#a true visionary ahead of its time

[metamorphesque]

I don't know how unpopular this opinion is but I strongly hold the position that society today seems unable to differentiate "Art" from entertainment, and this blurring of lines harms both. _ what do you mean?

What I mean to say is that society nowadays fails to recognize the fundamental differences between art and entertainment. Thinking that they are the same or interchangeable does a disservice to both. To me, it's not an "art vs. entertainment" situation. Rather than opposing them, the distinction lies in recognizing their complementary roles because a healthy individual needs both art and entertainment, but for very different reasons.

Entertainment, of course, entertains us; it delights and validates us by affirming our existing beliefs and emotions. It's there to make us feel good — a safe space that doesn't challenge us, as it has been created specifically for our needs and is catering to our preferences. However, it leaves us unchanged and not transformed. Entertainment is produced because there is a public demand for it.

Art, on the other hand, is meant to change and transform us. It's not always delightful, entertaining or self-affirming. On the contrary, it can sometimes feel like an attack on our beliefs and the reality we think we’re living in. Art can be uncomfortable, even disruptive, and by being so, it forces us to engage with it on a deeper level, challenging our perspectives and encouraging us to evolve. Unlike entertainment, art is not made because there is public demand for it. To be more precise, the demand for art exists, but it doesn't come from us — the public; art meets the demands of the time. Real artists are those who can discern the lessons and demands of the time and make them digestible for the public. While entertainment caters to an audience’s desires, art challenges its audience, often presenting ideas or emotions they may not have asked for but need to confront. It’s not about pleasing or fulfilling expectations; instead, art serves as a catalyst for intellectual and emotional growth, pushing society to reflect, adapt and progress.

My beloved Armenian poet Paruyr Sevak has a very thought-provoking piece that, I think, is about real artists. I'll present a rough translation: "They come unoften, yet never too late. / They are born at exactly the right time. / And they get ahead of time itself, / Which is why they are not forgiven".

The role of a true artist goes far beyond technical skill or the ability to produce aesthetically pleasing works that will be liked by many and, thus, make a fortune. A true artist serves as a visionary, a truth-teller and a catalyst for change. They push us to reflect deeply and think critically about the world around us. This is why, in the absence of such people (and I strongly believe that we live in such times), individuals become more susceptible to propaganda, manipulation or conformity, as there are fewer voices prompting them to critically examine their environment. Additionally, without these voices, society loses touch with its emotional depth, becoming more disconnected, indifferent and apathetic to the suffering or experiences of others.

True artists are what we need today. There are many discussions held online about whether today’s celebrities should address "political" issues and the problems we face as humans.

My answer to this is no, at least not for everyone that society considers an "artist." Most of these individuals are mere entertainers who are there solely for entertainment purposes (I would be quick to add that some of them even fail at that). Dozens of them can't even form comprehensive sentences in their mother tongues; how can we expect them to express trustworthy opinions on grave issues? This is one of the reasons why it is highly dangerous to confuse entertainment with art.

[grimoirey]

The Suit of Wands:

A Journey

The Suit of Wands tells a story of fire—the spark of life, creativity, passion, and will. It is a journey through the realm of spirit and inspiration, where the seeker follows the flickering flame of desire and ambition. Here, action and energy reign, and the soul learns to harness its inner power to create, transform, and lead. The wands are the tools of visionaries, a reflection of the burning force that drives all things toward growth and change.

The Ace of Wands bursts forth as the first flicker of this divine flame, a hand emerging from the clouds, holding a single wand glowing with life. This is the beginning of a new creative impulse, the spark of inspiration that ignites the soul's passion. The seeker stands on the threshold of possibility, where the energy of creation flows freely. It is a moment of pure potential, where the fire within awakens, urging the soul to pursue its dreams with courage and excitement. The Ace is the symbol of raw, untapped energy waiting to be directed toward a new venture.

With this fire, the Two of Wands arrives, where the seeker now stands at the crossroads of choice. Holding a wand in one hand and the world in the other, the figure gazes out over a vast horizon, contemplating the possibilities. This is the card of planning, vision, and the decision to take action. The seeker has the power and passion, but now must choose the path forward, balancing desire with careful strategy. The world is within reach, but the way forward requires clarity of intent and the courage to step beyond the familiar.

As the decision is made, the Three of Wands shows the seeker watching their ships sail out toward the horizon, a symbol of progress and expansion. The energy has been set in motion, and now the journey truly begins. This is the card of enterprise, where the seeker’s vision starts to manifest in the world. The wands planted in the ground symbolize stability, while the figure looks forward with anticipation. The fire within is now moving outward, driving the seeker toward new horizons, success, and adventure.

But soon, the flames of success begin to attract attention. In the Four of Wands, the seeker finds themselves in a moment of celebration, as a joyful gathering takes place beneath a canopy of flowers and wands. This is a card of harmony, achievement, and communal joy. It marks a moment of stability and completion—a foundation has been built, and now it is time to rest, reflect, and enjoy the fruits of one’s labor. The fire of creation has brought warmth and connection, where the community joins in the celebration of shared success.

Yet, as the journey continues, the Five of Wands brings conflict. A group of figures clash with their wands, each striving to make their voice heard. Here, the seeker faces competition, struggle, and the chaos that can arise when many forces come together. It is a time of challenges and friction, where the fire of ambition creates tension between individuals. But within this conflict lies the potential for growth and understanding, as the seeker learns to navigate the competing desires of the world while staying true to their own vision.

As the dust settles, the Six of Wands shows the seeker riding triumphantly through the crowd, crowned with victory. This is the card of public recognition, success, and the rewards of perseverance. The seeker has overcome challenges and now basks in the glory of achievement, admired and respected by others. The fire of passion has been kindled into a beacon of success, and the world acknowledges the effort and energy that have led to this moment. Yet, the lesson here is to remain humble, for the journey is not yet complete, and greater challenges may still lie ahead.

Soon enough, the Seven of Wands brings those challenges to the forefront, as the seeker stands atop a hill, defending themselves against opposing forces. This is the card of standing one’s ground, of defending what has been earned against those who seek to challenge or take it. The fire of willpower now burns fiercely as the seeker battles for their position. It is a time of courage, resilience, and determination, where the soul must trust in its own strength to hold onto the victories won. The lesson here is to stay firm and believe in oneself, even when the odds seem overwhelming.

In the Eight of Wands, the struggle gives way to swift movement and momentum. Eight wands fly through the air, signaling rapid progress and the acceleration of events. This is the card of action, where the fire of inspiration and effort now moves quickly, propelling the seeker toward their goals with unstoppable force. It is a moment of energy in motion, where everything seems to align, and the path forward opens with speed and clarity. The lesson here is to embrace the flow of energy and trust in the momentum of life’s unfolding events.

But as the journey races ahead, the Nine of Wands brings a pause—a wounded figure stands, holding a wand for support, surrounded by the others they have planted. This is the card of perseverance and endurance, where the seeker, though battered and weary, remains resolute. The fire within still burns, but the soul is tired from the many battles fought along the way. The lesson here is one of resilience, where the seeker learns that, despite the hardships, they have the strength to continue. It is a time to gather inner resources and prepare for the final push.

