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Life lessons with chrysanthemums



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. Student: Master, I have brought these chrysanthemums to offer as a gift. They are a symbol of autumn and their beauty fills me with wonder.
Master: Ah, young one, you have chosen well. These flowers are a favorite among poets and artists for their gentle grace. But did you know that chrysanthemums have a rich and fascinating history?
Student: No, Master. Please tell me more.
Master: Legend has it that a wise man discovered a magical herb that could cure any illness. He gave the herb to the emperor, who was so pleased with the gift that he named it after the two Greek words for “golden” and “flower” – chrysos and anthemon. And thus, the chrysanthemum was born.
Student: That is a beautiful story, Master. I had no idea that chrysanthemums had such a mystical beginning.
Master: Indeed, my dear student. In ancient China, chrysanthemums were considered symbols of longevity and good fortune. People of the Tang dynasty would even drink chrysanthemum wine to ward off evil spirits and extend their lives. And in Japan, the chrysanthemum is the symbol of the Imperial Family, a powerful emblem of honor and tradition.
Student: I had no idea that chrysanthemums were so revered. Are there any practical uses for them?
Master: Indeed there are, my student. The leaves and petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to make a tea that has powerful healing properties. It can ease headaches, reduce fever, and even improve digestion. And if that is not enough, chrysanthemum tea has a delicate, floral flavor that will transport your taste buds to the gardens of heaven.
Student: That sounds wonderful, Master. And what about the aesthetic value of chrysanthemums?
Master: Ah, student, chrysanthemums come in a rainbow of colors, from fiery reds to gentle pinks to vibrant yellows. Their intricate petals unfurl like delicate origami, a marvel of nature’s artistry. Chrysanthemums can be arranged in stunning bouquets or planted in gardens to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Student: Thank you for enlightening me, Master. I will never look at a chrysanthemum the same way again.
Master: Remember, inquisitive one, to appreciate the simple things in life, for they are often the most profound. And may the beauty of the chrysanthemum fill your heart with peace and wonder.
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Tulip Wars



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. It was the early 17th century, and the Dutch Republic was at the height of its economic power. The country’s merchants and traders had amassed great wealth through international trade, and their appetite for luxury goods knew no bounds. One of the most coveted of these goods was the tulip, a flower that had recently been introduced to the Netherlands from the Ottoman Empire.
At first, the tulip was seen as a mere curiosity, but it soon became a symbol of wealth and status. The flower’s intricate and exotic beauty captured the imaginations of the Dutch, and they began to trade and collect tulips with increasing fervor. Prices soared, and soon the tulip trade was a large portion of the Dutch economy.

But with this newfound wealth came a dark side. Tulip traders became obsessed with acquiring the rarest and most beautiful specimens, and a black market emerged where tulips were traded for vast sums of money. Tulip bulbs were sold for more than the price of a house, and fortunes were made and lost in a single day.
As the tulip craze reached fever pitch, tensions began to rise between traders and speculators. Rival factions formed, and bitter feuds broke out over the ownership of prized tulips. These disputes soon turned violent, and the streets of Amsterdam were filled with bloodshed.
The government of the Dutch Republic tried to intervene, but it was too late. The tulip wars had begun, and they raged on for years. Traders and speculators fought tooth and nail over the precious bulbs, with fortunes and reputations on the line. The tulip trade became a game of high stakes and high drama, with each new auction or sale sending shockwaves through the country.
In the end, the tulip wars proved to be a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and excess. The Dutch Republic recovered from the tulip craze, but the scars of the tulip wars remained for generations. The tulip, once a symbol of beauty and prosperity, had become a symbol of greed and folly. And the memory of the tulip wars served as a warning to future generations about the dangers of unchecked speculation and greed.
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Primrose Perfection



