometimes forgetting that we are here because of our forefathers who held very different views to you or I, and saw the world in a much simpler way.

Inequality and brutality were far more common back then. The echo's of which are still with us.  Slavery still is with us today in many countries of the world now run by rouge nations or criminal gangs.

Civilization has a very thin veneer. But if you scratch the surface.

The past colours our future. But instead of trying to burry it, it should be used as a how not to guide. destroying it will only  make the same mistakes over and over again. 

[darkness0within]

So... The UK will have it's covid restrictions lifted on the 19th July.

Our third wave is building steadily, but it is hoped by many that because the majority of the population is now vaccinated we will get through this with minimal casualties. I personally think this all depends on what the general population do in the next few weeks.

Seeing the crowds in London for the Euros final, and the inevitable mixing of fans round the country watching it. also what will be going on in pubs and clubs after the 19th I suspect things are going to go sour fairly soon.

Some People are just sick of the restrictions and feel it's an infringement of their civil liberties, and I can understand that. But any disease cares not about these things and thrives on free movement. and it gives the disease a chance to evolve further.

We will just have to wait and see what the outcome will be. But I don't think we'll have to wait too long.

[darkness0within]

Climate change has become a topic of conversation that has at long last galvanised some governments into action. Though perhaps not enough so far. And in my opinion far too late to offset what is coming our way in the near future, which is just the beginning of change.

If climate change had been taken more seriously in the past the extreme measures that will have to be made now would have been far less painful generally for populations.

Oil, gas and coal industries have been alleged to have been trying to, at best deflect the cause of global warming away from their industries. But the writings on the wall now for these industries. They know it as some now try to change their public image to champions for green energy.

I think a lot of people do not realize the consequences of a warming world. The economic, and the human cost could be high.

On the human cost, famine will become much more prevalent in equatorial regions spreading much further north and south. As harvests fail year after year more conflict will erupt in these regions fighting over the dwindling resources available. The fighting will spread to areas that still would be able to grow crops and still have drinkable water and other resources. Refugees will migrate north and south to escape the fighting, and the harsher conditions. This of course has already happened, and is happening today, but the scale in the future will be nothing anyone has ever seen before.

 
The ice caps melting will swallow up huge tracts of land as the seas rise, causing the same problems in other low lying parts of the world.
Add to that the super storms that will decimate other areas you can begin to see we all potentially could be in quite a predicament.

Economically there will be no country unscathed from the ravages of global warming. Refugees will swarm to countries that they feel they could be safe. Governments will struggle to feed the swelling populations for even the developed nations would be severely hurt by the changes. Food and water would be in short supply and public unrest could spill into conflict.

So…

Governments need to act now. Not tomorrow. Not in ten years. Now.

What world governments will have to do will not be popular as the economic and personal consequences for many of us will be dire for a time. Our way of life probably will have to change radically to just stop the worst of the climate changes. It’s now inevitable that some changes to the climate will continue whatever we do. What we would be able to do is soften the impact so that the effects do not last as long as it would if we did nothing. Perhaps our great, great grandchildren will be able to thank us for giving them a chance to live in a better world.

Mass extinction of plants and animals has already started and will continue over the decades as the climate changes. Accelerating what is already happening due to our influence on habitats. Our diverse planet will be very much less diverse in the future. What we see today will not be there for future generations.
I make no apologies for this stark seeming post. The truth is that what I’ve written is not the worst case scenario by a long way. And I think a lot of governments are just beginning to realize how bad things could go. But they need to act now.

[darkness0within]

Afghanistan.

It actually fills me with sadness watching the speeding disintegration of Afghanistan.

The lives that have been lost is countless over the years and rising. A war that has rumbled on for decades that seems to have no end.

The Taliban are intent on creating a country to their religious vision. And to us it seems a totally alien concept. Like going back to the middle ages in fact.

Strict religious laws with punishments not handed out by the west in hundreds of years.

I've not much more to say about this at the moment... But I will come back to this.

 

[darkness0within]

Afghanistan continued.

We are truly watching a disaster unfolding. The consequences of which we will all feel the ripples of over the years.

It certainly has echoes of an earlier conflict and lessons need to be learned on how we deal with conflicts in the future.

One thing that needs to be learnt more than anything else is to try and understand more about the culture of any country. its values and morals. the way people tick. 

When corruption is so rife you will never have a true picture of what is actually happening on the ground. The Afghan army on paper was ready to repel the Taliban. However the reports of units with low or no ammunition and food. Phantom soldiers on the payroll that commanders were pocketing the money for it would seem. Add to that the inevitable infiltration of Taliban into the ranks you begin to see the way it was going to go.

Our forces, combined with the Afghan forces seemed hold the status quo. Once our forces started to pull out, the low moral of the Afghan forces went down further.

It is just a sad state of affairs... More on this later.    

[phantasm]

pssssst-- typo. 'Moral' ought to be 'Morale' [with an 'e' at the end].

[phantasm]

The real problem with Afghanistan, at least one of them--

A random American: "Hey, remember that time the Soviet Union invaded the country? Those dumb-asses. Now we're in the country. Let's read up on the history of that war and figure out how that country screwed up, and then not do what they did."

Said no American, ever. Sad and unfortunate. One of our problems in America is that we are mostly an ahistorical bunch of people. Spellcheck doesn't recognize that word as a a word, but it is. That is, we are a people who don't think in historical terms. We don't take history into account much. It's a kind of cultural illiteracy we have in this country.........

[darkness0within]

It depends on which version of history you'd be reading as to what happened Phantasm.

The Taliban had help as pawns in a global kind of chess at the time of the Russian invasion. Unfortunately they made it to the other side of the board to become something more. This is an age old problem that should of been taken into account.

Don't underestimate your opponents. Or your 'allies'. Now they have the past training to hand down to others, and hardware at their disposal. Do not think the Taliban are just a rag tag army. At their core they are much more regimented than you think.

They are a danger to be very mindful of.