#gregory discovers capitalism

[ophii]

the trio ever

[literary-illuminati]

Book Review 58 – The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin

I originally put a hold on this at the library back in the spring, so by the time I actually got my hands on it I’d entirely forgotten why I’d asked for it specifically. Still, in general I’d been meaning to read more Le Guin (and more classic sci fi/stuff written in previous generations, generally), so it isn’t too mysterious. It’s definitely a meaty read as far as cultural artifacts go, but I must admit that as a reading experience it left me a bit cold.

The story takes place in the distant and futuristic year of 2003, in a Portland that’s rather worse for the wear – overpopulation, widespread and crippling malnutrition even in American cities, a war in the Middle East threatening to spiral out into nuclear Armageddon, climate change has led to mass resettlement away from the coasts, and also its always raining. Into this comes Gregory Orr, a man whose dreams can retroactively change reality. Horrified by this, he almost overdoses on stimulants to avoid sleep – and is basically given court-ordered ‘voluntary’ therapy. Dr. William Haber, after taking a bit to believe him, starts using the magic of hynpotherapy and also Orr being kind of a pushover to trigger, manipulate, and direct his magic dreams and start trying to retroactively fix the world. Because it turns out hypnosis-induced dreams have a lot in common with asshole genies, side effects include a pandemic killing the majority of humanity, an alien invasion, everyone having identically coloured grey skin, and eventually the execution of anyone discovered to have a inheritable medical condition for eugenics reasons. Eventually Haber believes he’s discovered a way to induce the same dreams in himself, and when he tries just kind of breaks reality and himself at the seams. Before he does, he finally cures Orr of the dreams, and amid the ruins he gets a girlfriend (who had in other versions of reality been his lawyer and then dead and then his girlfriend) and settles down to a good life working with his hands.

The overall feel of the book is, like, Seeing Like A State as Twilight Zone episode. There’s a distaste for capital-P Progress – for top-down utopias, technocratic utilitarianism, psychiatry and eugenics and public health initiatives, tolerance through the erasure of differences, bureaucratic work, lives without strife and struggle, and just generally measuring the marigolds – that absolutely pervades the work. It is good and virtuous, the book seems to (or outright does) say, to help people you know and directly around you, and in the face of an apocalypse you do whatever you can. But otherwise, in the course of normal life, thinking you can really improve the world is the height of hubris, and thinking you have any duty to is just disguised megomania – anti-overpopulation efforts lead naturally to democidal plagues, trying to cure cancer to brutal eugenics regimes. The good life is a grounded one, where you have a job where you work with your hands and do something constructive, and don’t mess around with dangerous dreams – the only alternative is playing a cruel god over the masses.

The aesthetic and political revulsion towards 20th century modernism is of a piece with what else I’ve read of Le Guin, but the sort of conservative, struggle-idolizing quietism it puts forward as the positive alternative kind of took me by surprise.

Speaking of overpopulation – as an artifact of anxieties about the future and science, the book is just fascinating. Written in 1970, it really does take it as almost a given that in thirty years overpopulation would be an acute crisis. The numbers actually aren’t far off – a global population of 7 billion is mentioned – but this is taken to mean a world where childhood malnutrition is a fact of life for the average American in the Pacific Northwest, and there’s so much demand for grain-as-foodstuff that a psychiatrist can’t afford brandy. Hypnosis is also treated with a level of seriousness and gravitas that these days its only shown in self-conscious pulp and fetish porn. On the other hand, the fact that a book written in 1970 is talking about ‘the greenhouse effect’ and how climate change is going to cause ruinous natural disasters is, well, deeply depressing.

Completely tangential from everything else – so the only female character in the book is Heather Lelache, a lawyer Orr goes to for help and then a couple reality iterations later starts falling in love with. Or properly speaking after he accidentally dreams her out of existing in the process of abolishing racism, he dreams her back and it’s functionally an entirely different and much meeker and milder person (like, she gets POV chapters, the change in internal monologue is striking) and also goes from ‘lawyer’ to ‘legal secretary’, and he continues falling in love with and marries her. This is never really called out or commented upon but it did strike me enough that I wanted to bring it up as interesting.

Anyway, don’t regret reading this, but probably the Le Guin I’ve gotten the least out of, overall.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 5.11

330 – Constantine the Great dedicates the much-expanded and rebuilt city of Byzantium, changing its name to New Rome and declaring it the new capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. 868 – A copy of the Diamond Sūtra is published, making it the earliest dated and printed book known. 973 – In the first coronation ceremony ever held for an English monarch, Edgar the Peaceful is crowned King of England, having ruled since 959 AD. His wife, Ælfthryth, is crowned queen, the first recorded coronation for a Queen of England. 1068 – Matilda of Flanders, wife of William the Conqueror, is crowned Queen of England. 1258 – Louis IX of France and James I of Aragon sign the Treaty of Corbeil, renouncing claims of feudal overlordship in one another's territories and separating the House of Barcelona from the politics of France. 1713 – Great Northern War: After losing the Battle of Helsinki to the Russians, the Swedish and Finnish troops burn the entire city, so that it would not remain intact in the hands of the Russians. 1812 – Prime Minister Spencer Perceval is assassinated by John Bellingham in the lobby of the British House of Commons. 1813 – William Lawson, Gregory Blaxland and William Wentworth discover a route across the Blue Mountains, opening up inland Australia to settlement. 1857 – Indian Rebellion of 1857: Indian rebels seize Delhi from the British. 1880 – Seven people are killed in the Mussel Slough Tragedy, a gun battle in California. 1889 – An attack upon a U.S. Army paymaster and escort results in the theft of over $28,000 and the award of two Medals of Honor. 1894 – Four thousand Pullman Palace Car Company workers go on a wildcat strike. 1919 – Uruguay becomes a signatory to the Buenos Aires copyright treaty. 1970 – The 1970 Lubbock tornado kills 26 and causes $250 million in damage. 1985 – Fifty-six spectators die and more than 200 are injured in the Bradford City stadium fire. 1996 – After the aircraft's departure from Miami, a fire started by improperly handled chemical oxygen generators in the cargo hold of Atlanta-bound ValuJet Airlines Flight 592 causes the Douglas DC-9 to crash in the Florida Everglades, killing all 110 on board. 1997 – Deep Blue, a chess-playing supercomputer, defeats Garry Kasparov in the last game of the rematch, becoming the first computer to beat a world-champion chess player in a classic match format. 1998 – India conducts three underground atomic tests in Pokhran. 2011 – An earthquake of magnitude 5.1 hits Lorca, Spain. 2013 – Fifty-two people are killed in a bombing in Reyhanlı, Turkey. 2014 – Fifteen people are killed and 46 injured in Kinshasa, DRC, in a stampede caused by tear gas being thrown into soccer stands by police officers. 2016 – One hundred and ten people are killed in an ISIL bombing in Baghdad. 2022 – The Burmese military executes at least 37 villagers during the Mon Taing Pin massacre in Sagaing, Myanmar. 2024 - Minnesota officially updates its flag.

