We are like trees.

Sometimes we are planted in groves, snuggled in with others of our kind. We use the collective strength to weather storms. We share wisdom and experience through our hidden underground root system. We breathe each other’s air and know we are not alone.

But sometimes we are alone, apart from those like us. We face the howling winds of change by ourselves and remain standing when the storm has passed. We face blistering heat with no one to shade our soul. We sniff the silent air knowing there is no one nearby to lean upon.

In both scenarios we gain strength. Strength of different kinds.  Strength of different measures.

We are exactly where we need to be at exactly the time we need to be there.  Life is lends its energy to us. We just need to be like trees. Absorb the energy and release our talents no matter where fate has placed our roots.

 

Death is a funny thing.

Not funny as in humorous, although it can be, given enough time and space.

But it’s *funny* as in *strange*.

Many things can die.

A plant can die. A relationship can die. A person can die.

I think the most painful of deaths is the death of a dream. Not a dream like one has when one is asleep, but the dream of hope and potental actions that *could* have happened, had death not come knocking at the door in an unexpected way.

I’ve lived alongside death a number of times, as many of us have.  I’ve managed the aftermath a few times.

Well, maybe “aftermath” is too strong a word. Perhaps, “restoration” is a better one.

Thankfully I’ve not yet managed the catastrophic death that some must work through. Yet. That day may come. Or it may never come for me. One day at a time it is, then.

Still, those moments come my way.  I see the item set down by the person who will never come back to pick up that item again.  It’s at those times that I’m at a loss.

Someone must pick that thing up to put it where it belongs. On a shelf of memories alongside other things others have left me to pick up. Tucked away in a box with other items too painful to be gazed upon

Or, for most things, picked up to be put in the hands of others to use. Or thrown in the bin to be discarded with other items that hold no value.

It is poetic, and sad, in a way, the things death leaves for us who live to sort through.

Death is funny that way.

https://www.deviantart.com/matthewjhead/art/The-death-of-rose-208193990

“Generate a story about”

Eggs

”Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/8e1ac57f-f025-40fe-8d0a-60841f48e2dc-1689184498063-1689185076613

Once upon a time in a small village nestled deep in the countryside, there lived a young girl named Emma. Emma was known for her love and fascination with eggs. She had a collection of eggs from various birds, all carefully displayed in her room. Emma would spend hours marveling at each unique shape, size, and color.

One sunny morning, as Emma ventured into the nearby forest, she stumbled upon a magical tree known as the “Tree of Enchantment.” Its branches, filled with golden leaves, glistened in the gentle breeze. Curiosity got the better of her, and she reached out to touch one of the enchanted branches.

To her astonishment, a shimmering light surrounded her, and a mischievous voice spoke, “Oh, young one, do you wish for a magical adventure?”

Emma’s eyes lit up with excitement as she eagerly replied, “Yes, oh great tree! I would love to embark on an extraordinary adventure.”

The voice chuckled softly, “Very well, but beware, for this adventure will revolve around eggs.”

Emma’s heart skipped a beat—it was as if her dreams were coming true. Instantly, she found herself inside a magnificent egg-shaped boat floating in a river made of rainbow-colored liquids. The surroundings were a kaleidoscope of colors, with magnificent creatures swimming beneath the boat.

As they made their way upstream, Emma caught sight of a tiny blue egg floating perilously in the river. She reached out to grab it and noticed a note attached. It read:

“This egg holds the power of transformation. Use it wisely.”

Excitement and curiosity filled Emma’s heart as she pondered the possibilities. She gently held the egg in the palm of her hand and whispered, “Transform.”

In a burst of dazzling light, the tiny blue egg transformed into a majestic golden eagle. The eagle spread its wings and soared above the treetops, inviting Emma to climb upon its back.

Together, they flew through the enchanted forest, encountering animals of all sizes. They saved a young bird’s nest from a perilous fall, helped a turtle find its way back to its pond, and even guided a lost squirrel back to its family.

Throughout each encounter, Emma learned valuable lessons of empathy and kindness. She discovered that even the smallest of creatures played an important role in the circle of life.

