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Tips for Coping With Changes Brought on by the Pandemic
Whether we like it, change is a fact of life that we can’t avoid. There are some changes we expect, but life also throws us some curveballs that we never see coming. Going through a pandemic is one life change most of us never predicted, and now that it’s here, we’ve experienced just how quickly our everyday lives can be upended. These unexpected changes are both big and small. They come with some surprising benefits, along with extra challenges.
There’s a lot outside our control, but what you can control is how you respond to these changes. As Grace Allison says, in her book, ‘Do You Have a Dream Workbook 5 Keys to Realize Your Dream’, it takes “courage, confidence, and creativity” to change your life for the better.
Recreate Routines
Most of us thrive on routine, even if we aren’t aware of it. But since the pandemic, your routine probably looks different. Maybe you’ve lost your job or have worked from home. You may not get to church to worship or the gym to work out.
According to Business Insider, two ways to respond to these changes successfully include (1) setting a new schedule, and (2) focusing on what you can control. How can you set a schedule that includes your usual activities, only done from home? If you’re missing your usual workout, try a workout app or video. If you’re missing your faith community, the Mayo Clinic recommends using this time to focus even more on your spiritual life, even if that’s something you have to do outside of church.
Explore New Possibilities
While recreating routines is a positive step, this may also be the perfect time to try something new. If your job situation has changed, why not look into fresh opportunities? Even while some companies are laying off employees, others are going strong, and many are finding the talent they need through hiring freelancers. For example, if you’re knowledgeable about desktop publishing and typesetting, including experience with Adobe InDesign, an online job board like Upwork is perfect for finding your first clients. Or perhaps you’re an animal lover and would like to start your own dog-walking business.
Alternative possibilities can also come in the form of new hobbies. Have you heard that more people are gardening these days? Gardening is one hobby that provides more happiness than other daily activities, including ones we’re now missing (like shopping or eating at your favorite restaurant). So if you haven’t tried gardening before, or previously didn’t have enough time for it, starting a garden now is a productive way to find an alternative source of happiness.
Manage Change With Creativity
When we’re confronted with changes are outside our control, the only thing we can do is adapt. However, it’s perfectly okay if you’re feeling sad, frustrated, angry, and even anxious. These feelings are valid, but what you don’t want to do is let them consume you. Working with a therapist or spiritual advisor is one healthy way to process these emotions, and another way is to do something creative.
If you enjoy writing, consider starting a gratitude journal, or try one of these tips from PsychCentral for writing to help process emotions. If you’re more drawn to visual arts, dedicate some time to an art form you enjoy, and maybe even take online lessons. No matter what you pick, spending time on a creative activity is productive, which is a great way to get a sense of accomplishment during a time when many of us miss that feeling.
We’re all missing our normal lives right now. But what if your old normal isn’t the life meant for you? Maybe this new normal holds opportunities you never would have sought. It’s okay to miss your old routines, but don’t stay so focused on the old that you let these new opportunities pass you by!
Photo credit: Pixabay
Do You Have the Courage of Einstein?
Albert Einstein was never always famous. Born a Jew, he attended a Catholic school where he faced bullies daily chanting words of antisemitism. At age 16 his parents moved to Italy without him. Left alone, he had no one to help him face the brutal torture of his teachers and peers. When he graduated from college, his professors refused to give him referrals to find a job. What did Albert have that kept him going? A compass his father gave him when he was a boy. The compass was more than a direction finder. It became his moral code, a dream to stay on course, to discover what is time, what is light. Albert had courage, the heart to continue his journey, no matter who stood in his way or what tried to stop him. In this time of darkness, find your spiritual compass. Maybe you too can change the world.
Chapter 15 – Hate
The room filled with wooden desks arranged in three precisely regimented double rows facing the wall-to-wall blackboard at the front of the room. Albert made his way to a seat at the end of one row. Dropping his books on the desk, he searched for Johann. It surprised him to see his friend sitting next to Werner von Wiesel. When Johann glanced up, Albert gestured for his friend to sit next to him. Johann shook his head and looked down, unable to meet Albert’s eyes. Puzzled, Albert shrugged and sat as a blond boy took what was to have been Johann’s seat.
His back to the class, the teacher, Herr Hamlin, spoke while he wrote on the blackboard, “What… does it… mean… to be… German?” Dressed in a simple, dark-green wool suit, the tall, white-haired gentleman stood stiffly erect. He turned to face the class. “Today we will discuss the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 and its impact on the people of Germany. Can anyone tell the class how the war of 1870 changed Germany?”
The boy next to Albert raised a hand.
Herr Hamlin gestured with chalk. “Yes, Herr Frederick?”
Ulrich Frederick stood, cleared his throat, and precisely stated his answer. “Prussian and German victory brought about the final unification of Germany. It was under King Werner I of Prussia.”
Hamlin, facing the class, crossed his arms. “Who were the two military leaders who conducted the war?”
Werner von Wiesel, shouted in a bored tone from his seat, “Napoleon III for France and Bismarck for Germany.”
Hamlin nodded, “Good.” Then he smiled. “You know, Herr von Wiesel, I served under your father during the Franco-Prussian War.”
Werner puffed himself up as he stood. “Yes, Herr Hamlin. When my father talks of the war, he often mentions you and your bravery as a soldier.” All eyes on him, Werner smiled and straightened his waistcoat. “My father feels that all Germany should have helped the Prussians.”
In a loud voice, Hamlin stabbed the blackboard with his index finger. “The young of our nation needs to be reminded of who we are. So, tell me, Herr von Wiesel, what does it mean to be German?”
Werner pulled his shoulders back and thrust out his chest, saying, “To be German means to be STRONG!”
Hamlin nodded approvingly, then turned to Albert’s seatmate. “Herr Frederick, what do you say it means to be a German?”
“That one is brave and honorable,” Herr Frederick said, then sat with near-military precision.