[discoveringorthodoxy]

Equals of the Apostles and Teachers of the Slavs, St. Cyril and St. Methodius

Christ is with us! He is and always shall be!

In school, we are often taught that Martin Luther was the first to translate the Bible into a common language for all to understand. And while Martin Luther did translate the Bible from Latin to German for the common folk to understand, he was not the first to accomplish this feat. There are two saints who had achieved this over 700 years prior. These saints are Saints Cyril and Methodius. 

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St. Methodius and St. Constantine (Feast Days May 11th and 24th) were brothers born in Thessalonica. St. Methodius, the oldest of seven brothers, was in the military and became governor in one of the Slavic principalities that were dependent on the Byzantine Empire. This made it possible for him to learn the Slavic language. Ten years later, St. Methodius became a monk on Mount Olympus. 

St. Constantine was a smart man who studied with emperor Michael under the finest teachers in Constantinople. One such teacher was Saint Photius, who would later become the Patriarch of Constantinople (February 6). St. Constantine also studied all the current sciences and knew several languages. He studied the works of St. Gregory the Theologian. Because of his wealth in knowledge, St. Constantine became know as the “Philosopher”. After completing his education, the Saint was ordained into holy priesthood and appointed the curator of the patriarchal library at the church of Hagia Sophia. However, he soon left the capital and secretly went to a monastery. Being discovered there, he went back to Constantinople where he was appointed as an instructor in philosophy. While there, he even won a debate against Ananias, the leader of the iconoclasts. After this victory, the emperor sent Constantine to discuss the Holy Trinity with the Saracens, who were people who professed Islam. He also gained a victory against them. After he returned, he went to St. Methodius and spent his time in unceasing prayer and reading the works of the holy Fathers. 

Soon, the emperor summoned both of the brothers and sent them to preach the Gospel to the Khazars, a semi-nomadic Turkic people. During their journey, they stayed in the city of Korsun in order to make preparations. While there, they discovered the relics of the hieromartyr Clement, Pope of Rome (November 25). 

While in Korsun, St. Constantine found a Gospel and Psalter written in Slavonic (Russian letters) and a man who spoke the Slavic tongue. He learned from this man how to read and speak the language. Eventually the brothers arrived at the Khazars, where they won a debate with the Jews and Muslims by preaching the Gospel. On their way back, the brothers visited Korsun and took up the relics of St. Clement. Then, they returned to Constantinople. 

Later, they were called by Moravian prince Rostislav to instruct his people in the Orthodox Faith. Along with the help of their disciples Gorazd, Clement, Savva, Naum, and Angelyar, they devised a Slavonic alphabet and translated the books that were necessary for the celebration of the divine services. They translated the Gospel, Epistles, Psalter, and collected services into the Slavic tongue. This occured in the year 863, over 700 years before Martin Luther translated the New Testament. 

After they completed the translation, the holy brothers went to Moravia, where they began to teach the services in the Slavic language. This angered the German bishops, who celebrated the divine services in the Moravian churches in Latin. They were convinced that the divine services should be done in one of three languages: Hebrew, Greek, or Latin. However, St. Constantine said, “You only recognize three languages in which God may be glorified. But David sang, ‘Praise the Lord, all nations, praise the Lord all peoples (Psalm 116/117:1)’.’ Humiliated and bitter, the bishops complained to Rome. 

The holy brothers were then summoned to Rome for a decision to be made on the matter. As they set off to Rome, the brothers took with them the relics of St. Clement. Knowing that they were bringing these relics with them, Pope Adrian met them along the way with his clergy. The brothers were greeted with honor and the Pope gave permission to have the divine services in the Slavonic language. He then ordered the books translated by the brothers to be placed in the Latin churches, and to serve the Liturgy in the Slavonic language.

While in Rome, St. Constantine fell ill and the Lord revealed that he would die. So, he was tonsured into the monastic schema with the name of Cyril. On February 14, 869, St. Cyril died at the age of 42. Before he died, St. Cyril commanded St. Methodius to continue their task of enlightening the Slavic people with the true Faith. 

After St. Cyril’s death, the Pope sent Methodius to Pannonia, a province of the Roman Empire, and consecrated him as Archbishop of Moravia and Pannonia. In Pannonia, St. Methodius and his disciples continued to distribute service books written in the Slavonic language. This once again angered the German bishops, who arrested and tried the Saint. The Saint was sent to Swabia where he endured several sufferings for two and a half years. 

After being set free by the order of Pope John VIII of Rome and being restored to his archdiocese, St. Methodius continued to preach the Gospel to the Slavs. He baptized the Czech prince Borivoi and his wife Ludmilla (September 16), as well as one of the Police princes. The German bishops began to persecute him again because he did not accept the heretical teaching of the Holy Spirit proceeding from both the Father and Son. St. Methodius was summoned to Rome where he was able to justify himself before the Pope and preserve the Orthodox teaching. Afterwards, he was sent to Velehrad, the capital of Moravia. 

Velehrad is where he spent the remaining years of his life. St. Methodius spent the rest of his life, with the assistance of two of his former pupils, translating the entire Old Testament into Slavonic. The only books he did not translate was the Book of Maccabbess, the Nomocanon (Rule of the Holy Fathers) and Paterikon (book of the Holy Fathers). 

Before he died, St. Methodius designated one of his students, Gorazd, as a worthy successor to himself. The saint predicted the day of his death and died on April 6, 885, at the age of 66. The saint’s burial service was chanted in three languages, Slavonic, Greek, and Latin. 

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The story of Sts. Cyril and Methodius is an amazing one. As a STEM student,  I found it fascinating that St. Cyril had studied all of the current sciences of his time. And as someone who is continually seeking knowledge, his story gave me a sense of hope that I can use what I learn to glorify God and to spread His message. 

We should keep the spirit of Sts. Cyril and Methodius as we approach the modern era. Today, thanks to the Internet, we are connected to people from all around the world that come from all sorts of cultures. One thing I do appreciate from the Protestant movement is that there is a passion to translate the Bible into other languages and go out among other cultures to spread it. It does help spread the Gospel and we ought to do as Orthodox Christians. 

But on a more local issue, we should focus on making our services more accessible to people in the West. In the US, where I’m from, I’ve seen a problem where the liturgy is not performed in English. While I understand having the liturgy in for example, Greek, for new immigrants, it also cuts off any potential new converts for the local population. Having the liturgy mostly in English or even a Spanish service could help our population greatly. But this is just my humble opinion. 

Until next time and may God bless all of you!

- Joanna

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Sources:

“Equals of the Apostles and Teachers of the Slavs, Cyril and Methodius.” Orthodox Church in America, https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2001/05/11/101350-equals-of-the-apostles-and-teachers-of-the-slavs-cyril-and-metho.

“Methodios & Cyril, Equal-to-the Apostles Illuminators of the Slavs - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.” Go to Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, https://www.goarch.org/chapel/saints?contentid=486&type=saints.