Days turned into weeks, and Emma’s adventure grew more extraordinary with every passing moment. She met a wise owl who shared stories of ancient eggs filled with the knowledge of the world. She even befriended a group of playful faeries who taught her how to dance with the wind.

Eventually, the day arrived when Emma and the golden eagle journeyed back to the Tree of Enchantment. With a heavy heart, she bid farewell to her newfound friend, knowing that their time together had come to an end.

But as Emma stepped away from the enchanted tree, she realized that her adventure had left an indelible mark on her soul. Armed with newfound wisdom and a deeper appreciation for life, she returned to her village, eager to share her tales of the magical world she had discovered.

From that day forward, Emma’s room became a sanctuary of wonder, filled not only with bird eggs but also with sketches and poems inspired by her extraordinary journey. The villagers flocked to see her collection and hear the stories of her adventures with the golden eagle.

And so, the legacy of Emma’s enchanted adventure lived on, reminding everyone that, just like eggs, even the simplest of things can hold the most profound and magical possibilities.

“Generate a story about”

harmaxaphraxi songs

”Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/180887f6-f69f-4b86-be66-0096780e0aae-1689184287922-1689184497546

Once upon a time, in the mystical land of Harmaxaphrax, harmony reigned supreme. The harmony was not just a metaphorical concept but also a tangible force that flowed through the very essence of this enchanted realm. It was believed that songs had the power to wield this harmony and tap into the magical energy that fueled the land.

Deep within the heart of Harmaxaphrax, there existed a secret guild of bards known as the Harmonians. These skilled musicians dedicated their lives to studying and mastering the art of Harmaxaphraxi songs. They believed that these songs had the ability to heal, inspire, and even manipulate the world around them.

Harmaxaphraxi songs were a harmonic blend of melody, rhythm, and lyrics carefully crafted to resonate with the magical flow of the land. Each song possessed a unique enchantment, capable of reflecting the emotions of the composer and influencing the listener’s mood.

Among the Harmonians, there was a young and talented bard named Elara. Her voice rang with an otherworldly purity, captivating all who heard it. Elara possessed a deep connection with the harmony of Harmaxaphrax, which allowed her to compose songs that had a profound impact on those who listened.

The land of Harmaxaphrax was going through a period of unease. A mysterious darkness had befallen the kingdom, causing discord and unrest among its inhabitants. The once vibrant colors of the world were fading, and the songs that once filled the air with bliss were now filled with sorrow.

Elara felt the pain of her beloved realm, and she knew that it was her duty as a Harmonian to bring back the harmony that had been lost. With her heart heavy but resolved, she embarked on a journey to find the lost Song of Restoration, a legendary melody that could restore balance and banish the darkness that shrouded Harmaxaphrax.

Her journey led her to the forgotten songkeepers of ancient times, who guarded the ancient manuscripts and whispered secrets of the past. Through trials and challenges, Elara proved her worth, earning their trust and learning the ancient lore of the Harmaxaphraxi songs.

Armed with this newfound knowledge, Elara ventured into the heart of darkness. As she sang the Song of Restoration, her voice carried the power of harmony to every corner of the corrupted land. The once barren trees bloomed again, birdsong filled the air, and the colors burst back to life with vibrant intensity.

Word of Elara’s remarkable gift spread far and wide, and people flocked to Harmaxaphrax to witness the return of harmony. Her songs continued to heal, inspire, and bring joy to all who listened, becoming a symbol of hope for a brighter future.

As Elara basked in the adoration of the people, she never forgot the true purpose of her gift. She remained a loyal Harmonian, using her songs not only to entertain but also to guide and uplift the spirits of those in need.

And so, the legacy of Harmaxaphraxi songs lived on, resonating throughout the land, bringing harmony to every corner, and reminding all that even in the darkest times, the power of music could triumph over adversity.

“Generate a story about”

FOMO

”Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/6d987cbf-4d41-40d6-86c2-6f84890736da-1689183979875-1689184287339

Once upon a time in a small town, there lived a young man named Alex. He was a friendly and outgoing individual who always tried to live life to the fullest. However, there was one thing that often troubled him— FOMO, the Fear Of Missing Out.