The final push comes with the Ten of Wands, where the seeker is now burdened by the weight of their achievements, carrying ten wands upon their back. This is the card of responsibility, where success has brought great burdens and the fire of passion now feels heavy. The seeker has reached a point of overload, where the weight of ambition and effort may feel overwhelming. The lesson here is to learn the art of delegation, to release some of the load and trust others to share in the work. It is a reminder that even the brightest fire can burn out if not tended with care.

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/

From this place of burden, a fresh spark appears in the Page of Wands, a youthful figure holding a single wand, looking out with curiosity and excitement. This is the card of new beginnings, fresh ideas, and the renewal of passion. The seeker is ready to embark on a new adventure, filled with enthusiasm and creative energy. The fire of the wands is reborn here, rekindling the joy of exploration and the thrill of new possibilities. The Page teaches that the journey of creation is ever-cycling, and each end is the beginning of something new.

The Knight of Wands charges into the scene, riding a fiery steed, his wand raised high. This is the card of action, ambition, and unbridled energy. The Knight is fearless, driven by passion and desire, ready to take bold risks and pursue his goals with vigor. His fire burns brightly, and his determination is unstoppable. Yet, there is a warning here—though his energy is powerful, it can sometimes lead to impulsiveness or recklessness. The lesson of the Knight is to balance enthusiasm with wisdom, ensuring that the fire is directed wisely.

The Queen of Wands follows, seated on her throne with a sunflower in one hand and a wand in the other. She embodies the essence of confidence, charisma, and creativity. The Queen is the master of her inner fire, using it to inspire and nurture others. She is warm, generous, and magnetic, drawing people toward her with her radiant energy. This is the card of self-assurance and mastery of one’s creative power. The Queen teaches the seeker to embrace their inner light, to lead with grace, and to use their fire to uplift and empower those around them.

Finally, the King of Wands stands as the culmination of the journey, a ruler whose fire burns with steady, focused intensity. He is the leader, the visionary, the one who commands with authority and wisdom. The King has mastered the energy of the wands, using his passion and creativity to build something lasting and meaningful. His fire is not chaotic but controlled, directed toward the greater good. He teaches the seeker that true leadership comes from knowing how to wield power with integrity and purpose, using the fire of spirit to inspire others and shape the world.

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/

And so, the story of the Wands is one of creation, passion, and transformation. It is a journey through the fires of inspiration, where the seeker learns to harness their inner flame, guiding it toward growth, action, and fulfillment. Along the way, the fire of the soul is tested, sometimes burning too brightly, sometimes flickering in the wind, but always leading the way toward greater understanding of one’s purpose and power.

[applesauce42069]

I can only guess, of course, trying to get into Hertzel's head and all. In the context of the time of his writing, his actions can definitely be explained, even if they're ultimately not right. He was convinced that the only way for his movement to succeed in its ultimate goal was with the support of a European power. Must remember that he started out in the late 19th century, when several European empires were at their peak. To speak of true independence, in a land controlled by a colonial power, was tantamount to heresy, especially for jews, who were already fearful of angering their rulers and feeding into conspiracies of dual loyalty. The journal Hertzel was an editor for pressured him to delay the publication of his "manifesto" book (Der Judenstaat) for that very reason, that he might become the "favorite of the antesemites" (among other reasons, like the fact they would become associated with him)

Hertzel did not cave into this pressure, of course, because he believed that safety via assimilation was impossible anyway.

The Greek war of independence was still in living memory at the time. It's a good example of the kind of things you needed to gain self-determination in the age of European powers. The Greeks were massively assisted by multiple other empires in their fight against the Ottomans (chiefly the British, French, and Russian empires. The war still lasted almost a decade).

In the excerpt you posted, Hertzel is clearly writing to the British. It's nothing if not pragmatic, I suppose, to use the language of the people he needed the support of. It would be long after his death that the Zionist movement coalesced around the idea of true sovereignty, instead of a half-independence under the tacit approval of a colonial power. Pretty rich of 972 magazine to apply Hertzel's writing to the movement that was very much in its infancy when he died, and still had pretty dramatic changes ahead of it under many other visionaries, but I digress.

I think you're right and I think these are interesting and important things to consider. However, using harmful methods and language, even if they were invented by someone else, even if you're trying to appeal to said people, is inexcusable and we need to hold ourselves to a higher standard. This is why in my experiences with Zionism I prefer to leave Herzl in the past.

[lesbianchemicalplant]

“Midnite Cruiser” is sung from the point of view of a hipster longing for the attentions of some other, greater hipster, whom he calls “Felonious.” “Felonious” might be an easier word to sing than “Thelonious,” as in Thelonious Sphere Monk, who played with his right and left hands in different dimensions and made the piano sound like broken china sutured together with gold. Weird choice of pseudonym, though—Monk’s most notable criminal conviction was a sixty-day workhouse bid on Rikers Island for his “possession” of a baggie of smack that had actually been thrown from Monk’s car window by his passenger, Bud Powell. And some part of Thelonious’s “madness” was undiagnosed bipolar disorder—but so goes the romance of jazz, which is so often about professorial dorks building questionable monuments to Black pain.

Even at this point, in the early ’70s, jazz in the Steely Dan symbology is inexorably tied to the past. “The time of our time has come and gone” is how the narrator addresses Felonious, implying that they’re both marooned in the present. The narrator wants Felonious to step off the bandstand and shake his hand; he wants to be validated as a fellow traveler, to be transported out of the ordinary by contact with visionary Blackness. Felonious occupies the same space for the narrator of “Midnite Cruiser” that someone like Monk would have in the personal cosmology of a young Fagen or Becker. The narrator envies Felonious’s freedom from social stricture, but he also imagines that his own sense of being at odds with his content gives him something in common with Felonious, a kinship he longs to have affirmed. What the narrator is saying to Felonious is I’m like you. I’m more like you than I’m like the people I’m supposed to be like.

In other words, he’s longing to slip the skin of his whiteness and be a brother who’s free. Harry Styles could sing this song, but could he get away with writing it, in a world that’s come to understand the white longing to channel Black cool as an expression of privilege? We now have the concept of “romantic racism” to explain what’s happening in a song like this—and for Sal Paradise looking out the window in On the Road and wishing to “exchange worlds with the happy, true-hearted, ecstatic Negroes of America,” for Norman Mailer extolling the bravery of the White Negro (“the source of Hip is the Negro for he has been living on the margin”), for Ralph Bakshi’s Fritz the Cat, rediscovering his capacity for animal passion by hanging out with blackface crows under a grimy tie-dye sky.

