Category: Brian’s Journey

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Learning from the Past: Beyond Proximate Causes

A well-known adage has been echoing since I wrapped up my listening session of Gibbon’s “The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire.” It says, “Those who don’t remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” My introduction to this phrase was through my father, who emphasized the significance of historical knowledge. While there’s undeniable wisdom in these words, they might unintentionally make some believe that merely by acquainting themselves with history, they are shielded from the blunders of bygone eras.

 

As a novice trying to grasp the vast expanse of history, I understand that it arms learners with tools to sidestep pitfalls that earlier generations faced. And it holds the potential to offer such insights. Yet, the challenge lies in the intricate web of choices that constitute most historical missteps. The popular way of teaching and interpreting history tends to spotlight the immediate causes, indirectly suggesting that dodging this final misstep ensures the prevention of the whole catastrophe. However, this is a simplification that might only sometimes hold true.

 

I’m led to believe that many errors take root in several phases before their tangible aftermath. This time gap between the origin and the outcome often makes it challenging to link the cause with its effect, rendering lessons from the past elusive.

 

When I introspect about my misjudgments, I endeavor to trace back to the very origin of the error. Merely stopping at the immediate cause feels like a superficial analysis. Taking the Roman Empire as an instance, it wasn’t an overnight phenomenon. Its foundations required centuries of planning, strategy, and decisions. Conversely, its decline wasn’t the outcome of a singular, catastrophic choice. Just as countless determinations paved the way for its establishment, a multitude of decisions, spanning across centuries, nudged it towards its eventual fall.

 

Understanding the sequence of events and the complex interplay of decisions is crucial to genuinely learning from history. The final misstep is just the tip of the iceberg; the actual bulk lies beneath the surface. By focusing only on the immediate causes, we might become complacent, thinking we’ve learned enough to avert historical repetitions.

 

In essence, the purpose of studying history is to avoid old pitfalls. But to do so effectively, it’s paramount to delve deep into the intricate tapestry of choices leading up to significant events. Remembering the past is the first step. Deciphering its multifaceted lessons is the journey. Let’s not just scratch the surface; let’s mine deep, for in the depths lie the natural treasures of wisdom.

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Rediscovering The Wheel of Time and My Journey with Audiobooks

Growing up, I was deeply fascinated by the universe of science fiction and fantasy. One of the series that profoundly resonated with me during my high school years was Robert Jordan’s “Wheel of Time.” I recall the anticipation, the longing, and the frustration of waiting for each new installment to hit the shelves. As the rigors of University and graduate school consumed me, the lengthy intervals between releasing these books meant I gradually lost touch with the series.

 

Fast forward a decade, and a press release caught my eye – the series was completed by another author, Brandon Sanderson. Having lost track of where I’d left off, I embarked on a nostalgic journey, starting from the first book, devouring the series within weeks. This was my introduction to Sanderson, and his rendition of the series left an indelible mark on me, making his name hard to forget.

 

Then came Amazon’s announcement of adapting the ‘Wheel of Time’ into a show. An urge to revisit the books struck, but several relocations had scattered my collection. Instead, I turned to audiobooks and, to my surprise, found them to be an even more immersive experience. I was hooked. The entire series played countless times in the backdrop of my daily life, even subtly accompanying me as I pen down thoughts like this one. There’s a particular fondness I hold for the books penned by Sanderson. Whether it’s his distinctive writing style or the crescendo, the storyline was approaching. The 12th book always beckons me with unmatched enthusiasm.

 

Coincidentally, years later, Sanderson’s name resurfaced in an unexpected arena – a ‘Magic The Gathering’ video. Intrigued, I delved deeper into his bibliography. I ventured into the “Mistborn” series, followed by the “Stormlight Archives.” Both series were enchanting, and as I journeyed with the characters through their challenges, I drew several life lessons.

 

Among these lessons, one stood out – the significance of persisting, of taking the next step. No matter the distance traversed, the journey is over once it truly is. And the decision to move forward, to tread the next mile, plays a pivotal role in defining us.

 

In essence, my journey with the “Wheel of Time” series and audiobooks has been more than just a literary adventure. It’s been a lesson in rediscovery, persistence, and the simple joy of stories that leave a lasting impact.