Alex was known for being incredibly social and always wanted to be part of every gathering, event, and adventure that came his way. He couldn’t stand the idea of missing out on a single moment of fun, laughter, or excitement. But little did he know that his obsession with FOMO would eventually lead him on a unique adventure.

One day, as Alex was scrolling through social media, he came across an intriguing post from a new local club called “The FOMO Society.” The post promised the most exciting and exclusive experiences that were designed to cater to people like Alex who had FOMO. Without a second thought, he immediately decided to join the club.

The first event hosted by The FOMO Society was a masquerade ball held in a magnificent mansion on the outskirts of town. Alex arrived eagerly, donning a beautiful mask to conceal his identity. Inside, he was greeted by a lavish affair, filled with laughter, dancing, and joy. He felt a surge of exhilaration knowing that he was part of something so extraordinary.

But as the night went on, Alex noticed something peculiar. Every time he attempted to engage in a conversation or connect with someone, they seemed distant and uninterested. It was as if they were only there physically but mentally absent.

Perplexed, Alex decided to investigate further. He followed a group of people who were whispering and laughing amongst themselves, hoping to uncover the true nature of The FOMO Society. Little did he know that the adventure he craved for so long was about to unfold before his eyes.

As they led him through a hidden door, Alex found himself in a different world altogether. The room was dark and filled with gadgets and technological devices. It turned out that The FOMO Society was not about experiencing real-life adventures, but a virtual reality club that created FOMO-inducing simulations for its members.

The people at the club were so consumed with their virtual experiences that they had completely disconnected from reality. They had replaced their genuine connections with artificial ones, trapped by the allure of constantly seeking the next exciting moment, even if it wasn’t real.

Alex suddenly felt a pang of sadness wash over him. He realized that true joy and fulfillment could not be found by constantly chasing after the next big thing. The genuine connections he had longed for were not to be found in the virtual world but in the real world, with real people.

With a newfound understanding, Alex made a decision. He left The FOMO Society behind, determined to reconnect with the world around him. He reached out to old friends, spent quality time with family, and committed himself to being present in every moment.

Years later, Alex became a storyteller, sharing his experiences with others who had fallen into the trap of FOMO. He taught them the importance of being present, of cherishing the simple joys in life, and of building genuine relationships that stood the test of time.

And so, Alex’s journey transformed the lives of many, reminding them that the true adventure of life lies not in the fear of missing out, but in embracing every moment, both big and small, with open arms and an open heart.

“Generate a story about”

Five shining airplanes battling over the skies of Europa while the pilots have boxing matches inside them. The pilots are battling giant gummy bears who look like Robert Downy Jr.

”Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/6d1bd0ca-8ab2-494f-afdc-696e69143ae1-1689179994189-1689183978933

Once upon a time on the distant moon of Europa, five magnificent airplanes soared through the clear blue skies. These airplanes were not ordinary, for they gleamed with a radiant light and possessed extraordinary abilities. Each plane carried a skilled pilot engaged in a unique challenge – a boxing match within the confines of their aircraft.

Inside the first airplane, Captain Amelia “Iron Fist” Adams prepared for her fight. She was an expert pilot with unmatched boxing skills and a formidable reputation. Her opponent, a giant gummy bear disguised as the iconic actor Robert Downey Jr., had proven to be a formidable adversary. The stage was set for an exhilarating battle of skill and wits.

Meanwhile, in the second airplane, Lieutenant Max “Knockout” Johnson prepared for his own face-off with a gummy bear Robert Downey Jr. These battles weren’t mere competitions; they were a strategic test of survival. Max had honed his reflexes to perfection and had unmatched accuracy in the cockpit. He was determined to overcome his sugary foe, knowing that the outcome of this battle would have profound consequences for the lives they protected on the ground.

In the third airplane, Captain Emma “Furious Fury” Collins eagerly awaited the clash. She had a remarkable sense of intuition and an uncanny ability to read her opponent’s next move. Through endless hours of practice, she had discovered the secret weaknesses of the gummy bear version of Robert Downey Jr. Armed with this knowledge, she was confident she would prevail when the time came.