Time hasn’t been kind to Kerouac and Mailer’s dreams of seceding from white hegemony. We understand now that there’s something unseemly about white hipsters who identify with Blackness, since they can never assume the risks that come with it, or give up the power white America affords boys born into it. But back when Donald and Walter were coming up, most white hipsters didn’t think about it that way. Which means “Midnite Cruiser” is a little bit ahead of its time—for 1972, and for right now. There are countless songs in the pop canon that are in some way or another symptomatic of the white man’s yearning to possess Black cool, but there are very few songs about that yearning, and “Midnite Cruiser” is one of them. Steely Dan are as guilty as anyone else of borrowing from Black music to advance themselves commercially and artistically, but in the ’70s they’re pretty much the only [white] people actively thinking, and writing, about the debt they’ve incurred through that involuntary transaction with history and the essential unrepayability of that debt.

They haven’t solved the problem because there’s no solution. They will go on to write better songs about it than “Midnite Cruiser.” The title track on Pretzel Logic is “Midnite Cruiser” stripped of anything romantic; its narrator longs to travel back in time and play the minstrel circuit, convinced he’ll be recognized as the genius he is. And in “Deacon Blues” the story comes full circle, and the romance is restored. Whereas “Midnite Cruiser” lionized the jazz musician as dissolute trickster-genius-madman, turning actual Black artists into stereotypes in the process, “Deacon Blues” slyly romanticizes the white hipster outsider’s romance with that same stereotype, rendering it touching and funny precisely because it’s quixotic and impossible. Donald Fagen once said, “Deacon Blues” was “about as close to autobiography as our tunes get.”

Even in “Midnite Cruiser,” though, there’s already a slight satirical sting. “Drive me to Harlem,” the narrator begs Felonious, “or somewhere the same,” anticipating later Steely Dan songs like “Bodhisattva” and “Aja,” where deluded white guys will long for a muddled idea of the mystical East. The “constellation of enthusiasms” that brought Donald and Walter together also included the writings of Terry Southern, whose short-story collection Red-Dirt Marijuana and Other Tastes—published in 1967, the year the founders of Steely Dan met at Bard—is full of deluded white protagonists who seek out Black authenticity and wind up clowning themselves, or worse. [...]

Walter was Donald’s bohemian muse, and their collaboration was a platonic love story. Donald grows up alienated in the suburbs, builds a memory palace to safeguard an idea of jazz that’s already be-bopping into antiquity by the time he discovers it, and eventually meets Walter, who likes and hates a lot of the same things he does, who in particular shares his disdain for the pop present but is also in some essential way a product of the mythic elsewhere Donald’s been yearning for. Walter’s from the city or at least its outer boroughs, Walter has a painful personal history, Walter has played in bands already, and when they start writing together Walter gives Donald permission to become the thing he’s supposed to become. Walter, in other words, might be the real Midnite Cruiser—the gentleman loser Donald’s always wanted to shake his suburbanness and become. So the end of Steely Dan is built into the band at its inception because once they’re a working band, it’ll be Walter who gets into drugs and almost chases the dragon to his doom and has to drop out of sight for a while, leaving Donald to figure things out on his own.

Quantum Criminals: Ramblers, Wild Gamblers, and Other Sole Survivors from the Songs of Steely Dan, by Alex Pappademas and Joan LeMay (2023)

ISBN 9781477324998 | google books preview

[theseventhoffrostfall]

I won't spoil Alan wake ii if you havent played it yet, but ngl while I dont think Kojima is bad at all, its really opening my eyes a bit. Sam Lake (real last name is finnish or a lovecraftian god) uses what he's inspired by way more integrated into his games. And the interplay of multiple forms of media including live action and music and, god help me for uttering this overused phrase, playing with the fourth wall, is something that makes Kojima look like simultaneously like an amateur and an elitist at the same time.

Let's say Kojima likes David Bowie. He'd have a character named David Bowie, Otacon would call in on the comms and say "Snake, that's david bowie. He's named after David Bowie the singer. He was a glam rock singer active from the late 1960s to 2016 most known for Ziggy Stardust" and the entire thing would be a thinly veiled excuse to hang out with David Bowie and put his likeness in the game and maybe release some haute couture sunglasses or something, while also namedropping extremely esoteric things Kojima can feel smart over knowing people will have to go to Wikipedia to understand the concepts he stayed up last weekend reading about. I cant really give an example for Alan Wake/Control like that entirely because everything is so worked in. Yeah its clearly Twin Peaks and X-Files and True Detective and a bit of that sparse Scandinavian Noir and some Lovecraft as well. But everything is blended together without coming to a screeching halt while you listen to the games creator tell you about the stuff he likes.

Not that I dislike MGS or anything, but in terms of "visionary" creators I think Sam Lake has just pulled ahead of Kojima in a really big way. He feels more like those TGWTG people who were only there as a stepping stone to their big hollywood career (which never panned out) and likewise Kojima treats his games more like the artsy movies he's always wanted to make instead of trying to be truly creative.

That's essentially the conclusion I've come to, yeah. Plus, Lake seems to embrace making games while Kojima seems to bitterly regret that he'd be laughed out of Hollywood.

Hell, MGS is supposed to be like an overblown, larger-than-life metaphor/representation of real, serious topics like nuclear proliferation and yadda yadda yadda. Except it gets muddled and stupid because the mechs that symbolize nuclear weapons are just dangerous for being nuclear launch platforms, because metaphors are hard. 30% of the earth's population was a child soldier who now wanders the land fighting for obscure philosophical reasons but shows little to none of the actual problems associated with former child soldiers, and 45% of all military personnel are clones or genetically engineered or turbocyborgs or something. Because this story that tries to touch on Very Serious Issues about soldiers and their place in the world was written in a country with pretty much 0 living combat veterans by a man who's never raised a fist in anger

[manmetaphysical]

1: Song to the Stranger in Strange Lands

You quickly realise from Robert A. Heinlein’s novel Stranger in a Strange Land (1961) what all the controversy was about. The topics in its pages skip casually from free love, polyamory, water sharing rituals, telepathy, OBEs,  cannibalism, the intertwining of corrupt politics and religions and journalism and the messiah complex. That’s quite a lot to pack into one story. The extended version published in 1991 contained the extra 60,000 words that the publishers had thought too controversial to publish back in 1961. 

While not a main character there is an astrologer called Becky Vesant who gives advice to the leader of the one world government that has taken over the world. Major Douglas relies on this resident astrologer Becky Vesant, for predictions on how to proceed in life. This is uncanny as, written in 1961,  it foresees the role that  Joan Quigley played as secret astrologer to the Reagans during their time in the 1980s at the Whitehouse. 

Quigley influenced world events that heralded the Perestroika period. It was Nancy who had Ronald’s ear and persuaded him to follow astrological advice, even warning him about the day of the attempted assassination. Vesant does the same for Major Douglas and his wife Alice, only 20 years in advance of it happening. In a similar scenario Becky Vesant’s astro-analysis is vital to Alice Douglas who then advises her husband Major Douglas what should be done about the man from Mars so Jubal Harshaw can intercede in his favour.  Astrology has its uses even for top policy makers and Heinlein suggests a future where use of astrology is normalised and no longer needs to be hidden. 