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. Primula vulgaris, also known as the Common Primrose, is a charming and delicate plant that has captured the hearts and imaginations of people for centuries. From mythology and folklore to medicinal and biological uses, this flower is a true wonder of nature. Let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of Primula vulgaris.
Let’s start with the etymology of the name. “Primula” comes from the Latin word “primus,” which means “first,” because these little beauties are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring. “Vulgaris” simply means “common,” because these flowers are found throughout Europe and are one of the most commonly recognized wildflowers.
But enough about Latin roots, let’s dive into the more exciting stuff. According to mythology, Primula vulgaris was associated with fairies and was believed to have magical properties. It was said that if you picked a primrose, you would anger the fairies and bring bad luck upon yourself. In fact, in some parts of Europe, it was believed that if you found a primrose growing in the wild, it was a sign that fairies had been there recently.Shakespeare mentions primroses seven times. In Hamlet, Laertes, before leaving for France, warns his sister, Ophelia, against developing feelings for Hamlet. Ophelia tells him to heed the advice he is giving her:

In addition to fairy tales, Primula vulgaris also has a place in more practical folklore. In Ireland, it was believed that if you rubbed the leaves of a primrose on your skin, it would protect you from evil spirits. And in some parts of England, it was believed that if you put a primrose under your pillow, you would have sweet dreams.
The Primrose is more than just a pretty face in mythology and folklore though; It has a long history of medicinal uses as well. In ancient Greece, the plant was used to treat nervous disorders and headaches. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to be effective against insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Today, it is still used in some herbal remedies for these conditions, as well as for respiratory issues like coughs and congestion.
But what really sets Primrose s apart is their cheerful and upbeat personality. With their bright yellow center and delicate petals, it’s hard not to smile when you see one. In fact, the flower never fails to brighten my day, even on the gloomiest of days.
So there you have it, Primula vulgaris, the charming and delightful flower that has captured our hearts and imaginations for centuries. From mythology and folklore to medicinal and biological uses, this little wonder is truly a gem of nature. So the next time you see one, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and maybe even rub a leaf on your skin for good luck.
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Nature finds a way



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. Driving down a quiet country road in Wales, something caught my attention: an old abandoned house with a tree growing out of the chimney. The sight was so striking that I had to stop and take a photo. As I stood there, marvelling at the sight, I couldn’t help but think about the incredible power of nature to reclaim what is hers.
There’s something awe-inspiring about seeing nature slowly take over man-made structures. It’s a reminder that no matter how much we may try to control our environment, nature will always have the final say. This tree is a perfect example of this. The house had clearly been abandoned for some time, and the tree had found its way into the chimney, with no apparent soil, taking root and growing tall.
As I looked closer, I noticed that other parts of the house were also being reclaimed by nature. Ivy was creeping up the walls, and a group of pigeons were perched on the windowsill. They seemed to have made themselves at home in the living room, where the windows had been broken and the door hung off its hinges. It was a stark reminder that everything is temporary, and that we are just a small part of a much larger ecosystem.
It’s not just abandoned buildings that nature reclaims though. We see it happening all around us, in small ways and big ways. Cracks in the pavement allow for tiny weeds to grow, and fallen leaves and branches break down and become soil for new growth. It’s a never-ending cycle of life, death, and renewal that has been happening for billions of years.
This natural reclamation can also be seen in the aftermath of natural disasters, like hurricanes or wildfires. In the wake of these events, we see plants and animals begin to return to the areas that were destroyed, slowly rebuilding and renewing the ecosystem.
As I stood there, watching the tree sway in the breeze, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. It was a reminder that no matter what happens in the world around us, nature will always find a way to thrive. It’s a powerful lesson that we can all learn from, especially in times of uncertainty.
As I got back into my car and continued down the road, I couldn’t help but think about the incredible resilience of nature. It’s a force to be reckoned with, and one that we should all respect and appreciate. So if you ever see a tree growing out of a chimney or a patch of wildflowers in an unexpected place, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and power of nature reclamation.
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The Ticking Time Bomb