The fourth airplane housed Captain Riley “Lightning Strike” Ramirez, a fearless and daring pilot known for his lightning-fast reflexes. Having deep respect for Robert Downey Jr., Riley felt a pang of guilt as he prepared to face a gummy bear impersonator of his idol. Nevertheless, his duty commanded him to defend the skies, and he did so with unwavering determination.

Finally, in the fifth airplane, Lieutenant Sophie “The Sweet Slayer” Thompson prepared for her battle. A rookie among seasoned pilots, her youth belied her exceptional skill. Sophie had a secret weapon – a unique ability to blend her intense focus with an innate lightheartedness that saw her through the most difficult confrontations. As she faced her gummy bear opponent, she took a deep breath, ready to prove herself in the ultimate test.

In the skies above Europa, the five airplanes ascended higher, circling each other like celestial dancers. They maneuvered with grace, weaving through the clouds, trying to outmaneuver their adversaries. The gummy bear impersonators leapt and dodged with extraordinary agility, their rubbery bodies twisting and stretching in ways unimaginable.

Inside each aircraft, the pilots fought their battles, throwing precise punches and combinations. The deafening sound of their blows resonated through the steel hulls as the planes surged forward, locked in a fierce ballet of skill and strategy. Every movement was calculated, every countermeasure carefully timed.

Time seemed to freeze as the battle raged on, with each pilot using their unique strengths to gain an advantage. Captain Amelia unleashed thunderous punches; Lieutenant Max bobbed and weaved with agility; Captain Emma utilized her brilliant tactical mind; Captain Riley executed lightning-fast maneuvers, and Lieutenant Sophie combined her precision with lighthearted determination.

As the skirmish intensified, the pilots’ exhaustion became apparent. Drenched in sweat and breathless, they fought through the pain and fatigue, refusing to back down. The gummy bear impersonators, however, showed no signs of weariness. They continued their assault, their rubbery bodies bouncing back from every punch, as if mocking their human opponents.

In a last-ditch effort to turn the tide, the pilots pooled their knowledge and devised a joint strategy. Coordinated attacks from all five airplanes finally overwhelmed the gummy bear impersonators. With synchronized precision, the pilots fought back with renewed vigor, delivering powerful blows that caused the gummy bears to implode, returning to harmless chewiness.

Exhausted but victorious, the pilots landed their airplanes safely on the surface of Europa. The people on the ground celebrated, grateful for the bravery and skill of these five daring pilots. Though bruised and battered, they knew their mission was not over. They had protected their moon from the sugary invaders and became legends in the skies of Europa.

And so, their tale lived on, inspiring future generations of pilots and reminding them that no challenge was too great when faced with determination, camaraderie, and a touch of sweetness.

“Generate a story about”

A magical hip hop artist falling in love with a grumpy piece of paper but replace 6 with 4

“Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/79c75336-290b-49f5-8945-e8e53bf6177c-1689179716476-1689179993690

Once upon a time, in a whimsical world where music had the power to work enchantments, there lived a talented hip hop artist named Xero. Xero had risen to fame with his remarkable ability to infuse magic into his beats, using his music as a conduit for his magical powers. He could make people dance with a single note, bring joy with a simple rhyme, and even summon small sparks of fire with his rapid-fire lyrics.

One day, while strolling through the bustling streets of Hip Hop City, Xero’s eyes fell upon a rather peculiar sight. A crumpled and grumpy piece of paper lay in the middle of the sidewalk, seemingly abandoned and forgotten by the world. Something about it caught Xero’s attention, intrigued him. Despite the oddness of the situation, he couldn’t resist picking the paper up.

As soon as Xero’s fingers touched the grumpy paper, an unexpected surge of magic jolted through his body. He found himself face to face with a talking piece of paper that resembled a tiny grumpy person. It was Paper4, a magical entity who had existed for centuries. Paper4 had the unique ability to grant wishes but had become grumpy and despondent over the years as no one had sought its services in centuries.

Surprised but undeterred, Xero decided to strike up a conversation with Paper4. As they spoke, Xero realized that beneath its grumpy exterior, Paper4 had a heart yearning for companionship and understanding. Xero, being a musician who thrived on connecting with people, felt an instant connection to the lonely piece of paper.