All eyes turned to Albert. He stood to answer, but before he could get a word out, Werner spat out, “You’re a Jew, not a German. You’re a foreigner who will disgrace the German Army when you get drafted next year.”
Albert glared at Werner, putting his hands on his hips. “I only want to be a scientist. I will not serve in the army. I do not believe in war.” What an arrogant loudmouth, Albert thought.
Werner turned and gave Johann a wicked wink. He pointed at Albert and taunted, “As you can see by his comment, Herr Hamlin, our Jew is a coward.”
Albert’s face reddened as his anger rose. “To my mind, compulsory military service is the prime cause of moral decay. It threatens not just the survival of our country, but of our very civilization!”
Herr Hamlin removed his spectacles and polished them with a clean, white handkerchief. In a stern voice he warned, “Careful, Herr Einstein, you could face imprisonment if you do not serve.” Holding his glasses up to the light and approving of their cleanliness, he said, “After all, the German National Army and universal military service were organized after the Franco-Prussian War. Bismarck’s vision brought about the victory over Napoleon III that led to the unification of our nation. You wouldn’t challenge that, now would you?”
Albert clenched his jaw but had the sense to hold his tongue as Herr Hamlin continued after a pause. “Napoleon III surrendered in January 1871, after being under siege from Sept 19, 1870. The Treaty of Frankfurt was signed on May 10, 1871. France ceded Alsace, except Belfort and eastern Lorraine, to Germany.” Hamlin put his spectacles back on, saying, “The German Army could occupy northern France until we received payment of five billion Francs. Now, Germany has the strongest economy on the Continent thanks to this war.” Hamlin turned, then turned back. “And the strongest military!”
Once again turning his gaze from Albert, Hamlin said, “I am going to end our discussion of what it means to be German and move on to other topics. However, I want each of you to attend the Volkisch rally this evening. It is at the Englischer Garden.” Straightening the rare items on his already meticulously neat desk, he instructed, “Be prepared to give your answer to my question in our next class.”
Albert frowned, thinking about the rally that was sure to be filled with anti-Semitic rhetoric. Those thoughts kept him distracted for the rest of the period. The nationalistic talk that promoted violence and hatred was becoming more prevalent by the day.
When Herr Hamlin dismissed the class, Albert gathered his books, then looked to where Johann had been sitting. His friend was no longer there. In fact, Albert did not see him anywhere in the rapidly emptying room. Leaving the classroom, he resumed his search outside the building.
He eventually found Johann huddled under a tree facing away from the Gymnasium. “Johann?” Albert saw his friend cringe at the sound of his voice. Albert carefully sat on the ground next to Johann. “What’s the matter, my friend?” Johann would not look at Albert and only shook his head, nervously glancing around. Puzzled, Albert tried again. “So, why did you sit with Werner today? You and I usually sit together.”
A forlorn whimper escaped Johann’s lips. With pain in his eyes, he turned to his friend. “Albert, I know we have been friends for years, but…” Johann paused, then sighed, “no more.” Albert gasped as if someone had hit him in the stomach. Johann was more a brother than a friend. Johann looked down and said, “Things are changing in Germany. Bullies like Werner…”
“…are rising in popularity and influence. I know,” Albert completed Johann’s sentence.
“Yes,” said Johann bleakly. “It’s gotten to where harm will come to my family and me if I remain friends with you.”
Albert’s eyes filled with tears. “You’re right. It’s getting that ugly.” Albert’s heart filled with resolve. “We cannot let anything happen to you or your family because of me and mine.” Albert gripped Johann’s arm. “We will not surrender to this hatred… but we will go along with what we must do to keep you safe, for now.”
Tears spilled onto Johann’s cheeks. He looked into Albert’s eyes. “I knew you would understand. You are a better man than I am, Albert.” He squeezed Albert’s arm again, as he made his way to his feet. “And… thank you, Albert. We will find a way through this. I know we will.”
Albert could only nod as he watched his friend walk away. “We will find a way.” But he sighed as he got back up. But God only knows how long it will take and what will happen in the meantime, he thought. Albert walked back toward the school building, a shivery feeling of dread filling his stomach, and sadness weighing down his heart.
How to Deal with the Inner Critic Inside
Did you know you have a five-year-old child inside your belly? Mental health professionals call it the inner child. Its job is self-preservation. When a life storm comes along like the pandemic, the little one takes the driver’s seat. When you feel scared, your heart beating fast, mind swimming, what will I do next, who will rescue me? The little one inside sends you in directions to protect you. Sometimes the direction might eat and drinking foods for comfort. Using credit cards, and spending money you do not have.
When a crisis hits help the little one to feel safe. Take care of yourself by creating priorities. Eat healthy foods for each meal. Sleep at least six hours a night, naps when needed. Exercise walking helps the inner child to quiet. Meditation, prayer and giving thanks for what you have.
The inner child likes to communicate through writing. I recommend my “Do You Have a Dream Workbook 5 Keys to Realize Your Dream”. The self-directed Workbook has ten chapters with a 5 step-process to direct you in a positive direction. When used for at least thirty days you will feel greater confidence, courage, and creativity.
https://www.modernmysticmedia.com/
Grace Allison Blair is an award-winning self-help and motivational author, and podcast host, who has assisted thousands to find their spiritual wisdom to solve everyday challenges.
Hall Ways Einstein’s Compass Audiobook Review
HALL WAYS REVIEW: Audio Book Review: Einstein’s Compass is a HIGHLY imaginative mix of historical fact, biblical and mythological references, and spiritual mysticism that will keep readers’ brains whirling and fully engaged.
“He held his breath as the stink of foul, stale blood
and dark purpose filled the air.”
Figurative language coupled with rich, detailed descriptions make it easy to imagine the fantastic, but it also makes it easy to get bogged down in it. Though the narrator is spectacular, I think it would have been easier for me to absorb the more technical or spiritual elements of the book by reading with my eyes or better — enjoying the book through a combination of print and audio so I could re-read passages and see spellings of words and names.