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The Seamless Intersection of Learning and Play

In my years mentoring fresh university entrants, I consistently emphasize a crucial point: the world is rife with learning opportunities if only we recognize and embrace them. Strikingly, many individuals develop a somewhat adversarial relationship with the concept of learning. Such a stance can act as a bottleneck to the vast reservoir of knowledge awaiting them.

 

Case in point, my wife holds a perspective that’s worth pondering. In her eyes, any learning endeavor should be riddled with challenges and moments of unease. Consequently, when she indulges in activities that bring joy or relaxation, she labels them as sheer entertainment, pushing aside any educational merits they might hold. Her viewpoint is not isolated; many people fall into the trap of demarcating entertainment and learning into separate realms. In doing so, they overlook the profound intersections where learning can be fun and enlightening.

 

From my vantage point, games serve as a stellar example of tools that straddle the line between fun and education, thereby proving that learning isn’t exclusively reserved for rigorous, structured environments. Games, by their very nature, are playgrounds of application. A good part of our learning trajectory revolves around applying the knowledge we gather. This application is most effective when it’s done purposefully, following an initial exposure to the concerned topic.

 

Take card games, for instance. At first glance, they might seem like mere instruments of leisure. But delve a little deeper, and you’ll uncover a rich tapestry of lessons on probability. Now, it’s essential to note that merely engaging in countless rounds of card games won’t magically equip you with the prowess to solve intricate probability conundrums. However, couple your card-playing experience with a conscious effort to explore the realm of probability, and you might find yourself armed with pertinent questions, real-world examples, and a heightened curiosity. The secret sauce here is introspection. Reflecting upon the game, understanding its underlying mechanics, and drawing parallels to broader concepts can transform a simple card game into a fertile ground for learning.

 

This transformative power isn’t exclusive to card games; it applies to a myriad of experiences. Consider the act of watching a movie. It’s easy to view it as passive entertainment, a means to escape reality momentarily. But, shift gears and engage your cognitive faculties, and suddenly, that movie can metamorphose into a lecture hall, offering insights into storytelling, character development, cultural nuances, and even historical contexts.

 

In essence, every experience – be it playing a game, watching a film, or even taking a leisurely walk – holds the potential to be educational. It’s all about perspective and intent. The onus is on us to shake off predefined notions, look beyond the obvious, and weave learning into the very fabric of our daily lives. When we do, we not only enrich our understanding but also discover the joy of seeing the world as a boundless classroom.

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Title: Embracing Routine and Adaptation in Daily Life

This morning, I finally awoke at my designated time. I might finally be back on my planned sleep schedule. My wife and I also decided to turn on our furnace today. I usually wait until my wife suggests it or complains about the inside temperature since I know my temperature regulation is untrustworthy. I have a doctor’s appointment today, which will result in me skipping my run, but I’ll still be able to get everything else done. I usually schedule doctor’s appointments for Tuesdays or Thursdays to avoid losing a running day. Still, the doctor’s office had to reschedule, and today was the best option. We all just do what we can, and as long as we put in the effort and honestly attempt to do what we should, we should be satisfied.

 

Life often nudges us into routines, whether we embrace them willingly or not. My morning wake-up time has become a symbolic anchor of my daily life. Today, as I finally managed to rouse myself at the appointed hour, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It’s a small victory, but it signifies that I might be back on track with my planned sleep schedule. There’s a comforting rhythm to adhering to a schedule and a rhythm that brings a sense of order to my day.

 

Speaking of order, today marks the day my wife and I decided to switch on our furnace. It’s a simple decision that usually hinges on my wife’s suggestion or her complaints about the indoor temperature. I’ve come to accept that my internal thermostat is unreliable. It’s a part of who I am, a reminder that we all have quirks and imperfections. But in the grand scheme, it’s a minor inconvenience, easily mitigated by a warm, cozy home during the colder months.

 

However, today is about more than just adjusting the thermostat or my sleep schedule. It’s also the day I have a doctor’s appointment. While this appointment necessitates skipping my usual morning run, I remain focused on accomplishing everything on my to-do list. It’s a juggling act, balancing our responsibilities and priorities.