[gregorykeough65]

Gregory Keough is adept at building innovative global strategies and teams to create new digital financial services products that resonate with consumers and provide for rapid growth. Founder of multiple successful companies and early pioneer in the Internet, FinTech, DeFi and Carbon Credit segments. Experienced Digital Board Member with technology chops to provide insight on how digital can upend traditional business models.

[tours-23and-travels]

Exploring Armenia's Rich Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Armenia is a country with a deep and fascinating history. Exploring Armenia's rich cultural heritage and historical sites offers a unique glimpse into its past. From ancient monasteries and churches to historical landmarks, each site tells a story of Armenia's vibrant history. For those interested in discovering this heritage, Armenia tour packages provide a convenient way to explore the country's treasures. These packages typically include guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. Whether it's visiting the ancient city of Erebuni or the stunning monasteries of Geghard and Tatev, Armenia tour packages make it easy for travelers to immerse themselves in the country's history and beauty. Embarking on a journey through Armenia's cultural and historical sites promises an unforgettable experience filled with learning and adventure.

Here are some ways to explore Armenia's rich cultural heritage and historical sites.

1. Khor Virap Monastery:

Situated on a hill close to the settlement of Pokr Vedi, the monastery is close to the border between Armenia and Turkey. It was the location of Artashat, the ancient capital of Armenia. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, which is revered as a sacred mountain by Armenians, Khor Virap Monastery is currently one of the most visited tourist spots in Armenia. Legend has it that in 301 CE,Gregory the Illuminator was a major factor in the conversion of the Armenian people to Christianity. Because of his Christian beliefs, King Tiridates III put him in jail. However, after his release and the Armenian people's conversion to Christianity, the location of Khor Virap acquired great religious significance. Gregory spent thirteen years in captivity in this dungeon, which is still visible today and is accessed by a short ladder. The Khor Virap Monastery is regarded as one of Armenia's gems and ought to be on your travel schedule.

2. Viewpoint from Azat Reservoir: 

Perched at approximately 1050 meters above sea level, the Azat Reservoir viewpoint is a hidden treasure in Armenia's Ararat region. It is located above the settlement of Lanjazat. Views of Mount Ararat and the Yeranos Mountains encircling the reservoir are available to visitors in a panoramic format. When the colours of the sky reflect on the sea at sunrise and sunset, the scene is especially breathtaking. It's a must-go place if you're searching for something different and gorgeous close to Yerevan.

3.Garni Temple:   

The sun, brightness, and purity god Mihr, an ancient Armenian deity, was honoured by the construction of the temple. Many pagan sites were destroyed when Christianity was formally accepted as the national religion of Armenia in 301 CE. The only extant pagan temple in Armenia is the Garni Temple, which is situated in the Kotayk region. The temple is well known for its distinctive design, which includes arches and columns evocative of classical Greek temples. Despite its pagan beginnings, the Garni Temple has grown to be a significant cultural icon and a representation of Armenian identity. People travel from all over the world to admire its breathtaking beauty and rich historical background.

4. Saint Hripsime Church: 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Church of Saint Hripsime is situated at the entrance to the historic city of Etchmiadzin. The location of its current location is where Saint Hripsime was crucified in the third century for her refusal to wed King Tiridates III. On the spot where she was executed, a tiny chapel was first established, and the church was built in her honour in the seventh century. The church is well-known for its magnificent construction and is a noteworthy illustration of early medieval Armenian building. Its distinctive architecture, which is distinguished by its central dome and elaborate stone carvings, has withstood the test of time and continues to serve as an inspiration to both artists and architects. 

5. The Museum and Church of Etchmiadzin: 

The mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Etchmiadzin Church, is situated in Vagharshapat and is regarded as the most significant religious location in Armenia. Known by another name, the "Catholicate of All Armenians," it was founded in the fourth century to serve as the capital of the Catholicate for the whole Armenian people when St. Gregory the Illuminator converted King Tiridates III to Christianity in 301 CE. St. Gregory witnessed a miraculous incident that marked the foundation of the church: the Son of God, surrounded by a powerful angelic host, struck the earth with a golden hammer to mark the location of the Mother Cathedral of the nascent Christian. A new nation was to be founded. Etchmiadzin, "the place where the Only Begotten descended," is the name given to this occasion. In addition to being a significant place of worship, the church now serves as a representation of Armenia's rich historical and cultural legacy.

Conclusion

Exploring Armenia's rich cultural heritage and historical sites is a journey through time. From ancient monasteries to stunning landscapes, Armenia offers a deep connection to its past. For those planning a visit, there are many Armenia holiday packages available. These packages make it easy to experience the country's beauty and history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and visit breathtaking sites. Whether you're wandering through Yerevan or exploring the countryside, Armenia provides unforgettable memories. By choosing the right tour package, you can ensure a smooth and enriching travel experience. Discovering Armenia's treasures is an adventure that leaves a lasting impression.

[seomastersstuff1]

Top 5 Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. From pristine beaches to ancient temples, this country offers an array of attractions that cater to every type of traveler. In this article, we will explore the top 5 places to visit in Sri Lanka, ensuring you experience the best of what this enchanting destination has to offer. As we embark on this journey, we'll also discover hidden gems like the stunning Kithal Ella Falls in Sri Lanka and the majestic Aberdeen Falls in Sri Lanka.

1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an ancient rock fortress located in the central Matale District. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. The massive rock rises nearly 200 meters above the surrounding plains, offering breathtaking views and an insight into the island's rich history. The fortress was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century and served as his royal palace. Visitors can explore the well-preserved frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the royal gardens. The climb to the summit is a bit challenging, but the panoramic views from the top make it worth every step.

2. Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the most visited and second-largest national park in Sri Lanka. Located in the southeastern region of the country, it is renowned for its rich biodiversity and dense population of leopards. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Visitors can embark on a safari adventure to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The park also boasts beautiful landscapes, ranging from dense jungles to open grasslands and serene lagoons, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

3. Ella

Ella is a charming town nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country. It is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, lush tea plantations, and tranquil atmosphere. One of the must-visit attractions in Ella is the Nine Arches Bridge, an architectural marvel set amidst verdant greenery. For those who enjoy hiking, the trek to Little Adam's Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Another hidden gem near Ella is the Kithal Ella Falls in Sri Lanka, a picturesque waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff, providing a perfect spot for a refreshing dip. The nearby Ella Rock is also a popular hiking destination, offering panoramic views that will leave you in awe.

4. Kandy

Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city set around a scenic lake in the central highlands. It is home to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. The temple houses a tooth relic of Lord Buddha and attracts pilgrims from all over the globe. Kandy is also famous for its colorful Esala Perahera, an annual procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully adorned elephants. Visitors can explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which boasts an impressive collection of orchids and other exotic plants. The city's rich cultural heritage, combined with its picturesque setting, makes Kandy a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.

