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Wise as Fu*k by Gary Bishop

2025-08-02T14:39:00.002-04:00

2025-03-27T15:41:00.003-04:00

The Psychology of Money in Everyday Life

Money isn’t just numbers in a bank account – it’s woven into our habits, emotions, memories, and even our cultural identity. How we earn, spend, and save money often reflects deeper psychological patterns. In this post, we’ll take a conversational journey through the psychology of money in everyday life, looking at four key areas: our daily money habits, emotional spending, financial trauma, and cultural influences on money. Along the way, we’ll touch on insights from psychology (like behavioral economics and cognitive biases) and highlight ideas from experts such as Morgan Housel, author of The Psychology of Money. By understanding why we relate to money the way we do, we can make more sense of our financial decisions – and maybe even make better ones. Let’s dive in!

Everyday Money Habits and How They Form

Everyone has daily money habits. You might grab a coffee on the way to work every morning or automatically transfer a chunk of your paycheck to a savings account. These routines feel almost automatic – and that’s exactly what a habit is. Habits form when we repeat a behavior in a consistent context and our brains start to go on “auto-pilot.” Research shows that with each repetition of a behavior, small changes accumulate in our brain, gradually forging an association between the situation (say, walking past your favorite café) and the action (buying a latte)

psychologytoday.com

. Over time, the cue and routine become so linked that we do it without much thought. In other words, we train ourselves to expect that latte every morning – it becomes comforting and routine.

But where do our money habits and attitudes start? Interestingly, some patterns emerge very early in life. A University of Michigan study found that children as young as five already show distinct emotional reactions to spending or saving money, and these feelings predict their actual behavior

michiganross.umich.edu

. In that study, some kids were little “spendthrifts” (they felt no pain in handing over money for a toy) while others were “tightwads” (they felt bad about spending and wanted to save)

michiganross.umich.edu

. These tendencies weren’t simply copied from parents – they seemed to arise naturally. This suggests our early temperament and experiences play a big role in shaping how we approach money. A child who gets a thrill from buying candy may grow up into an adult who loves shopping sprees, whereas a kid who hates parting with their piggy bank coins might become a super-saver.

Family environment does leave a mark too. Psychologists talk about “money scripts” – beliefs about money we absorb in childhood that unconsciously drive our adult financial behavior

yourmentalwealthadvisors.com

. For example, if you grew up hearing “we can’t afford that” all the time, you might develop a script of scarcity (always feeling like money is about to run out). Those scripts can turn into ingrained habits: maybe you always hunt for bargains or, conversely, splurge whenever you have cash because you never learned to save. Morgan Housel points out that our personal experiences with money might make up only a tiny fraction of what’s happened in the world economy, but they shape 80% of how we believe the world works

vocal.media

. In other words, if you lived through tough times, you might carry very cautious money habits forward – even if the world around you has changed for the better.

Our brains also have some funny quirks (cognitive biases) that influence everyday money habits. Consider mental accounting – the tendency to treat money differently depending on where it comes from or what we plan to use it for. Rationally, a dollar is a dollar, but humans aren’t always rational. We often put money into “buckets” in our mind. For instance, you might happily spend a $500 tax refund on a new gadget, even while carrying credit card debt, because that refund feels like extra bonus money

ebsco.com

. Or someone might keep a separate “vacation fund” jar at home and contribute to it, yet still swipe their credit card for everyday expenses (paying high interest) – effectively ignoring that all money is interchangeable. This mental accounting habit can lead to quirky decisions, like splurging found money but pinching pennies from your paycheck.

Another common bias is loss aversion – the idea that losing money hurts about twice as much as gaining the same amount feels good

thedecisionlab.com

. This can make us habitually risk-averse: for example, an investor might stick to ultra-safe choices not because it’s objectively the best strategy, but because the fear of a loss looms larger than the potential reward. Or you might cling to an unused subscription just because “I already paid for it” (a sunk cost fallacy, related to loss aversion), even though canceling would save money now.

Everyday money habits are also influenced by how gratifying they are. Generally, spending is fun (it gives an immediate reward) whereas saving is abstract and future-oriented. It’s no wonder many people struggle to save consistently. In the U.S., for example, a survey found nearly 40% of Americans save 5% or less of their income (and 19% save nothing at all)

psychologytoday.com

. One reason is that swiping your card for a new purchase gives you a quick dopamine rush – a feeling of reward – whereas putting that same money into savings doesn’t provide an instant thrill. Psychologically, it’s difficult to sacrifice now for a benefit you’ll enjoy much later. Setting up good habits often means finding ways to make the responsible choice easier or more automatic. For instance, automating a transfer to a savings account each payday can bypass the temptation to spend – you don’t “feel” that money as available, so you’re not deciding anew each time. Behavioral scientists Wendy Wood and Dennis Rünger note that habits grow strongest when a behavior is repeated frequently and consistently

psychologytoday.com

. So even saving a small amount every day (or each week) can, over time, turn into a solid habit that feels as natural as your morning coffee.

Before we move on, it’s worth remembering that our habits, however ingrained, are ultimately driven by what’s going on inside us – our needs and emotions. As we’ll see next, money is deeply emotional. Those daily spending patterns or penny-pinching routines often have an emotional logic behind them. So, let’s explore how our feelings play into financial decisions.

Emotional Spending: The Link Between Emotions and Financial Decisions

Have you ever bought yourself a treat after a rough day to lift your spirits? If so, you’ve experienced retail therapy – using shopping or spending as a way to cope with emotions. Don’t worry, you’re in good company. One global survey covering 23 countries found that nearly 80% of people said they had made a purchase to cheer themselves up in the past month

unitymarketingonline.com

. What’s more, this urge to splurge isn’t just for the wealthy or big spenders – it was universal. In that survey, even among people with lower incomes, a large majority indulged in an occasional “mood boost” purchase

unitymarketingonline.com

. It might be a pint of ice cream, a new pair of shoes, or some gadget you’ve been eyeing – the size doesn’t matter as much as the intent. The act of buying something just for joy or comfort is often enough to give us a little emotional lift.

A little “retail therapy” – treating ourselves to something we want – can indeed brighten our mood. Nearly 80% of people worldwide admit to splurging on purchases to lift their spirits

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. But why does spending money sometimes make us feel better?

Psychologically, shopping can tap into our brain’s reward system. When you shop (especially for things you want, not need), your brain can release “happy hormones” like dopamine and endorphins, the same chemicals associated with other pleasurable activities

health.clevelandclinic.org

. In fact, simply browsing and anticipating a purchase can trigger a dopamine rush – it’s the thrill of the hunt. This is why adding items to your online cart or walking through your favorite store can feel exciting even if you don’t end up buying everything. Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist, explains that the whole process of shopping – from window-shopping to imagining using the product – can give us a surge of those feel-good brain chemicals

health.clevelandclinic.org

. Our brain essentially rewards us because, on some primitive level, it sees acquiring things as beneficial (in evolutionary terms, gathering resources could mean improved survival)

health.clevelandclinic.org

Beyond the chemical buzz, spending can also satisfy emotional needs in the moment. One big factor is the sense of control it provides. When life feels gloomy or when we’re feeling down, it often comes with a sense of powerlessness. A fascinating study in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that sadness is linked to feeling a lack of control – but making shopping choices can restore a feeling of autonomy and control, which in turn reduces sadness

health.clevelandclinic.org

. Think about it: maybe you can’t control a frustrating work situation or a breakup that has you blue, but you can decide to buy that cool new jacket or pick out a fancy cupcake. That little act of decision-making (“I want this, I choose this for myself”) gives a momentary boost in personal agency. As Dr. Albers puts it, when things aren’t going your way, getting exactly what you want (even if it’s a small purchase) can feel like an achievement and brighten your mood

health.clevelandclinic.org

Emotional spending isn’t always about negative emotions, either. We spend to celebrate and reward ourselves, too. Got a promotion? Let’s splurge on a nice dinner. Feeling proud of finishing a tough project? You might feel you “deserve” that new gadget. Our emotions – positive or negative – often nudge us to spend. In fact, consumer psychologists say that spending patterns can be like a Rorschach test for our inner feelings; they reveal emotional needs we might not even be aware of

unitymarketingonline.com

. For instance, someone consistently buying luxury brands might deep down be seeking status or validation (a boost to self-esteem), whereas someone who frequently treats friends to nights out might be fulfilling a need for social connection and belonging.