 

I typically schedule my doctor’s appointments for Tuesdays or Thursdays to ensure they don’t disrupt my running routine. Running is not just a form of exercise for me; it’s a vital part of my well-being and mental clarity. But sometimes, life throws a curveball. Today’s appointment was rescheduled, and I had to adapt. It’s a reminder that we can’t always control the timing of every event in our lives. Flexibility and adaptability are qualities we should cultivate to navigate life’s unexpected twists and turns.

 

As I reflect on the day ahead, I’m reminded of a simple truth: we do what we can with our circumstances. Life doesn’t always adhere to our plans, and that’s okay. What matters most is the effort we put in and our honest attempt to do what we should. Satisfaction comes from knowing we’ve given our best, even when things are unplanned.

 

In conclusion, routines and adaptability are two sides of the same coin daily. We find comfort in the familiar routines we establish, like waking up at a designated time or adjusting the thermostat. Yet, life often challenges us with unexpected events, like rescheduled appointments, that require us to adapt. Ultimately, our satisfaction comes from our commitment to making an honest effort, no matter the circumstances. So, here’s to embracing routine while staying open to life’s surprises and challenges.

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Adapting to Life’s Unexpected Twists: Postponing a Friend’s Visit Due to COVID-19

Today was supposed to mark the beginning of my friend’s long-awaited visit, a day we had all been eagerly anticipating. However, life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs, and this time, it came in the form of my wife contracting COVID-19. It’s a situation that none of us could have foreseen, but we’re doing our best to adapt to the circumstances.

 

Thankfully, we discovered my wife’s infection before my friend embarked on his journey to visit us. It was a close call, and it left us with a difficult decision to make. After careful consideration and a heartfelt conversation with my friend, we came to the difficult but necessary conclusion that it would be best to postpone his visit for the time being. It wasn’t an easy choice, as we were all looking forward to spending time together, but safety had to come first.

 

In these trying times, flexibility has become a paramount virtue. The world we live in today is vastly different from what we once knew, and the unpredictability of the ongoing pandemic has taught us that we must be prepared to adapt our plans at a moment’s notice. It’s a lesson in resilience and the understanding that external factors beyond our control can swiftly intervene, altering the course of our lives.

 

While it’s disheartening to cancel my friend’s visit, I find solace that we still have much to be grateful for. My wife’s early diagnosis and isolation are crucial steps in her recovery, and we hope for her well-being. We are also thankful that we notified my friend before he began his journey, sparing him from potential exposure.

 

Moreover, there’s a silver lining even in these challenging circumstances. The prospect of my friend’s visit motivated us to embark on a thorough cleaning spree throughout our home. Neglected corners and dusty shelves received much-needed attention, resulting in a cleaner, more organized living space. It’s a reminder that even when plans don’t unfold as expected, there are still ways to find value and productivity.

 

As we navigate this new normal, we must focus on the positives and the opportunities that arise amidst adversity. My friend and I may not share the same physical space today. However, we can still connect through technology until a safer time for a visit presents itself. Maintaining our connections with loved ones has become more critical in a world that often feels uncertain.

 

In conclusion, today’s turn of events has reminded me of the importance of flexibility and adaptability in our lives. We must be prepared to pivot when necessary, and our ability to do so is a testament to our resilience. While we may be disappointed by the cancellation of my friend’s visit, we remain hopeful for my wife’s recovery and thankful for our precautions. In the end, the bonds we share and the moments we cherish genuinely matter, and those are worth waiting for, no matter the circumstances. So, for now, we’ll savor our tiramisu and look forward to a future when we can all be together once more.

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The Tiramisu Tale: A Sweet Connection Between Two Countries

Hello Wonderful Readers,

 

Today is special. A dear friend of mine is coming over, and to mark the occasion, I’ve decided to whip up a batch of tiramisu. Interestingly, this dessert holds a cherished memory for my wife and me.

 

I made this sweet treat the first time I set foot in Canada to visit and stay with her. That visit was an eye-opener in more ways than one. As we wandered through a local grocery store, I was genuinely surprised at the subtle differences from the American stores I frequented. The most striking distinction was the bilingual packaging, showcasing English and French labels. It gave everything a unique touch, making even mundane shopping trips a cultural experience.