The duo began spending more time together, creating melodies that danced through the air, lyrics that wrapped around hearts, and rhythms that stirred emotions deep within. As they delved deeper into their musical collaboration, they discovered an unparalleled creative fusion. Xero’s magical lyrics found resonance on Paper4’s surface, sparking a radiant display of vivid colors and patterns.

With their unique bond, Xero and Paper4 began captivating audiences around the world. Their performances became legendary, with fans flocking to witness the extraordinary blend of music and magic that they created together. The grumpy paper transformed, becoming both a platform and a muse, allowing Xero to unleash his creativity in entirely unseen ways.

As they journeyed together, Xero and Paper4 discovered that love can arise in the most unexpected places. An unbreakable bond woven by music and magic had blossomed between them. Xero realized that Paper4 had been craving recognition and appreciation, and in him, it had found the perfect partner.

Over time, the grumpy piece of paper slowly morphed into a cheerful, radiant entity that reveled in the joy of being loved and appreciated. The world marveled at their unique collaboration, and other artists were inspired to push the boundaries of their artistry, just as Xero had done.

And so, Xero and Paper4 continued their musical journey, enchanting the world with their harmonious blend of hip hop and magic. Their story served as a reminder that true magic lies not just in the extraordinary, but often in the simplest and most unexpected connections.

“Generate a story about”

A magical hoopyfroot falling in love with a grumpy mumpywump

”Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/c622ea26-982d-4471-963f-72d53d9811e1-1689179314836-1689179715929

Once upon a time in the enchanting land of Fantasia, lived a magical creature called a Hoopyfroot. Hoopyfroots were known for their vibrant colors and playful nature. They bounced around with joy, spreading happiness and magic wherever they went.

In a cozy little village nestled at the edge of Fantasia, there lived a grumpy Mumpywump. Mumpywumps were known for their gloomy demeanor and sour disposition. They preferred their own company and had little tolerance for anything cheerful or whimsical.

One sunny morning, as the Hoopyfroot skipped through the village, it stumbled upon the grumpy Mumpywump sitting all alone on a moss-covered stump. The Hoopyfroot’s heart filled with curiosity and a flicker of excitement. It had never encountered a Mumpywump before.

“Hello, Mr. Mumpywump! What brings you here all by yourself?” the Hoopyfroot chirped, approaching the Mumpywump cautiously. The Mumpywump, startled by the Hoopyfroot’s cheerful voice, scowled and grumbled, “Go away! I don’t need your silly happiness in my life.”

Undeterred, the Hoopyfroot hopped closer and asked, “But why do you always appear so sad, Mr. Mumpywump? Perhaps a sprinkling of my magic can brighten your day?” It twirled in the air, releasing a sparkling trail of vibrant colors.

The Mumpywump couldn’t resist but look up at the spectacle, its grumpy expression slightly softening. “You think your magic can make me happy?” it scoffed.

The Hoopyfroot nodded eagerly. “Of course! Magic has the power to bring joy to even the most desolate of hearts.”

With a skeptical sigh, the Mumpywump agreed to let the Hoopyfroot share its magic. Over time, the Hoopyfroot and the Mumpywump spent their days together, the colorful magic of the Hoopyfroot transforming the Mumpywump’s surroundings. Flowers began to bloom, butterflies fluttered, and laughter resonated through the village.

As the Mumpywump witnessed the transformative power of the Hoopyfroot’s magic, its grumpy nature slowly dissipated. It discovered the joy in the simplest of things – the warmth of the sun, the sparkle of dewdrops, and the melodic chirping of birds.

One evening, as the sun painted the sky with hues of gold and pink, the Mumpywump, no longer grumpy, turned towards the Hoopyfroot and said, “Thank you, my dear friend. Your magic has not only brightened my days but has shown me the beauty in this world that I had forgotten.”

The Hoopyfroot smiled warmly, its heart swelling with happiness. It had found a true companion in the once-grumpy Mumpywump. Together, they twirled and danced under the twilight sky, spreading magic and joy throughout Fantasia.