While emotional spending can provide a genuine mood boost or stress relief, it’s a double-edged sword. The danger is when shopping becomes a primary coping mechanism for emotions. The relief is usually temporary – the bill will come due later, and it might bring new stress. Many of us know the cycle: you feel low, you splurge on something, you get a brief high, but later you might also feel guilt or anxiety about spending too much. If the pattern repeats often, it can lead to financial problems (debt, clutter, or buying things you don’t truly need). Behavioral economics tells us we have a present bias – a tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term consequences. Emotional spending is a classic case: present-you wants to feel better now, while future-you may have to deal with the credit card statement.

That said, occasional retail therapy in moderation can be relatively harmless and even beneficial for your mood

health.clevelandclinic.org

. The key is self-awareness – knowing when you’re buying something because of how you feel, and checking in with yourself: “Am I going to regret this later? Is there another way I could cope right now?” Some people set a rule like waiting 24 hours before making non-essential purchases, which allows the intense emotion to pass and lets you reassess with a cooler head. This can prevent impulse buys driven purely by a fleeting feeling.

Emotions are at the heart of many money decisions, big and small. In fact, even people who consider themselves very rational with money are not immune – worry, excitement, fear, pride, envy, and joy all play roles in financial choices (from buying a house to picking stocks). And sometimes, our emotional relationship with money can be traced back to much deeper experiences, even traumas. In the next section, we’ll explore financial trauma – how extreme money experiences can leave lasting emotional scars that shape our behavior for years to come.

Financial Trauma – What It Is, How It Develops, and Its Long-Term Impact

Not all our money feelings come from everyday ups and downs. Some are rooted in trauma – distressing or life-altering experiences involving money that leave a deep imprint. We often think of trauma in terms of events like accidents or abuse, but trauma can be financial too. Imagine growing up in extreme poverty, or your family going bankrupt and losing your home, or being swindled out of your life savings. These events can be psychologically devastating. In fact, going through a major financial crisis can produce symptoms much like other forms of trauma: anxiety, fear, shame, and a skewed sense of safety or trust when it comes to money.

Financial trauma can start in childhood. Many of our parents tried to shield us from money problems, but kids are perceptive – they notice the stress. Growing up in a financially volatile household, especially one where the family is barely scraping by, can leave a deep mark on a child’s psyche

wral.com

. One person described the experience of childhood poverty vividly: “Every day is an emergency when you’re poor. You’re always like one bad bill away from losing everything.”

wral.com

. That ever-present fear becomes a part of you. Even if that child grows up to earn a good salary, a part of their brain is still bracing for disaster, stuck in that scarcity mindset. As Mars Nevada (who grew up with financial insecurity) reflected, being aware of that kind of existential threat as a kid “messes you up in a way that I don’t know if I’m quite past yet as an adult.”

wral.com

. Children absorb the emotions around money. If they see parents constantly anxious or arguing about bills, they may internalize those fears. Ed Coambs, a therapist and financial advisor, notes that a person’s way of handling money in adulthood can indeed be an emotional response to earlier stressors

wral.com

. For example, someone who watched their parents lose everything might grow up to be extremely conservative with money – never taking even reasonable risks, hoarding every penny. Another person might have seen their family pin their hopes on a big windfall or risky moves, and as an adult they either repeat that pattern or swing to the opposite extreme.

Financial trauma can lead to intense stress and anxiety around money. Someone who has experienced a severe financial crisis may feel overwhelmed by bills or even avoid dealing with finances due to fear. Early experiences of poverty or financial chaos often leave lasting scars that influence how we handle money as adults

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.

Trauma around money isn’t only from childhood. Adults can be hit with financially traumatic events too, and these can have a “long tail” – long-lasting effects that change one’s behavior and mindset

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. Losing a long-held job, going through a costly divorce, being drowned by medical debt, or being the victim of fraud can all trigger financial trauma. One especially painful scenario is financial infidelity or betrayal – for instance, discovering your spouse secretly ran up huge debts or spent your savings on an addiction or an affair. In such cases, there’s a double trauma: the emotional betrayal and the financial hit. Therapist Debra Kaplan explains that this kind of shock can be a one-two punch that shatters your ability to trust

wral.com

. After being blindsided like that, people may become extremely risk-averse and mistrustful with money – essentially traumatized not just by the loss of funds, but by the loss of security in the relationship. Kaplan describes clients who, after such an event, feel like “I can’t trust myself because I believed this person… So they end up not spending because they don’t trust” anyone

wral.com

. It’s as if touching money or making financial decisions reminds them of that betrayal, so they emotionally shut down in that area.

Financial trauma can manifest in various behaviors:

Hyper-vigilance or anxiety: Constantly checking accounts, obsessively worrying about prices, feeling panic at spending even on necessities. Money is viewed through a lens of fear.
Avoidance: On the flip side, some traumatized people avoid dealing with money at all because it’s too painful. They might not open bills or will “tune out” finances, which of course can lead to more problems.
Oversaving or hoarding: An extreme saver might emerge from trauma, where the person finds safety only in accumulating money or possessions and can’t enjoy any of it for fear of losing it. (Think of those who lived through the Great Depression and then refused to spend a dime unnecessarily for the rest of their lives.)
Risk-taking or impulsive spending: It may sound counterintuitive, but some respond to trauma with a “you only live once” attitude – if everything can be lost, might as well enjoy it now. This could lead to rash investments or splurges as a form of denial or coping.

Psychologists and financial planners have started to recognize “financial PTSD” as a real issue. It’s part of why the field of financial therapy has been growing, which blends emotional counseling with financial coaching

wral.com

. The idea is to help people unpack their “money story” – the experiences and beliefs behind their financial behaviors – and heal those wounds so they can manage money in a healthier way

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. For someone suspecting they have financial trauma, working with a professional (therapist or financial counselor) can help reframe those deep-seated beliefs. As one expert, Alex Melkumian, advises: sometimes you need to “delve into your money story and figure out why you behave the way you do” before you can really make practical changes

wral.com

It’s important to show oneself compassion here. If you have intense reactions around money (whether it’s dread at spending or panic when thinking about the future), it might not just be that you’re “bad with money” – it could be that you have unprocessed trauma or ingrained beliefs at play. The good news is, like other forms of trauma, this can be worked through over time. By slowly building positive experiences (small financial wins, regained trust, safety nets) and perhaps getting support, people can rewire some of those knee-jerk reactions.

We’ve talked about how personal experiences – especially tough ones – shape our money psyche. But we’re also influenced by the broader context we live in. Next, let’s zoom out and see how culture – the society and family we grew up in – affects the way we view and use money.

Cultural Influences on How People Perceive and Use Money

Money may be a universal tool, but our attitudes toward it are anything but universal. Culture plays a huge role in how we think about money. The norms, values, and even historical events of the society we grow up in can subtly (or not so subtly) shape our financial behaviors. Consider this: why do people in some countries save far more of their income than others? Why is talking about salary perfectly normal in one culture but taboo in another? These differences often boil down to cultural influences.