The novel is a rich stew of visionary ideas mostly ahead of their time and it propelled Robert Heinlein to the list of top writers of the 20th century. Its original title was ‘The Heretic’ and the words ‘Stranger in a Strange Land’ is a quote from the King James Bible, from Exodus 22.2. But ironically, in spite of its iconoclasm, it has achieved iconic popular status. It was given the Hugo award, and even was associated with the liberation movements of the 1960s and even became tangled up in the cult of Charles Manson and his followers who borrowed its ideas of living in communes and sharing lovers.

Putting aside the debate about whether Heinlein is still fashionable or not, there is still something important to learn from Heinlein’s book and that is to pose the question: where do the ideas on Earth originate? Who among us feels just like the man from Mars, like strangers here on Earth who see things differently from other humans? Do we really belong here or do we sometimes feel we are from somewhere else? Or to ask if we have been given a special mission to fulfil and if that should be our sole task? And to ask if it is true that,while we are in this world, we are not of it -as the famous Sufi mystical doctrine goes- then who are we really?

What occurs on Earth can appear insane, absurd, twisted, profane, evil, massively infested by parasitic energies, and what we witness during one lifetime is shocking travesty of the true potential of what it means to be an evolved ‘human’. You could be forgiven for thinking that Earth is the battleground for wars on the physical, emotional and metaphysical levels.

And who feels most alienated among social groups who might feel this existential anxiety about others? Chiron in Aquarius, especially if that is in the 7th house. Heinlein's Chiron was in Aquarius which is how he can teach us about what happens to individuals in groups, as they either feel rejected as aliens or they descend into an orgy of groupthink. Someone has to be the sin eater and soak up all the ugly projections. People with this placement are the introverts and loners, people who don't 'fit in'. They have a troubled sense of belonging.  Chiron has been in and out of Aquarius at various times, but retrogrades a lot, so double check where your Chiron placement is here. Chiron is in Aries at the moment chipping away at the existential angst people feel. Heinlein points to ideologies that sincerely intend to be for the good of all but that develop into dystopias- another quirky quality of Aquarius. is the imposition of their ideas on the rest of the world- always for the greater good.

While Stranger in a Strange Land may not be the greatest of literary achievements, it is regarded as one of the best Science Fiction novels ever written and the best Heinlein ever wrote. That all makes for a racy novel full of questions about why society on Earth is the way it is. It is written in satirical vein, so it is quite comical in parts, almost picaresque. It is about a man Valentine Michael Smith, born in Mars, who is a hybrid half human. He has special powers of telepathy, going out of body, able to teleport thigs, people, clothes, and have deep emotional understanding. He lands on Earth and has to learn its history and psychology all from scratch so his viewpoint is innocent and objective- at least at first.

But he learns quickly and becomes the messiah of his own religion of free love. He is compared to a Prometheus stealer of fire- so that’s a stand- in for Uranus and the genius that bestows. They way he looks at the humans he meets is without judgement like a tabula rasa- until he ‘groks’ them and begins to understand. This word ‘grok’ originated in  Heinlein’s book yet has multiple and profound meanings: to get, to dig, to asborb, to drink, to know fully, to understand, to consume, to eat, to identify with and so on. 

The novel reveals such a lot about our time in the 21st century and the issue of how religions create the chains on the human mind and where they are mingled with politics and sex i.e. where political movements act like substitutes for religion and where sex is repressed and/or sublimated unconsciously. This is especially true for people who are lost and vacuous, without any inner spiritual compass, or who have strayed away from the religious tradition they were born into. State policies and laws take on the guise of evangelical and theological dictats to be blindly obeyed, and the appeal to what is the ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ way to think is put down to which knee-jerk emotions are triggered and not to any facts or to any enlightened reasoning process.  In another lesser known novel ‘Orphans in the Sky (1964) there is a massive spaceship and all  humans aboard truly believe that it is the living extent of the entire universe as they have never actually been to the edges of the ship. 

Extract 1 from 'Song to the Strangers in a Strange Land' on ProteusAstrology.co.uk

[infjtarot]

Star. Mystic Spiral Tarot.

Themes and Keywords: Ideals. Hope. The future. Skies clearing. Clear vision. Unexpected help. Guiding light. Navigation. Freedom. Brilliance. Looking ahead. The true or naked self. The sea as sky and the sky as sea. Journeys of the goddess. Beauty in darkness. Distance. Power of the intellect. Astrology/Element The sign Aquarius is visionary and humanitarian. The constellation is called the Water Bearer, and usually is a kneeling man with a jug, or the jug itself, pouring waters into the area of the sky once known as “the sea.” The ancient Sumerians saw Ea here with his twin streams of water. Yet it is an air sign, the fixed and stable center of the air trinity. There are seas of earth and there are seas of the aethyrs. The waters distributed are those of consciousness, understanding things instinctually known and gleaned through the airwaves. The wave-shaped glyph of its symbol shows twin streams of water in motion. The wave forms are also symbolic of all waves: airwaves, wavelengths, radio, electricity, light, brain waves, ESP. Telephone, telegraph, television, and telepathy; all words whose prefix tele- means far, distant, especially in regard to transmission. This prefix comes from the Greek word telos, used by philosophers to denote end, goal, or purpose. Aristotle said that telos as purpose can encompass all human activity. The telos of Aquarius is “to know.” Aquarius knows that all people are one. Its comprehension of fraternity is innate; it senses the connection and communicates it to others. Yet Aquarius is also distant, known for being aloof, cool, and in a world of its own. Aquarius has Saturn as traditional ruler and Uranus as modern ruler. Appropriate, for Saturn is tradition and Uranus modernity. Saturn favors structure, Uranus revolt. Aquarius sees how the establishment can be improved and changed to approach its highest ideal form. What knowledge, inventions, vision, discovery, or social innovation will evolve us through time? Susan T. Chang

[schibborasso]

The Incredible Universe Of Guru Guru

Still breaking boundaries, still true to themselves, Guru Guru are back with a brand new studio album GURU GURU have been an institution for over five decades. Forerunners of Krautrock, the group, founded in 1968 by drummer, singer and visionary Mani Neumeier, have been breaking boundaries since the beginning, fusing free jazz with rock’n’roll, experimenting with Indian, Southeast Asian and African rhythms and styles, to create their own brand of psychedelic cosmic rock, inspiring musicians and audiences the world over, especially in the United States and Japan. Despite countless line-up changes, and more than a half century since their formation, today GURU GURU are as alive and active as ever, playing around 40 live shows every year. Far from being tired or showing signs of mellowing with age, their live shows are still experiences where the band know how to surprise their audiences. Of course, GURU GURU’s classic “Elektrolurch” is still a setlist staple, performed by Mani Neumeier in a newt costume. While ‘Back To The Roots,’ with its rock/prog’n’roll sound, is self-explanatory, the band have added new musical elements to the song ‘Guru Guru’s In Da Haus,’ experimenting with hiphop rhythms. The oblique ‘Hold The Jelly’ features the God Of Hellfire Arthur Brown as guest vocalist, with electro-dance influences. GURU GURU are still breaking boundaries, and are still very up to date, or even a bit ahead of their time. The album’s opening song, “Free Krautrock!” says it all, because the band still stands for everything that experimenting with different styles has to offer. The CD format features bonus track: ‘Sampo Incredible’. Label: Repertoire, 2023

