Walkabout Thoughts #74

Thoughts & Stream of Consciousness, rough and ready, from an award-winning filmmaker and author you’ve never heard of, while walking off long Covid, and listening to podcasts…walk day 5/12/2024 Mother's Day

Weather for the day… starting out, 59° nice sunny day starting out About 69° when I got home.

Podcast Prosecuting Donald Trump, ep. It's Not About Sex

I felt pretty horrible yesterday when I was walking. I went on the antivirals for long Covid for three days starting yesterday, a pill every 12 hours. I am already feeling better.

Quote for the day: "Any Great Stupid is still dangerous until it stops moving."

I have asked Copilot AI to summarize in a couple of paragraphs of what Al Capone would have been like as POTUS. Then compare and contrast that to the Donald Trump 45 administration. "POTUS" Al Capone vs FPOTUS Donald Trump

I’m so sick of hearing about Donald Trump. It makes me even more nauseous that we give so much attention to the narcissist (any narcissist) who so lives for the attention. For a grown man with his own version of Oppositional defiant disorder. For a national leader who claims victimhood as a form of being macho. Who lies constantly. And when he tells the truth, generally speaking, he’s just telling us what he’s going do or will make a joke of it once it's ralized what he's doing. And then? He does it anyway. He projects onto others his own crimes and current actions. I find this so vile. We see the GOP doing this of late, also. How can one not find this vile? And who would see such a person (or party) as having the material or character ever to be a national leader(s)?

The podcast now is talking about Stormy Daniels sometimes having to wanted to make money off of her story, sometimes not. And how that may appear to the jury as inconsistent or suspect. Maybe a jury of our peers should only be psychologists? I alwyas thought a "jury of your peers" was kind of nonsense anyway. What IF they did get that, peers of the defendent who really understand that person and their job and orientation? I wonder if there'd be more, or fewer guilty judgements?

We have in general very perverse belief about memory, recall, eyewitness accounts, etc. I’ve pushed forward on projects myself that I stopped and then went forward on after a while (referring to Stormy, wanting to sell her story, then not, etc.), all because of at one time, feeling strong enough to have the audacity to think it was a worthy project but at another time feeling weaker because of something that happened. I’ve been able to take a breath for a few days, collecting my wits and then moving forward again. So I don't see how that isn’t reasonable for what happened with Stormy Daniels. She's a person after all. Not to mention she had been threatened. Donald Trump is a scary little punk much fo the time with a bunch of money and more power than his money should portend. Then as POTUS we foolishly gave Donald Trump a shield against his criminal behaviors and one that is ongoing and ridiculous. I would argue anti-democratic, and has proven to be anti-American-citizen and anti-America.

Are “American citizens" actually American citizens if they are seditious and insurrectionist? Certainly treasonous would indicate no. So at what point are they not actual citizens? People are trying to claim that Palestinians are all Hamas and therefore the enemies of Israel. So are MAGA America’s enemies? Are they not?

It seems yet again binary thinking is the enemy of America. So, a porn star, now porn director cannot be surprised when that she walks out of a bathroom in a hotel room, after being invited to a dinner, that wasn’t gonna happen, and upon arriving meets Donald Trump in silk pajamas. Tells him to get dressed (because they were going to dinner, right?), certainly in her mind. He HAD said, or his Representative had told her that. So he gets dressed at her request, implying he’s playing along with the act that they’re going to have dinner. Then they never have dinner. Instead she gets cajolled into having sex.Thing is, had you asked her upon arrival, "want to have sex with Donald Trump, this old guy (remember at this time she's 27)?" I suspect she'd have said no. So how could she not have been fully cognizant and aware that what happened was going to happen? Please. Perhaps because she was a woman? Because you want to believe the best about others and for yourself? And to stereotypically presume otherwise, is just more toxic binary thinking in hindsight. About a stiuation we weren't ever in and Stormy was, and it’s just the worse form possible for us, for others? And why are we referring to her as Stormy Daniels, her stage name? She is Stephanie Gregory Clifford. As someone pointed out, Nikki Glaser maybe, we don't refer to an actor in court by his stage name in his latest film.

America’s problem, especially with Trump, seems to be a kind of flip-flopping in binary thinking in order to rationalize the best situation possible, in order to offer an ex-POTUS (and career criminal) so we can then be surprised in a kind of, “Casablanca style" retort as by Captain Renault, "I’m shocked to hear there’s gambling going on in this establishment.“ Please.

I decided to add into my previous Mother’s Day "walkabout thought" blog the Rosemary‘s baby meme, and the comments I posted elsewhere about my own oldest son. Maybe also the post I did today on Facebook about my and my siblings problematic relationship with our mother.

Did I add the Instagram post I made yesterday. No. But I just did.