A clear example is the contrast between cultures that prioritize frugality versus those that encourage spending. In many East Asian cultures influenced by Confucian values, there is a strong emphasis on saving and avoiding waste. China, for instance, has traditionally had very high household savings rates

obaninternational.com

. One reason, beyond economics, is cultural: virtues like thrift and prudence have been prized for generations. Singapore and South Korea similarly have high savings, and scholars like Heng-fu Zou suggest that Confucian or Taoist influence (which extol frugality and caution) makes people culturally more disposed to save

obaninternational.com

. In these cultures, there may also be informal expectations – for example, adult children might feel responsible to support aging parents (hence they save more), or conspicuous consumption might be seen as irresponsible.

Contrast that with, say, the United States, where the cultural ethos has often celebrated consumerism and the “American dream” of bigger and better. Spending and showing success through material goods can be more socially accepted in some Western cultures, whereas in a country like Japan, ostentatious displays of wealth might be frowned upon. It’s not that Americans are doomed to spend more by genetics – it’s the cultural narrative that differs. Advertising and social norms in the U.S. have long promoted buying and consuming (especially with easy credit), whereas a culture like Germany historically has been more tight-fisted and debt-averse.

Speaking of Germany, here’s a fascinating cultural tidbit: Germans traditionally love using cash and are wary of debt. Before the pandemic, cash was used in Germany for transactions more than twice as often as the European average

obaninternational.com

. Credit cards and personal debt are viewed with a skeptical eye. Why? One big reason is historical memory. Germany went through infamous bouts of hyperinflation in the 1920s (where paper money became worthless) and that trauma lingered in the cultural psyche

obaninternational.com

. “Cash doesn’t stink,” a German saying goes – meaning cash is trusted. There’s a collective memory that too much reliance on banks or inflationary money can wipe you out, so people stick to tangible cash and are cautious about borrowing. Similarly, many who lived through the Great Depression in the U.S. raised their kids with frugal habits and a distrust of banks or stock markets. In these cases, a cultural experience (economic collapse) influenced entire generations’ money behavior.

Different cultures, different money habits. Around the world, attitudes toward saving, spending, and debt vary widely. For example, in Confucian-influenced cultures, frugality and saving are strongly emphasized

obaninternational.com

, while other societies may encourage consumer spending. Even within one country, cultural subgroups can have distinct money attitudes that impact financial behavior
sjes.springeropen.com
. Understanding these influences can shed light on why our personal approach to money might differ from someone in another part of the world.

Cultural norms also dictate what we use money for. In more collectivist cultures (which emphasize family and community), it’s common for money to be pooled or to circulate among extended family. For instance, in many South Asian, African, or Latin American families, supporting relatives (paying for a sibling’s education, helping parents, sponsoring family events) is expected when you have means. Money is seen as a tool for the group’s well-being, not just individual enjoyment. In individualistic cultures, the prevailing idea is that money earned is yours to do with as you personally see fit – people might still help family, but it’s more discretionary. These attitudes shape behavior: someone from a collectivist background might prioritize sending remittances home over personal luxury spending, whereas someone from a more individualistic background might prioritize their own financial independence above all.

Another fascinating influence is how culture affects financial risk-taking and planning. Studies have found that national culture can influence things like willingness to invest in stocks, use of credit, or preference for secure jobs. One study examining 76 countries found that cultural differences in attitudes towards risk and time can lead to different savings and investment behaviors

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. For example, some cultures foster long-term orientation (thinking in decades) while others focus on the present. If you grow up in a long-term-oriented culture (like many in East Asia), saving for the future or for the next generation might feel very natural. In a more present-focused culture, there might be more of a live-in-the-moment spending mentality.

Even within the same country, subcultures have their own money styles. In Switzerland, for instance, researchers identified three main money attitudes – seeing money as status/prestige, seeing it as something to manage carefully, or seeing it as a means to achieve goals – and found that these attitudes differed between the French-speaking and German-speaking regions of Switzerland

sjes.springeropen.com

. The cultural environment (even language and local traditions) led to variations in how people viewed debt and savings. Culturally shaped attitudes were strongly linked with whether people tended to incur debts or not

sjes.springeropen.com

Immigration provides a great natural experiment for cultural influence. When people move to a new country, do they adopt the local financial habits, or keep those from their culture of origin? Research by economists Costa-Font, Giuliano, and Ozcan looked at immigrants in the UK and found that cultural beliefs about saving persisted strongly, even into the second and third generation. Migrants from high-saving cultures continued to save more than those from low-saving cultures, even though they were all living in the same country with the same economic conditions

anderson-review.ucla.edu

. For example, a family from a culture where thrift is emphasized (say, China or India) might carry those habits with them, and their kids and grandkids may also exhibit higher saving rates compared to peers from cultures that encourage spending

anderson-review.ucla.edu

. This shows how deep-rooted cultural norms around money can be – they can survive a change of scenery and last for generations.

Cultural attitudes can also influence what people consider the purpose of money. Is money for security, or enjoyment, or status? In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (the famous pyramid from basic needs to self-actualization), money is closely tied to the lower levels – it helps provide food, shelter, safety. Once those basics are covered, culture might guide what’s next. In some places, having money might equate to gaining esteem (showing achievement), whereas in others, modesty is valued and flaunting wealth is frowned upon. Some cultures might encourage using excess wealth for philanthropic or religious purposes; others might emphasize leaving an inheritance to children. These values shape our financial goals: one person might think “I want enough money to retire comfortably and help my kids get started, that’s success,” while another thinks “I want to build a business empire” or “I want to experience the best things in life now.” Neither is right or wrong – they’re just different scripts handed to us by our environment.

It’s enlightening to recognize our own cultural money lens. You might realize that your attitude toward debt, for instance, isn’t just your quirk – it may have a lot to do with what you observed growing up or the prevailing attitudes in your community. The good part is, we can also learn from other cultures. For instance, Americans could perhaps benefit from adopting some of the saving ethos of other cultures, while some high-saving cultures might learn about enjoying the fruits of one’s labor from more spendy cultures. In an increasingly globalized world, we’re exposed to many different money mindsets, and that can help us choose the best aspects from each.

Conclusion

Money touches almost every aspect of our daily lives, and as we’ve seen, it’s never just about dollars and cents. It’s about our habits – those little routines and ingrained behaviors that we often do without thinking. It’s about our emotions – the bursts of joy, stress, or comfort that spending and saving can bring. It’s about our past experiences, which can empower us or haunt us in our financial present. And it’s about the cultural stories we’re part of, which quietly shape what we believe is normal or desirable to do with money.

The common thread through all of this is that behavior and mindset are central. Morgan Housel emphasizes that handling money well isn’t so much about how smart you are, but how you behave

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. Are you patient? Do you panic in a downturn? Can you resist temptation or get back on track after a mistake? These behavioral and psychological traits determine a lot about financial success. Housel also reminds us of the extreme subjectivity in how we view money – our personal history might be only a tiny slice of what’s happened in the world, but it shapes the bulk of our worldview

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. Simply being aware of that bias – that “I see money through the lens of my own story” – can help us make more objective decisions

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. In other words, understanding the psychology of money arms us with insight to question our impulses and beliefs.

The hope is that by exploring these facets – habits, emotions, trauma, and culture – you’ve gained a clearer picture of why you (and others) handle money the way you do. Perhaps you recognize a habit loop you want to change, or you realize an emotional trigger that leads you to overspend, or you have a newfound appreciation for how Grandma’s frugality was shaped by her times. Money is often painted as a dry, mathematical topic, but in reality it’s deeply human and often quite emotional.

The psychology of money is an ongoing lesson. As Housel’s book illustrates through countless anecdotes, people think about money in wonderfully weird ways, and there’s always more to learn

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. The more we learn, the better we can cultivate healthier money behaviors, make informed choices that align with our true values, and perhaps worry a little less along the way

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. After all, the goal isn’t to obsess over money – it’s to reach a place where money is a positive tool in our lives, providing security, freedom, and even happiness where it can.