[mywifeleftme]

234: Black Star // Mos Def & Talib Kweli are Black Star

Mos Def & Talib Kweli are Black Star Black Star 1998, Rawkus

Fair warning about the review ahead:

Remember dial-up modems? I croak as my dentures slide down my throat and prolapse my anus. I grew up in a pretty rural part of Ontario, so when I made a conscious effort to get into rap in the early ‘00s at age 17 or so, I was stuck downloading 72MB .rar folders off music blogs that would take 6 to 10 hours on our rickety 56k modem. We only had one phone line, so I would do the bulk of my downloading overnight, hoping that the connection wouldn’t blip out while I slept and leave me with a useless partially downloaded version of like, King of Rock or Straight Out the Jungle or whatever. Money for CDs was limited by my let’s call it principled abstention from getting a job, but when I could skip enough lunches to get a wad of cash together it went right to the music section at whatever big box store I could get a ride to. The first rock and metal CDs I bought in my early teens were predictably humiliating (e.g. Godsmack, the second Buckcherry record), but I was pretentious enough by the time I had my rap phase that my first picks were actually pretty tight: Public Enemy’s Fear of a Black Planet and Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star.

I had been trying to get a grasp on rap by downloading the canon in chronological order, but because I bought Black Star during this stretch I actually heard it at the same time I was listening to the golden age records it evokes—“Definition” and Boogie Down Productions, “A Children’s Story” and Slick Rick, De La and Tribe and Mos and Talib all in conversation. Nowadays, I tend to be skeptical of artists that pound their chests about being “old school” while aping well-worn trends, but everything comes together so well on Black Star: two emcees just old enough to be the little cousins of the first wave of true rap stars who want their own turn at making music in a style that had already moved on. With the confidence of prodigiously talented young men, they forced that closed door open just wide enough to create what might be the last masterpiece of its branch of the hip-hop family tree.

As of 2023, Mos (now Yasiin Bey) has now released more confusing press releases about his various retirements than great albums, and Talib Kweli is best known for sweatily harassing women who criticize him on Twitter, but Black Star catches each at the height of their abilities, rhyming like visionaries about real shit over tracks that turn the memory of classic beats into myths and ancient mating calls. Was any golden age track closer to the poetic soul than what Mos, Talib, and guest Common do with DJ Hi-Tek’s “Respiration”? Do any feel more true to the spirit of Toni Morrison or Amiri Baraka than the 88-keys-produced “Thieves in the Night”? As young people often do, the Black Star crew looked at a period not more than five to ten years past as though it were time out of mind—but something in the intensity of their nostalgia, the size of the legend they built up in their minds, gave them the space they needed to create a record the equal of their great forebears.

How it happened, I’m not quite sure: it seemed like there were a hundred emcees in the Rawkus orbit who could absolutely rap their asses off, and some talented producers to boot, but you can count on three fingers the number of truly essential LPs that came out of it (I’ll pause here for somebody to lose their shit over my downplaying Pharoahe Monch’s Internal Affairs). But, for a little while anyway, Mos Def could walk on water with a mic in his hand, and he softened Talib’s energy just enough that the uncontrollable torrent of the man’s flow was briefly channeled into a machine of balance and grace. I could listen to the way they pass it back and forth all my life, and I likely will.

234/365

[ptseti]

Allow us to introduce you to Askia the Great, a figure whose contributions to the Songhai Empire have left a lasting imprint on the tapestry of African history. 🏰✨ Born Muhammad I Askia around 1443, he became emperor in 1493 and kick-started what’s known as the Askia Dynasty. His ascension to the throne marked a pivotal point in West African history as he transformed the Songhai Empire into a political, economic, and cultural powerhouse. 📚🔆 Askia the Great was a true visionary. He organized his vast empire with a centralized government, dividing it into provinces with appointed governors. This innovative administrative structure provided stability and facilitated the smooth running of the empire. It was an exemplary demonstration of governance that was far ahead of its time. 🌐⚖️ But his accomplishments weren’t limited to political and administrative reforms. Askia was a fervent advocate of education and Islamic scholarship. He turned the city of Timbuktu into a vibrant cultural and educational hub, attracting scholars from all around the Islamic world. Under his patronage, the Sankore University in Timbuktu flourished, transforming into a scholarly oasis amidst the Saharan desert. The university was renowned for its extensive library, housing tens of thousands of manuscripts on various subjects ranging from astronomy to philosophy, which continue to enlighten us about the rich intellectual tradition of Africa. 📜🎓 Moreover, Askia was also a legendary military leader. He expanded the boundaries of the Songhai Empire, making it the largest empire in the history of West Africa. His military campaigns extended the influence of Songhai over a vast region, encompassing large parts of present-day Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria and Senegal.🛡️���️ In remembering Askia the Great, we pay tribute to a remarkable African leader whose impact continues to resonate through the corridors of time. His vision, wisdom, and zeal for knowledge stand as a testament to the grandeur of African civilization during his reign. 🌟

[kamal2047semi]

The Future of Semiconductors: Unveiling a World of Possibilities

**The Future of Semiconductors: Unveiling a World of Possibilities**

As we stand on the brink of a new era, the semiconductor industry finds itself at the heart of a technological revolution. The impact of semiconductors on our lives has been profound, driving advancements across industries and shaping the very fabric of our modern civilization. But what lies ahead for this dynamic and transformative field? Let's delve into the future of semiconductors and the boundless possibilities that await us.

**1. Quantum Leap in Computing:**

The race towards quantum computing is intensifying, and semiconductors will play a pivotal role in unlocking its true potential. Quantum processors, built on novel semiconductor materials, have the power to process vast amounts of data in a fraction of the time it takes traditional computers. The future of computing will transcend current limitations, empowering us to solve complex problems previously deemed insurmountable.

**2. AI and Machine Learning:**

The era of artificial intelligence is upon us, and semiconductors will serve as the backbone of AI and machine learning applications. With the growing demand for AI-driven technologies in autonomous vehicles, robotics, healthcare, and more, the semiconductor industry is set to witness an unprecedented surge in AI-focused chip designs. Neuromorphic computing, inspired by the human brain's architecture, could unlock revolutionary AI capabilities, paving the way for cognitive computing and self-learning systems.

**3. The Internet of Things (IoT) Revolution:**

As IoT proliferates, the demand for energy-efficient and high-performance semiconductor devices will skyrocket. We envision a future where billions of interconnected devices communicate seamlessly, facilitated by advanced semiconductor technologies. Ultra-low-power processors, sensors, and wireless communication chips will define the landscape of the IoT revolution, shaping smart cities, wearables, and an interconnected world.

**4. Green and Sustainable Semiconductors:**

Sustainability will be a driving force in the semiconductor industry's future. Innovations in materials and manufacturing processes will lead to environmentally friendly and energy-efficient semiconductor solutions. From eco-friendly chip packaging to renewable energy-powered fabs, the industry will strive to minimize its carbon footprint, contributing to a greener tomorrow.