And so, in this extraordinary tale, a magical Hoopyfroot and a grumpy Mumpywump found love and happiness, proving that even the most unlikely of friendships can bloom in the embrace of magic and understanding.

 

“Generate a story about”

A magical dragon falling in love with a grumpy potato

“Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/f1003858-62ce-4fed-908b-b09adb304731-1689178814296-1689179314289

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled between rolling hills, there lived a powerful and majestic creature known as Draco, the magical dragon. Draco possessed shimmering scales of emerald green and eyes that sparkled like stars in the night sky. The villagers revered him, considering him a protector and a symbol of good fortune.

However, Draco had a secret. Deep within the vastness of his heart, he held an insatiable loneliness. Despite his strength and beauty, he longed for companionship. He yearned for someone to share his adventures with, someone who could see past his fearsome exterior and into the depths of his soul.

Curiosity led Draco to wander into the nearby potato fields one day. As he roamed amongst the rows of potatoes, he stumbled upon a rather surly-looking spud named Timothy. Timothy, perpetually grumpy due to the monotonous existence of being an ordinary potato, had never encountered anything more exciting than a passing rainstorm.

Draco, drawn to the absurdity of the situation, approached Timothy with caution. The potato scowled, but it soon became clear that Draco’s presence intrigued him. Draco, in turn, was fascinated by the potato’s unique demeanor. He spent days getting to know Timothy, sharing stories of his daring adventures and listening to the potato’s grumbles.

Although Draco was accustomed to dealing with humans, he found Timothy’s company strangely comforting. The potato’s constant grumpiness contrasted with the dragon’s own zest for life, creating an unlikely harmony that suited them both. Draco’s presence, it seemed, had somehow managed to ignite a spark of joy within Timothy’s gloomy existence.

As the days turned into weeks, Draco’s attachment to Timothy grew stronger. They explored the village together, Draco soaring through the sky while Timothy embraced the novelty of moving beyond the potato fields. They visited farms, watched the sunset from mountaintops, and even snuck into the village bakery for midnight indulgences.

Their companionship blossomed into an extraordinary bond that defied logic. The villagers, bewildered by the sight of a magical dragon and a grumpy potato roaming the streets together, soon accepted their strange pair as an example of the unlikeliest of friendships.

One fateful evening, as Draco and Timothy watched the stars dot the dark canvas of the sky, Draco summoned the courage to express his deepest secret. He confessed his love for Timothy, acknowledging that this strange bond had transformed beyond friendship for him.

Timothy, though perpetually grumpy, was taken aback. No one had ever declared their love for a potato before. But as he pondered Draco’s confession, he felt a warmth envelop him. In that moment, Timothy realized that the grumpy exterior that defined him masked the capacity to feel and reciprocate love.

From that day forward, Draco and Timothy lived their lives side by side, reveling in the magic of their companionship. The villagers marveled at the sight of a dragon and a potato, understanding that love, in all its forms, had the power to transcend the limits of expectation.

And so, the magical dragon and the grumpy potato continued to adventure together, proving that love could be found in the most extraordinary of circumstances, reminding all who witnessed their bond that sometimes, the most unexpected connections could be the ones that brought the greatest joy.

“Generate a story about”

A magical dragon falling in love with a grumpy skunk

“Ok”

https://www.aistorygenerator.org/generate/ef75b378-7b1e-47f3-95dc-f80de81113b7-1689178786655-1689178813983

Once upon a time, in the enchanted forest of Gleaming Woods, there dwelled a magnificent, emerald-hued dragon named Sylvana. With her shimmering scales and glistening wings, she was known throughout the realm as the guardian of ancient treasures. But for all her mystique and power, Sylvana was feeling a peculiar emptiness deep within her heart.

One fine morning, as the sun emerged from beneath the horizon, Sylvana set off on her daily exploration of the woods. Curiosity drove her deeper into the forest, until she stumbled upon a peculiar sight – a grumpy skunk named Oscar, perched on a moss-covered log.

Unlike the other woodland creatures, Oscar was perpetually wrapped in a cloud of grumpiness. No amount of sunshine, chirping birds, or playful squirrels seemed capable of lifting his spirits. Yet, despite his sour facade, Sylvana could not help but be drawn to him.