 

But what caught my eye the most was in the bakery aisle — a packet of ladyfingers. Now, ladyfingers weren’t common in the US stores I had been to, so spotting them was a real treat. For those unaware, ladyfingers are an essential component of tiramisu. With newfound excitement, we bought several packages throughout my stay. And you’ve guessed it, each pack transformed into a delicious pan of tiramisu.

 

Over time, this dessert has earned a special place in our hearts. My wife often declares it her favorite and friends and family request it frequently for gatherings and feasts. The creamy layers infused with coffee and the soft bite of the ladyfingers make it a hit every time. I genuinely relish the process of making it and witnessing the joy it brings to those tasting it.

 

Reflecting on this, everyone should have a signature dessert up their sleeve. Something that can be the star of any party or a sweet gesture for a loved one. It doesn’t just satiate taste buds but also helps create lasting memories.

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Breaking Routine for A Grand Adventure

Hello Dear Readers,

 

The atmosphere at my home is buzzing with excitement as tomorrow, Jon, a dear friend of mine, will drop by to spend a few wonderful days with us. And suppose that wasn’t thrilling enough, a week following his visit, my wife and I will embark on a much-anticipated vacation to the magnificent Grand Canyon.

 

As much as my heart leaps at these forthcoming events, they undeniably detract from my usual day-to-day activities. Such breaks, while refreshing, often mean that the regimen we’ve ardently built might face slight interruptions. And in my case, that pertains to my exercise routine and consistent blogging streak.

 

I’ve resolved to trim down my exercise commitments to make room for all the fun, laughter, and memories we’ll create. Instead of my full-blown workout, I’ll likely stick to pushups whenever I can squeeze in a moment amidst our activities. The other elements, like my daily planking sessions, will probably have to take a backseat until our return.

 

For the avid readers and followers of my blog, fret not! Although I might briefly hit the pause button on my regular posts, my creative mind will remain active. I’ve armed myself with a trusty notepad, which I intend to fill with fresh ideas and musings, ensuring a smooth transition back into my blogging rhythm once I’m back.

 

A point of contemplation for me has been the potential loss of my streaks. There’s my planking streak, which I’ve meticulously maintained, and the streak for my language lessons. I hope to continue the latter, as my phone, my loyal companion, will be right by my side. Yet, the unpredictability of vacations can sometimes surprise us.

 

However, here’s the perspective I’ve decided to embrace: While it’s true that I hold a particular pride in these streaks, the experiences, joys, and rejuvenation that this time off promises are unparalleled. So, if my streak counter resets, so be it. I’m ready to dive headfirst into the adventures awaiting us and pick up the pieces with renewed vigor.

 

And I remain unwavering in my determination for those wondering about my fitness goals. Despite the brief hiatus, I’m confident in achieving my annual target: 20 pullups, pullovers, pushups.

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Navigating My New Normal: Embracing Post-Stroke Clumsiness

Hello Dear Readers,

Life has a curious way of teaching us empathy and understanding. It’s often through our own experiences that we gain a deeper insight into others. After experiencing a stroke, one of the challenges I faced was an unexpected decrease in my dexterity, especially in my left hand. This unexpected turn of events forced me to grapple with a new clumsiness, unlike anything I had known before.

 

Before the stroke, I prided myself on my excellent balance and coordination. My hands were always sure and steady, effortlessly performing tasks. However, my left side became noticeably weaker post-stroke, with its response time not as quick as it used to be. This change surprised me, resulting in moments where I’d bump into objects or drop items. One incident that stands out vividly is an ordinary lunch at the hospital cafeteria. While attempting to take a sip from my drink, my left hand faltered, causing the drink to spill. It was a moment that was as puzzling as it was embarrassing.

 

These instances made me confront an unfamiliar reality. There was a pronounced disparity between what I anticipated I could do and what I was actually capable of. The once-taken-for-granted coordination became a daily challenge, requiring me to adjust and relearn. Thankfully, with persistence and rehabilitation, I started to bridge this gap over time. The gap between my anticipated abilities and my post-stroke realities gradually diminished.

 

Before this, I confess that my understanding and patience for those who might have been labeled as “clumsy” or “accident-prone” was limited. It’s not that I lacked compassion, but I lacked the lived experience. Now, with my own experiences of dropping things without apparent reason or unintentionally bumping into objects, I possess a newfound empathy for those facing coordination challenges.