I very much enjoy how Einstein’s Compass offers readers a full fantasy experience but also ties it into characters based in history – namely Albert Einstein, but also in religious history, like Moses and Ezekiel, for example, and how there is a whole team of otherworldly beings at work behind the scenes influencing the direction of the world. These actors exist in history, in parallel worlds, and even in limbo as they transition from death to after-life. The bottom line of the book implies that there is much divine and/or otherworldly guidance and intervention in the lives of some – like Albert Einstein – whose paths are meant for greatness.
“My only god is mathematics.”
The story provides a good window into the likely frustration that a young, brilliant Einstein had with classmates and adults who didn’t understand and/or felt intimidated by his intelligence. Also, it is interesting to view young Einstein in context of his being a Jew when already the anti-Semitism is building up and he and others are being singled-out and persecuted.
At special times in human evolution, a traveler is given the keys to soul transcendence: The practices that awaken the awareness of oneself as a soul and as more than that, knowing their oneness with God. This is not a theoretical understanding, but the actual experience of that living reality.
The story gets a little deep at times and includes challenging vocabulary, which could lose some readers. There are astral planes and light travelers (Jesus being the first of the latter), plus there is seduction and references to arousal in the story, so it’s probably more geared for mature, advanced young adult readers. I recommend the book for readers who can go in with open minds and seek new experiences and viewpoints likely different from anything they’ve read before. Einstein’s Compass would be an excellent book for reading clubs because it begs to be discussed.
ABOUT THE NARRATION: Narrator Curt Bonnem does an outstanding job performing the voices of a huge cast of characters, both male and female (and genderless), in a variety of accents, of those both good and evil. I especially liked his voicing of Jehovah — the ultimate good guy, and Raka – the ultimate bad guy. There were no technical issues with the recording, and I listened at regular speed and was never impatient with the pace.
Thank you to the author for providing me an audio book download in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give.
The tour is being sponsored by Grace Blair. The gifting of this audio book did not affect my opinion of it.
Einstein Meets Galileo The Father of Physics
On a clear sunny spring day, me and forty visitors from around the world got off the cruise bus in Pisa, Italy. Within a ten-minute stroll we are inside the rock gate of the Square of Miracles, a five-story reinforced twelve century feudal citadel. Transported back in time, I am in awe of the cerulean sky and the Piazza die Miracoli. The Baptistery in the foreground, the Duomo in the center, and the wedding cake leaning tower in the background on the right. Consecrated to Mary of the Assumption, the Romanesque Chesia Cathedral rests next to the slimming bell tower and tempts me to go in. The smell of Frankincense greets my nose when I stroll through the enormous bronze doors. Have I entered a Michelangelo painting? I glance up to discover the Medici gilded ceiling and painted dome. The interior of the cathedral is finished with black-and-white marble. Pointing to the hanging incense burner, our tour guide explains Galileo came upon his conclusion of time by observing the sway of the lamp and holding the beat of his pulse in his wrist. He established his gravity experiment on the top of the leaning bell tower next door. It is here I envision the chapter where in a dream Einstein meets his hero Galileo.
Einstein’s Compass A YA Time Traveler Adventure
Morning sunlight shined through the train compartment’s window and glinted in the twelve brilliant jewels as Albert swung his treasure back and forth, then lowered it to his lap. The stones shimmered like stars in a rainbow of light. A spiral of light seemed to project from the compass, and Albert floated up into it and into another dimension of time. Mesmerized, Albert drifted off.
The smell of frankincense woke him. He saw enormous flying buttresses and realized he must be in a Gothic cathedral. Seated next to him in the pew was a bearded, balding gentleman. He stared at the man, watching the swings of a bronze chandelier that hung from the ceiling on a long metal chain and swung back and forth at regular intervals.
After a moment, the man spoke. It was not a language Albert knew, but he somehow understood. “Most interesting, don’t you think?”
“Uh, I’m not quite sure what I’m looking at, sir,” Albert responded respectfully.
The man nodded, then said, “Put your hand over your heart for a moment, then touch your wrist with your fingers.”
Albert complied. “Your heart goes bump, bump, yes?” Albert nodded. “And your pulse does the same.”
“It does,” Albert confirmed.
With his arm, the man mirrored the swing of the lamp. “You see, young man? I have observed that no matter how large or small the arc, the chandelier will complete its back and forth in the same amount of time.”
“Really?” Albert asked, suddenly fully engaged in the conversation.
The man nodded solemnly.
As the subject matter of the discussion began to sink in, Albert suddenly had a sense of whom he was speaking to. Awed, he hesitantly asked, “Would you be, uh, Galileo, sir?”
With a twinkle in his eye, the man affirmed it. “I must admit, I am he.” Galileo leaned forward. “Now, we have established that we can measure time, correct?” Albert nodded. “Then remember that and come with me,” he said, setting down a prayer book and motioning for Albert to follow.
As they strolled outside to a leaning tower nearby, Galileo picked up two rocks, one twice the size of the other. With Albert in tow, he climbed the stairs to the top of the tower. Leaning over the edge, Galileo said, “Watch. I drop them at the same time.”
The rocks fell, and both landed together with a distant thump. “See, gravity! You must use gravity with time.”
Albert nodded thoughtfully, leaning further over the ledge to stare again at the rocks. Suddenly he was falling over the crowning ridge of the tower… He came back to awareness in the train car compartment with a jerk.
I have been with the father of physics! Albert thought with awe as he put the compass back into his pocket and absently gazed out the compartment window, considering what Galileo had said.
@Bublishme #historicalfiction #timetravel #Einstein
Coronavirus Karma From Atlantis?