Intrigued by Oscar’s grumpiness, Sylvana decided to approach him cautiously. As she gracefully glided towards him, her wings disturbing the air, Oscar’s eyes widened in surprise, his bushy tail bristling.

“What do you want, dragon?” Oscar grumbled, his voice thick with skepticism.

“I’ve come to speak with you, Oscar,” replied Sylvana, her voice gentle and soothing. “I have heard tales of your grumpiness, and I find it fascinating.”

Oscar’s eyes narrowed

Y’all have asked how I keep calm under stressful conditions. I attribute this to stoic philosophy. I didn’t realize it until I got older that I was practicing it.

At first I recoiled from the thought as I didn’t understand that practicing stoicism doesn’t mean I’m negating my Christian roots. It’s not a religion as it doesn’t require worship. It’s a mindset. Both can coexist.

I joke about how being an eternal pessimist keeps me joyful. After all, when one always looks at the worst case, one is always pleasantly surprised by anything that turns out.

Also I joke about how that guy at work who is a pain is giving me free opportunities for self help as I learn patience.

I also know that the colors of emotions each of us own and choose to color with can create a uniquely beautiful painting. My emotional painting may not be beautiful to others but that’s ok. That’s something I created with the selection of emotions I chose to pick up. With caution and practice I’ll get better.

Anyways I’ve rambled on enough. Here’s a guy I like who has a lot to say about how to create and live a peaceful life. Peace in our hearts means peace in the home. If we’re very mindful then peace in the home can spread to peace in the world.

Inspired by my family sms group chat:

Got an idea for a sandwich shop that has many different types of pork sausages and meats.

We’ll call it the Infi-deli

(We hear the rimshot, followed by the sound of replies)

  • Hehehe I was thinking “Six Pork” and you can sell beer also
  • Pork kebabs 😋 Specially if they’re bacon wrapped yes
  • If you let the shoppers pick out the live ones it can be called “Wiggly Piggly”
  • Don’t forget we need Hawaiian Porkers paradise!
  • Porker Platter
  • Just Can’t Ham Enough featuring the “You bacon me crazy” sandwich
  • The Ham It Man, I’m a Doctor special
  • You can sell tiny Shakespeare sandwiches at a shop called “The Hamlet”
  • In Florida, the MiHami
  • The California branch can be called “Ham Francisco”
  • The Germany location featuring live accordion players and sides of sauerkraut will be named “Porkafest”
  •  Those visiting in Las Vegas will go to “Porker Face”

Here’s a gallery of butterflies on mountains 🙂

These were created using Stable Diffusion.

swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcs8 swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcso swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcsY swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcfo swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcfU swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcfA swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcSQ swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcR8 swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcRs swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcHQ swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcG8 swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEcGo swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbmg swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbmM swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbl8 swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbZM swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbY8 swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbYo swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbIk swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbIQ swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbH8 swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbDE swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbCw swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEbCc swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEa7w swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEa7c swarms_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Watercolor_AAGPEa7I clump_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEawU clump_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEawA clump_of_butterflies_in_the_mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEavs butterflies_in_the_mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEaSU butterflies_in_the_mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEaSA butterflies_in_the_mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEaRs swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEZlo swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEZlU swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Symbolist_AAGPEZlA swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Beautiful_Lightin_AAGPEZa8 swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Beautiful_Lightin_AAGPEZao swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Beautiful_Lightin_AAGPEZaU swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Beautiful_Lightin_AAGPEZKE swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Beautiful_Lightin_AAGPEZJw swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Beautiful_Lightin_AAGPEZJc swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Landscape__Beauti_AAGPEY90 swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Landscape__Beauti_AAGPEY9g swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Landscape__Beauti_AAGPEY9M a_swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Cinematic__Land_AAGPEYrs a_swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Cinematic__Land_AAGPEYrY a_swarm_of_butterflies__mountains__Cinematic__Land_AAGPEYrE