 

In retrospect, it’s apparent that we often base our perceptions and judgments on our personal experiences. It takes a significant event or shift in our lives to broaden our understanding and allow us to see through another’s lens. For me, the aftermath of the stroke, with its challenges and revelations, became a significant event. It taught me the importance of patience, both with myself and others and highlighted the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

 

In embracing my new reality, I’ve learned to navigate through physical challenges and deepened my compassion and understanding for others. We all have our battles, seen or unseen, and it’s crucial to approach every individual with kindness and patience.

 

In closing, my message to all reading this is simple: Let us not wait for a transformative event to teach us empathy. Let’s embrace understanding and compassion as core tenets of our daily lives, making our world a little kinder, one interaction at a time.

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Refining My Measurement Strategy

Hello Dear Readers,

Upon reflecting on my recent self-measurement routine, I’ve concluded that some adjustments are in order. My original blueprint entailed a monthly self-measurement, but upon further inspection, I’ve recognized certain imperfections in that plan.

 

To be specific, there’s always a margin of error in measurements, especially if taken infrequently. Such errors, though minor, can accumulate over time and offer a skewed view. Therefore, the more frequently I collect data, the more accurate my averages will be, as they’ll iron out these tiny inconsistencies.

 

I’ve decided to transition to a weekly measurement schedule with this realization. Not only will this give me a more precise understanding of my progress, but it’ll also spread out the task, making each session less burdensome. However, rather than trying to measure my entire body in one go each week, I’ll distribute the task throughout the week.

 

Here’s the game plan: On every run day, I’ll measure two specific parts of my body. This structured approach ensures I don’t get overwhelmed by the task and can gradually become more adept at the process. As for Saturdays, they’ll be my catch-up days. Should I miss out on any measurements during the week, Saturdays will allow me to make up for it.

 

I believe that this revised approach strikes a harmonious balance. Each measuring session will be shorter, making it more manageable. Moreover, the regularity will enhance accuracy and aid in making the process second nature to me. The more frequently I measure, the more proficient I’ll become, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing comfort with the process.

 

In the grand scheme, it’s always wise to reassess and adjust our strategies as we gather more insights. This updated measurement routine will serve me better, offering more accurate data and a smoother experience.

 

Thank you for joining me on this journey of self-awareness and continuous improvement.

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Relearning to Type After My Stroke

Hello Dear Readers,

Relearning a skill after a life-changing event is physically challenging and emotionally taxing. This has been my reality since experiencing a stroke, which severely affected my ability to type efficiently.

I fondly recall the days when my fingers would effortlessly dance on the keyboard at speeds of up to 200 words per minute. However, I struggle to achieve even a quarter of that pace post-stroke. The reason? My stroke took a toll on my muscle memory and compromised the strength and sensitivity of my left side. These physical limitations and my vivid memories of faster typing days have made the whole experience particularly disheartening.

It’s not merely the slowness but the inaccuracy that accompanies it. Each typo stands as a reminder of the capability I once had and the distance I have yet to cover to regain it. This sense of loss and nostalgia has often tempted me to shy away from the dedicated effort required to reacquire my typing proficiency. Despite these feelings, deep down, I remain hopeful. I believe I can rebuild this skill from scratch with perseverance and consistent effort.

Creating this blog has been a blessing in disguise for my recovery journey. It’s become more than just a platform for me to share my thoughts; it’s my daily typing exercise. I’m determined to challenge myself further by typing with both hands, even if it’s initially slower than just one. The silver lining? While my fingers might have forgotten their dance steps momentarily, my mind hasn’t. I can mentally map the keyboard layout, even if getting my fingers to follow requires deliberate thinking.

 

Day by day, as I write, I can feel the incremental improvements. The small victories, like fewer typos or slightly faster typing speeds, motivate me to persist. Given the time and intention to continue sharing my journey through this blog, I remain optimistic about reclaiming my former typing prowess.

 

I hope my story offers hope for anyone reading this and facing their set of challenges, whether related to a stroke or not. Recovery and relearning might be slow, but with patience and determination, progress is inevitable.