I watched the entire first season of “Action “on Peacock streaming. I do hate the commercials every so often. But as I posted around social media the other day, if you’re regularly on a film set and there’s any action involved whatsoever, or you’re just a fan of action films, you really wanna watch this series. References go back to the first Matrix movie and the first "John Wick" and the guys who worked on those and then built their own company. Which where they’re now working on and they focus on in the series, like “Violent Night “and the one in theaters, “The Fall Guy“film, a version of the old 80s TV series with Lee Majors, the previous star of the $6 Million Man show, not to be confused with The Man Show.

End of mile one

Regarding long Covid lately, it’s been a rough 2024 so far. I’ll be 69 end of August and so far not enjoying the last few years at all. I expected old age to be much more entertaining and enjoyable. I’ve always had my health, so what the fuck happened? I blame Covid for this and my three infections from it. Even though I’ve gotten all the shots and boosters. Three weeks after I caught the last bout this year VA health came out and said "get your booster." Thanks guys. Great timing!

I’ve also had this weird thing going on for a couple of months on my right hand, ring finger, largest knuckle. Actually it's the proximal phalege. I don’t know, second phalange first phalange, I can never figure it out. But I woke up one morning to close my hand and that finger locked at that knuckle as I closed my hand. And it’s been catching like that. I figured it has to do with a lack of exercise. So I bought a gel exercise ball to fit my hand. Couple inches in diameter. Every day I’ve tried to do 10 squeezes with each hand and then nine, down to one. Tried to do that a few times a day. I don’t know, seems to be helping? I’ve got arthritis so it may have something to do with that. I’ve been eating 9 gin raisins every morning for a few years now. When I stop eating those, I feel the arthritis pain in my body, worse. I’ve seen some really old women in the news piecers replying to the question of "what do you credit your longevity to" and they said "Gin raisins". I don’t know, but can’t hurt.

Why does Stormy Daniel say that she’s not a "me too!" victim with Donald Trump? Because she’s a strong, intelligent woman. And yes, even those are susceptible to a guy conning them into a bad situation, or even sex. This has inevitably happened to millions of women throughout the history of humanity. Let’s turn this around. If this was Donald Trump rather than Stormy he would be screaming. "I’m a victim. I’m a victim. Me too! Me too!", to the high heaven. Don’t think that’s not true. 100%! And he would especially be claiming that if it was a lie because he’d be getting some kind of salacious deliciousness out of his fetish of lying to the public or anyone. Damn, this guy...

In Trump’s criminal court trial his defense attorney a shameless woman who said to Stormy in the witness box that she’s a strong woman when at 27 years old when all this happened and she should’ve been able to deal with it appropriately. Stormy‘s reply? “I’m a stronger woman now." Why? Because our worst experiences should inform our future selves.

I don’t usually eat sugar. Stopped that years ago, decades ago? I use agave. I’ll eat a little sugar as a treat once in a while. But I read in a study last year that it's a long Covid symptom, or certain aspects of it, that evokes a craving for sweets. I have to admit this past month or two, way too many sweets. No need to be putting on weight, even a few pounds. Dinner has been a cup of yogurt, lately, so I’ve been maintaining. But I seem to feel better and finally getting more exercise, so this feeling is diminishing. I’m really pushing myself to get in more exercise now that I’m feeling better and the weather is better. My lungs are still not fully healed from the last Covid infection though. Getting there, I suppose but it takes forever. I thought they would be better healed by now.

I know the court has to run how it runs, but claiming anything is abusive toward Trump in his court trial, this side of jumping over the witness stand and blowing his brains out, I would argue at this piont might be considered fair game. Now that’s not the case legally. Just morally and ethically, considering his utter disrespect he gave to our office of the president, to American citizens, to our US Constitution and our liberal democratic republic, so Trump pretty much deserves anything that happens to him in negative repurcussions he's earned. I do prefer to do this through the courts, but we're suffering fools here. I suspect we need some new laws for the next more enhanced version of a Donald Trump, career criminals made POTUS. Or we're fucked.

Little nugget of information… "Wicked Pictures" is one of the only adult film companies that require use of a condom onset. We know this because a FPOTUS is on criminal trial for election fraud and that's Stormy Daniel's company she has worked for. Why do you need to know anything more than that? 

Trump in his own words said a candidate in this situation shouldn’t be allowed to run. He said that in 2016.

End of mile two.

Damn. I just realized. My last podcast was on comedy and social issues and this one is on politics again. Sigh…

Here’s a thing about this Trump criminal trial. Had he not broken the law that requires this trial and information about Stormy Daniels, after the Access Hollywood recording came out, he would not have ended becoming POTUS. Director of the FBI Comey, pulling his bullshit about protecting the FBI over, protecting a national candidate in Hillary Clinton for POTUS, is another matter. I suspect we’re seeing that kind of crap with AG Garland. These people need to stop protecting their institutions and start protecting the US Constitution and the American citizen. YES, protect the FBI and the DOJ but when it's between them and citizens...CITIZENS! Between America and MAGA? Fucking AMERICA!