Did you know the scientists of Atlantis performed DNA experiments? They discovered how to combine the genetics of animals with humans. It was a world-wide business for the military Aryan scientists to create Centaurs, Satyrs and Minotaur’s. By blending genetics, the Atlanteans thought they could play god. Today scientists across our world are playing god by creating invisible death through biological weapons. What occurred in Atlantis is happening today. Viruses that found in humans and viruses only found in certain animals coexisted in the bodies of these combined beings. This artificial movement of combining what would never happen was a huge aberration from natural law and opened a doorway for viruses to move from one species into another. We have had lethal viruses appear through the crossover of animal viruses mutating into a form that humans can carry. SARS, MERS and EBOLA all originated in bats. Swine flu originated in pigs. We are as technological as the Atlanteans were when they destroyed their world. There is a spiritual purpose for the Coronavirus. The Atlanteans created Noah’s flood to clear the planet of men’s abominations. Let us learn to balance science with humanity. Let us choose with wisdom, compassion and love, not power and greed.
Einstein’s Compass a YA Time Traveler Adventure
Prolog
Since Raka’s meeting with the council, the focus of the Aryan laboratory had moved to DNA and using it for transformation. General Tora-Fuliar envisioned an army of Draconian soldiers with which he could conquer the world. Frustrated at the lack of results the council leader visited the lab each week for a progress report. DNA experiments required creative scientists, and creativity was not something the militaristic Aryans were noted for. It was evident that the best talent came from Atlantis. They mounted an aggressive recruitment campaign there.
Light healers on Atlantis desire was to serve the higher Light of God with love. This intention provided them with the clarity to heal from a pure state of giving. Loving came forward and lifted the healer and the patient. The healer’s material needs—food, shelter, and clothing—came as a part of their serving. The glamour of substantial gains and recognition offered by the Aryans, however, distracted them from the reward of serving. Increasingly generous offers seduced the Atlantean Light workers away from the healing temples to the Aryan DNA research labs. Even some high priests sold their knowledge and healing secrets to the dark empire.
The DNA experiments on Aryan required a high-quality controlled food source. Scientists used everything from cows to mice. But the trials were not without challenge. The Aryan’s successes in cloning had sparked fierce debates among scientists and the public. The people of Atlantis questioned the morality of cloning plants, animals, and possibly humans. But few knew that cloning was just a cover for a secret project of DNA experiments combining animal and human DNA. On the surface, it was producing novelty animals that had become big business on Aryan. Wealthy families and even countries were buying hybrids like Minotaur and Centaurs.
The clone business on Aryan also played into Raka’s plan for revenge. Once he had become adept at using his new body, he made his way back to the city. He set up an observation outpost in an abandoned structure in the remote industrial area near the DNA research complex. Now that he had a plan, he could afford to be patient. For several weeks he watched the movements of the scientists, military, and guards.
The general routinely showed up alone in his golden anti-gravity vehicle at the end of the workweek, parking away from the building to avoid attention. He appeared to be meeting with Dr. Aimee, the director of the science facility, for progress reports on his new military species.
As days—then weeks—passed, Raka’s patience wore thin. If progress weren’t made soon, even the general would realize that he would not produce an army of warriors like Raka—an army Raka fully intended to take over. Pacing in his ramshackle hideout, with a heightened awareness of everything around him, Raka sensed the time was approaching for him make his move. He felt increasingly impatient, believing he would soon know the moment to strike.
By the time the general returned to the facility, Raka was nearly bursting out of his skin. It took incredible self-control to hold himself back and merely observe. His senses perked up as he saw the general storm out of the facility. The man appeared furious, a sure sign he had received more bad news. The irate general made his way to his flyer and slammed its door. Raka couldn’t believe his eyes; the general had caught his hand in the door. Even from this distance, Raka could hear the general bellow in pain as he jumped out of the vehicle, blood spurting from his self-inflicted wound. Raka immediately smelled the warm, precious blood, urging him into a frenzy. The general’s screams pushed Raka over the edge, and he burst from his hiding place, streaking across the open field toward the wounded, infuriated man.
The general was not aware of Raka’s presence until it was too late. A brutal blow from Raka’s tail rendered his victim unconscious. Raka with his razor-like talons grabbed the general by the collar. With his brute dragon strength, the dragon picked up the general like a rag-doll and flew back to his hiding place. Inside, he threw the general onto a battered table. The stunned man moaned as he struggled back to consciousness. When the general’s vision cleared, his eyes grew wide at the sight of the dragon standing above him, foul saliva dripping from the creature’s lips fell on his head. “Wha…”
Raka grinned and put one of his talons to his lips. “Shhh, General, not that anyone can hear you in here.” He reached out a hand-like claw, offering to help the general sit up. Reflexively, the general grasped Raka’s nail and struggled to a sitting position. Raka slowly placed his other claw on the general’s shoulder. Then, with a ghastly smile, Raka viciously yanked the general’s hand and ripped the general’s entire arm from its socket. As his victim screamed in terror and agony, Raka regarded the arm thoughtfully. He gnawed on it with relish. The general lived long enough to see Raka devour his other arm and start on his legs. He did not live long enough to see Raka transform into a perfect replica of the man he was consuming.
As Raka finished licking the last of the general’s blood from the floor, he heaved a contented sigh. He lay down to rest and recover once the transformation was complete. He closed his eyes, reveling in the thoughts of what he could do now as the head of the Aryan Military Council.
@Bublishme
Einstein’s Mind Experiments Changed The World
Albert Einstein was never always famous. When he was a child, his father presented him a compass. The directional device inspired the growing analyst to dream of what is time, what is light? His life was difficult. When he was a juvenile, he struggled when his parents moved to Italy and left him with his relatives. Alone and Jewish in a Catholic school, boys terrorized him and called him names. He refused to memorize material. His tutors in grammar school punished him for not following the rules. Distraught he sought for an educator who would aid him to uncover the answers to his quest. When we failed his entrance exams at the Polyteknic, he found Professor Winteler, who taught Albert mind experiments. Through a system of head, heart and hand he learned how to use his visionary mind. The disappointment of not getting into the Polyteknic turned into a breakthrough for Albert. If you find yourself stuck in your life or broken hearted during this global crisis, I urge you to find a new direction. Albert did and transformed the world. If you would like a free #audiobook of “Einstein’s Compass” friend me on Facebook, send me your email through Messenger and I will send you the codes to download your free audiobook. #Wfh
Einstein’s Compass a YA Time Traveler Adventure
Thought Experiment.