**5. Silicon Photonics and Beyond:**

The integration of photonics with silicon promises a new era of ultra-high-speed data transmission and processing. Silicon photonics will revolutionize data centers, enabling faster communication between chips and reducing data bottlenecks. Moreover, emerging technologies like 2D materials and carbon nanotubes offer exciting possibilities for futuristic semiconductor devices that could outperform traditional silicon-based chips.

**6. Security and Privacy:**

With the increasing dependence on connected devices, security and privacy will be paramount. Future semiconductor designs will prioritize hardware-based security features to protect against cyber threats and safeguard sensitive data. Trusted execution environments and secure enclaves will become integral components of semiconductor devices, ensuring user confidence in an interconnected world.

**7. Global Collaboration and Talent Development:**

The future of semiconductors will thrive on global collaboration and talent development. International partnerships will foster innovation, as countries pool their resources and expertise. Companies will invest in nurturing a diverse and skilled workforce, driving advancements and promoting a culture of inclusion and creativity.

The future of semiconductors is bright, brimming with possibilities that have the potential to redefine our world. As innovators, engineers, and visionaries, let's embrace this transformative journey together. Let's harness the power of semiconductors to build a future that empowers, connects, and inspires generations to come.

*The future is here, and it's in the hands of those who dare to dream and innovate with semiconductors as their guiding light.*

[redlibra14-2]

FD Survivors as SCPs *Part 1*

/Hello again all, 

It’s been a while. I’ve just been busy with some personal stuff, college, fanfic ideas, Pokemon-related stuff, etc. I honestly didn’t think that my first SCP post would garner some attention from the Final Destination fandom the way it did but it did. I mean it was kind of a casual idea that I had going on in my head that I didn’t think would go anywhere. But I guess it’s starting to take shape. Also, if anyone wants to make fanart based off of my SCP matchups, by all means go ahead. And I’d also like to give out a disclaimer: Much like in my previous post about this, these matchups are based solely on my opinions and what I think fits. Apologies if we disagree, but I did say that if you did have a different opinion, feel free to post it in the comments. Which by the way, feel free to do the same here. I put this as Part 1 in the event that anyone wants to see more in the future. @hatsumesgoggles, this one is for you. This took about a decent 10-20 mins of research and internal debating before making the final decision.

Anyways~ 

This is another FD/SCP crossover post, but this time it’s with the survivors. 

Starting off with: 

Nathan -  SCP-26805 aka "The Helper Spirit": Now this one is a bit of a mixed case for me, as the SCP in question could apply to basically any of the sidekicks to the visionaries since they all share the same role. And Nathan is no exception to this. And it especially doesn’t help when this SCP isn’t as well-known as some of the classics, like 106 or 035. But I will give you a brief rundown as to what this thing does. Basically, it’s a spirit that can possess anyone and ONLY the person possessed can see its true form. It is also know to cause what can be broken down to and choked up as an adrenaline rush, such as being able to lift heavy objects or withstand bullets. And while possessing the person in question, it leaves behind a clone of itself (SCP-26805-1). But when it leaves the host, the host can’t even remember what the thing looks like after being released from its grasp. And if you think that’s it, that this thing isn’t so scary, let me give you a quick fact: this thing was one of the few scps that can literally incapacitate larger SCPs like 682. You gotta admit that that’s pretty powerful as it can basically temporarily turn you into a Jojo stand user. Now why Nathan in particular when I said that this could also apply to other characters? Well, Nathan does say that he can see dead people. I... unfortunately do not have any other reason why other than Nathan making a reference to the Sixth Sense to match him up with it. And also, going back to how this can also apply to other characters, this thing can literally possess multiple people at once, such as when some Chaos Insurgency members got possessed and with the power the received, almost destroyed an entire site. However, they were twarted by another army of 26805-1′s who were on the side of the Foundation. This also shows that this being isn’t purely a force for good, but it can also be used for evil too. Which is why it’s classified as Euclid, not harmful per say, but not safe either. This thing could literally possess anyone, meaning literally any FD character (unless I come up with different and better matchups). Hell, the closest thing to a helper spirit moment that happens in the FD series would be when Alex saves Carter. Too bad this thing wasn’t around to save him from being hit with a brick. 

(I’m gonna be honest with you guys and say that I originally wanted to place a cooking based scp with Nathan because fun fact: the whole cooking gig that every FD fan and their dog knows Sam had throughout the 5th film was originally supposed to go to Nathan before it got cut. The more you know.) 

Kevin - SCP-965 aka “The Face in the Window”: This one was also difficult to pin down because most of the SCPs that I tried or thought could fit were either phenomenon’s or literal objects, humanoid or sports-themed specifically, but none of them really seemed to fit with Kevin in my eyes. That was until I learned about SCP-965, aka “The Face in the Window”. This thing only appears when the “outside” of the window is slightly darker than the “inside” by 5 candelas. This thing can appear in the window regardless of how dark or light it is. It’s still there even if you tried to cover it up by closing the curtains. This thing is also known to instill the feelings of unease, nervousness, and paranoia and the areas in which it is seen are fully assembled window frames, regardless if installed or not (SCP-965-1). The only way it changes homes is if you destroy the current -1 and it reappears in a different window with no explanation. Also, if you sleep in a room with a window containing this thing, be prepared for the non-physical, yet choatic nightmares you’re gonna face. They’re so bad that they will leave you feeling as though you’re being watched or stalked in the waking world. And if these dreams become more frequent, the side effects you may experience are, but not limited to: 

- heartburn or abdominal pain 

-vomiting blood or have blood in bodily wastes 

-ulcers 

-and low-grade hemorrhaging in varied locations of the victim’s gastrointestinal tract. 

These symptoms happen because exposure to this thing is what’s causing abnormal spikes of fear and paranoia, allowing these symptoms to happen. It’s a traumatic experience and the more pain you feel, the bigger its monstrous grin grows. Now why did I place him with Kevin instead of 26805, like I did with Nathan? If you know anything about the visions in the films or how any of the characters die, you’d know that Kevin’s vision-based deaths have a lot to do with windows. Such as the picture of the flash going off in his face making it look like he got squashed against a window, or how in Wendy’s last vision, he’s sucked out of the window of the subway train and reduced to, as James A. Janisse once so lovingly put it, “a strawberry shortcake”. Plus throughout the film, while trying to put on a brave and helpful front around Wendy, is fearful and uneasy, which fits this to a tea. But then again, all FD characters feel this way to some extent, because it’s difficult to not be traumatized after the things they went through. (Also, a more morbid part of me is amused at the idea of Ghost!Kevin haunting windows, especially near where he “died”. I put “died” in quotation marks because like how I mentioned in my previous post about how we don’t know whether Wendy or Kim are alive and well, we don’t know Kevin’s fate either. For all we know he could be hidden away somewhere safe and vibing with Julie and Wendy.) 