If God really existed, his (best) fake (worst) acolyte Donald Trump would immediately have a really bad stroke. So there that is I guess...

Donald Trump always negotiates his bills. Regardless that he OWES that money, he often gets reductions. Or he doesn’t even pay! I was once ONE week late, owed $7 on my home electric bill and the local small electric company put a lien against our house! The day I found out I paid it off. HAD they just called me I would’ve driven in and paid it off. It took some effort to get the lien off the house after that. So stop treating Donald Trump like a fragile glass object. He’s a career criminal. He ONCE was POTUS, AND? Deal with it!

Trump‘s accountant Allen Weisselberg prefers to sit in jail than testify against his former and current boss. As with Trump, who has plenty of money to pay penalties, you need to hit these people at a level they understand to feel the pain. While we would feel the pain as normal citizens, they won’t. Try giving Weisselberg 20 years in prison and see if he talks. Or  confiscate everything he owns and make it so that he can receive no further funds from Trump or anyone associated with him. Perhaps do what Trump does, and go after his family.

Yes, we don’t do that kind of thing because were the US government and we have a Constitution, and protections for our citizens (not that Trump cares if he can abuse us for his own good) and democracy, which Trump is trying to kill and that MAGA wants to kill and that the GOP is working to kill. But there has to be work arounds and we have to learn ASAP how this shit needs to be done... yesterday, not a year or 10 from now, as our jurisprudence tends to go sometimes.

Must be feeling better I’m getting rather long-winded and these blogs are getting longer. That’s a good sign. For me anyway.

Here’s an idea about Judge Cannon with the Mar y Lago documents trial for Donald Trump… Request of whomever you would request this of, that she not be replaced, so much as another judge is put into place for this, one who has a docket better capable of handling this, who is willing ready and able to act, before the election... because the American people have a right to due process and a speedy trial. Donald Trump and Judge Cannon do not have a right to delay tactics to avoid that situation. Or maybe they do.

While Judge Cannon's scheduling order is on her purview and requirements, I would say there’s an overarching requirement of the American people, who own the courts who are responsible to US, to get this trial done before further damages are done to the Constitution and the country.

I know the standards are high for replacing a judge on a trial, but we’re in new territory and the government has got to get its shit together and they've got to do it ASAP, or this country is going down. I don’t see things like MAGA who thinks they have to take guns to take over the government. It’s not how America is. That's how criminals work. And you may have noticed that MAGA are the ones who attacked Congress...

And so I’ll leave you with wishing you all the greatest success and health! 

Until next time! Sigh...

Cheers! Sláinte!

AI Evaluation - "POTUS" Al Capone vs FPOTUS45 Donald Trump

I asked Copilot AI to answer some questions on this:

You

summarize in a couple of paragraphs what al Capone would have been like as POTUS.

Copilot

Imagining Al Capone as the President of the United States (POTUS) presents a fascinating alternate history. Known for his notoriety as a Prohibition-era gangster, Capone’s leadership style would have been unconventional and possibly tumultuous. As POTUS, Capone might have brought the same ruthlessness and cunning that he applied to his criminal empire to the political arena. His administration could have been marked by a strong emphasis on loyalty and an iron-fisted approach to governance.

Capone’s presidency would likely have been characterized by a blend of charm and intimidation, a tactic he mastered as a mob boss. He was known for his ability to maintain control through a combination of fear and favor, which could translate into a form of political patronage where loyalty is rewarded and dissent is not tolerated. His experience in running illegal operations might have led to a government that operates with a level of secrecy and a disregard for the rule of law, prioritizing personal gain and power over public service.

On the other hand, Capone was also known for his charitable contributions, often seen as a “modern-day Robin Hood” by the public1. This aspect of his personality might have translated into populist policies aimed at helping the less fortunate, albeit likely funded through unorthodox means. His administration could have been a mix of public works and social programs, coupled with a heavy-handed approach to law enforcement and an emphasis on national security.

However, the responsibilities of a POTUS are vast and complex, including appointing high-ranking officials, serving as commander in chief of the military, making treaties, and signing or vetoing legislation2. It’s uncertain how Capone, with his limited formal education and background in organized crime, would have navigated the intricacies of domestic and foreign policy, or how he would have dealt with Congress and the judiciary. His tenure could have been marked by scandal and controversy, or perhaps, in a strange twist of fate, he might have reformed to become a leader who sought legitimacy and respectability through the power of the presidency. Regardless, Al Capone as POTUS would have been a presidency unlike any other, potentially altering the course of American history in unpredictable ways.

You

compare and contrast that to the Donald Trump POTUS45 administration

Copilot

This is a complex topic. Consider checking information with Bing Search.