Six male students in their mid-teens dressed in wool suits, starched white shirts, and blue-and-yellow neckties sat two by two in a single row, anxiously awaiting the start of class. Albert had enrolled in Aarau High School after his unsuccessful attempt to enter the Polytechnic. He had passed the math and science section of the exam with flying colors. Yet the test showed Albert needed more study in languages, biology, literature, political science, and botany. While somewhat disappointed with the test results, he saw it would only take a year at Aarau before he could get to the Polytechnic, and he was okay with that.
The smell of fresh white chalk stimulated Albert’s mind. He focused on the three Hs the headmaster, Professor Winteler, wrote on the blackboard; the principles of teaching the school followed.
Heart – to explore what students want to learn. To develop their moral qualities, such as helping others.
Head – to understand objects, concepts, and experiences.
Hand – to learn the craft of doing good work and develop their physical skills.
Completing his writing with a flourish, the teacher turned to face his class. His brown eyes twinkled, and there was genuine warmth and enthusiasm in his voice as he said, “I have found that people learn more easily accessing their intuition, their inner powers than they do through their minds.”
In the front row, Albert relaxed. For the first time in his school life, the reject from the Gymnasium in Germany felt connected.
The wise professor put down the chalk and rubbed his hands together. He adjusted his spectacles and said, “Our first exercise will be a thought experiment. It will assist us when we want to consider a hypothesis or theory when the purpose is to think through by steps to its consequences. This practice will increase your personal power of thought and imagination. What’s more,” he said with a smile, “by going inward, you begin to trust yourself.”
A sandy-haired student raised his hand, and the professor acknowledged him. “Yes, Gregory, you have a question?”
“I do, sir,” the boy said as he stood.
The professor smiled. “Good. I encourage questions. What do you have?”
“In this mind experiment, do we have our eyes open or closed?”
“For our first experiment, you will have your eyes closed. Though I am sure sometimes during the day, you find yourself in a daydream where your mind is drifting in space even with your eyes open.” Gregory nodded as the professor continued. “We will use a what-if, dreamy kind of imagination to allow you to create possibilities.”
As Gregory sat down, the professor instructed, “Now I want you to remove your jackets, loosen your ties, and sit up straight with your arms and legs uncrossed. Place your hands on your thighs, palms up.”
The students did so and waited for the next direction.
“Close your eyes and take a slow, deep breath,” Winteler said. “Inhale, then slowly let go of all the air in your lungs.” He paused for a few seconds. “Again, this time breathe in more slowly.” As the students did this, he paused, then said, “Hold the air inside.” He paused again. “Let go of all the air, slowly. Allow your body to relax. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breath out. If your mind chatters, just acknowledge that, then bring your focus back to your breathing.”
Albert sat with his back straight, though it relaxed him, surrendering his mind. Lost in the experience, the dreamer did not even hear what the teacher said next because he found himself enveloped in a warm glow, and he felt like he was rising above the Earth.
Do Not Worry – Live Your Life
George Washington once said, “Worry is the interest paid by those who borrow trouble.” The Coronavirus narratives in our world shows how the media deals with us with their doomsday scenarios. Excitement has halted flying while stock markets plunge. Is the virus scare real? We are a population of three hundred and fifty million individuals. According to the CDC 1,215 have been diagnosed in the United States, in addition to 36 deaths. The U.S. government and public health partners are implementing aggressive measures to slow and contain transmission of COVID-19 in the United States. Politics in the USA is playing out as the far-left Democrats and media who hate Donald Trump push the tension as hard as they can. Prosecution of our president failed as did all their new tactics. The virus is a perfect storm to stop our president and our way of life. Those most affected by the virus are the elderly, not children, or people who are healthy. Do not borrow trouble from the media. Turn off the television. Stop reading scary posts on social channels. Live your life.
Einstein’s Compass a YA Time Traveler Adventure
Plagued with inexplicable dreams, Albert had not slept in days. To compound his malaise, he missed Mileva, who had stayed with her parents. He took in a deep breath, then reluctantly pushed himself out of his warm cocoon. As the covers fell aside, a tattered flyer landed on the floor. “Discover the Secrets of The Mystical Travelers” it proclaimed. An illustration of a dignified-looking man of indeterminate age with a hint of a mischievous smile bore the inscription, “Pater Benjamin, A Great Spiritual Master.”
Albert negotiated the books and the litter-strewn path to the washstand, where he cringed as he poked a hole in the crust of ice that had formed overnight in the pitcher by the washbasin. With a vacant gaze and bloodshot eyes, Albert frowned into the oval gilt mirror above the coarse, soap-scummed porcelain. He patted down his unkempt hair that was standing up at odd angles, and he stroked the wiry growth under his nose.
Why am I having these nightmares? He took in a ragged breath and tried to reason with himself. When I attempt to do thought experiments, I discover myself in another universe with Johann. Am I going insane? I cannot concentrate on my studies. Albert poured some cold water into the basin, splashed it on his face to clear his head, and prepared to shave.
Coronovirus Fact of Fiction?