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. As I walked along the deserted pier, the sound of the crying waves echoed in my ears. The sky was overcast and the only light came from the faint glow of a four-faced clock. As I approached it, I noticed that each face displayed a different time – how odd. It left me feeling uneasy, as if I had stumbled upon something I wasn’t supposed to see.
I heard a soft rustling in the darkness behind me. I turned to see a just visible old fisherman sitting on a nearby bench. He looked up at me and nodded in acknowledgement. I walked over to him and hesitantly asked about the clock. He looked at me with a mix of sadness and confusion, as if he was grappling with something, and had been for the longest time. Something beyond his understanding.
“The clock represents the shambles that is the state of the Earth,” he said slowly. “Each face symbolises one of the four primordial elements of earth, water, air, and fire. They are out of sync; caused by the climate crisis.”
I listened intently, trying to grasp the significance of his words. In a daze, I turned to the clock and studied it carefully. It was as if the clock was alive, its hands moving at different speeds, each face telling a different story. The air face showed a time of destruction, the earth face showed a time of decay, the water face showed a time of flood, and the fire face showed a time of burning.
Suddenly, I felt a sense of urgency. I turned back to the old fisherman to ask him what needed to be done, but he was gone. The bench was empty, as if he had never been there. I looked around, but there was no sign of him. It was as if he had vanished into thin air.
As I walked, trancelike from the clock, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had been witness to something otherworldly that I just couldn’t comprehend. The four-faced clock had shown me a glimpse of the state of the Earth, a warning of what was to come if we didn’t act soon. It has shown me that time is running out. Then I heard the old fisherman in the wave’s whispers, “The time for action is now.”
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Subtle Tones



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. Within conversation, subtle tones refers to the nuances and variations in the way we speak, including the pitch, volume, and emphasis on certain words or phrases. These tones can convey a range of emotions, attitudes, and intentions, often beyond the literal meaning of the words we use.

For example, imagine someone saying “I’m fine” in a low, monotone voice, versus saying it with a bright smile and a lilt in their voice. The difference in tone can suggest very different emotions or meanings, such as apathy versus enthusiasm.
Similarly, when we engage in conversation, our tone can convey various social cues, such as friendliness, dominance, or hostility. These cues can shape how others perceive us and how they respond to us.
Now, let’s compare this with the monochrome photo. At first glance, the image may seem simple and straightforward. However, upon closer inspection, we can see subtle differences in the tones and shades of white, which create depth and texture within the image.
For instance, the white of the horse’s coat appears slightly brighter or darker than the white of the background. This difference in tone creates a sense of contrast and dimensionality, making the horse stand out more.
Likewise, in conversation, subtle changes in tone can create a sense of contrast and depth, highlighting certain words or ideas and making them have greater impact.
Moreover, just as the white horse on a white background can be challenging to photograph, subtle tones in conversation can be difficult to detect and interpret accurately. Our own biases, assumptions, and emotional states can influence how we perceive and respond to these subtle cues.
Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of these subtleties within our own speech and the speech of others. By paying attention to these nuances, we can develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and those around us, and communicate more effectively and empathetically.
Initially, ideas which seem unconnected, subtle tones within conversation and a photo of a white horse, share similarities in terms of the subtle nuances and variations that create depth, texture, and contrast. By being aware of these subtleties, we can become better communicators and better appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around us.
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Empty Chair Full Of Memories



Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. As I gaze upon the empty chair with its colourful crocheted blanket draped over the back and a soft cushion on the seat, memories flood my mind. This chair was once occupied by a woman who lived a long and fulfilling life. Born in 1930, she had witnessed the world change in ways unimaginable to her younger self.
She would often sit here, her aged body taking comfort in the softness of the cushion, the warmth of the blanket enveloping her. Her stories would flow like a river, taking me on a journey through time. She had seen wars, economic depressions, and technological advancements that would make her head spin.
But through it all, she remained steadfast, her love for life undiminished. The crocheted blanket and cushion were her constant companions, comforting her in moments of solitude and providing warmth in chilly evenings.
And then, one day, she was gone. The chair remained, but it was empty. The crocheted blanket and cushion still rested on the chair, but they were no longer needed. The chair was no longer a place of comfort and companionship, but a reminder of what was lost.
Next to the chair stands an old Aga stove, a faithful companion to the lady who once sat in the chair. The kettle still sits atop, the tea towels drying, waiting for their owner to return. But she never will.
The chair, the crocheted blanket, the cushion, the Aga stove, all relics of a time gone by. A time when things were simpler, when people took comfort in the warmth of a fire, the company of loved ones, and the joy of a hand-crafted blanket.
As I sit here, looking at the empty chair, I am reminded of the transience of life. Of how we come and go, leaving behind memories and objects that once held great meaning but now remain as only reminders of what was. The empty chair is a symbol of the passing of time, of the impermanence of all things.
In the end, as I look closer, I see the beauty in the impermanence. The chair and its bits and pieces may no longer serve their original purpose, but they remain as reminders of a life lived to the fullest. A life filled with love, joy, and companionship. And in that, there is comfort, knowing that even though she is gone, the memory of the lady who once occupied this place will live on forever.
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Great Great Grandfather’s Hunting Accident.