Comparing Al Capone as a hypothetical President to the actual presidency of Donald Trump reveals both contrasts and similarities, particularly in their unconventional approaches to leadership.

Leadership Style: Al Capone, had he been President, might have ruled with an iron fist, valuing loyalty above all else. His background in organized crime suggests he would have brought a certain ruthlessness to the office. In contrast, Donald Trump, while also valuing loyalty, was known for his frequent use of social media to communicate directly with the public and his tendency to make abrupt policy decisions1. Trump’s leadership was marked by a high turnover rate within his administration and a series of executive orders that bypassed traditional legislative processes1.

Public Perception: Capone was seen by some as a “modern-day Robin Hood” due to his charitable acts, despite his criminal activities2. Trump, on the other hand, had a polarizing effect on the public. His supporters praised his business acumen and “America First” policies, while his critics pointed to his controversial statements and policies, particularly regarding immigration and foreign affairs1.

Policy and Governance: Capone’s hypothetical presidency might have focused on populist policies, possibly funded through unorthodox means, reflecting his charitable side. Trump’s administration focused on deregulation, tax cuts, and a hardline stance on immigration. He sought to repeal the Affordable Care Act, implemented a controversial family separation policy at the border, and engaged in trade wars through the enactment of tariffs1.

Legal and Ethical Controversies: Both figures are associated with legal controversies. Capone was famously convicted for tax evasion, and his presidency would likely have been fraught with scandal. Trump’s presidency was similarly marked by investigations, including the Russia probe and two impeachments, and he was the first president without prior public office or military experience13.

Foreign Policy: Capone’s lack of experience in politics suggests that his foreign policy would have been unpredictable. Trump’s “America First” foreign policy was characterized by unilateral actions and strained relationships with traditional allies. He recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and brokered normalization agreements between Israel and various Arab states1.

In summary, while both Capone and Trump would have brought their unique backgrounds to the presidency, their administrations would have differed significantly in style, policy, and perhaps the level of controversy. Capone’s hypothetical presidency suggests a direct and possibly heavy-handed approach, while Trump’s actual presidency was marked by a mix of business-like efficiency, media savvy, and contentious politics.

Me
which of the two would be preferable as POTUS?

Copilot

As an AI, I don’t have personal opinions. The preference for a President is subjective and varies greatly among individuals, depending on their values, beliefs, and expectations for leadership. Some may prioritize strong law enforcement and business acumen, while others may value political experience and adherence to traditional governance.

Al Capone, as a hypothetical President, would bring a background in organized crime and might have applied a business-like approach to running the country, potentially prioritizing personal loyalty and possibly engaging in unconventional methods.

On the other hand, Donald Trump, as the 45th President, brought his experience as a businessman and reality TV personality to the office, with a focus on “America First” policies and a unique communication style.

Voters might consider various factors such as leadership style, policy priorities, effectiveness, and ethical considerations when determining their preference. Ultimately, the choice of who would be preferable as POTUS would depend on the individual voter’s perspective on what qualities they believe are most important for the role. It’s a decision that each person must make based on their own analysis and criteria.

ME

It should be noted that Al Capone was in advanced stages of syphilso and died  died in prison of a heart attack.

Donald Trump is currently on trial for criminal election fraud. It is yet to be adjudicated if he will eventually die in prison. Regardless how obvious and reasonable that is.

Happy Mother's Day 2024

Happy Mother's Day, 2024!

Our mom has been gone for a few years now. She's definitely in...what she would say is, "a far better place". Incredible mom the first part of my life. A very odd character the last half. 

Or maybe I just didn't notice it so much as a kid.

Mom's are our wives who mother our children, and...more.

They have to put up with a lot...

When my 1st born was yet to be born, I did a Tarot card reading for my pregnant wife and I which came out saying that he would be a "he" (which was correct), and a "demon" (which was also correct). "Demon" in the sense of a child that never ran out of energy, while his parents did, feeling far older than they were. 

You had to follow him, everywhere. "Out of sight, out of mind"? That was insanity. For us, and his safety. But just a good time for him. So I did wnat I could to enhance that for him, and for his safety. 

He was much as I had been as a child, apparently. My mother, over visiting one day pointed that out to me saying that it was like watching a little me running around. About the level of energy he and I had, she added: "If I put you down for sleep at 5AM, you'd be back up at 6AM!"

My comment back to her was, "Well, I just want to thank you for not killing me as a child. Because now I understand what I must have put you through." Honestly, I think I was the worse of the two of us.

My wife and I were often exhausted... but he was an amazing, happy, fun bundle of mostly never ending energy & happiness. 

I could talk here about my youngest too, but this isn't about kids per se, and they were both pretty pleasant to raise, so... what I will say is that I apprecaited my youngest having a more quiet demeanor and greater ease of handling. Still, both were a joy to raise, honestly. Though both were still "kids". So, there it is.