In 1981 author Dean Koontz composed, “The Eyes of Darkness”. The novel depicts a virus called “Wuhan-400,” referred to after the Chinese city known as the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak. Are we seeing fiction become a reality? When the coronavirus spread in the winter of 2019, my husband Dr. John Blair, a military sociologist, served on a biological warfare panel in Washington, DC. after 9/11. Today he wonders if the Chinese are experimenting with the coronavirus. What if a virus like the one we have now is weaponized with anthrax? Last week the FBI arrested Charles Lieber, the chair of Harvard University’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. Dr. Lieber made “fictitious and fraudulent statements” to the U.S. Defense Department about his ties to a Chinese government program to recruit foreign scientists and researchers. “No country poses a greater, more severe or long-term threat to our national security and economic prosperity than China,” said Joseph Bonavolonta, special agent in charge of the F.B.I.’s Boston field office. “China’s communist government’s goal, is to replace the U.S. as the world superpower, and they are breaking the law to get there.” Evil lurks in our midst. Will the Chinese succeed? Lets hope not.
Einstein’s Compass A YA Time Traveler Adventure
Doppelganger into Professor Meis
Locking the door, the Countess turned, and her lips curled into a predatory smile. Grabbing the professor by the shoulders of his coat, she steered him along to the bed at the end of the room and pushed him onto it. As the professor struggled to turn over, she pulled off his overcoat and then his jacket.
“Wha… what are you doing?” he slurred.
“Never you mind, Tomas,” she said, roughly turning him over and removing his cravat, then unbuttoning his shirt. The professor tried to resist, but his limbs were like rubber. In minutes, he was naked under the covers the Countess had thrown over his frail body and propped into a sitting position amidst plush down pillows.
Then a sound off to the side of the room drew his attention. The professor blinked uncomprehendingly at the sight of a twelve-foot reptile standing erect and making its way toward him.
The professor’s bewildered gaze whipsawed between the Countess and the creature. “Wha…?”
The Countess laughed as the lizard reached under the blankets, grabbed the professor by the leg and tugged. The professor struggled, but the drug had him dazed and confused still. It would have been futile as no human would have been a match for the powerful reptile. Raka began dragging him across the floor. “Enjoy your… repast, Herr Raka,” the Countess called after the retreating form.
As a metal door at the end of the room closed with a slam, Victoria stepped over to a well-stocked liquor cabinet and poured a splash of fine cognac into a crystal snifter. She inhaled the intoxicating fumes, oblivious to the muffled screams that emerged from behind the metal door. A smile touched her lips. She was a step closer to gaining the Shamir. Raka thought she was his tool. Well, he would learn who was using whom.
The room Raka had designed was a far cry from that of the Countess. He had no use for expensive baubles, but he had agreed to her foolish requests to keep her happy and compliant. His lair was more utilitarian. Its main feature was a metal table with grooves that resembled nothing so much as a trencher board. And with good reason, since its sole purpose was to contain bloody meat—which was precisely what now rested on its surface.
It had taken little time for Raka to consume the professor’s body and blood. The elderly human hadn’t even put up much of a struggle. His terrified screams had been satisfying, adding a special savor to this otherwise rather bland meal.
With the corpse almost entirely consumed, Raka paused. He could sense the transformation beginning; he could feel his claws retracting and his leathery skin gaining suppleness. Shaking his head, he tore back into the now lifeless professor. He would have to hurry to finish this before his lovely, sharp fangs became puny and blunt teeth. He sighed, knowing that getting rid of whatever he didn’t consume would be an odious task. He ate as much as he could to minimize the cleanup. He knew the Countess would never stoop to something like that.
The next morning at dawn, Raka awoke from a deep slumber in the Countess’s living area, his transformation complete. Naked and curled into a fetal position, he straightened and examined his new body, disgusted by the weak limbs and lack of wings. As he stood, he nearly fell, lightheaded from the transformation. He propped himself on a nearby table, then grasped a bench and sat with a thump.
By the hearth, the Countess muttered resentfully, “I did not sign up to be a chambermaid,” as she pointed to the schoolmaster’s clothing that had been drying in front of the fire. When she did not rise to bring them to him, Raka hissed, “Fetch them, Victoria. You know I will not approach open flames!”
Rolling her eyes, she set down her drink and took the garments to the newly human dragon, thrusting them into his arms. “Cover that pathetic body. It’s making me nauseous,” she said with disgust.
Raka took the clothing and pierced Victoria with a withering stare. “Mind your tone, Countess. Despite this form that I am forced to use to accomplish my purpose, I am still your master.” He allowed his anger to transform his right hand into a set of digits with wickedly sharp claws.
Cowed by the reminder of Raka’s power and stung by the rebuke, she winced and said, “Forgive me, Herr Raka. I have let this frail outer form cloud my vision.” She paused, then meekly added, “The previous human whose body you occupied was strong and handsome. I rather… enjoyed… you in it.” Disdain crossed her face as she looked up and down the professor’s form.
“I am no happier with it than you are,” he spat. “But since I may not directly interfere with the boy, I must be able to observe him more closely and watch for openings to take advantage of.” His nostrils flared, and heat flushed throughout his body. As Victoria stepped back in fear, he struggled to regain control of this despicable human emotion. He knew it could take up to two days to settle fully into this form, and any intense mental or emotional shock could turn him back into his reptilian self. With a grimace of exertion, he regulated his breathing and forcefully took control of his racing heartbeat. “We sometimes must sacrifice to accomplish our goals. So, leave me for now. I need to stay quiet. I will meet you tomorrow night.”
“Yes, Herr Raka,” Victoria mumbled, as she rushed out the door.
Raka sat on the armchair and resumed assessing his new body. As a changeling, he appreciated the reptile glands that were still a part of his throat. They increased his body’s adrenaline output and strengthened him than a human would usually be. He spat into his palms and inhaled with pleasure the acrid, viscous reptilian liquid. To a human, the odor would smell enjoy rotting flesh.
The Dragon savored his essence. Victoria might not choose the body he occupied or the modest house he would be living in until he had accomplished his goals, but she would cooperate. He chuckled, reminding himself that he still kept the supreme authority of the dragon. He picked up a silver candlestick from the table and held it in one hand, considering it. I might appear to be the meek Professor Meiss. He thought, but I am far from weak. He quickly crushed the stout silver piece into a twisted mass of metal.