5. Nuwara Eliya

Known as "Little England," Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill station located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. This picturesque town is characterized by its colonial-era architecture, cool climate, and lush tea plantations. Visitors can take a tour of a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the finest Ceylon tea. The town is also home to beautiful gardens, such as the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and scenic attractions like Gregory Lake, where you can enjoy boating and picnicking. A short drive from Nuwara Eliya will lead you to the stunning Aberdeen Falls in Sri Lanka, a magnificent waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is a land of endless wonders, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a serene escape, this island paradise has it all. From the ancient marvels of Sigiriya and the wildlife haven of Yala National Park to the scenic beauty of Ella, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya, each destination provides a unique and unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the top places to visit in Sri Lanka, where every moment is a new adventure waiting to be explored.

[lookbookfly21]

Explore the Enchantment of Sri Lanka with Look Book Fly's Exclusive Tour Packages

Imagine a land where pristine beaches meet lush green hills, ancient temples sit alongside vibrant cities, and warm hospitality is a way of life. Welcome to Sri Lanka, a destination that promises an unforgettable adventure for every kind of traveler. At Look Book Fly, we offer specially curated Sri Lanka tour packages that cater to all your travel desires, ensuring a perfect blend of culture, adventure, relaxation, and luxury.

Why Choose Look Book Fly for Your Sri Lanka Tour?

Tailored Itineraries

At Look Book Fly, we understand that every traveler has unique interests and preferences. Our tour packages are designed to be flexible and customizable, allowing you to craft an itinerary that suits your needs. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a beach aficionado, we have the perfect package for you.

Comprehensive Services

From the moment you book with us, we take care of all your travel needs. Our packages include everything from flights and accommodations to local transportation and guided tours. We ensure a hassle-free experience so that you can focus on enjoying your trip. Our team of experienced travel professionals is always on hand to assist you, providing personalized service and expert advice.

Affordable Luxury

We believe that travel should be an enriching experience without breaking the bank. Our Sri Lanka tour packages offer excellent value for money, combining affordable prices with high-quality services. We partner with top hotels, resorts, and local service providers to ensure you receive the best possible experience at the best possible price.

Highlights of Our Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Colombo: The Vibrant Capital

Start your journey in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital city. Explore its diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. Visit the National Museum to delve into the country’s rich history, stroll through the beautiful Viharamahadevi Park, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and dining scene in areas like Galle Face Green and Pettah.

Kandy: The Cultural Heart

Next, head to Kandy, a city steeped in history and culture. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists worldwide. Explore the scenic Kandy Lake, and don’t miss the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to a vast collection of tropical flora. Experience the traditional Kandyan dance performances that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Sigiriya: The Ancient Fortress

Discover the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb to the top of this imposing rock to witness the breathtaking views and the remnants of an ancient civilization. The nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, with its stunning statues and frescoes, is another must-visit attraction.

Nuwara Eliya: The Hill Country

Escape to the cool, refreshing air of Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England.” Surrounded by tea plantations and scenic landscapes, this hill station offers a perfect retreat. Visit a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a cup of world-famous Ceylon tea. Explore the picturesque Gregory Lake and take a leisurely stroll through Victoria Park.

Bentota and Galle: Coastal Bliss

End your journey on the stunning southern coast of Sri Lanka tour packages. Relax on the pristine beaches of Bentota, indulge in water sports, or take a river safari on the Bentota River. Explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its charming streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant boutiques and cafes.

Unforgettable Experiences Await

"Our Sri Lanka tour with Look Book Fly was a dream come true. The itinerary was well-planned, and we got to experience the best of Sri Lanka's culture, nature, and history. The accommodations were top-notch, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. We highly recommend Look Book Fly!" - Ananya and Raj, Mumbai.

"We had an amazing time exploring Sri Lanka with Look Book Fly. The tour was well-organized, and every detail was taken care of. From the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene beaches of Bentota, it was a perfect holiday. Thank you, Look Book Fly, for making our trip so special!" - Priya and Akash, Delhi.

Book Your Sri Lanka Adventure Today

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Experience the beauty and charm of Sri Lanka tour packages with Look Book Fly – your trusted travel partner for extraordinary journeys.

[gokitetour]

7 interesting things you need to know about Armenia

With its rugged mountainous terrain and ancient heritage, Armenia has a unique blend of natural beauty and historical wonder. From being one of the oldest wineries in the world to being the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion, Armenia’s heritage is deep and fascinating. The capital city of Yerevan features a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern development. This small country also has breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Mount Ararat, which, although located in modern-day Turkey, has medieval monasteries, ancient churches, and archaeological sites to its credit. The country of Armenia, which remains a great symbol of its supposed past, is famous for its. Here are seven fascinating things to know about Armenia that highlight its unique beauty and enduring spirit. A hidden gem in the South Caucasus region, Armenia is a country steeped in history and culture, offering rich experiences to those willing to explore its depths. Armenia’s seven fascinating aspects make it a place unique and exciting.

7 interesting things you need to know about Armenia

1. Practicing Christianity

Armenia adopted Christianity as the state religion in 1800 AD and retains the distinctive title of the First Nation. St. Gregory the Illuminator and King Tiridates III presided over this grand event. As a result, Armenia has ancient churches and monasteries, many dating back to the first centuries of Christianity. 303 A.D. Echmiadzin Cathedral, built in 1900, is considered the oldest cathedral in the world and is the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Visitors to Armenia can explore these historical and religious sites and learn about the spirituality of the country's deep heritage.

2. Ancient winemaking traditions

Armenia has one of the oldest winemaking traditions in the world, with evidence of grape production dating back more than 6,000 years. Discovered in 2007, the Areni-1 cave revealed the oldest known wine cellar in the world, complete with fermentation vessels, wine printing vessels, and storage vessels. This is an ancient practice even today, and Armenia produces wine varieties that reflect long-standing knowledge in grape production. The country’s internationally recognized wines, especially those made from indigenous grape varieties such as Areni Noir, Wine lovers visiting Armenia can visit the vineyards and taste some of the region’s best wines.

3. A wonderful landscape

Armenia’s diverse and beautiful landscapes range from rugged mountains to dense forests and arid deserts. The Lesser Caucasus Mountains dominate the country’s terrain, with Mount Aragats being the highest peak at 4,090 meters. Although Mount Ararat, a symbol of national pride on the Armenian flag, is located just across the border in Turkey, Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, makes Armenian culture and history a major part of its personality.

4. Rich cultural heritage

Armenia’s cultural heritage is a testament to its storied past and vibrant present. The country is known for its unique Armenian architecture, including beautifully carved stone, khachkars (stone crosses), unique temple frescoes, and Yerevan museums such as the Matendaran (Institute of Ancient Manuscripts). Some of the oldest manuscripts in the world and some of the documents in literature and science are preserved. Showcasing the country’s historical contributions, Armenian music and dance, with their unique songs and rhythms, play a central role in the country’s cultural identity and preservation.