As for my siblings and my mom, there were a lot of issues with her over our lifetime together. And apart.

But the mom I remember best is the one whom I dearly loved...this version in the photos strip, above. 

The adventures we had with her as kids...through many different homes and schools, in different states, even different husbands and in different countries. 

That is the mom I prefer to remember.

Many of us have experineced such problematic things with our mothers. Some simply cut them off. Interpersonally, mentally, emotionally. I did myself from time to time. As did my siblings. They and I had a round robin over the years of who would take the lead to deal with her. 

Between having some form of mental issues and her self-medication, life was seldom ever simple or relaxed around her. I used to say within 15 minutes of being in her presence, she would start in on us. It would then take a day (or days) to try to recover from. Not a massive issue, but it wore on you time and time and time again.

Anyway, try not to do that to  yourself. IF you can find it in yourself, for yourself, to enjoy the once beloved "Mom" side of your mom whom you wish to remember. 

Remember, HER.

Just remember THAT person. Feel free to love that version you most perfer to remember. 

Especially if that was your first version of your mom that you knew. 

Because they were the "mom" who formed you. So? Love...HER.

And Love Your Self.

Happy Mother's Day. To us all.

Cheers! Sláinte!

Frank Zappa & the Mothers Of Invention

Walkabout Thoughts #73

Thoughts & Stream of Consciousness, rough and ready, from an award-winning filmmaker and author you’ve never heard of, while walking off long Covid, and listening to podcasts…walk day was yesterday 5/11/2024

Happy Mother's Day! My mom's has been gone for a few years now. She's definitely in, what she would say is a far better place. Incredible mom the first part of my life. A very odd character he last half. Maybe I just didn't notice it as much as a kid. More later, below...

Weather for the day… starting out, 65° nice sunny day 79° when I got home.

Podcast Marc Maron's WTF? Episode 1537 - Joe Mande

My Instagram post for the day from this walk.

Good podcast by two Jewish commedians.

I'ms till fighting something here. Covid. Long Covid? I don't know. Lungs are still not 100% after covid recently. I'm wondering if the Paxlovid, which killed my near 3 years of long covid now, stopped it. I'm expected it to return within 6 weeks as a study showed happens, last year. But maybe it's starting to come back already? Just not sure. I would love to feel better though.

"Guns are easier to get in this country than compassion." Nikki Glaser 

Yup. Especially from some conservative groups more than others.

First up I'd just like to say...

JD Vance's MAGA Republican view this morning on SOTU, between Israel & Palestinians seems to be if this were our own current American insanity, we should be bombing the hell out of MAGA voters, then target himself, Trump & GOP Leadership for MAGA voters having makd their indipidly dumb decision to support seditionists & insurrectionists they have and a career criminal Trump as leader and worst POTUS in US History.

Don't get me wrong, I hear him. There is a logic to it. But it seems a bit extreme. Wait...MAGA? Extreme? Hamas? Yes, that IS kind of a MAGA level conflation between a Middle Eastern murderous group and an Amerian-style, evangelical, Christian Nationalist, insurrectionist/seditous, wannabe murderous group, but still...

Being the most hated in Congress is easy to do but be in the most beloved or even just “beloved“ is much harder to still follow your outlier or singular agenda, but be welcomed when people see you coming. That is not Ted Cruz. That is not Marjorie Taylor Greene. That is not JD Vance.

I had a very weird very realistic dream the other night. I was in the passenger side of my wife’s 1990 Ford Ranger truck. That would be my ex-wife. The other day I realized I had gotten divorced in the early 80s. Then I got divorced in the early 90s. And then I got divorced in the early 2000s It’s now been over 20 years that I haven’t gotten a divorce! My oldest son said, when I told him that, "Congratulations on kicking the addiction!" I said, "I’m not sure you can call wanting to have a life partner an addiction."

Anyway, in the dream we were driving along and talking as she drove. I generally say I’ve been married 3.5 times because the one I didn’t marry, we were together long enough for a common law marriage in some states, albeit not in Washington state. Suddenly up ahead of the truck in the dream, we see a dead deer as a headlights hit it. Time slows down. I flashback on a memory of videos where vehicles hit things in the road and fly up in the air, spinning. We look at one another. She tries to react, but it’s too late. We run over the deer. The truck flies into the air, spins and all I can see is inside the cab of the truck. I can’t see outside, only the inside around us. Not us, just the inside of the cab like my face is too close to the interior.. And then we land and... we’re OK. We stare at each other for a moment and then I realize who this is. It's' not that ex wife whose truck it was, but my college girlfriend. Miss 3.5. My most recent ex-wife‘s truck, being driven by my one time I seemed to avoid getting maried. And then I wake up. Weird. 