Serendipity Directs My Writing Process
In my writing process, I sit at my computer and compose whatever appears in my mind. When I run out of words, I get up and do chores, wash dishes or walk. In meditation, I send loving thoughts and bless the story. Usually a character or a theme of the narrative will appear to me in pictures. When writing “Einstein’s Compass a YA Time Traveler Adventure”, I was working an episode in the mountains outside of Munich, Germany. Albert and his companion Johann visit a monastery. Using Albert’s supernatural compass, the boys take part in the annual treasure hunt of Mary Magdalene’s Feast Day. Unexpectedly, in my mind, Mary Magdalene appears to me. She wishes to be in the story. The heavenly saint advises me to compose the chapter. After I write the episode I learned in my research, she remained the last thirty years in a cavern in the south of France. My husband and I were traveling on a Mediterranean cruise in a few weeks and would be near her last resting place. I arranged for a guide to take me to the Grotto where Dominican Monks have a sanctuary dedicated to Mary Magdalene. In the sanctuary, I pray to her and seek a blessing. To my right, a golden light appears I hear her voice, “Welcome Sister”.
Einstein’s Compass A YA Time Traveler Adventure
The Miracle
Though they were as eager as the rest of the boys to start their search, instead of rushing off aimlessly, Albert and Johann trotted over to the green lawn next to the monastery’s central walkway and sat down. Albert wanted to approach the hunt rationally. He laid the map on the grass and took out his precious compass.
“What are you going to do with the compass, Albert?” Johann wanted to know.
“I’m not sure, but I felt like it might help us focus on the clues and where we want to go,” he replied as Johann settled himself next to him, watching with interest.
Albert opened the top of the gem-encrusted compass and set it on the map as he considered the layout. The morning rays were reflecting on the device’s face. Looking at the map and then the topography of the surroundings, Albert tried to determine where they needed to go. He pointed to the chart and said, “The first set of coordinates is 47.58 north 11.118 east, but it’s not clear exactly where that is.”
As Albert spoke the coordinates, a beam of violet light suddenly shot out of the compass, extending to a point on the map. Both boys gasped in shock. They could not believe what they saw!
Johann gulped and whispered, “What was that?”
Albert could only stare as the light disappeared. Then he closed his eyes and rubbed his temples as if he was trying to ease an ache. “I have no idea. It’s scientifically not possible.”
Johann regained his wits and grabbed Albert’s arm. “Yeah, but it happened. If it’s scientifically impossible, then it must be magic!”
Albert shook his head as if to clear the thought from his mind. “I can’t say it’s magic…” Then Albert brightened. “But whatever it is, it’s given us a destination. Let’s go!” He scooped up the compass and the map and scrambled to his feet.
Spurred by their desire to win the competition, the two adventurers scampered down from the mountain church into a grove of fir trees. As they walked, Albert’s gaze was drawn to a young woman dressed in a red cloak near the edge of the trees. Her dark eyes radiated pleasant warmth as she beckoned him to follow her. For a moment, Albert’s eyes met hers, and Albert jerked as if he had been jolted by a bolt of electricity. The woman smiled and motioned again.
Albert could only stare for a moment, speechless. Then, gathering his wits, he pointed and said to Johann, “I… I think that woman wants us to follow her!”
“What woman?” replied Johann, looking around.
To Albert, Johann was looking right at the woman. He paused, then said, “Never mind. Just follow me,” as he started off after the woman.
“Uh, right,” Johann agreed, a very puzzled look on his face.
The boys hiked through a meadow of brightly colored flowers and thick wild grasses. Their mysterious guide glided ahead of them, then stopped at a whitewashed picket fence. She pointed to a cluster of white, purple, and red roses inside the enclosure. “She wants us to go in there,” Albert said. His heart seemed to swell as her gaze crossed over him.
Frowning in bewilderment, Johann swung open the garden gate and stepped onto a pathway that led to the center of the rose garden. There was a red flag on a thin pole that reached over the rose bushes. Near the marker was a single gold rose laying on a mahogany bench, the sun’s rays glistening off its metal petals.
Albert approached it, making sure he didn’t disturb it. “Looks like we’ve found our first relic,” he said, handing the map to Johann. “Which of the clues does the gold rose to go with?”
Johann scanned the clues. “Hmm. I’ve been studying the relics of the monastery, so let’s see if my work was worth it.” Moving his finger down the clue list, Johann suddenly stopped. “Here!” he said, poking the paper. The clue read, “The founder’s prize.” Johann nodded to himself. “The gold rose belonged to the founder of the monastery, Duke Albrecht,” he said, writing: “Albrecht’s gold rose in the rose garden” next to the clue.
“Good work, Johann!” Albert said approvingly.
Johann nodded and looked up from the map. “Thanks. But your compass sure played its part. Have you used it for directions before today?”
Albert shook his head. “I don’t need a compass to get around Munich, so there’s been no need. That’s one of the reasons I was looking forward to this trip—to test it out. Uh, and of course, to spend some time with my best friend,” he added with a grin. “This treasure hunt is a fantastic exercise—a real experiment in a controlled environment.” Albert scratched his head. “But I have to say, I was as surprised as you were when I opened the compass and that beam of light shot out of it.”
“So that’s not what usually happens with compasses?” Johann asked, pretty sure he knew the answer.
“Not by a long shot,” Albert responded, his dark eyes sparkling with delight.
“Well, let’s open the map and see if the compass helps with the next clue,” Johann suggested.
“Right,” Albert agreed his curiosity now in high gear. This time, he was ready to observe the phenomenon, if it happened again.