5. Armenian food

Armenian cuisine is an intriguing blend of flavors, reflecting the country’s geographical and historical influences. Specialties such as lavash (traditional flatbread), khorovats (barbecue), and dolmas (stuffed grape leaves) are an integral part of Armenian cuisine. Fresh herbs and spices combine with age-old cooking techniques to create delicious and nutritious dishes.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, often including Armenian brandy, which is renowned for its quality and smoothness and is favored by celebrities such as Winston Churchill.

6. A resilient soul

Armenia’s history is resilient. The Armenian Genocide, in which an estimated 1.5 million Armenians died in 1915, is a poignant chapter in the country’s history. Despite such tragedy, the Armenian people showed remarkable strength and resilience. On April 24th, the genocide is commemorated every year, and the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan stands as a solemn reminder of the past and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Armenian people.

7. Warm hospitality

Armenians are known for their warm and friendly hospitality. Family and community play an important role in Armenian society, and this is reflected in the welcoming nature of the people. Travelers are often invited to share meals, celebrate festivals, and participate in local customs. This genuine hospitality makes a visit to Armenia a comprehensive and enriching experience, leaving a lasting impression on people exploring this fascinating country.

Conclusion

Armenia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering every traveler a unique experience. From its uniqueness as a leading Christian country to its ancient winemaking traditions to its stunning landscape and rich cultural heritage, Armenia captivates and inspires, and the resilient spirit of its people and their hospitality add to the beauty of this fascinating country. Whether exploring its historic monasteries or sampling its delicious cuisine, Armenia promises an unforgettable trip. Obtaining an Armenia visa is a simple process for those planning to visit, opening the way for an enriching journey in this amazing country.

[orthodoxydaily]

Saints&Reading: Friday, May 24, 2024

may 11_may 24

THE HOLY EQUAL-TO-THE-APOSTLES FIRST-TEACHERS AND ENLIGHTENERS OF THE SLAVIC PEOPLES, THE BROTHERS CYRIL (885) AND METHODIUS (869)

Saints Cyril and Methodius, Equals of the Apostles, and Enlighteners of the Slavs came from an illustrious and pious family living in the Greek city of Thessalonica. Saint Methodius was the oldest of seven brothers, Saint Constantine [Cyril was his monastic name] was the youngest. At first Saint Methodius was in the military and was governor in one of the Slavic principalities dependent on the Byzantine Empire, probably Bulgaria, which made it possible for him to learn the Slavic language. After living there for about ten years, Saint Methodius later received monastic tonsure at one of the monasteries on Mount Olympus (Asia Minor).

Saint Constantine distinguished himself by his great aptitude, and he studied with the emperor Michael under the finest teachers in Constantinople, including Saint Photius, the future Patriarch of Constantinople (February 6).

Saint Constantine studied all the sciences of his time, and also knew several languages. He also studied the works of Saint Gregory the Theologian. Because of his keen mind and penetrating intellect, Saint Constantine was called “Philosopher” (wise). Upon the completion of his education, Saint Constantine was ordained to the holy priesthood and was appointed curator of the patriarchal library at the church of Hagia Sophia. He soon left the capital and went secretly to a monastery.

Discovered there, he returned to Constantinople, where he was appointed as instructor in philosophy. The young Constantine’s wisdom and faith were so great that he won a debate with Ananias, the leader of the heretical iconclasts. After this victory Constantine was sent by the emperor to discuss the Holy Trinity with the Saracens, and again he gained the victory. When he returned, Saint Constantine went to his brother Saint Methodius on Olympus, spending his time in unceasing prayer and reading the works of the holy Fathers.

The emperor soon summoned both of the holy brothers from the monastery and sent them to preach the Gospel to the Khazars. Along the way they stayed in the city of Korsun, making preparations for their missionary activity. There the holy brothers miraculously discovered the relics of the hieromartyr Clement, Pope of Rome (November 25).

There in Korsun Saint Constantine found a Gospel and Psalter written in Russian letters [i.e. Slavonic], and a man speaking the Slavic tongue, and he learned from this man how to read and speak this language. After this, the holy brothers went to the Khazars, where they won a debate with Jews and Moslems by preaching the Gospel. On the way home, the brothers again visited Korsun and, taking up the relics of Saint Clement, they returned to Constantinople. Saint Constantine remained in the capital, but Saint Methodius was made igumen of the small Polychronion monastery near Mount Olympus, where he lived a life of asceticism as before.

Soon messengers came to the emperor from the Moravian prince Rostislav, who was under pressure from German bishops, with a request to send teachers to Moravia who would be able to preach in the Slavic tongue. The emperor summoned Saint Constantine and said to him, “You must go there, but it would be better if no one knows about this.”

Saint Constantine prepared for the new task with fasting and prayer. With the help of his brother Saint Methodius and the disciples Gorazd, Clement, Savva, Naum and Angelyar, he devised a Slavonic alphabet and translated the books which were necessary for the celebration of the divine services: the Gospel, Epistles, Psalter, and collected services, into the Slavic tongue. This occurred in the year 863.

After completing the translation, the holy brothers went to Moravia, where they were received with great honor, and they began to teach the services in the Slavic language. This aroused the malice of the German bishops, who celebrated divine services in the Moravian churches in Latin. They rose up against the holy brothers, convinced that divine services must be done in one of three languages: Hebrew, Greek or Latin.

Saint Constantine said, “You only recognize three languages in which God may be glorified. But David sang, ‘Praise the Lord, all nations, praise the Lord all peoples (Ps 116/117:1).’ And the Gospel of Saint Matthew (28:18) says, ‘Go and teach all nations....’” The German bishops were humiliated, but they became bitter and complained to Rome.

The holy brothers were summoned to Rome for a decision on this matter. Taking with them the relics of Saint Clement, Saints Constantine and Methodius set off to Rome. Knowing that the holy brothers were bringing these relics with them, Pope Adrian met them along the way with his clergy. The holy brothers were greeted with honor, the Pope gave permission to have divine services in the Slavonic language, and he ordered the books translated by the brothers to be placed in the Latin churches, and to serve the Liturgy in the Slavonic language.

At Rome Saint Constantine fell ill, and the Lord revealed to him his approaching death. He was tonsured into the monastic schema with the name of Cyril. On February 14, 869, fifty days after receiving the schema, Saint Cyril died at the age of forty-two.

Saint Cyril commanded his brother Saint Methodius to continue with their task of enlightening the Slavic peoples with the light of the true Faith. Saint Methodius entreated the Pope to send the body of his brother for burial in their native land, but the Pope ordered the relics of Saint Cyril to be placed in the church of Saint Clement, where miracles began to occur from them.

After the death of Saint Cyril, the Pope sent Saint Methodius to Pannonia, after consecrating him as Archbishop of Moravia and Pannonia, on the ancient throne of Saint Andronicus (July 30). In Pannonia Saint Methodius and his disciples continued to distribute services books written in the Slavonic language. This again aroused the wrath of the German bishops. They arrested and tried Saint Methodius, who was sent in chains to Swabia, where he endured many sufferings for two and a half years.