On the podcast they're talking about a four night gig Joe Mande had in Phoenix. I lived there for a bit in the mid 70s. Loved it there. Loved the desert. But way too many conservatives. A fact exemplified by recent insanity in the 2020 election, still ongoing for some weird reason. Which brings up a thought...

Here’s the thing about guns and the 2nd amendment. It sounds cool, maybe, that everyone can have a gun in practice. Yet it’s fucking insane. I’ll give you one reason to support that: We used to have to have a reason to own a military type armament, or to a be allowed a carry permit. But allowing everyone to have whatever they want is a complete lack of respect for firearms. We really need to get back to that respect for killing tools. Guns have been turned into a kind of toy. They're not toys. 

Joe detailed to Marc on the podcast about his time in Phoenix when he was surprised on stage by how badly his jokes were landing and how he was riling the audience to the point they were threatening him on stage As he put it, at one point he just asked the audience if they could at least wait until he got to the punch line for them to heckle him. But no, apparently. No self control. No self control from the people, some of whom were no doubt carrying firearms. I know here in Washington state it's illegal to carry in a bar. Because I don't know...alcohol? He said he was a little nervous walking out of the club into the parking lot. No one, no American should have to fell that, just because of...words.

Very enjoyable podcast overall with some interesting commentary who just who the hell we have turned into. Apparently there are a lot of liberals (and Jews, as Marc pointed out) in that area. But for those nights Joe said, none of his fans in the audience were going to speak up to those who once voted to elect a crimional like Joe Arpaio as Sheriff. 

So, I got up to 1 mile today and was ready to be done. But I pushed to walk a 2nd mile and that's it for the day. Better than nothing but looking forward to back up to 5 miles again. Usually I feel better after a walk. I wish that were true today.

When my 1st born Nik, was yet to be born, I did a Tarot card reading which came out he would be a "he" (it was right) & a "demon" (which was right). Yes, we were often exhausted... But he was an amazing, happy, fun bundle of never ending energy & happiness.

And with that... I wish you all great success and health! 

Until next time!

Cheers! Sláinte!

Walkabout Thoughts #72

 Well, first day of a walkabout since catching covid the 3rd time. Got in 2 miles. Nice day, about 63 degrees, felt great. But I'm beat after a month of nothing except the store and doctors appointments.

Instagram video for the day.

Podcast Marc Maron WTF? with Episode 1535 - Tiffany Haddish

I have very little to say, just wanted to mention I got in a walk today.

I haven't been able to do any work of substance since end of last year really. Hoping soon. I was working on putting "Gumdrop", a short horror, up on Filmhub, but maybe not. They found too many problems for me to fix and I'm not sure I care. Kelly Hughes offered two other places to try, I may do that. 

Cheers! Wishing you all...all the best.

Sláinte!

Kicking Around What God Knows With Copilot

I asked Bing AI Copilot today:

You

definition of omniscient?


Copilot

The term “omniscient” is an adjective that describes a state of having complete or unlimited knowledge, awareness, or understanding12. It’s often used to refer to an entity that perceives all things2. The word “omniscient” combines two Latin roots: “omni-”, meaning “all” or “universally,” and “scire,” meaning "to know"1. This term is frequently used in religious and philosophical contexts to describe a deity or higher power that has unlimited knowledge. For example, in many monotheistic religions, God is often described as being omniscient1.

You

so if god can manipulate space/time does that mean he fully comprehends how it works and why?

Copilot

In many religious and philosophical traditions, a deity or higher power, such as God, is often described as being omniscient, meaning they have complete and unlimited knowledge of all things. This would presumably include a full understanding of concepts such as space and time.

However, it’s important to note that these are deeply philosophical and theological questions, and interpretations can vary widely depending on one’s personal beliefs, religious tradition, and philosophical outlook. Some may argue that a deity’s understanding of space and time transcends human comprehension, while others may hold different views.

In the end, the interpretation of such concepts is often a personal and subjective matter. It’s a fascinating topic and has been the subject of much debate among theologians, philosophers, and scientists throughout history. It’s always interesting to explore these ideas and consider different perspectives. 😊

You

is that in the bible?

Copilot



Explore

Yes, the concept of God’s omniscience is indeed mentioned in the Bible. Here are a few verses that highlight this:Psalm 147:5: "Great is our Lord and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite."1
1 John 3:20: "In whatever our heart condemns us; for God is greater than our heart and knows all things."1
Psalm 139:4: "Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, You know it all."1
Matthew 10:30: "But the very hairs of your head are all numbered."1
Hebrews 4:13: "And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do."1

These verses, among others, suggest that God is all-knowing, or omniscient, according to the Bible. However, interpretations can vary, and it’s always a good idea to read and study these passages in their full context. 😊

You

what is the "I am" quote

Copilot




The “I am” quote is a significant phrase in the Bible and is linked to the divine name of God1. Here are some notable instances:Exodus 3:14: God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” And he said, "Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I am has sent me to you.’"2
John 8:58: Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am."2
John 14:6: Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."2
Revelation 1:8: “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."2
John 11:25: Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live."2

These are just a few examples. The phrase “I am” is used in many other contexts throughout the Bible, often to emphasize God’s nature and attributes. As always, it’s a good idea to read these verses in their full context for a deeper understanding. 😊

You

if god knows you will turn left, but someone pops in from another dimension and slaps you and you turn right, would god have known you'd turn right?