Albert carefully opened the map on the opposite end of the mahogany bench from where the golden rose sat. He laid the compass on it and picked another set of coordinates at random. “How about 47.964 north, 11.202 east.” For a moment, nothing happened, and Albert thought the first instance must have been a fluke. Then, the compass lit up and projected a thin beam of violet light to a point on the map.
“Oh. My. Gosh,” Albert gasped.
Johann shook his head in awe. “How does it do that, Albert?”
“I have no idea! There isn’t a power source, yet the light radiates out when I say the coordinates. That’s…just…not…possible.”
“Yeah, but it happened…again!” Johann tugged on Albert’s arm. “Come on. We’ve got a scavenger hunt to win!”
Carefully closing the compass, Albert let his friend lead him toward where the compass had indicated the next relic would be. As the two adventurers made their way through the countryside, Albert saw the woman in red nearby. She appeared to be waiting for them. Albert closed his eyes and shook his head. He opened them to find her still smiling, inviting them to follow her. As before, Albert felt a tingling all over when the woman in red was nearby. It was hard to describe—a sort of joyfulness that overcame him upon seeing her. “Johann, there’s that woman in red again. She wants us to follow her.”
“Really? Where?” Johann turned left, then right, following Albert’s lead.
“Over there.”
“If you say so.” Johann headed in the direction where Albert was pointing.
“When we get back to the hall, I’m going to ask one of the monks if there’s a woman that looks like her living around here.”
“Good idea,” Johann nodded. “She sure seems to know about the treasure hunt and where the relics are.”
Johann stuck close to Albert as they followed the woman through wheat fields and lush, green grounds. Finally, they came to a pristine, crystal pond. Tall, willowy pine trees and wild blueberry bushes lined the shore on its far side. Johann pointed to a blue flag near one of the trees. “There!”
“I see it,” Albert responded, his heart racing and picking up his pace, not registering that the woman in red was now nowhere to be seen. Next, to the flag, they found a miniature pine decorated like a Christmas tree. Albert scratched his head. “A Christmas tree in July?”
Johann read the clue on the treasure map: “What did St. Nicholas adds to the celebration of Christmas?” Looking at Albert with a smirk, he said, “That’s easy! St. Nicholas started using a tree in the holiday festivities. There are several relics of his in the monastery.”
“Hmm, interesting,” Albert said clapping his partner on the back as Johann wrote the answer: “St. Nicholas’s tree near the pond,’” next to the clue.
“Thanks to the compass and your invisible lady, we’re two for two.” Johann reached for a piece of cake he’d stuffed into the pocket of his lederhosen before they left. He unwrapped it from its cloth napkin and offered his friend a bite “So, what do you say we stop for a minute and rest?”
Albert firmly grasped Johann’s wrist and shook his head. “Not until we’ve spotted all the relics. You can rest,” Albert emphasized, “when we have completed the course and beaten everyone back to the hall.” He placed the map atop a boulder near the sandy shore and carefully set the compass on it. Picking another set of coordinates, he said them aloud.
Nothing happened. Johann and Albert both blinked and stared at the compass. Albert spoke the coordinates again—this time more slowly and clearly. The boys waited. Nothing. The compass did nothing.
“I guess we’ve lost our edge,” Johann shrugged.
“Wait, Johann, the abbot, told us not all the clues were useful. Let’s give the compass another chance.” Albert scanned the map and picked another set of coordinates. “Find 47.968 north, 11.194 east.”
After only the briefest pause, the compass beamed a tiny light to a point on the map. Johann’s face lit up. “You were right! Come on!” Johann yanked Albert’s sleeve. It was all Albert could do to snatch up the compass and map before Johann had him hurrying off in the new direction.
As the boys marched past the tree line, Albert once again saw the woman in red a short distance away. She pointed to a farmhouse down the road, but as Albert and Johann stepped closer, she evaporated into thin air. Albert froze in his tracks, but Johann just kept walking as if nothing had happened. Of course, Albert realized, Johann can’t see our mysterious guide…only I can.
The boys walked down a narrow, dusty road toward the farmhouse. It was a long, red-brick-and-timber-framed house about 15 meters long. Behind the house, several chickens scratched in the yard. A green flag stood next to the chicken coop. As the boys approached the flag, they saw a short, wooden stool. On the seat, in a woven basket trimmed with fresh moss, sat a single red egg.
Albert smiled to see the flag. “Okay, this must be it.” He paused and wrinkled his brow. “But what kind of relic is a red egg?”
Johann smirked. He liked knowing things Albert did not. It was undoubtedly a rare occurrence. “The red egg was a present Mary Magdalene gave Emperor Tiberius. She brought him a white egg to signify the birth of Christ. When he saw the egg, he laughed and said, ‘I will believe it represents the Christ when the egg turns red.’ As Mary Magdalene extended the egg to the emperor,” Johann continued, “it turned red.”
“Really?” said Albert, not quite sure what to make of this story.
“Uh-huh,” Johann nodded, taking the map and writing: “Mary Magdalene’s red egg in farmyard” next to a clue that said, “What convinced Tiberius?”
“Well, I don’t know about the story,” Albert said, “but I’m sure glad your secret studies included the relics of the monastery. I would have had no idea which relic matched what clue.”
Johann blushed at the praise, “Thanks for saying so, Albert. But let’s keep going with the hunt.”
Albert agreed and spread open the map. He placed the compass on it. Johann pointed to one of the coordinates, and Albert read the numbers aloud. Nothing emitted from the compass. Albert repeated the coordinates, and when there was no response again, he quickly learned through the few remaining coordinates. Each time, the compass remained unresponsive.
Johann frowned. “Do you think the compass is broken, Albert?”
“Could be, but I think it’s more likely that we have found all the clues.”
“That sort of makes more sense, I guess,” Johann conceded. “If that’s the case, then let’s head back to the dining hall.”
“Right.” Albert carefully folded the map. “We did this together, and I want us to win.”
Johann smiled. “We did it together.”
* * *