After being set free by order of Pope John VIII of Rome, and restored to his archdiocese, Saint Methodius continued to preach the Gospel among the Slavs. He baptized the Czech prince Borivoi and his wife Ludmilla (September 16), and also one of the Polish princes. The German bishops began to persecute the saint for a third time, because he did not accept the erroneous teaching about the procession of the Holy Spirit from both the Father and the Son. Saint Methodius was summoned to Rome, but he justified himself before the Pope, and preserved the Orthodox teaching in its purity, and was sent again to the capital of Moravia, Velehrad.

Here in the remaining years of his life Saint Methodius, assisted by two of his former pupils, translated the entire Old Testament into Slavonic, except for the Book of Maccabbees, and even the Nomocanon (Rule of the Holy Fathers) and Paterikon (book of the Holy Fathers).

Sensing the nearness of death, Saint Methodius designated one of his students, Gorazd, as a worthy successor to himself. The holy bishop predicted the day of his death and died on April 6, 885 when he was about sixty years old. The saint’s burial service was chanted in three languages, Slavonic, Greek, and Latin. He was buried in the cathedral church of Velehrad.

NEW MARYR OLYMPIA ABBESS OF MITYLENE (1235)

A Great Sign, p. 115): "The officer said he came from Kalloni, where he dwelt in a monastery. The officer explained how an empress built the Karyes Monastery. The officer described it as a large complex with an imperial suite or cell. The officer told Kanellos that there were three icons still remaining: one underneath the church, another at the holm-oak, and the third in the forecourt." Kontoglou believed the military officer was Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki, since there is a church dedicated to him at Kalloni.

In 1235 the convent was attacked, demolished and set on fire by Turkish corsairs out of Crete. Many nuns were slain. The Abbess at the time was named Olympia, who attained great heights of virtue and sanctity. Her mother was from Constantinople and the daughter of a priest, and had three sisters and one brother; the latter eventually became an archimandrite. Her father, the priest, counseled his daughter Dorothea to become a nun, and in time she became the abbess at the Monastery of Karyes. Her three sisters married. Olympia's mother married a man who became a priest in the Peloponnese. It was there that Olympia was born and raised in the piety of the Orthodox faith. When Olympia was ten years old, both of her parents died, and was therefore sent to Karyes in Mytilene to her aunt, the Abbess Dorothea. There she decided to also dedicate her life to the Lord, and at the age of nineteen she was tonsured a nun. When she was twenty-five her aunt Dorothea reposed, and the sisterhood elected Olympia as her successor. She had thirty nuns under her spiritual direction, with eighteen cells at the convent.

On the 11th of May, in the year 1235, pirates attacked the convent, and at first tried to defile the nuns. Some escaped and fled into the mountains, but many were raped and slaughtered by the Turks.One of the elderly nuns, Mother Euphrosyne, who was infirm and could not walk and hide herself, was greatly tortured by the attackers. She was suspended on a tree and burned alive. All that remained of her were ashes.

Mother Olympia did not wish to flee. She chose to remain behind and endure the horrific torments she was to endure. The pirates took lit torches and burned her flesh. They then prepared a red-hot iron rod and hammered it into her ear forcing it out of the other ear. She was also tortured with candle flames. They then stripped her and stretched her on an iron door, and affixed her there to a wooden board using twenty large nails. The pirates then took three nails larger than the others and hammered them into her head. Two of the nails were driven into each ear. The third nail penetrated through her cranium. After she expired, they burned down the monastery as well as its beautiful church.

What was left of the monastery lay in ruins for about a hundred and fifty years, when a pious and wealthy woman named Melpomene undertook to rebuild it, though this time it would be a monastery for men. It was in this monastery where Saints Raphael, Nicholas and Irene were to suffer martyrdom at the hands of wrathful Turks.

In September of 1961, Vasiliki Rallis had a dream in which....Continue reading

Surce; Orthodox Christianity Then and Now

ACTS 8:40-9:19

40 But Philip was found at Azotus. And passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea.

1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" 5 And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" Then the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads." 6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" Then the Lord said to him, "Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." 7 And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. 8 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank. 10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." 11 So the Lord said to him, "Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight. 13 Then Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name. 15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake. 17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. 19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

MATTHEW 5:14-19

14 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. 17 Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

[ophii]

redrew this :3

[taruntravell]

Explore 4 Picturesque Streets Of Rome

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and charming streets. Here are four picturesque streets in Rome that you should definitely explore:

Via Condotti:

Via Condotti is one of Rome's most famous and luxurious shopping streets. It is located in the heart of the historic center, just a short walk from the Spanish Steps. The street is lined with high-end boutiques and designer stores such as Gucci, Prada, and Bulgari, making it a paradise for fashion enthusiasts.

The street itself is charming, with cobblestone pavement and elegant architecture. It's also home to the historic Antico Caffè Greco, a cafe that has been frequented by famous artists and writers over the years.

Via Margutta:

Via Margutta is a picturesque and tranquil street hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. This charming lane is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and artisan workshops.

The street is particularly famous for its role in the classic movie "Roman Holiday," where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck's characters fell in love. You can still find the iconic balcony from the film here.

Via dei Fori Imperiali:

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a grand boulevard that runs through the heart of Rome, connecting the Colosseum to Piazza Venezia. The street offers stunning views of ancient Roman ruins, including the Roman Forum and the Imperial Fora.

It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts, and you can take a leisurely stroll along this street while admiring the majestic architecture and historical significance of the area.

Via Veneto:

Via Veneto is a glamorous and iconic street in Rome, famous for its role in Federico Fellini's film "La Dolce Vita." It's known for its upscale hotels, cafes, and restaurants.

The street is lined with beautiful trees and elegant buildings, making it a perfect place for a leisurely walk. It's also a great spot for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

These are just a few examples of the picturesque streets you can explore in Rome. The city is full of charming lanes, hidden courtyards, and historic alleys waiting to be discovered, so be sure to wander and explore to your heart's content.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 5.11