Hey there! I’d love to share a photo with you – it’s of my great great grandfather and his wife (who looks very kind) with their five daughters. My great grandmother is actually the one in the middle at the back (who looks very stern I think.)

Tap to view in my redbubble gallery. Interestingly, I came across some information about his life through the census and local newspaper records. It turns out that he had a hunting accident where he unfortunately lost his eye and injured his arm which must have been why he was recorded as a helpless almsman in one census. He must have been a tough man as in the next census, he was listed as a “rock cracker,” which I’m assuming means he worked with a sledgehammer to crack rocks (with one arm!)
I also found out that he had some family responsibilities. On top of raising five daughters with only one eye and one arm, according to the local newspaper, he was ordered by the court to help pay for the maintenance of his father – my great great great grandfather, who had come to Wales from Ireland. It’s fascinating to learn about my family’s history!
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The Art of Finding Stillness


When it comes to finding peace of mind, different cultures have developed various practices and traditions to help people achieve this state of inner calmness and tranquillity. Let me share a few with you.

Quiet Waters, Clear Mind
Tap to view in my redbubble gallery.Spending time in nature is another way that different cultures find peace of mind. In Japanese culture, for example, they practise forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku, which involves immersing oneself in nature and focusing on the senses to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Meditation is a popular practice in many cultures around the world with strong connections to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism. It involves focusing your mind on a specific object, thought, or sound to achieve a state of deep relaxation and mental clarity.
Yoga calms many people: it’s a physical and mental discipline that originated in ancient India and is now widely practised in different cultures. Yoga involves a series of postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques that promote relaxation and inner peace.
Mindfulness is a technique that has gained popularity in Western cultures, but it comes from Buddhist tradition. It involves paying attention to the present moment without judgement and can help people reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Music is a powerful tool that promotes peace of mind. Listening to calming music can reduce stress and anxiety, while playing an instrument or singing can help achieve inner calmness and focus.
Dance can induce a feeling of release. In many African cultures, drumming and dance are used to connect with ancestors and the spiritual world, promoting a sense of community and well-being
Ultimately, finding what works best for you is key. What helps one person find peace of mind may not work for another, so explore different practices and traditions to discover what resonates with you and makes you feel calm and centred.
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The Sweet Sweet Chestnut



Big Tree!
Tap to view in my redbubble gallery.In the midst of all the historical events that took place 1000 years ago, a small but significant act occurred: a seed was planted in the ground, the beginning of what would eventually grow into a towering tree that has stood the test of time. This 1000-year-old tree, with its roots firmly planted in the earth set me thinking: it has watched as empires rose and fell, as cultures and societies evolved and changed.
The Byzantine Empire was at war with the Bulgarian Empire, with both sides fighting for control over the Balkans.
The Holy Roman Emperor Henry II, also known as Saint Henry the Exuberant, was consolidating his power in Germany, and was beginning to expand his influence into Italy.
The Fatimid Caliphate was in control of Egypt and parts of North Africa, and was at odds with the Abbasid Caliphate in Baghdad.
The Song Dynasty was in power in China, and was beginning to establish itself as a major force in East Asia.
In the Americas, the Mayan civilization was still thriving in Central America, while the Ancestral Puebloans were building impressive structures in what is now the southwestern United States.
The Vikings were raiding and trading throughout Europe, with many of them settling in areas such as Ireland and Scotland
History is a complex tapestry of events and people that have shaped our world into what it is today. Throughout the ages, civilizations have risen and fallen, empires have come and gone, and technologies have advanced at an incredible pace. Despite all of these changes, however, there are certain fundamental aspects of human experience that remain constant. Love, grief, greed, joy, and loss are just a few examples of the universal emotions that have always been a part of the human experience, and that will continue to be so in the future. The physical world may change, but the essence of what it means to be human remains the same, and it is this common thread that ties us to the past, present, and future.
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