Ultimately, by understanding the psychological underpinnings of money in everyday life, we empower ourselves to handle our finances with more self-awareness and grace. Whether that means breaking a bad habit, practicing a bit of mindful spending, seeking help to heal from financial trauma, or simply respecting that our neighbor’s money choices might stem from a culture or experience different from our own – it all contributes to a healthier relationship with money. And a healthier relationship with money can lead to better financial well-being, less stress, and more freedom to focus on what truly matters to us in life.

Sources:

Housel, M. The Psychology of Money. (Insights on behavior over intelligence in finance
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and the influence of personal experience on money worldview
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).
Scott Rick et al. (2018). Study on children’s emotional reactions to money showing early formation of spendthrift/tightwad tendencies
michiganross.umich.edu

michiganross.umich.edu
.
Bankrate Survey (2018) via Psychology Today – Statistics on Americans’ saving habits
psychologytoday.com

psychologytoday.com
.
Wood, W., & Rünger, D. – Psychology of Habit (2016). Explanation of habit formation through context repetition
psychologytoday.com
.
Deloitte “Urge to Splurge” Survey (2023) – 23-country survey on retail therapy (80% use mood-lifting purchases)
unitymarketingonline.com
; commentary by consumer psychologist on spending revealing emotional needs
unitymarketingonline.com
.
Cleveland Clinic (Dr. Susan Albers, 2022) – Explanation of retail therapy benefits: dopamine “happy hormones” and restoring sense of control to ease sadness
health.clevelandclinic.org

health.clevelandclinic.org
.
Sahadi, J. (CNN, 2022) – “How early traumas can affect your relationship with money.” Descriptions of childhood poverty trauma and quotes on lasting impact
wral.com

wral.com
, and expert insights on adult financial trauma and behaviors (Kaplan and Coambs)
wral.com

wral.com
.
Financial Therapy Association – noted as a resource for addressing money-driven emotional issues (blending psychology and financial planning)
wral.com
.
Henchoz et al. (2019) – Swiss Journal of Economics and Statistics: Study on cultural attitudes in Switzerland affecting money behavior (different linguistic regions show different money attitudes and links to indebtedness)
sjes.springeropen.com
.
Costa-Font, Giuliano, & Ozcan (2018) – PLoS ONE: Study finding immigrants retain saving habits from culture of origin (high-saving cultures’ immigrants save more, even generations later)
anderson-review.ucla.edu
.
Oban International (2021) – “How culture affects financial decision-making”: Examples of cultural differences (Confucian frugality in China/Singapore
obaninternational.com
; German cash preference and debt aversion due to historical hyperinflation memory
obaninternational.com
).
Kahneman & Tversky – Behavioral economics concept of loss aversion (losses felt ~2x more strongly than gains)
thedecisionlab.com
.
Thaler, R. – Mental accounting concept (people treat windfalls differently than ordinary income)
ebsco.com
.
Morgan Housel – Emphasizes importance of reasonable behavior over strict rationality in personal finance
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, and the idea that understanding human nature and money can lead to better outcomes in life
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.

2025-03-13T14:27:00.003-04:00

Kopi luwak

Kopi luwak, also known as civet coffee, is a coffee

that consists of partially digested coffee cherries,

which have been eaten and defecated by the Asian

palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus). The

cherries are fermented as they pass through a civet's

intestines, and after being defecated with other fecal

matter, they are collected.[1] Asian palm civets are

increasingly caught in the wild and traded for this

purpose.[2]

Kopi luwak is produced mainly on the Indonesian

islands of Sumatra, Java, Bali, Sulawesi, and in East

Timor. It is also widely gathered in the forest or

produced in farms in the islands of the Philippines,

[3]

where the product is called kape motit in the Cordillera

region, kapé alamíd in Tagalog areas, kapé melô or

kapé musang in Mindanao, and kahawa kubing in the

Sulu Archipelago.

Kopi luwak is also produced in Palawan's Langogan

Valley. The beans from droppings of the Asian palm civet and

Palawan binturong (Arctictis binturong whitei) are collected from

the forest floor and cleaned.[4][5]

Producers of the coffee beans argue that the process may improve

coffee through two mechanisms: selection, where civets choose to

eat only certain cherries; and digestion, where biological or

chemical mechanisms in the animals' digestive tracts alter the

composition of the coffee cherries.

The traditional method of collecting feces from wild Asian palm

civets has given way to an intensive farming method, in which the

palm civets are kept in battery cages and are force-fed the cherries. This method of production has raised

ethical concerns about the treatment of civets and the conditions they are made to live in, which include

isolation, poor diet, small cages, and a high mortality rate.[6][7][8]

Although kopi luwak is a form of processing rather than a variety of coffee, it has been called one of the

most expensive coffees in the world, with retail prices reaching US$100 per kilogram for farmed beans

and US$1,300 per kilogram for wild-collected beans.[9] Another epithet given to it is that it is the "Holy

Grail of coffees."[10]

An Asian palm civet

Defecated luwak coffee

berries in East Java

The origin of kopi luwak is closely connected to the history of coffee production in Indonesia; Dutch

colonialists established coffee plantations in Indonesia and imported beans from Yemen. In the 19th

century, farmers in central Java started to brew and drink coffee from excreted beans collected at their

plantations.[11]

Kopi luwak is brewed from coffee beans that traversed the

gastrointestinal tract of an Asian palm civet, and were thus

subjected to a combination of acidic, enzymatic, and fermentation

treatment. During digestion, digestive enzymes and gastric juices

permeate through the endocarp of coffee cherries and break down

storage proteins, yielding shorter peptides. This alters the

composition of amino acids and impacts the aroma of the coffee.

In the roasting process, the proteins undergo a non-enzymatic

Maillard reaction.

[12] The palm civet is thought to select the most

ripe and flawless coffee cherries. This selection influences the

flavour of the coffee, as does the digestive process. The beans begin to

germinate by malting, which reduces their bitterness.[13] When performed

in nature, or in the wild, these two mechanisms achieve the same goal as

selective picking and the wet or washed process of coffee milling: 1)

harvesting optimally ripe cherries and 2) mechanically and chemically

removing the pulp and skin from the cherry, leaving mainly the seed.[14]

Traditionally, excreted coffee beans were collected directly in plantations

and forests. As the international demand for kopi luwak increased, some

producers turned to caged production methods to increase yields. In 2014,

the annual kopi luwak production was grossly estimated at less than

127 kg (280 lb). It is produced in Indonesia, East Timor, the Philippines,

Thailand, Vietnam and Ethiopia.

[15]

The taste of kopi luwak varies with the type and origin of excreted beans, processing, roasting, aging, and

brewing. The ability of the civet to select its berries, and other aspects of the civet's diet and health, like

stress levels, may also influence the processing and hence taste.[16]

Within the coffee industry, kopi luwak is widely regarded as a gimmick or novelty item. The Specialty

Coffee Association of America (SCAA) states that there is a "general consensus within the industry...it

just tastes bad". A coffee professional compared the same beans with and without the kopi luwak process

using a rigorous coffee cupping evaluation. He concluded: "it was apparent that luwak coffee sold for the

story, not superior quality...Using the SCAA cupping scale, the luwak scored two points below the lowest

History

Production

Taste

A cup of kopi luwak from Gayo,

Takengon, Aceh

Asian palm civet in a cage

of the other three coffees. It would appear that the luwak

processing diminishes good acidity and flavor and adds

smoothness to the body, which is what many people seem to note

as a positive to the coffee.”[17] Professional coffee tasters were

able to distinguish kopi luwak from other coffee samples, but

remarked that it tasted "thin".[18] Some critics claim more

generally that kopi luwak is simply bad coffee, purchased for

novelty rather than taste.[17][19][20] A food writer reviewed kopi

luwak available to American consumers and concluded "It tasted

just like...Folgers. Stale. Lifeless. Petrified dinosaur droppings

steeped in bathtub water. I couldn't finish it."[21]