330 – Constantine the Great dedicates the much-expanded and rebuilt city of Byzantium, changing its name to New Rome and declaring it the new capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. 973 – In the first coronation ceremony ever held for an English monarch, Edgar the Peaceful is crowned King of England, having ruled since 959 AD. His wife, Ælfthryth, is crowned queen, the first recorded coronation for a Queen of England. 1068 – Matilda of Flanders, wife of William the Conqueror, is crowned Queen of England. 1258 – Louis IX of France and James I of Aragon sign the Treaty of Corbeil, renouncing claims of feudal overlordship in one another's territories and separating the House of Barcelona from the politics of France. 1713 – Great Northern War: After losing the Battle of Helsinki to the Russians, the Swedish and Finnish troops burn the entire city, so that it would not remain intact in the hands of the Russians. 1812 – Prime Minister Spencer Perceval is assassinated by John Bellingham in the lobby of the British House of Commons. 1813 – William Lawson, Gregory Blaxland and William Wentworth discover a route across the Blue Mountains, opening up inland Australia to settlement. 1857 – Indian Rebellion of 1857: Indian rebels seize Delhi from the British. 1858 – The Minnesota Territory gains enough population to enter as the 32nd state of the United States of America; the date is annually celebrated in the state as "Statehood Day". 1880 – Seven people are killed in the Mussel Slough Tragedy, a gun battle in California. 1889 – An attack upon a U.S. Army paymaster and escort results in the theft of over $28,000 and the award of two Medals of Honor. 1894 – Four thousand Pullman Palace Car Company workers go on a wildcat strike. 1919 – Uruguay becomes a signatory to the Buenos Aires copyright treaty. 1970 – The 1970 Lubbock tornado kills 26 and causes $250 million in damage. 1985 – Fifty-six spectators die and more than 200 are injured in the Bradford City stadium fire. 1996 – After the aircraft's departure from Miami, a fire started by improperly handled chemical oxygen generators in the cargo hold of Atlanta-bound ValuJet Airlines Flight 592 causes the Douglas DC-9 to crash in the Florida Everglades, killing all 110 on board. 1997 – Deep Blue, a chess-playing supercomputer, defeats Garry Kasparov in the last game of the rematch, becoming the first computer to beat a world-champion chess player in a classic match format. 1998 – India conducts three underground atomic tests in Pokhran. 2011 – An earthquake of magnitude 5.1 hits Lorca, Spain. 2013 – Fifty-two people are killed in a bombing in Reyhanlı, Turkey. 2014 – Fifteen people are killed and 46 injured in Kinshasa, DRC, in a stampede caused by tear gas being thrown into soccer stands by police officers. 2016 – One hundred and ten people are killed in an ISIL bombing in Baghdad. 2022 – The Burmese military executes at least 37 villagers during the Mon Taing Pin massacre in Sagaing, Myanmar.

[drgreg]

Dr Gregory Hough

Wish I could do this cruise, which sounds amazing. An excellent beneath taking to indicate odd individuals what dr gregory hough is out there as this part of South Africa isn't accessible for the public. Hats off for Birdlife to handle this feat.

The City of Kimberley, The Capital of South Africa's Northern Cape Province. Here you will discover info on travel, tourism, data, calendar, films, citizens, promotion, capital, lodging, enterprise and historical past. Evil exists as a phenomenon and this evil doesn't solely exist in people, it also exists collectively as different people are influenced and involved. And so it becomes a power that is greater than the person. The real evil is, amongst others, found in the systems, institutions, organisations, golf equipment and contexts, which we've ourselves created, and which at some stage turn into too highly effective for ourselves.

Flock to Marion as organized by BLSA was a once in a lifetime experience and is in all probability not repeated for a couple of years to return. BLSA must be rewarded for this life-changing expertise. Seeing my first Wandering Albatross compares with being current at the birth of my son! This journey must be the “Hero” of tourism for thinking outdoors the field and enabling ordinary individuals to experience the extraordinary. Sadly needed to miss the journey and sell my ticket. But wow, it must have been SUPERNATURAL.

Despite all of the swearing, poverty and violence she did not see her mom as a nasty individual. She remembers her massive lovely brown eyes, her broad smile and her gentleness, which generally shone via. She remembers the great instances when her mother was sober, how she hugged Engela and advised her how a lot she beloved her. This lovely picture might have been so much better if alcohol had not consumed their lives.

Marion island on the bucket list for positive. Wonderful initiative by the Bird Club to flock to the islands and protect these fowl species. One of probably dr gregory hough the most wonderful journeys I even have ever done, so well deliberate and professionally done.

[impetuous-impulse]

What struck me almost immediately about this anecdote was: Captain Basil Hall must have been utterly ignorant about the "peculiar" situation of the Loo Choo people, who were in fact the inhabitants of the Kingdom of Ryūkyū, better known nowadays as Okinawa. Since the islands that make up Ryūkyū are in the Northern hemisphere, they are not in the South Pacific (that would have approached Melanesia and Australia), but the North Pacific, more specifically the China Sea.

A little history on Okinawa/the Ryūkyū Islands: it was an independent kingdom that was both a vassal state to China (from the Ming Dynasty onwards, specifically 1429) and Japan (through the invasion of the Shimazu clan from the Satsuma Domain, from 1609 onwards). Long story short, it remained (semi-)automous until was annexed by the Japanese Empire during the Meiji Era in 1879.

Due to the kingdom's proximity to Confucian civilisations, the government and inhabitants of Ryūkyū naturally adopted Confucian principles. Captain Hall, who visited the capital of Ryūkyū in 1816 by the ship Lyra, seemed to view this island kingdom as some kind of pacifist haven. After doing some light digging, Hall and John M’Leod, physician on board the Lyra's fellow expedition ship the Alceste, both wrote accounts that promoted this view. As Gregory Smits describes in the The Asia-Pacific Journal article "Examining the Myth of Ryukyuan Pacifism", an article that also provided the image above:

These accounts gushed with praise over the kindness, gentleness, and intelligence of the Okinawans, whose behavior compared especially well with the alleged boorishness and arrogance of “the Chinese.” According to Hall and M’Leod, Okinawa was a land of peace and serenity. Its residents bore no weapons and its people committed no crimes. According to Hall: “We never saw any punishment inflicted at Loochoo; a tap with a fan, or an angry look, was the severest chastisement ever resorted to, as far as we could discover.”

Hall is unlikely to have fabricated his his account—M'Leod's testimony matched his. However, their accounts of "Loo Choo" was limited to what they saw, as the Ryūkyū government applied their experience in keeping a careful balance of power between their Chinese and Japanese neighbours to the Europeans. Also from the article:

One general point to bear in mind regarding the image of Ryukyu as a pacifist kingdom is that by the nineteenth century Ryukyuan officials had become extremely adept at manipulating the kingdom’s image vis-à-vis outsiders. The most important group of outsiders was Chinese investiture envoys (sakuhōshi). Let us consider the case of vice-envoy Li Dingyuan in 1800. In Shi Ryūkyū ki, Li’s detailed record of his stay in Ryukyu, he described with much enthusiasm the plot of the kumiodori play Kōkō no maki (Tale of filial piety) and concluded with an exclamation that heaven greatly rewards those who give their lives for filial piety. [...] The play was first shown to Chinese envoys in 1756. In Li’s case, just before his departure, royal envoys unexpectedly showed up with fans, incense, and other gifts. It was the birthday of his mother in China, but Li had not told anyone in Ryukyu about it. Ryukyuan officials had done their research well, and Li was most impressed by this display of filial consciousness on their part. My point in mentioning Li’s experience in Ryukyu is simply to emphasize the skill with which Ryukyuan officials worked to portray positive images to foreign visitors. In classic Confucian values, a state governed by virtue would have little or no need for coercive force. Ryukyuans presented this same general image to European visitors as well as Chinese.