Copilot

This is a fascinating question that delves into the realms of theology, philosophy, and even theoretical physics. The concept you’re referring to is often discussed in terms of God’s omniscience (all-knowing nature) and the nature of free will.

In many religious and philosophical traditions, God’s omniscience is understood to mean that God knows all things: past, present, and future. This would presumably include all possible outcomes of all possible events. So, in the scenario you described, if we follow this line of thinking, God would know both the possibility of you turning left and the possibility of you turning right, even if the latter is influenced by an external force from another dimension.

However, interpretations can vary widely depending on one’s personal beliefs, religious tradition, and philosophical outlook. Some may argue that God’s knowledge is beyond human comprehension and not bound by our linear understanding of time or the constraints of our physical universe.

It’s important to note that these are deeply complex and personal questions, and there’s a wide range of beliefs and theories about them. They’ve been the subject of much debate among theologians, philosophers, and scientists throughout history. 😊

You

yes but does god know the potential of what is to come or what actually will transpire outside of his view looking forward to what could and likely would be?


Copilot

This question touches on the concept of divine foreknowledge and predestination, which are complex and often debated topics in theology and philosophy.

In many religious traditions, God is considered to be omniscient, meaning that He has perfect knowledge of all things, including the future. This would suggest that God knows not only all potential outcomes but also what will actually happen.

However, this raises questions about free will. If God already knows what will happen, do we truly have the freedom to choose our actions? Different religious and philosophical traditions have different answers to this question.

Some propose that God exists outside of time and therefore perceives all of time simultaneously. This means that God’s knowledge of the future wouldn’t necessarily cause or determine future events, preserving free will.

Others suggest that God’s foreknowledge is compatible with free will because knowing what will happen doesn’t mean causing it to happen. In other words, God knows what we will choose to do, but we still make the choice freely.

These are just a few of the many perspectives on this topic. It’s a deep and complex issue with many nuances, and interpretations can vary widely. It’s always a good idea to explore these ideas and consider different perspectives. 😊

You

I ask this because the quotes you gave me all appear to be humans making and sharin observations of God. God speaking directly in the old testament is his describing himself but not in ways that actually explain my query.

Copilot

I understand your point. The nature of divine knowledge and its relationship to human free will is a complex and deeply philosophical topic. The Bible, as well as other religious texts, often present these concepts in a way that is open to interpretation and discussion.

In the Old Testament, God does indeed describe Himself, most notably in Exodus 3:14 when He says to Moses, “I am who I am.” This statement has been interpreted in many ways, but it often is understood to mean that God is self-existent, eternal, and beyond human comprehension.

As for your specific query about whether God knows the potential of what is to come or what actually will transpire, the Bible doesn’t provide a direct answer. Many theologians and philosophers have debated this question over the centuries, and there are a variety of interpretations.

Some believe that God, being omniscient, knows every possible outcome and what will actually happen. Others propose that God’s knowledge is more like an understanding of all possible outcomes, without knowing which one will occur. This view allows for human free will and unpredictability.

Ultimately, these questions touch on mysteries that are at the heart of many religious and philosophical traditions. They invite us to reflect on the nature of knowledge, the future, free will, and the divine. It’s a fascinating topic to explore! 😊

You

If god is an entity of higher dimensions can he know what might interfere in our lower dimension if what affects us should come from a higher dimension he either isn't a party of or does not at the time populate?

Copilot

This is a very intriguing question that delves into the realms of theology, philosophy, and theoretical physics. The idea of God as a higher-dimensional entity is a concept that has been explored in various forms of speculative fiction and theoretical physics, but it’s not a concept that is explicitly addressed in traditional religious texts.

In many religious traditions, God is considered to be omniscient (all-knowing), omnipotent (all-powerful), and omnipresent (present everywhere), which could imply the ability to perceive and interact with all dimensions, even those beyond human comprehension.

However, your question seems to propose a scenario where there are dimensions even beyond God’s reach or perception. This is a fascinating concept, but it’s not one that is commonly discussed in mainstream theology or philosophy. It’s more akin to speculative fiction or certain interpretations of string theory and other advanced physics concepts.