Several commercial processes attempt to replicate the digestive process of the civets without animal

involvement. Researchers with the University of Florida have been issued with a patent for one such

process.[22][23] Brooklyn-based food startup Afineur has also developed a patented fermentation

technology that reproduces some of the taste aspects of Kopi Luwak while improving coffee bean taste

and nutritional profile.[24][25][26]

Vietnamese companies sell an imitation kopi luwak, made using an enzyme soak which they claim

replicates the civet's digestive process.[27]

Imitation has several motivations. The high price of kopi luwak drives the search for a way to produce

kopi luwak in large quantities. Kopi luwak production involves a great deal of labour, whether farmed or

wild-gathered. The small production quantity and the labor involved in production contribute to the

coffee's high cost.[28]

Imitation may be a response to the decrease in the civet population.[29]

Growing numbers of intensive civet "farms" have been established

and are operated in Southeast Asia, confining tens of thousands of

animals to live in battery cages and be force-fed.[30][31][32] "The

conditions are awful, much like battery chickens", said Chris

Shepherd, deputy regional director of TRAFFIC in Southeast Asia.

"The civets are taken from the wild and have to endure horrific

conditions. They fight to stay together but they are separated and

have to bear a very poor diet in very small cages. There is a high

mortality rate and for some species of civet, there's a real

conservation risk. It is spiraling out of control".[6] The trade in

palm civets for the production of kopi luwak may constitute a

significant threat to wild populations.[2]

Imitation

Animal welfare

A window display in an

upscale coffee shop

showing kopi luwak in forms

of defecated clumps

(bottom), unroasted beans

(left) and roasted beans

(right)

In 2013, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) investigators found wild-caught civets on

farms in Indonesia and the Philippines. They were deprived of exercise, proper diet, and space. Video

footage from the investigation shows abnormal behaviours such as repeated pacing, circling, or biting the

bars of their cages. The animals often lose their fur.

[33] A BBC investigation revealed similar conditions.

Farmers using caged palm civets in north Sumatra confirmed that they supplied kopi luwak beans to

exporters whose produce ends up in Europe and Asia.[8] Tony Wild, the coffee executive responsible for

bringing kopi luwak to the Western world, has stated he no longer supports using kopi luwak due to

animal cruelty and launched a campaign called "Cut the Crap" to halt the use of kopi luwak.[34]

Kopi luwak is one of the most expensive coffees in the world, selling for

between $220 and $1,100 per kilogram ($100 and $500/lb) in 2010. The

price paid to collectors in the Philippines is closer to US$20 per

kilogram.[16] The specialty Vietnamese weasel coffee, which is made by

collecting coffee beans eaten by wild civets, is sold at US$500 per

kilogram.[35] Most customers are Asian, especially those originating from

Japan, China, and South Korea.[36]

Some specialty coffee shops sell cups of brewed kopi luwak for US$35–

80.[37][38][39]

Investigations by PETA and the BBC found fraud to be rife in the kopi

luwak industry, with producers willing to label coffee from caged civets

with a "wild sourced" or similar label.[33][8]

Genuine kopi luwak from wild civets is difficult to purchase in Indonesia

and proving it is not fake is very difficult – there is little enforcement

regarding use of the name "kopi luwak", and there's even a local cheap coffee brand named "Luwak",

which costs under US$3 per kilogram but is occasionally sold online under the guise of real kopi luwak.

Coffee beans can be "seeded" with the same microbes as in civet gut to produce the same coffee flavor

without having to deal with civet excrement.[10]

The binturong is also sometimes kept captive for production of kopi luwak.[40][41]

There are reports of a kopi luwak type process occurring naturally with muntjac and birds. Bat coffee is

another variation that is in demand. Bats feed on the ripest coffee and fruits and spit out the seeds. These

seeds are dried and processed to make coffee with a slight fruity flavor.

[42][43]

Price and availability

Authenticity and fraud

Variations

In the movie The Bucket List, billionaire health care magnate Edward Cole (played by Jack Nicholson)

brings kopi luwak with him on all of his travels, but is unaware of how the drink is produced.[44] Carter

Chambers (Morgan Freeman) explains how civets defecate kopi luwak coffee beans, and that the gastric

juices of the defecated beans give kopi luwak its unique aroma.

The Japanese manga series Beastars features an anthropomorphic civet character named Deshico that

produces kopi luwak

2025-03-08T13:38:00.002-05:00

The rise of the homebody

The rise of the homebody lifestyle is indeed a fascinating cultural shift. Several factors seem to be contributing to this trend. The pandemic played a huge role, as it forced people to rethink how they use their living spaces and led to a greater appreciation for comfort and functionality at home. Advances in technology have also made staying home more appealing—with on-demand streaming, online shopping, and remote work, people can fulfill many of their needs without leaving the house. Additionally, the increasing cost of living and urban congestion might be encouraging folks to seek refuge in their personal spaces rather than spending time out and about.

As for how this might change urban life, the implications could be profound. Cities might see less demand for traditional retail spaces or large-scale office buildings, while neighborhoods with a strong community feel and access to parks might gain popularity. There could be a rise in “15-minute cities,” where everything people need is within a short walk or bike ride. On the flip side, public transportation and nightlife might experience reduced usage, which could shift urban planning priorities.

What’s your take—are you drawn to the homebody lifestyle, or do you see this trend reshaping your own routines?

Should I tell my story? Here is a bit

2023-01-15T14:52:00.001-05:00

I am a person who has faced and continues to face many challenges in my life, but I never let them defeat me. Approximately 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with a metabolic bone disorder, which has caused 11 compression fractures in my spine. This disorder has greatly impacted my life, but I have never let it hold me back. I have always been determined to live a full and meaningful life despite my physical limitations. More recently, I underwent cancer surgery, but my determination and positive attitude remain unchanged.

An interesting fact about me is that in 1993, I was struck by lightning while visiting Disney World. It was definitely not part of the plan but it ended up being a funny story. Despite this event, I have never let it defeat me and it has become one of the many obstacles that I have overcome.

I like to think I am a kind and caring person who always puts others before myself. I have a contagious smile and a positive attitude that inspires those around me. I always tell folks I am "just happy to be here". I am known for my unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity. I am someone who always looks for the silver lining in any situation and that has helped me to maintain a positive attitude throughout my life.

Despite my physical challenges, my passion for life is evident in everything I do. I have a strong interest in reading and enjoy immersing myself in different worlds and perspectives. Reading has been my escape from reality and it has helped me to gain a new perspective on life. It has also given me the opportunity to learn new things and expand my knowledge. I also love spending time with my family and friends and cherish the memories made with them. They have been my rock and have been by my side throughout my journey.

My recent cancer surgery was a setback, but I still continue to fight and overcome my challenges. I am an inspiration to those who know me and my legacy continues to live on through my determination and positive attitude. I have been through a lot, but I have never given up and that is something that I am proud of.

Now, some ten years later, I am reviving my blog as a journey of updates on stories and events. I have many hurdles yet to conquer and I want to share my journey with others, in the hope to inspire them to never give up on their own dreams and aspirations. My blog will be a place where I can share my experiences and where others can relate to my struggles and triumphs.

My blog will be a journey of progress and not perfection. I believe that sharing my journey, will help others to see that despite the obstacles that come our way, it is possible to overcome them.

I hope that my blog will be a source of inspiration and encouragement to those who are going through similar struggles. My journey is not over yet, I still have many hurdles to conquer, but I am determined to never give up.

As with everyone, the pandemic has drastically changed my life. The isolation has been awful for me as for many others. Where we go from here is up to us all...