Olivia - SCP-056 aka “A Beautiful Person”: Much like how I felt SCP-105 was a good choice for Wendy and to quote what I said in that section of the post: “Do I really need to explain this? To me it just seemed pretty fitting.” I mean seriously, does this really require an explanation as to why? Have you seen Olivia? She is literally a ✨Q U E E N✨. But in all seriousness and simping aside, she is very vainly beautiful. We see her take her shirt off in one scene and just preferring to wear more open clothes. She also really hates her glasses and it is why she visits an eye-laser sugery clinic leading up to her death. She values her looks so much to the point where it gets her into a heated rivalry with Candice. When I thought about what SCP should fit her best, 056 was the first one that came to mind as some of its behavior and abilities sound like Olivia. It can change its appearence at will according to its environment and the people around it. It can turn into either the most handsome man or the most beautiful woman. It’s so attractive to look at to the point where it leaves others feeling insecure and jealous of it. Sound familiar? Kind of like the rivalry that Olivia and Candice had as mentioned earlier. It’s also very vain but can be helpful if so desired. No one knows its true form behind the numerous masks it wears. Despite what everyone feels about it, it still gets its way. 

So anyway, those were my matchups. And again, some aren’t perfect but that’s what opinions and having discussions about said opinions in the comments are for. And if you want to see more, let me know. (Also, i just found out a few minutes ago as I am finishing this post that 26805 isn’t really part of the canon and is a fanmade scp but lets pretend that it is, at least for the sake of this post)

[catonablog-blog-blog]

Witches v. Wizards: Wizarding World Spellbound by Trial Greetings, enchanting readers! Rufus T. Flywheel here, your all-time favorite magical correspondent and wizard extraordinaire. Today, I bring to you a spellbinding tale that has gripped the Wizarding World with its twists and turns - the trial of Witches v. Wizards. Picture this: the halls of the Magical Court were abuzz with energy as the trial of the century unfolded. The case of Witches v. Wizards has divided the Wizarding community like never before. Rumors swirled, secrets were whispered, and alliances were tested as the fate of magic itself hung in the balance. At the heart of the trial stood a powerful witch, Morgana Nightshade, accused of using dark magic to manipulate the minds of innocent wizards. On the other side, the formidable wizard council led by Merlin Silvercloak sought justice for the victims and vowed to protect the sanctity of magic. As a neutral observer with a keen interest in the arcane arts, I was granted special access to witness the proceedings firsthand. The courtroom crackled with tension as witnesses took the stand, spells were cast, and the truth slowly unraveled like a thread of magic. The arguments presented by both sides were as intriguing as they were spellbinding. The witches argued for freedom of expression in magic, claiming that their unique abilities should not be stifled by outdated wizard traditions. They spoke of centuries of oppression and persecution, invoking powerful spells to sway the jury in their favor. On the other hand, the wizards countered with a strong case for the preservation of magical order and balance. They warned of the dangers of unchecked magic and painted a grim picture of a world overrun by chaos and darkness should the witches be allowed to roam free. As the trial progressed, I couldn't help but be drawn into the intricate web of magic and intrigue that surrounded the case. The testimonies of witnesses, the clash of spells, and the subtle power plays between the opposing factions kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to uncover the truth behind the veil of illusion. But amidst the grandeur of the courtroom drama, a deeper, more profound question loomed large - what defines good magic versus dark magic? Is it the intent behind the spell, the consequences of its casting, or the wielder's moral compass that ultimately determines its nature? As I pondered these weighty questions, a pivotal moment in the trial unfolded. Morgana Nightshade took the stand, her eyes ablaze with a fierce determination that sent shivers down my spine. She spoke of her love for magic, her desire to push its boundaries and explore its untapped potential. Her words resonated with me, stirring a deep sense of empathy for her plight. Could it be that the witch was not a villain, as the wizards painted her to be, but a visionary ahead of her time, challenging the status quo in pursuit of a greater magical truth? As the trial reached its climax, a hush fell over the courtroom as the jury prepared to deliver their verdict. The fate of Morgana Nightshade and the future of magic itself hung in the balance, a weighty decision that would send ripples through the very fabric of the Wizarding World. And then, in a moment that will forever be etched in my memory, the jury pronounced their judgment. Morgana Nightshade was acquitted of all charges, her innocence upheld by the court of magic. The witches erupted in cheers, their wands raised high in triumph, while the wizards looked on in stunned silence, their pride wounded but their beliefs unshaken. As I left the courtroom, my mind buzzing with the events that had unfolded, I couldn't help but feel a sense of hope for the future of magic. The trial of Witches v. Wizards had not only exposed the fault lines that divided our community but also sparked a dialogue about the true nature of magic and its place in our world. As I bid you farewell, my dear readers, I leave you with a parting thought - magic is a wondrous gift that binds us all, regardless of our differences. Let us embrace its power with humility, respect its mysteries with awe, and above all, remember that in the end, it is not the spells we cast but the intentions behind them that truly define us. Until next time, stay enchanted and may the magic be ever in your favor. Yours in wonder and wizardry, Rufus T. Flywheel

[satyamsoftwareservices]

Architecture firm

**Architect Gautam and Associates: Redefining Architecture Firm Patna**

In the heart of Patna, a city rapidly evolving into a modern urban center, **Architect Gautam and Associates** stands as a beacon of innovative design and architectural excellence. Renowned for its commitment to quality, precision, and visionary projects, this architecture firm has carved a unique niche in the industry, becoming one of the most trusted names in the region.

### A Legacy of Architectural Excellence

Founded by the visionary architect Gautam Kumar, the firm has grown exponentially over the years, consistently delivering high-quality projects that blend functionality with aesthetic brilliance. Whether it’s residential spaces, commercial complexes, or institutional buildings, Architect Gautam and Associates has a versatile portfolio that speaks volumes about their capability to design structures that resonate with the client’s vision while adhering to modern design principles.

### Comprehensive Architectural Solutions

One of the standout features of Architect Gautam and Associates is their holistic approach to architecture. The firm offers a wide range of services, including:

– **Architectural Design and Planning:** The firm’s design philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also sustainable and efficient.  Architecture Firm Patna They emphasize understanding the client’s needs and translating them into innovative designs that align with the latest trends.

– **Interior Design:** Recognizing that a building’s true beauty lies in its interiors, the firm also specializes in crafting interior spaces that are harmonious, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

– **Project Management:** Architect Gautam and Associates ensures that every project is executed seamlessly, from conceptualization to completion. Their robust project management team ensures timely delivery, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to quality standards.

### Commitment to Sustainability

In today’s age of climate consciousness, the firm integrates sustainable practices in their projects, focusing on energy efficiency, environmental impact, and the use of eco-friendly materials. This commitment to green architecture has further solidified their reputation as a forward-thinking firm that prioritizes both innovation and environmental responsibility.

### Client-Centric Approach

The cornerstone of Architect Gautam and Associates’ success lies in their unwavering focus on client satisfaction. The firm believes that each project is unique and requires a personalized touch. By engaging in detailed consultations and involving clients throughout the design process, they ensure that the final output is a true reflection of the client’s aspirations.