As for the Ryūkyū peoples' state of military affairs, Hall seems to imply an eternal state of pacifism with his use of present tense in describing the "Loo Choo". This smacks of him trying to emphasise a sort of moral high ground to the "warmonger" Napoleon. However, it would be a complete lie to say the kingdom of Ryūkyū had neither blades nor firearms before, during, or after Napoleon's time. The article goes into great detail about the military affairs that existed before the Kingdom became a Japanese vassal state, especially the state of the artillery in the 15th century, and the Kingdom did not just appear out of thin air—it was unified through conflict and strife. Have a read if interested—it serves as a good introductory summary.

In the end, I don't think Napoleon brought Hall's tales entirely—he too came from an island state, tossed between two larger states, that had once seceded from its rulers with dreams of remaining an independent republic. Surely, if he had known the historical context of the Kingdom of Ryūkyū, he would have understood how its people felt having to live between two beasts, and the behaviours that would produce—before he gave up the dream of Corsican independence, that is.

The Emperor is baffled by islanders of the South Pacific

Having settled where Loo Choo was, he went on to enquire about the people, making some amusing comments on their peculiarities. On telling him that they had no arms, he said, "No arms—you mean no cannon, but they have muskets?" I said not only have they no cannon, they have no swords nor spears. "Ni poignards?" asked he. "No," I replied, "We never saw any kind of warlike weapon." "Mais," said Bonaparte in a loud voice and with a manner more vehement and impatient than I had seen before, "Mais sans armes comment se bat-on?"* seemingly provoked that these simple people had no means of breaking that tranquility and peace of which, as far as we know, they are the exclusive possessors. I stated to him that they had no wars, upon which he shook his head, as if the supposition were monstrous and unnatural. When told that the people of Loo Choo had no money, he begged to question the fact. I said we had seen no money and that the people placed no value upon our gold and silver coins. He paused, and looking thoughtful, repeated to himself several times, "They do not know the use of money," and then asked how we contrived to pay for the provisions which they gave us. He was apparently much struck with the liberality of these people, who supplied us with all kinds of stock, and to so great an extent, without taking any payment. He made me describe everything we received from the natives, as well as what we had given them by way of presents.

*without arms, how do they fight?

Notes of an Interview with Bonaparte at St Helena on the 13th August 1817, written by Captain Basil Hall, Royal Navy.

[anhed-nia]

BLOGTOBER 10/17/2022: WOLFEN

WOLFEN is a fascinating thriller that is unflaggingly compelling in spite of its somewhat clunky social commentary. Its broad indictments of manifest destiny, and of the scourge of capitalism, are easily grasped in comparison with the collection of details and red herrings one has to chew through to get to the heart of this murder mystery about a series of apparent animal attacks plaguing New York City. Political aspirations aside, though, the visually stunning film is as much about the nature of perception as it is about anything else.

Adapted from a Whitley Strieber novel by director Michael Wadleigh (best known for the Oscar-winning documentary WOODSTOCK) and David M. Eyre, Jr., WOLFEN begins with the bizarre murder of an elite business mogul. The police have identified a revolutionary terrorist group as the guilty party, but the unusual killings continue with other, more innocent, less fortunate victims. Captain Dewey Wilson (Albert Finney) realizes that there is more to the story when he discovers that these specific acts of violence could only have been perpetuated by wolves—and further evidence ties these slayings to Eddie Holt (Edward James Olmos), a Native American who claims he can shape-shift into an animal form.

Wilson may be an enforcer for white, capitalist civilization, but he himself is only half-domesticated. He has been retrieved from an early retirement to work this case following an unspecified personal implosion, and his cagey demeanor suggests that whatever traumatized him then isn't done with him yet. When his reluctant partner, criminal psychologist Rebecca Neff (Diane Venora), asks why he became a cop, he replies, "I like to kill. It's a habit I picked up, and it's hard to shake." When she presses him, he first claims that he simply wounded a fellow officer while cleaning his gun; when she asks again if he's really killed before, he replies, "Why don't you ask how many?" We never find out exactly what is haunting Captain Wilson, but the film makes a sharp distinction between the importance of what we are told, versus what we perceive.

Coroner Whittington (Gregory Hines) introduces Wilson and Neff to a zoologist named Ferguson (Tom Noonan), who puts the team onto the idea that the murders most resemble wolf attacks. Ferguson is a classic wolf nerd, which is a whole Type in my personal experience: a usually-male fan of the species who jealously lauds Canis lupus's advanced form of society and perceived nobility, along with their hunting prowess. And, like many wolf nerds, Ferguson has a fetishistic attitude toward Native Americans, onto whom he transposes many of the qualities he so admires in his favorite animal. He seems to accept the notion of shape-shifters, too, as he excitedly declares, "The body is just a physical expression of the soul…reality is just a state of mind!"

In WOLFEN, reality is linked less to accumulated legal evidence, and more to the senses, which are extended in various ways. One of its more fantastical elements is the state of police surveillance, which involves a high tech command center that looks like something out of GHOST IN THE SHELL. In addition to the ability to monitor parts of the city, they are able to monitor the inside of a person, as Neff rakes various terrorist suspects over the coals in a chamber that is alive with finely tuned sensors. "The whole room is a lie detector!" its operator remarks, as he reviews thermographic readouts and voice analyses, looking for signs of stress and deception. These borderline sci-fi touches are unusual in the werewolf genre, which is usually rather earthy. However, the somewhat trippy aesthetic of these scenes is mirrored by the innovative, infrared-like photography (later used in PREDATOR) that represents the roving wolves' first-person point of view.

WOLFEN'S innovative ways of depicting sensory perception are complimented by the vision it offers of New York City, which is rarely accessible for most people. The wolves' hunting ground is the South Bronx, which in 1981 resembled the Berlin of 1945, utterly devastated and abandoned by all but the most desperate survivors. Even if you are aware of the state of such places and how they got that way, Gerry Fisher's extensive photography of this location from above and below is deeply shocking. In contrast, Fisher also gives us a stunning view of prosperous lower Manhattan from the very peak of the Brooklyn Bridge, from which Eddie Holt and other Native construction workers can see how the other half lives.

Late in the film, a battered and beleaguered Wilson wanders into the Wigwam Bar, a dive populated by Eddie's community. There, he hears about the Wolfen, semi-divine shapeshifters that the police cannot hope to defeat. "You've seen them, haven't you?" Eddie says, observing Wilson's fascinated acceptance of this story. The spell is suddenly broken by another man, who remarks dryly, "This is all just Indian jive. We've been watching too many cowboy movies!" Eddie sneers ironically at Wilson as he chimes in, "Don't even think about believing any of this shit. It's the 20th century. We got it all figured out." In this scene, the key point is about what Wilson has seen. His direct, sensory experience is elevated in importance above data, documentation, circumstantial evidence, and cultural prejudices about the nature of reality. Those other, indirect items that make up our perceptions, but that do not belong to us, are a part of how larger forces control the narrative of what happened to the Native population of America, and what still happens to places like the South Bronx.