I guess i will leave it there for now and add more in future posts...cheers

"It's probably me"

2023-01-03T15:51:00.000-05:00

If the night turned cold and the stars looked down

And you hug yourself on the cold cold ground

You wake the morning in a stranger's coat

No one would you see

You ask yourself, who'd watch for me?

My only friend, who could it be?

It's hard to say it, I hate to say it, but it's probably me

When your belly's empty and the hunger's so real

And you're too proud to beg and too dumb to steal

You search the city for your only friend

No one would you see

You ask yourself, who'd watch for me?

A solitary voice to speak out and set me free

I hate to say it, I hate to say it, but it's probably me

You're not the easiest person I ever got to know

And it's hard for us both to let our feelings show

Some would say I should let you go your way

You'll only make me cry

But if there's one guy, just one guy

Who'd lay down his life for you and die

I hate to say it, I hate to say it, but it's probably me

When the world's gone crazy and it makes no sense

And there's only one voice that comes to your defense

The jury's out and your eyes search the room

And one friendly face is all you need to see

Personal Safety devices and you. What to know and what to use. Begin this year by protecting yourself and your loved ones.

2023-01-03T14:44:00.001-05:00

What are personal saftey devices?

Personal safety devices are devices or tools that are designed to help keep people safe in potentially dangerous or hazardous situations. They can be used to protect against physical threats, such as attacks or accidents, or against environmental threats, such as extreme temperatures or natural disasters. Examples of personal safety devices include safety alarms, personal alarms, pepper spray, and self-defense tools such as stun guns or Tasers.

Personal safety devices can be carried on a person's person or kept in a nearby location for easy access in an emergency. Different countries have different laws and regulations regarding the use and possession of personal safety devices. Some countries may ban certain types of personal safety devices, while others may have restrictions on their use or possession.

For example: In the United States, some states have laws regulating the use or possession of certain personal safety devices, such as pepper spray or stun guns. In some cases, these devices may only be legal to use or possess if the user has a valid permit.

In Canada, pepper spray is classified as a restricted weapon and is regulated under the country's firearms laws. Possession of pepper spray is generally only allowed for individuals who have a valid reason for needing it, such as law enforcement officers or individuals working in a high-risk occupation.

In the United Kingdom, possession of a personal safety device such as pepper spray or a stun gun is illegal. It is also illegal to carry any object that could be used as a weapon, such as a baseball bat or a hammer, with the intention of using it to defend oneself.

It is important to be aware of the laws and regulations regarding personal safety devices in your country or location.

With that said,lets take a look at some types...

1. Personal Safety Alarm

There are many different types of personal safety alarms on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some things to consider when choosing a personal safety alarm include:

Type of alarm: Personal safety alarms can take the form of a loud, handheld device that can be activated manually, or they can be integrated into other personal safety devices such as a bracelet or keychain. Some alarms also have a panic button that can be pressed to quickly call for help. Volume: Make sure the personal safety alarm you choose is loud enough to be heard by others in the area. The louder the alarm, the more likely it is to attract attention and help.
Battery life: Consider the battery life of the personal safety alarm you choose. If you plan on using it frequently or in emergency situations, you'll want a device with a long battery life.
Ease of use: Choose a personal safety alarm that is easy to activate and use in an emergency situation. You want something that can be activated quickly and without confusion.
Size and portability: Consider the size and portability of the personal safety alarm. If you plan on carrying it with you at all times, you'll want something that is small and easy to carry.
Price: Determine your budget and look for a personal safety alarm that fits within it.

Considering these suggestions the best suggestion available on Amazon worldwide seems to be the

KOSIN 3 Pack 145DB Personal Security Alarm Keychain.

2. Pepper Spray

There are many different brands and types of pepper spray available on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some things to consider when choosing pepper spray include:

Strength: Pepper spray is rated in terms of its concentration of capsaicin, the active ingredient that causes the burning sensation. Higher concentrations are generally more effective, but they may also be more painful and potentially harmful. Consider the level of protection you need and choose a pepper spray with an appropriate concentration.
Spray pattern: Pepper spray can be dispersed in a number of different patterns, including a stream, a cone, or a mist. Consider the type of spray pattern that will be most effective for your needs.
Size and portability: Consider the size and portability of the pepper spray. If you plan on carrying it with you at all times, you'll want something that is small and easy to carry.
Price: Determine your budget and look for pepper spray that fits within it.
Legal restrictions: Be aware of any legal restrictions on the possession and use of pepper spray in your country or location. In some places, pepper spray may be illegal or may only be legal to use or possess with a valid permit.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the proper use and handling of pepper spray before using it. You may also find that if normal security pepper spray is unavailable in your area a quick search for a spray deterrant directed at an animal may be easier to find. Something like...

3. Self defence tools (physical)

There are many different types of self-defense tools that are portable and can be easily carried with you. Some examples of portable self-defense tools include:

Stun gun: A stun gun is a handheld device that delivers an electrical shock to an attacker, causing temporary paralysis and incapacitation. Stun guns are small and portable, and can be carried in a purse, pocket, or on a keychain.
Tactical pen: A tactical pen is a writing instrument that can also be used as a self-defense tool. It can be used to strike an attacker or to defend against an attack with its pointed end. Tactical pens are small and portable, and can be carried in a purse, pocket, or on a keychain.
Keychain self-defense tools: There are also a number of self-defense tools that can be attached to a keychain, such as kubotans or self-defense keychains. These tools are small and portable, and can be easily carried on a keychain.
Tatical Safety (Police) batons: An expandable baton (also referred to variously as a collapsible baton, telescopic baton, tactical baton, spring cosh, ASP, or extendable) is typically composed of a cylindrical outer shaft containing telescoping inner shafts (typically 2 or 3, depending on the design) that lock into each other when expanded. The shafts are usually made of steel, but lightweight baton models may have their shafts made from other materials such as aluminium alloy.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the proper use and handling of any self-defense tool before using it as well as the legality in your country.

STUN GUNS AND TASERS ARE NOT COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE. PLEASE REFER TO THE LAWS AND PRODUCT AVAILABILITY IN YOUR AREA. 😀

Origins of New year's celebrations!

2022-12-31T13:42:00.004-05:00

New Year's Day, which is celebrated on January 1st, has a long and varied history that stretches back thousands of years. The origins of New Year's Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as the Romans and the Babylonians, who celebrated the start of a new year as a way to mark the passing of time and to honor their gods.

The Romans, for example, celebrated the New Year on March 1st and marked the occasion with sacrifices to Janus, the god of beginnings and endings. The Babylonians, on the other hand, celebrated the New Year in the spring, around the time of the vernal equinox, and marked the occasion with a festival honoring their goddess Ishtar.

Over time, the date of New Year's Day has changed and the celebrations have evolved, but the tradition of marking the start of a new year has remained a constant in many cultures around the world. Today, New Year's Day is celebrated in a variety of ways, including with fireworks, parades, and parties, and is a time for people to reflect on the past year and look forward to the year ahead.

History of Christmas

2022-12-24T15:17:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wondered about Christmas?

Christmas, the holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, has been celebrated for over two thousand years. The exact date of Jesus' birth is not recorded in the Bible, so the celebration of Christmas was not initially tied to any specific date. The early Christians likely celebrated the life and teachings of Jesus, but it was not until much later that the celebration of Christmas became more widespread and became associated with the 25th of December. The origins of Christmas can be traced back to the ancient Roman holiday of Saturnalia, which was a festival in honor of the agricultural god Saturn. During this time, people would engage in gift-giving and feasting, and there were also elements of role-reversal, where slaves were treated as masters and masters were treated as slaves. The celebration of Christmas as we know it today began to take shape in the 4th century, when the Roman Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and made it the official religion of the Roman Empire. Around this time, the church began to celebrate the birth of Jesus on December 25th, probably in an effort to Christianize the pagan festival of Saturnalia. Over time, the celebration of Christmas spread throughout the Western world and became a widely-observed holiday. Today, Christmas is celebrated by Christians and non-Christians alike in many countries around the world, and it is a time for people to come together, exchange gifts, and celebrate the season of love and generosity.