### Notable Projects in Patna

Over the years, Architect Gautam and Associates has been behind some of Patna’s most iconic structures. Their projects range from luxurious residential villas to state-of-the-art commercial buildings, each standing as a testament to their design prowess and technical expertise. Their work has not only transformed the skyline of Patna but has also set new benchmarks for architectural excellence in the region.

### Looking Ahead

As Patna continues to grow and evolve, Architect Gautam and Associates is poised to remain at the forefront of this transformation. With a perfect blend of creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of modern architectural needs, the firm is well-equipped to take on future challenges and continue delivering world-class projects.

In conclusion, Architect Gautam and Associates Architecture Firm Patna is more than just an architecture firm; it’s a symbol of innovation, quality, and reliability in Patna’s architectural landscape. For anyone looking to bring their dream project to life, this firm offers the perfect partnership, combining visionary design with practical execution to create spaces that inspire and endure.

[monsterkong]

Lithium in Mental Health: The Untold Story 🧠💥

Lithium is one of those words that seems to carry a lot of weight in the world of mental health. For years, it’s been the cornerstone of treatment for bipolar disorder, helping people find balance in their lives. But what if I told you that the way lithium is traditionally used might be more harmful than helpful? Let’s take a closer look at the untold story of lithium therapy and a groundbreaking approach that could change the way we think about mental health treatment. 🌍

The Traditional Method: High-Dose Lithium Carbonate 💊

Lithium carbonate has been the standard treatment for bipolar disorder for decades. It’s essentially lithium in its most basic form—mined from the earth, turned into a pill, and prescribed to patients. But there’s a major catch: to make it work, doctors have to prescribe lithium carbonate in doses 500 times higher than the amount of regular salt you’d typically consume. That’s a staggering amount! 🧂⚠️

As you might expect, taking such a large amount of salt isn’t without consequences. Many people who take lithium carbonate experience a range of side effects, some of which can be quite severe. If you’ve ever read the fine print on a medication bottle, you know how daunting those side effect lists can be. This high-dose approach, while effective, comes with significant risks that can’t be ignored.

The Innovative Solution: Dr. Neer’s Lithium Revolution 🌟

Enter Dr. Neer, a visionary German doctor who saw lithium therapy in a whole new light. Rather than sticking with the traditional high-dose approach, Dr. Neer developed a method that could deliver lithium more effectively and with fewer side effects. His secret? Binding lithium with a substance found in mother’s milk—atic acid.

This method is a game changer because it allows lithium to cross the blood-brain barrier much more efficiently. With just a tiny amount of lithium bound to atic acid, patients can experience the same mood-stabilizing effects as traditional lithium therapy, but without the dangerous side effects. It’s like finding a shortcut that gets you to your destination faster and safer. 🛤️🚀

The Impact: Transforming Lives 🌈

I’ve seen the difference this approach can make, particularly in children who struggle with mood disorders. The results have been nothing short of life-changing. Imagine a child who once experienced intense mood swings now enjoying a life of calm and balance—all thanks to a tiny, precise dose of lithium.

This method doesn’t just treat the symptoms; it transforms lives. It’s about more than just managing a condition—it’s about giving people the tools they need to live their best lives. And isn’t that what true health is all about? 💖

Looking Ahead: A New Era in Mental Health Treatment 🌅

As we look to the future, the potential for Dr. Neer’s method to revolutionize lithium therapy is immense

#BipolarTreatment #EmotionalStability #LithiumTherapy #NaturalHealing #MineralsForHealth #HolisticWellness #LithiumBenefits #MoodStabilizer #HealthyMind #AlternativeTreatment

[scottdylann]

Scott Dylan: The Visionary Investor

In the ever-evolving world of technology and finance, few names resonate as strongly as Scott Dylan. A true visionary, Dylan has made his mark as an investor with an uncanny ability to spot potential in burgeoning tech companies. His journey from a curious entrepreneur to a revered figure in the investment community is a testament to his insight, tenacity, and forward-thinking approach.

Early Beginnings and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Scott Dylan’s foray into the business world began at a young age. With a natural inclination towards technology, he immersed himself in the digital revolution of the early 2000s. His early ventures, though modest, laid the foundation for what would become a stellar career in investment. Unlike many of his contemporaries who chased quick profits, Dylan was always more interested in the long-term impact of technology on society. This perspective would later define his investment strategy.

The Birth of a Tech Investor

Dylan’s transition from entrepreneur to investor was a natural progression. As he honed his skills in identifying trends and understanding market dynamics, he began to see opportunities that others often overlooked. His first major success came with an investment in a small tech startup focused on cloud computing. At the time, cloud technology was still in its infancy, but Dylan’s foresight paid off when the company grew exponentially, becoming a leader in the industry.

This success was no fluke. It was the result of Dylan’s deep understanding of technology and his ability to assess the potential of ideas that others might dismiss. His portfolio grew as he continued to invest in companies that were ahead of their time, particularly those in AI, cybersecurity, and fintech.

Investment Philosophy: Vision, Innovation, and Impact

Scott Dylan is not just an investor; he is a futurist. His investment philosophy is grounded in the belief that technology should not only generate profits but also drive positive change in the world. This belief has led him to support companies that are not just innovative, but also committed to ethical practices and sustainability.

Dylan is known for his hands-on approach with the companies he invests in. He doesn’t just provide capital; he offers guidance, leveraging his vast experience to help startups navigate the complex tech landscape. His mentorship has been pivotal in transforming many fledgling companies into industry leaders.

Key Investments and Success Stories

One of Dylan’s most notable investments was in a cybersecurity firm that developed advanced AI-driven solutions to combat emerging digital threats. At a time when cyberattacks were becoming increasingly sophisticated, Dylan recognized the need for more robust security measures. His investment not only yielded significant returns but also contributed to making the digital world a safer place.

Another standout in his portfolio is a fintech company that revolutionized online payments, making transactions faster, more secure, and accessible to people in developing countries. This investment aligned perfectly with Dylan’s vision of technology as a tool for empowerment.

Beyond Investing: Philanthropy and Thought Leadership

Scott Dylan’s impact extends beyond the boardroom. He is a passionate advocate for tech education and regularly donates to programs that aim to equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. He also frequently shares his insights at conferences and through his writings, inspiring the next generation of tech entrepreneurs and investors.

His commitment to philanthropy is as strategic as his investments. Dylan supports initiatives that use technology to address global challenges, such as climate change and healthcare access. His philanthropic work is a reflection of his belief that those who have benefited from technology have a responsibility to give back to society.

The Road Ahead

As Scott Dylan continues to shape the future of technology through his investments, one thing is clear: his influence will be felt for generations to come. With a keen eye on emerging trends and a deep commitment to ethical investing, Dylan is not just building wealth — he’s building a better world.

In a landscape where many are focused on short-term gains, Scott Dylan stands out as a beacon of thoughtful, impactful investing. His story is one of vision, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of progress, making him a true leader in the world of tech investment.