It’s important to note that these are deeply complex and personal questions, and there’s a wide range of beliefs and theories about them. They’ve been the subject of much debate among theologians, philosophers, and scientists throughout history.

Walkabout Thoughts #71.6 covid & not walking to the clinic...

Yesterday I had to go to urgent care for post covid. I thought I had a sinus infection post covid and Paxlovid. Three hours I'll never get back. But chest xray was good, it's just post covid healing period now. Uncomfortable, no fun, but dealing with it.

While I was waiting I listened to Marc's podcast with one of my favorite actors, Malcolm McDowell. 

Episode 1530 - Malcolm McDowell  WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

If you like Malcolm you have to hear this one. Asked how he got the show he's on now, Son of a Critch, based in Newfoundland, he said someone saw him in a show, "Truth Seekers" and they got ahold of him. I've been watching this show from the beginning and apparently it is the biggest comedy show CBC has in Canada now.

There is also a ""Caligula recut coming out in August. I saw that film when I worked at Tower Video and it came out on VHS & Beta. I had to rent (from us) a Beta machine to watch it back then. No one I knew had a home video machine. I was staying at my parent's house. This was after the USAF and college as I was transitioning back into the workforce. 

A friend of mine and I brought it over and we started watching the film, then realized how bizarre it was. Not knowing that the famous actors in it had thought they were in a real drama, but it was produced by Bob Guccione of Penthouse. We hit one of those scenes in the film and stopped the film and decided we had to go buy some weed before finishing this film. 

So we headed out, leaving the machine attached to my parent's living room TV. We returned in about an hour, walking in and seeing my mon sitting on the couch and the film running. I panicked. My very Catholic mom was watching THAT film? I looked at my friend and we both grinned.. Mom seemed mesmerized, as if she didn't even notice us come in.

She saw the looks on our faces, looked at the TV, hit pause, and they panic swept her face. She got very upset and stood up and started complaining about how filthy the film was. We tried to explain but she hurried upstairs to her bedroom where she spent most of her time, reading or watching tv, or whatever.

My friend and I were both stunned. We sat down looking at the paused scene, a rather racy one and felt horrible. We talked about it and then my friend said, "But...she was watching it." I said, "But how much?" I picked up the control and hit reverse. We had to back up quite a ways to get to where we had stopped the film and realized she had watched quite a bit and many questionable scenes.

At that point we (quietly) broke up with laughter. Stoned as we already were, we continued to film to completion, quite shocked by the end that those actors were even in it. Malcolm McDowell...well, maybe. But Helen Mirren? John Gieldud? How?

This was maybe 1984 or so. It wasn't until this podcast I found out how. Malcom told Marc they had been hired to do that film and he knew the director. When he questioned the money behind the film he was told it was the Penthouse publisher but the director had said, "Who cares?" 

It wasn't until the film was completed, their roles all finished and "in the can" that Guccione added the pornographic scenes, unbeknownst to the actors. Actors who had signed a contract and could do nothing about it. Although, Gore Vidal, who had written the (in Malcom's words, horrible) screenplay, had them take his name off the film. Malcom said he had a screenwriter help him rewrite it and it wasn't a bad film, except for the Guccione editing where for instance, 40 minutes of Helen Mirren's acting had been removed and porno replacing it, leaving her only 15 minutes of screen time.

Apparently more recently some guy had purchased a storage unit and found a complete print of the entire film and has re-edited it and in August of 2024 a new version is coming out which is the original film and according to McDowell, a very good film now. I'm looking forward to seeing it.

Regarding "A Clockwork Orange" Malcom has some interesting stories about Kubrick. He said at some point Kubrick had asked him what he wanted to wear in the film as they were walking out to Malcom's car at Kubrick's place. Which surprised him. He asked, "What do I want to wear?" Kubrick said, "Yes. What do you have?" And they looked in his car where his cricket gear was. And so Malcolm ended up wearing some of that as his costume in the film. 

About his "Singing in the Rain" dance in the film, that was apparently ad-libbed during their designing the scene and Kubrick liked it so much, he immediately purchased the rights to using the song in the film. Something Gene Kelly was not happy about it after the film's release.

Marc asked Malcolm if he ever thought about doing a "Son of a Critch" TV show reprise Alex from "A Clockwork Orange" as the grandpa version on the show. Malcolm loved the idea and said he was going to pitch it and that they just had to do it. That, would be awesome.

They discussed the film "McCabe & Mrs. Miller" which Marc recently hosted a showing of at a theater. I need to re-watch that film.

Malcom's favorite movie: "Fargo"

I switched at some point the the Pod Save America podcast ep: The People vs Donald Trump 

So let me get this straight... Trump is calling his own criminal trial the "Biden trial" because what? Biden was president when Trump committed HIS crimes when HE was president? What? Unbelievable this guy...

And with that... I wish you all great success and health! Until next time!

Cheers! Sláinte!