5 major threats to humanity in 2023

2022-12-22T13:34:00.007-05:00

Video generated using PICTORY.AI

There are many potential threats to humanity, and the relative importance of each threat will depend on one's perspective and values. Here are five potential threats that are often cited as being among the greatest facing humanity:

Climate change: The Earth's climate is changing rapidly due to the release of greenhouse gases, largely from human activity. This is leading to more frequent and severe extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods, which can have devastating impacts on human societies and ecosystems.
Nuclear weapons: The existence of nuclear weapons poses a potential threat to the survival of humanity. A full-scale nuclear war could result in the loss of millions of lives and have long-lasting effects on the environment.
Pandemics: The rapid spread of infectious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can have significant impacts on human health and economies.
Bioterrorism: The intentional release of harmful biological agents, such as viruses or bacteria, could have severe consequences for human health and security.
Artificial intelligence: As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, there is concern that it could eventually surpass human intelligence and potentially pose a threat to humanity. It is important for researchers and policymakers to consider the potential risks and ethical implications of AI as it continues to develop.

The Perfect Storm

2006-01-26T21:27:00.000-05:00

In 1991 there was a storm, some called "The Perfect Storm". So intense was this storm that it was even made into a motion picture.

The NOAA people who are responsible for the forecasting of such events defined it as "a collision between a high pressure system, a low pressure system and the remnants from a dying hurricane" that created immense waves averaging 50 feet or higher with great waves as high as 100 feet on occasion. In its wake it devasted fishing off the Nova Scotia coast and cost the lives of several people.

It may sound odd, but I have always likened myself to the Perfect Storm. I am, at heart, a dying hurricane that creates pressure systems around me. It may sound strange but this has been the case a long long time. Since nature made me, as it created that storm, I hold no ill will towards myself, but often have to look back at the devastation I leave in my wake as I pass though. Much as a storm does, only I seem to be extraordinarily good at it and hence become in my mind "The Perfect Storm".

If ever you watch the news after a storm like this passes through, and maybe Hurricane Katrina is a good example, you will find there are people who "feel they have lost everything, feel they have to start again. Those who accept the storm and commit to rebuilding, those who recognize it is a force of nature that is unchangable and accept their present situation with resolve. There are also those who blame the government as though somehow they created the storm or are completely responsible for the aftermath".

A storm is a force of nature. It is neither good nor bad at its core. It is only put on a path that can lead it directly into harms way, or sometimes out into the harmless ocean.

In my case, most of my life is spent in the ocean, blowing around where there are no people. I am content with that, and since nature put me there, I accept that direction. But sometimes, I am turned inward toward land and when I hit it starts as a rain shower, grows to a thunderstorm, then to me. In my wake, I often leave little left to salvage. If I could control nature, I would prefer it sent me into the ocean all the time. But it is unrealistic to think a human being can spend a life isolated from people. Unless that choice is made consciously. I have made such choices in the past, but have hit the great natural resistance any storm would face if it had the ability to change its course or dimensions. It would cease to be itself. Nature returns its stability by turning it back into what it wanted it to be in the first place, a storm. In the case of "The Perfect Storm" in human form everything is exactly the same, only it gives up trying after a while to battle nature to change. Nature then makes it stronger. The results can be acceptable or devasting depending of where and when and who is affected.

I am that Perfect Storm in human condition. I leave destruction in my path most time when I go through, but there are some who accept THAT I am WHAT I am. That aside from a lot of blowing wind and tough structure, I am unchangable and consisitent when conditions are right."

It is fancy way of saying I fail more than I succeed, but being a product of Nature I can only act myself and cannot change who I am. It is also a fancy way of saying that most of my life has been isolated from those who can't see me for who I am or dismiss me outright. But that is Nature, and who am I to argue with things more powerful than I am.

In the End I am unsure where I belong. I no longer have the strength to fight nature and accept whatever direction it points me in.

From Hesiod of Ancient Greece

2006-01-26T21:25:00.000-05:00

Behold, thou mayest choose vice very easily,
even in heaps; for the path is plain, and she dwells very near.

But before excellence the immortal gods have place the sweat and toil;
long and steep is the road that leads to her, and rough it is at first;
but when you reach the height then truly is it easy,
though so hard before.

Thoughts of Closeness

2006-01-26T21:24:00.000-05:00

Thinking does many things to a person. I don't mean academics but thoughts of purpose. Of what we are here for, what we hope for, what we endeavour to have. I struggled a bit with this one, but wrote what I thought how it came with, naturally, a poetic attempt. Its about being close to someone. I haven't a poetic title to give it. It just seems that it is might not be what most people think, when they think at all about what ultimately is important. I hope it makes sense...

True closeness does not originate from decreasing distance.
True closeness does not demand to see and touch one another.
Somebody can be right next to you and yet be not close to you at all.
Just as somebody far away still can be so close to you.
The opposite of loneliness is not togetherness but intimacy.
Real closeness is closeness between two hearts.
Yet real closeness cuts both ways.
At no time you are as vulnerable as you are when loving somebody.
Nobody could betray you the way your best friend could.
Nobody could ever hurt you as much as the people closest to you.

True closeness knows nothing about barriers and armors.
True closeness knows nothing about secrets.
True closeness reveals all weaknesses, exposes all sore points, total access to heart and soul.

In a way defenseless, at the mercy of the people you love.
True friends however recognize and protect your weaknesses.
Their closeness to your heart is the shield to protect you,
Their knowledge about your sore points is the sword to fight for you.
Heart to Heart
Back to Back protecting one another
twice as strong together and being close forever...

This is what I feel everyday. I am not a sentimental person in most aspects of my life. But I am practical. This covers both aspects I think.

Egyptian 20th Dynasty 1205 -1100 B.C.

2006-01-26T21:23:00.000-05:00

Civilizations existed in entire regions of the world long before the birth of Christ, which symbolizes our modern Calendar. I am currently studying the worlds civilization that are of note since time began. Or, at least, when man began recording time. Occasionally there are items of interest, not academic, that grab my attention. In the 20th dynasty of Egyptian civilization when artist poetry began, there was recorded the following which grabbed my attention...

The love of my beloved leaps on the bank of the stream.
A crocodile lies in the shadows;
Yet I go down into the water, and breast the wave.
My courage is high on the stream,
And the water is as land to my feet.
It is her love that makes me strong.
She is a book of spells to me.
When I behold my beloved coming my heart is glad,
My arms are spread apart to embrace her;
My heart rejoices forever...since my beloved came.
When I embrace her I am as one who is in Incense Land,
As one who carries perfumes,
And I am made merry without beer.
Would that I were her Negress slave who is in attendance on her;
So should I behold the hue of all her limbs.

It is intriguing that over 3000 years ago, the thought process of this civilization with war all around, evolving intelligences, that they still found time to express themselves as such.

21 Insights

2006-01-20T21:39:00.000-05:00

21 Lessons to Live I try to live by...

ONE. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills w ill be as important as any other.
THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.
FOUR. When you say, "I love you," mean it.
FIVE. When you say, "I'm sorry," look the person in the eye.
SIX. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.
SEVEN. Believe in love at first sight.
EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
TEN.. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.
ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.
TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.
THIRTEEN. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"
FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
FIFTEEN. Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.
SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and responsibility for all your actions.
EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
TWENTY-ONE. Spend some time alone.

Stem Cell Research

2006-01-19T23:14:00.000-05:00

Stem Cell Research

To begin a discussion of a topic like Stem Cell research one must first look to the past and the accomplishments of man within the concept of the human body and more specifically that involving areas and elements of conception. There are those in our world today who condemn Stem Cell research under the assumption that man is on the verge of playing God as such research is refined.

It is a fact that similar controversy existed during the 1970's when invitro-fertilization was first introduced for infertile couples. At the other end of that spectrum we find the argument, ever continuing in society, regarding Abortion. These two extremes have to be explored as well if we are to speak of Stem Cell research. Specifcially Embryonic Stem Cell research. Why embryonic? Simple answer. There are two types of stem cells, embryonic and adult. It is these distinctions and these topics I wish to speak of as well as the future of medicine and how I believe it is in great perile should any society abandon the study of embryonic stem cell research because of religious or conception based beliefs.

The first fact any individual must acknowledge in Western society, since we embrace the belief that a woman's body is her own and her choice to do with it as she sees fit. This goes to the heart of two aspects of this research. Abortion involves the destruction of an embryo, and is in our society of the west a LEGAL procedure. Embryonic stem cell research requires embryos in order to further its potential.

What is embryonic stem cell research and what does it mean? How does it differ from adult stem cell research? These answers are simple, but to explain we must define the cellualar development of the human body.

Everyday our body creates and destroys cells. A simple example is the thirty day cycle within which the entire epedermis (or skin) of a human being will re-create itself as it abandons cells by creating new ones. This includes the healing of cuts, sunburns, abrasions, and simple everyday replenishment by nutrtional requirements. Our skin is the largest organ of the human body and, as I mentioned, replenishes itself by killing and growing new cells every month. It is fair to say, then, that it is a natural process that the human body will create and destroy cells as it needs to. This is not a man made event, not even a Godly event. It is a biological function of our bodies.

During the process of Abortion, we are eliminating an embryo that is capable of creating a human being. Even without the introduction of sperm for the purpose of creation, a woman's body will monthly destroy an embryo during menstration. This is, again, a biological fuction. Abortion is only introduced in the event that sperm has penetrated this embryo and created the "potential" for creation. Of which, even with such penetration, only a thirty percent chance of actual conception will occur. The destruction of this event during Abortion relieves the woman of that thirty percent possibility. Abortion is considered legal and safe since it has never been agreed upon as to when fertilization of an embryo is actually considered the creation of a human being. However, it is generally accepted that a human being does not come into form until the third trimester of pregnancy. This is why, up to that time Abortion is considered a legal medical procedure. It is also these probilities and time that make human life so sacred.

What if that embryo cited for destruction could be saved and used for medical research? This is question not easy to answer unless I write a book, but it does introduce the idea that if embryo's slated for Abortion were saved, there would be a great deal of material available for research. It might also serve to expand the idea of freedom of choice by adding a "positive" to the end of this current legal medical procedure. Many women wonder later if they made a mistake having had an abortion. Others that might just be relieved to know that they are, at least, doing something to futher medicine. Afterall, currently the embryo is destroyed and discarded after the abortion is complete. What if it could help cure someone of an injury or birth defect? Someday maybe it can. This is only possible with stem cell research.

What is the distinction though and why can we not just use existing adult stem cells? This answer is simple. An adult stem cell has already received instructions during the creation process to become a part of the body. An arm, a leg, a lung, a spinal cord etc.
Embryonic stem cells have not yet received any such instruction. This is why they are the only hope for specific medical treatment. If such cells could be told to become an arm, a leg, a lung or a spinal cord then we might just be able to supplement or create the necessary cells that would cure ( CURE! ) the maladies of so many human beings that we could never count that high. This would be without the use of medications, invasive procedures, or surgery. Simply the planting of cells and the stimulation to have them create, repair, or replace defective cells in all aspects of the human body. Imagine for a moment a person dying of cancer, but having the ability to grow new cells to replace those cells being killed. Maybe a person who is compelled to stay in a wheel chair the rest of their life might rise and walk again. Someone born blind or blinded by diabetes can be made to see again? Maybe diabetes could be illiminated. Maybe Aids. Maybe...maybe...maybe.
Is that not the ultimate purpose of medicine? Or is it playing God as some simple minds would define such research. To me, it would be tradgedy and against the natural wishes or nature and/or God to allow these people to suffer. We complain daily how God allows so much suffering in the world? This might just relieve some of that. People die everyday and we think nothing of it. Maybe, just maybe, we would learn again to treasure life.

During the time when invitro-fertilization was first introduced, many suggested the medical profession was playing God. Yet today, it has allowed people incapable of conceiving a child to do precisely that. To raise a family. It has become a normal, routine part of child birthing options for infertile couples. Is that playing God? By planting sperm in an embryo? Not by today's standards, but in the 1970's it was precisely that. It was a science that succeeded amidst a bombardment of protest.

Today, we can clone just about anything we want. From Dogs, to Goats, even plants. There are those who think we can even clone a human being. Not to mention that during the cloning process we can genetically alter them anyway we choose. New plants with odd shapes and colors. Animals with various skin tones ( like the pig with green feet and nose ). The only unanswered question of cloning is how long a clone might live and in what condition. This will take time to discover, and we will, but presently that answer is not available.

Dolly, the first cloned sheep for example is currently showing signs of arthritis. Given this clones age, it is unusual for a sheep to have arthritis at this time in it's life cycle. What other elements or defects of clones will present themselves, only time will tell. Besides which, it is tough enough to transplant organs that one would consider a clone a medical solution to most of the solutions stem cell research would solve.

But what is a Stem Cell and how does this whole thing work. In her book ...

Human Embryonic Stem Cells: An Introduction to the Science and Therapeutic Potential

Ann Kiesling discusses in detail the concept of Stem Cell research. Its medical and ethical implications and ultimately what it can mean for medicine. To simplify; Stem cells are primal undifferentiated cells which retain the ability to differentiate into other cell types. This ability allows them to act as a repair system for the body, replenishing other cells as long as the organism is alive.

Medical researchers believe stem cell research has the potential to change the face of human disease by being used to repair specific tissues or to grow organs. Yet as government reports point out, "significant technical hurdles remain that will only be overcome through years of intensive research.". This is the crux of what it can do and what such research should allow it to do.

To summarize in ways much better than I can, I would suggest you read the article in Wikipedia.com on Stem Cells. It is a basic introduction to this research and I would encourage anyone, whatever your beliefs, to educate yourself and decide for yourself.

Follow the link and read objectively. There are enough fools in this world, too much believe that although God gave the human mind the ability to come up with concepts like this that we should not use them. If it is man's destiny to replace God, if he truly exists, than as far as I am concerned this was his intention to begin with. As a parent lets a child go, it is time for man to move beyond the supernatural and use nature for our own benefit. Unless you believe that things like Chemotherapy and Wheel Chairs, not to mention pharmaceuticals are natural, then YOU need therapy.

I am sure God would prefer we use the tools nature provided, under scientific discovery to help ourselves. It was enough that we invented atomic weapons, that we should ever be prevented from allowing stem cell reasearch to continue in the right way. Here in the west are the tools, money and expertise that will provide the quickest deployment of the medical use of stem cells. Imagine a world without disease...because it is possible to anyone who has the imagination and the intelligence to understand that we are within the grasp of what may be the intentions of nature and the almighty.

Today in the United States, the country best suited for this research, embryonic stem cell research is not being conducted since only so many cells were made available and they ended up being contaminated. They need help, it is up to the rest of the world to step up to the plate and force this issue. People die, that is a fact of life, but let us at least try to make it as natural a death as possible. For me, disease is an aberration and not something we need deal with. If we can unlock the power of the very universe with our weapons of war, we can illiminate disease and in doing that help many others to get up, see, and benefit.

LET YOUR GOVERNMENT KNOW WHERE YOU STAND ON EMBRYONIC STEM CELL RESEARCH

Here is the link to Wikipedia...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stem_cell